Top 5: Christmas Traditions

 As it gets closer to Christmas I was reflecting on some of the traditions we have as a family.  Most, if not all, of these are ones that we have started with our own kids.  This year we did something a bit different and all agreed that it needs to be added to our annual traditions.  What are some traditions you have at your house?  Are these passed down from your childhood or new traditions begun with your own kids? 

1) Christmas Eve Service - I love the Christmas Eve service.  Our church does a candlelight service and it's always such a cozy, beautiful time of singing and rejoicing in the birth of Jesus.  

 

2) Reading the Advent Story Book - We have an Advent Storybook that we read every year.  It follows Little Bear as he journeys to Bethlehem.  Each day is a simple story of something he encounters along the way and each reading ends with a moral lesson or truth about God. You can read more here about this book and the advent calendar I made to accompany the book.

3) Baking Treats - As mentioned in my last post we love to bake at Christmas.  The kids look forward to having their favorite treats.  For many years I made Gingerbread pancakes for Christmas breakfast using This recipe from a Gooseberry Patch book.  More recently I have switched to making overnight cinnamon rolls for Christmas breakfast.  It is much more convenient as I can just pull them out in the morning and bake them while the kids open their stockings. You can find the recipe for the Overnight cinnamon Rolls in this previous blog post

4) Drawing names for gifts - We are very fortunate in that our kids are pretty content kiddos.  They rarely ask for things that they don't need and they have a hard time coming up with any sort of list at Christmas.  As we had more kids, and as they got older, it became very clear that they didn't need or want a lot.  So, we decided to start drawing names within our family.  This is probably one of their favorite traditions.  They look forward to seeing whose name they get and finding the perfect gift for them.  It's so fun to watch because often they know more of what their sibling would want than I have picked up on.  The kids get a stocking and one gift from mom & dad and then they get the gift from the person who drew their name.  In recent years we have expanded this tradition to the cousins also.  The focus shifts from "my list" to the excitement of finding the perfect gift for their sibling and cousin.  

5) Christmas Pajamas - This tradition is the one we tweaked this year and will be continuing with the new way!  So, for many years I bought the kids all matching pajamas.  Again, as we had more kids and they got older this became harder and harder with the large range of sizes (and I refuse to pay $50/pair for the specialty family sets).  For a few years we did themes, so one year it was character "footy" pajamas,  we did Among Us shirts from the game, and last year we did Disney Side-kick character shirts with black pants.  This year we couldn't decide on a theme so one of the kids suggested we draw names for pajamas too.  This drawing is separate from the gift name draw.  Again, they had SO much fun choosing pajamas for each other.  Last night we did the Great Pajama Reveal where everyone gave the pajamas they chose to their person.  It was really fun and one of the kids remarked on how it was like getting an early Christmas present.  I'm currently washing all the new pajamas and they will be worn Christmas Eve as normal. 

Top 5: Christmas (or anytime!) Cookies

 

Along with the movies and music of the season; Christmas also means baking yummy treats!  Over the years we have gotten into the habit of making certain types of cookies at this time of year.  Some are older recipes and others are ones that we found more recently.  So, without further ado...here are our top 5 cookie recipes.

1) Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

No fancy recipe, just the classic Toll House cookie recipe.  The only change I make is that I only use 1/2 tsp salt. 

Chocolate Chip

2) Ms. Jamison's Gingersnaps:

A favorite memory from childhood is visiting an elderly woman from church.  We were always so excited when we walked into her house and saw a tray piled high with wafer thin gingersnap cookies. Ms. Jamison passed away several years ago but we are fortunate to have her delicious recipe.

Ms. Jamison's Gingersnaps

1 cup flour

1/3 cup molasses

1 tsp ginger

3 TB Shortening

1/8 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Mix all ingredients thoroughly.  Spread very thinly on ungreased cookie sheet.  Cook until set, about 8-10 minutes.  While still warm, cut into 3 inch squares.  Carefully place on rack to cool. 

3) Spicy Ginger Cookies

Another ginger cookie, but these include some additional spices, including cayenne pepper!

Spicy Ginger Cookies

 2 1/2 cups flour

1 1/2 tsp baking soda

3/4 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp ginger

1/2 tsp ground cloves

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

8 TB (1 stick) butter, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup molasses 

1/4 cup egg whites

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Combine flour, baking soda and spices.  Set aside.  In bowl of stand mixer cream butter and sugars together.  Add the molasses to the creamed butter, then add the egg whites until combined.  Slowly add the dry ingredients. Once all dry ingredients are incorporated, roll dough into 1 inch balls and place onto baking tray.  Bake 8-10 minutes.  Transfer to cooling rack.  Makes approximately 3 dozen.

4) Brown Butter Chewy Ginger Oatmeal Cookies

Yes, I know...another ginger cookie recipe.  First, the spices in these cookies just scream warmth and Christmas but also, they are so different from the other two.  The nuttiness from browning the butter and the addition of Oats make for a wonderful chewy and tasty cookie.  I have to say, these are probably my favorite cookie.  This recipe is from the ambitious kitchen website and can be found here:

Brown Butter Chewy Ginger Oatmeal Cookies

5) Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Don't let the word vegan scare you off from trying these cookies.  They are absolutely delicious and a must in our house at Christmas.  My kids ask every year when are we going to make them.  The use of candy canes is a great addition.  The only change I make to this recipe is that I use pureed canned pears instead of the applesauce as we have a child with an apple allergy.   

Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies 

 I hope you enjoy these cookie recipes!  What are some must-make cookie (or other) recipes in your house for Christmas?  

Top 5 (hours): Christmas Music

If you've read this blog much at all you've probably figured out that I love music.  To me, there is something beautiful about expressing feelings and experiences through music.  So, this Christmas season I thought it would be fun to share a Spotify Christmas Playlist with you.  I love Spotify as there are so many playlists that you can always find some new music!

This Christmas playlist is a bit over 5 hours long and while it has many of the classics from Nat King Cole and Bing Crosby, there are also many newer songs of the season.  

So, my gift to you this year...my top 5 (hours) of Christmas music!

 

Spotify Christmas Playlist

Top 5: Christmas Movies

 🎶 Christmas two weeks away 🎶

Hard to believe that in just two weeks it will be Christmas day!  I had a plan to blog each day of December; maybe sharing a favorite song or recipe each day.  Needless to say that didn't happen.  The start of December has brought busyness and also sickness.  The dreaded flu that has been hitting so many households hit ours this past week.  I'm thankful to say that we all seem to be mostly back to normal but it has pushed out many Christmas preparations.  We finally got our tree yesterday, although, it's still not decorated, and today I made a first batch of cookies.  

One Christmas tradition we have been able to enjoy despite being sick, has been watching Christmas movies together.  So, I thought I'd start my December posts with a list of my top 5 favorite Christmas movies.  These aren't in any particular order but are definitely "must watch" movies each year.

 1) Joyeux Noel: Based on the 1914 Christmas Eve truce.  While this movie takes some creative liberties (and would be better without the female opera character) it's still a favorite.  To read the true story behind this movie check out this Smithsonian Magazine article.

 

2) White Christmas: What can I say, Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney & Vera-Ellen.  It's just a cozy classic that always reminds me of curling up on my Gram's couch at Christmas to watch it with her. 

 

3) A Charlie Brown Christmas: Another lovely classic!  So much can distract us from what really matters.  The simplicity of Linus reciting Scripture and sharing the true meaning of Christmas refocuses everyone to Jesus.

 

4) Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas:  The original Beauty and the Beast movie is one of my favorites.  This Christmas movie is fun and has some new songs; I love the lyric "as long as there's Christmas I truly believe that Hope is the greatest of the gifts we receive."  While this movie doesn't specifically mention Jesus the focus on Hope in dark and desperate times is always timely.   

 

5) The Nativity Story: Last but certainly not least is this 2006 version of the Nativity Story.  So many movies based on Biblical accounts have the characters being stiff or a caricature of real people.  I love the casting in this movie and just the authenticity of how they tell the account of Jesus birth.  

 

So, those are my "top 5" Christmas movies.  Do you have any must watch movies for the Christmas season?  Drop a comment and share!

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping Study (verses 27-28)

 Before we dive into the last couple verses; I want to take a minute. I hope this study has been a blessing to you.  Whether you use this verse mapping technique or some other Bible Study tool/process I pray that you will know the importance of daily studying God's Word.  Stand on the Truth of His Word and stay close to Him!  

If you enjoyed this study (or didn't), would love to see more of this type of post or have any comments or suggestions please leave a comment.  I would love to hear your thoughts.  Now let's dive in...

"For behold, those who are far from you shall perish; 

you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you.

But for me it is good to be near God;

I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works"

Psalm 73:27-28

 

DESIGN:

"For behold, those who are far from You will perish; You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful and have abandoned You.  But as for me, it is good for me to draw near to God; I have made the Lord God my refuge and placed my trust in Him, that I may tell of all Your works." (AMP)

 

"For, behold, those who are far from You will perish; You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful to You.  But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all Your works." (NASB)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 27: 

racheq - removing, departing (here = those departing from thee)

 

zanah - to commit fornication, be a harlot

 

Verse 28:

qirbah - an approach (here = approach to God) draw near

machaseh - refuge, shelter, trust (here = God as the refuge of His people)

FIND:

Psalm 119:155 - "Salvation is far from the wicked for they do not seek your statutes."

James 4:4 - "You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?  Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God."

Psalm 65:4 - "Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, the holiness of your temple!"

Psalm 118:17 - "I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the LORD."

MANKIND:

- Those without God will perish

- The best place man can be is near God

GOD:

- God will punish sin and destroy those who worship other gods/idols (unfaithful to Him)

- God is a refuge to His people.

