The Light

Isn’t Christmas a delightfully joyous time of the year! Glowing, radiant, bright, shining lights illumine our eyes, hearts, minds, and emotions as at no other time. If that were all there was to it, we could be most miserable of all women in the midst of the frivolity. All could be dull, dim, obscure and life could be meaningless.

But there is more! So much more! Jesus made a grand statement in the temple. He declared, “I am the Light of the world” (John 8:12). But the glorious Light was rejected by the majority, and dimness and dullness has hovered over the earth ever since.

I would like to make a practical application which has been my recent experience due to our move to this cozy apartment. Our large home had porches that hindered the sunlight from shining on our hard wood floors. The sunlight streams in on the dark bamboo floors of our present home exposing dust that I don’t see on overcast days and I’m mortified. The lesson for me from this often repeated experience keeps me on my spiritual tip- toes.  What do we do with the uncleanness in our hearts that the light of God’s Word continually exposes?  “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). When the sunlight reveals dust on my floor, I run for the mop. Lord, please help us to be as quick to run to you and your word for the cleansing process to our dirty hearts.  “ The Lord is my light and my salvation…” (Psa. 27:1)

Dear friends, it is with regret that I am taking a leave from posting my blog. Since I ask the Lord to pass the lessons through the grid of my heart, I have profited so much from preparing them; even to the point of occasionally going back to old blogs for refreshment, correction, and challenge. I have other accomplishments to pursue and I can’t do them all at this time.

May God’s love, peace, and blessing be yours.                      

Norma Whitcomb

Help from Above

“For I, the Lord thy God, will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, ‘Fear not, I will help thee’ (Isaiah 41:13).

How personal! The eternal God of Heaven, the all powerful Creator of the universe, our personal Father dwelling above, is holding your and my hand. Unthinkable apart from the fact that He is “I am who I am.” Stop everything for a bit, sit down and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal that blessed assurance to you. —————-    (Pause) Did you? I did.

In fact, I have been thriving on such promises all my life, but especially since June. For at least one year it has been obvious that we had to simplify our lives by downsizing. My husband’s large study containing more than 2,000 books was his challenge, but the rest of the large, functional household has been mine, and there is no way to describe the numerous ways in which God has fulfilled His promises to give wisdom and strength for the task at hand.

In the midst of big question marks our Lord does not leave us in a quandary nor confusion. As I have stood in a room or opened a file drawer I have sent many  SOSs to my Father. “Where do I start? What am I to do with all this stuff?”  Where He leads us, He will direct and help us. There have been difficulties as well as physical weaknesses, but God has supported us. We have been confident that He holds us by
His strong right hand.

I want you to catch the fact that this is not to be so much about us as it is about God who is our strong Helper. He will be just that in every circumstance of life as you take Him into your situations. He rejoices when you do that. He yearns that you do that. He is your Father and He wants to take that responsibility. Perhaps you are in need at this very moment. Weak? In difficulty? Oppressed? His strength is made perfect in your weakness. His strength is glorified in your weakness. He will strengthen you with His powerful right hand of righteousness and bundle  you up in His strong everlasting arms. All in answer to your believing, prevailing prayer.

He has promised and He will surely do it.

“Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed! 
Lo, I am thy God, and will still give thee aid!
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.”

Faith Tested

Has your faith been stretched lately? Maybe right now? God has a purpose for those fiery ordeals. You know that, don’t you? Peter makes a bold statement. He advises us that the trial of our faith is precious. It is so precious that is exceeds the worth of gold! Stop and think about that. Let it go through the grid of your mind as well as your heart. Look at your ring, your watch, your necklace, your jewelry box. Which do you treasure most? Faith or shiny metal? Which do we want people to be attracted to? Our faith or our jewelry? God’s Word presents a short but penetrating statement: “WITHOUT FAITH IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD”  (Heb. 11:6).   I’m so thankful that God directed me to these thoughts today.( I need to consider them, myself)

Can you believe it? This article, which I have edited, came in today’s mail. Scientists have discovered that gold veins can be produced in a few tenths of a second. “Veins of gold are  produced when molten rock flowing through cracks (caused by earthquakes) deep in the earth depressurize rapidly, causing the minerals and metals to precipitate out. … During the Flood of Noah’s day there would have been intense earthquake activity, which would have produced gold in a flash.”

The Book describes Heaven as a place where gold is commonplace. The streets are paved with it! In our ignorance we sometimes place value on things that turn out to be of little value. Our desires overtake us. If we are believing Christians, the Holy Spirit yearns to direct and correct us.

Not for a minute am I implying that owning and wearing gold is out of place. I enjoy wearing gold, but which do I cherish most — the opportunity to encourage someone in their walk with the Lord, or my jewelry? I trust you don’t think this is too nitty-gritty. To me it is very important as I turn the searchlight onto my heart.

