(Psalm 19:1-2 NCV)
Almost every morning since the first of January this year, I’ve spent the first forty-five minutes to an hour studying and meditating on Scripture. As I converse with Jesus about his words, he frequently gives me a poem or song lyrics. This is the best part of my day.
When my husband hears me singing, he knows I’m ready for breakfast. As we are eating, I share my new song or poem with him and welcome his insights. After hearing and discussing his viewpoint, I often write additional verses or improve what I’ve written.
It’s a challenge to do so, yet my desire is to continue the Jesus-and-me dialog throughout the day. This is how I find strength and courage. This how I gain and regain clarity about my purpose in life and how I receive direction for the day. This is what keeps me from taking pleasurable but distracting side trips.
As I silently or openly include Jesus in my conversations with others, he gives me insight and wisdom in my responses. God said to Isaiah, ” my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55: 8-9). God’s thoughts are definitely more profound than mine.
If I want to write or speak words which reflect the heart and mind of God, I must listen to the Spirit of Jesus. If I want to say things which have true worth, I must dialog with him. Amazingly, he then can then display his love and power through me.
The following poem flows out of my meditation on Ephesians 3:16 and 1 Timothy 1:17.
Jesus is Worthy of All Praise Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise. In him, all perfection is displayed. He shows those with faith-enlightened eyes The glory and power of God on high; We are strengthened in our inner selves By the love of Christ. He is our help. When facing hardship, our choice is firm; Held in his arms, we suffer no harm. Though on this earth, we experience loss, We rejoice, knowing it’s worth the cost. God comes through with his abundant grace; How immeasurably good are all his ways! Immeasurably wise are all his words. How blessed we are when we have heard And closely followed the Spirit’s voice; God gives to us unimagined joys. Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise. In him, all perfection is displayed. Through those who have faith-enlightened eyes, He displays the love and power of God on high. Jane Ault 6/17/19
Jane, thanks for the encouragement, again. My heart lifted in anticipation when I saw your email. The picture of your time with your husband at breakfast delights me. Singing for your breakfast!
Keep it up!
Jean, your words of encouragement lift my heart up! Thanks so much.
Thank you Jane for sharing your 45 minutes with us. It is always something we need to hear. I like singing out of an old Mennonite hymnal but revise the tunes to ones I remember. It has shaped notes! I also like to follow the Dick Eastman pattern of prayer time “The hour that changes the world”. Blessings on you and John.
You are welcome, Rich. I’m sure that the old Mennonite hymnal you use has some inspiring and powerful hymn lyrics. I love your idea of revising the tunes which are in it. Thank you for mentioning Dick Eastman’s book. Another good one of his is “Living and Praying in Jesus’ Name”. Blessings on you and your family.
Thanks, Jane. I needed to read this this morning.
I love your poems. Do you think you will publish a book of them?
Thanks for your encouragement to publish more of my poems, Sandy. I’m considering it.