Liz Curtis Higgs's Blog, page 2

His Wonderful Deeds

My camera is never busier than during the month of October. Ohhh, the scarlet and gold beauties out there. Suppose we gaze at some glorious trees as we consider His glorious deeds (and get ready for a colorful giveaway!).

Cause me to understand the way of your precepts, that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds. Psalm 119:27

Cause me to understand… Psalm 119:27

Four words in English, but just one word in the original Hebrew: bin, “to discern.” Since we can’t discern the precepts of the Lord on our own, we’re asking Him to break it down for us.

However we say it — “make me understand” (CJB) or “learn thou me”” (WYC) or “help me” (NCV) — it’s a heartfelt cry for clarity. Once we understand the how and why of something, it’s easier to grasp what it means for us.

…the way of your precepts,… Psalm 119:27

(Sidebar: When I hear the word precepts, I immediately think of Kay Arthur, who has been teaching God’s Word, “precept upon precept,” for nearly six decades. The last time I heard her speak, she was still on point and still on fire for the Lord. My hero.)

Isn’t it wonderful that we can ask God to help us grasp what His “precepts are about” (CEB)? We don’t have to simply take Him at His Word (though we can, of course). Rather, He invites us to know the “meaning” (CSB) and “function” of His “rules” (NIrV) and “commandments” (NLT).

He loves us enough to make certain we understand His teachings “inside and out” (MSG). And here’s what He asks us to do with that knowledge…

…that I may meditate on… Psalm 119:27

Now, that’s a surprise. Having taught us all His commandments, you’d think God would expect us to act on them immediately. To work, work, work. To do, do, do.

But that’s not what this verse says. We’re to “think deeply about” (NIrV) everything He has created. To “contemplate” (CEB) and “ponder” (MSG) the wonderful things He has done, instead of focusing on who we are and what we might accomplish.

It seems God is far more interested in our worship than our work.

…your wonderful deeds. Psalm 119:27

What might happen if we occupied our thoughts with His “wondrous acts” (ISV), or mediated on His “miracle-wonders” (MSG), or marveled over His “marvels” (WYC)?

I think it might change everything about how we do life.

Because the more we understand who He is and what matters to Him, the more we’ll fall silent and remain still, filled with holy awe and a sense of wonder. It’s the heart of worship, and it’s what He loves and deserves most.

Heavenly Father, help us to understand and meditate, to discern and contemplate, to be still and know. We have learned how to work. Teach us how to worship. Amen and amen.

Are you ready to answer the question I posed? What might happen if we focused on His wonderful deeds, rather than our own? Scroll down to share your thoughts.

I’m tickled to share autographed copies of two of my best-selling children’s books, The Pumpkin Patch Parable and The Pine Tree Parable. On Tuesday, October 15 at 9:00pm EDT I’ll choose three wonderful winners from all who post a comment here.

Thanks for opening God’s Word with me on this October day!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed our October 2nd Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch / listen as we meet one of the original Jesus Girls, Elizabeth from Luke 1.  And wouldn’t it be grand to connect in person at one of our autumn events? You’ll find details on my calendar here.

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Too Wonderful

Today we might say, “I can’t wrap my head around it.” Three thousand years ago, King David put it this way:

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Psalm 139:6

Such knowledge… Psalm 139:6

What “extraordinary knowledge” (HCSB) might that be? The verses that come before it describe His mind-boggling wisdom. “Knowledge like this” (ISV):

You have searched me,  Lord , and you know me.

You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.

You discern my going out and my lying down;   you are familiar with all my ways.

Before a word is on my tongue   you,  Lord , know it completely.

You hem me in behind and before,   and you lay your hand upon me.

Psalm 139:1-5

Right. “That kind of knowledge” (CEB). A deep and intimate understanding of who we are, what we do, where we go, how we think, and even what we’re going to say. Yikes.

“How well you know me” (NIRV), Lord, even as You surround me on all sides, even as You place Your hand on me.

Such a thing would be terrifying if He didn’t love us. But He does love us. Completely.

…is too wonderful for me… Psalm 139:6

Too wonderful. Too glorious. “Too amazing for me” (ISV), and way “too great for me to understand!” (NLT).

Isn’t that the truth of it? Just when I begin to think of God as my friend and companion, His Word reminds me He is also King of kings and Lord of lords and Creator of the universe and…and…and.

“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” Romans 11:33

Beloved, if we’re not astounded by His infinite wisdom and overwhelmed by His boundless knowledge, we’re not looking in the right direction.

