Strength for today

Daisies and Climbing Blaze Rose

"As your days--so shall your strength be!" Deuteronomy 33:25

Here is a precious promise for a trying day! It belongs to every Christian who is traveling to the Celestial City. It provides for every part of life's journey; for every day--as each day may require.

It is especially suited to the dark days, the wintry days, and the trying days--when all our earthly props fail us; the days when our fellow man cannot help us.

Fellow pilgrim! Are you dispirited, depressed, and cast down? Are you looking back upon the past with sorrow--and forward into the future with fear? Cheer up! The Lord will not lay on you more than He will enable you to bear--nor will He allow any other to do so.

However weak you may feel in yourself,
however rough the road you may need to travel,
however heavy the burden you may have to carry--
God will supply you with sufficient strength for the day!

He has never allowed you to be crushed yet, though you may have staggered under some heavy burdens. He who has helped you in the past--is still your helper today. He will also help you in all the future. "As your days"--be they as troublesome as they may--"so shall your strength be."

Whether your day brings life or death, joy or trial--it does not matter. God will send you exactly what you need to pass through it! Do not look at your trials, do not dwell on your inability--but lay hold on the promises of God and seek His grace to exercise faith in Him.

Then let Satan suggest what he pleases, or the flesh object as it may--you will be able to say, "I will not fear; for as my day--so shall my strength be. He who has promised--will also fulfill His promise."

Blessed Lord, I praise You for this precious promise! Help, oh, help me to trust in it; and day by day as duty or trials may require--enable me to look to You and expect sufficient strength from You!

"On the day I called--You answered me; You increased strength within me!" Psalm 138:3

~James Smith "Comfort for Christians!")
~Daisies and Roses in the Pergola

Joyous In Suffering

 
We may learn to bear troubles submissively, but to rejoice in them is something which

to many seems impossible. But the grace of Christ is equal even to this strange 

task, enabling us to rejoice in our tribulations. Thousands of Christians have done

it. St. Paul himself did it. We remember his "songs in the night" at Philippi.
 
This is what Christian faith may always do. The secret of it is perfect trust in 

the will and love of God. None can rejoice in pain or loss who has not a settled 

confidence in the rightness of God's ways. Someone tells how a flute is made. Here 

is a piece of wood. It is solid and hard, and makes no sound. Then a workman takes 

it and cuts holes in it and makes a rift through it. It is by thus cutting as if

destroying it that it is made into a flute which gives forth sweet music. God 

seems ofttimes to be destroying His children by tribulations, but He is really 

preparing them to give forth sweet music.
 
J.R. Miller
 

 Note, It is the greatest comfort of the church to be made serviceable to the glory

of God, and to be as his garden in which he delights. (2.) He will make them

cheerful, and so give them hearts to rejoice. With the fruits of righteousness, 

joy and gladness shall be found therein; for the more holiness men have, and the 

more good they do, the more gladness they have. And where there is gladness, to

their satisfaction, it is fit that there should be thanksgiving, to God's honour;

for whatever is the matter of our rejoicing ought to be the matter of our thanks-

giving; and the returns of God's favour ought to be celebrated with the voice of 

melody, which will be the more melodious when God gives songs in the night, songs
 in the desert.

M. Henry Commentary

Isa 51:3 For the LORD shall comfort Zion: 
he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, 
and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness shall be found 
therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody. 
 

Meditation

And the LORD shall guide thee continually, 

and satisfy thy soul in drought, 

and make fat thy bones

 and thou shalt be like a watered garden, 

and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.

Isaiah 58:11

"My meditation of Him shall be sweet."

 Psalm 104:34

Someone has quipped, "He is so heavenly minded, he is of no earthly good." Perhaps that poor soul did not know God.
I smile to myself, thankful and reflective, as I water plants for  it is a reminder of my quiet time, remembering the years when I did not, and realizing now how restorative and nourishing it is. Without it, I languish like a wilted plant.

"The heavenly meditator has the happiest life in the world, and the most enriching commerce with the celestial Indies, from whence he returns laden with an unseen store of immortal joy, and spiritual consolation. As he continues to meditate on the great things of God, such amazing plenitudes are displayed before his eye, that he finds in the divine fullness, sufficient subjects for meditation through eternity itself. Meditation, like the spies sent from Israel in the wilderness, returns with a good account of the good land, presents some  of the fruits of paradise, and produces refreshing grapes pulled from the true VINE. Here  the weary soul retires to rest in the bosom of the promise, in the love of God, in spite of all surrounding troubles; and drinks at the river before the throne, which makes her forget her miseries, as waters that flow away. O the high estate of the sons of God in meditation!They walk in the fields of glory, associate with the angels of light, and hold communion with God himself! Thus having been in the mount with God, their soul is beautified; thus, their face shines, and their mind seems as if in heaven, nobly opposing the base practices of the men of the world. O my soul! while mortals are combating for crowns below, meditate on your crown above; view the beauties of the better country; ruminate on the happiness of the inhabitants there; think on the fullness of the heavenly glory; talk of the love of God, and dwell on the adorableexcellencies of the divine Redeemer. This work is its own reward, and assimilates the soul to "the bright and morning Star." Be ashamed henceforth to occupy yourself in meditating how toraise your fortune, how to make yourself famous, and how to plan your lot in the world; this last commit to God, and cast the rest away! But let him, whose favor is better than life, be the object of your love, and the subject of your meditations! Thus shall you begin heaven,  anticipate bliss, and prepare for eternity and glory!" 

  ~James Meikle, 1730-1799
 ~Photograph: Watering Can in the Garden

Prayer for Calm

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

Calm me, my God, and keep me calm,

While these hot breezes blow;

Be like the night-dew’s cooling balm

Upon earth’s fevered brow.

Calm me, my God, and keep me calm,

Soft resting on Thy breast;

Sooth me with holy hymn and psalm,

And bid my spirit rest.