Why does God permit fiery ordeals? For reasons known only to Him. Trials do prove the genuineness of our faith and they certainly do prove the adequacy of God. Rather than asking “why,” we trustingly acquiesce, knowing that our Father is loving and wise. “Faith keeps us confident and holds us steady, because we know that ‘manifold trials’ (1 Pet. 1:6 - ASV) are always matched by the ‘manifold grace of God’” (1 Pet. 4:10 - KJV). Source unknown. Don’t miss it: “Manifold trials are always matched by the manifold grace of God.”

“You may find it difficult to sing when overcome by buffeting. Rest in the sovereignty of God’s rest like you rest on a soft couch. Relax in Jesus. Trust the Father to do exceeding abundantly for those who trust Him. Claim Romans 8:28.

God holds the whole wide world in His hands, yet He knows the number of hairs on our head.  He cares when a sparrow falls, yet the price He paid for the redemption of one of us is greater than all the sparrows of the world. Would He forsake you or me — His priceless ones? No! A thousand times, No!!!! Rest on His promise: “I will never, absolutely never, assuredly never leave nor forsake you!!!”  (Heb. 13:5). Emphasis as in the Greek.

BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God,” Matthew 5:8. Promise. Hope. Peace of heart, mind, and soul. That is what we Christian women absolutely need these days, isn’t it? It is ours for the taking. Let’s dwell here for awhile.

Why do we struggle when God offers us such an awesome blessing? People all around us are hurting deeply. Maybe you are one; or one of your family members.

I am still lingering in Isaiah for my daily study these days. Just think! Thousands of years ago God, through the the Holy Spirit, inspired Isaiah to pen exactly what you and I need today.

Let’s look at Matthew 5:8 for a moment before delving into Isaiah. Jesus took His disciples aside and warned them about the temptations that they would face for following Him—mourning, hunger, and persecution. Not fame and fortune, ease and pleasure, not to be a socialite and gain prestige. The beatitudes tell us that we are blessed. Jesus used the word “blessed” to mean the  experience of hope and joy, independent of outward circumstances. Jesus explained that His kingdom and the worldly kingdoms differ immensely. What are we living for? Selfishness or sacrifice, pride or humility, self-sacrifice or lust for monetary gain? What are we striving for? How do we qualify to receive God’s blessing?

The 30th chapter of Isaiah causes us to examine our own “manner of life” as we read about God’s dealings with Judah. Verse one immediately catches our attention with the penetrating word “Woe.” What is the red flag? The Lord declares it to be independence from Him. “Woe …to those who carry out plans that are not mine.” In our dilemma and searching for answers, we seek advice from everyone but God. We search for comfort, advice, relief, hoping to find an easy way out of our troubles. God yearns that we consult Him. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” ( Matt.11:28). Note the assurance of verse18, “Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you…Blessed are all who wait for Him.” Yes, He gives help in emergencies, but He longs to be our Helper and Guide throughout our lives. When we do it His way, we have a bond with God that provides ceaseless stability, even when we hurt.

Carefully note Isaiah 30: 15-19. The sovereign Lord made it clear to His people that they would have had salvation, quietness, rest, and strength if they had turned to Him. They said, “No, we will seek our own means.” For that, the Lord struck His people with the bread of adversity and the water of affliction.

Friends, I am writing this from my heart, but I don’t feel that I am adequately expressing myself. This particular study in Isaiah has hit me just where I need it, because I’m one, who, at times, rushes ahead of God to be “Mrs. Fix It.” I don’t mean to be. I’m well aware of the fact that God wants me to lean only on Him. It just happens before I know it. (I am learning.) PTL! Only as we come to God in quietness and trust can we experience God’s grand design. We have nothing to say but thank you. Yes, I really believe that. I pray you do to.

We go to Him in prayer and God comes to us with fulfillment of His promises to teach us and guide us during hard times. It is that we might grow in His image and thus glorify Him.

In closing, note that God reminds us of His abundant graciousness as well as His compassion, justice, and patience when we wait on Him (verse 18).

And now a quote from my Life Application Study Bible: “The Lord gave his people the bread of adversity…but he promised to be with them, teach them, and guide them during hard times. God expects a lot from us and many times following him can be painful; but he always acts out of his love for us. The next time you go through a difficult time, try to appreciate the experience  and grow from it.”

“How quickly we organize our lives around human advice [or our own ideas] when dealing with our problems while we neglect God’s eternal promises…Satan tries to confuse or deceive us. People don’t necessarily need to be sinful to be ineffective for God: they need only be confused about what God wants. To avoid Satan’s deceit, study God’s Word carefully and regularly. When you know  what God says, you will not fall for Satan’s lies” (LASBible).

Norma speaking as a result of recent experiences: let God lead. Cooperate  with Him. His way is perfect.