…too lofty for me to attain. Psalm 139:6

Like the hills and mountains pictured here, God’s wisdom is “so high above me” (CEB) and so far “beyond me” (CSB), I can never hope to reach the summit.

I can study it, admire it, point people to it, but “I cannot grasp it” (EHV), no matter how much effort I expend, and “I cannot fathom it” (ISV) by any earthly measurement.

Even if I spend the whole of my life trying, “I can’t take it all in!” (MSG)

That’s exactly the kind of God I’m grateful to serve. Too majestic, too high, too wonderful to wrap my head around. But never too much.

Heavenly Father, You are everywhere and You are everything. You know us better than we know ourselves. Seeing You high and lifted up, we are humbled and put in our rightful place. When our hearts are heavy, raise our heads so we look toward You for comfort. When our minds are spinning with worries and concerns, guide our thoughts in Your direction and fill us with Your peace. Amen and amen.

I have a special giveaway for September — three new books for teen girls and young women, meant for you to share with someone you love and want to encourage. Wait It Out by Jamie Grace, Show Up for Your Life by Chrystal Evans Hurst, and Radiant by Priscilla Shirer.

Since this post is all about knowledge, my question for you is one posed by Chrystal in her book: What would you tell your teenage self? What do you know now you wish you’d known then? Scroll down to share your thoughts. I’ll look forward to reading them, and will choose one winner on Tuesday, September 17 at 9:00pm ET.

Thanks for joining me for another wonderful month in God’s Word!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed our September 4th Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and/or listen as we meet Joanna and Susanna from Luke 8.  And I’d love to see you in person at one of my fall events. Details here. Finally, if you’ve not read my latest book, 31 Proverbs to Light Your Path, it’s a perfect fit for fall and on sale right now for just $6.87!

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Glorious Splendor, Wonderful Works

Of all my childhood summer memories, I cherish most the days we spent at the shore.

Bare feet on hot sand. Bright sun bearing down. Collecting shells by the pocketful. Building sand castles with plastic buckets. Running into the sea, laughing loud, arms spread wide.

Nothing but ocean stretched to the horizon and beyond. That vastness put everything in perspective. Small us. Big God.

On this Wonderful Wednesday, we’re admiring some of the beautiful shorelines God created, and marveling that this same God also created us. Wonder of wonders!

So, our verse for August:

On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wonderful works, I will meditate. Psalm 145:5 NASB

On the glorious splendor… Psalm 145:5 NASB

Not one but two over-the-top words here, as if David the psalmist was overwhelmed trying to express “the beauty of thy glorious majesty” (GNV) and “the magnificence of the glory of thine holiness” (WYC).

Where to start? Or rather, where to stop?

Some things even language can’t capture. Our eyes widen and our mouths drop open and we find it hard to breathe. The very thought of Him is…ohhh.

…of Your majesty… Psalm 145:5 NASB

I love the NASB: New American Standard Bible. The language is elegant, and the scholarship trustworthy.

What I really love? The pronouns referring to the Holy One are capitalized — He when the Lord is spoken about and You when the Lord is spoken to.

In my first published book – now long out-of-print – I also wrote He and You, thinking that was how it was done. Soon, it became acceptable, even preferable for many publishers, to use lower-case pronouns for deity, so I followed suit.

But in my recent books – It’s Good to Be Queen, 31 Verses to Write on Your Heart, The Women of Easter, and 31 Proverbs to Light Your Path – I’ve returned to capitalizing Him, His, He, You, and Your when referring to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

It’s not a question of correct or incorrect. Zero judgment of how other writers handle things. For me, it just feels right and good – and long overdue.

You are worthy of honor, Lord, and “Your beauty and splendor have everyone talking” (MSG). We’re talking to You and about You. Blown away by “the shining-greatness of Your power” (NLV). Going on and on about all You are and all You have done.

…and on Your wonderful works,… Psalm 145:5 NASB

Think how many “mighty miracles” (CEV) God has performed just this summer. Babies born. Marriages healed. Diseases banished. Broken hearts mended. Souls rescued. Lives redeemed.

Lord, when we consider “the story of your wonders” (CJB), when we reflect on “Your great works” (NLV) and “amazing deeds!” (NET), when we see how big You are and how small we are, when we look at “the glory of Thy majesty, and the matters of Thy wonders” (YLT), words fail us.