Calm me, my God, and keep me calm;

Let Thine outstretchèd wing

Be like the shade of Elim’s palm

Beside her desert spring.

Yes, keep me calm, though loud and rude

The sounds my ear that greet,

Calm in the closet’s solitude,

Calm in the bustling street;

Calm in the hour of buoyant health,

Calm in my hour of pain;

Calm in my poverty or wealth

Calm in my loss or gain;

Calm in the sufferance of wrong,

Like Him Who bore my shame,

Calm ’mid the threatening, taunting throng

Who hate Thy holy Name;

Calm as the ray of sun or star

Which storms assail in vain;

Moving unruffled through earth’s war,

The eternal calm to gain.

Horatius Bonar 1857

Friendship

But if the while I think on thee, dear friend,
All losses are restored and sorrows end.
~William Shakespeare 

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. 

Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He'll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear
May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer
Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

Joseph M. Scriven (1819-1886)

The Blessing Of Quiet

 
"Every true Christian life needs its daily silent times, when all shall be still, when

the busy activity of other hours shall cease, and when the heart, in holy hush,

shall commune with God. One of the greatest needs in Christian life in these days is

more devotion. Ours is not an age of prayer so much as an age of work. The tendency 

is to action rather than to worship; to busy toil rather than to quiet sitting at the

Saviour's feet to commune with Him. The keynote of our present Christian life is 

consecration, which is understood to mean devotion to active service. On every hand 

we are incited to work. Our zeal is stirred by every inspiring incentive. The calls 

to duty come to us from a thousand earnest voices."

---

Communion with my Father,
In calm and quiet hour,
Is sweet and rich in blessings,
And Spirit’s gracious power;
He speaks in tones so gentle,
He hears my humblest prayer,
In secret of His presence
I feel my Father’s care.

O Father, Spirit, Savior,
Fill us with Thine own power;
O, lead Thy loving children
To seek the quiet hour.

When storms are fierce about me,
And sorrow’s billows roll,
I hear the Master gently
Speak peace unto my soul;
When heart is sore with anguish,
And eyes are dim with tears,
A quiet hour with Jesus
Will banish pain and fears.

Oh, leave life’s noise and turmoil,
And seek the quiet hour,
That He who sees in secret
May give thee spirit-power;
There find your strength in weakness,
And gird your armor on,
Then forth to life’s great conflict
Till victory is won.

George P. Beard

When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:6

 
J. R. Miller

Painting:  "Resting in the Garden" by Daniel Ridgway Kmight

Calm

Christian peace is the calm of the heart which is not dependent on any circumstances, and which no circumstances, however full of danger or alarm, can break. Its secret is, perfect trust in God. The lesson of peace is one that has to be learned in the school of life. It is not gotten by the changing of life's conditions, so as to hide one away beyond the reach of storm. Nor is it gained through the deadening of the feelings and sensibilities, so that life's pains and trials will no longer hurt the heart. This would be paying too great a price even for peace. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. It comes through the encircling of the life with God's own peace. "The peace of God shall guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus."

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds# through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things arejust, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

 (Philippians 4:7-9)

-J. R. Miller

Photograph:  This exquisite white Clematis was found growing beneath one of my heirloom rose bushes, the seed apparently dropped by a bird or born on the breeze.  I transplanted the little vine, recognizing the foliage as being that of a Clematis.  How humbling to receive such a gift . . .

A Pure Heart

"An honest, consistent, holy character--is a sermon all the week. The godly Christian--pure of heart and unspotted by the world--is the best preacher of the gospel. The revival which is most urgently needed--is a revival of practical godliness. Sunday preaching is not enough; we need more "sermons all through the week."

Let us go down to the core. The only basis of good character is a renewed heart--a heart in which Jesus Christ lives, a heart which is in the habit of obeying Christ's commandments. Such a man draws his motives of action from his deep, abiding love to Jesus. Up from the very roots--comes his daily devotion to those things which are pure and honest and lovely and of good report. Rooted into Christ, he is not easily shaken. He does not bend to trickery or yield to temptation. The world cannot move such a man. What does he care for its changing, frivolous fashions; his fashion is to do the will of his holy Master."  

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 12:1-2

(Theodore Cuyler, "Wayside Springs from the Fountain of Life" 1883)
Photograph:  The Iris are just starting to bloom!
The Iris has long been used as a symbol, stylized in the Fleur dis lis so often seen in the church, architecture and art, symbolizing purity. 

As We Think

Mom thinks I am rather impractical,  but "there is a method in my madness", 

as the old saying goes, for I have to walk quite a distance to the herb garden and 

pottager, which necessitates more exercise; but even better, I have to walk through the

perennial gardens and pergola to get there.  How nice is that? 

So I had to walk past these Primroses on this idyllic spring morning which I spent working in

the pottager, weeding, trimming the young espaliered pear trees

(which are coming along nicely); tilling; and planting Japanese Hulless Popcorn, Marigolds and

 Hyacinth Beans.

Now I planted the beans last year, picking the green beans for the table and enjoying 

pretty lavender-blue blossoms.  Unfortunately, I forgot to order more seed after a mouse 

got into my garden shed and, finding the drawer ajar where I store seed, commenced to 

gobble the entire lot!  However, much to my utter amazement, I found some little plants sprouting near 

where they had been planted last year; 

but what was more amazing is that these little seeds had been out in the freezing cold

all winter.  They were sprouting lying on the path and sending their tiny rootlets

down through the landscape fabric which lines the paths between the raised beds and 

is covered with woodshavings from my beloved's shop.

That gave me pause, as I pondered the seeds I cultivate.

The aphorism, "As a man thinketh in his heart so is he," (Proverbs 23:7a) not only embraces the whole

 of a man's being, but is so comprehensive as to reach out to every condition and circumstance of 

his life. A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his 

thoughts.
 