ASK/APPLICATION:

When people choose to live apart from God and serve idols; God says they will perish.  This is not God's desire but rather man's choice. God desires everyone to repent (2 Peter 3:9); however, God is Holy and must punish sin.  As Romans 6:23 reminds us "the wages of sin is death".  The good news is that that isn't the end as the verse continues "but the gift of God is eternal life."  When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior and we repent of our sins God becomes a refuge.  He is our shelter Who we can trust.  God is always near to guard and guide His people.  James 4:8 expresses this truth "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you"  I pray that today you would make the choice to draw near to God; whether that is accepting Him as Savior or turning back to Him after a time of wandering away.  Like the father of the prodigal son; God is always watching and waiting to forgive and embrace.

PRAYER:

 

Father God, thank you for the salvation You have provided through Your Son Jesus Christ.  Thank You that through His sacrifice we can draw near to You.  There is forgiveness when we repent and You are our refuge.  Lord I pray for those who are living far from You today.  May they turn to You and find the peace, and shelter they are longing for.  Thank You for the truth of the promises in Your Word.  Amen.

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping Study (verses 25-26)

"Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth

that I desire besides you.  My flesh and my heart may fail,

but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Psalm 73:25-26

 

DESIGN:

"Whom have I in heaven [but you]? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.  My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the rock and strength of my heart and my portion forever." (AMP)

"Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth.  My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever." (NLT)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 25: 

chaphets - desire, to delight in

im - with, besides = excepts (here = and beside thee I delight not upon earth)

 

Verse 26:

sheer - flesh (next to the skin, body

lebab - inner man, mind, will, heart (here = inner man in contrast with the outer, my flesh and my heart doth fail).

tsur - rock, cliff (here = as support and defense of his people) figuratively a refuge, strength

cheleq - portion, tract, territory (here = as possession of his servants, in spiritual sense), inheritance

FIND:

Philippians 3:8 - "Indeed I count everything as loss because of the surpassing owrth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.  For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ."

Psalm 63:3 - "Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you."

Psalm 16:5-6 - "The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.  The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance."

2 Corinthians 4:16 - "So we do not lose heart.  Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day."

Isaiah 40:29 - "He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increase strength."

MANKIND:

Mankind is weak.  Our bodies wear out and our emotions and human understanding fail us.

GOD:

God is the only Source of true strength.  Everything apart from God will fail and end.

ASK/APPLICATION:

God is to be our true desire.  When we delight in Him the grip of all this world holds is loosened.  Everything here on earth from our inner man/emotions/will to our physical bodies will eventually fail, weaken, disappoint and perish.  Only God will be with us forever.  He is our rock, our refuge and our strength.  He is our support and defense.  He is our eternal inheritance and "portion forever".  Again here, we are reminded to keep our focus on God and not the thing of this world.  We are to live to glorify Him in all we do so that when our time here is over others would "see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16)

PRAYER:

 

Oh LORD when I turn my focus to you I am overwhelmed by your love and faithfulness.  I praise You for who You are; my Father, my portion...all I need...my strength.  Thank you for being the constant in this changing world; for your faithfulness.  For being my rock and strength in my weakness. Oh Lord, may my desire and delight be always in You.  Thank you for the many blessings you have given me here on earth; may they always and only point to You.  Lord keep my focus on You.  I love the phrasing "he is mine forever".  To try and fathom the truth of that phrase, that You, Creator of Heaven and Earth are mine forever is too much to comprehend.  I'm so thankful because I know how unworthy I am; yet You in Your great love have chosen me and called me beloved.  Thank You Father, Amen.

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping Study (verses 23-24)

"Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. 

You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory."

Psalm 73:23-24

 

DESIGN:

"Nevertheless, I am continually with You; You have taken hold of my right hand.  You will guide me with Your counsel, And afterward receive me to honor and glory." (AMP)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 23: 

achaz = to grasp, take hold, take possession (here = taking hold graciously)

Verse 24:

 etsah = counsel, advice

nachah = to lead, guide (here = of guiding, treating kindly (the helpless), especially in the path of blessing)

kabod = abundance, honor, glory

FIND:

Isaiah 41:13 - "For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Fear not, I am the one who helps you."

Psalm 16:8 - "I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken."

Psalm 32:8 - "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you."

James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."

MANKIND:

As believers, we are never alone! God is always with us.

GOD:

God is always with us.

God guides us.

God gives counsel.

God holds our hand.

God will receive us to glory.

ASK/APPLICATION:

The word "nevertheless" looks back at the previous verses.  We can be foolish, ignorant and brutish in our human thinking but God is always with us.  We always have access to His wisdom and guidance; we only have to ask.  God has promised His presence every moment of our time here on earth.  After this life He will be there still, to welcome and receive us into the abundance and glory of heaven, eternally being with Him.  The fact that God never leaves even when we are stupid and ignorant is such a comfort.  The truth of 2 Timothy 2:13 "if we are faithless, he remains faithful" is a promise that should lead us to repentance for the times we don't seek His wisdom and trust in our own understanding; but also to comfort that He is there ready and willing to forgive and instruct. 

PRAYER:

 

Dear Father, I praise You and thank You for the promises of Your presence, guidance, comfort and gift of eternal life. Oh LORD, may I be quick to repent and turn to You when I rely on my own understanding and may I rest in the comfort of Your continual, everlasting presence. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving!! (with a couple recipes)

 

 

Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving! May it be a time to 

reflect on the great things God has done this year.

