Shade tree wisdom 12/31/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/31/2016 The best way to end the year is to remember this. “Lord, you have been Our dwelling place In all generations.” Psalm 90,1 Remember the bed room of parishioner where the wall showed this motto, “God is near”. I thought wonderful to see that just before going to sleep. GPD 12/31/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/30/2016 Always a sure help in any trouble, and our God is never too busy to take time to listen to our needs. “Behold, the Lord’s hand Is not shortened that It cannot save, or His ear dull That it cannot hear.” Isaiah 59,1 Isaiah has in mind such times when a mother or father is working at something they can’t put off right then, so they tend to say,” not now, can’t you see I’m busy”? GPD 12/30/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/28/2016 The Savior is born and Isaiah says. “For I am the Lord your God, The Holy one of Israel, your Savior. . . Because you are precious I n my eyes, and honored.” Isaiah 43,3.4. Yes, because Jesus m came to save us from all of our sins ,Isaiah can say God honors us as righteous. GPD 12/28/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/27/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/27/2016 The message of the angels still sounds clearly, and daily. “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth Peace among those With whom He is pleased.” Luke 2,14 Because Jesus came to earth, His work here won for us peace with God. How comforting this message. GPD 12/27/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/24/2016 It’s Christmas eve already. Centuries ago Isaiah prophesied. “Behold, the virgin shall Conceive and bear A Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7,14 The name means “God with us”. A Son is, born to pay for our sins on the cross. So we celebrate Christmas. GPD 12/24/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/22/2016 Jesus was walking along when a woman with a sick daughter came to Him. He ignored her, but she persisted. So Jesus said to her: “Woman great is your faith, Be done for you as You desire.” And he daughter was healed instantly. Matthew 15,27. Our Heavenly Father hears, and answers, our prayers, as is best for us, always. GPD 12/22/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/21/2016 Iin On our life’s journey, we always have this promise. “I am the Lord, that is My name; and my glory I give To no other, nor my Praise to graven images.” Isaiah 42,8 That is indeed comforting to know that our God, the Almighty God is always near to hear and to help. GPD 12/21/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/20/2016 St. Paul calls us “a new creation”, and that is just what we are by our Baptism. “Therefore, if anyone is In Christ, he is a new Creation, the old has Passed, behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5, 17 In baptism our sins are washed away, so the Apostle calls us a new creation. The washing of water combined with the Word is what does it. GPD 12/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/18/2016 Regrets. I wish I hadn’t said that, or I wish I hadn’t done that. We all live with regrets. So St. Paul assures us. “For freedom Christ has Set us free; stand firm Therefore, and do not Submit again to a yoke Of bondage.” Galatians 5,1. So let’s stand firm and don’t, give way when Satan prods us. We are forgiven all our sins. GPD 12/18/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/15/2016 We sing, “The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord”. “What then is this that Is written,?” “The stone That the builders rejected Has become the head Of the corner.” Luke 20,17 Rejected by His own people, Jesus nevertheless is the Truth on which His Church stands. GPD 12/15/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/14/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/14/2016 Humility is often hard to obtain, for most of think since we have things to offer, there is a good reason to be proud. Jesus puts it this way. “Whoever humbles like This child is the Greatest in the kingdom Of heaven. Matthew 18,4 No, we do not have salvation because we deserved it. Instead it is “By grace are ye saved. . .it is a gift of God, not of works.” Jesus won it by his death on the cross. GPD 12/14/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/13/2016 “Think before you speak.” That is a bit of wisdom most us have learned early on, either from our parents, or when we said something to someone on the playground that ended up in a fight, because we insulted someone. This is what the Psalmist says. “Set a guard, O Lord, over My mouth; keep watch over The door of my lips. Psalm 141, 3. I believe most of must of us know the truth of this, learned often from personal experience. So indeed “Keep watch over the door of my lips” is good advice. GPD 12/13/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/12/2016 Our God makes no mistakes. When God was about to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah because “Their sin is very grave.” Abraham pleaded for them in case there were even ten righteous. He said. “Shall not the judge of All the earth do what is just?” Genesis18,25. God listened to Abraham’s plea and told him even for 10 righteous He would not carry out His threatened punishment. God loves us, is tender in His loving. We can depend on this truth. GPD12/12/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/11/2016 Some folks just don’t believe there is a God. This is the person described in this Psalm. “The fool says I his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none\ who does good.” Psalm 14,1 And why should they otherwise? There is no one they feel responsible to. Sad indeed. GPD 12/11/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/9/2016 The Old Testament prophet Isaiah tells us this bit of wisdom. “You keep him in perfect Peace whose mid is stayed Because he trustShade Tree Wisdom 12/9/2016 The Old Testament prophet Isaiah tells us this bit of wisdom. “You keep him in perfect Peace whose mid is stayed Because he trust In You.” Isaiah 26,3. St. Paul tells, Romans 5,1, “Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God. “ And what better news is there than to have such peace? GPD 12/9/16 In You.” Isaiah 26,3. St. Paul tells, Romans 5,1, “Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God. “ And what better news is there than to have such peace? GPD 12/9/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/8/2016 So long as we live, we always need guiding and directing. We reach some cross road and we wonder, “Which way is the right one?” And it for that we read this. “ I am a sojourner on earth, Hide not Your commandments From me.” 119, 119. The reason we need this prayer is that the devil is always after us, trying to confuse and misdirect our going. GPD 12/8/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/7/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/7/2016 When he was an old John writes letters of advice and encouragement to his people. He said. “If we confess or sis, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1,9 That’s the kind of letter any pastor might write to his members, for it brings the comforting news that our sins are gone! Indeed, the Psalm assures us they are drowned in the depths of the sea. GPD 12/7/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/6/2016 Paul and Silas were in prison when there was an earthquake that sprung all the doors and opened them. The jailor, thinking prisoners had escaped, was about to commit suicide when Paul called and told him no one had left. So the jailor said to Paul, “What must I do to be saved?” Paul’s reply, the simple Gospel. “Believe in the Lord Jesus, And you will be saved, You and your household. And they spoke the Word Of the Lord unto him and All that were in his house. Acts 16, 31.32 When the problems of life seem to have no end, remember you believe in Jesus, You have a savior. It is often surprising how this brightens your life. Try it, and be surprised when you call on your Savior, remembering when He was saying on the cross He had us in mind when He said, “It is finished”! GPD 12/6/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/4/2016 And that makes all the difference. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd, The good shepherd, lays Down His life for The sheep.” John 10,11. He does this not to give us an example, but did it as a sacrifice to pay for the sins of all. GPD 12/4/6

Shade tree wisdom 12/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/2/2016 The Gospel alone can bring light to our sin-darkened hearts. Isaiah tells us. “The people who walked in Darkness have seen a great Light; and those who dwell In a land of deep darkness. On them has a light shined.” Isaiah 9,2 So we must be eternally grateful to have seen this Gospel light that brightens our sin-filled life. GPD 12/2/16

Shade tree wisdom 12/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/1/2016 In his conversation with his friend Job said. “Since his days are determined, And the number of his Months are with You, And You have determined his limits that he cannot pass.” Job 14, 5 King David said it this way, “My times are in Thy hands.” (Psalm 31,15). This is a truth we ought never lose sight of, for or lives really are in God’s loving hands. GPD 12/1/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/30/2016 It’s really good to know this. “Whether we live, Or whether we die, We are the Lord’s Romans 14,8 I remember as a small boy at a picnic getting lost and looking for mother, and the relief when I saw that familiar person coming toward me with a smile on her face. That’s what St. Paul is telling us here. God has us as his children. GPD 11/30/16

Shade tree wisdom 111/29/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/29/2016 So here’s a good question for any Christian. “How can we who have Died to sin still live in it? Romans 6, 2 There lies the problem for many Christians. How can you sin when in baptism Jesus washed you clean? It is a question we ought to be quite familiar with that is, if we are serious in our Christian life. GPD 11/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/28/2016 “For all have sinned, And fall short of The glory of God.” Romans 3,23. That apostle in Romans speaks a truth that is true. No one is perfect, though some may be better in their behavior than some others, but the truth remains, we are all sinners in need of the salvation won by Christ on the cross. GPD 11/28/16

Shade tee wisdom 11/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/26/2016 As Jesus was coming along since Zacchaeus was short he climbed a tree to see better. Jesus spotted him there and asked him to come, down so they could visit. Then Jesus said: “The Son of man came to seek and Save the lost.” Luke 19,10 And that’s the good news for us who are numbered among the lost. For we are sinners saved by Jesus dying on the cross. GPD 11/26/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/25/2016 One time Jesus said to His disciples: “If you abide in My word, You are truly my disciples, And you will know the truth, And the truth will set you free.” John 8,31 When we know and accept all the teachings of Jesus, we will know and accept the truth of forgiveness won by His blood on the cross. GPD 11/25/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/24/2016 Today is Thanksgiving day on which we show our thanks for many blessings. St. Paul reminds us. “Giving thanks always and For everything in the name In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5,20. Too often we forget to thank folks for what they do for us, don’t we? We so often take so much for granted as our due. A simple example is that lunch we just ate. Did we say thanks, to God and the loving hands that prepared the meal? GPD 11/24/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/23/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/23/2016 No prayer to God goes, unheard or unanswered ,ever. “O Lord, my God, I cried To you for help, And you have healed me.” Psalm 30,2 The Lord wants us to seek Him for anything and everything, no matter how small or trivial it might seem. He invites us to do just that. GPD 11/23/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/20/2016 According to my Portals of Prayer this is the last Sunday of the church year. I really don’t know since CPH no longer send me the pastor’s diary since I’m not active. But this psalm speaks to us all. Teach me, O Lord, the Way of Your statutes, Then I will keep It to the end.” Psalm 119, 33 All of us need help in keeping God’s laws, and the wise course is to ask God’s help to talk wisely. GPD 11/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/20/2016 According to my Portals of Prayer this is the last Sunday of the church year. I really don’t know since CPH no longer send me the pastor’s diary since I’m not active. But this psalm speaks to us all. Teach me, O Lord, the Way of Your statutes, Then I will keep It to the end.” Psalm 119, 33 All of us need help in keeping God’s laws, and the wise course is to ask God’s help to talk wisely. GPD 11/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/20/2016 According to my Portals of Prayer this is the last Sunday of the church year. I really don’t know since CPH no longer send me the pastor’s diary since I’m not active. But this psalm speaks to us all. Teach me, O Lord, the Way of Your statutes, Then I will keep It to the end.” Psalm 119, 33 All of us need help in keeping God’s laws, and the wise course is to ask God’s help to talk wisely. GPD 11/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/17/2016 Today is my 96th birthday. I thank God for Hiss mercy in giving me those years way beyond what Moses said in Psalm 90 “The years of our life are 70, Or even by reason of strength 80; Yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away.” Psalm 90,10 I do wish to share with you a hymn verse that has been much on my mind these days. “The Lord hath helped me hitherto By His surpassing favor; His mercies every morn are new, His kindness did not waver. God hitherto hath been my Guide, Hath pleasures hitherto supplied, \and hitherto hath helped me.” GPD ll/17/16