As the plant springs from, and could not be without, the seed, so every act of a man springs from 

the hidden seeds of thought, and could not have appeared without them. This applies equally to

 those acts called "spontaneous" and "unpremeditated" as to those which are deliberately executed.
 
Act is the blossom of thought, and joy and suffering are its fruits; thus does a man garner in the 

sweet and bitter fruitage of his own husbandry.
 
Thought in the mind hath made us. What we are By thought we wrought and built. If a man's mind Hath 

evil thoughts, pain comes on him as comes The wheel the ox behind . . . If one endure in purity of 

thought joy follows him as his own shadow - sure.

 
-James Allen "As a Man Thinketh" 

~Photograph:  Primroses in the Perennial Garden 

Not Lily-white . . .

 Cogita tecum, fortasse vitium de quo quereris, si te diligenter excusseris, in sinu invenies; inique publico irasceris crimini tuo-

-Reflect that perhaps the fault of which you complain, might, on a strict examination, be discovered in yourself; and that it would be unjust publicly to express indignation against your own crime.   ~Seneca, de Beneficiis.

Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. 6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.  Matthew 7:1-6
I was pondering this passage last night when I had something in my eye which I could not discern.  Thankfully it was gone when I awoke this morning to think on these things further. 

It is strange how oblivious we can be of our own faults and blemishes--and how clearly we can see those of other people! One old writer says: "Men are rather more apt to use a magnifying glass to behold the faults of others--than a mirror to behold their own." A man can see a little speck of dust in his neighbor's eye--while utterly unaware of the great plank in his own eye! He observes the most minute fault in his brother--while unconscious of his own far greater fault!

We would say that a plank in a man's eye would so blind him--that he could not see the speck in another's eye. As our Lord represents it, however--the man with the plank, is the very one who sees the speck and thinks himself competent to remove it!

So it is in morals. No man is so sharp at seeing a fault in another--as he who has the same or a similar fault of his own!
A vain man--is the first to detect the indications of vanity in another.
A bad-tempered person--is most apt to be censorious toward a neighbor who displays bad temper.
One with a sharp uncontrolled tongue--has the least patience with another whose speech is full of poisoned arrows.
A selfish man--discovers even specks of selfishness in others.
Rude people--are the very first to be hurt and offended by rudeness in a neighbor.

So it is always. If we are quick to perceive blemishes and faults in others--the probability is, that we have far greater blemishes and faults in ourselves! This truth ought to make us exceedingly careful in our judgments, and exceedingly modest in our expressions of censure--for we really are telling the world our own faults! It is wiser, as well as more in accordance with the spirit of Christ--for us to find lovely things in others, and to be silent regarding their faults!

~J.R. Miller, "Daily Bible Readings in the Life of Christ" 1890
Photograph:  Lily of the Nile, perhaps?  I need to look this up but it is in bloom now and has multiplied much to my delight!

The Garden of my Heart

Last evening as I walked through the sweet-scented, rain-drenched gardens, (returning with an arm load of rhubarb for sauce, my eyes scanned for weeds as insidious as those that might arise in my heart. Constant vigilance makes the job easier but often the problems arise from the common, aggressive plants quietly over-crowding the rare and choice.

This passage came to mind as I looked about me in wide-eyed wonder, my weary body and grateful heart yearning for my Beloved's good pleasure:

"I am come into my garden, my sister, my spouse."-Song of Solomon 5:1. 

"The heart of the believer is Christ's garden. He bought it with His precious blood, and He enters it and claims it as His own. A garden implies separation. It is not the open common; it is not a wilderness; it is walled around, or hedged in. Would that we could see the wall of separation between the church and the world made broader and stronger. It makes one sad to hear Christians saying, "Well, there is no harm in this; there is no harm in that," thus getting as near to the world as possible. Grace is at a low ebb in that soul which can even raise the question of how far it may go in worldly conformity.

A garden is a place of beauty, it far surpasses the wild uncultivated lands. The genuine Christian must seek to be more excellent in his life than the best moralist, because Christ's garden ought to produce the best flowers in all the world. Even the best is poor compared with Christ's deservings; let us not put Him off with withering and dwarf plants. The rarest, richest, choicest lilies and roses ought to bloom in the place which Jesus calls His own.

The garden is a place of growth. The saints are not to remain undeveloped, always mere buds and blossoms. We should grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Growth should be rapid where Jesus is the Husbandman, and the Holy Spirit the dew from above.

A garden is a place of retirement. So the Lord Jesus Christ would have us reserve our souls as a place in which He can manifest Himself, as He doth not unto the world.

O that Christians were more retired, that they kept their hearts more closely shut up for Christ! We often worry and trouble ourselves, like Martha, with much serving, so that we have not the room for Christ that Mary had, and do not sit at His feet as we should. The Lord grant the sweet showers of His grace to water His garden this day."

Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Time

Buttercups

bring back lots of memories! 

Remember putting a blossom under a friend's chin? The yellow reflection meant you liked  butter!
We picked armloads of Buttercups, Queen Anne's Lace and Daisies in the meadow down at the end of the old lane for the children's day programs at church and spent many an hour just wandering and dreaming of someday, someday . . . idling, picking daisies to remove petals one by one:  he loves me - he loves me not - he loves me- he loves me not.  We made garlands for our hair as we pondered that wondrous someday when . . .

Now is that someday and we simply must redeem the time (Eph 5:16) . . .

"Almighty God,

I adore Your infinite patience, which has not cut me off in the midst of my follies; 

I magnify Your wonderful goodness, 

which has spared me thus long.

  Let me no longer abuse that precious treasure - time, 

which you have allotted me as a proper season to work out my own salvation,

 and secure that happiness which is great in itself, and infinite in its duration.

Let me bid adieu to all those vain amusements,

 those trifling entertainments and sinful diversions, 

which have robbed me of many valuable hours, 

and endangered the loss of my immortal soul.

