Unwrapping Christmas Joy and Beyond

 

Christmas Has Come and Gone

Beloved friends and family,

As I sit down to pen this post, the echoes of festive cheer still resonate in my heart. Yes, it’s true – Christmas has once again graced us with its magical presence, and just as swiftly, bid us adieu.

The flurry of excitement, the joyous reunions, and the warmth of love shared during this season have left an indelible mark on our souls. All the boxes Santa, err Amazon, brought to the front porch have long been carried into the house. We opened the boxes and packages, verifying the received orders. From their former home is the box with a smile under the company name. The supplier promised everything from A to Z. We re-wrapped the contents in magical paper covered with Santas, snowmen, candy canes, and even stars over mangers.

Excitement to Aftermath

Within the previous twenty-four to thirty-six hours, the wrapped gifts were delivered or opened. The air once infused with the scent of anticipation, though now, the excitement has settled into the muted aftermath of celebration. Remnants of the season lie scattered around the house. Bows, ribbons, and crumpled papers with tags and tape now litter the floor. The present’s contents are spewed across sofas, love seats, coffee tables. A floor, once a pristine canvas, is now a tapestry of holiday remnants, a testament to the joyous chaos that ensued.

Now What?

The question that lingers in the air like a delicate snowflake is – what now?

The routine unfolds predictably. New socks and undies, a few even adorned with holiday motifs, will undergo the ritual of washing before finding their place in the proper chest of drawers or dresser drawers. Nana and grandpas will gather trash bags, their sighs mingling with the rustle of torn wrapping paper as they contemplate the disposal of holiday excess. They’re already missing their precious children and while missing the grandkids, they feel a little guilty. They’re glad the grandkid’s are gone back home with their parents.

Indecision reigns as moms ponder the fate of the new acquisitions. A select few will become cherished staples in daily life, while others await their destiny, teetering on the edge of becoming garage sale treasures or contributions to a local charity.

The lucky few will not have over spent. The most fortunate will have paid for the items. The impulsive and undisciplined added the purchases to their credit cards monthly balance, causing financial pressures on their quality of life and even relationships.

A Hush Descends

In the wake of the festive storm, a hush descends. A very few among us will take a moment to reflect on the true essence of Christmas. Perhaps they will turn to the pages of the Bible, finding solace and meaning in the timeless story of Jesus. However, for the masses, the routine resumes. Jesus, like a cherished ornament, is gently placed back in the closet until the next significant occasion—perhaps Easter or a family funeral.

True Gifts Endure

And so, with a sigh of contentment and a touch of nostalgia, we bid adieu to another Christmas. Yet, for the fortunate, the true gifts of the season endure. As we clear away the holiday clutter, may we replace it with the daily presence and worship of Jesus, the greatest gift of all.

If you’re curious about my personal journey to discovering and embracing Christianity, I invite you to click HERE for my story.

Wishing you all a season of love, reflection, and newfound grace as we step into the dawn of a new year.

Salt and Light

Salt and Light

While serving as a deacon at Prestonwood Baptist Church in 2007 my pastor, Dr Jack Graham, challenged the deacons to get more involved and think creatively on how to have more witnessing opportunities. Most of us have few non-Believers in our lives and don’t belong to groups with non-Christians members he stated.

Your Circles of Influence

What can you do to increase the number of persons without Christ in your circles of influence?  Maybe you need to become the self and light in a civic club or community organization for example. Joining a group outside of church can help you build relationship and bridges to the non-Believers for the purpose of sharing your faith. 

A Two-fold Approach

My response was two-fold. First, I joined a secular writer’s group. My churchy writing was met with less than enthusiasm in the first-amendment group. Graphic violence, steamy romance, and LGBTQ+ stories were embraced by the group; my Jesus and Bible-based stories, not so much.

Second, I started writing and reading each morning in coffee shops. After a few weeks many of the regular patrons would ask me what I was doing. I’d tell them I was writing Christian nonfiction or religious sci-fi. 

Some rolled their eyes and moved on. Most would next say, tell me about your writing. The same held true with asking about the book I was reading.

Many times they would ask me what I’m reading. Is it any good? What’s it about?

Sometimes I give them the copy of the book. Other times they would write down the same and days or weeks later they smile when they see me at my table and hold up their copy of the book. 