SHADE TREE WISDOM 11/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/16/2016 Not one is perfect. We are all sinners and are in a constant need for forgiveness, so this is the good news for us all. “But with You there is Forgiveness, that You May be feared.” Psalm 130,4 Feared here used in the sense of being held in awe by us. For is the mercy of God that brings us the forgiveness without it we could not be saved. GPD 11/16/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/14/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/14/2016 The way people live and act is the sure sign that sin is everywhere, with everyone. Paul tells us. “Sin entered the world Through one man, and Death trough sin, and In this way death came To all men, because All sinned.” Romans 5,12 That is what the Bible tells us. We are all sinners, none is righteous. So we have a constant need for the Savior’s forgiveness. Which is freely given because Christ died on the cross, and so paid the final penalty. Thank God for His mercy. GPD 11/14/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/12/2016 His promise is dependable, and we do rejoice. “Let us hold fast the confession Of our hope without wavering For He who promised Is faithful” Hebrews 10,23 God’s Word we can trust, and we do, and thank God for it. It a comfort to know and believe that Word. GPD 11/12/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/11/2016 Today is veterans day, declared so by congress in 1954 ( believe). It is a day set to remember our veterans and all they have done for us in America. Deployed around the world, they serve us selflessly to try to keep peace for all, and we gratefully remember. St. John reminds us: “Greater love Has no man than this, That someone lays down his Life his friend” John 15,13. When we enjoy freedom it is quite easy to forget the cost involved, so let us remember. GPD11/11/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/10/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/10/2016 We are truly blessed and fortunate if we know, and believe, this. “Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who Made us, and we are His; We are His people, and The sheep of His Pasture.” Psalm 100,3 That is what the scriptures call those who believe Jesus I their Savior from sin. How fortunate are we, and how blessed. GPD 11/10/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/9/2016 For us, time often seems precious, we have so much to do and ofte simply run out of time to do things we wanted to do, or even needed to do. So this verse from Psalm 90 tells us about God’s time. “For a thousand years in Your sight are but as yesterday When it is past, or as a Watch in the night.” Psalm 90,4. God is simply time- less. He never “runs out of time”, because he is God. And God is God. GPD 11/9/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/8/2016 I wonder how we would react when we have some major disappointment? Like Job perhaps? “And he said, Naked I came forth From my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return. The Lord gave, and The Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord. In all this Job did not sin Orr charge God with wrong. Job 1,21,22. I wonder if we sometimes have a tendency to lay some blame on God for not paying attention when we have a real need? Think about it now and then GPD 11/8/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/7/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/7/2016 I pray we have all done this by voting. “Then He said to them, Render unto Caesar the That are Caesar’s, and unto God that things that are God’s.” Matthew 22,9 Maybe the final debates have been said, and the new president will be busy selecting his team to help him in this enormous task of running the country safely. For this, the president will need our continual prayers to Almighty God. GPD 11/7/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/6/2016 With the national elections nearing, it is well what St. Paul, Timothy, and Titus have to say about government, “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready To do what ever Is good.” Titus 3,1. If we keep those words in mind when we choose, we will have done what pleases God. GPD 11/6/16

Shad tree wisdom 11/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/4/2016 Jesus is speaking of the joy owners who lost something expressed when they found it again, and so He said, “Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner that repents.” Luke 14,30. And how is it among us Christians, do we see a new member as one more added to our numbers, or do we really rejoice because he saw his desperate need for the Savior, Jesus Christ? So he, too, will be in heaven because he is saved eternally? GPD 11/4/16

Shade tree wisdom 11/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/3/2016 St. Paul, in his second letter to young Pastor Timothy, touches on some of the difficulties he will face in his ministry So he writes. “And they come to their Senses, and escape from The snare of the devil, After being captured by him To do his will.” 2 Timothy 2, 26. We know the devil is always active, walking about seeking whom he may devour. And, I say this with sadness, even the best and strongest fall prey in moments of weakness. So Peter cautions, “whom resist steadfast in the faith”. We do have a weapon – our faith in the Savior from sin, our Lord. Jesus Christ. GPD 11/3/16

Shade tree wisdom 111/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/2/2016 There are times when these words seem true for us. “Why, O Lord, do you stand Far away? Why do You Hide yourself in times Of trouble? Psalm 10,1 There seem to be times in our lives when t does seem as if God is hiding. It just seems that way, because we know God is always near. GPD 11/2/16

Sade tree wisdom 11/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 11/1/2016 On November 1st,which the Church observes as All Saints day, I turn you to the Book of Revelation, where we read (7,14, 17b), this “These are the ones coming out of great tribulation. They have washed their robes And made them white in the Blood of the Lamb. . . And God will wipe away Every tear from their eye.” Revelation 7,14.17b This text has often served as a text for a Christian funeral, reminding the hearers that the blood of Jesus dying on the cross Cleansed the believer of all his sins, Thank God for His mercy. GPD 11/1/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/31/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/31/2016 It is well for us to remember ,why we call it that. Luther began the work of bringing Christians back to the faith taught in the Bible. “For it is by grace that you have Saved through faith. And This is not your own doing; It is the gift of God. Not the Result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2,8 That verse started the thought, It isn’t what we do, it’s all been done when Jesus died the cross. GPD 10/31/16

Sade tree wisdom 10/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/30/2016 When St. Paul was in Athens, debating and teaching about the Lord Jesus as Savior, they said to him, “For you bring some strange Things to out ears, we want To know that those things mean.” “That, of course, gave the apostle the right time to teach them who Jesus Christ was, and what He died to save them from, eternal hell. And that is exactly what Luther wanted to know when he posted his 95 thesis on the Church door in Wittenberg in 1517. Try to explain your false teaching if you can. GPD 110/30/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/28/2016 Luther wrote, about the devil, ‘on earth is not his equal’. St. Paul reminds us , however, that though we may be living where Satan is active, “In all these things we are More than conquerors Trough Him who loved us.” Romans 8,37 We are surrounded by much danger on every hand. But we can always prevail “through Him who loved us”. Indeed, loved us so much He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. GPD 10/28/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/27/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/27/2016 Here is verse one of Luther’s Reformation hymn for reflection This Sunday, October 30, Reformation day. “A mighty fortress is our God, A trusty shield and weapon. He helps us free from every need That hath us now o’er taken. The old evil foe, Now means deadly woe; Deep guile and great might, Are his dead arms In fight; On earth is not his equal. TLH 656,1 Many pay little attention to the Reformation, but history tells us of the very bitter struggle Luther had simply to tell us again that we are saved by grace alone. GPD 10/27/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/25/2016 So that’s what happened, God had a hand in my creation. “I praise You, because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;” Psalm 139, 14. The doctor who delivered 4 of our children said to me, “marvel at each birth, so wonderful.” GPD 10/25/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/24/2016 We are not alone, for Peter, speaking of the devil, says, “Resist him, standing firm In the faith, because you know That your brothers throughout The world are undergoing The same kind of suffering.” 1 Peter 5, 8.9. That ought to renew our strength for thee battle, which seems so unending, and yet, the victory is ours, for Jesus died and rose again to give us the victory, thank God. GPD 10/14/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/23/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/23/2016 Our God is all knowing, and we ought to be grateful for that. Though often when we do things we ought not be doing and so we might wish to hide from Him. Jeremiah asks. “Can anyone hide In secret places so that I cannot See Him?” declares the Lord. “Do not fill heaven and earth?” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 23,24. Since we are sinners, we often sin, that means we are doing something God does not approve, and we feel ashamed. But we can’t hide, but we can be forgiven and for that we n=must thank Our Gracious God ad Father. GPD 10/23/16

Shade tree wisdom 10/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/22/2016 Here’s the truth of it. “He saved us, not because of righteous Things we have done, but Because of His mercy.” Titus 3,5 And that’s the real truth. It is not because we are so good, or better than others, but God’s mercy extends to us out of His love in Christ, our Savior. GPD 10/22/16

shade tree wisdom 10/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 10/21/2016 It is so easy to do, that is forget that God always knows what’s going on. Like the incident when they were crossing the sea and a great storm arose while Jesus was sleeping. So “They woke him saying, “Lord, save us, we are perishing.” And He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you of little faith?” Matthew 8, 25.26 It happens that we pray for something and it doesn’t happen. We forget God hears our prayer and is busy with His solution. And so we get afraid. GPD 10/21/16

