March 30, 2012: The Blessing of Being Laid Bare

3 gifts uncovered:

• me, after sleeping in this morning.  The gift of a day off with no specific plans.
• truth, from a discussion with a friend today.  Calling myself a realist is often just doubt in disguise.
• my heart, by God's Word. It is able to discern my thoughts and intentions, exposing me for what I really am.  For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.  Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:12-13
  

March 14, 2012: Quiet Gifts

3 gifts in silence:

• knowing.  Psalm 46:10 says Be still and know that I am God.  It's in the stillness, the silence that we meet God.  It's difficult to discern hear his voice in the midst of the noisy din and chaos of our daily lives.  It's not that he can't or won't speak there, it's just too hard for us to hear him.
• pleasure.  I love being alone in my house during the day.  I almost never turn on the radio or TV.  I just enjoy the solitude.  Weird, I know.
• ringing.  I have tinnitus, ringing in my ears.  It is non-relenting. I hate it, but I am counting it because God allows it and so I must believe he has a purpose for it.  Perhaps he is teaching me patience (he is always teaching me patience, it seems--I wish I was a faster learner), or to slow down and listen more carefully.