Search Results

What Psalms 14 & 15 teach us about evaluating our own lives in the light of God's Word This week, many Christians will celebrate Ash Wednesday. If you were to attend an Ash Wednesday service, you would likely sing a hymn about repentance, participate in prayer and scripture reading describing the forgiveness and restoration offered through Christ, and finally you would go forward and kneel while the pastor drew a small cross on your forehead with a paste made from oil and the ashes of last Easter's palm fronds. I didn't grow up in a church denomination that observed Ash Wednesday or the subsequent days of Lent, but I have learned to appreciate the meaning and purpose of such traditions, especially those leading to reflection on how I am doing in my walk with Christ. However, personal reflection isn't something that we do only when a certain date rolls around. In fact, many women find the midlife season to be a season of introspection. Maybe it's because midlife is such a dramatic departure from the hubbub of household management with kids at home. We finally have time to ourselves, and many of us tend to spend at least little of it evaluating our progress and performance in life thus far. How might you do that this week as we begin the season of Lent? Well, our Psalms this week can provide us with a measuring tool we can use to evaluate our walk with God and recommit ourselves to following Him faithfully. Psalm 14 describes the actions of one whose heart is turned against God: The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. (Psalm 14:1, NIV) Hopefully, we look pretty good compared to that description! But take a look at the standard of righteousness the psalmist David describes for the one who abides with God: Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart. . . (Psalm 15:1-2, NIV) I know I don't quite live up to that standard! But as I think about the meaning of Ash Wednesday, I realize that God is always inviting me to come to him humbly with the ashes of my own attempts at right living and surrender them at the cross of Christ. There I receive forgiveness and encouragement to keep steadfastly following Jesus. What better time to do that than in midlife? In this season, we have the best view of both our past and future. We can see our successes and failures up to this point, and we have a clear and realistic picture of our own ability to make changes in the time we have left. Life transitions like the midlife season provide us with great opportunities for some honest evaluation, so this week, let's take some time to look carefully at our walk with Christ. Each day, the reflection questions below will guide you through careful reading of the scripture and an evaluation of your own heart and life. Be both honest and realistic with yourself, and then bring Christ the ashes and ask Him to make them beautiful again. He is our Redeemer, and He will be overjoyed to do that for us. Readings and Reflection Questions Monday's reading : Psalm 14 and Psalm 15 Reflection Questions: Constrast Psalm 14:1 and Psalm 15:2. What is said in the heart that makes a difference in a person's life? Now contrast Psalm 14:5 and the end of Psalm 15:5. What is the difference between the righteous and unrighteous person according to these verses? What might it mean to " not be shaken" in the season of midlife? Tuesday's reading : Isaiah 61 Reflection Questions: This passage is a prophecy about Jesus. What does Jesus want to do for people according to this passage? Read verses 4-9 carefully. What are some practical outcomes of being God's people? How could you experience some of those outcomes in your life right now? Wednesday's reading: Proverbs 29 Reflection Questions: Proverbs 29 contains 14 verses that contrast foolish and evil people with the righteous and wise. Which of these contrasts are most relevant to you in your season of life? How could you personally use the guidance in these verses to bring more righteousness and wisdom into your family or community? Thursday's reading: John 3 Reflection Questions: Mark the word "but" in this passage, or make note of the verses containing the word on a separate piece of paper. What contrasts is Jesus describing between those who believe in Him and those who do not? How do these contrasts relate to what you learned by reading Psalm 14 and 15? Friday's reading: Ephesians 5:1-21 Reflection Questions: In this passage, Paul gives a checklist of characteristics that every Christ-follower should be developing. Identify each character quality and it's contrasting negative quality. Take some time to pray over areas that you would like God to help you work on. Weekend reading: Psalm 26 Reflection Questions: Read through this psalm and evaluate how your attitude toward God aligns with the psalmist's description of a blameless life. What are some areas that need work in your life? Where are you doing well? Read through the psalm again as a prayer of commitment to walking with God faithfully.