God has used these moments for me to get books on caregiving, Christian parenting, Christian living, and Christian fiction in the hands of non-Believers, persons that have dropped out of church, and seekers.

Today’s Experience

This morning I read my morning devotional from “A Place at His Table” by Jeannie Waters. While reading I had two people interrupt me and ask about the book. 

One younger woman asked “whose table” the book was talking about. I shared a few brief comments I’d gleaned from the books introduction. I mentioned the table tips and she got excited. 

The other person was a retired judge I knew. She laughed and said I did a good job of vetting books. She said she’ll have to check it out, especially with the holidays coming. 

I see the first woman regularly at my gym and from time to time at the coffeeshop. The second lady I’ve seen for months as she picks up her coffee. She gets coffee and reads most morning. I still remember the morning she interrupted me and said, you’re a writer. She sated, I asked one of the baristas what you do here every day, that’s how I know. I’m always looking for something good to read, tell me about what you write.

Yes, you can have opportunities to share your faith when reading a book. My going to the same place over and over builds a feel of the familiar and a sense of comfort when the regulars come and go and see me doing my thing. 

And while here, many times the Father tugs at their heart and uses me … and sometimes your writing to share the Message of Jesus.

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Habakkuk 2:2-3 KJV

Learn More Here

A Place at His Table by Jeannie Waters is available from Amazon. Here’s a link where you can learn more on the book. A Place at His Table.

July: A Month of Birthdays and New Beginnings

Benita, Jimmie, and Kristopher Kepler 1977
Benita, Jimmie, and Kristopher Kepler
from February 1977

July: A Month of Birthdays and New Beginnings

July is an extraordinary month, filled with celebrations and significant milestones. For one, it marks the birthday of America, a time of patriotism and fireworks. But for me, July holds an even deeper meaning—it’s my spiritual birthday.

What Is a Spiritual Birthday?

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is a spiritual birthday? Well, let me explain. You see, everyone has a physical birthday, the day they were born into this world. Mine happened on November 25, 1953, at Brooke Army General Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. 

However, a spiritual birthday is different. It’s the day when a person experiences a profound transformation, accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, and embarking on a new spiritual journey. 

My spiritual birthday is July 11, 1977, a date etched in my heart forever, when I was “born again” and found salvation at the First Baptist Church of Lakewood in Tacoma, Washington.

My Story

Allow me to share with you the story of my own spiritual awakening, the day that changed the course of my life forever.

Back in July 1977, I was a second lieutenant serving in the United States Army at Fort Lewis, Washington. Life seemed to be going splendidly. I had a loving and intelligent wife, and we had welcomed our first child earlier that year. Professionally, I was excelling, receiving accolades for my work and even being offered a regular army commission. Yet, despite all the achievements and blessings, there was an unexplained void, a sense of emptiness deep within me.

In my pursuit of fulfillment, I tried various avenues. I indulged in drinking, sought solace in relationships, chased material possessions, and immersed myself in the social scene. But no matter what I did, that elusive something remained absent from my life. I sensed that there had to be more, something I was missing.

It was during this time that I became involved with a group of men at my church who seemed to possess a profound sense of purpose and contentment. Intrigued, I joined them for a Bible study. Little did I know that this encounter would lead me to the answers I had been desperately seeking.

Through the study, I discovered that God had provided us with a guidebook for life—the Bible. It held the key to addressing the problems we face and filling the void within us. 

I learned that I was not here by accident, but rather, I had a purpose. Most importantly, I discovered that Jesus loves me and desires to have a personal relationship with me. However, sin had created a separation between us.

I realized I had a sin problem.

Coming to terms with my own sinfulness was a crucial turning point. The Bible states, 

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

Romans 3:23 

I realized that despite my best efforts to be good and virtuous, I couldn’t save myself. Good deeds alone wouldn’t secure my place in heaven.

I learned there was a penalty to be paid for my sin.

The Bible also teaches that there is a penalty for sin—

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  

Romans 6:23

It was clear to me that I needed a solution, a way to bridge the gap between my sinful nature and God’s righteousness.

I learned God provided a promise.

Thankfully, God provided a promise—a way for us to be saved. 

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

John 3:16

This verse revealed to me that God’s love is so immense that He sacrificed His only Son, Jesus Christ, to pay the price for our sins.