Thought 98

"God does not direct year by year, nor even day by day, but step by step my path unfolds; my Lord directs the way.  Tomorrow's plans I do not know, I only know this minute.  But He will say, "This is the way, by faith now walk ye in it."  And when tomorrow comes, His grace shall far exceed its care. What need to worry then, or fret?  The God who gave His Son holds all my moments in His hand and gives them one by one."

Thought 97

"When peace like a river attendeth my way.  When sorrows like sea billows roll.  Whatever my lot, you have taught me to say, 'It is well, it is well with my soul.' "  Yes Lord. "Be still and know that I am God" (Psa. 46:10).

Thought 96

What is troubling your heart at this moment?  Remember when trouble comes to     threaten your peace, your Peacemaker is ready and longingly waiting to help you.         He has made a promise that He will keep you in perfect peace when your mind is     stayed on Him (cf. Isa. 26:3).

CONTENTMENT IN RETIREMENT ~ Part 4

While the three previous blogs have focused on the outer person, this blog is primarily going to focus on contentment within the heart, and the mind, and the soul of a woman. God’s word will be our main source of instruction. There is nothing else so reliable or penetrating, is there? So we will approach our study seriously, won’t we?

We seniors develop strange mind sets, habits, thoughts, and ideas; and we get “set in our ways,” which absorbs our lifestyle. In some cases it crowds God out. That is dangerous and should never be. The Word of God must become our lifeline. That takes discipline and lots of it. The termites of life hinder us from gazing on Christ.

Question. How can we rectify that? If we have become absorbed by filling our previous multiple workaholic activities with multiple time-filler activities — even profitable activities — it is possible that love for God and His penetrating Word has been squeezed to second or third place. If that has happened, we must, by God’s help, change our ways. There are ways to do that. Following is one suggestion.

The book of Philippians stabs my heart and punctures my soul every time I open to it. I am there often. It is not normal to stay on spiritual track without God’s help is it? Note God’s encouragements and challenges: 2:5 “Your attitude should be that of…”; 3:13 “Forgetting those things…”; 4:4 “Rejoice …”;  4:12  “I have learned.…” These are a few from my readily available written out list that I often refer to. Perhaps you would like to turn to the references to complete these helpful reminders. How rich! How challenging! Why not set the knitting needles and the golf clubs aside and dig deep into the beneficial riches of God’s Word.

I have another list from 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Peter. You can do the same with any Bible book. This time I have made statements rather than quoting verses. I Pet 1:3, We have an inheritance in the Lord Jesus Christ. 1:5, We are shielded by God’s power. 1:14, Do not conform to evil desires.

Seniors often say, “I am so busy now that I have retired. I don’t know how I did it all before.”  For me that puts up a bright red flag that spells inventory time.

Andrew Murray’s account is extremely impressive. He wrote,

“I was very much struck a time ago in an infant school examination, with the practice a little class in object lessons was put through. A picture was shown them, which they were told to look at carefully. They then had to shut their eyes and take time to think and remember everything they had seen. The picture was now removed and the little ones had to tell all they could remember. Again the picture was shown, and they had to try and notice what they had not observed before; again to shut their eyes and think, and again to tell what more they had noticed. And so once more, until every line of the picture had been taken in. As I looked at the keen interest with which the little eyes now gazed on the picture, and then were pressed so tightly shut as they tried to realize, and take in, and keep what they had been looking at, I felt that if our Bible reading were more of such an object lesson, the unseen spiritual realities pictured to us in the Word would take much deeper hold of our inner life. We are too easily content with the thoughts suggested by the words of the Bible, though these are but forms of truth, without giving time for the substantial spiritual reality, which the Word as the truth of God contains, to get lodged and rooted in the heart. *Let us, in meditating on the image of God in Christ, to which we are to be conformed, remember this. When some special trait has occupied our thoughts, let’s shut our eyes, and open our hearts; let us think, and pray, and believe in the working of the Holy Spirit, until we really see the blessed Master in that special light in which the Word has been setting Him before us and carry away for that day the deep and abiding impression of that heavenly beauty in Him which we know is to be reproduced in us. Let us gaze and gaze again, let us worship and adore; the more we see Him as He is, the likelier to Him we must become. To study the image of God in the man Christ Jesus, to yield and set upon our inmost being for that image to take possession and live in us, and then to go forth and let the heavenly likeness reflect itself out of our life among our fellowmen, —this is what we have been redeemed for, let this be what we live for.”

Andrew Murray has given us a challenge for our retirement years. I entrust his lengthy quote to God’s gracious care in you as well as myself to grow ever closer to Him for His unspeakable glory.

Thought 95

In the world tribulation, in Christ peace.  Do you have peace right now?  If you by faith know Jesus Christ as your Savior, He is waiting to give you a peaceful countenance.  Stop whatever you are doing.  Sit down.  Be quiet.  Talk to Him about your situation and by all means wait for Him to talk to you.  No, not in an audible voice, but by His Spirit communing with your spirit.  "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."  That's a promise!

