Spiritual Journey Through Psalms 58-63

Posted on April 12, 2023 by Mark Shields

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been looking at ways to apply the word found in Psalms 58-63 and sharing some thoughts that not only can benefit you now but also help the next generation too! The greatest of all possessions one can hand off to future generations are the guiding principles taught from the Word of God.

A main thought from reading Psalm 58 is that life is not always fair but you can be a part of creating a better future by first going to God in prayer and listening to the voice of truth. This voice will lay out a level path so the race can be run fairly. The advantage will then belong to the righteous for securing daily wins that lead to final victory.

In life, there are all these negative emotions like jealousy, fear, frustration, and anxiety. They become our enemies but a lesson from Psalm 59 is that the more we have hope for brighter days ahead, the more our frame of mind contributes to favorable conclusions. That’s one benefit of reading the Bible. We read about how God’s power and mercy releases negative emotions, so a load is lifted as we step ahead along the journey.

Noted after reading Psalm 60 is that the nation of Israel had been slipping and suffered defeat after defeat until David began to pray and provide the leadership they needed. This day, let us be disciplined enough to go to God in prayer, work the plan, and be patient as God sets things up for the plan to be carried out.

David was at a turning point as brought out in Psalm 61. A thought from reading this passage was the need to take advantage of the opportunities each day brings to go to God in prayer and dream big dreams together. With God’s helping hand along with some trustworthy friends to assist, these aspirations can become reality.

A takeaway from Psalm 62 is the need to pray. God is interested in our future and that’s why He sent a Savior. If we desire to be a blessing to others by telling them about God’s love, it will come to pass that we will be blessed in abundance.

A thought from reading Psalm 63 is how much spiritual treasure is available because of technology today which allows us to always stay connected for spiritual pick-me-ups at anytime and anyplace. The Internet makes it easy to look up Bible verses and receive inspiration from other bloggers. Also, with opportunities to start or end the day listening to worship songs or share with friends.

Keep up with my spiritual journey over the next few weeks either through following this blog by clicking the follow button on the top right side of this page or by liking the Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey. Let’s share thoughts or ideas about applying our faith as we step ahead along the path to victory.

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Spiritual Treasure Available

Posted on April 11, 2023 by Mark Shields 

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. – Matthew 6:19-21

Mentioned in “Just a click away” are the spiritual treasure available because of technology today which allows us to always stay connected for spiritual pick-me-ups at anytime and anyplace. The Internet makes it easy to look up Bible verses, be inspired by praise videos, or share with friends.

Just a click away is a spiritual pick-me-up from the song Worthy of My Song by Maverick City Music featuring Phil Wickham & Chandler Moore.

Index of devotionals

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Just A Click Away

Posted on April 10, 2023 by Mark Shields

Reading today in Psalm 63, David is going through a rough time. He’s been driven from the throne by his son Absalom and is headed across the wilderness away from Jerusalem. He doesn’t miss the money, the power, or respect of being a king. What he misses most is God’s house where he can feel God’s power and glory.

Because of Jesus in our heart, the power and glory resides inside. Technology today allows us to always stay connected for spiritual pick-me-ups at anytime and anyplace. Just a click away, the Internet makes it easy to look up Bible verses, be inspired by praise videos, or share with friends.

David wants protection from enemies and he’s confident that they will be destroyed if they try to overthrow him as king. David is satisfied with singing praises to God. Praise and worship is evidence that God is at work in our life. Our enemy wants to lie and deceive us but like David, we can be satisfied by praise and worship.

So this day with God, step ahead of the enemy that deceives and lies. Step ahead of hate, iniquity, and other corrupting influences in your life that keep you down; instead desire the authenticity, sincerity and certainty that God provides. Use technology to make a positive impact on your life. Just a click away are scriptures, sermons, Christian blogs, and uplifting music. Available from any place or any time just by using your phone, computer, or tablet.

Lord, there is many corrupting influences we face in this world. Help us to clear out these negative influences and be filled up with the treasures of the Holy Spirit. If we have the treasures of the Spirit, we have all things. We come to You today for this help and know that the possibilities are unlimited when we step ahead each day following Your way. We are focused today on Jesus who provides the better Way. Amen.

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Fill Your Basket

Posted on April 9, 2023 by Mark Shields 
Christ came to give a gift
Which is the gift of grace
That changes your life 
To finish the race.

The gift of salvation
That is unearned
Or undeserved
But is confirmed.

It’s what He chose
On the cross to do
But then He arose
With new life for you.

So loosen up,
Move your legs,
And run like a child
Claiming your eggs.

Filling your basket
With food for the soul.
A drink of the Spirit
That makes you whole.

Poem by Mark Shields – © 04-09-2023

Photo – Easter 2023

Poem Inspired by Sermon of Ryan Barnett, 04-02-2023

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Step Ahead To Easter

Posted on April 7, 2023 by Mark Shields 

The winter no longer
Cold and blistery
As new growth of spring
Fills us with mystery.

The event of Easter    
Took us from despair
To hope as the tomb
Was suddenly bare.

Reminding us now
Of God’s love
That fills us with joy
From up above.

Refueling the soul
And instructive
For the best way
To be productive.

To step ahead 
As we journal
Along the clear path
To life eternal. 

Poem by Mark Shields – © 04-01-2021
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