“If clearness about things produces a fundamental despair, a fundamental despair in turn produces a remarkable clearness or even playfulness about ordinary matters.” (George Santayana, The Background of My Life, 1944)

                People across America were saddened last week to learn that comedian and actor Robin Williams had died, apparently by suicide. It was also reported that he had suffered from severe depression.He was well known for rapid-fire improvisations and serious dramatic roles. He was also known for his charitable work, kindness, generosity, and entertaining U.S. troops overseas. President Obama called Williams “one of a kind.” Then the president said “he touched every element of the human spirit; he made us laugh, and he made us cry.”

                Williams had problems with drugs and alcohol, but had sought treatment. He’d also had heart surgery in 2009, something that caused him to take a serious look at his personal life. Acknowledgment of his severe depression came as no surprise to many. Ordinary people can identify with his despair; people who “have it made” also can, realizing it is possible to have everything and still feel like dying.

                Though some people talk about depression as a character flaw or sin, followers of Christ are not exempt. And despite simplistic statements that people just need to “pull themselves out of it”, recovery is far more complicated. If we want to reach out to people suffering from recurring depression, we must realize they need more than a push to “get moving”. It we want to help, we must realize the truth of what Plato said—“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”

                To be honest, some sadness and depression are normal in every human life. Moses was in such despair he asked God to take his life (Numbers 11:14-15). Elijah was so deeply depressed he prayed to die (1 Kings 19:4). Psalm 42 is a meditation by a person suffering from depression.

                Difficult circumstances may darken our mood. At other times, we may feel down for no apparent reason. This is part of the pain of being human. But there’s also clinical or chronic depression—a pervasive, persistent despair having nothing to do with our circumstances. This is the dark night of the soul that F. Scott Fitzgerald said made it “always three o’clock in the morning, day after day.” Most people with chronic depression can find help from prescribed medications and counseling.

                The person who wrote Psalm 42 was obviously suffering from depression—perhaps situational, certainly painful. But the psalmist did not give up, believing that God and not depression would have the last word. “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.”

                Plato was right—everyone we meet is fighting a hard battle. Every human being has pain, whether the cause is visible or not. So we should have a heart and empathize with others.

                No matter what we go through, we cannot control what happens to us but we can control how we respond to our experiences. Victor Frankl learned this lesson in a  WWII concentration camp: “the last of human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances.”  We can choose to respond with humble gratitude for the many blessings from God we have received; with patient trust in God’s faithfulness even when we cannot see the ultimate destination of our difficult journey; with courage to face each day’s challenge as it comes, depending on the power of Christ within our hearts.

                Williams was once asked, “If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?” In response, the comedian told a joke about a concert including Mozart and Elvis, then said he’d like to know that there’s laughter. There is laughter in heaven (Luke 15:7; Revelation 12:10-12). There is also joy in the here and now, as we draw near God (Psalm 16:11).

                “The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Therefore I will hope in him!” (Lamentations 3:22-24 NLT)

             Johnny R. Almond

             Christian preacher and writer

             Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

             http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

               “If clearness about things produces a fundamental despair, a fundamental despair in turn produces a remarkable clearness or even playfulness about ordinary matters.” (George Santayana, The Background of My Life, 1944)

                People across America were saddened last week to learn that comedian and actor Robin Williams had died, apparently by suicide. It was also reported that he had suffered from severe depression. He was well known for rapid-fire improvisations and serious dramatic roles. He was also known for his charitable work, kindness, generosity, and entertaining U.S. troops overseas. President Obama called Williams “one of a kind.” Then the president said “he touched every element of the human spirit; he made us laugh, and he made us cry.”

                Williams had problems with drugs and alcohol, but had sought treatment. He’d also had heart surgery in 2009, something that caused him to take a serious look at his personal life. Acknowledgment of his severe depression came as no surprise to many. Ordinary people can identify with his despair; people who “have it made” also can, realizing it is possible to have everything and still feel like dying.