Thought 94

Day by day and with each passing moment, strength I find to meet my trial here.  "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God.  And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:6-7).

Thought 93

"God tests our desire and increases it by the waiting."  Fred Mitchell

Thought 92

"From the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee; when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I" (Psa. 61:2).  When we talk to our heavenly Father He raises us above our fears and our anticipations.

Thought 91

The blessings of Calvary's blood are inexhaustible! "We come whenever distressed by guilt, disturbed by fears, assailed by Satan, stressed by want, and faced by death."  Jesus' blood is the answer to every need.  Praise! Praise! Praise!  Let's not forget to apply it to all the "dailies" of our lives.  Our heavenly Father is ready and waiting.

"Aspirement" - Content in Retirement - Part 3

Last month’s considerations ended with thoughts about “aspirement” which means “to desire with eagerness.” That ideal should really help retired people, as well as all ages, to richer, fuller living, especially when it is God-centered. I mentioned that we would consider some specifics as to how we can do this. This blog will be a mix of earthly and godly considerations.

I’m aware that many who read these meditations are not in the retired bracket. I trust you will pick up on these thoughts as you are inspired to reach out to some needy souls.

Last month’s considerations ended with thoughts about “aspirement” which means “to desire with eagerness.” That ideal should really help retired people, as well as all ages, to richer, fuller living, especially when it is God-centered. I mentioned that we would consider some specifics as to how we can do this. This blog will be a mix of earthly and godly considerations.

I’m aware that many who read these meditations are not in the retired bracket. I trust you will pick up on these thoughts as you are inspired to reach out to some needy souls.

A new magazine has just come to my desk. It is extremely helpful with suggestions on how to live longer, happier, resilient lives during “challenging times.” It presents recipes, “6 Foods With Healing Powers,”  testimonials of people who are in their nineties and have stayed “young at heart,” and more. Right on target but with something missing. The articles inform us how to live, but how do we die? There were no suggestions. (To assuage your inquisitiveness, I will list the “6 foods with healing powers: bananas, cherries, onions, beans (brimming with heart-healthy nutrients), carrots, and cabbage.”) I just opened a can of garbanzo beans to put on our salad.

Our generation is living longer than any generation before. Why keep going? From the “earthy” there are lots of reasons, but from the Christian perspective there are eternal values which we will consider below.  Now to the “earthy.” One author puts it this way. “Grow whole instead of growing old.” Stretch. Exercise as much as you think you can and then try more. A portable hand bike is good for both the arms and the legs. Water aerobics is one of the greatest. If you can’t do floor exercises, find ones that you can do while sitting in a chair. It might mean mind over mattress or the sofa, and it certainly means discipline. “Don’t sit and sour.” Get up, get out, and move about. Write that in BIG letters and cover the front of your TV. Why follow these suggestions? Because you will build energy, get rid of pains, develop a new attitude, stop your grouchiness, frequent the doctor less often, and have sunshine in your heart.

The Book of James is such a practical book that I feel I must do a thorough study of it every now and then—yes, and I am always convicted that there are rough/sinful areas that need God’s cleansing. As we reach the sunset side of life, we are apt to move along thinking that we have learned it all. That we are ready to advise others without searching our own hearts. We “rest on our spiritual laurels.” James 3:2,3 reminds us to control our tongue/speech. Have you ever thought of the examples of an untamed tongue? Lying, complaining, exaggerating, bragging, gossiping, putting others down, false teaching.  And the list gets longer as we ask God to turn the searchlight on our hearts. What about other issues that need to be disciplined: impatience,  grumbling, faultfinding, judgmentalism? “It’s me, O Lord, standing in the need of prayer.”  He works and I trust Him to grow me and mellow me.

For many years my life verse has been Phil. 4:13. “I can all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I must continually exercise my mind to think godly thoughts, participate in godly activities, and thus strengthen and grow my spiritual muscles to be more useful for His glory and to be an example of godliness before others. To do that, I claim Phil. 4:13.

Thought 90

"Money will buy: A bed, but not sleep.  Books, but not brains.  Food, but not appetite.  Finery, but not beauty.  A house, but not a home.  Medicine, but not health.  Luxuries, but not culture.  Amusements, but not happiness.  A cross, but not a Savior.  A church pew, but not heaven."  Selected

Thought 89

Friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly. (Orbitz)  Isn't that a beautiful treasure?  Let's be that kind of friend.

Thought 88

"Our work is solemn, therefore we dare not trifle.  Our task is difficult, therefore we dare not relax.  Our opportunities are brief, therefore we dare not delay.  Our path is narrow, therefore we dare not wander.  Our prize will be glorious, therefore, we dare not faint." Selected

Thought 87

We look back on our little girlhood to when we had a bestest best friend.  Some mothers and daughters think of each other as best friends.  Some husband-wife relationships are that of best friends.  We must admit there are disappointments, though short lived.  When our heart strings are securely tied to Jesus through His Word, we have a friendship that is continually satisfying.

