Today's Readings and Stuff -- Saturday, 27 August 2016

The last Saturday in the month of August.  September, and Autumn, will be here before we know it.  Then October and all the rest.  When we made our relocation from the Deep South to NE Ohio three years ago, we went from an area that essentially NEVER sees snow, and certainly not in quantity, to one that had snow in October.  Not an improvement as I measure such things.  So, even though we are in the low 80's today, snowfall will be here all too soon. The Old Farmers' Almanac tells us that this is expected to be an unusually cold and bitter winter here.  Not what I wanted to hear.  But it's out of my hands, as most things are. 

Dear Wife is sleeping in the recliner near me, a small black kitten with her.  A few weeks ago, we were prevailed upon to take in an orphan kitten, tiny thing, whose mother and siblings, feral all, had been sleeping on top of the tires of niece's car, and didn't get off in time.  And were run over and killed.  Only this one survived.  So, Dear Wife took it.  Tiny thing.  Scared and hungry and filthy.  We -- meaning Dear Wife -- have been cuddling her and all that.  Yours Truly got dragooned into feeding her, and setting up a litter pan that needs frequent care.  Little Kitty has been tentatively named "Princess Squeak", as her frequent vocalizations sound like a squeak, not a purr nor meow or anything else vaguely cat-like.  Squeak.  My sister-in-law was supposed to come get her.  Two weeks ago.  She's not real good at keeping her word in anything, and this looks like yet another example.  So there we are.

Tomorrow I have been asked to lead the adult Bible Study time, so I guess I will.  Lots going through the mind, things that need to be said, things that need to be drawn out, life changes of all of us that need to take place. 
I'd also been approached to lead the singing -- the gentleman who normally does this was supposed to work.  Fortunately he was notified that the scheduled O.T. had been cancelled.  My natural voice is a bit below the normal basso range, heading into contra-bass territory (not quite to J.D. Sumner range but pretty close), and singing lead, singing melody, is just something that I haven't done since I was about 14 or so.  LONG time ago.  I would have tried to carry it out if necessary, but probably not my best avenue there.  But the issue will probably come up again and I guess I'll need to be ready.

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The Old Testament passage for the day is Psalms 132 through Psalm 135. 

Psalm 132

1 Lord, remember David, and all his afflictions: 2 How he sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob; 3 Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; 4 I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids, 5 Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob. 6 Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood. 7 We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool. 8 Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength. 9 Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy. 10 For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed. 11 The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. 12 If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore. 13 For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation. 14 This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it. 15 I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. 16 I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy. 17 There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed. 18 His enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon himself shall his crown flourish.

Psalm 133

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; 3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

Psalm 134

1 Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD. 2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD. 3 The LORD that made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion.

Psalm 135

1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise ye the name of the LORD; praise him, O ye servants of the LORD. 2 Ye that stand in the house of the LORD, in the courts of the house of our God. 3 Praise the LORD; for the LORD is good: sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant. 4 For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure. 5 For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods. 6 Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. 7 He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings for the rain; he bringeth the wind out of his treasuries. 8 Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast. 9 Who sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants. 10 Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings; 11 Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan: 12 And gave their land for an heritage, an heritage unto Israel his people. 13 Thy name, O LORD, endureth for ever; and thy memorial, O LORD, throughout all generations. 14 For the LORD will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants. 15 The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. 16 They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not; 17 They have ears, but they hear not; neither is there any breath in their mouths. 18 They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them. 19 Bless the LORD, O house of Israel: bless the LORD, O house of Aaron: 20 Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD. 21 Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

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Our New Testament reading is chapter 8 from 1st Corinthians.

I Corinthians 8

1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. 2 And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. 3 But if any man love God, the same is known of him. 4 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. 5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) 6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 7 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled. 8 But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. 9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of your's become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. 10 For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; 11 And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? 12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. 13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

Today's Readings and Stuff -- Friday, 26 August 2016

Sigh.  The last Friday in August.  A week from now, Lord willing, will be shudder September.  Yuck!!  Meaning Winter, an Ohio winter, a NORTHERN Ohio winter at that, is not far away.  Yuck!!

