It’s a Beautiful Morning!

March 9th, 2014 dsisler

We had a quick system move through Colorado on Friday. It began with rain and then changed to snow. It was beautiful to see the large snowflakes falling. But the real beauty is what was discovered when the clouds rolled out.

 

IMAG1489The mountains appeared, with white capped peaks and a gorgeous blue sky. They were truly breathtaking! I’m so thankful to live in this beautiful state!

 

Today I’d like to share a post from the archives. The song “Shine Jesus Shine” has been one of my favorites since I heard it. It has a special meaning to me because of where I’ve sung this tune…in SE Asia! Yes, my team and I sang this song one morning during our devotions and since then, I’ve been pretty attached to it.

 

I am working toward another trip to this beautiful land. If you’d like more information on how you can join me on this journey, just let me know and I’d be happy to share the details.

 

However, I would appreciate prayer for myself and for those who might hear God’s call to join me. Please pray that they would be attuned to God’s voice. Pray that they would be willing to say “yes.” Pray that they would not hesitate (we need to make the decision on this trip by April 1). Pray that God would show up in each detail making it difficult to believe “it’s not for them.” Pray that I might be an instrument for God to use in any way He chooses.

 

“Shine Jesus Shine” warms my heart. It makes me smile. It reminds me to be grateful for the Light that I have accepted in my heart. But it also reminds me that there is a dark world out there that needs God’s Light as well. I prayerfully ask that God would move in the dark recesses of this world and bring forth His glorious Light.

 

“Shine Jesus Shine.”

 

“Shine Jesus Shine” – Musical Musings in March

 

I am down to the last two songs to share with you this month. And I must say, just because they are the last two doesn’t mean they are my least favorites. No, the last two songs thrill my heart each time I hear them. I stop and sing them if I’m moving about. I think of Jesus when they are playing and that is the main reason I love these songs.

 

“Shine Jesus Shine” brings light to this dark world. It shares the hope that we receive through Jesus Christ and it shares His truth that brings eternal life.

 

There are a couple of phrases that touch me each time I sing them. “Search me, try, me consume all my darkness” is one. This of course reminds me of the passage in Psalm 139:23, but it’s the last portion that really makes me think.

 

Perhaps there are some dark areas in my life that need to be enlightened. Okay, I know there are! So yes, Jesus, shine to those areas and brighten up those corners. Take away the darkness. All of it. Consume the darkness! What a prayer!

 

The other line that catches my attention is “Mirrored here may our lives tell Your story.” You’ve probably heard the phrase, “I may be the only sermon someone ever hears.” As a believer of Jesus, if my life doesn’t mirror Him, I could be turning someone away from Jesus by my actions or my words. My life must tell His story.

 

The Apostle Paul teaches us to live as children of light in Ephesians. He also teaches that we are to shine as stars in Philippians. Listen to his words. “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the world of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.” (Philippians 2:14-16 – NIV)

 

So today I share “Shine Jesus Shine” with you. Sing it. Believe it. Live it.

 

Lord the light of Your love is shining
In the midst of the darkness shining
Jesus Light of the world shine upon us
Set us free by the truth You now bring us
Shine on me shine on me

 

(Chorus)

 

Lord I come to Your awesome presence
From the shadows into Your radiance
By the blood I may enter Your brightness
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness
Shine on me, shine on me

 

(Chorus)

 

As we gaze on Your kingly brightness
So our faces display Your likeness
Ever changing from glory to glory
Mirrored here may our lives tell Your story
Shine on me shine on me

 

Chorus:
Shine Jesus shine
Fill this land with the Father’s glory
Blaze Spirit blaze
Set our hearts on fire
Flow river flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth Your word
Lord and let there be light[i]

 

And if you’d like to listen to this wonderful worship song, here’s a link.