Thought 86

When God uses a period, don't replace it with a question mark!

Thought 85

The blessings of Calvary's blood are inexhaustible.  "We come whenever distressed by guilt, disturbed by fears, assailed by Satan, stressed by want, faced with death." (source unknown)  Day by day and with each passing moment, strength I find [in Jesus Christ] to meet my trials here.

CONTENTMENT IN RETIREMENT ~ Part 2

This month’s paper has portions of an article which Wilferd A. Peterson has entitled The New “Aspirement.” Yes! Why should I spend hours composing something that proposes my own  premise? May it inspire you as it has me.

"‘So you are really all through for good!’ a friend exclaimed on learning of my retirement. ‘If you mean by through that I’m all washed-up, finished with life and fun and adventure, I reject your remarks.  But if you mean that my retirement is a breakthrough to things I have always wanted to do, that it is an open door to travel and new experiences and new creativity, with time to accomplish the hundreds of things I’ve never had time for, then, thank God, I am through. I’m through with road blocks, hurdles, and obstructions. I’m on my way.”

“Retirement didn’t catch me by surprise. My wife and I had been thinking about it for some years, and we had some definite thoughts about it.”

“In a sense, the word ‘retire’ is a good word. An army retires to gather its forces, to seek reinforcements, to renew the energies of its men, to re-organize so it can attack again with vigor and win new victories. Those of us who are 65, or 35, or 25, need this kind of ‘retirement.’ It may be a walk in the woods. It may be a quiet time of meditation and prayer. It may be a trip somewhere. It means to evaluate a situation, to think calmly, to explore possibilities.” Yes, and   to commune with the Savior.

“With such ‘retirement’ we come back to our tasks with new spirit and new enthusiasm. This is a technique that can be used by individuals of all ages, as well, to change and expand and broaden their lives.”

As for me, Norma Whitcomb speaking, I want to continue to be useful for the Lord’s glory, to write, perhaps to oil paint, and to help others in a worthy manner. I want to continue to be creative and to encourage people in their walk with the Lord. I don’t want to sit in a chair and think lonesomeness. I want to be involved in teaching the Word to whomsoever wants to learn. There are many venues to pursue. We will think more about that at another time.

The word “retirement” doesn’t express what most people want. You have dreams that you are eager to tackle. What are you waiting for? Get started. Would God be pleased?  Then jump in the car. Get the equipment and get started. Forget the lounge and TV. Above everything else, absorb God’s Word. Do an in-depth review of Psalm 69, which overwhelms us with Jesus’ suffering  and death for us. Review Psalm 71, which talks about old age. Keep absorbing.

Wilferd Peterson came up with a new word — aspirement -  which has an upward and onward lilt to it. The dictionary indicates that ‘aspire’ means “to desire with eagerness, to seek and to attain something high and great.” That ideal should inspire retired people to find a new pattern, a new outlook, a new life, and a new breakthrough to richer, fuller living which glorifies God.

That ideal should really help retired people to richer, fuller living. Aspirement can be the greatest time of our lives.

“…whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).

Thought 84

Every hour is precious and irreplaceable.  I set my timer for fifteen minutes.  How much did I do?  Were those minutes profitable?  How long did it take me to put on my make-up and fix my hair this AM?  Was it longer than I spent in prayer?  What did I do?  Or maybe I just frittered the minutes away.  I can never get them back.

CONTENTMENT IN RETIREMENT

Several of my blogs have been written about contentment, but they have been of a general nature.  Since Dr. Whitcomb and I are in the retirement stage of life, and have a passion to be useful channels for the Lord, we face many decisions just as you do.  So, from my thick file entitled

“Seniors,” which doesn’t sound as threatening as “Elderly,” I write these thoughts.

“Don’t be afraid of growing old,” said a man to a group of over-sixties. “When you stop growing old, you’re dead.” That may sound either threatening or glorious, depending on your standing with the Lord. This will be discussed later.

To face a threatening situation as though it does not exist is neither logical nor healthy.  Aging is a fact of life.

Cicero said four things about age: “It makes our bodies feeble; it takes us out of participation with life; it robs us of the pleasures of youth; and it reminds us that death is waiting.” But Job put a premium on age: “Wisdom is with aged men; with long life is understanding” (Job 12:12).

Older Christians are usually well adjusted. They have mellowed with maturity. They have something to live for and something to die for. But it is a shame that some senior citizens give up, let themselves go, look untidy, abandon exercise and diet, and sink into inactivity. A few are meddlesome, critical, and demanding. This is where we may come into their lives to give them purpose for Jesus’ sake.

Aging starts with conception, is most rapid  with very young children, and continues as long as life lasts. Normal old age is healthy. We are advised that “when older people get sick it is not because they are old, but because they finally succumb to ailments that have been in their systems, undetected for years.” I did not know this, but thought it interesting enough to mention.