I'm sharing two recipes that are quick and easy (and great for those last minute "oops I forgot" moments) and also two songs from my Thanksgiving playlist; because delicious food and good music are also requirements for the day.

The first recipe is a roll recipe that has become a staple in our house.  I've used the basic recipe (without the added seasonings) for everything from basic dinner rolls and hamburger buns to raised donut dough.  The variation below is a favorite with the kids so is what we'll be making today.

30 Minute Herb and Garlic Rolls 

(adapted from this recipe) 

Makes 15 rolls

 

1 Cup plus 2 TB warm water

1/3 Cup olive oil

2 TB active dry yeast

1/4 Cup Sugar

1 1/2 tsp salt

1 egg

3 1/2 Cups flour 

1 tsp garlic powder

1 TB Italian seasoning

Herbed Butter topping:

6 TB melted butter

1/2 TB Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)

3 cloves garlic, minced

Heat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit .

 

In a bowl combine the water, yeast and sugar; allow to rest until foamy to activate yeast.  Add in oil and egg.  Add in flour, salt, garlic powder and seasoning.  Mix until dough forms then knead until dough is soft and smooth (just a few minutes).  

Form dough into 15 balls and place in greased 9 x13 pan.  Loosely cover and allow to rest 10 minutes.  While rolls are resting make the Herbed butter topping.  Brush over rolls and place in oven.  Bake for 13-15 minutes. **Because these cook up so quickly they can be popped in the oven while the turkey is resting**

I always grew up with the jellied cranberry sauce from the can. I still like that kind but for the past several years I've made homemade cranberry sauce and much prefer the homemade kind.  This year I used this recipe from Spaceships & Laser Beams.  Look at the beautiful color in this sauce and it's SO easy to make.

 

And now for a couple Thanksgiving songs...

The Thanksgiving Song

Ben Rector

Come, Ye Thankful People, Come

Performed by: Hymn Charts.

What are your new or old "go-to" Thanksgiving recipes?  Do you have any favorite Thanksgiving songs or traditions? Drop a comment and share! 

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping Study (Verses 21-22)

"When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, 

I was brutish and ignorant; I was like a beast toward you."

Psalm 73:21-22

 

DESIGN:

"When my heart was embittered and I was pierced within [as with the fang of an adder], Then I was senseless and ignorant; I was like a beast before you." (AMP)

"Thus my heart was grieved, And I was pricked in my reins.  So foolish was I , and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee." (KJV)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 21:

chamets = to be sour or leavened

Verse 22:

baar = brutishness, senseless, stupid

lo = not (in this verse translated as ignorant)

FIND:

Psalm 73:3 - "For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked."

Psalm 37:7 - "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!"

Ecclesiastes 3:18 - "I said in my heart with regard to the children of man that God is testing them that they may see that they themselves are but beasts."

Psalm 92:6 - "The stupid man cannot know; the fool cannot understand this:"

MANKIND:

Man cannot understand the mind of God. We re like cattle, senseless and brutish when we try to figure things out in our own understanding.

GOD:

God gives new perspective and clarity. God is the only one with the wisdom and knowledge we need.

ASK/APPLICATION:

When we come into God's presence we realize how foolish we have been to become bitter and upset by the ways of the wicked.  It is foolishness to think that we can have knowledge, wisdom and understanding apart from God. We always need His perspective.

PRAYER:

Dear Father, You are so patient with me.  Thank you for understanding my weaknesses and for bearing with me and loving me.  For remembering that I am "but dust".  God I praise you for Your understanding and wisdom.  I thank You that You don't leave me in my ignorance but lovingly reveal Your Truth. God may I continually turn to You for the wisdom I need.  Correct my wrong thinking and ways and lead me in Your ways.  With love for You and others.  With and understanding that my thoughts and vision are so limited. Amen.

A bit of crafting

 I have a few more verse mapping posts to go and am hoping to get those posted soon.  In the meantime, I thought I would share a couple recent crafting projects.

This first project is a request from our oldest girl.  She needed a bag to carry notebooks, sketchpads, etc and loves mushrooms. The plan is to eventually line it with fabric so she can also carry writing and drawing tools without them falling out. 

The second project was a request from a friend whose niece is expecting.  They are planning a Winnie the Pooh theme. I used a basic bear lovey pattern; however, I adjusted the muzzle placement, altered the mouth and nose a bit and used Winnie the Pooh colors. 

Now I get to plan out my next project.  I have so many ideas pinned to choose from!

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping Study (verses 18 -20)

 

"Truly you set them in slippery places; you make them fall to ruin.  

How they are destroyed in a moment, swept away utterly by terrors!

Like a dream when one awakes, O LORD when you rouse yourself, 

you despise them as phantoms."

Psalm 73:18-20

DESIGN:

"Surely You set the wicked-minded and immoral on slippery places; You cast them down to destruction.  How they are destroyed in a moment! They are completely swept away by sudden terrors! Like a dream [which seems real] until one awakens, O LORD, when stirred, [You observe the wicked], You will despise their image." (AMP)

"Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction.  How they are destroyed in a moment! They are utterly swept away by sudden terrors! Like a dream when one awakes, O LORD when aroused, You will despise their form." (NASB)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 18:

makar = to sell (literally as merchandise into slavery), destruction.