 

I pray that Jesus’ light will touch you in some way today and that you share His light with others.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] Shine Jesus Shine, Graham Kendrick, 1987

 


[i] Shine Jesus Shine, Graham Kendrick, 1987

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“Bread Upon the Water” – Musical Musings in March

March 8th, 2014 dsisler

My husband loves music and he loves to listen to music. He had upgraded the speakers and stereo in every vehicle he’s owned. Some of his music likes surprise me and some just warm my heart. One of his favorite groups to listen to are the Imperials.

 

IMAG1492A particular song that the Imperials sang reminds me of my freshman year at Cincinnati Bible College (they’ve changed the name of this school, but I have such difficultly calling it that…sorry Cincinnati Christian University). I joined a group of people who performed with puppets and muppets. We traveled around the area, set up our big stage and equipment, and then proceeded to share God’s message through these inanimate objects.

 

The music we used was always fun and lively, had a great message to tell, but it also needed to have some different parts going on so that each muppet could do something different. You know, like backup singers.

 

The song that brings back these memories is “Bread Upon the Water.” The lyrics are taken from Ecclesiastes 11:1 and Luke 6:38 and if you haven’t heard it in a while, just Google it and find yourself singing along to this tune.

 

Ecclesiastes 11:1 (NIV) says, “Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.”

 

But another section of the song quotes Jesus from Luke 6:38 (NIV). Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

 

Oh how I wish I had been sitting at Jesus’ feet to hear these words. He wanted this crowd to get the message…give! We know Jesus shared this message on multiple occasions, but not like this. The results of our giving are immeasurable. The blessings we receive when we give go beyond anything we could ever imagine. So much so that we are unable to keep them confined. And then we need to give yet again.

 

There are many ways to give. We can give of our time, our talents, our money, ourselves. Maybe you can only give in one of these areas. Maybe you’re able to give in all of these areas. Whatever the case, Jesus tells us to give.

 

So how are you giving? Do you volunteer in your local church? If not, you need to. Your church needs you. And regardless of your talents, if your heart is in it, God will bless it. If you don’t know where to start, start by asking around and see where there is a need. I’m certain you’ll receive plenty of ideas and invitations.

 

I used to work with a team of ladies to plan women’s events for our church and the minister’s wife heads up this team. She closes each email to us with these words. “It’s a pleasure serving Jesus with you.” Yes, it is a pleasure to serve Jesus. It’s my pleasure.

 

God wants us, urges us to give. As Christ-followers, giving is part of our spiritual DNA. We cannot deny it. We must embrace and develop this area of our lives. And then we simply need to wait.

 

So as you listen to this song today, think of ways you can be serving Jesus!

 

“Bread Upon the Water”

 

Well there are people who think they’re not receiving

Anything from God at all

Oh they are shaken from their believin’

When they don’t see results they quickly fall

 

But don’t you waiver keep on living

In the way God wants you to

Don’t get discouraged keep on giving

Soon it will come back to you

 

Oh keep on working seeking the kingdom

Instead of working for your needs

Just keep on sharing the love of Jesus

You know growing comes from planting seeds

 

Keep on casting your bread upon the water

Soon it’s going to come back home on every wave

Keep on casting your bread upon the water

Soon it’s going to come back home on every wave[i]

 

To listen to this song as recorded by the Gaither Vocal Band, click here!

 

Keep on casting…

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] © Universal Music Publishing Group, Bread Upon The Water Lyrics by Gaither Vocal Band, music composed by Grein

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“Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” – Musical Musings in March

March 7th, 2014 dsisler

Who is on the Lord’s side? That question has been asked through the years and has been answered in one of two ways.

 

IMAG1492Joshua made the call to Israel. In Joshua 24, the case was made to be on God’s side. Then Joshua posed the question. “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15 – NIV)

 

Later we see that the people made the right choice. They chose to be on God’s side. “We will serve the Lord our God and obey him.” (Joshua 24:24 – NIV)

 

But later in Scripture we see Jesus talking with a wealthy young man. He asked Jesus a question something like, “How can I get on Your side?” You know everyone wants to be on the winning side. Well Jesus gave this young man an answer, but he left Jesus’ presence sad…he wasn’t willing to do what was necessary to be on Jesus’ side (Mark 10:17-22).