The truth is, You don’t need our words, Lord. We need Yours.

…I will meditate… Psalm 145:5 NASB

Before we act on His counsel and put our faith in motion, we’re called to “contemplate” (CEB) and “focus on” (NET) and “spend time thinking about” (NIrV) what He is asking us to do. To consider our lives from His eternal perspective. To acknowledge His wonderful works, and imagine what He wants to accomplish in us and through us, all for the sake of the Gospel.

Heavenly Father, give us a sense of wonder when we gaze at Your creation. Show us the works of Your hands, Your mighty miracles, unfolding all around us. Help us see what You see, so we can help others see You. In Jesus’ beautiful name, Amen.

For our August giveaway, I’ve framed three sets of photos featuring five of my favorite shorelines in New Zealand, Scotland, and South Africa. Scroll down to share your thoughts about where you have discovered the glorious splendor of His majesty. (It might be your backyard.) I’ll choose three winners on Tuesday, August 20 at 9:00pm EDT, then pop your 5×7 frame and photos in the mail.

Bless you for spending a few minutes standing on the shore with me!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed our August 7th Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and/or listen as we meet Euodia and Syntyche — two Jesus Girls with one big problem.

And if you’d like to catch me in person this autumn, take a look at my speaking calendar. What a joy it would be to see you!

 

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Fearfully and Wonderfully

I have a friend in Arkansas who uses only white blooms in her landscaping. Boring? Not for a minute.

Impatiens cover the ground with their delicate white petals. Azaleas offer a profusion of ruffled white flowers. Hydrangeas steal the show with their snowy white blossoms against vivid green foliage, and white gardenias delight the eye and scent the air.

Every flowering plant of every color — including these South African lovelies I photographed a decade ago — is prized for its unique shape and form, glorifying its Creator by simply doing what it was made to do: bloom and grow.

Which brings us to you, beloved. Far more beautiful than any flower, you were made to honor the One who created you, to bask in His love and share it with others, to bloom according to His design, season after season.

This month’s verse assures us we are exactly what He created us to be:

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

I praise you… Psalm 139:14

When you look in the mirror, is this the first thought that pops into your mind: “I will give thanks unto thee” (ASV)?

Hmm. Maybe not.

For some of us, it’s more like, “Thanks a lot, Lord, for my thinning hair or this extra chin or my unibrow or these bags under my eyes or…” Instead of rejoicing over our fearfully and wonderfully made bodies, we blame our Creator, our genes, even ourselves for whatever flaws we see in the mirror.

But what God sees is beautiful.

…because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;… Psalm 139:14

Yes, you are “remarkably” (CSB) made and truly “amazing” (ICB). Notice it isn’t past tense. Not, “I was cute when I was a baby, but baby, look at the mess I am now.”

No way. We’re talking right this minute. “Body and soul, I am marvelously made!” (MSG) and “so wonderfully complex!” (NLT).

Even white flowers have faint touches of blue or yellow or pink. We may not see those subtle differences, but God does. He misses nothing.

…your works are wonderful,… Psalm 139:14

Again, our word for 2019: wonderful. In the Hebrew here, it means “surpassing or extraordinary.”

We have no problem praising God for the beauty of His creation. From mountains to oceans to forests to sunsets, “Everything you do is marvelous!” (CEV).

The psalmist is asking us to view ourselves and others with the same measure of grace. To celebrate our differences, and say to the Lord, “What you have done is wonderful” (EXB). Because it is.

His Word says so and our hearts know so.

…I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

However hard it may be for us to admit it, accept it, and applaud it, deep down we know God does not make anything that doesn’t please Him. “My soul knoweth right well” (ASV) that He is wonderful, and “I am fully aware” (ISV) that the works of His hands are also wonderful.

Including you, my friend.

Heavenly Father, help us not only read your Word, but also believe your Word. Wash away a life of lies and give us enough courage to embrace the truth. We are loved and we are lovely. You are more than wonderful and you are more than worthy of our praise. Amen.

Naturally, our special giveaway for July is a wonderful wreath made of faux white magnolias with broad, glossy leaves. At 24” in diameter and 8” deep, this wreath is a perfect fit for your mantel, doorway, window, or dining table. I liked it so much, I bought one for you!

Scroll down to share your thoughts on what it means to be fearfully and wonderfully made. Then I’ll choose a winner on Tuesday, July 16 at 9:00pm EDT.