What do these Psalms teach us about suffering? Stumbling stone:  these brass plaques are embedded in German sidewalks as a remembrance of Jewish people who were persecuted in the Holocaust. As I am writing this week’s meditation on Psalms 10 through 12, the news coverage on TV and on X.com is centered around the tragic deaths of the Bibas family, whose bodies were paraded back to their homeland by children singing “death to Israelis.” Another story circulating—but almost exclusively in Christian media—is the beheading of 70 Christians (including women, children, and elderly) by terrorists who had held them captive in a church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Such horrific suffering abounds in the world today. As a young woman, I would read the imprecatory psalms and feel like they were describing a sentiment left over from a less civilized era. Surely the world had outgrown such barbarism! But the wisdom that comes with age and experience has informed my viewpoint: We need to be praying these psalms over our families and our world because evil is real. Do you notice the burning question David asks in Psalm 10:1? Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? (NIV) This verse goes straight to the age-old question of how a good God can allow evil. I am hardly capable of addressing that definitively, even if you were gracious enough to let me try to do that in this short meditation. But one lens through which to view that question stands out to me in light of this week’s readings: God’s grace. If we truly want evil to be judged and dispensed with, what are we really asking for? Do we want judgement for ourselves given our own failings? Do we want judgement for those we love? Possilby some of us empty nesters have children who are straying from the Lord. Do we want God to "rain snares, fire and brimstone and burning wind" upon our children (Psalm 11:6)? Or could it be that we just have a short list of people we have hand-picked for judgement while we give those we love a pass? As I ponder this question, I can see where the patience of God is a blessing. While God waits, there is time for repentance for all who share this world with us, but especially for those we know and love. But God's patience offers yet another benefit. While God waits, we can act. How can we ask God for justice if we are not willing to be the answer to another's plea for help? This week, we will read about Moses. When his people cried out for help from God, Moses was the answer God sent. Is God sending you, too? The good you can do with your life experiences and wisdom is more than you can imagine. You can be the touch of God's grace in your community, a visible representation of God's love in a sick and suffering world. Let's not be afraid to ask God, "O Lord, do You see?" But at the same time, let's pray, "O Lord, open my eyes to the needs all around me." Readings and Reflection Questions Monday's reading : Psalm 10, Psalm 11 , and Psalm 12 Reflection Questions: Psalm 10:17 says that God will strengthen the hearts of the humble. How has God strengthened you through suffering? How do you take refuge in God when you experience oppression? Psalm 13 mentions the words of the Lord; how has He kept His promises to you? Tuesday's reading : Exodus 3:1-4:17 Reflection Questions: This rather long passage describes the call of Moses to act on God's behalf. What strikes you about Moses's response? Is God asking you to do something that seems to difficult for you? How does God's response to Moses in Exodus 4:11-12 suggest how God might respond to your fears? Wednesday's reading: Ecclesiastes 4 Reflection Questions: Ecclesiastes was written by David's son Solomon as an argument for the futility of life apart from a relationship with God. This fourth chapter discusses how the human desire for achievement when selfishly focused leads to injustice and meaninglessness. Take a moment to evaluate if the things you are working on are selfishly focused and lead to injustice or meaninglessness. How could you focus your energies on more significant and life-changing results? How could you focus on bringing more glory to God? Thursday's reading: Matthew 10 Reflection Questions: What were Jesus's instructions to His disciples when He sent them out? What were they to expect on their journey? In verse 28, Jesus suggests that death is not the worst thing that can happen to us. What is worse than death? How might verse 39 change your midlife focus? Friday's reading: R omans 8 Reflection Questions: What does it mean to live in the spirit rather than the flesh? Verses 18-23 discusses the condition of all of creation because of the burden of sin and evil. What is creation experiencing now, and what will it experience when it is finally free from sin? What does this chapter tell you about the difference Jesus makes in our lives if we "love God and are called according to His purpose" (vs. 28)? Weekend reading: Revelation 6 Reflection Questions: Read through this passage and then return to verse 10. What is the question the martyrs ask God? What is God's response in verse 11? Read Revelation 7:9-12. Do you think God delayed judgement to allow more people to turn to Him? How does this change your viewpoint on God's reluctance to bring judgement on the world? What could you do personally to make a difference while God continues to give people time to repent?