Verse 20:

tselem = an image, illusion, phantom, idol, vain shew

FIND:

Jeremiah 23:12 - "Therefore their way shall be to them like slippery paths in the darkness, into which they shall be driven and fall, for I will bring disaster upon them in the year of their punishment, declares the LORD."

Proverbs 28:1 - "The wicked flee when no one pursues but the righteous are bold as a lion."

Psalm 78:65 - "Then the LORD awoke as from sleep, like a strong man shouting because of wine."

Job 20:8 - "He will fly away like a dream and not be found; he will be chased away like a vision of the night." 

MANKIND:

Man will reap what he sows.  Sin does not go unpunished.

GOD:

God must punish sin; He is long-suffering but His perfect justice and holiness demand that sin cannot be tolerated or excused. God hates idolatry and every false god will be destroyed. 

ASK/APPLICATION:

When we choose to turn away from God and set up our own gods/idols we are on a slippery slope that will lead to destruction.  In this verse the word makar means that we sell ourselves into slavery to our idols.  Just as Proverbs 14:12 reminds us; "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death."  Galatians 6:7 also is a strong warning "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap." The word for mocked in this verse is mukterizo and means "to sneer or to turn up the nose".  You cannot turn your nose up at God and His ways and not reap His just punishment.  We must be careful to check our hearts often so we do not start down a slippery slope of choosing slavery to sin.  Heed this truth from Romans 6:16 "Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?"

PRAYER:

Dear Father, I praise you for the truth and wisdom found in Your Word.  Please help me to be extremely aware anytime I start to turn from that truth and wisdom to follow my own ways.  Lord may I be quick to repent and turn back so that I don't slip further away.  I pray for those who are walking their own path; not following You.  May they see the error and danger of their thinking before it destroys them.  Lord show me any areas where I am trusting in my own understanding and turn my heart back to Your truth and ways.  Thank You for the forgiveness provided in Jesus' death and resurrection.  May I never take for granted or minimize the cost of sin and the price paid so that I could have a right relationship with You.  Amen.

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping Study (verses 16 - 17)

 

"But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task,

until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end." 

Psalm 73:16-17

DESIGN:

"When I considered how to  understand this, It was too great an effort for me and too painful Until I came into the sanctuary of God; Then I understood [for I considered] their end." (AMP)

"When I pondered to understand this, It was troublesome in my sight Until I came into the sanctuary of God; Then I perceived their end." (NASB)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 16:

chashab = to think, account, (think to do, devise, plan) consider, compute

amal = trouble, labor, toil, painful, misery, grievance

Verse 17:

bin = to discern (observe, mark, distinguish, consider with attention)

acharith = the after-part, end (here meaning = final lot, latter part or actual close)

FIND:

Ecclesiastes 8:17 - "then I saw all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun.  However much man may toil in seeking, he will not find it out.  Even though a wise man claims to know, he cannot find it out."

Psalm 119:130 - "The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple."

Psalm 27:4 - "One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple."

MANKIND:

Man's understanding is very limited.

GOD:

God is the Only One with ultimate understanding.

ASK/APPLICATION:

There is so much in life that we don't understand.  We often wear ourselves out trying to figure it all out.  We must take our questions & frustrations to God.  It is only in God's presence that our perspective and focus can be corrected.  Understanding can only come from God because only God has perfect knowledge, understanding and wisdom. 

PRAYER:

Dear LORD, Thank you for your patience with me when I try to figure it all out on my own.  Forgive me when I doubt Your ways.  God I praise you for your perfect knowledge. Please help me to continually come into Your presence to keep my focus and perspective right.  Amen

Psalm 73 - Verse Mapping Study (Verses 13-15)

 

"All in vain have I kept my heart clean and washed my hands in innocence.  

For all the day long I have been stricken and rebuked every morning. 

If I had said, "I will speak thus, " I would have betrayed the generation of your children."

Psalm 73:13-15

DESIGN:

"Surely then in vain I have cleansed my heart And washed my hands in innocence.  For all the day long I have been stricken, And punished every morning.  If I had said "I will say this," [and expressed my feelings], I would have betrayed the generation of Your children." (AMP)

"Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.  For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning.  If I say, I will speak thus; behold I should offend against the generation of thy children." (KJV)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 14:

naga - to touch, reach, strike (in this verse = strike) punish, defeat, destroy

tokachath - argument, reproof

Verse 15:

saphar - to recount (accusative form)

bagad - to act or deal treacherously (accusative form)

dor - generation ( in this verse = of the righteous as a class) 

FIND:

Job 21:15 - "What is the Almighty, that we should serve him?  And what profit do we get if we pray to him?"

Malachi 3:14 - "You have said, 'It is vain to serve God, What is the profit of our keeping his charge or of walking as in mourning before the LORD of hosts?"