Shade tree wisdom 9/1-0/116

Shade Tree Wisdom 9/10/2016 James gives us the real reason. He says: “You do not have Because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, Because you ask wrongly, To spend it on your passions.” Maybe that is the real reason, we ask for selfish reasons Instead of having something to share with someone who is less fortunate. GPD 9/10/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/23/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/23/2016 From the Sermon on the Mount, this direction. “So, whatever you wish that Others would do to you, Do also to them, for this is The law and the prophets. Matthew 7,12. We often forget this simple rule just because it is so simple. It really is ‘tit for tat’, is it not? But by doing it our lives will benefit richly. GPD 8/23/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/20/2016 Psalm 12 is a cry for help. It ends with these words. “On every side the wicked Prowl, as vileness is exalted Among the children of men.” Psalm 12,8. When evil and wrong flourish, the Christian must cry to God for help. He can and does say with the poet, “It is well, it is well, for my soul”. GPD 8/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/19/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/19/2016 How do we use our church “And He entered the temple And began to drive out those who sold saying to them, “it is written, My House shall be a place of prayer but you have made it a den of robbers.” Luke 19,46. That raises an interesting question. How do we use our church? To worship and sing praise to God and pray? Or are we among those who come to see a relative and gossip? What’s your answer to this simple observation? GPD 8/19/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/7/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/17/2016 The verse from Psalm 31 tells us we are ever in God’s care. “My times are in Your hand,: Rescue me from the hand of My enemies, and from my persecutors. Make your face shine on your Servant; save me in your stead fast love.” Psalm 31, 15.16 That is a comforting prayer David spoke when he was in dire distress, And it is a prayer we might use to find comfort in our Caring God. GPD 8/7/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/16/2016 Let us remember that we live under God’s loving care, wherever we may wander. God is there. “For a man’s ways are before The eyes of the Lord, And He ponders all his paths.” Proverbs 5,21 Ponder, consider or examine closely. When we sin, we always sin against God. GPD 8/16/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/15/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/15/16 It is in our nature to worry and fret about things, So Jesus advises us. . . “There fore tell you, do not be Anxious about your life, what Yu will eat or what you will drink Nor about your body, what you Will put on. Is not life more than Food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, they Neither sow or reap or gather into barns, Yet your heavenly Father feeds them, Are you not of more value than they?” Matthew 6,25 We sit down to eat a meal, and wonder what’s next on the menu. Jesus puts it in perspective when he uses the birds as comparison does He not? GPD 8/15/116

Shade tree wisdom 8/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/9/2016 John ends his Gospel with these words. “Now there are also many other Things that Jesus did. Were every one of them To be written, I suppose That the world itself could Not contain the books That would be written.” John 21,25 But the most precious word for us is the salvation story that the Gospel, indeed, the entire Bible contains, Jesus came to save us, that is why He died on the cross, for us. GPD 8/9/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/6/2016 St. John wrote in his first letter these memorable words. “My little children, I am writing these things to you So that you may not sin. But If anyone does sin, we Have an Advocate with The Father, Jesus Christ, The righteous. He is the propitiation for Our sins, but not for ours Only, but also for the sins Of the world.” l John 2, 1.2 An advocate is one who pleads for another, states his case, as it were, asking for forgiveness. Or do something to make it right. In the case of our sins, they are not made right but, as Scripture teaches, drowned in the depths of thee sea,. In other words, they are gone, GPD 7/6/16

Shade tree wisdom 8/5/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 8/5/2016 This is something we so often take so lightly, don’t we? “If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to Forgive ours sins, and to Cleanse us from all Unrighteousness.” 1 John 1,9. There is a saying stating, ’confession is good for the soul’. It something we do so rarely, consciously, isn’t it, yet Jeremiah reminds us, in chapter 31, “I will remember your Sins no more” And it happens only because Jesus Christ paid the price for the sins of the world when He died on the cross. GPD 8/5/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/31/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 7/31/2016 Truly, what a great comfort to know this when God said. “And no longer shall each One teach his neighbor and Each his brother, saying, “Know the Lord”, for they Shall know me, from the least Of them to the greatest, Declares the Lord. For I shall forgive their iniquity, And remember their sins no more.” Jeremiah 31,34. What a promise, spoken because Jesus died on the cross to pay for the sins of all mankind. GPD 7/31/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 7/28/2016 When it’s all been heard. “Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed Into judgment, with every Secret thing, whether Good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12, 13.14 With that, the book ends, leaving it all in the hands of God, where it always belongs anyway. GPD 7/28/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 7/26/2016 We are not alone, for Hebrews tells us. “Therefore, since we are surrounded By a great cloud of witnesses Let us also lay aside every weight, And sin which clings so closely, And let us run with endurance, The race that is set before us, Looking to Jesus, the founder And perfecter of our faith, Who for the joy that was set Him endured the cross, Despising the shame, and is seated At the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12, 1.2. We might well say, “if God be for us, who can be against us?” Who indeed. So take comfort from this truth. GPD 7/26/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 7/25/2016 St. James gives us some words of advice about temptation. “Blessed is the man who remains Steadfast under trial, for when He has stood the test he will Receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is being tempted, “I am being tempted by God, for God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it is conceived gives Birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown Brings forth death.”James 1,12-15. We, in our frailty, must acknowledge the truth of it.

Shade tree wisdom 7/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 7/24/2016 Run a test first before you accept what is offered as truth. “Beloved, do not believe Every spirit, but test thee Spirits whether they be From God, for many false Prophets have gone out Into the world.” 1 John 4,1 This so true in our day when we hear so many voices offering what they claim to be from God. So John offers a test before accepting every Word that is offered as Gospel. GPD 7/24/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 7/22/2016 This is the only way for a Christian to behave to his fellow. “bearing with one another, And, if one has a complaint Against another, forgiving Each other, as the Lord has forgiven you, So also you must forgive.” Colossians 3,14 When anyone does not forgive, it rankles and festers and causes difficulties. It sours that life, as you might know by experience, No, best to forgive, and never give the devil an opening. GPD 7/22/16 \

Shade tree wisdom 7/21/16

GPD 7/21/16 Ever wonder what happens to the sins it is nature to do? Here’s the answer for all of us. “By canceling the record of debt That stood against us, With its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing it to the cross.” Colossians 2,14 That’s what happened. Jesus paid the entire price for the sins of the world, to cancel our debt. And for this we surely must be grateful. GPD 7/21/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/19/16

GPD 7/19/16 Here Solomon gives some advice that is too often disregarded by some young people. “Hear, o sons, a father’s Instruction, and be attentive, That you may gain insight. For I give you good precepts; Do not forsake my teaching. Proverbs 4, 1.2. A parent who takes their role with attentive care will share his experiences and try to help the son or daughter avoid mistakes they may have made. That’s what he really it talking about here, such advice comes from experience. GPD 7/19/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/17/16

GPD 7/17/16 Here is one promise we can always rely on. “the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies ever come to an end; They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness” Lamentations 3, 22.23 “Every morning mercies new, fall as fresh as morning dew.” What a wonderful feeling, to wake up and greet a new day, air is fresh, dew lies on the grass, it’s wonderful, always. GPD 7/17/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/16/16

GPD 7/16/16 Love is really a fruit of our thinking toward our neighbor. “And now faith, hope, and love Abide, these three, But the greatest Of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13,13 Love shows itself by the way we act, or react, toward our fellow man. Are we happy when they have a better job, or a better car, or take vacations we able not able to? How is it? Something to give some thought to, isn’t it? GPD 7/16/17

Shade tree wisdom 7/15/16

GPD 7/15/16 Surely this is a life-long process, is it not? “Now the young man Samuel Continued to grow Both in stature and in favor With the Lord, a Also with man.” 1 Samuel 2, 26, Growing is a natural process, some get bigger and taller, others are a bit shorter. But the emphasis here ought to be on the word “favor”. In other words, he continued to grow into a person people liked and respected, and in then sought out for advice. He was a prophet sought out for his acumen and kindness. Something we too ought to try to emulate. GPD 7/15/16

GPD 7/11/16 Among other things, Psalm 91 promises that God will send His guardian angel to keep me. “He who dwells in the shadow of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, my Refuge and my Fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91, 1.2. For many Christians this Psalm is one of their favorites often quoted. It even evokes the picture Jesus used of the hen keeping her chicks under her protecting wings. It’s calming to know this truth. hade tree wisdom 7/12/16

GPD 7/11/16 Among other things, Psalm 91 promises that God will send His guardian angel to keep me. “He who dwells in the shadow of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, my Refuge and my Fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91, 1.2. For many Christians this Psalm is one of their favorites often quoted. It even evokes the picture Jesus used of the hen keeping her chicks under her protecting wings. It’s calming to know this truth.

Shade tree wisdom 7/9/16

GPD 7/9/16 Toward the end of the Book of Romans Paul gives us a reason why the Scriptures were written. “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15,4. Now there is the best reason why we should diligently and constantly keep on study the Scriptures. The best of all, isn’t it? GPD 7/9/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/7/16

GPD 7/7/16 Here is the apostle Paul explaining what justifies. He said. “A person is not justified By works of the law, but through Faith in Jesus Christ.. . . Because by works of the law No man is justified. Galatians 2,16 We often think because we are honest and dependable citizens we are in good standing with God. Paul is saying ‘not so, no man is justified before God by works’. The one and only way is to believe the death of Jesus Christ really did pay for our sins. GPD 7/7/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/5/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/5/16 Haman, the king’s counselor, persuaded him to issue a degree that On a certain day all the Jews living in his kingdom might be killed. Mordicai, a Jew whose niece was Esther, the queen, tried to persuade her to go the king with a petition, but she hesitated. Then he said, “And who knows whether You have not come to The kingdom for such A time as this!” Esther 4,15. There always seems to be a right time for certain tasks, and the question is always there when we face some tasks we might dread, who knows whether you have been give this to do for such a time as this. It is puzzling, isn’t it? GPD 7/5/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/4/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/4/16 On this July fourth when our nation celebrates independence day, listen to a hymn by Charles T, Brooks (D 1883). “God bless our native land; Firm may she ever stand, Through storm and night. When the wild tempests rave, Ruler of wind and wave, Do Thou our country save, By Thy great might. So shall our prayers arise, To God above the skies; On Him we wait. Thou Who art ever nigh, Guarding with watchful eye, To Thee aloud we cry, God save the state! LSB 965,1.2. So, God bless America. GPD 7/4/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/2/16