                Though some people talk about depression as a character flaw or sin, followers of Christ are not exempt. And despite simplistic statements that people just need to “pull themselves out of it”, recovery is far more complicated. If we want to reach out to people suffering from recurring depression, we must realize they need more than a push to “get moving”. It we want to help, we must realize the truth of what Plato said—“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”

                To be honest, some sadness and depression are normal in every human life. Moses was in such despair he asked God to take his life (Numbers 11:14-15). Elijah was so deeply depressed he prayed to die (1 Kings 19:4). Psalm 42 is a meditation by a person suffering from depression.

                Difficult circumstances may darken our mood. At other times, we may feel down for no apparent reason. This is part of the pain of being human. But there’s also clinical or chronic depression—a pervasive, persistent despair having nothing to do with our circumstances. This is the dark night of the soul that F. Scott Fitzgerald said made it “always three o’clock in the morning, day after day.” Most people with chronic depression can find help from prescribed medications and counseling.

                The person who wrote Psalm 42 was obviously suffering from depression—perhaps situational, certainly painful. But the psalmist did not give up, believing that God and not depression would have the last word. “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.”

                Plato was right—everyone we meet is fighting a hard battle. Every human being has pain, whether the cause is visible or not. So we should have a heart and empathize with others.

                 No matter what we go through, we cannot control what happens to us but we can control how we respond to our experiences. Victor Frankl learned this lesson in a  WWII concentration camp: “the last of human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances.”  We can choose to respond with humble gratitude for the many blessings from God we have received; with patient trust in God’s faithfulness even when we cannot see the ultimate destination of our difficult journey; with courage to face each day’s challenge as it comes, depending on the power of Christ within our hearts.

                Williams was once asked, “If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?” In response, the comedian told a joke about a concert including Mozart and Elvis, then said he’d like to know that there’s laughter. There is laughter in heaven (Luke 15:7; Revelation 12:10-12). There is also joy in the here and now, as we draw near God (Psalm 16:11).

                “The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Therefore I will hope in him!” (Lamentations 3:22-24 NLT)

             Johnny R. Almond

            Christian preacher and writer

            Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

            http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com

“It is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law, so much as for the right.”

- Thoreau, Civil Disobedience (1849)

Since God is the Absolute Sovereign of the universe, He alone deserves reverential fear.

We should submit to no lesser governor who dares countermand His rules for living.

No matter what society says is permissible, we should walk heaven’s high road.

In every situation, we should honor God above all earthly legal authority.

A higher law of integrity outshines the common practice of compromise.

A higher law of life conquers and cancels the dreadful reign of death.

A higher law of hope transcends the suffocating rule of despair.

A higher law of freedom breaks the merciless tyranny of sin.

Civil disobedience is imperative when human ideas clash with heavenly directives.

Whatever the god of the world advocates, God’s Word is the final answer.

Whatever earthly kings say, the King of kings is the highest authority.

Whatever opinion polls say, we should fear God, nothing else.

“Because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king.”

(Exodus 1:17 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

This devotion based on Day 37 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog & bio)

“It is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law, so much as for the right.”

- Thoreau, Civil Disobedience (1849)

Since God is the Absolute Sovereign of the universe, He alone deserves reverential fear.

We should submit to no lesser governor who dares countermand His rules for living.

No matter what society says is permissible, we should walk heaven’s high road.

In every situation, we should honor God above all earthly legal authority.

A higher law of integrity outshines the common practice of compromise.

A higher law of life conquers and cancels the dreadful reign of death.

A higher law of hope transcends the suffocating rule of despair.

A higher law of freedom breaks the merciless tyranny of sin.

Civil disobedience is imperative when human ideas clash with heavenly directives.

Whatever the god of the world advocates, God’s Word is the final answer.

Whatever earthly kings say, the King of kings is the highest authority.

Whatever opinion polls say, we should fear God, nothing else.

“Because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king.”

(Exodus 1:17 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

This devotion based on Day 37 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog & bio)

“I can’t decide whether to watch the evening news, and be unable to eat;

or to watch the nightly news, and be unable to sleep.”

- Anonymous

The person who said this would have an even bigger problem these days.

Up-to-the-minute 24/7 news keeps us informed of the global turn of events—

events often so discouraging, we begin to wonder how the world even holds together.