Job 7:17-18 - "What is man, that you make so much of him, and that you set your heart on him, visit him every morning and test him every moment?"

1 Corinthians 8:11-12 - "And so by your knowledge this weak person is destroyed, the brother for who Christ died.  Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ."

MANKIND:

The wicked, sinful nature of mankind loves to beat down and argue with those that disagree with them.  Living a life that "goes against the grain" can be wearisome and discouraging.

GOD:

God cares for His own.  He cares if they get offended or betrayed.  The words we share with others matter to God.

ASK/APPLICATION:

Life can be discouraging.  When we are trying to live right and to keep our hearts clean it can be wearisome.  We often feel that we are getting constantly beaten down by the world.  Others just want to argue all the time and it can seem pointless to keep trying to follow God while other are "doing what is right in their own eyes" (Judges 17:6) and prospering in their ways.  

While it is part of being human to get tired and discouraged we need to be careful with whom we share those feelings.  We must be mindful not to cause others to stumble in their Christian walk; to not plant sinful thoughts or our own doubts into their thinking.  God cares deeply for His children and we are to also care for other Christians and the affect our words have on them.  We are also not to be like the world, arguing over foolish, earthly things (2 Timothy 2:23) which can also cause discouragement to other believers.

PRAYER:

Dear Father, thank you for your love and patience.  Thank you for understanding when I get tired, discouraged and feel beaten down by the wickedness and arrogance of this world.  Lord give me strength and encouragement to "not grow weary of doing good" but to remember that I will "in due season...reap if [I] do not give up" (Galatians 6:9).  God grant me wisdom and discernment when sharing with others.  That I don't discourage or cause others to stumble.  Thank you for those that walk alongside me; praying for me, upholding me and continually speaking truth in my life.  Lord, may I be that friend and encouragement to others.  Amen.

What we've been up to: House Edition

 It's been awhile since I've done a picture heavy post.  We recently finished remodeling our upstairs bathroom so I thought it would be a perfect time to share some pictures.  

When we moved into this house we knew there were a few things we would want to change.  Both bathrooms and the kitchen had tile countertops; which I hate.  They are so unsanitary (yucky grout that's hard to clean) and just not a good countertop surface.  A couple years ago we redid the downstairs guest bathroom.  We had some issues with the vanity and upstairs sink earlier this year so we decided it was time to remodel that bathroom as well. 

 

When we moved in; the bathroom was a "lovely" shade of peach, sponge painted over a textured wall. 

 

Starting to tear up the tile.

Well, this was a surprise; the thin trim board was screwed and anchored into

the wall, as well as glued.  See that great hole in the wall it caused?

Floor tiles are all torn out.  Starting to tear out the vanity.

Demo is almost done.  When we pulled down the medicine cabinet 

(you can see it on the right) we found 13 screw holes behind it.

The beginning of the new backer board for new flooring.

Because the walls were textured we couldn't just patch the holes and damage.

So, I learned how to skim coat to smooth out the walls. 

Getting some help with the priming.

He was a huge help!  He did all the sanding of the skim 

coat and then helped with the painting.

Laying out a couple floor tiles with the baseboard and new paint to check the color.

New slate tiles going in. 

These guys worked hard and did a beautiful job!

Cabinets have arrived.

Floor is in!

New window shade to brighten it up while still giving privacy.

Installing the cabinets

Counter is in!

...and there's a problem.  See that gap?  

On to plan B to level the wall out enough to install the backsplash

After a lot of mudding...yep that should work.

Painted boards to match the cabinets.  Backsplash & faucet all installed.

Done!  Love the new, fresh look.  

Even with the darker cabinet and wall it is still much brighter.  

It's always rewarding to look back through the pictures to see the change. One thing that has helped to brighten up the space is the new lighter countertop.  The light reflects off the counter and the mirror.  I hope you enjoyed seeing the process.  We were surprised by how many issues we did face with this project since the house isn't that old (built in the 1990's).  Always an adventure when doing house projects! 

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping (Verses 11-12)

 

"Any they say, "How can God know? Is there knowledge in the Most Hight?"

Behold, these are the wicked; always at ease, they increase in riches."

Psalm 73:11-12

DESIGN:

"They say, "How does God know? And is there knowledge with the Most High?"  Behold, these are the wicked; And always at ease, they have increased in wealth." (NASB)

"They say "How does God know?  Is there knowledge [of us] with the Most High?"  Behold, these are the ungodly, who always prosper and are at ease [ in the world]; they have increased in wealth." (AMP) 

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 11:

yada - to know, to ascertain by seeing

deah - knowledge

FIND:

Psalm 94:7 - "and they say, "The LORD does not see; and the God of Jacob does not perceive." 

Job 22:13-14 - "But you say, 'What does God know?  Can he judge through the deep darkness?  Thick clouds veil him, so that he does not see, and he walks on the vault of heaven'."

Psalm 52:7 - "See the man who would not make God his refuge, but trusted in teh abundance of his riches and sought refuge in his own destruction."

Psalm 62:10 - "Put no trust in extortion; set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, set not your heart on them."