Shade tree wisdom 7/2/16 Paul’s prayer in Philippians one reads. “I am sure of this, That He Who began a good Work in you will bring it to Completion at the day Of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1,6. This ought to be a daily prayer of every faithful pastor for his parishioners. Done regularly and with meaning. GPD 7/22/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/30/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/30/16 Our God is eternally alert and constantly overlooks our life with His vigilant love, as Psalm 121 attests. “I will lift up my eyes Unto the hills, from where Does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot Be moved, He who keeps you Will not slumber, He who keeps Israel will neither Slumber nor sleep.” Psalm 121,1.2. Be thankful that we do have a God who is eternally vigilant, seeing always to our safety and comfort as His children. GPD 6/30/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/29/16 When Paul was called, this was the message. “Go, for je is a chosen instrument Of mine to carry my name Before the Gentiles and kings And the children of Israel. For I will show him how Much he will suffer for The sake of My name.” Acts 9, 15.16 And this is what Paul did, he made three separate journeys throughout his world, some traditions also bring him to Spain for a time. The book off Acts ends with Paul a prisoner in Rome, some traditions say he was martyred under Nero. GPD 6/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/29/16 When the apostles were arrested for their preaching they said. “But Peter and the other Apostles answered, ‘we must obey God, Rather than men.” Acts 5,29 That’s still the only right answer to some of the wrong things people, even government, asks of us. But the choice is always ours to make. I pray you will follow the example set for us by Peter and the other Apostles. GPD 6/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/27/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/27/16 Paul and Barnabas explain their preaching, saying: “For the Lord has commanded us saying: I made you a light For the Gentiles, That you may bring Salvation to the ends Of the earth”. Acts 13, 37. That will explain Paul’s missionary journey all over the Mediterranean world. And everywhere he went, he spoke with energy and fervor the story of salvation in Jesus Christ. GPD6/27/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/26/2016 Sometimes a hymn says it all, or at least is helpful in expressing deep Feelings. Such is LSB 884,. Lord, support us all day long, Guide and strengthen. Evening comes, the world is hushed Shadows lengthen. Work I done, life’s fevered pace Now has ended; Christ, to You our final rest, Is commended.” LSB 84,1 Well might every believer say¨”Christ, to Thee our final rest is commended. GPD 6/26/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/23/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/23/2016 For him, the search was over. “Again, the kingdom of heaven Is like a merchant in Search of fine pearls, who On finding one of Great value, went and sold All that he had And bought it. Matthew 13,45. He knew the value and it met his desire, so for him the search was over. It ought always be that way for us, when we find faith in our Savior from sin, our blessed Lord Jesus. Here is a truth for all time, for all. GPD 6/23/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/22/2016 Here’s some good advice we better listen to. “Do not boast about Tomorrow, for you do not Know what the day May bring. Let another praise you, and Not your own mouth; a Stranger, and not your own lips.” Proverbs 27, 1.2. Isn’t that true? When we brag about ourselves people are often offended. It’s much better to have others speak about what we have done. And if no one does, what does it matter? GPD 6/22/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/21/2016 Here is a promise we can trust. “Cast your burden on the Lord And He will sustain you; He will never permit the Righteous to be moved.” Psalm 55,22 The promise is sure, it comes from God Himself. Troubles may and do come, but God tells us He will work things for our good. GPD 6/21/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/20/2016 The whole duty of man. “Fear God, and keep His Commandments, for this Is the whole duty Of man, for God will Bring every deed into Judgment, with every Secret thing, whether Good or evil” Ecclestitates 12, 10 This ends this book. It sets forth what the duty of mankind is, and that has never changed. Nor has man’s failure in doing it changed. So we continue to thank God for His forgiving mercy. GPD 6/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/19/16 (Father's Day)

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/19/2016 For Father’s day, these wise words just for you, son. “Hear, O sons, a father’s Instruction, and be attentive, That you may gain insight, For I give you good precepts, Do not forsake my teaching.” Proverbs 4, l.2. When a son pays little or no attention to his father’s teaching, he really does do himself harm. Because that father has experience to share, and a life that has taught him some of the follies people step into. So listen and check out your father’s counsel before discarding it. And say a prayer of thanks for such a wise father who cares enough and loves you enough to take the time to teach. GPD 6/19/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/18/2016 The truth expressed in this hymn struck me as so needed by all of us in our daily walk. “Grant us Thy peace throughout our earthy life, Our balm in sorrow and our stay in strife; Then, when Thy voice shall bid our conflict cease, Call us, O Lord, to Thine eternal peace.” LSB 917,4 And when that time of His calling us comes, may it be to eternal peace. GPD 6/18/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/17/2016 No matter how it looks, we are never alone The Psalm speaks. “The Lord of hosts Is with us, the God Of Jacob is our Refuge.” Psalm 40,7. The circumstances may be dire, the outlook grim, yet this truth stands as a reminder if God’s eternal being there with us in any circumstance or need we may have. So take heart in this promise. GPD 6/17/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/15/2016 Everyone is eligible. “And as He passed by He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax Booth, and He said to him, ‘follow me’. And he rose And followed Him.” Mark 2,14. A tax collector was despised by the Jews because most of them cheated by collecting too much tax for the hated Roman occupiers. Yet Jesus calls such a person to follow Him! Indeed, everyone is eligible to go and tell the wonderful message of salvation, even you and I. GPD 6/15/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/13/2016 This is the only confession for any Christian to make, ever. And He asked them “but who do you say I am?” Peter answered Him, “You are the Christ.” Christ, our blessed Lord and Savior from sin. We are now and remain ever thankful that this is our Savior whose promise ti us iss eternal life. GPD 6/13/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/12/2016 Some acts will be remembered, though done not to be remembered and praised as a good deed, but simply done out of love. “Truly, I say to you, Wherever this Gospel Is proclaimed in the Whole world, what she Has done will also be Told in memory of her.” Matthew 26,13 Unintended consequences follow such acts. So the final effect is spreading the news further. GPD 6/12/1

Shade tree wisdom 6/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/11/2016 This is not just a warning but also off great comfort. “Watch, therefore, for you Know neither the Day nor the hour.” Matthew 25,13 Jesus does not say this in the story of the ten virgins to frighten them and us, but as a kind reminder that Jesus is always near, and the end will come soon just as He said. GPD 6/11/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/8/2016 Here is a hymn verse that speaks to us. “Oh, to grace how great a debtor Daily I’m constrained to be; Let that grace now like a fetter Bind my wandering heart to Thee; Prone to wander, Lord, I feel I; Prone to leave the God I love. Here’s my heart, O take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above.” LSB 686,3 The lines, ‘prone to wander, prone to leave the God I love’, simply speak volumes to our lives so often drawn away to some earthy delight. GPD 6

Shade tree wisdom 6/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/6/2016 This is the secret of greatness. ‘Truly I say to you, Unless you become Like children, you will Never enter the Kingdom of heaven,” Matthew 18,3. Jesus is of course referring to faith in his words of promise. Without faith in what He said, there is no heaven. GPD 6/6/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/5/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/5/2016 Here Matthew gives us a truth to remember. “Therefore, do not be anxious About tomorrow, for Tomorrow will be anxious For itself. Sufficient for the Day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6,34. We might say, ‘take one day at a time’. Each day gives us its own problems to deal with, so the truth stands, we have enough on our plate each day not to add troubles to it. Get with it. GPD 6/4/16y

Shade tree wisdom 6/4/16

Hello, So now I can stop wondering about those dams. I know lake Conroe is full, and letting out overflow. But I got to thinking about the time Bagnell dam was being planned, I believe by the Mo. power & light Co. The area was growing, so they were in desperate need of power, a fresh source. The first step was to get the state’s permission by showing a real need. Many homesteads would be covered. And that took time. I believe the Waltons had an episode about someone losing their home for this reason When the dam was actually being built many folks bought lots for vacation cottages. But I can imagine someone losing their homestead and having nowhere to go. Oh. They were well paid, but just the same, tough. Now the Lake of the Ozarks is a popular vacation spot for the Midwest So I can stop wondering. Love,

Shade tree wisdom 6/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/4/2016 This word from our Lord ,may explain why the world so often seem so indifferent to any Christian endeavor, does it not? “If you were of the world, The world would love you as its own, But because you are not Of the world, but I chose You out of the world, Therefore the world hates you. John 16,19 Maybe that may explain just why so often the world around us seems to have a ‘so what’ attitude about our work or effort. Well, don’t let such an attitude keep us from doing what lies there for us to do as a neighbor, always ‘putting the best construction on effort put out.’ GPD 6/4/16

Shade tree wisdom 6/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 6/1/2016 Many mission sermons have been preached with this text from Isaiah as the basis. “And I heard the voice Of the Lord saying, Whom shall send, And who will go or us? Then I said, here Am I , send me.” Isaiah6,8. These words of the ancient prophet Isaiah still carry the same weight they did when he first said them. The mission task is never ending and lies before us to do as opportunity offers. GPD 6/1/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/31/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/31/2016 Can anyone? Jesus asks His disciples. “Which of you by being anxious Can add a single hour To is span of life. Then He ays, “seek His kingdom, And these things will Be added to you.” Luke 12,25.31 Most people now and then wonder about their death, when, how, suddenly, by accident, or what? Jesus tells us that ought not be one our worries, since the hour is already set by our heavenly father, So wipe this worry off your list, and do it now. GPD 5/31/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/30/2016 On this memorial day we can do no better than to sing. “God bless or native land, Firm may she ever stand, Through storm and night. When thee wild tempests rave Ruler of wind and wave Do Thou our country save, By Thy great might. So shall our prayers arise, To God above the skies, On Him we wait. Thou who are ever nigh, Guarding with watchful eye to Thee aloud we cry, God save the state. LSB 965,1.2. And we ad phrase From the Gettysburg address “and for his widow, And for his orphan” GPD 5/20/16

Shade Tree wisdom 5/29/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/29/2016 Jesus told His disciples always to be ready for duty. “Stay dressed for action, Always keep your lamps burning.: Luke 12,35 This advice fits us, and every Christian, well. He simply tells us to be ready to do what needs doing, and when it needs it. GPD 5/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/28/2016 Jesus paid for the sins we commit, Isaiah teaches that already in the old Testament. “But He was wounded For our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities Upon Him was the chastisement That brought us peace, And with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53,6. It is well to be reminded what our forgiveness cost, His stripes, and then His cross and death. The cost of forgiveness runs high, cherish it always. GPD 5/28/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/27/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/27/2016 Here is a favorite hymn with so many. Jesus lead Thou on Till our rest is won; And although the way be cheerless, We will follow, calm and fearless, Guide us by Thy hand, To our fatherland. If the way be drear, If the foe be near, Let not faithless fears o’er take us Let not faith and hope forsake us, For through many a woe, To our home we go. LSB 718,1.2. GPD 5/27/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/26/2016 This bit enduring advice comes from the old Testament prophet Micah. “He has told you. O man, What is good, and what Does the Lord require of you But to do justice And to love kindness And to walk humbly With your God.” Micah 66,8. These words give us a perfect example of what pleases our heavenly Father does it not? And it is briefly stated so it is easy to remember. GPD 5,26,16