Reviewing today’s CNN headlines does little to encourage an optimistic outlook for the future—

ISIS executes Yazidis who refuse to convert, crucifying people and bragging about it online;

Ebola outbreak has killed 961 people, triggering international public health emergency;

St. Louis suburb scene of looting and violence, following shooting of teen by police;

West Bank clashes in Hebron turn deadly, as Mideast spirals in war and terror;

Iraq President appoints new prime minister, complicating power struggle;

Tens of thousands of Yazidis flee trying to escape ISIS in Iraq and Syria;

Iraqi tanks surge toward Baghdad, threatening the U.S. Embassy.

In an effort to end its broadcast on a good note, a major network has a “Making a Difference” segment.

It’s nice to hear about occasional sparks of goodness in a fallen world, gleams of hope in the shadows.

However, when “everything nailed down comes loose,” we ask what in the world will happen next.

Jesus warned of “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6)—as always, it turns out He’s right.

He said “heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away” (Matthew 24:35).

Nothing short of Christ’s return can bring peace to this troubled world.

Believe it or not, this dream of universal peace will materialize.

Revelation could be summarized—relax, we’re going to win!

In the midst of all the bad news, here’s some good news that’s a promise we can count on coming true—

“As the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west,

so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”  (Matthew 24:27)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog & bio)

“I can’t decide whether to watch the evening news, and be unable to eat;

or to watch the nightly news, and be unable to sleep.”

- Anonymous

The person who said this would have an even bigger problem these days.

Up-to-the-minute 24/7 news keeps us informed of the global turn of events—

events often so discouraging, we begin to wonder how the world even holds together.

Reviewing today’s CNN headlines does little to encourage an optimistic outlook for the future—

ISIS executes Yazidis who refuse to convert, crucifying people and bragging about it online;

Ebola outbreak has killed 961 people, triggering international public health emergency;

St. Louis suburb scene of looting and violence, following shooting of teen by police;

West Bank clashes in Hebron turn deadly, as Mideast spirals in war and terror;

Iraq President appoints new prime minister, complicating power struggle;

Tens of thousands of Yazidis flee trying to escape ISIS in Iraq and Syria;

Iraqi tanks surge toward Baghdad, threatening the U.S. Embassy.

In an effort to end its broadcast on a good note, a major network has a “Making a Difference” segment.

It’s nice to hear about occasional sparks of goodness in a fallen world, gleams of hope in the shadows.

However, when “everything nailed down comes loose,” we ask what in the world will happen next.

Jesus warned of “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6)—as always, it turns out He’s right.

He said “heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away” (Matthew 24:35).

Nothing short of Christ’s return can bring peace to this troubled world.

Believe it or not, this dream of universal peace will materialize.

Revelation could be summarized—relax, we’re going to win!

In the midst of all the bad news, here’s some good news that’s a promise we can count on coming true—

“As the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west,

so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”  (Matthew 24:27)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog & bio)

“Those who hope for no other life are dead even in this.”

- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

People frequently make sad mistakes at funerals—

eulogizing a loved one only in the past tense, as if life were all history;

mourners speaking of the need for closure, laying to rest previous relationships;

through ritual and ceremony, trying to bury strong emotional ties along with the remains.

Grieving people do need to continue responsibly; and life, whether we like it or not, does go on.

However, what we need most is a sense of OPENING—a skylight of hope in the dungeon of despair.

Human beings do live on after death; it’s not all over when names appear in obituary columns.

The God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph did not say He was their God—He said I am.

God is the God of the living, not the dead—death does not have the final say—Life does.  

The future will be as bright as the promises of God.

The Lamb’s wedding will follow Satan’s funeral.

Life’s gala will succeed death’s dirge.

Heaven will cancel heartbreak.

Jesus is our skylight of hope.

“O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?

Sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power.

But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

(1 Corinthians 15:55-57 ESV)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[Devotion based on Day 36 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog)

“Those who hope for no other life are dead even in this.”

- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

People frequently make sad mistakes at funerals—

eulogizing a loved one only in the past tense, as if life were all history;

mourners speaking of the need for closure, laying to rest previous relationships;

through ritual and ceremony, trying to bury strong emotional ties along with the remains.

Grieving people do need to continue responsibly; and life, whether we like it or not, does go on.

However, what we need most is a sense of OPENING—a skylight of hope in the dungeon of despair.