 

The question must be asked of us today. Are you on Jesus’ side? Do you live your life so that others see whose side you’re on? I pray that you do. I pray that I do!

 

I recall singing this song a great deal through the years, but never really took into account all that it takes to be on the Lord’s side. Facing the foe. Leaving the world’s side. Bringing others to Jesus. Putting aside my personal preferences and desires. Being bold and true. That’s a lot to ask.

 

But when we make the choice as Joshua did, we are secure in our victory. Our triumph is sure. Joyfully enlisting in the army of the Lord brings blessings beyond our imagination. Why wouldn’t want to be on His side?

 

Today let’s look at the fierce battles we face as victories on the Lord’s side. Let’s look at the foe through Jesus’ eyes…defeated! Let’s rally together and heed the battle cry. Let’s say, “we are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!”

 

Will you join me?

 

“Who Is on the Lord’s Side?”

 

Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King?
Who will be His helpers, other lives to bring?
Who will leave the world’s side? Who will face the foe?
Who is on the Lord’s side? Who for Him will go?
By Thy call of mercy, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Not for weight of glory, nor for crown and palm,
Enter we the army, raise the warrior psalm;
But for love that claimeth lives for whom He died:
He whom Jesus saveth marches on His side.
By Thy love constraining, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Jesus, Thou hast bought us, not with gold or gem,
But with Thine own lifeblood, for Thy diadem;
With Thy blessing filling each who comes to Thee,
Thou hast made us willing, Thou hast made us free.
By Thy grand redemption, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Fierce may be the conflict, strong may be the foe,
But the King’s own army none can overthrow;
’Round His standard ranging, vict’ry is secure,
For His truth unchanging makes the triumph sure.
Joyfully enlisting, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Chosen to be soldiers, in an alien land,
Chosen, called, and faithful, for our Captain’s band;
In the service royal, let us not grow cold,
Let us be right loyal, noble, true and bold.
Master, wilt Thou keep us, by Thy grace divine,
Always on the Lord’s side—Savior, always Thine![i]

 

If you’d like to hear a traditional version of this hymn, click here and listen to a grand choir singing this melody.

 

Want to hear a cool a cappella version of this hymn? Click here to listen.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?”, Words by Frances R. Havergal, Music by John Goss, Public Domain, 1877.

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“The New 23rd” – Musical Musings in March

March 6th, 2014 dsisler

Today’s melody is from another great song writer. Ralph Carmichael. It’s true that Mr. Carmichael is credited with some secular tunes (including the soundtrack to The Blob in 1958), he has been faithful to use his talent to bring others to Jesus through his music.

 

IMAG1492It’s been years since I’ve thought of today’s melody. I’ve read and re-read the Psalm it is based upon many times, but this song has been stored away in the recesses of my melodious heart. Now, however, the memories of this song are flowing.

 

It was popular when I was a child and it could be heard in church services or television programs (perhaps you remember some of those) or conventions. It was beautiful sung with full orchestration or a cappella. It was meaningful whether sung by a great choir or a soloist in the local church. And if given the chance, I’m sure it would be the same today.

 

You see, the message is timeless. Psalm 23 has been used throughout generations to comfort the hurting. To give hope to those who need a boost. To give guidance to those who have lost their way.

 

Today I pray that you’ll find what you need in this version of the 23rd Psalm. It has been especially meaningful to me.

 

“The New 23rd”

 

Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything that I need.

He lets me rest in meadows green and leads me beside the quiet stream;

He keeps on giving life to me and helps me to do what honors Him the most.

Even when walking through the dark valley of death, valley of death,

I will never be afraid, for he is close beside me,

Guarding, guiding all the way;

He spreads a feast before me

In the presence of my enemies.