I learned that God made provision for me.

In light of this revelation, I learned that I could receive God’s gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. 

“If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Romans 10:9-10

It became clear to me that by acknowledging my need for a savior and accepting Jesus into my heart and life, I could experience the transformative power of His love.

I prayed to accept the gift of eternal life through Jesus.

In a heartfelt prayer, I embraced this gift of eternal life through Jesus. I acknowledged my sins, believed in His sacrifice on the cross, and invited Him to be the Lord of my life.

It was a moment of surrender, a surrender that would forever shape my journey.

What came next? 

From that day forward, my life has been far from perfect. I’ve stumbled and made mistakes along the way, sometimes veering off course. But amidst it all, I’ve found direction, purpose, and unshakeable peace.

The Bible has become my compass, guiding me through life’s trials and offering timeless principles for daily living. I’ve never been alone on this journey, for the presence of God has been with me every step of the way.

What About You?

Now, I pose a question to you: Have you experienced your own spiritual rebirth? Have you been “saved” and found solace in a higher power? 

Just as I did, you too can find salvation and peace. 

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. … For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”  

Romans 10:9-10, 13

Why would an intelligent person believe in Christianity?”

But perhaps you are skeptical, wondering if an intelligent person or an intellectual can truly believe in God. The answer is a resounding yes!

Many brilliant minds have found faith in God and embraced Christianity. The real question should be, “How can an intelligent person believe in Christianity?” or “Why would an intelligent person believe in Christianity?” The truth is, faith and reason can coexist harmoniously.

As I reflect upon my spiritual journey, I can’t help but marvel at the extraordinary transformation that took place. 

Conclusion

That tired, weary face you see in the photo taken in February 1977 holds a story of profound change and hope. It captures a moment in time, a snapshot of a young couple embarking on a path filled with uncertainties and new beginnings.

So as we celebrate the birth of America this July, let us also remember the significance of personal rebirth, the power of salvation, and the transformative journey of faith.

About the photo

It was taken in February 1977 in my military quarters at Fort Lewis, Washington. In the photo in Miss Benita, my bride. We have been married since 1974. Also in the picture is our first child, Kristopher. Yes, I look tired. I had just returned home from a fourteen day training exercise. I had not had sleep in over 72 hours at the time the picture was taken. I was very tired. The picture was taken by my late father-in-law William Clarence Breeding, Sr. He and my mother-in-law had came to Washington State to help Miss Benita with our new son Kris.

Why I Write

My book “Caregiving: Biblical Insights From a Caregiver’s Journey” has been as high as #2 in paid sales in it’s category on Amazon. I write to share Jesus.

Morning Writing

My tall blonde roast coffee is sitting on the table. I’m at my usual table at my regular coffee house ready to begin my morning session. I know that in the age of mystics, life coaches, spiritual coaches, etc. that Jesus Christ and the Christian God isn’t that cool to many people and God is the brunt of disdain to some. But it’s God (God the Father, God the Son i.e .Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit) that I unapologetically write about.  

Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship

I’m 85% finished with the first draft of “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship” It’s book three in my series, “The Bible Speaks to Life Issues.” Book one in the series is “Prayers for the Chronically Ill.” Book two is “Caregiving: Biblical Insights From a Caregivers Journey.” 

Bible Teaches About God

I remember what the Bible teaches about God. When Moses asked who shall I tell the Egyptians that send me, in Exodus 3:14 God spoke to Moses and said, “And God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.” In a time when other cultures and peoples had gods of their creation and naming, God  replies to Moses without a name but a statement. The answer given here is crucial for understanding the identity and nature of God. This response becomes foundational in both Jewish and Christian theology. 

I AM WHO I AM

God identifies Himself using a phrase which is actually a description, or a statement: “I AM WHO I AM” or simply “I AM.” The first phrase, in Hebrew, is e’heyeh aser’ e’heyeh. This is most simply translated as “I am who I am.” Other translations of this important phrase include, “I am what I am,” or, “I will be what I will be,” and it could be taken to mean “that which will be, I am, that which will be” or similar ideas. Even in Hebrew, this is a statement which is not merely expressed as a name, or a word, or a description. This is a poetic expression of God’s very nature. 