MANKIND:

As men continue in wickedness they don't think that God is even aware or cares what they do.  They deny God more and more.  Proverbs 30:9 warns about this very thing.  The prayer of this Proverb is to avoid such thinking;  that we won't be "full and deny you and say "Who is the LORD?"  These wicked men rely on their riches.  Their money and wickedness have become their idols. 

GOD:

God is always aware.  God knows, sees, and hears all that we do.  He may hold off judgement for a time but He is not unaware.  He knows the evil.  He sees evil, boastful hearts that deny Him and He has full knowledge of every thought and deed.

ASK/APPLICATION:

Our actions and thoughts are never hid from God. As much as we lean on being fully known for comfort, that very truth is both humbling and; when we sin, can be embarrassing.  But rather than living in shame; as believers, we can rejoice that while we are fully known we are also fully loved.  We must never live in the space of thinking we can "get away" with sin.  We will reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7).  However, there is also mercy and forgiveness when we repent (1 John 1:9).  So repent and "sow to the Spirit" to "reap eternal life" (Galatians 6:8).  While the wicked may have earthly riches and treasures those things will not last.  We must keep our hearts pure from being envious of them and focused on eternity remembering to lay up our treasures in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).

PRAY:

Dear Father, I praise you and thank you that you know all.  God this is humbling when I think of how often I fail but thank you that while I am fully known I am also fully loved by You.  God help me to be aware of sinful thoughts and attitudes that creep in, help me to be quick to confess those, turn from that thinking and refocus on the truths in Your Word.  God help me to never put my trust in earthly prosperity or riches but to remember that true treasure is found in You.  I praise and thank you for the greatest treasure...the relationship with You granted to me through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.  Thank you for His sacrifice, and resurrection.  Thank you that salvation is through grace and not works (Ephesians 2:8-9).  I praise you for all this and ask that You would keep my focus on You as I go throughout my day.  Amen.

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping (Verses 9 & 10)

 

"They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongue struts

through the earth.  Therefore his people turn back to them, and

find no fault in them."

Psalm 73:9-10

DESIGN:

"They set their mouth against the heavens, And their tongue walketh through the earth.  Therefore his people return hither: And waters of a full cup are wrung out to them." (KJV)

"They set their mouth against the heavens, And their tongue swaggers through the earth. Therefore his people return to this place, And waters of abundance [offered by the irreverent] are [blindly] drunk by then." (AMP)

"Their mouths dare to speak against heaven! Their tongues roam the earth! That's why people keep going back to them, keep approving what they say." (CEB)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 9:

halak - to go, come, walk

Verse 10:

shub - to turn back, return *in this verse meaning = to return to physical thing (but corrupt)

mayim - waters

male - full, fully

matsah - to drain, drain out, suck 

FIND:

Daniel 7:25 - "He shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time." 

Job 21:14 - "They say to God, 'Depart from us!' We do not desire the knowledge of your ways."

Psalm 15:8 - "For in the hand of the LORD there is a cup with foaming wine, well mixed, and he pours out from it, and all the wicked of the earth shall drain it down to the dregs."

ACTIONS:

These verses are some that are discussed between Biblical Scholars.  The meaning of verse 10 is said to be unclear in the original Hebrew.  The original wording includes the phrasing about drinking waters and, while most translations include that, there are a few that speak more of an approval of the wicked. There is some debate on what the cup & waters represent as there are different meanings of these throughout the Old Testament.  There is also some debate on who the "his" refers to; some say it refers to God and other commentaries said it refers to the wicked speaker in this passage.  After reading several Bible versions, commentaries and praying for understanding; the following sections are my thoughts on these verses.  However, a good discussion is always welcome so drop your thoughts in the comments.

MANKIND:

As the wicked prosper, with seemingly no consequences, they become more bold and arrogant in their rejection of God and trust in themselves.  They spread their wickedness to any who will listen.  When God's people listen to this wicked boasting some will turn back to their wicked ways.  They'll drink up everything that the wicked tell them.  The literal wording means to suck up every last drop - drink to the dregs.  They don't see anything wrong with what the wicked say.  It looks and sounds great to them because they are relying on their own understanding.

GOD:

God sometimes allows the wicked to prosper.  We may not understand why but it is always for His perfect purposes.  We are reminded in Daniel 7:25 that even though the wicked may have earthly prosperity and power for a time; both the length of that time and their amount of influence is still controlled by God's Sovereignty.

ASK/APPLICATION:

It is crucial that we always go back to Scripture and God's wisdom.  The messages of this world may sound good; they may even bring earthly prosperity to some, but if they draw us away from God they are wicked! Are the people we are listening to grounded in Jesus?  Are they relying on His Truth or are they relying on man's wisdom and understanding?  Let us be careful to remember the truths of Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." and Jeremiah 17:5 "Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD."

PRAY:

Dear Father, thank you for the truth of your word.  Thank you that when so many voices are vying for our attention we have a firm foundation of truth.  We have an absolute whereby we can measure everything else.  God I praise you for your sovereignty; to know that all is held in the power of your hand.  That earthly prosperity isn't what matters.  God forgive me for the times I let the world's voices and opinions influence me.  Keep me faithful to you and to fill my mind and heart with Your wisdom and truth.  AMEN

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping (verses 7 & 8)

 

"Their eyes swell out through fatness; their hearts overflow with follies.

