The Plumbline

We can get fatigued - it is natural for the body to run down, the mind following just about as quickly.  What gets us to the point of fatigue may be the day-to-day activities of life, or the totally unexpected event which happens in an instant and demands all of our energies to remedy.  After having undergone knee replacement this past week, I am feeling the fatigue of my body having to adjust to the new device, the influence of pain medications, and the pain associated with swelling from the tremendous manipulation of the knee to accomplish the procedure.  It is a physical fatigue, but it has taken a toll on my mind, as well.  I genuinely get to the point of needing to just "shut down" - a rarity for me as most will tell you! When fatigue gets to us, we all respond a little differently - my usual response is to just move a little slower, take a little longer to process, but not to totally "shut down" and nap.  I have a good friend who enjoys those afternoon na...

Did you ever stop to think about angels stopping to take notice of each and every word of praise and thanks you utter into the heavenlies?  Well, scripture bears witness to the fact they do (Psalm 138:1).  I never really thought about it before - the fact others are listening to my praise.  When I do, it makes me a little self-conscious at first, but then I realize they are just stopping to listen because these words of praise and thanksgiving are just a sweet, sweet melody in the ears of those who occupy heavenly realms - God includes his angels in that company!  The most "telling" part of praise and thanksgiving is being able to really "tell" God what it is you are grateful for - specifically and purposefully.  In the case of our psalmist, his purpose for his words of praise are quite specific:   The moment I called out, you stepped in;  you made my life large with strength .  (vs. 3)  He had laid his heart bare before God, seeking his int...