By no means are all older folk sick, lonely, pessimistic, or unproductive.  Most are well able to take care of themselves. Yes, some have incurable ailments, but that does not make them invalids. With God’s blessing they can have many years of productivity. My husband, who will be 92 in June, and in his fifth year with Parkinson’s disease, is an example. Every other week he participates in an hour-long radio program (Worldview Weekend), speaks often in churches and schools, writes articles and books, and is active with Answers in Genesis, especially with the Ark Encounter project in Kentucky. There are thousands of others who have lived long and productive lives.

A seventy-year-old college professor writes, “I am realistic enough not to expect that I can maintain my present post-retirement level of participation in the work of the academic community in coming years. I see no sharp falling-off, but only the prospect that self-discipline (or the lack of it) will determine how high that level of participation will be.”  Sadly, God is left out of his prospect, but I include it for the self-discipline aspect.

“Casting all your care upon HIM, for HE cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Life is a journey, and God has a plan for each of us.

(To be continued)

Thought 83

"In praise, as in all true prayer and worship, we clothe ourselves anew with the Lord"      (p. 39 of an unidentifiable book).

Thought 82

"Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against Thee."  We usually hide treasures, and the more precious the treasures, the more tenderly and carefully we hid them.  A treasure is an extremely precious something to us.  So precious that we cherish it and hardly want to share it.  We take it out, we examine it, and we clutch it to our breast. No way would we want to part with it.  What a momentary experience. I find that to be an occasional experience as God and I commune together over the Word.  It is so hard to describe those special moments with God.  They are priceless treasures.

Thought 81

"Today before you say an unkind word, think of someone who can't speak.  Before you complain about the taste of your food, think of someone who has nothing to eat.  Before you complain about our husband or wife, think of someone who's crying out to God for a companion.  Before whining about the distance you drive, think of someone who walks or bikes the same distance.  When you complain about your job, think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had a job. God cares for those who are His.  'Give thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ' " (Eph. 5:20).

Thought 80

"Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you did.  As soon as we do this, we find one of the greatest secrets.  When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him.  If you injure someone you dislike, you will find yourself disliking him more.  If you do him a good turn, you will find yourself disliking him less" (from p. 48 of an unidentifiable book).

Thought 80

"Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you did.  As soon as we do this, we find one of the greatest secrets.  When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him.  If you injure someone you dislike, you will find yourself disliking him more.  If you do him a good turn, you will find yourself disliking him less" (from p. 48 of an unidentifiable book).

Thought 79

Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil.  It has no point.  "Set your mind upon Jesus and the things of earth will grow...dim in the light of His glory and grace."

No Blog Post This Month

For a number of reasons I am not able to create a blog post for this month. Thank you for your interest and prayers. Norma Whitcomb.

Thought 78

God's Word never changes and it will always accomplish His purpose.  Trust it, know it, use it, and live by it.  Our faith is too weak too often.  We look for and try other resources instead of nailing our faith on God's promises.  Question:  "When the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:8).  No, unless it is part of the believer's daily walk.

Thought 77

Heart trouble:  An unsurrendered heart is a sick heart; an unbelieving heart is a sick heart; sick hearts and unbelieving hearts are sinful heart.  There is an effective remedy for sinfully sick hearts.  "Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against Thee" (Psa. 119:11).

Thought 76

The Truth About Chastening by Pastor John Keeter.  "God knows how to get our attention!  God's chastening is His child training.  Though many today view God as a loving grandfather who simply turns his head without concern for evil or sin, that belief is not rooted in the Bible.  The truth about chastening is seen in Lev. 26:27-28. "And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, but walk contrary unto me, then I will walk contrary unto you in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sin."

Thought 75

We are awed when we investigate the building of Solomon's temple, one of the wonders of the world.  Each beautiful, precious stone was perfectly dimensioned, cut, and meticulously placed (1 Kings 5:17, 6:7).  All for the glory of God.  Each believer is a costly stone, purchased by the blood of Christ that we may "adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things" (Titus 2:10).  To adorn implies beautification.  We can't "add" to the doctrine of God, but we certainly need to make it attractive to onlookers.

Thought 74

"God does not direct year by year, nor even day by day, but step by step as my path unfolds; my Lord directs the way.  Tomorrow's plans I do not know, I only know this minute.  But He will say, 'This is the way, by faith now walk ye in it.'  And when tomorrow comes, His grace shall far exceed its care. What need to worry then, or fret?  The God who gave His Son holds all my moments in His hand and gives them one by one"       (Source unknown).

Thought 73

Have you ever tried to mop the floor with a cane in your right hand?  I have.  Self-pity and despair were my first response.  What did God expect His child to do?  Wallow in misery or go to my source of release?  God has assured us that His grace is sufficient.  I know!  I have been there!  He is true to His Word!  Go to Him for whatever is casting you down. He promises to pick us up.