Shade tree wisdom 5/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/25/2016 This is one of the many old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. “But you, Bethlehem Ephratah, Who are too little to Be among the clans of Of Judah, from you Shall come forth for Me One who is to be Ruler In Israel, whose coming Forth is from of old, From ancient days. Micah 5,2 This one of the many prophecies about the coming Messiah. It seems hidden away, yet it stands there, declaring old truths. GPD 5/25/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/24/2016 This scene comes from the book of Acts and is about a treasurer’s trip to worship in Jerusalem. Philip was sent by God to tell him about Jesus. “Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.” Acts 8, 15.16 Here is an example how mission work gets done. Nearly anything can be a starting point which may lead to a witness and, under God, a conviction. And one soul is saved to eternal life. GPD 5/24/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/23/16

Shade Tree wisdom 5/23/16 This is often used by so many Christians as a bed time prayer, and it is really fitting so to do. “Now the light had gone away, Father, listen while I pray, Asking Thee to watch and keep, And to send me quiet sleep Jesus, Savior wash away All that has been wrong today; Help me very day to bee Good and gentle, more like Thee.” LSB 87,1.2. LSB also provides the verses in German. If you can read it, one line stands out. “Deine Gnad und Christi blut, macht ya allen Schaden gut.” That really touches on the blood Christ shed on the cross for our sins, does it not? GPD 5/23/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/22/2016 This is the Christian walk, never an easy path, but the hard, demanding walk that Jesus calls for. “So whatever you wish That others would do To you, do also them. For this is the law And the prophets.” Matthew 7,12 Jesus is not teaching a ‘tit for tat’ behavior for us, but rather that we help others when we see a need. Especially when that need is something we can fill, without expecting as return for the help we might offer. GPD 5/22/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/21/2016 Here is what Christians do with the greatest pleasure. “Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting.” Psalm 147,1 Often we sing all kinds of ditties, but forget the hymns we have learned. God declares it is fitting to do it. I remember fondly my mother either singing or humming while she went about her daily tasks. And it was pleasant to hear it. GPD 5/21/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/20/2016 This is often used as a prayer in pubic gatherings. “O give thanks unto The Lord, for He Is good, and His steadfast Love endures forever.” Psalm 106,1 It is a gentle reminder to those gathered for a meal that His love is constant and just never fails. Nor does it depend on how worthy we may be. GPD 5/20/26

Shade tree wisdom 5/19/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/19/2016 Keep this thought in mind as you bring your petitions. “Thou art coming to a king, Large petitions with thee bring: For His grace and power are such, None can ever ask too much.” LSB 779,2. We often forget in our prayers who it is we are praying to. It is not a wooden idol, it is the Almighty God who loves us and wants us to have. GPD 5/19/16

shade tree wisdom 5/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/18/2016 Keep this in mind when you think of Jesus. “For God did not send His Son to condemn the world, But that the world may Be saved by Him.” Jun 3,17 This simply adds a bit to what Christians call ‘the Gospel in a nutshell’, for want of a better term. It fills out the picture of salvation won by Jesus Christ on the cross. GPD 5/18/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/17/2016 Jesus does not leave us without divine help, for He makes this promise. “If I do not go away, The Helper will not come To you. But if I go away, I will send Him to you.” John 16, 7.8. This is the promise Jesus made to His disciples. We are not left alone, or helpless, for the Holy Spirit dwells in us placed there in Holy Baptism. So the gracious Father takes care of us. GPD 5/17/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/16/2016 This is always the best weapon for defending your salvation, “and take the helmet of Salvation, and the sword Of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Ephesians 6,17. If we use the Word to defend our faith, we cannot lose, ever. Thanks for the merciful God to arm us in the best way for a successful Christian life. GPD 5/16/116

Shade tree wisdom 5/15/16 (Pentecost sunday)

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/15/2016 From the ancient prophet come these fitting words of advice, so appropriate for our day, aren’t they? “He has told you, o man , What is good, and what Does the Lord require you, but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6, 8 That pretty well covers a life that is pleasing to God, and at the same time it is a good life to lead, pleasant and quiet. GPD 5/15/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/14/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/14/2016 This is where it starts. “Keep your heart With all vigilance, For out of it Flow the springs of life.” Proverbs 4,23. Jesus warns us that out of the heart come man evil thoughts and actions. So this Proverb warns us to be very careful. Being very careful often helps us to keep from wrong deeds. Saying or doing things we later regret. GPD 5/14/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/13/2016 After Babylonian Nebuchadnezzar’s humiliation, he declared in praise of the Almighty God: “None can stay His hand Or say to Him What have you done.” Because God’s way is ever prefect, no one can question the way He does things. GPD 5/13/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/12/2016 It helps to know ahead if time which way to act So here Daniel has made up his mind beforehand. “But Daniel resolved That he would not Defile himself with The king’s food, or The wine that he drank.” Daniel 1, 8. Evidently the foreign king ate and drank what the Israelite law forbad, and Daniel was well aware of this. So Daniel foresaw a difficulty here, and determined to avoid it. It’s always best if we see such a situation and try to avoid it; save us from being embarrassed. GPD 5/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/111/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/11/2016 Life would be unbearable if we could not count on others doing what they promised or their job expects it of them. So cherish this promise. “For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures Forever, and His faithfulness To all generations.” Psalm 100. 5. What a comforting word this Psalm gives us. We can, and do, count on God always keeping His promise to us as He declares in this verse. GPD5/11/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/10/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/10/2016 This is what the Book of Acts reports about the ascension. “Men of Galilee, Why do you stand looking Into heaven? This Jesus, Who was taken up from you Into heaven, will come In the same way you saw Him go into heaven. Acts l,11 So Jesus went to heaven, but He will come again, and this time not to save, but to judge. GPD 5/10/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/9/2016 Keep this thought in mind today. “Holy Spirit, pow’r divine, Cleanse this guilty heart of mine; In Thy mercy pity me, From sin’s bondage set me free, LSB 496,3. GPD 5/9/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/8/2016 An excellent word for Mother’s day from the book of Proverbs. “Her children rise up And call her blessed; Her husband also, and He praises her.” Proverbs 31,28 If that is the kind of mother you were blessed with; the kind that takes you for worship and sits down and explains the salvation story, and the meaning of the cross and that Jesus Christ is our Savior because He paid the price for the sins we do, then you Are truly blessed. So this mother’s day be thankful to a loving God who gave you such a mother. GPD 5/8/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/7/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/7/2016 Our work is there for us to do. Jesus said. “Look I tell you, Lift up your eyes, And see that the fields Are white for harvest.” John 14,25 That’s the best way for a farmer to tell if his fields are ripe and ready for harvesting to store in his granary for later use. If he does not harvest the grain when its ripe, it breaks down and rots in the field, useless except to fertilize his field a bit. GPD 5/7/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/5/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/5/2016 This is often the apostle’s greeting when he wrote to the various congregations. “Grace to you, and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 1,2. This is the way the Apostle often began his letters. He simply is reminding them that God in love brings mercy and peace to their daily life. Just as He does for us, and we do so often take it as our due. GPD 5/5/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/3/2016 After leading Israel r 40 years, Joshua said, in his farewell speech. “I am about to go the way Of all the earth And you know in your hearts and souls, All of you, that not one word Has failed of all the good Things that the Lord Your God promised Concerning you. All have come to pass For you, not one of Them has failed. Joshua 23,14 That’s quite a promise, but every word of it is true, for God’s word never failed, and that’s something we can truly depend on. GPD 5/3/16 Joshua 23,14.

Shade tree wisdom 5/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/2/2016 This is the blessing which ends most worship services. “The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face Shine on you and be gracious unto you. The Lord look upon you with favor, Ad give you peace.” LSB page 166. When you consider it, the worshipper is sent out into the world with the peace of God ringing in his ears, a peace that goes with his every Step each day. How comforting thst is. 5/2/16

Shade Tree wisdom 5/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 5/1/2016 Just before the Lord gave Moses the ten commandments, He said. “And you shall set limits For the people All around.” Exodus l9,12 And that’s what the ten commandments are for, to set limits to our behavior. As sinful human beings we do have this tendency to test and try, maybe what is best left undone. Often we are the little kid who tries the ice in the beginning of skating season to see if it is safe yet. So with loving kindness our Lord gave us limits GPD 55/1/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/30/2016 Strong in weakness because God is here. “But he said to me (Paul), my grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness”. 2 Corinthians 12,6 That’s promise is so comforting, isn’t it? For so many times we feel inadequate for a task, yet the strength and ability to do it is always there. We trust that promidse. GPD 4/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/27/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/27/2016 By difficulties and through hardship comes the hand of God in discipline. And rather than resent it, we welcome it because it is really a loving Father helping us. “My son, do not regard Lightly the discipline of The Lord, nor be weary when reproved by Him; for the Lord disciplines the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and chastises every son whom He receives.” Hebrews 13,5.6. “Don’t you care? It ought to shame us all when one family member does something wrong. Everyone in a family suffers with one That’s true for an entire congregation, all are affected when one I caught, aren’t they. Maybe you have had such an experience, and is not pleasant. So don’t you care is a loaded question. GPD 4/27/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/26/2016 This is the basis for true blessing. “But He said, blessed are those Who hear the word Of God and keep it.” Luke 11,28. It is not enough simply to hear the Word, the Gospel message, and we must also keep it, which means believing it, and trustinbgg what t says for our salvation. GPD 4/26/16

shade tree wisdom 4/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/25/2016 “I came to Jesus, as I was, so weary, worn and sad; I found in Him a resting place, and You have made me glad.” And when such is our feeling, then this word off our Lord refreshes us. “I have said these things to You, that in Me you may Have peace. In the world you will Have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world.” John 16,33. It’s a blessing of great comfort that Jesus indeed has overcome, so for us there is nothing to fear, for even Satan is in God’s power. GPD 4/25/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/24/2016 Here’s some much needed advice for all who too much are in too big a hurry. “Wait for the Lord; Be strong, and let Your heart take courage, Wait for the Lord.” Psalm 27,14 When we don’t take the time first to think and plan, we rush into problems and we would not have had it we just had taken the time to plan things first. Right? GOD 4/24/16