Up early this morning, and that after a not-much-sleep night.  Wife has a doctor appointment.  Doctor moved earlier this year, he'd been just a couple miles from here, more than walking distance, but no big deal.  He is, like all too many these days, essentially a well-compensated employee of one of those healthcare systems based around a couple of hospitals and clinics, all forced upon an unwilling nation by the vile wretches who force the abomination of Obamacare upon us.  He started to "get the drift" of Big  Changes coming, and shifted from one of these systems to another.  As a result, we now have to make a l-o-o-o-o-o-ng drive to around the southern third of the county south of us.  We're located around midway in this county, so we're going a long way.  Not just as the crow flies, but the trip about requires driving on the various Interstates and limited access highways.  Brings us out about half a mile from our destination, but the miles traveled are not quite double what the crow flies distance would be.  So instead of a 5-10 minute drive, it's about a 45 minute drive.  Each way.  So, for her 08:00 appointment, we left at 07:10, got there about 07:51.  In there for a bit under an hour, then home.  We had some deliveries due today, courtesy of UPS and the US Mail, and we needed to be there to receive them.  So home.  Finally stuff arrived while she was taking a nap.  She woke.  We had errands to run, one being to the cell phone joint to deal with a minor issue.  Afterwards, she needed to a prescription filled, one they were calling in.  So we went to the Big Box store whose pharmacy was to fill the prescription.  Which they hadn't received yet.  We had them call the doctor, went and got some fill-in items, came back.  Doctor office hadn't picked up phone, they left a message, we promised to come back tomorrow.  Home.  En route home, got an urgent message from next-door niece: she got called into work early, so we flew in the drive, made a sandwich for Dear Wife, and she went across the back yard to help "watch" the Little One.

I'm here, doing laundry and such, dealing with the niece's dog (I am NOT a dog lover, not at all), and some around-the-house stuff.  Wife should be home in about half an hour.  I have clothes in the dryer now.

What fun!

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The Old Testament reading today is Psalms 128, 129, 130, and 131.

Psalm 128

1 Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. 2 For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. 3 Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. 4 Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. 5 The LORD shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life. 6 Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, and peace upon Israel.

Psalm 129

1 Many a time have they afflicted me from my youth, may Israel now say: 2 Many a time have they afflicted me from my youth: yet they have not prevailed against me. 3 The plowers plowed upon my back: they made long their furrows. 4 The LORD is righteous: he hath cut asunder the cords of the wicked. 5 Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Zion. 6 Let them be as the grass upon the housetops, which withereth afore it groweth up: 7 Wherewith the mower filleth not his hand; nor he that bindeth sheaves his bosom. 8 Neither do they which go by say, The blessing of the LORD be upon you: we bless you in the name of the LORD.

Psalm 130

1 Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD. 2 Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. 3 If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? 4 But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. 5 I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. 6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning. 7 Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. 8 And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

Psalm 131

1 Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. 2 Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child. 3 Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever.

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The New Testament reading is verses 25-40 in chapter 7 of 1st Corinthians.

I Corinthians 7:25-40

25 Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful. 26 I suppose therefore that this is good for the present distress, I say, that it is good for a man so to be. 27 Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. 28 But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you. 29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; 30 And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; 31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away. 32 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: 33 But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. 34 There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. 35 And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. 36 But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry. 37 Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well. 38 So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better. 39 The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. 40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

Today's Reading and Stuff -- Thursday, 25 August 2016

in a bit of a recovery mode today.  Had a long meeting with the pastor yesterday afternoon.  Still trying to digest it all.
Dear Wife is next door to "watch" the Beloved Great Niece.  Good for both of them.. The Little One is VERY 3-1/2 these days, not a huge improvement from the "Terrible Twos", and a whole lot more mobile than she was then.  But snoozing right now: it appears she was up and around at 05:30 this morning, so mom and dad were too.  She ran and ran until she fell over, and Wife is very wisely letting her sleep. 
My new cell phone is supposed to be delivered tomorrow, at which point we expect to take a trip to the local cell phone joint to assist in the data transfer and setup.
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The Old Testament reading:  Psalms 124 through 127

Psalm 124

1 If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, now may Israel say; 2 If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us: 3 Then they had swallowed us up quick, when their wrath was kindled against us: 4 Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul: 5 Then the proud waters had gone over our soul. 6 Blessed be the LORD, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth. 7 Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

Psalm 125

1 They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. 2 As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever. 3 For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity. 4 Do good, O LORD, unto those that be good, and to them that are upright in their hearts. 5 As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the LORD shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity: but peace shall be upon Israel.

Psalm 126

1 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. 2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them. 3 The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. 4 Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south. 5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

Psalm 127

1 Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. 2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep. 3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. 4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. 5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

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The New Testament reading is verses 1-24 of 1st Corinthians chapter 7

I Corinthians 7:1-24

1 Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. 5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. 6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. 7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. 8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. 9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. 10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. 12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. 13 And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. 15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. 16 For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife? 17 But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches. 18 Is any man called being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

Today's Readings and Stuff -- Wednesday, 24 August 2016

Interesting day.  I'd been contacted by the pastor at the church we've been attending (but have not moved our "letter" of membership to), asking for a private off-site meeting with me at a local coffee joint.  On him, yet.  So, sure.  Went.  Very very interesting, glad I went.  Not sure yet what will become of it, I'd led the morning adult Bible study this last Sunday and am scheduled to do likewise this coming Sunday.  Not a problem: among other things I'd been serving in a similar role in churches in Arkansas, Tennessee, and Alabama over the last 20-some years, and it's probably my calling.  Not to be taken lightly, but there is joy in doing the Lord's bidding.  But, anyway, we shall see.