What Psalm 8 has to teach us about rediscovering the beauty of creation Remember being a child when almost everything felt awesome ? A rock, a pine cone, or a bit of moss could mesmerize me for hours at just four years old. Every day was an adventure, an opportunity to explore the world God made. Then, along come the child-raising years and we are offered a fresh opportunity to rekindle our wonder. They remind us to see the world through untainted eyes. It’s a blessing to recover that sense of awe alongside them. But as our children grow into adults and we begin the empty nest years, that wonder often fades away. Responsibilities weigh us down, and we become entrenched in daily routines. Now that my children are grown, I sometimes xperience a wonder deficit. My daughter even introduced me to the current term: Meh: mediocre; lackluster; uninspiring The older I get, the easier it becomes to slip into thinking that life is just, well, meh. I often forget to enjoy the wonders of God’s creation around me. I plod through my day without pausing to appreciate the beauty that God places in my path. I’m certain that isn’t the way God intended us to live. Psalm 8 emphasizes our relationship with God and how we should perceive the life He has gifted us: "Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" -Psalm 8:1 (NIV) Embracing the Beauty of Creation Psalm 8 continues on to articulate the wonders of creation. It talks about everything from starry skies to ocean depths, with human beings highlighted as the pinnacle of God’s creative efforts. Reading this Psalm not only rekindles my sense of wonder; it also leads me to ponder: How can I rebuild my sense of wonder in all that God has made and all that God has done for me? This question resonates with many mid-lifers, including myself. In Wednesday's reading, we will witness how even the wisest man, Solomon, lost his sense of awe and succumbed to cynicism. However, there's hope! We can learn and grow wiser from his experience. As you journey through the scriptures this week, take time to explore the reflection questions. And then, dedicate a few moments each day for a treasure hunt of the wonders mentioned in Psalm 8: Soak up some sunshine on your face - verse 1 Engage with little children and see the world through their eyes - verse 2 Look up at the stars during the night - verse 3 Reflect on God's love for you - verse 4 Admire artwork that showcases the creative talents He has gifted to humanity - verse 5 Consider the ways humans care for creation - verse 6 Teach your dog a new trick and enjoy the interaction - verse 7 Observe birds in trees or feed ducks in a pond - verse 8 Acknowledge God's majesty in creation and thank Him for specific things you see - verse 9 Let's restore our sense of wonder this week as we revel in the amazing gifts of God's creation! Readings and Reflection Questions Monday's Reading: Psalm 8 Reflection Questions: What aspects of nature most clearly speak to you about God's glory? How can you connect with nature to inspire awe for God and His creative genius? Tuesday's Reading: Genesis 1 Reflection Questions: How does the creation account relate to Psalm 8? Why is it significant that each creation day ends with God declaring it "good"? What makes God's creation of humans "very good"? Wednesday's Reading: Ecclesiastes 1 Reflection Questions: Ecclesiastes, penned by Solomon, argues the futility of life without a relationship with God. In the first chapter, reflect on how this futility impacts enjoyment. Identify verses that resonate with your current feelings. Pray about how God may want you to address those feelings through action. Write down any insights God provides. Thursday's Reading: Matthew 21:1-17 Reflection Questions: In this passage, Jesus references Psalm 8:2. How does Matthew help clarify Psalm 8:2? In what ways did the children’s songs oppose the enemies of Jesus? What songs could you sing that honor God and uplift your spirit? (Hint: Create a playlist for a walk). Friday's Reading: Revelation 21:1-22:7 Reflection Questions: In the final book of the Bible, God continues to create an ideal environment for His people. How does this new heaven and earth differ from Genesis 1? What aspects of the new heaven and earth inspire awe? Revelation 22:3 mentions there will be no curse—how does this improve the new heaven and earth compared to our current world? Weekend Reading: Psalm 29 and Psalm 148 Reflection Questions: In Psalm 29, what does "the voice of the Lord" signify? How can it be perceived in the various situations described? Let your voice resonate with creation—read Psalm 148 outside, aloud.