Shade tree Wisdom 4/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/23/2016 The Christian says. “The Lord is my light And my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the Stronghold of my life, Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27, 11.2. This addresses spiritual life, there, where Satan is always like a fiery lion, there is no need to fear. And that’s where comfort lies for the Christian, because God is his stronghold. GPD 4/22/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/23/2016 The Christian says. “The Lord is my light And my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the Stronghold of my life, Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27, 11.2. This addresses spiritual life, there, where Satan is always like a fiery lion, there is no need to fear. And that’s where comfort lies for the Christian, because God is his stronghold. GPD 4/22/16

Shade tree Wisdm 4/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/22/2016 A prayer before we speak any hasty word. “Let the word of My mouth, and the meditation Of my heart be Acceptable in your sight. O Lord, my Rock And my Redeemer.” Psalm 19,l4. This ought to be our thinking before any kind of hasty speech, especially in anger. GPD 4/22/16

4/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/21/2016 This speaks to us . “Today your mercy calls us Tto wash away our sin. However great our trespass What ever we have been, However long from mercy Our hearts have turned away, Your precious blood can wash us and make us clean today.” LSB 915,l GPD 4/20/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/19/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/19/2016 Here our Lord identifies Himself as light of the world. “I am the light Of the word, whoever Follows Me will not Walk in darkness, but will have The light of life.” John 8,12. Oh, how we need light, especially in spiritual matters, because Satan is always active to blind us, to throw dust of untruth to darken our spiritual understanding, That is exactly why we need to give attention to Jesus, the Light of the world who speaks to us the Word of life. GPD 4/19/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/18/2016 We too often forget to do this simple command. “Come to Me all ye that Labor, and are heavy laden And I will And I will give Give you rest.” Matthew 11,28. This is such a simple request, yet, sadly, we often overlook it when when the burdens if life seem to overwhelm us. I ask you, why not get in the habit of bringing any problems that seem to overwhelm, us to Him first. He does indeed give us rest and release from things that are too much for us at the moment. GPD 4/18/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/17/2016 LSB 763,3 “He lives, oh the bliss of thus glorious thought, My sin, not in part, but in whole, Is nailed to His cross, And I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Oh my soul.” It is well, it is well, with my soul. The words of that hymn remind is sharply why Jesus died, does it not. All is well with my soul. Thank God and praise His Holy name. GPD 4/17/16

Shade tree wisdom 14/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/16/2016 Here’s a thought for some real thinking. What does the Apostle means when he wrote these words? “But I want you To be wise as to what Is good, and innocent As to what is evil.” Romans 16, 19. One does wonder just what the Apostle had in mind when he ended this letter in which he taught the faith with such a passage. Anything come to mind? Anyone? GPD 4/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/15/2016 The day of reckoning. “For he is God’s servant For your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain, for he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer.” Romans 13,4. Government has a purpose, that we might live peaceably one with the other. That’s one of the things our tax dollar brings, as well as protection from any outside enemy. The Apostle Paul reminds us of this when he says, “for authorities are ministers of God attending to this very thing.” If we keep this purpose in mind, the tax doesn’t seem too much, does it? GPD 4/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/14/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/14/2016 A necessary thing to do in or living with one another peacefully. “I said, I will guard My ways, that I May not sin with My tongue.” Psalm 39,1 James calls the tongue a ‘restless evil, full of deadly poison”. With it we bless God and curse other people. The apostle is warning us about how we use our tongues. It is a fair warning, because we tend ti get careless with our speech. So take this in thew spirit in which James writes it. GPD 4/14/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/13/2016 After living all these years, I can attest to the truth of this Psalm. “I have been young, And now am old, Yet I have not Seen the righteous Forsaken, nor his children begging bread.” Psalm 37,25 Never too little, nor rarely an abundance. In our family life we always found this to be true. Every day God supplied what was needed that day. Money for college, or for fresh clothing, or new shoes, always there just as it was needed. I pray you find it so in your life as well. GPD 4/13/20

Shade tree wisdom 4/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/12/2016 This is a word to comfort and strengthen us every day. “Forever, O Lord, Your Word is firmly fixed In the heavens.” Psalm 119, 89. We like to deal with people whose word is ‘fixed’. In short, we can trust that person because we know he ells the truth. Past experience has given us this assurance, and so we tend to take that person as not lying to us. Such people are rare so cherish the friends you have who are like that. GPD 4/12/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/110/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/11/2016 These words of Psalm 1 describe the true Christian life. “Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the wicked. Nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord and in his law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1, 1.2. The Word of God appears always in what he does and says. It’s always in mind, and he cares what God says about actions . So his life has a plan and a purpose provided by a loving God. And as long as he stays on track his life be fine, GPD 4/10/1`6

Shade tree wisdom 4/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/9/2016 This time of year, when the ground wakes up from its winter sleep, I am reminded of the well known passage in Eccleastes, part of it is. “For everything there Is a season, and A time for every Matter under the sun. . . A time to plant, and A time to pluck Up what is planted. Eccleeastes 3,1.2. The warmer weather invites us to spend more time outdoors, tending to the winter damage to plants, plucking old growth out, and planting fresh plants. It’s sort of a fun time, enjoying fresh air and sunshine and getting rid if the winter doldrums. Next time I’ll speak about God’s underground farmer, the earthworm, and raising them. GPD 4/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/8/2016 Please, please, pay attention to His call. “Today if you hear His voice, do not harden Harden your hearts, As in the rebellion” Hebrews 3, 15 Hearing the Gospel voice does not mean believing the message. This is what this passage in Hebrews is warning against. For true it is that many hear the message of salvation and do not take it to heart. This is terribly sad and utterly damning eternally. GPD 4/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/77/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/7/2016 The letter to the Hebrews begins in this way. ‘long ago, at many Times and in many Ways, God spoke to our Fathers by the prophets, But in these last days He has spoken to us By His Son Whom He appointed heir of all things Through Whom also He Created the world.” Hebrews l,1.2. So we have God, in Christ, creating the world. That answers the question of how it all began. No question or quibble about the world’s creation at all. GPD 4/7/16

Shade tree wisdom 5/6/116

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/6/2016 ` Remember singing at harvest time? “Even so, Lord, quickly come To Thy final harvest home. Gather Thou Thy people in, Free from sorrow free from sin. There forever purified In Thy garner to abide. Come with all Thine angels come, Raise the song of harvest home.” LSB 892,1 This is a favorite hymn for a congregation to sing during a thanksgiving service. Join in, won’t you? GPD 5/6/16

ShadeTree Wisdom 4/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/4/2016 We do need such a reminder. “Just as I am, without one plea, But that Thy blood was shed for me, And that Thou biddst me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, I come.” LSB 570,1 In our busy life, we often need to be reminded, again and again, that Christ died for our every sin. GPD 4/4/16

shade tree wisdom 4/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/3/2016 Our gracious God supplies the armor that we need for our living. “Put on the whole Armor of God, That you may be Able to stand, Against the schemes of the devil” Ephesians 6,11 He is no joke, this devil. And his plots and schemes are many and devious sneaky, Jesus called him a liar from the beginning, and he is. GPD 4/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/2/16

Shade tree wisdom 4/2/16 This must always be the believer’s way, as Paul teaches us. “Be kin to one another, Tenderhearted, Forgiving one another, As God, in Christ, Forgave you.” Ephesians 4,32 And here Paul gives the reason why we should be forgiving “As God, in Christ, forgave you.” And just when was the last time you said of someone, he or she is tenderhearted? It’s a word one seldom hears today, that he or she is tenderhearted. Think of what it really says. GPD 4/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/1/2016 It’s all been done, the work of our salvation, for, “For by grace you have Been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2,8 Wonderful news, that, for it tells us that the work of our salvation is complete. Nothing needs doing, or be added to make it complete. It finished, He cried just before He bowed His head and gave up the ghost. GPD 4/1/16

shade tree wisdom 4/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/1/2016 It’s all been done, the work of our salvation, for, “For by grace you have Been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2,8 Wonderful news, that, for it tells us that the work of our salvation is complete. Nothing needs doing, or be added to make it complete. It finished, He cried just before He bowed His head and gave up the ghost. GPD 4/1/16

shade tree wisdom 4/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 4/1/2016 It’s all been done, the work of our salvation, for, “For by grace you have Been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2,8 Wonderful news, that, for it tells us that the work of our salvation is complete. Nothing needs doing, or be added to make it complete. It finished, He cried just before He bowed His head and gave up the ghost. GPD 4/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/31/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/31/2016 For those times when nothing seems to go right, when everything we try doesn’t work, when we back out of our driveway in our brand new car and get hit by the garbage whose driver is momentarily distracted, when we suffer financial reverses, when illness strikes, or when death enters our home, for those days we need to be reminded again that : “I know that my Redeemer lives, What comfort this sweet sentence gives, He lives, He lives Who once was dead, He lives, my ever-living Head.” LSB 461,1 This is a truth we are deeply aware of and yet it sometimes deepens our devotion to burst into song with this wonderful truth, doesn’t it? Now let’s just do that, burst into song, I mean. GPD 3/31/16

shade tree wisdom 3/30/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/29/2016 Here is how John begins his Gospel, by reminding us who The Word is. John begins: In the beginning was The Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning With God.” John 1,1.2 John begins by reminding us just who he was talking about Jesus Christ, the Light of the world and our precious Savior. GPD 3/29/16

Shade tree Wisdom 3/29/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/29/2016 Here is how John begins his Gospel, by reminding us who The Word is. John begins: In the beginning was The Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning With God.” John 1,1.2 John begins by reminding us just who he was talking about Jesus Christ, the Light of the world and our precious Savior. GPD 3/29/16

Shade tree wisdom 3/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/28/2016 After the Resurrection, two disciples were on their way to Emaus when Jesus joined them and said to them, “That repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem” Luke 24, 47 There Jesus gives the command for afer His ascension. They are ours as well. GPD 3/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/27/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/26/2016 The word for Holy Saturday is. “O sorrow dread, Our God is dead”. GPD 3/26/16

shade tree wisdom 3/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/26/2016 The word for Holy Saturday is. “O sorrow dread, Our God is dead”. GPD 3/26/16