Wife is feeling a little bit better, but again, we shall see.  Doctor appointment Friday, got the reminder call just a little bit ago.

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The Old Testament passage:  Psalms 120, 121,122, 123

Psalm 120

1 In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me. 2 Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue. 3 What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue? 4 Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper. 5 Woe is me, that I sojourn in Mesech, that I dwell in the tents of Kedar! 6 My soul hath long dwelt with him that hateth peace. 7 I am for peace: but when I speak, they are for war.

Psalm 121

1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. 2 My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. 6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. 8 The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Psalm 122

1 I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. 2 Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. 3 Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together: 4 Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD. 5 For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. 6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. 7 Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces. 8 For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee. 9 Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good.

Psalm 123

1 Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. 2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us. 3 Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us: for we are exceedingly filled with contempt. 4 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud.

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The New Testament reading:  1st Corinthians 6

I Corinthians 6

1 Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? 4 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. 5 I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 6 But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 7 Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? 8 Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. 9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. 13 Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. 14 And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. 15 Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. 16 What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. 17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. 18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

Today's Readings and Stuff --- Tuesday, 23 August 2016

Another weird day, not quite as weird as yesterday, but weird.
Wife is doing a very little bit better.  She spent a few hours in the late afternoon with the Beloved Great Niece next door, the few hours between mom going to work and dad getting home.  Short time, but they both enjoyed it.  And it about wore her out.  We ate a bit and I just got done putting lidocaine on the sore spots on her foot and ankle, the areas that underwent surgery more than 11 months ago.  Still has not fully healed.  Soft tissue recovery is always an issue, and the surgery not only involved break and re-set of some bones in the foot, but substantial amounts of soft tissue rearrangement.  She doesn't heal well under the best of circumstances, and right now can't be described as "best".

We're in the last full week of  August.  It's technically still summer.  But things will be changing, and soon, and for the worse.  Much worse.  I would not be surprised to see SNOW here two months from now.  That would be late October.  Yes, it's that soon.  As a kid, I can remember trick-or-treating in snow.  Can happen again.  Some predictions are for a very cold, bitter, snowy, very cold, nasty winter.  Beginning soon.  Too soon.  And lasting a long time.  Very long.  I hate winter.  Didn't mind it TOO much when in Lower Alabama.  Wasn't too awful in west central Arkansas.  Got a bit too exciting some times in East Tennessee, we were in the mountains after all.  North East Ohio, in the Snow Belt, and not that far from the Great Lakes (implying the Canadian border).

And in just over two weeks, Lord willing, we will celebrate our 28th wedding anniversary.  She has been such a blessing to me, and to many others as well.  The Lord put us together when neither of us was looking.  He knew better.

I have a meeting early tomorrow afternoon with the pastor of the church we've been attending.  I have not officially moved my "letter" of membership, but it's probably time.  I was asked to conduct the adult Bible study last Sunday, and plans are for me to do likewise this coming Sunday.

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The Old Testament passage here is verses 105-176 of Psalm 119

Psalm 119:105-176

 

105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. 

106 I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.  

107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word. 

108 Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments.  

109 My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.  

110 The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts. 

111 Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart. 

112 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.  

113 I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.  

114 Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.  

115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God. 

116 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.  

117 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.  

118 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.  

119 Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.  

120 My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments. 

121 I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors.  

122 Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me.  

123 Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness. 

124 Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.  

125 I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies.  

126 It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law.  

127 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. 

128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way. 129 Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.  

130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. 

131 I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments. 

132 Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name.  

133 Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.  

134 Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts. 

135 Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes. 

136 Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law.  

137 Righteous art thou, O LORD, and upright are thy judgments.  

138 Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.  

139 My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words. 

140 Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. 

141 I am small and despised: yet do not I forget thy precepts.  

142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth. 

143 Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me: yet thy commandments are my delights.  

144 The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall live. 

145 I cried with my whole heart; hear me, O LORD: I will keep thy statutes.  

146 I cried unto thee; save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies. 

147 I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word.  

148 Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.  

149 Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment.  

150 They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.  

151 Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.  

152 Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.  

153 Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law.  

154 Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word.  

155 Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes. 

156 Great are thy tender mercies, O LORD: quicken me according to thy judgments.  

157 Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies.  