Let me no longer waste my time in ease and pleasure, in unprofitable studies, 

and more unprofitable conversation;

 but grant, that
by diligence and honesty in my calling,
by constancy and fervor in my devotions,
by moderation and temperance in my enjoyments,
by justice and charity in all my words and actions,
and by keeping a conscience void of offence to God and man-
I may be able to give a good account in the day of judgment, 

and be accepted in and through the merits of Jesus Christ, 

my only mediator and advocate.

Amen." 

Let me no longer waste my time 

Hannah More, "The Book of Private Devotion"
photo by Bruce Lowery

Hush . . .

Study to be quiet. (1 Thess. 4:11)

 Beloved! this is our spirit’s deepest need.

 It is thus that we can learn to know God. 

It is thus that we receive spiritual refreshment and nutriment. 

It is thus that we are nourished and fed. 

It is thus that we receive the Living Bread.

 It is thus that our very bodies are healed,

 and our spirits drink in the life of our risen Lord,

 and we go forth to life’s conflicts and duties

 like the flower that has drunk in,

 through the shades of the night,

 the cool and crystal drops of dew.

 But the dew never falls on a stormy night, 

so the dews of His Grace never come to the restless soul.
 
Mrs. Charles Cowman 

~Photo by B. W. Lowery 

Life in the Garden

Do you ever wonder what is going on in your garden when you aren't there?  Here are some glimpses:

http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/xHkq1edcbk4?rel=0

A Mother's Prayer

MOTHER'S PRAYER

Lord, for my children I would pray
That they may seek Thee every day
Through life, with all its storms and stress
Its sorrows, grief and bitterness.

In disappointments fly to Thee
For comfort, strength and sympathy.
And never find a truer friend,
But love and serve Thee to the end.

That they may take Thee as their Guide,
To lead them all the way beside;
Their Counsellor when troubled o'er
The many problems at youth's door.

If overwhelmed by dark despair,
Oh teach them how through faith and prayer
To crush this subtle devil's snare
And rest within Thy loving care.

For them no dizzy heights of fame
I crave, nor great and worldly gain,
In humble service let them aim
To spread the honor of Thy name.

That in this dark world may they shine
Their lives reflect Love Divine
Their object now their pleasure then,
Obedience to Thy will.
Amen.

Author Unknown

My Dear Mother

God made you mine, dear Mother

To cherish on this earth.

He chose you from all others

To give me humble birth.

He gave you hands to labor

In pure unselfish deeds.

He fashioned you with purpose

To satisfy my needs.



When childish fears beset me

And tears were close at hand,

God gave you arms to comfort,

A heart to understand.

God made you mine dear Mother,

Though brief your earthly stay.

I shall retain your mem'ry

Forever and a day!

Lorraine Good

Be Still ~

"Be still--and know that I am God!" Psalm 46:10

This is God's message to His people, even during the most terrible convulsions of nature, the most cruel wars, and the most painful trials! The Lord reigns and works, even in the most dreadful circumstances.

The Lord is constantly doing His will, and accomplishing His purposes--and He never forgets His promises.

Be childlike. Run to your Father's arms and nestle in His bosom! Realize safety in your Father's love and power. He will tenderly . . .
  hold you in the hollow of His hand,
  hide you under His wings, and
  carry you in His bosom as the shepherd does the lamb.

"Be still," for though painful at present--your trial will soon be over. Know that God is supreme and works all things after the counsel of His own will. Know that God never loses sight of you, or forgets your frame and your weakness. Exercise patience, relieve your burdened heart by prayer--and wait in full expectation of a blessing.

As the darkest cloud, often bears the most fruitful shower--so the darkest circumstances, often usher in the choicest mercies. Only . . .
  yield yourself to God,
  keep close to the loving heart of God,
  and submit to the will of God.
Then you will be able to . . .
  carry any cross,
  bear any trial, or
  endure any affliction!

Be silent, be calm, be still--the Lord rules as King forever!

Do not complain--for it will displease the Lord.
Do not murmur--for it will grieve Him.
Do not fear--for it will dishonor Him.

Instead, be still--for your safety is provided for.
Be still--for your needs shall be supplied.
Be still--for all things shall work together for your good.
Be still--for God bids you, and all will end well.

Take me into Your nearness, dear Lord, and help me to be still. Calm my foolish fears and my fearful imaginations. In all of life, help me, O Lord, to be still.

~James Smith "Comfort for Christians!"

Why? Oh Why?

Most, if not all, of us ponder the whys and wherefores of life, wondering why things happen as they do.  We think we don't deserve this or that, be it positive or negative, and often feel resentment, dismay, anger, discouragement and more.  Why me?

"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised!" Job 1:21

"O my Father, let me feel, even amid the troublous changes of life, that what I am apt to call painful vicissitudes--are the sovereign decrees and allotments of Your infinite wisdom!

Let me rejoice that every bitter drop in the 'cup of life'--is appointed by my Heavenly Father! May I submissively drink it, saying, "May Your will be done!"

What I cannot now comprehend--be it mine to wait the disclosures of that blessed morning when, standing at the luminous portals of Heaven, I shall joyfully acknowledge that, "You have done all things well!"

I look forward to that time when all Your inscrutable dealings will be unfolded, when inner meanings and purposes now undiscerned by the eye of sense--will be brought to light, and all discovered to be full of infinite love! Other refuges may fail--but I am as secure in You, as everlasting love and wisdom and power can make me!

Blessed Jesus! I would seek to cleave closer and closer to Your cross! May I follow You, O Lamb of God--wherever You see fit to lead me. May I never feel as if I would wish one jot or tittle regarding me to be altered--when the reins of universal empire are in Your hands!"

John MacDuff  "Evening Incense"  (1856)

Alone with God the world forbidden, 
Alone with Him, O blest retreat! 
Alone with God and in Him hidden, 
To hold with Him communion sweet.
 -JSW
 

Nearer

Those words,

 "daily nearer God," 

have an inexpressible charm for me.