Thought 72

God grows us in His grace when we allow Him to work through the unexpecteds.  "It is God who worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure."  God's will and way first!  Does that surprise you?  Did you think it was for your pleasure?

MY CANVAS ~ Part Two

It was during our second home assignment that God chose to splash somber colors on my canvas. The seminary in which we had been teaching in the Philippines requested that both of us take a two-year furlough to complete higher degrees. That was our plan. We settled in Winona Lake, Indiana. Robert, my husband, enrolled in the doctoral program at Grace Theological Seminary, and I worked toward the completion of my Master’s degree.

Six months later Robert went out to jog in the wee hours of the night. My door bell rang. Three people were standing outside. They entered, stood in my kitchen and told me that my husband’s body was found on the street. He had dropped dead of a heart attack. Though the colors seemed very muddled at that moment, confidence in God’s faithfulness gave assurance, confidence, and peace in the midst of sorrow. It was as though God’s comforting assurance flooded over me. “He has done all things well” (Mark 7:37). “His work is perfect” (Deut. 32:4). I had taught these truths for years. Now I had to experience them for myself. Christ lived in the peace of His Father’s will. He would help me do the same.

My responsibility was to example these assurances before my eleven and fourteen year-old boys. Together we learned many lessons which proved that God was with us. Our canvases were not finished.

One afternoon, 16 months after my husband’s death, having finished my MS degree, I was shedding tears of lonesomeness in my Kansas home. God was very precious to me, but I was human and I was lonely. Seventy-two hours later I was in Indiana listening to Dr. John C. Whitcomb, Robert’s former teacher, tell me something that shocked me. He said, “Before Senie (his beloved wife) went to be with the Lord, she told me that there was no one else she would rather have to be the mother of our four children than Norma Whitcomb.” That was my name! Since God had indicated this to be some of His brushstrokes on my canvas, I accepted. And those strokes were bold and of the brightest color. I reveled in them. A widower and a widow became “heirs together of the grace of God” (Rom. 8:17).

I did not return to the Philippines as I had expected to do. My mission field came to me in the form of six teenagers. We married on January 1,1971, and six children, ages 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, with varied backgrounds, experiences, lifestyles, and rearing, became “ours.” I would be remiss to say that rearing a blended family had no hurdles. Through it all we learned. Today all six are walking with the Lord. In 2014 we had a family reunion. That Sunday morning as 32 of our family members filled two long church pews, my heart rejoiced to see the accomplishments of my years of missionary efforts: each one a canvas on which God was painting. “To God be the glory, great things He has done.” “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts” (Zech. 4:6).

After 39 years of seminary teaching, our ministry changed from teaching to traveling far and wide across the States and around the world to spread the news that the Sovereign Master is calling people to believe in His Son’s saving work.

For 45 years we have been privileged to follow the Lord’s call. He had promises for us, and He continues to fulfill them: “Even to your old age I am He, and to gray hairs I will carry you” (Isa. 46:4). Praise Him!

My CD, BRUSHSTROKES OF THE MASTER ARTIST, supports our evangelistic ministry, especially to hurting women.  Order from Whitcomb Ministries 317-250-5469 or website HERE. 

MY CANVAS — For your interest and information.

When I open a new book, the first thing I do is read about the author. I want to know about him, because that helps me identify with what he has to say. You have been reading my blogs for a few years. It might help you understand where I am coming from in my writing, if you know me a bit.

There is nothing more exciting to an artist than to sign a finished painting, lay the brush down, then stand back to admire his work. Our lives are a canvas on which God paints moment by moment. He never lays the brush down. God’s brushstrokes continue as long as we live, to make us objects of His grace and beauty that reflect His love and skill.

The renowned artists of the past centuries took several years to finish their masterpieces.

It is with humility and excitement that we cooperate with God as He patiently paints on the canvas of our lives to make us what He has planned us to be. A poster in my office reads,”Live one day at a time and make it a masterpiece.” God works, and we cooperate and respond.

My Master Artist has splashed both bright and dark colors, both bold and delicate strokes on my canvas to prepare me for future brushstrokes. “All things work together for good to those who love God,” Rom. 8:28. I used to think of dark brushstrokes as hurtful. I now think of them as love strokes because, “whom the Lord loves He chastens” Heb. 12:6. Think about that.

My childhood years in a Christian family and my marriage to a student of the Word were painted in beautiful colors. Also, God used bright, warm colors to paint eleven years in the Philippines where my husband and I with two small children were involved for five years as well as teaching in a Bible institute and seminary for six years after a one-year furlough. We expected that missionary work would be our life-long journey, and we pursued it with thanksgiving and anticipation.