Human beings do live on after death; it’s not all over when names appear in obituary columns.

The God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph did not say He was their God—He said I am.

God is the God of the living, not the dead—death does not have the final say—Life does.  

The future will be as bright as the promises of God.

The Lamb’s wedding will follow Satan’s funeral.

Life’s gala will succeed death’s dirge.

Heaven will cancel heartbreak.

Jesus is our skylight of hope.

“O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?

Sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power.

But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

(1 Corinthians 15:55-57 ESV)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[Devotion based on Day 36 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog)

              “You may call for peace as loudly as you wish, but where there is no brotherhood there can be in the end no peace.” (Max Lerner, “The Gifts of the Magi,” 1949)

                Images from the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict are disconcerting—Palestinians searching through debris for survivors; corpses amid the rubble of more than 10,000 destroyed houses; boys carrying pages of copies of the Quran from a mosque hit in an airstrike; distraught mourners at funerals of Israeli soldiers.

                Since the conflict started July 8, more than 1900 Palestinians have been killed, mostly civilians. More than 60 Israeli soldiers have been killed in the fighting.

                This morning, another ray of hope is on the horizon. After several short-lived humanitarian truces, Israel and Hamas have accepted a three-day cease-fire proposal from Egypt beginning at 8 a.m.

                The Israeli military reports that its ground troops are in the process of pulling out of the Gaza Strip, following its destruction of 32 cross-border tunnels designed to permit Islamic militants to attack Israel. If the cease-fire works, Egypt will host talks to work out a long-term agreement. Israel insists that Gaza be demilitarized. Hamas continues to protest its economic isolation. Hope for lasting peace is precarious.

                National leaders seek to protect their citizens, and diplomats attempt to broker compromise between warring peoples. But centuries-old disputes die hard. Lasting peace continues to be illusive in the maelstrom of the Middle East. The best minds and noblest efforts have never been able to resolve the issues of warring sides. Cordiality seems a fanciful dream, conflict inevitable.

                Ultimately, Christians believe, the answer to the world’s perennial problem of war is the return and reign of the Lord Jesus Christ. We live in hope that the Son of God will bring enduring tranquility to the human situation. Despite all temptations to give in to despair, we look forward to the time of peace negotiated by the Prince of Peace.

                “Out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.”  (Isaiah 2:3-4 ESV)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog & bio)

              “You may call for peace as loudly as you wish, but where there is no brotherhood there can be in the end no peace.” (Max Lerner, “The Gifts of the Magi,” 1949)

                Images from the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict are disconcerting—Palestinians searching through debris for survivors; corpses amid the rubble of more than 10,000 destroyed houses; boys carrying pages of copies of the Quran from a mosque hit in an airstrike; distraught mourners at funerals of Israeli soldiers.

                Since the conflict started July 8, more than 1900 Palestinians have been killed, mostly civilians. More than 60 Israeli soldiers have been killed in the fighting.

                This morning, another ray of hope is on the horizon. After several short-lived humanitarian truces, Israel and Hamas have accepted a three-day cease-fire proposal from Egypt beginning at 8 a.m.

                The Israeli military reports that its ground troops are in the process of pulling out of the Gaza Strip, following its destruction of 32 cross-border tunnels designed to permit Islamic militants to attack Israel. If the cease-fire works, Egypt will host talks to work out a long-term agreement. Israel insists that Gaza be demilitarized. Hamas continues to protest its economic isolation. Hope for lasting peace is precarious.

                National leaders seek to protect their citizens, and diplomats attempt to broker compromise between warring peoples. But centuries-old disputes die hard. Lasting peace continues to be illusive in the maelstrom of the Middle East. The best minds and noblest efforts have never been able to resolve the issues of warring sides. Cordiality seems a fanciful dream, conflict inevitable.

                Ultimately, Christians believe, the answer to the world’s perennial problem of war is the return and reign of the Lord Jesus Christ. We live in hope that the Son of God will bring enduring tranquility to the human situation. Despite all temptations to give in to despair, we look forward to the time of peace negotiated by the Prince of Peace.

                 “Out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.”  (Isaiah 2:3-4 ESV)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized (copy, paste to browser for blog & bio)

      “I never thought we would be world champions. We have to be humble.” 