I long for such nearness to Him 

that all other objects shall fade into comparative insignificance;

 so that to have a thought, a wish, a pleasure apart from Him, 

shall be impossible. 

~Elizabeth Prentiss

Photograph:  This Iris from which, according to my dear neighbor, the Orris Root is derived, was a very special gift from her many years ago. It has just come into bloom this past week. 

According to Mountain Rose Herbs, "It is also known as Iris germanica, Iris pallida. (Iris florentina is a variety of Iris germanica.), Flag, Bearded Iris, Fleur-de-lis, and Garden Iris.

The iris is a group of plants known for their beautiful blooms and their adaptability to an astonishing variety of growing conditions. In ancient times the iris was a symbol of power and majesty used as the original scepter. The orris is a group of two species of European iris, cultivated in the region near Florence and sold as "ghiaggiuolo." The rhizomes, resembling ginger, are dug up in August, stripped of their rootlets and bark, and then dried until they have a chalky appearance. Dried orris root smells like violets. It is used primarily as a base for natural toothpastes, and as a fixative in perfumes to enhance other aromas. Powdered orris root lends a pleasant scent to freshly laundered linens and to potpourri. It also can be used as a snuff to relieve sinus headache and as a stabilizer in cosmetics. Orris root is extremely "puckery" if chewed fresh. It must be dried to be palatable. Drying also concentrates its aromatic essential oils."

Come . . .

 

You said You'd come and share all my sorrows,
You said You'd be there for all my tomorrows;
I came so close to sending You away,
But just like You promised You came there to stay;
I just had to pray!

And Jesus said, "Come to the water, stand by My side,
I know you are thirsty, you won't be denied;
I felt ev'ry teardrop when in darkness you cried,
And I strove to remind you that for those tears I died."

Your goodness so great I can't understand,
And, dear Lord, I know that all this was planned;
I know You're here now, and always will be,
Your love loosed my chains and in You I'm free;
But Jesus, why me?

And Jesus said, "Come to the water, stand by My side,
I know you are thirsty, you won't be denied;
I felt ev'ry teardrop when in darkness you cried,
And I strove to remind you that for those tears I died."

Jesus, I give You my heart and my soul,
I know that without God I'd never be whole;
Savior, You opened all the right doors,
And I thank You and praise You from earth's humble shores;
Take me, I'm Yours.

And Jesus said, "Come to the water, stand by My side,
I know you are thirsty, you won't be denied;
I felt ev'ry teardrop when in darkness you cried,
And I strove to remind you that for those tears I died."

~Author Unknown
~Photograph:  Daffodil (What a thrill it is to pick a huge, fragrant bouquet of these.  I will never forget the first time I did just that.  It was at college when a friend and I had gone for a drive, happening by an old arch bridge next to an abandoned farm by which a stream gurgled over some small waterfalls.  There were large circles of daffodils in full bloom!!  I remember standing by the stream in wonderment.)

Awake! (A note to myself . . .)

Professing Christians, Awake!
by Asahel Nettleton

 

"Now it is high time to awake out of sleep."   Romans 13:11

The language of this text is borrowed from natural sleep, in which a person is in a great measure unaware of what is happening around him but life remains in the body. This condition is applied to Christians who have grown insensitive to divine things, they sleep, but life remains in their souls. In particular, the exhortation is for those who find themselves in a state of spiritual slumber to shake off their drowsiness and awake to spiritual realities.

Signs of Spiritual Slumber

1. Sleeping Christians allow personal ease to compete with spiritual duty. Religion is the great business of the Christian's life. It imposes on him many responsibilities that are in painful opposition to his fleshly desires. However, to neglect spiritual duties for the sake of personal comfort is to indulge in spiritual slothfulness. Great care must be taken to fight this natural tendency toward laziness with regard to spiritual things. For this reason, the Scripture instructs Christians to encourage one another daily 'lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin' (Heb. 3:13).

Avoiding reproach is a common way Christians shirk their godly purpose in the world. It is easy to live quietly as long as you will not disturb your fellow sinner with a reminder of his sin. Ignoring the sinful behavior of others requires no effort, and thousands of professing Christians resign themselves to rest in a state of passivity. Whole churches often shut their mouths in silence in the name of charity or goodwill, but in so doing they actually display an awful indifference to the souls of men.

2. Sleeping Christians are no longer deeply affected by divine things. In this frame of mind, it is no wonder that Christians regularly attend the house of God but soon forget the instruction they receive. Although they once saw the glory of God in the face of Christ, now they walk in darkness. Where once they were stirred by a deep sense of the worth of souls and could weep over perishing sinners, now they can endure the sight of transgressors almost without emotion.

Their lack of interest in spiritual things is further manifested by their conversation. At one time, they spoke often of eternal matters, but now all their attention is engrossed with the world. They converse with ease about the temporal issues of life but have almost nothing to say about the great things of eternity. When they do speak of heavenly themes, it is in a dull and lifeless manner. The weight of eternal realities does not stir their soul, and thus they talk like a person in sleep.

3. Sleeping Christians are reluctant to pray secretly. Prayer has been properly described as the breath of the Christian. When a Christian continues in a state of prayerlessness for a prolonged period, it is a sign that he is asleep. If not shortly awakened from this breathless state, it is reasonable to wonder whether such a person is actually spiritually dead.

Motivations for Christians to Awake

1. Consider the time. Gospel light has risen upon us, and those who do not open their eyes to this light will remain in eternal darkness and despair. How can you sleep when the light of heaven is shining upon you? It is no time for sleep, because the day of salvation is a day that will be witnessed for eternity. The great business of this day calls loudly for you to awake.