Bless you for spending a few minutes of your summer with me!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed our July 3rd Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and/or listen as we get to know Lois and Eunice — two remarkable Jesus Girls. And if you’re curious where I’ll be speaking this fall, take a look at my calendar. Sure would be wonderful to see you!

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Wonderful Words

Can eight words change your life? Let’s find out.

Today’s short verse is tucked inside the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119 — a love song to God’s Word.

You can sing the whole psalm as a hymn — feel free to make up your own melody, just as He encourages us to do (Ephesians 5:19). Or you can offer it as a prayer — William Wilberforce often recited Psalm 119 while walking home from Parliament.

So, what are these eight wonderful, life-changing words?

Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them. Psalm 119:129 

Your statutes… Psalm 119:129

Honestly, the word “statutes” always throws me off because I start picturing statues. Here we’re talking about His “testimonies” (KJ21), “decrees” (CSB), “teachings” (CEV), “rules” (ERV), and my personal favorite, “thy witnessings” (WYC).

In a word, His Word. For the psalmist, it meant the Torah, the law of God revealed to Moses and recorded in the first five books of the Bible. For us it means all of God’s Word, first page to last.

If we want a life brimming with meaning. If we long for contentment, comfort, and a deep sense of peace. If we need an ongoing reminder of God’s love for us, it starts here: embracing the truth of His Word and celebrating the sheer goodness of His commands.

…are wonderful;… Psalm 119:129

Yes, they are. His words are “marvelous” (NET), “far exceeding anything conceived by man” (AMPC).

There are books, and then there is the Bible.

I majored in English Literature in college, so I love books. But nothing compares to God’s Word. Nothing is more powerful, more beautiful, more purposeful. Lord, “every word you give me is a miracle word” (MSG).

And speaking of miracles…

We sold our old farmhouse this week, after calling it home for more than 26 years. Yes, it was hard to say good-bye. But it was also wonderful.

Walking through the property one last time, we discovered the only thing we’d somehow missed in weeks of cleaning and packing and moving: a handmade cross hanging inside the barn, right next to the door.

Our first instinct was to take it with us, until we realized it was meant to be there.

At Tuesday’s closing, the new owners excitedly told us about finding a cross in the barn.

Bill and I assured them, “We didn’t put it there. God did.”

This is what His Word does: it draws us to Him.

…therefore… Psalm 119:129

Because His commands, His laws, His words are so wonderful, they deserve a response from us.

So, “this is why” (CJB), beloved, we do what must be done.

…I obey them. Psalm 119:129

Here is the life-changing part. Not only reading the Word, but also doing the Word. Not merely talking about our faith, but also walking out our faith — a daily process of “hearing, receiving, loving, and obeying” (AMPC).

When it comes to God’s commands, we not only “respect them all” (CEV), we “follow them” (ERV), even when it’s challenging. We “observe them” (NET), even when it’s tempting to ignore His clear instructions. And we “protect them” (EXB), even when people call us foolish to cling to the His Word as our Source of truth.

His Word confirms and affirms. Teaches our hearts and preaches to our spirit. Shows us what we must do to be saved. Demonstrates His lovingkindness, verse after wonderful verse.

Have I mentioned lately how much I love the Bible?

Naturally, our special giveaway for June is a breathtakingly beautiful Bible from the NIV Artisan Collection. The printed hardcover features a hand-painted design, and the words are wonderful too: “God is within her, she will not fall” (Psalm 46:5). It even has artwork hidden in the gilded edges. I ordered a copy just for you!

Scroll down to share your thoughts on what you love most about God’s Word. Then I’ll choose a winner on Tuesday, June 18 at 9:00pm EDT.

Bless you for reading all the way to the end, dear friend!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed our June 5th Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and/or listen as we get to know Mary of Rome, Tryphena, Tryphosa, and Persis — four amazing Jesus Girls.

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Wonderful In Deed

I know, beloved. It’s May, not November, the month of Thanksgiving. But here’s the thing: we’re called to give thanks every day of every month of every year.

Why not right now? Surrounded by flowering dogwoods, redbuds, and lilacs, suppose we offer up a fragrant aroma of praise to the One who loves us so.

Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Psalm 107:21

Let them give thanks to the Lord… Psalm 107:21

The psalmist was definitely on fire when he wrote these words, because he repeated the same call to action four times – in verses 8, 15, 21, and 31. “Oh that men would praise the Lord” (KJ21).