What Psalm 7 has to say about spiritual warfare in midlife Meditation Skip to the readings and reflection questions Do you ever feel like evil is winning? Everywhere I look—in the news cycle, on social media, in the lives of family members and friends, and in my own heart and mind—I see a real-life, lived out conflict between good and evil. And is that evil ever strong. This is the problem David confronted in Psalm 7. He felt as though he was surrounded on every side with villainous and ungodly people who were trying to tear him to pieces. David recorded his visceral cry for justice and salvation in the first two verses of Psalm 7: O LORD my God, I take refuge in You; save me and deliver me from all my pursuers, or they will shred my soul like a lion and tear me to pieces with no one to rescue me (Psalm 7:1-2, NIV). Let me add a caveat, here. I cannot relate exactly to David's situation. When he penned Psalm 7, he was being hunted through the wilderness by King Saul and his soldiers. While we read verses 1 and 2 as metaphorical, David meant them literally. Those who pursued him would indeed drag him away and tear his soul from his body if they could catch him. Nevertheless, I understand this description figuratively as a mamma. Nothing in my life gave me a clearer perspective on the intention of evil to destroy lives than having four little ones to protect. When the children were teenagers and I was desperately trying to screen movies, TV shows, music, websites, social media, and friendships in order to guard their innocence, I felt like the proverbial lion at the gate! Now, as an empty nester mom of four adults, I am no longer on guard duty full time, but I'm no less aware of the dangers of sin to them and to my husband and myself. So I pray with David, "Save us and deliver us from all our pursuers!" Why do we need deliverance? Because sin is deadly serious business. In verses 12 through 16, David described God's justice and the awful truth that those who choose evil are choosing self-destruction. Sometimes in modern Christendom's emphasis on the love of Jesus, we overlook the catastrophic effects of evil. But we can see it all around us if we are brave enough to look honestly on the state of the world. So where is the hope in Psalm? I find two reasons to hope in David's song. First, David reminded us in verses 9 and 10 that God is for us if we cling to His righteousness. If we are in right relationship with God, He will establish us, shield us, and save us. We can pray those verses for ourselves and those we love. The second reason to hope is in David's reference to the assembled people, a subtle reminder that we are not alone in our weary battle against evil. This is a theme echoed in Psalm 9 and 10, too (in the list of suggested Bible readings this week). Let the assembled peoples gather around you, while you sit enthroned over them on high. Let the Lord judge the peoples. Vindicate me, Lord, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High. Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure— you, the righteous God who probes minds and hearts (Psalm 7:7-9, NIV) Our hope while living with the fallout of evil is strengthened by meeting in the assembly of God's people. "Let them gather!" says David because he knew there is strength in convening with those who worship the Lord. Having a community of faith makes the righteous secure! How will you combat sin and the powers of darkness this week? It's not optional--all of us will encounter both evil and good in the week ahead. But with God's people by our side and His strength to surround us, we can know that God will vindicate us and make us secure as we surrender our lives to His purposes. Daily Readings and Reflections Monday's reading : Psalm 7 Reflection Questions: Where in your community do you see the after effects of sinful choices or evil perpetrated on the innocent? How is your church or community of faith responding to that? How are you personally responding to bring healing to broken lives? Tuesday's reading : 1 Samuel 24 Reflection Questions: What this passage doesn’t tell us is that Saul went back on his promise and was soon pursuing David again, as soon as chapter 26! Do you think David would have been justified to take Saul’s life after a similar event occurs in chapter 26? Why do you think David refused to touch Saul even though it could potentially