Think, my brethren! Have you nothing to do for yourselves in preparation for eternity? Have you no sins to repent of and no evil propensities to mortify? Are your evidences of grace bright enough? Do you love God with all your heart? Are you perfectly conformed to God's holy law? In short, are you willing to die as you are? If you have anything to do for yourselves, it is high time to awake out of sleep.

2. Parents, consider your children. Are they all securely within the safety of the covenant? Do you pray with them and for them? Have you taught them that they are sinners in need of new birth? Are you urging them to remember their Creator in the days of their youth? Were you to depart with one of your children today, could you rest satisfied that you have done your duty? Have you not one more word of instruction, of counsel, or of warning for your children before you meet them at the bar of God? If so, then it is time for you to awaken to your duty to order your home.

3. Consider the activity of unbelievers. The men of this world shame us by their conduct. They rise up early and sit up late. They plan and execute. Labor, fatigue, and hardship are nothing to them if they can but collect a little of this world before they leave it. They are laying up treasure on earth. And will you not be as earnest to lay up for yourselves treasure that will endure in heaven? Do you not feel reproved by their conduct to think that the children of this world are wiser in their generation than the children of light?

4. Consider the power of your enemy. My brethren, you are on the field of battle against the prince of darkness. The malice of evil legions is directed against the Redeemer's kingdom in this world. Satan is already in possession of the hearts of all wicked men. While you sleep, he is sowing tares and destroying about us. Snares and temptations are laid thick around you, and unless you are awake, you will certainly be ignorant of his devices. I would blow the trumpet and sound the alarm: Cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light!

5. Consider that sinners are perishing. Your life and example will contribute either to their salvation or to their destruction. It is a fact that one ungodly professor of Christianity does more to prevent the conversion of sinners than many infidels. Brethren, are heaven and hell mere fables? If they are eternal realities, how can you remain silent or indifferent about them? If there be one impenitent sinner among you who is in danger of going to that place of eternal torment, can you sleep?

Come, then, you that know the Lord and keep not silent, 'if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand' (Ezek. 33:8). There is a dreadful storm of divine wrath coming upon the world of the ungodly. Therefore, it is high time to awake from slumber because 'their damnation slumbereth not' (2 Pet. 2:3).

6. Consider the time that has already passed. How many months have you been asleep? How many years have you slept in God's vineyard? Would you still continue sleeping away the day of salvation? With some, the sun has already passed its midway point and is now hastening its rapid descent. 'Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light' (John 12:35). Delay not, for 'the night cometh, when no man can work' (John 9:4).

7. Consider the glorious future that awaits you. You who have long traversed the wilderness on your way to Zion, your struggles for eternal life will have an end. You who have long labored, prayed, and groaned to be delivered from the bondage of sin, 'look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh' (Luke 21:28). This night you may wake up amid the song of angels, and a crown of glory may be placed on your head. Awake, then, and behold the glorious dawn of a bright new day!

8. Finally, consider the great danger of being deceived. A genuine Christian can never sleep sound without being disturbed. He inevitably will become frightened and wake up alarmed about his own condition. However, there are those who remain sound asleep and live at ease in Zion. They neither weep for their sins nor rejoice in the glory of God. Their hope of heaven is really only a pleasant dream while meanwhile they sink further into spiritual deception.

The Christian church is a net that gathers of every kind. Remember that ten virgins professed to be followers of Christ but only five were ready for the bridegroom. Many who now commune on earth will never meet in heaven. Many who now appear to us to be real Christians will, no doubt to our surprise, be found on the left hand of Christ, 'for many are called, but few are chosen' (Matt. 22:14).

Sadly, the sinner who has professed religion with a false hope can hardly be driven to give it up. However, it is far better to destroy such hope and for the person to conclude that he is lost than for him to awake too late. 'Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh . . . : lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping' (Mark 13:35-36). At midnight the cry will be made. Then there will be a great confusion, for thousands will be deceived. Therefore, 'let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall' (1 Cor. 10:12).

These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. (Rev. 3:1-3)

Daybook/Weekly Journal.

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...
Cloudy but warming up and very, very green.

I am thinking...
hmmmmmmmmmm . . . .

I am thankful...
My wonderful friends and family.

In the kitchen...
Just put together a scalloped potato casserole with ham and will soon run out to the garden for salad greens.

I am wearing...
Pale yellow cotton turtleneck, charcoal grey skirt, tights and flats, hair up.  Added a black sweater and a batik silk scarf with black, gold, pale yellow colors when I went out earlier this morning.

I am creating...
More Thyme.  :-)

I am going...
To broadcast thyme seed in  the bed which I recently dug out which will create a lovely scented memory when walked on. 

I am wondering...
How my neighbor is who went to the hospital this morning.

I am reading...
Just a myriad of things, mostly of a spiritual nature.

I am hoping...
To work in the gardens this afternoon when the sun comes out.

I am looking forward to...
Edging the flower beds as it looks so neat and is much easier to care for.

I am learning
Patience.

Around the house...
Noticing the aroma of the bouquet of pale lavender early phlox, a very old variety I found here.

I am pondering...
If the baby turkeys which have been strolling about our lawns will soon move elsewhere.  I hope so!  Turkeys have decimated our gardens and fruit trees in the past.

A favorite quote for today...
"Half past kissing time . . . time to kiss again!"  ~ Grandpa J.

One of my favorite things...
My beloved!  I have to smile for I used to look at his great grandfather's photo, hoping that someday he would look kinda like that and now he looks even better!

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Planning to peruse greenhouses for plants on Saturday and do lunch with dear daughter/s.  Last night we went to our granddaughter's spring concert and then out for supper.  It was wonderful!  She plays first chair in the clarinet section and has such  beautiful, rich tone.

A peek into my day...
A basket of homemade rolls, a favourite around here.

The host site:  http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com

Songs in the Night

Have you ever listened for the nearly imperceptible sound of a falling petal?  it

saddens us to see them fall, the beauty seemingly gone, but it is a necessary step

toward new life.  We cannot bear fruit until the flowers have bloomed and dropped, 

the bee having come and gone. 