They scoff and speak with malice; loftily they threaten oppression."

Psalm 73:7-8

DESIGN:

"Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have ore than heart could wish.  They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily." (KJV)

"Their eye bulges from fatness; The imaginations of their heart overflow.  They mock and wickedly speak of oppression; they speak from on high." (NASB)

"Their eye bulges from fatness [they have more than the heart desires]; the imagination of their mind run riot [with foolishness].  They mock and wickedly speak of oppression; they speak loftily [with malice]." (AMP)

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 7:

maskith = showpiece, figure, imagination, carved image, conceit, imagery, picture, wish

abar = to pass over, through, or by, pass on

Verse 8:

muq = to mock, deride **this is the only place in Scripture where this word is used**

ra = evil, distress, misery, injury, calamity

marom = height *speak as if from the the sky, from heaven, so arrogantly*

osheq = oppression, extortion, thing deceitfully gotten

FIND:

Proverbs 19:3 - "When a man's folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD."

Jeremiah 5:28 - "They have grown fat and sleek.  They know no bounds in deeds of evil; they judge not with justice the cause of the fatherless, to make it prosper, and the do not defend the rights of the needy."

Psalm 17:10 - "They close their hearts to pity; with their mouths they speak arrogantly."

MANKIND:

Pride builds in the heart of mankind; it overflows in conceit, it is their idol.  Mankind, trusts in what they have; in what they can do. They have such a high opinion of themselves.  They speak as if they have the place of heaven; boasting of what they have gotten deceitfully and oppressing others.

ASK/APPLICATION:

This is a stark warning of the depravity that occurs when pride rules in our hearts.  We can become so full of ourselves and our own opinions that we end up hurting and oppressing others. Our opinions and all we have become idols to us.  We place our trust in ourselves and in our opinions rather than trusting what God has said. 

PRAYER:

Oh God, fill me with a humble spirit.  Forgive me for trusting in my own opinions, in my prideful heart.  Forgive me for the times I thought I knew better and ended up hurting those around me. Turn my heart from those areas of pride.  God You have given us all we need in Your word; may we trust in what You have said and not be so full of ourselves that we become depraved in our thinking. God we need you!  Amen.

Psalm 73 Verse Mapping (verses 5 & 6)

 

"They are not in trouble as others are; they are not stricken like the 

rest of mankind.  Therefore pride is their necklace; violence

covers them as a garment." 

Psalm 73:5-6

DESIGN:

"They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men.  Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment." (KJV)

"They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills.  Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence." (NIV) 

DEVELOPMENT:

Verse 5:

amal = trouble, labor, toil, sorrow, one's own suffering

naga = to touch, reach, strike, plagued, stricken **indicates the idea of being brought down**

Verse 6:

anaq = to serve as a necklace, to choke **used figuratively meaning to furnish liberally**

shith = a garment, attire

ataph = to envelop oneself, covered

chamas =violence, wrong **wickedness of men, noisy, wild ruthlessness**

FIND:

Proverbs 29:8 - "Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath."

Proverbs 29:16 - "When the wicked increase, transgression increases but the righteous will look upon their downfall."

Psalm 86:14 - "O God, insolent men have risen up against me; a band of ruthless men seeks my life, and they do not set you before them."

Malachi 3:15 - "And now we call the arrogant blessed. Evildoers not only prosper but they put God to the test and they escape."

MANKIND:

Arrogance and pride are characteristics of the wicked.  They envelop themselves in violence and ruthlessness. This is a choice they make (see wording in NIV and meaning of original word ataph).  They lift their head in pride while choosing to be ignorant to the fact that they are chained and choked by that same pride.

ASK/APPLICATION:

Looking at the original language I find it interesting that the verses speak of toil and labor.  The wicked do not toil as others do; they are not brought down or plagued by many of the concerns other men have.  So in this they become prideful while being unaware that their pride is a chain that chokes them.  They choose to envelop themselves in violence and wickedness;  being noisy, wild and ruthless. 

These verses are a warning to not become prideful or arrogant when we are blessed.  It's important to step back and ask for God to search out any areas of pride in our own life.  What are our priorities? Are we living in a prideful way?  1 Peter 5:5 tells us that God resists the proud.  What characterizes our life?  Pride or humility?  Righteousness or wickedness?  Peace or noisy ruthlessness? It is SO important to stamp out pride; to not let it grow.  Lest we become chained by our pride because that leads to all kind of wickedness.  Instead, we are to be clothed in gentleness and humility (Colossians 3:12).

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, Please reveal any areas of pride in my heart; any places where I have clothed myself in wrong.  Forgive me for seeking to live in my own strength, power and understanding in any areas of pride. Cleanse me and turn my heart to You.  Lord help me to remember each day to clothe myself in gentleness and humility.  I praise you that as Your child I have the power to resist sin and to choose righteousness. Amen.