We can hear an exclamation point, even if we don’t see one. And we can feel the power in the Hebrew word used here, yadah, which means “to throw down.” (So contemporary, right?) We’re to throw or cast our confession, thanksgiving, and praise in His direction. Not simply think about it — do it.

And what are we thankful for? You know.

…for his unfailing love… Psalm 107:21

Yes, absolutely. His “gracious” (ISV) and “faithful” (CEB) and “steadfast” (ESV) love. It never fades, never falters, and never fails. When fear burns in our hearts, He extinguishes it with His love. When we lose our way, He leads us home.

The much-cherished Hebrew word hesed is often rendered as “lovingkindness,” a truth that blossoms with mercy and tenderness.

God’s love is more than how He feels toward us. It’s all the things He does for us.

…and his wonderful deeds… Psalm 107:21

I love the word wonderful (especially on Wednesdays), but “awesome” (ISV) and “amazing” (NET) are equally sublime ways to describe His “works” (KJ21) and “wonders” (CJB), His “miracles” (EXB) and “marvels” (WYC).

Do you shy away from the word miracle? Is it a bit much? A tad over-the-top? I felt that way in the early days of my journey with Jesus. Now I use the word with joyous abandon, knowing we are surrounded by God’s miraculous deeds, just as His Word promises: “He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted” (Job 5:9).

We may not count each one. But God does.

When a child is conceived, it’s a miracle. The fact that it happens unseen and unbelievably often — worldwide, about 250 times every minute — doesn’t make conception any less miraculous. When that child is born, when life in the womb becomes life in the room, another miracle unfolds before our eyes. Wondrous!

God’s millions of miraculous deeds have one wonderful purpose.

…for mankind. Psalm 107:21

Sisters, don’t let mankind give you pause. God’s wonderful deeds are poured out for men and women, for “humanity!” (CJB), for “people!” (NET), and especially “for those he loves!” (TPT).

So many exclamation points. So many miracles. So many reasons to give thanks.

Today let’s say with the psalmist, “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples” (Psalm 77:14). Lord, for all the wonderful deeds we see and all the ones we miss, we give thanks with our whole hearts.

Our special giveaway for May is this lovely floral wreath sign, 12″ by 15″, made of Baltic birch wood with a gentle reminder to give thanks.

Scroll down to share your thoughts on what you are giving thanks for today. I’ll look forward to reading them and will choose three winners on Tuesday, May 14 at 10:00pm EDT.

Meanwhile, at the Higgs house, we’re giving thanks for 26 years at Laughing Heart Farm, as we prepare to sell our home to a fine young family. Thank you, Lord, for bringing just the right buyer to our doorstep, and letting us enjoy one last spring amid the blooming beauty of Your creation.

Thanks for joining me for another Wonderful Wednesday! (Even if it is, technically, Thursday…)

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed our May 1st Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and/or listen as we meet Phoebe. What a woman, and what a story!

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Into His Wonderful Light

I’m a writer, a woman full of words. Fifi LeFan is an artist, a woman full of light and color. Among her exquisite portraits here, you’ll find our April verse, which has everything we need to know as believers: who we are, what we’re called to do, and how God makes all this possible.

You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 

You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation… 1 Peter 2:9

It’s a powerful trio of Old Testament descriptions, which Peter extends to the followers of Christ, assuring us, “all the old titles of God’s people now belong to you” (Phillips).

Chosen, royal, and holy. Oh my. Not because of what we’ve done, but because of what Jesus did for us on the cross.

Then and now, God says we are “the people I formed for myself” (Isaiah 43:21). We didn’t stumble into the family of God, beloved. He chose us, declaring us “a kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exodus 19:6). Yes, wow.

Fifi and I agree: this description of how God sees us is our favorite.

…God’s special possession,… 1 Peter 2:9

We are a “treasure” (NIrV) to Him — something He values and guards and keeps close by His side. Since He “purchased” (DRA) us at a great price and “acquired” (YLT) us through His sacrifice, He knows intimately the value of each one of His children.

As a portrait artist, Fifi works from a photograph, but her heart’s desire is to see inside the soul of the person and capture who they genuinely are, not simply a photographic likeness. It’s the light in their eyes that invites her in, and us as well.

Fifi believes a portrait helps people grasp their true worth. “It validates them, realizing they are seen, knowing an artist has spent hours studying their features.” And to think, God has spent all of eternity looking at us! Seeing us, loving us, cherishing us.