We may learn to bear troubles submissively, but to rejoice in them is something which

to many seems impossible. But the grace of Christ is equal even to this strange task,

enabling us to rejoice in our tribulations. Thousands of Christians have done it. 

St. Paul himself did it. We remember his "songs in the night" at Philippi.
 
This is what Christian faith may always do. The secret of it is perfect trust in the 

will and love of God. None can rejoice in pain or loss who has not a settled 

confidence in the rightness of God's ways.  

~J. R. Miller 

Look from the Top

Cast Your Burdens Upon God
"Look from the top" (Song of Solomon 4:8).

Crushing weights give the Christian wings. It seems like a contradiction in terms, but it is a blessed truth. David out of some bitter experience cried: "Oh, that I had wings like a dove! Then would I fly away, and be at rest" (Ps. 55:6). But before he finished this meditation he seems to have realized that his wish for wings was a realizable one. For he says, "Cast thy burden upon Jehovah, and he will sustain thee."

The word "burden" is translated in the Bible margin, "what he (Jehovah) hath given thee." The saints' burdens are God-given; they lead him to "wait upon Jehovah," and when that is done, in the magic of trust, the "burden" is metamorphosed into a pair of wings, and the weighted one "mounts up with wings as eagles. --Sunday School Times

One day when walking down the street,
On business bent, while thinking hard
About the "hundred cares" which seemed
Like thunder clouds about to break
In torrents, Self-pity said to me:
"You poor, poor thing, you have too much
To do. Your life is far too hard.
This heavy load will crush you soon."

A swift response of sympathy
Welled up within. The burning sun
Seemed more intense. The dust and noise
Of puffing motors flying past
With rasping blast of blowing horn
Incensed still more the whining nerves,
The fabled last back-breaking straw
To weary, troubled, fretting mind.

"Ah, yes, 'twill break and crush my life;
I cannot bear this constant strain
Of endless, aggravating cares;
They are too great for such as I."
So thus my heart condoled itself,
"Enjoying misery," when lo!
A "still small voice" distinctly said,
"Twas sent to lift you--not to crush."

I saw at once my great mistake.
My place was not beneath the load
But on the top! God meant it not
That I should carry it. He sent
It here to carry me. Full well
He knew my incapacity
Before the plan was made. He saw
A child of His in need of grace

And power to serve; a puny twig
Requiring sun and rain to grow;
An undeveloped chrysalis;
A weak soul lacking faith in God.
He could not help but see all this
And more. And then, with tender thought
He placed it where it had to grow--
Or die. To lie and cringe beneath

One's load means death, but life and power
Await all those who dare to rise above.
Our burdens are our wings; on them
We soar to higher realms of grace;  

Without them we must roam for aye
On planes of undeveloped faith,
(For faith grows but by exercise in circumstance impossible).  

Oh, paradox of Heaven. The load
We think will crush was sent to lift us
Up to God! Then, soul of mine,

Climb up! for naught can e'er be crushed
Save what is underneath the weight.
How may we climb! By what ascent
Shall we surmount the carping cares
Of life! Within His word is found
The key which opes His secret stairs;
Alone with Christ, secluded there,
We mount our loads, and rest in Him.
--Miss Mary Butterfield

Photograph:  Star Magnolia

Miracles!

I believe a leaf of grass is no less than the journey-work of
the stars,

And the pismire is equally perfect, and a grain of sand, and
the. egg of the wren,

And the tree-toad is a chef-d'oeuvre for the highest,

And the running blackberry would adorn the parlors of
heaven,

And the narrowest hinge in my hand puts to scorn all machinery,

And the cow crunching with depressed head surpasses any
statue,

And a mouse is miracle enough to stagger sextillions of infidels.

Walt Whitman From " Leaves of Grass "

True Friendship

Ahhhh . . . The fragrance of true friendship is even sweeter than that of the rose.

"To be a good friend, to make real friendships, we need to take specific actions and make them a regular part of our daily lives.

A true friend listens well, attentively and lets the other person know his/her willingness to try and understand him/her. The process of listening requires sensitivity and insight, to see beyond the words spoken and uncover hidden feelings.

Being a true friend requires honesty, which at times, means giving and accepting criticism. However, we must be careful not to criticize harshly or embarrass a friend in public.

Being a true friend requires us to admit to mistakes and say, "I was wrong, forgive me."

Being a true friend requires us to be there for another sharing not only the happy and successful moments but the moments of pain and tears.

Being a true friend means realizing that there may be times to step back and keep silent -- just to be there without intruding.

Ralph Waldo Emerson offered the best advice about true friendship: "The only way to have a friend is to be one."'
~Jacob Friedman
 

"Old friends, old scenes, will lovelier be,
As more of Heaven in each we see,
Some softening gleam of love and prayer
Shall dawn on every cross and care.

As for some clear familiar strain
Untired we ask, and ask again,
Ever, in its melodious store,
Finding a spell unheard before;-

Such is the bliss of souls serene,
When they have sworn and steadfast mean,
Counting the cost in all t'espy
Their God, in all themselves deny."
~Keble

Happy or Wretched?

"Everyone carries in himself the sources of his own happiness or wretchedness. 

Circumstances have really very little to do with our inner experiences. 

It matters little in the determination of one's degree of enjoyment

 whether he live in a cottage or a palace. 

It is self, after all,

 that in largest measure gives the colour to our skies,

 and the tone to the music we hear.

 A happy heart sees rainbows and brilliance everywhere, 

even in darkest clouds, 

and hears sweet strains of song even amid the loudest wailing of the storm; 

and a sad heart, unhappy and discontented,

 sees spots in the sun,

 specks in the rarest fruits, 

and something with which to find fault in the most perfect of God's works,

 and hears discords and jarring notes in the heavenliest music."
 