Shade tree Wisdom 3/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/26/2016 The word for Holy Saturday is. “O sorrow dread, Our God is dead”. GPD 3/26/16

Shade tre wisdom 3/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/25/2016 Today we observe Good Friday; we call it ‘good’ because of Jesus’ death when He spoke His last word. “When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said ’it is finished’ and He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” The word He uses for finished carries the meaning of having something really well better than was expected. That is just what His death accomplished, our eternal life for in death He made the ultimate payment for our many sins. GPD 3/25/16/

Shade tree wisdom 2/24/16

shade Tree Wisdom 3/23/26

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/23/2016 This speaks to us what the will of the Father is, and as Jesus teaches, no one comes to te Father unless the Father draws him to Himself. “For this is the will of My Father, that Everyone who looks on the Son And believes in Him, should Have eternal life, and I will Raise him up at the last day.” John 6,39 This is our promise from the Triune God, and we are so grateful. GPD 3/23/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/22/2016 This is a forever word for us. “Heaven ad earth shall Pass away, but Thy Word will not pass away.” Mark 13,31 Here is a statement we can fully trust for our daily life. And that assures us of salvation, because this is in this Word. GPD 3/22/16

Shade tree wisdom 3/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/21/2016 A bit of wisdom for our daily living. “Whatever your hand finds To do, do it with your Might, for there is no Work, or thought, or knowledge Or wisdom in the grave To which you are going.” Ecclesiastes 9,10 In short, use your best effort in whatever you do or undertake. That brings out your best efforts, and also bring approval by other workers. The result for you is a satisfying sigh as you retire that night. GPS 3/21/16

Shade tree wisdom 3/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/20/2016 Today is Palm Sunday. It is the day Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, and the people covered the path with palm branches. Glad they were to welcome their king. Yet just a few days later they lined the same street jeering Him as He went to the cross to die for their sins. Strange, and it is done by our sinful nature. So today we rejoice that Christ died for our sins. Thank God for the Savior He sent in giving His Son to die for us. 3/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/19/`6

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/19/2016 It is still His work, not our own, and has always been so. Jesus said to His disciples” “That is why I told you, That no one can come to me, Unless itt is granted to Him by the Father.” John 6,55 And that blessed truth stands forever. I thank my God for His mercy in granting me faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. GPD3/19/16

shade tree wisdom 3/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/18/2016 God s always the One Who empowers. Now there are many gifts, But the same Spirit, aand There are varieties of Service, but the same Lord; And there are varieties of activities, But the same Lord Who empowers Them all in everyone.” 1 Corinthians 12,4-7 The inclination and the power always comes from God, never from our sinful selves. And for this we thank God. GPD 3/18/16

shade tree wisdom 3/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/17/2016 It’s not us, for St. Paul reminds us. “For it is God Who work in you both To will and to work For His good pleasure.” Philippians 2,13 God uses his Word to take our sinful nature and turn it to do His will in our life. Thanks be to God for His mercy. GPD 3/17/16

shade tree wisdom 3/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/16/2016 People need each other according to this scripture. “As iron sharpens iron, And one man Sharpens another. “ Proverbs 27,17 We often forget this. Your strength or expertise may hekeo my understanding f a difficult task, or it may help me see something I overlooked. So each helps the other. GPD 3/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/15/2016 “Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; Faith’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away; Change and decay in all around I see; O Thou who changest not, abide with me.” LSB 878,4. GPD 3/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/13/2016 Here is a truth to remember. “The fool says in his Heart, there is no God. They are corrupt, doing Abominable iniquity: There is none that does good.” What a harsh truth that is, calling the unbeliever a fool. But sacred Scripture merely speaks a fact, does it not? GPD 3/13/16

shade tree wisdom 3/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/12/2016 See this word from Isaiah, a wonderfully comforting promise. “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am Your God; I will strengthen You, I will help you, I will Uphold you with My Righteous right hand. Isaiah 41,10 Isaiah has way of getting to the center of a truth which helps us. We already know God is always there, but it help to have the truth spoken again, doesn’t it? GPD 3/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/11/2016 The Gospel message never changes Hear St. Paul. “But even if we or an angel From heaven should preach To you a Gospel contrary To the one we preached To you, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1,8. That was the word of St. Paul in his letter to the Galatians, And it’s still the message today, thanks be to God. GPD 3/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/9/2016 Here is one truth for the Christian life. “Trust in the Lord with All your heart, ajd do not Lean on your own understanding. In akll your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make Straight your paths.” Proverbs 3,5.6. Many learned that proverb in their confirmation classes. And if they followed it, their lives will walk securely, because our loving God cares for them. GPD 3/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/8/2016 They asked Jesus about the importance of commandments, which was the best? And this is what He said: “You shall love the Lord, Your God with al your heart And with all your soul And with all your mind And with all your strength And the second is this; You shall love your neighbor As yourself,” Mark 12,30.31 Easy to say, but so very hard really to carry out, isn’t it? And still our God commands it, as a direct answer to a direct question. So there it stands, for us to do. GPD 3/8/16

shade tree wisdom 3/777/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/7/2016 Let’s be aware of this evil ad avoid it always. “For from within, out Of the heart of man, come Evil thoughts. . . All these things come from within, And they defile the man.” Mark 7,21.22. This scripture makes is sharply aware of the possibilities that lie within our own hearts. Playing thee blame game doesn’t excuse our own behavior. Our God in His loving care is warning us. GPD 3//7/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/6/2016 Here is a truth we must always remember, especially during those especially anxious days in our lives. “The Lord off hosts is With us, the God of Jacob is our Refuge.” Psalm 46,10 When we always keep this truth in mind, that our God knows us ad cares for us, it brings comfort in those oh so anxious that often cause us to lose sleep because we are worried. GPD 3/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/5/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/5/2016 No one knows what hour is his last. But He Who gave us life, does. I praise you, for I am “ Fearfully and wonderfully Made. . .Your eyes saw My unformed substance; In Your book were written Every one of them, The days that were formed For me when as yet there Were none of them.” Psalm 139,14.l6 That’s a really amazing statement, isn’t it? God, Who gave us kife, knows exactly how many days and hours there are. So we can stop worrying about the end, for it has akready been planned. GPD 3/5/26

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/4/2016 The one thing we all need “One thing is necessary. Mary has chosen That good portion Which will not be Taken away from her.” Luke 10,42 This scripture comes from the visit Jesus paid at the home of Martha and her sister, Mary. While Martha was busy preparing the meal and other household chore, Mary was seated at Jesus’ feet, listening quietly to His talk And just that is something we all ought to be doing regularly. Not only on Sunday as we attend the worship service, but daily we ought to read Scripture to feed our soul. GPD 3/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/3/2016 Here is a statement for every church-going Christian. “O Lord, I Love The habitation Of your house, And the place Where Your honor dwells” Psalm 26,8. This is an everlasting truth for us all to remember, and it’s true for every age. Men all too often seek honor and glory for themselves. They feel good when others admire them. Often we fail to give the proper honor to our ever loving God and Savior. Do it from this day forward. GPS 3/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/2/2016 Can this be said f your household too? The Lord our God Well serve, And His voice We will obey.” Joshua 24,24. Sadly, this truth can no longer be said of so many households in American. Sunday is useful for reading the paper, and generally in doing what we want. It too often attending divine worship is not one of them. And the loss is always ours. Maybe we don’t feel it, but deep down we are neglecting a need that is ever our loss Bless you if your household is one that tends to this great need. GPD 3/2/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/1/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 3/1/2016 Are we so trusting that we seek to forgive those who hurt us? “And falling to His knees, he cried With a loud voice, Lord, do not holde This sin against thebn. And whe he had said This, he fell asleep” Acts 7,56. This describes the death of Stephen The first martyr to his faith. Would we be able to do that? Most of us have never, thanks be to God, been so tested. GPD 3/1/16

Shade tree wisdom 2/29/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/29/2016 On this last day of February, a fervent prayer. “Create in me a Cle4an heart, O God, and renew a right spirit Within me.” Psalm 51,10 On this leap year such a prayer seems quite fitting for our living. God 2/29/16

shade tree wisdom 2/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/28/2016 Jesus once told His disciples that the world was “ready or harvest”. “But Jesus said, They need not go Away, ou give Them something To eat.” Matthew 14, 13 It’s what we do. Give them of the bread sent from heaven. It is the faith that saves. Isn’t that the assignment He gave when he said, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel? GPD 2/28/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/27/16

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Shade Tree Wisdom 2/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/26/2016 It’s a fine thing always to keep this truth in mind, It tells u us where real light comes from. “The unfolding of Your Words Gives light; It imparts understanding To the simple.” Psalm 119,130 Simple, in the sense that God’s Word always gives a better understanding of any truth. So again we thank our gracious God for His care and mercy. GPD 2/26/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/25/2016 When we hurt, let’s remember this psalm verse. “I l now, O Lord, That Your rules Are righteous. And that in Faithfulness You Have afflicted me.” Psalm 119,77 Nobody likes pain, especially such pain as seems to come without warning. When we do some things, we expect to maybe get hurt. But pain as such is, well, painful. And yet God has a purpose for such pain and it’s given us in this verse of the psalm. God allows pain to call us back, as a reminder when we start to stray. So let’s be grateful our gracious God loves us enough to call us back to the right pathway. GPD 2/25/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/24/2016 Here is a truth many of us first learned as children. “Your Word is A light to my feet, And a light To my path.” Psalm 119,105 It’s a simple statement and can be understood by anyone. One might think of a flashlight, another of the switch that is on the wall ready to light the room. The thing to remember is that we use the light God offers in His Word to show the way we live. Thank God for His guidance. GPD 2/24/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/22/2016 Here is an abiding truth which brings comfort to an anxious person. “Oh give thanks unto the Lord For He is good; For His steadfast love Endures forever.” Psalm 118,1 Surely, it is a reassuring statement for us wh often seem anxious and troubled in our living. We can rest assured that God’s love is indeed enduring forever. GPD 2/22/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/21/2016 When Scripture speaks of ‘the fear ‘ of the Lord, it has in mind words like honored, or respected. So keep that in mind ass you read the verse selected for today. “The fear of the lord Is the beginning of wisdom; All those who practice it Have good understanding. His praise Endures forever. Psalm 111,10 Giving some thought to this comment will surely benefit us in our life’s planning. It will help us stay on the right path. GPD 2/21/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/20/2016 It came to our Lord too, being tempted by the devil. ‘ “Then Jesus was led By the Spirit Into the wilderness To be tempted By the devil” Matthew 4,1 It happened to our Lord. Just think off the brass, the demanding by Satan, to the very God Himself. And it also happens to us, continually. But Jesus also gave us the pattern for victory. He quoted Scripture, He said simply, “It is written” So it still is, and it the best and only tool we need to overcome temptation. Just use it always and so claim victory. GPD 2/20/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/19/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/19/2016 In His High Priestly payer Jesus prayed, I do not ask for These only, but also For those who will Believe in Me Through their word.” John 17,20. If you think of that, that surely means us who believe in Jesus though the preaching of the Gospel. And so the message grows and with the message the body of believers. And we thank God f0r His mercy. GPD 2/19/16