God identifies Himself as the self-existent One

The statement carries a sense of necessity, simplicity, and absolute-ness. In using this particular phrasing, God identifies Himself as the self-existent One—the eternal, unique, uncreated God. God just is. He is the ultimate truth, the only necessary being, the beginning and end, the first cause. The question of who speaks from the burning bush is given an answer which is both simple and profound: “I AM.” This is how Moses would have interpreted the response, given the Hebrew words used.

No man cometh unto the Father, but by me

I’m reminded of the I AM statement in John 14:6 where Jesus is speaking and says, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” 

The only answer is Jesus

Good teachings, great philosophies, and the coolest life coaches are great but no the answer. The only answer is Jesus Christ. The timeless, unchanging, uncompromising teachings of the Bible about God and Jesus Christ are the ultimate answer. When you explore other teachings, philosophies, gurus etc.you are actually being a seeker of truth. Seek God and you’ll find the answer. You’ll find fulfillment, direction, purpose and even book a place in heaven for eternity.

Why I write

And that’s why I get up and come write almost every morning. I do it to share Jesus and share how the Bible speaks to us on life issues.

My story of accepting Jesus

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.

What Does the Bible Say About Listening?


How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.


Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.


 

What Does the Bible Say About Having Perfect Peace?


How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.


Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.


 

What Does the Bible Say About People Who Please God?


How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.


Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.


 

How I Found Hope In God’s Word

2Lt Jimmie A Kepler at airborne school
Attending airborne school at Fort Benning, Georgia (class 37-76), I served as class company commander.

Bible Verse

“I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.”


Psalm 130:5 KJV

My Story

Psalm 130:5 says, “I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.”

Is the trusting or waiting the harder part? Trust is hard. Waiting is harder. That’s why we hope our deepest desires get granted … they get granted right now. 

I’ve learned life doesn’t happen my way, on my timetable. Some things require waiting. And they are worth the wait. 

The Lord promises a reward to those who put their trust in Him. He will not disappoint us. 

It’s a lesson that I’ve learned through life experience. Would I go to war when I was only eighteen? Would I choose to place myself in harm’s way? Could I be a coward and run away to Canada? Or were there other choices? 

I was a young man during the Vietnam War, and the military draft was in full effect. Many of my peers were being called up to serve soon after graduation from high school. Everett Maxwell, my classmate Gary’s older brother, died in combat (KIA) my freshman year. You can see his entry on the Vietnam Wall memorial by clicking HERE.

Honorer on panel, line 17 of the wall – Everett Lee Maxwell

It was only a matter of time before they would draft me. I didn’t want to go to war, but I also didn’t want to flee the country or dodge the draft. I love America and would not leave.

Growing up in a career military family, I felt a strong sense of duty to my country. I wanted to serve in a way that aligned with my values and timing. 

My father served during the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and World War II. His example and counsel played a key role in my life. 

One day, my father said I should join the US Army ROTC program when I went to freshman orientation and registration at my university. ROTC stood for the Reserve Officer Training Corps. It was a way to defer serving in the military while still pursuing higher education. I could legally elude the draft and still offer my nation a meaningful military service on my time-table. ROTC allowed me to receive more training, complete a university education, and defer by four-years my entry into military service.

I tossed and turned at night as I debated signing up for ROTC. Dark thoughts consumed me for a couple of weeks. The decision weighed heavily every moment of the day. One thing I admitted was I felt a strong sense of duty to the US. Our freedom required people serving in the military. 

I started felling a calling to join the ROTC program. It was a decision that would change the course of my life forever. Committing to avoiding the draft short-term and serving in the US Army upon graduation, I joined US Army ROTC.

The ROTC program strengthened my mind. It helped me develop self-discipline. It was challenging, but I found I enjoyed the discipline and structure of military life.

During my time in ROTC, I also discovered a deep sense of camaraderie with my fellow cadets. We were all there for the same purpose, and we formed a tight-knit community that supported each other through the challenges of training. And ROTC made sure I attended classes and progressed to graduate on-time.

For me, this was the right choice.

My faith played a big role in my experience. I would trust in His timing.

When I graduated from ROTC, a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army and selected for active duty awaited me. Serving my nation was an honor, and I felt ready to face any obstacles that came my way.