You can imagine the joy of watching people react to the finished portrait. Fifi says, “Something happens when they see the way they are illuminated, when they see the light inside them — it’s His light, shining through.”

Whatever our talents, our training, or our daily tasks, as “God’s instruments” (MSG), we have a calling like no other.

…that you may declare the praises of him… 1 Peter 2:9

Look closely in the lower right corner of Fifi’s full-size paintings, and you’ll find her name, with a slender cross and GTG: Glory to God. It’s why she paints. It’s why I write. It’s why we all do what we do.

God empowers us to “tell about the wonderful things he has done” (ICB) and “proclaim the wondrous acts of the One who called you” (VOICE). If I were to list all the kindnesses God has shown me, the miracles He has showered on people I love, and the blessings He has poured over strangers I’ve met — friend, that list would stretch from sea to shining sea!

For those of us who’ve spent any portion of our life in the shadows, we’re especially grateful for the light of His grace.

…who called you out of darkness… 1 Peter 2:9

Fifi knows well that “inky darkness” (VOICE). Like many of us, she is a recovering approval addict, having grown up trying to earn the praise of others, laboring to be the light, rather than depending on His light. “Only when I was broken, when I couldn’t paint for three years, when I had nothing left inside of me — only then did I understand that darkness is the absence of color and God is all color and all beauty and all light.”

…into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

Wonderful indeed. And “marvelous” (AMP) and “amazing” (CEB). Fifi’s website sums up her mission and ours: “Expressing God’s Beauty. Reflecting His Light.”

We are moons to His sun — not producing light, but reflecting it.

Words like “brilliant” and “dazzling” and “shining” and “glorious” not only pepper Fifi’s speech; they also pour from her paintbrush.

Fifi says, “God overwhelmed me with His grace and with His presence, and gave me a heart for others who feel forgotten and desperate. All I want is to love Him and love people.”

Now I’m eager for you to experience that love in vibrant, living color. So, our giveaway this month is an original portrait by Fifi LeFan, who has been painting professionally for as many years as I’ve been speaking. The finished artwork will be an unframed 16 x 20 original watercolor, valued at $600. It’s a gift from Lizzie, meant to bless Fifi and you!

In the comment section below, share the first name of someone you’d love to see painted in beautiful watercolor and why that would be a blessing to them or to you. I’ll choose one winner on Tuesday, April 16 at 10:00am ET and reach out to request a photo.

Already thinking of special people and special occasions that might merit a Fifi original? Pop on her website or Facebook page to discover more of her work and how you can contact her.

Thanks for joining me for another Wonderful Wednesday!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed April’s first Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and/or listen as we get to know Priscilla (love that woman!). Meanwhile, meet my friend, Fifi.

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His Wonderful Plan

Today I meet with my oncologist and find out if the immunotherapy treatments I’ve had every three weeks for the last year are indeed kicking those old cancer cells to the curb.

If it’s working, praise the Lord. If it isn’t, praise the Lord. Because whatever happens next, God has a plan and it is, without a doubt, wonderful.

All this also comes from the Lord Almighty, whose plan is wonderful, whose wisdom is magnificent. Isaiah 28:29

All this also comes from… Isaiah 28:29

If you’re wondering, “all this what?” here’s the story. Right before this verse, Isaiah describes how a prudent farmer tills his soil and plants his crops, according to God’s counsel. “His God instructs him and teaches him the right way” (Isaiah 28:26).

So, “all these insights” (NIrV) that guide and direct us come from God. Of course they do. He is the Creator of Heaven and Earth. He is the First and the Last. He is the All This of All This.

That’s why we call Him…

…the Lord Almighty,… Isaiah 28:29

He is “Jehovah of hosts” (ASV), “the Lord All-Powerful” (CEV), and “God-of-the-Angel-Armies (MSG). No enemy can defeat Him. No stronghold can overcome Him. In the music and words of Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, “No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from His hand.”

I’m crazy about my oncologist, but it’s my Jesus who decides what’s next for me.

…whose plan is wonderful,… Isaiah 28:29

Yes, it is, beloved. “The plans God makes are wise, and they always succeed” (GNT). Always. Whatever God has planned for us is good because He is good. Always.

We can trust His “wondrous advice” (CSB) and “supernatural guidance” (NET), pressing on as if we’re going to live forever…because we are! That’s God’s wonderful plan for His children. “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:28).

No one.

…whose wisdom is magnificent. Isaiah 28:29

The mind that conceived such wonderful plans is indeed “excellent” (AMPC) and “glorious” (NIrV). In every way possible, God “hath made wisdom great!” (YLT).