       (Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal forward, after his team’s 2-2 draw with the U.S. in the World Cup)

        The 2014 FIFA World Cup has captured the attention of millions around the world—putting work on hold, mesmerizing fans, raising enthusiasm to a fever pitch,and moving many to gamble on hopeful outcomes. Yesterday, despite chants of “USA…USA…” America’s premier soccer team experienced a heartbreaking loss to Belgium.  

        Is this sports phenomenon merely a diversion from workplace drudgery, providing temporary relief from daily responsibilities? Is it an extension of national pride,a patriotic contest for supposed superiority? Or does it serve as a substitutionary contest, giving spectators an opportunity to imagine they are the ones making the goals (or saving them)?

         There seems to be a human need to win vicariously, satisfied by victories of one’s favorite team. Life is difficult (as Scott Peck observed). We don’t always win life’s battles,no matter how hard we fight. So it’s good to celebrate our team’s success when they win a game; in the process we feel better for a while. Somehow we’re encouraged to face life’s daily frustrations energized by a small dose of exhilaration.

        I wonder if there might be something more profound going on in this global frenzy over soccer. Could there actually be (to use Jurgen Moltmann’s term) a theology of play? If so, what might it imply? Is there an innate, even God-given, human need for lightheartedness and game playing? Does the agony of defeat drive us to search for more meaningful and valuable enterprises?

        When the World Cup contest is over, and the final winner is announced, what difference will it make in our daily life? As exciting as sports victories are, spiritual victories are more crucial—and lasting. When we fully rely on God to enable us to win over worry, fear, greed, and other sins, triumphing is a real cause for wholehearted celebration.   

         “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. Thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 16:20;  1 Corinthians 15:57 NLT)

        Johnny R. Almond

        Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

        http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

       “I never thought we would be world champions. We have to be humble.” 

       (Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal forward, after his team’s 2-2 draw with the U.S. in the World Cup)

        The 2014 FIFA World Cup has captured the attention of millions around the world—putting work on hold, mesmerizing fans, raising enthusiasm to a fever pitch,and moving many to gamble on hopeful outcomes. Yesterday, despite chants of “USA…USA…” America’s premier soccer team experienced a heartbreaking loss to Belgium.  

        Is this sports phenomenon merely a diversion from workplace drudgery, providing temporary relief from daily responsibilities? Is it an extension of national pride,a patriotic contest for supposed superiority? Or does it serve as a substitutionary contest, giving spectators an opportunity to imagine they are the ones making the goals (or saving them)?

         There seems to be a human need to win vicariously, satisfied by victories of one’s favorite team. Life is difficult (as Scott Peck observed). We don’t always win life’s battles,no matter how hard we fight. So it’s good to celebrate our team’s success when they win a game; in the process we feel better for a while. Somehow we’re encouraged to face life’s daily frustrations energized by a small dose of exhilaration.

        I wonder if there might be something more profound going on in this global frenzy over soccer. Could there actually be (to use Jurgen Moltmann’s term) a theology of play? If so, what might it imply? Is there an innate, even God-given, human need for lightheartedness and game playing? Does the agony of defeat drive us to search for more meaningful and valuable enterprises?

        When the World Cup contest is over, and the final winner is announced, what difference will it make in our daily life? As exciting as sports victories are, spiritual victories are more crucial—and lasting. When we fully rely on God to enable us to win over worry, fear, greed, and other sins, triumphing is a real cause for wholehearted celebration.   

         “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. Thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 16:20;  1 Corinthians 15:57 NLT)

        Johnny R. Almond

        Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

        http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

"Don't break your arm patting yourself on the back!" my father used to say. So how did the turtle get on such a lofty perch on that fence post?

“There is a Power whose care / Teaches the way along that pathless coast.

The desert and illimitable air / Lone wandering, but not lost.”

                                                     - William Cullen Bryant, “To a Waterfowl” (1818)

Taking a break from the hectic human race to review our life is beneficial—

Looking back, we realize God’s faithfulness in meeting all of our needs.

Skeptics question God’s care, but experience has taught us better.

All of our lifelong odyssey, to this day, God has been our Pastor.