158 I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word. 

159 Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O LORD, according to thy lovingkindness.  

160 Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. 

161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.  

162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.  

163 I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love.  

164 Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.  

165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.  

166 LORD, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments. 

167 My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.  

168 I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee. 

169 Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding according to thy word.  

170 Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word. 

171 My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes. 

172 My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.  

173 Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts. 

174 I have longed for thy salvation, O LORD; and thy law is my delight.  

175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me.  

176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

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The New Testament reading is 1st Corinthians chapter 5

I Corinthians 5

 

1 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. 

2 And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. 

3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,  

4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,  

5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.  

6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?  

7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: 

 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.  

9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:  

10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.  

11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.  

12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

Today's Readings and Stuff -- Monday, 22 August 2016

Happy Monday to all!
We had yet more rain last night, more of that "drought" that all the eco-nut greenies loudly prophesied would be our lot for this summer.  Wrong.  As they almost always are.  Which never seems to shut these loons up..Too busy congratulating each other on their shared superiority, one supposes.  Whatever.
Dear Wife is next door. "watching" the Beloved Great-Niece.   She seems to be doing a little bit better, courtesy of the big -- and I do mean BIG -- doses of the steroids that the doc put her on.  Big stuff.  Lets her breathe, which is A Good Thing indeed.

An old hymn, one I remember from childhood but rarely hear these days, came into mind Saturday night.  Still there.  Here it is.  Enjoy, I am.
Here

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Today in the Old Testament we have verses 49-104 of  Psalm 119.

Psalm 119:49-104

49 Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope. 50 This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me. 51 The proud have had me greatly in derision: yet have I not declined from thy law. 52 I remembered thy judgments of old, O LORD; and have comforted myself. 53 Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law. 54 Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. 55 I have remembered thy name, O LORD, in the night, and have kept thy law. 56 This I had, because I kept thy precepts. 57 Thou art my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words. 58 I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word. 59 I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. 60 I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments. 61 The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy law. 62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments. 63 I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts. 64 The earth, O LORD, is full of thy mercy: teach me thy statutes. 65 Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word. 66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments. 67 Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word. 68 Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes. 69 The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart. 70 Their heart is as fat as grease; but I delight in thy law. 71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes. 72 The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. 73 Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. 74 They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word. 75 I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me. 76 Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant. 77 Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight. 78 Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts. 79 Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies. 80 Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed. 81 My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word. 82 Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me? 83 For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes. 84 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? 85 The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law. 86 All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me. 87 They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts. 88 Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth. 89 For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. 90 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. 91 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. 92 Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. 93 I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. 94 I am thine, save me: for I have sought thy precepts. 95 The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies. 96 I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad. 97 O how I love thy law! it is my meditation all the day. 98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. 99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. 100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts. 101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word. 102 I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me. 103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! 104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.

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Our time in the New Testament includes chapter 4 of 1st Corinthians.

I Corinthians 4

1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. 6 And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another. 7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? 8 Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God ye did reign, that we also might reign with you. 9 For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men. 10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised. 11 Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace; 12 And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: 13 Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day. 14 I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. 15 For though ye have ten thousand instructers in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. 17 For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church. 18 Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. 19 But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power. 20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. 21 What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?

Today's Readings and Stuff -- Sunday, 21 August 2016

Quite a day.
I was asked to address the group in the morning Bible Study at the church, with reference to personal experiences and the book of James.  I did so.  Perhaps it was the words the Lord wanted to be uttered.

Wife is looking a bit better.  She even came outside for a few minutes, talking with next-door niece.  Hasn't been up to that for more than a week, so every little hopeful sign means a lot.

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The Old Testament passage is verses 1-48 of Psalm 119.  This Psalm is very very long.  Needed to be.

Psalm 119:1-48

1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. 2 Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. 3 They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. 4 Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. 5 O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! 6 Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. 7 I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. 8 I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly. 9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. 10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 12 Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. 13 With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. 14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. 15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. 16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. 17 Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. 18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. 19 I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me. 20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. 21 Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. 22 Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. 23 Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. 24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors. 25 My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word. 26 I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes. 27 Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works. 28 My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. 29 Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously. 30 I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me. 31 I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame. 32 I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. 33 Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. 34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. 35 Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. 36 Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. 37 Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way. 38 Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear. 39 Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good. 40 Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness. 41 Let thy mercies come also unto me, O LORD, even thy salvation, according to thy word. 42 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word. 43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments. 44 So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever. 45 And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. 46 I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed. 47 And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved. 48 My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

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The New Testament passage for the evening is chapter 3  of 1st Corinthians. 

I Corinthians 3

1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? 5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? 6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. 10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. 20 And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. 21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are your's; 22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are your's; 23 And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.