A variety of leadership and staff roles within the military awaited me. I deployed to various parts of the world, and I saw firsthand the sacrifices that soldiers make to protect our country. Through it all, I relied on my faith to give me strength and courage.

Looking back on my decision to join the ROTC program, God led me to this path. It was a challenging experience, but it was also one that shaped me into the person I am today. 

I learned to wait on the Lord and putting my hope in His word is crucial during times of uncertainty.

Psalm 130:5 has been a guiding principle in my life. It has taught me waiting on the Lord and putting my hope in His word is crucial. 

It has also shown me that during difficult circumstances, God has a plan for our lives. We just need to trust in Him and wait for His perfect timing. 

Joining the US Army ROTC program allowed me to serve my country while staying true to my values. It was a decision that I will always be proud of.

My late wife Benita and our oldest son are in this picture taken in January 1977 at Fort Lewis, Washington. I was serving as a Weapons (81 mm Mortars and T.O.W. Missiles) Platoon Leader in C Company, 2 Bn 47th Infantry, 3rd Brigade of the Ninth Infantry Division at this time.

Who wrote Psalm 130:5  and when was it written?

Psalm 130:5 is part of Psalm 130, which is one of the penitential psalms (Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143) in the Book of Psalms. We don’t know Psalm 130’s author. Authorship attributed to King David in Jewish and Christian traditions.

The exact date of Psalm 130’s writing is unknown, but many scholars believe it was composed during the post-exilic period (after the Babylonian exile), between the 6th and 4th centuries BC. The themes of repentance, forgiveness, and hope in Psalm 130 are consistent with the experiences of the Jewish people during the post-exilic period, as they sought to rebuild their lives and their relationship with God after their captivity.

If David wrote the Psalm, it dates between 1010 BC to 970 BC.

What is the context of Psalm 130:5?

Psalm 130:5 is part of a penitential psalm, also known as a psalm of confession or a psalm of repentance. Expressing his deep distress and sorrow over his sin, the psalmist is asking God for forgiveness and mercy.

Psalm 130:5 is the psalmist’s expression of hope and faith in God’s forgiveness and mercy. The psalmist is waiting for God to hear his prayer and forgive his sins, and he places his trust in God’s word and promises.

The preceding verses (Psalm 130:1-4) express the psalmist’s sense of guilt and his cry for mercy: “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord! Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy! If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.”

After expressing his hope in God’s word in verse 5, the psalmist continues to wait on the Lord, comparing his waiting to that of a watchman waiting for the morning (verse 6). He then urges the people of Israel to put their hope in the Lord, who is merciful and forgiving (verses 7-8).

Overall, the context of Psalm 130:5 is one of deep repentance and a strong faith in God’s mercy and forgiveness. The psalmist acknowledges his sinfulness and his need for forgiveness, but he places his trust in God’s word and waits patiently for the Lord to answer his prayer.

What is the meaning of Psalm 130:5?

This verse expresses a deep trust and confidence in God’s promises and His word. It acknowledges that sometimes we must wait for God’s timing, but even in that waiting, we can find hope and comfort in His promises.

The context of this psalm is one of repentance and seeking forgiveness from God. The psalmist cries out to God from the depths of despair, asking for mercy and forgiveness for their sins. In verse 5, the psalmist expresses a willingness to wait for God’s response and to trust in His word.

Psalm 130:5 is a reminder to put our hope in God and to trust in His promises, even in times of waiting and uncertainty.

What does “I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait,” in Psalm 130:5 mean?

Psalm 130:5 expresses a deep sense of trust and dependence on God.

Waiting for the Lord refers to trusting in God’s timing and plan for our lives. It means that we acknowledge God is in control and that we wait for Him to act in His way and His time.

The phrase “my soul waits” emphasizes waiting not just on a physical or external level, but also on a spiritual and internal level. It shows a deep longing and desire for God and His presence, recognizing that our souls find true rest and peace in Him.

What does and in his word I put my hope in His word” Psalm 130:5 mean?

The phrase “in his word, I put my hope” emphasizes trusting in God’s promises and His written word. The Bible is a source of comfort and guidance for believers, and it reminds us of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love towards us. Therefore, as we wait for the Lord, we can place our hope in His promises, knowing that He will fulfill them in His perfect timing.The phrase “in his word” refers to God’s promises, and the teachings found in the Scriptures.