When we were exhausted, He let us rest in green meadows.

When we were distressed, He steered us to serene havens.

When devastated by our guilt, He helped us to our feet.

When disoriented, He charted a course in our  mind.

When we trembled in the dark, He was our light.

Surrounded by enemies, He was our shield.

Discouraged, His goodness reinforced us.

Grace momentum inspired our journey.

Jesus is gently shepherding us home.

Taking His hand, we learn to dance.

“The God who shepherded me through life to this moment…”

Genesis 48:15 MLB

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 34 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)

"Don't break your arm patting yourself on the back!" my father used to say. So how did the turtle get on such a lofty perch on that fence post?

“There is a Power whose care / Teaches the way along that pathless coast.

The desert and illimitable air / Lone wandering, but not lost.”

                                            - William Cullen Bryant, “To a Waterfowl” (1818)

Taking a break from the hectic human race to review our life is beneficial—

Looking back, we realize God’s faithfulness in meeting all of our needs.

Skeptics question God’s care, but experience has taught us better.

All of our lifelong odyssey, to this day, God has been our Pastor.

When we were exhausted, He let us rest in green meadows.

When we were distressed, He steered us to serene havens.

When devastated by our guilt, He helped us to our feet.

When disoriented, He charted a course in our  mind.

When we trembled in the dark, He was our light.

Surrounded by enemies, He was our shield.

Discouraged, His goodness reinforced us.

Grace momentum inspired our journey.

Jesus is gently shepherding us home.

Taking His hand, we learn to dance.

“The God who shepherded me through life to this moment…”

Genesis 48:15 MLB

                                                                        Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 34 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)

We demonstrate our faith by the way we live. Conduct communicates more clearly than creed.

“Faith is kept alive in us, and gathers strength, more from practice than from speculations.”

- Joseph Addison

Light from heaven beams down, profiling your life as a vital witness to eternal realities.

The outline of transforming faith boldly stands out against passive conformity.

Etched against a circumstantial backdrop, people watch as you worship.

Devotional contour preaches a clearer message than your words.

Totally reliant on your Creator, you are never disappointed.

Lean on the Everlasting Arms, and sing His praises.  

Radically disciplined, you are educated in timeless wisdom.

Listen to echoes from eternity, and find lasting truth.

Humbly appreciative, you’re never too busy to give thanks.

Learn to be content whatever happens, and be rich.

Unquestioningly obedient, you carry out Christ’s orders.

Live by His Word, and He will be real to you.

Hopefully devoted, you walk in Jesus’ steps every day.

Love Him sincerely, and be blessed eternally.

“Jacob bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff.”

(Genesis 47:31 NLT)

                                                                                               Johnny R. Almond

                Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 33 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)

We demonstrate our faith by the way we live. Conduct communicates more clearly than creed.

“Faith is kept alive in us, and gathers strength,

more from practice than from speculations.”

- Joseph Addison

Light from heaven beams down, profiling your life as a vital witness to eternal realities.

The outline of transforming faith boldly stands out against passive conformity.

Etched against a circumstantial backdrop, people watch as you worship.

Devotional contour preaches a clearer message than your words.

Totally reliant on your Creator, you are never disappointed.

Lean on the Everlasting Arms, and sing His praises.  

Radically disciplined, you are educated in timeless wisdom.

Listen to echoes from eternity, and find lasting truth.

Humbly appreciative, you’re never too busy to give thanks.

Learn to be content whatever happens, and be rich.

Unquestioningly obedient, you carry out Christ’s orders.

Live by His Word, and He will be real to you.

Hopefully devoted, you walk in Jesus’ steps every day.

Love Him sincerely, and be blessed eternally.

“Jacob bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff.”

(Genesis 47:31 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

                                                         Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 33 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)

Many people talk about having good luck. Christians give credit to the good Lord.

“The superior man is quiet and calm, waiting for the appointments of Heaven,

while the mean man walks in dangerous paths, looking for lucky occurrences.”

- Tzesze (5^th century B.C.)

God is Sovereign—governing the universe, ruling and overruling all of life.

In His hands, even malicious intentions are tools to forge ultimate good.

Whatever gets to us—whether pleasant or painful—goes by God first.