shade tree wisdom 2/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/18/2016 Our Lord Jesus said, “Let not your hearts Be troubled, You believe in God, Believe also in Me. In my Father’s house Are many rooms If it were not so would I have Told you I go To prepare a place for you?” John 14, 1.2. Just in that truth lies the reason for having an untroubled heart. Why be troubled? We know there is a place prepared for us by Jesus, Who has gone before us. In these Lenten days give some thought to what was won for us on the cross, our room in heaven by a loving Father. GPD 2/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/17/2016 Jesus said to His disciples, and to us who are His disciples: “The Hour is coming When whoever kills you Will think he is Offering service To God” John 16,2 And what our Lord said then, is coming true even today. Christians are being martyred in many areas if the world, and those people who do it really think they are being true to God. Thank God we are able to serve God in this hour. GPD 2/17/16

Shade tree wisdom 2/16/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/16/2016 Another thought during these Lenten days. “O Christ You walked the road Our wandering feet must go. You face with us temptation’s power, And fought our ancient foe.” LSB 424,1 GPD 2/16/16

shade tree wisdom 22/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/15/2016 Another thought that comes with these days. “Come in sorrow and contrition, Wounded, impotent, and blind; Here the guilty free remission, Here the troubled peace may find. Health this fountain will restore; they that drink shall thirst no more.” LSB 435,3 Sing or hum if you must, but think of it. GPD 2/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/13/2016 This is what ought to be in our attention span during these Lenten days. ”A Lamb goes uncomplaining forth, The guilt of sinners bearing And laden with the sins of earth, ,None else the burden sharing; Goes patiently, Grows weak and faint, To slaughter led without complaint That spotless life to offer. He bears the stripesm and wounds, the lies, The mockery, and yet replies, All this I gladly suffer.” LSB 438,1. GPD 2/13/16

Shade tree wisdom 2/10/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/12/2016 1 Corinthians chapter 13 is often called the love chapter From it we get such phrases as ‘a noisy gong or a clanging symbol’. “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; Is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on having its own way; It is not irritable or resentful: 1 Corinthians 13,4.5 Often we are that. Arrogant, rude, and resentful if we don’t get out own way. Like a child on the playground who likes to make their own rules, and gets upset when others call such behavior unfair. I remember being in my study at church and hearing the school children play during recess and how often I heard the cry, “That’s not fair”. GPD 2/12/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/11/2016 The Lord always provides. And Abraham said, “God will provide for Himself the Lamb for a Burnt offering, My son.” So they Went both of them Together. It has ever been so throughout history, when we have need, God provides; it never fails. So these Lenten hours give us a special time to remember that ‘A Lamb goes uncomplaining forth, the guilt of sinners bearing.’ And we ought to be everlasting grateful that God did provide Savior, the Lamb of God, for our sins. So please make use of some of these hours to look deeply into the need He supplied. Without murmuring or complaining. GPD 2/11/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/10/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/10/2016 Today is Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of Lent this year. Lent i the time to Church emphasizes repentance, and it culminates withy the Risen Christ on Easter, the Christ who paid for all the sins I am repenting of. “Grant that I Your passion view With repentant grieving, Let me not bring shame to You, By unholy living. How could refuse to shun every sinful pleasure, LSB 440,4 GPD 2/10/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/9/2016 With this verse we finish our trip through that beloved psalm, the 23rd. “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23,5 No matter where, even when surrounded by those who are not my friends, God supplies in full measure all that I need for life. Hence I cannot but praise His Holy Name. GPD 2/9/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2//8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/8/2016 Yesterday most of the nation was watching super bowl 50. Denver won, the underdog. I’m glad they did. Meanwhile the Church was quietly observing another event, the Transfiguration of our Lord. Out of that event came this word. “While He was yet Speaking behold A great cloud overshadowed them and a voice From the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, hear Him.” Matthew 17,5. That even endures for all time, because it showed our Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior from sin. And the command is apt. “Hear Him”. He speaks the Word of eternal life. What better word can we have than that we are saved from our sin and given life eternal. Wean listen to no better advice than just that, “Hear Him”. Is this part of your daily life too, that you always draw near to “Hear Him” May God bless the hearing. GPD 2/8/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/7/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/4/2016 The Lord is my shepherd, no want shall I know. We should recognize it as the Psalm of David set in meter. “The Lord is My Shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalm 23,1 David is secure, because he sees the Lord as the Shepherd who sees to his every need. We should have this same feeling, because the Lord as our good Shepherd sees to our every need, and offers us the protection we need in this world we live in. Thank God for his ever-present mercy and grace to us. GPD 2/4/16

Shade cTree Wisdom 2/6/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/4/2016 The Lord is my shepherd, no want shall I know. We should recognize it as the Psalm of David set in meter. “The Lord is My Shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalm 23,1 David is secure, because he sees the Lord as the Shepherd who sees to his every need. We should have this same feeling, because the Lord as our good Shepherd sees to our every need, and offers us the protection we need in this world we live in. Thank God for his ever-present mercy and grace to us. GPD 2/4/16

ShademTree Wisdom 2/5/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/4/2016 The Lord is my shepherd, no want shall I know. We should recognize it as the Psalm of David set in meter. “The Lord is My Shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalm 23,1 David is secure, because he sees the Lord as the Shepherd who sees to his every need. We should have this same feeling, because the Lord as our good Shepherd sees to our every need, and offers us the protection we need in this world we live in. Thank God for his ever-present mercy and grace to us. GPD 2/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/4/2016 The Lord is my shepherd, no want shall I know. We should recognize it as the Psalm of David set in meter. “The Lord is My Shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalm 23,1 David is secure, because he sees the Lord as the Shepherd who sees to his every need. We should have this same feeling, because the Lord as our good Shepherd sees to our every need, and offers us the protection we need in this world we live in. Thank God for his ever-present mercy and grace to us. GPD 2/4/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 2/3/2016 This is a word that Only the believer in Christ as Savior can make with the Psalmist. “Surely goodness and mercy Shall follow me all The day of my Life, and I shall dwell In the House of the Lord Forever.” Psalm 25,5. It is because Jesus Chris t died for our sins that we can lay claim to His mercy, for by His death, Christ has paid the price for us. Thanks be to God for His love and mercy to us poor sinners, now forgiven and shriven for His sake. GPD 22/3/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 1/18/16

          In all the ups and downs in life, we can always trust our God, my ‘Rock’. “But the Lord has Become my stronghold, And my God, The Rock of my refuge.” In all that we endure in our life, we can always trust that God, the Lord, will be in our corner, “Our Stronghold.” And what’s more, “The Rock of my refuge”.

          What else need be said?

GPD 1/18/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 1/17/16

          The Lord is always there, keeping us, watching over us, always providing leadership for that time in our lives.

          “You led Your people Like a flock, By the hand of Moses and Aaron.” Psalm 77,20.

           That’s always a thing we can count on, for we are His children whom He loved so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to the cross to die for our sins. In return, we should always be eager to tell of His love.

GPD 1/17/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 1/16/16

          As usual, St. Paul is ready with a word of advice, thus: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked, For whatever one sows. That will he also reap.”

          This bit of advice is something we’ve all experienced, haven’t we? If we spend time quarreling, we find ourselves enmeshed with quarrels. On the other hand, when we show loving care and concern, we will find that also being given to us.

GPD 1/16/16

Sade Tree Wisdom 1/15/16

          As usual, just in time, God did what He promised to Adam and Eve ages ago. St. Paul tells us. “But when the fullness of time Had come, God sent forth His Son Born of woman Born under the law”. Galatians 4,4.

          The purpose? ‘to redeem those who were under the law’, that is, all sinful human beings. And that includes us, sinners all, for “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”

          And that is the good news we are eager to share with our fellow human beings, sinners all.

GPD 1/15/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 1/14/16

          All we need to do is just observe. “The heavens declare the glory of God, And the sky above Proclaims His handiwork… There is no speech, Nor language, where Their voice is not heard” Psalm 19,1.3.

          St. Paul repeated that advice in Romans chapter l, and his conclusion was “they are without excuse”. That’s pretty sad, there’s no excuse for being ignorant of God and His works, namely sending His Son to pay for our sins.

          So, now you know.

GPD 1/14/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 1/13/16

          The President’s speech to the nation reminded me of these words from LSB 797,2: “Trust not in rulers, They are but mortal; Earthborn they are and soon decay. Vain are their counsels at life’s Last portal, When the dark grave engulfs its prey. Since mortals can no help afford, Place all your trust in Christ, our Lord. care for him.” LSB 797,2.

          Also brings to mind the words of Psalm 8,4: “What is man, that You are mindful of him, and the son of man, that You care for him?”

          Some food for thought.

GPD l/13/16

Shade Tree Wisdom 1/11/16

          During the Christmas season the phrase “Jesus is the reason for season” often popped up here and there. Listen to the ancient prophet Ezekiel for the reason. “For I have no Pleasure in the death Of anyone. Declares the Lord God; So turn and live.” Ezekiel 18,32

          There, in that simple declaration, is the only reason Jesus was born, took on the sins we daily commit. Himself human flesh, lived, suffered, and died, rose again to glory, just to pay for the sins we daily commit.

 GPD 1/11/16