J. R. Miller 
Photograph:  Blue Lace Hydrangea (a special gift from my sweet neighbor

A Sweet Fragrance

Ever wonder what people will remember about you or what you might leave those you care for?  Our lives ought to be like a sweet fragrance which will quietly leave a special, beautiful impression  Our prayers, God tells us, are like incense.  It has been said that prayer is the most powerful, loving thing we can do for anyone.  Even though we can't see them or know what is accomplished through them, our prayers are a rich legacy.

"The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him"―(Proverbs 20:7).

Anxiety about our family is natural, but we shall be wise if we turn it into care about our own character. If we walk before the LORD in integrity, we shall do more to bless our descendants than if we bequeathed them large estates. A father's holy life is a rich legacy for his sons.

The upright man leaves his heirs his example, and this in itself will be a mine of true wealth, How many men may trace their success in life to the example of their parents!

He leaves them also his repute. Men think better of us as the sons of a man who could be trusted, the successors of a tradesman of excellent repute, Oh, that all young men were anxious to keep up the family name!

Above all, he leaves his children his prayers and the blessing of a prayer-hearing God, and these make our offspring to be favored among the sons of men. God will save them even after we are dead. Oh, that they might be saved at once!

Our integrity may be God's means of saving our sons and daughters. If they see the truth of our religion proved by our lives, it may be that they will believe in Jesus for themselves. LORD, fulfill this word to my household!

~Charles Haddon Spurgeon
~Photograph:  The Crab Apple Blossoms have come a second time, the first ones frosted, uch a wondrous, fragrant surprise!

Peace . . .

We bless thee for thy peace, O God, 

Deep as the boundless sea, 

It falls like sunshine on the road,

 Of those who trust in thee; 

That peace which suffers and is strong, 

Trusts where it cannot see:

 Deems not the trial way too long, 

But leaves the end with thee.

Be calm in arguing: for fierceness makes

 Error a fault, and truth discourtesy. 

Why should I feel another man's mistakes 

More than his sicknesses or poverty?

 In love I should; but anger is not love, 

Nor wisdom, neither; therefore gently move.

—Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

 

Weekly Journal/Daybook

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...
It's so GREEN!

I am thinking...
What a difference the "April Showers" made last night! 

I am thankful...
For the Joy that fills my heart to overflowing.

In the kitchen...
Just put together a new recipe for rhubarb crumble with the first cutting of the season.  

You dice about four cups of rhubarb into a casserole and sprinkle with a cup of sugar mixed with four tablespoons of flour.  Then you mix 1/2 oatmeal, 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup flour together until crumbly and sprinkle over the top.  Bake about 40 minutes.  Easy and this will be so good warm from the oven with a scoop of ice cream!

I am wearing...
Black straight skirt with black tights,  a plum cotton vee neck sweater, plum Privo ballet flats and a black jade bead necklace; hair is up as usual.

I am creating...
Have lots of ivy slips and geranium slips rooting for  outdoor pots.  

I am going...
To wash windows tomorrow, I think.  It is one chore I rue as we have very old glass, some over two hundred years old, which is imperfect and difficult to clean.

I am wondering...
If we will get any more snow or freezes.

I am reading...
Mostly my Bible, devotionals and poetry.

I am hoping...
To pick a bouquet of lilacs later this week!

I am looking forward to...
Having fresh flowers on the table again.

I am learning
Downloaded iBird on my Kindle and am enjoying learning to identify some more of the many, many different birds we have about us.  

Around the house...
Just love to wander through our dear old home and remember.

I am pondering...
Whether to plant grass or some low growing flowering

 plant where I dug out the perennials in the front garden last week.  There are three beds:  a round one in the center filled with fragrant standard hostas around the perimeter and red cannas around the sundial; then a grass walk around which was a second bed which I removed' and then a bed around the inside of the hedge.  The garden is about 32 x 32.  Ideas welcome . . .Thyme might be nice or maybe Ajuga.

A favorite quote for today...

When it drizzles and drizzles, If we cheerfully smile, We can make the weather, By working together, As fair as we choose in a little while. For who will notice that clouds are drear If pleasant faces are always near, And who will remember that skies are gray If he carries a happy heart all day?
 ~author unknown

One of my favorite things...
Long drives on meandering back roads to nowhere.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Need to prune and tie the espaliered pear trees.

Around the gardens...
The Daisies are starting to bloom already, along with the various early Phlox, Mertensia, Perennial Geranium, Lilacs, Lamium, Ajuga, Hyacinths, and more . . .

A peek into my day:

A bluebird has been serenading me in the morning, sitting just outside my bedroom window!  Cardinals have been coming to the feeder that I just put right outside the kitchen window, along with other songbirds.  The feeder is hidden betweeen a bush and the window where I can view them nicely but they can feel protected. Such beautiful creatures!

host site:  http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com

Devout Confidence

  Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
 

 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

 Psalm 73:25-26

Painting:  "Brittany Girl" by Daniel Ridgway Knight

Practicing Moral Purity

Seems to be getting more and more difficult to guard one's heart.  Came across this

quote last night which I thought was wise advice.

“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” - 2 Corinthians 10:5

Christians . . . have asked me what specific things they can do to practice moral purity. Three of those are: 

• -First, watch the crowd they hang out with. Choose their friends wisely (see Proverbs 13:20).
• ¨ Second, guard what they put into their minds from books, movies, and music (see Psalm 101:3a, Proverbs 6:27).
• ¨ Lastly, control their thought life (see Proverbs 23:7a, Philippians 4:8). The thought is the father of the deed. Someone has well said, "We cannot keep the birds from flying over our heads, but we can keep them from making a nest in our hair."

Walk with God today as you never have before. Guard your heart (Proverbs 4:23, Ephesians 5:3-5). Make a covenant with your eyes (Job 31:1). Set a guard over your lips (Psalm 141:3). Take charge of your thought life: 

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

 ~A. Rogers