Meanwhile, at the Higgs house we are celebrating our 33rd wedding anniversary tomorrow, March 14, with joy and abandon, counting on our wise and magnificent God to know how the year ahead will unfold.

Interesting thing about 33: it’s considered the year of wisdom and spiritual reflection (who knew?). Though the traditional gift is clothing, the modern gift for a 33rd anniversary is amethyst, often known as the wisdom stone.

So, with deep gratitude for all your prayers and encouragement over the years, I chose a special giveaway this month: a pair of natural amethyst earrings (4.66 carats) set in sterling silver (925) with a lever back especially for pierced ears. Aren’t they lovely?

Now it’s your turn: How has God revealed His wonderful plan for you recently? Share your thoughts below in the comments, then I’ll choose one winner on Saturday, March 16 at 10:00am ET and pop your pretty purple gemstones in the mail, along with a copy of The Women of Easter Special Edition.

Thanks for joining me for another Wonderful Wednesday!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed last week’s Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, listen as we learn about Lydia, a seller of purple and a powerful role model.

P.P.S. Dig deeper into His Story all through Lent with The Women of Easter Special Edition, available exclusively from ChristianBook.com. You’ll also find lots of free resources for The Women of Easter on my website. Blessings of the season!

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Wonderful, Marvelous, Miraculous Deeds

Mind if I use the LRV translation on this one, the Lizzie Revised Version? “Encourage one another as long as it is called ‘Wednesday.’” Because as long as it’s still called Wednesday somewhere (French Polynesia, the Cook Islands), then our Wonderful Wednesday study isn’t really late, right? It’s simply living in another time zone.

Thank goodness words like these are timeless:

We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 75:1 

This verse is in every way delicious and all kinds of wonderful. Before we dive in, suppose we take a half step back to catch the opening instructions:

For the director of music. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A psalm of Asaph. A song.

Asaph was a Levite who lived during the time of David. Along with other musicians from his tribe, he “stood on the east side of the altar, dressed in fine linen and playing cymbals, harps and lyres” (2 Chronicles 5:12). Quite the spectacle. And did I mention there were also 120 priests sounding trumpets? Whoa.

These ancient Israelites were definitely making a joyful noise, but what did it sound like? Can anyone hum a few bars of “Do Not Destroy”? Sadly, the musical notes are lost to antiquity, but we can speak, shout, or sing this psalm to a melody of our own choosing.

Here we go…

We praise you, God, we praise you,… Psalm 75:1

Gotta love the repetition: “We shall acknowledge to thee, we shall acknowledge” (WYC). Indeed, we shall, Lord. Praising and praising and blessing and blessing. “Yes, we give thanks!” (CEB).

He deserves an extra measure of praise, a second serving of thanks, an additional acknowledgement. How often do I thank people over and over for their small kindnesses, and yet I thank the Lord only once for His endless outpourings of love?

Lord, let me take a page from the psalmist and double my praise.

“We give thanks to you, O God! We give thanks!” (NET).

…for your Name is near;… Psalm 75:1

Though not every translation or paraphrase capitalizes the word Name, I love when they do: “Your Name is near” (AMPC) and “your Name is our favorite word” (MSG). So right.

When we speak His Name — Jesus, Lord, Savior, Messiah, Wonderful — we become more aware of His presence. He doesn’t move; we do and are moved to praise Him. “Our God, we thank you for being so near to us!” (CEV).

Nothing on earth is more comforting or more praiseworthy than His presence.

…people tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 75:1

Imagine a worship service where His “mighty works are all we talk about” (MSG). An hour or more during which people declare God’s “wondrous works” (CSB) and “marvelous deeds” (CEB), calling them out to one another in joyous celebration.

No sermon, no offering, no printed bulletins, just the chance to “rehearse” (AMPC) His wonders and “recount” (ESV) His wonderful deeds and “tell about the miracles” (NCV) our God has performed throughout eternity:

“He made the sun, the moon, and the stars!”
“He knit me in my mother’s womb!”
“He sacrificed His Son for our salvation!”

Maybe you’ve participated in a service like that. Call me next time? Please?

“I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.” Psalm 86:12

What might you praise God for today? Share your praise in the comments, then I’ll choose three names on Monday, February 18 at 10:00am ET to win The Women of Easter Special Edition, available exclusively from ChristianBook.com. A lovely green-and-blue hardcover, this new edition includes 16 journaling pages for your thoughts, prayers, notes, illustrations — whatever might help you dig deeper into His Story this Easter.