He welcomes me as His special guest.

With blessing overflowing, His goodness and unfailing kindness shall be with me all of my life

And afterward I will live with Him forever, forever in His home,

Forever in His home, forever in His home.[i]

 

Christine Wyrtzen’s version of this song can be heard by clicking here.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “The New 23rd”, Words and Music by Ralph Carmichael; based on Psalm 23, Lexicon Music, Inc., 1969.

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“I’m Amazed” – Musical Musings in March

March 5th, 2014 dsisler

There are some things in this world that amaze me. Like the fact that we had warm temperatures yesterday…in the 50’s. Then a storm from blew through and overnight we received an inch of snow! At least it’s not the foot or two they are getting in the mountains.

 

IMAG1492I’m amazed at technology. The things that someone thought to try (and in some cases tried over and over until they got it right). We’ve come a long way just in my lifetime. From typewriters to computers. From film cameras to digital phone cameras. From filmstrips to DVD’s. From record players to iPods.

 

I’m amazed that we’ve been able to send men and women into space. Some have walked on the moon. We even have a roaming robot on Mars!

 

God’s creation always amazes me. The beauty of nature. The unique features of our world. The abilities and instincts of the animal kingdom. The amazing inner workings of the human body.

 

I’m amazed at the kindness of people. My heart is touched when I see goodness. I find deep joy when compassion is shared between individuals.

 

But most of all, I’m amazed at what God has done for mankind. For me. He has redeemed me through His Son. When I was most unredeemable, God amazed me.

 

Yes, God’s love, mercy, compassion, and grace amaze me every day. I pray that I never take any of these for granted.

 

I heard today’s tune on the radio last week. I loved the grandiose of the arrangement, the richness of the soloist’s voice, and the hundreds of voices that backed up that beautiful voice. But most of all, I was captured by the song’s lyrics.

 

I recalled feeling alone and empty. I recalled the times I chose to wander and go astray. I recalled living a life of weakness. And then I recalled how amazing it is to live in God’s love. Yes friend, it is amazing!

 

Maybe this is a song for you. Take a look at what you can find through God’s amazing love and grace. Then reach out to Him. And you too will be amazed at what He will do for you.

 

“I’m Amazed”

 

No one knew how alone I was feeling,

And the emptiness I tried so hard to hide.

Though I laughed and said my life was fine without You,

I was covering up the secret tears I had cried.

 

Then one day someone told me of Your mercy,

And the love you have shown on a hill call Calvary.

There You died and purchased my redemption,

When You broke sins power and set my spirit free.

 

Chorus:

I’m amazed that You love me,

I’m amazed how You care.

Through Your precious blood I found pardon.

And my sins are washed, they’re all washed away.

All my sins are washed away.

 

Yes it’s true, there’s been days when I’ve failed You.

Lord you know the many times I’ve gone astray.

But I’ve learned Your love is stronger than my weakness,

And Your ear is open every time I pray.

 

No one else has ever cared for me like You Lord,

Other friends could never be as close to me.

I’m not afraid to face the problems of tomorrow,

Knowing You are everything I’ll ever need.[i]

 

Jason Crabb joined the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir to record this song. Click here if you’d like to listen. The beautiful photos in this version are worth the look too!

 

Life is too short to wander this earth with unamazed eyes, ears and hearts. Take a look around you. Find something to be amazed at today. And please be sure to thank God for His amazing gift…abundant life!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “I’m Amazed,” words and music by Carol Cymbala, Carol Joy Music, 2005.

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  • About Me

  • "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19

  • I am a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. I lived in the beautiful state of Colorado for 20 years where I found great inspiration for my novels and devotional writings. Currently living in Jacksonville, Florida.

  • I am passionate about helping women find their way to Jesus through Bible study, teaching, speaking, inspirational writing and creative Bible journaling.

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    In September 2012 I went to SE Asia on a service trip. For more information, check out preachitclearly.blogspot.com.

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