Our first five year assignment placed us in a totally Catholic community in a barrio (country setting) where for several years missionaries had visited homes and made friends in the Name of Jesus, but not one person had professed Christ as Savior. The time seemed appropriate to hold a two-week Bible teaching campaign on the sandy sea shore. What a comfort to slip off our sandals and wiggle our toes in the warm sand as we sat on backless benches under the tropical evening sky. We desperately wanted our Filipino friends to become personally acquainted with our Savior. About a dozen did just that, and a church was born. More people came to know Christ in the pursuing weeks and years.

Our second six-year term assignment was to teach in a Bible school and seminary in our beloved Philippines. And God gave us the greatest desire of our heart. We were multiplying ourselves as we taught the Word to Filipino young people, equipping them to teach their own people! (2 Tim. 2:2). There was another thrill!  A few of the youth who were saved in the barrio church entered the school in which we were teaching, graduated, married and became preachers, teachers, and missionaries. “Cast your bread upon the waters; and you shall find it ….” (Eccl. 11:1). The harvest is sure.

                                 (I will tell you about more brush strokes next time.)

Thought #71

Through praise "we the finite and created are increasingly enabled to love and trust the infinite and Uncreated" (copied from p. 38 in unidentified book).

Thought #70

Our lives are presently in flux both personally and in our ministry.  Even though I was assured that God is on the Throne, it was exhausting me.  I stopped everything, sat down in our sun porch and turned to Eph. 1:3-23.  Our 6 1/2 pound poodle, resting in the sun on my lap, was such a lesson to me at that very moment.  Rest Norma.  Rest in my all-sufficiency.  Have you found Eph. 1:3-23 an encouragement in your stormy encounter? Maybe it was a different portion of Scripture.  The important move is that we bask in the Word.

Thought #69

"A Christian has a mind through which Christ thinks, a heart through which Christ loves, a voice through which Christ speaks, and a hand through which Christ helps."                     (E.Z. McKenzie)

Thought #68

"When peace like a river attendeth my way. When sorrows like sea billows roll.  Whatever my lot, you have taught me to say, 'it is well, it is well with my soul.' "  Yes Lord.  "Be still and know that I am God" (Psa. 46:10).

Thought #67

"He shall prolong His days" (Isa. 53:10).  How could Jesus prolong His days by dying?  By rising from the dead!  Jesus said in Revelation 1:18, "I am He who lives and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore."  He is going to be around for a long, long time.  We must get acquainted with Him, for we will never escape Him" (J.C. Whitcomb, Christ Our Savior, page 63).

Thought #66

What is troubling your heart at this moment?  Remember when trouble comes to threaten your peace, your Peacemaker is ready and longingly waiting to help you. He has made a promise that He will keep you and pour out peace when your mind is stayed on HIM       (cf. Isa. 26:3).

Thought #65

Put all your eggs in one basket and give the basket to God (Jesus says, "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me...and ye shall find rest unto your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matt. 11:29).  And when you have done that, turn to Gal. 2:6, "Bear ye one another's burdens..."

THOUGHTS, MEDITATIONS, SONGS, AND PRAYERS FOR 2016

Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Are we listening????

Ask and it shall be given to you; Seek and you shall find; Knock and
it shall be opened unto you.

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty;  I lift my heart before you as a token of my love.

Gracious Father, I am blest to be your child. I will lift my head before you as a token of my love.

Precious Jesus, I’m so thankful that you have redeemed me. Thank you. Thank you.

Holy Spirit, come and fill my heart anew. I will lift my voice before you as a token of my love.

Jesus is the sweetest Name I know. And He’s just the same as His lovely Name. And that’s the reason why I love Him so. Oh yes, Jesus is the sweetest Name I know.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy Name. He has done great things for me. Bless His Holy Name.

I will enter His gates with thanksgiving in my heart. I will enter His courts with praise. I will say this is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice for He has made me glad.

I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you: O my soul rejoice! Take joy, my King, in what you hear. May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.

I believe the answer is on the way. I believe the Lord has heard me pray. ”Cast not away your confidence,” says the Lord, your God. Now by faith in Him alone I stand. Firmly held by His almighty hand. Fully trusting in His promise. Praise the Lord.

Nothing is impossible when you put your trust in God. Nothing is impossible when you are trusting in His Word. Hearken to the voice of God to thee. “Is there anything too hard for me?” Then put your trust in God alone and rest upon His Word. For everything, O everything. O everything. Yes, everything is possible with God!

I found the joy of living, perfect love, contentment, happiness, and wonderful peace of mind when I found the Lord. Praise Him! So forget about yourself and worship Him, Christ the Lord.

Majesty. Worship His majesty. Unto Jesus be all glory and praise. Exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus. Worship, magnify, glorify, honor, and praise HIM. Jesus who died, now glorified. King of all kings.

Note: References and quotation marks are purposely omitted as are authors and titles. Bathe in the truths. Saturate your mind with the truths. Glorify the Lord in His holiness. May God’s peace flood you heart, soul, and mind in 2016.

In His love,

Norma Whitcomb