He works in every episode in our lives to produce a drama of grace.

He uses every brush stroke to paint the masterpiece of our life.

In His master plan, we’ll be shaped into the image of Christ.  

Our Heavenly Father plans moves on life’s chessboard.

The evil one can never checkmate the King of kings.

Behind the scenes, the Almighty directs the play.

Invisible to the audience, He is real to faith.

Jesus is the Savior of whatever is next.

Every sunrise, He is still in charge.

Not good luck—the good Lord.

Not accident—the Almighty.

Not fate—our Father.

Not chance—Christ.

“Yes, it was God who sent me here, not you!

He made me a counselor to Pharaoh—manager of his entire household and ruler over all Egypt.”

Genesis 45:8 NLT

 Almond

               Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 31 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

Many people talk about having good luck. Christians give credit to the good Lord.

“The superior man is quiet and calm, waiting for the appointments of Heaven,

while the mean man walks in dangerous paths, looking for lucky occurrences.”

- Tzesze (5^th century B.C.)

God is Sovereign—governing the universe, ruling and overruling all of life.

In His hands, even malicious intentions are tools to forge ultimate good.

Whatever gets to us—whether pleasant or painful—goes by God first.

He works in every episode in our lives to produce a drama of grace.

He uses every brush stroke to paint the masterpiece of our life.

In His master plan, we’ll be shaped into the image of Christ.  

Our Heavenly Father plans moves on life’s chessboard.

The evil one can never checkmate the King of kings.

Behind the scenes, the Almighty directs the play.

Invisible to the audience, He is real to faith.

Jesus is the Savior of whatever is next.

Every sunrise, He is still in charge.

Not good luck—the good Lord.

Not accident—the Almighty.

Not fate—our Father.

Not chance—Christ.

“Yes, it was God who sent me here, not you!

And he has made me a counselor to Pharaoh—manager of his entire household and ruler over all Egypt.”

Genesis 45:8 NLT

Johnny Almond

               Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 31 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)

As we journey through life, we frequently need forgiveness of sin and relief from guilt -- something only God can give.

“The quality of mercy is not strained;

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven upon the place beneath.

It is twice blessed -- It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes.”

- Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice

It God did not have a heart, we would not stand a chance.

If He corrected us in anger, we would be reduced to nothing.

If He took up arms against insurrection, we would be devastated.

If He dealt severely, we’d survive less time than dandelions in a windstorm.

To our great relief, between God’s pure holiness and unbending law is a mercy seat.

He is the Fountainhead of pity, with sole authority to extend clemency to condemned prisoners.

Guilt is a burden we cannot manage on our own—thankfully, God is far easier on us than we are on ourselves.

Attempt to cover sin, and He uncovers it to our dismay;

uncover it honestly before Him, and He covers it with Jesus’ blood.

Unworthiness makes us tremble at the thought of standing before God—

but freely forgiven by Christ, at His mercy, we can relax.

“May God Almighty give you mercy as you go before the man.”

Genesis 43:14 NLT

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 30 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)

As we journey through life, we frequently need forgiveness of sin and relief from guilt -- something only God can give.

“The quality of mercy is not strained;

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven upon the place beneath.

It is twice blessed -- It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes.”

- Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice

It God did not have a heart, we would not stand a chance.

If He corrected us in anger, we would be reduced to nothing.

If He took up arms against insurrection, we would be devastated.

If He dealt severely, we’d survive less time than dandelions in a windstorm.

To our great relief, between God’s pure holiness and unbending law is a mercy seat.

He is the Fountainhead of pity, with sole authority to extend clemency to condemned prisoners.

Guilt is a burden we cannot manage on our own—thankfully, God is far easier on us than we are on ourselves.

Attempt to cover sin, and He uncovers it to our dismay;

uncover it honestly before Him, and He covers it with Jesus’ blood.

Unworthiness makes us tremble at the thought of standing before God—

but freely forgiven by Christ, at His mercy, we can relax.

“May God Almighty give you mercy as you go before the man.”

Genesis 43:14 NLT

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Colonial Beach Baptist Church, Virginia

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

[This devotion based on/adapted from Day 30 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized  (copy & paste to browser for blog & book info)