Thanks for joining me for another Wonderful Wednesday! Or…well…Thursday…

Your sister, Liz

P.S. The photos here were taken one bright winter’s day in Texas Hill Country. And the beautiful sheep painting above is the work of Fifi LeFan, a dear friend and gifted artist. Grateful to have her work hanging in my writing study, so I can get lost in those green hills whenever the mood strikes.

P.P.S. If you missed last week’s Wonderful Wednesday in the Word on Facebook LIVE, listen and watch as I share the joyous (and slightly hilarious) story of a New Testament woman caught in the middle of a series of miracles!

The post Wonderful, Marvelous, Miraculous Deeds appeared first on Liz Curtis Higgs.

Open Eyes, Open Heart

Welcome, beloved! It’s our second Wonderful Wednesday, with more gold-and-white Chrismons that point to Christ, and more encouragement to go deeper in His Word this year.

Even one simple truth can reset our thinking and restart our spiritual engines. Ready to dive into this month’s WONDERFUL verse?

Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. Psalm 119:18 

Open my eyes… Psalm 119:18

How often have we stumbled around, trying to find our own way? Now, at the start of a new year, we’re saying to the Lord, “open Thou mine eyes” (KJ21) so we can follow His leading, and “lighten thou mine eyes” (WYC) so we can be done with darkness, and “uncover my eyes” (LEB) so we can see what’s right in front of us: Him.

Because this is what we all long for…

…that I may see… Psalm 119:18

We not only want our eyes opened; we want the ability to see more clearly. To recognize God’s truth and reject the enemy’s lies. To focus on what matters. To not merely see, but “behold” (ASV). Oh, the power and majesty in that word!

With our eyes open wide, and our minds and hearts fully engaged, we can “examine” (CEB) His truth at length, “contemplate” (CSB) what it means in our lives, and “discover” (CEV) what He has for us this year and all the years to come.

And here’s what we’re going to find…

…wonderful things… Psalm 119:18

Truth that fills us with awe and overwhelms us with amazement. “Wondrous things” (ASV) that steal our breath (ASV). “Marvels” (WYC) beyond our imagining. “Great things” (NLV) only a great God could do.

This is the cry of our hearts: “Open my eyes to see the miracles” (EXB). They’re stirring inside us and unfolding all around us and waiting for us in His Word.

…in your law. Psalm 119:18

The word law can make us leery. We may see it as the opposite of grace, or a long list of rules, or something to be broken.

But here, God’s law means His “teachings” (ERV), His “Instruction” (CEB), the wisdom found in His “Torah” (TLV). In Psalm 119, by far the longest of all the psalms, each verse praises God’s Word, using many different names for it, including His commandments, His way, His testimonies, His precepts, His decrees, His truth, and yes, His law – all celebrating the wonderfulness of His divine revelation.

I fell in love with the Bible even before I fell in love with the One who wrote it. The beauty of the language captivated me. The timeless power of the stories thrilled my writer’s heart. In the end, it was His tender voice, leaping off the page, speaking directly to my soul, that demanded a response.

When we say yes to God, when we say yes to His Word and all the truth it contains, our lives are forever changed (and believe me, mine needed changing!). And He’s not done with us, beloved. The more we reflect on His Word, the more His Word is reflected in us.

What a blessing it is to open His Word with you today!

Suppose we memorize this wonderful verse? It’s only a dozen words. “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” Psalm 119:18. Easy, right? Say it once more. You got it!

Now, get ready for 22 minutes of joy, enthusiasm, biblical teaching, and Lizzie on a roll, sharing the wondrous story of one of the Jesus Girls from the New Testament, a woman named Tabitha. Watch it right here, right now, recorded LIVE on our first Wonderful Wednesday in January.

Next week on Facebook, it’s our first Wonderful Wednesday Giveaway, with three new books from Sheila Walsh, Annie Downs, and Candace Payne.

So, about the Chrismons. Since many of you asked about where to buy them or how to make them, I found a few helpful resources, including a book, Chrismons Basic Series, some , and a description of all the Chrismon designs with instructions you can download. Next Christmas, you’ll be ready!

Can you think of something WONDERFUL you discovered in God’s Word this week? Leave a comment. I’d love to read it and rejoice with you!

Your grateful sister,

Liz

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