The psalmist is expressing his trust and confidence in God’s promises and instructions as a source of comfort and hope. By placing his hope in God’s word, he is affirming his belief that God’s word is true, and that God will fulfill his promises.

The psalmist is also acknowledging that waiting on the Lord can be difficult and requires patience, but he will wait and trust in God’s word, despite any challenges or hardships he may face. The psalmist’s ultimate hope is not in his own strength or ability, but in God’s faithfulness and the power to deliver him.

What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 130:5  (KJV, NIV & ESV)

 

Psalm 130:5 KJV biblical translation says:

I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

Psalm 130:5 KJV

 

Psalm 130:5 NIV biblical translation says:

I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.

Psalm 130:5 NIV

 

Psalm 130:5 ESV biblical translation says:

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope;

Psalm 130:5 ESV

How does Psalm 130:5 give encouragement?

  1. Patience and trust: The verse encourages us to wait for the Lord, showing that God’s timing may not always align with our own, but we can trust He will come through for us.
  2. Hope: By putting our hope in God’s word, we can find comfort and assurance that He will fulfill His promises and provide for us.
  3. Wholehearted devotion: The phrase “my whole being waits” suggests a level of complete devotion and surrender to God, which can empower and encourage in times of difficulty or uncertainty.

Overall, this verse reminds us we can find encouragement and strength in God’s promises and trust in His faithfulness, even when we face challenges or waiting for answers.

How can I apply Psalm 130:5 to my life?

Psalm 130:5 says, “I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope.” This verse speaks about waiting on the Lord and putting our hope in His word. Here are a few ways you can apply this verse to your life:

  1. Cultivate a spirit of patience: Waiting on the Lord requires patience. Instead of rushing ahead with your plans and desires, take time to seek God’s will and wait for His timing. This may require a shift in your mindset and a willingness to trust that God’s plan is best.
  2. Spend time in God’s word: The psalmist puts his hope in God’s word. Make it a priority to read the Bible and allow God’s truth to shape your perspective and guide your decisions.
  3. Trust God’s faithfulness: When we wait on the Lord, we are confident in His faithfulness. He will not let us down, even when we face difficult circumstances. Remembering God’s faithfulness in the past can give us hope and courage for the future.
  4. Surrender your worries to God: Waiting can be difficult, especially during anxious times. Pray and surrender your worries to God. Trust that He is in control and that He will work things out for your good.

By applying these principles to your life, you can cultivate a deeper trust in God and experience the peace that comes from waiting for Him.

A model or example prayer using Psalm 130:5

Dear God,

I come before you today with a humble heart, seeking your grace and forgiveness. Your word in Psalm 130:5 reminds me I can put my hope in you because of your unfailing love, and I hold on to that promise today.

Lord, I confess I have fallen short of your glory. I ask for your forgiveness for the times when I have sinned against you and others. I pray for your mercy and your loving kindness to wash over me and renew me.

I also pray for the strength and courage to face the challenges ahead. Please give me the wisdom to make the right decisions and to follow your will in all things. Help me trust in your guidance and to walk in your ways.

Thank you for your steadfast love and faithfulness, even during difficult circumstances. I trust in your goodness and your power to see me through whatever lies ahead.

In Jesus’ name I pray, 

Amen.

Conclusion:

Psalm 130:5 speaks about waiting on the Lord and putting our hope in His word. Waiting on the Lord requires patience. Instead of rushing ahead with your plans and desires, take time to seek God’s will and wait for His timing. This may require a shift in your mindset and a willingness to trust that God’s plan is best.

The psalmist puts his hope in God’s word. Make it a priority to read the Bible regularly and allow God’s truth to shape your perspective and guide your decisions.

When we wait on the Lord and be confident in His faithfulness. He will not let us down, even when we face difficult circumstances. Remembering God’s faithfulness in the past can give us hope and courage for the future.

Waiting can be difficult, especially when anxious about the outcome. Pray and surrender your worries to God. Trust that He is in control and that He will work things out for your good.

By applying these principles to your life, you can cultivate a deeper trust in God and experience the peace that comes from waiting for Him.

What Does the Bible Say About Security?


How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.


Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.


 

What Does the Bible Say About Faithfulness and Productivity?


How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.


Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.