cost David his life in the future? How could this attitude apply to you when you feel as though you are being singled out for ill treatment? Wednesday's reading: Proverbs 18:1-10 Reflection Questions: Verses 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 9 describe the results of bad or immoral decisions. How do these verses align with Psalm 7? How might the name of the Lord be a strong tower for the righteous as described in verse 10? Thursday's reading: John 15:18-27 Reflection Questions: Why do you think Jesus says that if He had not come to earth and spoken to people, they would not be guilty of sin? Why do you think some people hate God? How does the Holy Spirit help us navigate the troubles we face? Friday's reading: 2 Timothy 3 :12-17 Reflection Questions: In this passage, Paul talks about the tools we have for navigating a sinful world. What is Paul’s main tool? How well are you utilizing that tool in your personal life? Weekend reading: Psalm 9 and Psalm 10 Reflection Questions: Who is the Lord for those who love Him? Make a list of all He is and does for the righteous.

What Psalm 6 says about navigating the unknowns of midlife Have you ever found yourself stuck in a holding pattern? Whether it’s waiting for medical test results, navigating a life transition, or simply awaiting a response from a child, living in uncertainty can be stressful. We never quite know how long the wait will be. This week’s Psalm highlights David’s experience of waiting as he asks God, “How long, O Lord?” If this question resonates with you, you’ll find encouragement in this week’s readings. The smartphone has transformed how we experience waiting. How did we survive without them in waiting rooms? How did we manage to wait our turn in the Costco checkout line? Everywhere I go, I notice people handling waiting through technology. Even brief waits, like at a red light, lead many to pull out their phones—myself included! We no longer have to endure waiting; we can engage with our handheld gateways to the world. Understanding the Challenge of Waiting I can’t help but think that our limited experience with short waits has left us unprepared for longer periods of waiting in life. We’re not used to sitting in uncertainty. We struggle to sort through our thoughts and manage the anxiety of the unknown. We often rush to cry, “How long, O Lord?” before fully processing what we feel. All we want is for it to be over. Waiting as a Spiritual Discipline The reality is that waiting is a spiritual discipline—a strength God invites His children to develop. David exemplifies this in Psalm 6. He prays and expresses confidence that his prayers are heard. He simply has to trust that God will answer and shame those who claim God has abandoned him (verse 10). Is this our mindset too? The spiritual discipline of waiting is an active application of faith in God’s wisdom. It involves trusting His goodness during life’s uncertainties, leading to peace of mind and heart as we wait for His timing. This week, we'll explore stories of individuals who waited and how God moved powerfully in their lives during those times. As you read, reflect on your own experiences. Recall moments when God asked you to wait for answers. How has He been faithful? How has He worked amid the unknown? My personal experiences in waiting remind me that God operates in ways I do not comprehend and cannot foresee. However, as I surrender my uncertainties to Him, I am entrusting them to the One who holds all the answers and is always faithful to love and care for me. Daily Readings and Reflections: Monday's Reading: Psalm 6    What circumstances in your life prompt you to cry, “How long, O Lord?” What encouragement do you find in verses 8-10? Tuesday's Reading: Genesis 39:20-41:41    How long did Joseph wait in prison? How did he spend his time there? What actions can you take while you wait that demonstrate your faith in God's timing? Wednesday's Reading: Hebrews 11:1-13    How does the author define "faith" in verse 1? According to verse 13, did the faithful heroes of this chapter experience everything promised to them before they died? Where did they find full understanding and fulfillment of God’s promises? How might this impact your perspective on waiting for God? Thursday's Reading: John 11    In this passage, why does Jesus postpone His visit to His friend Lazarus? Was He aware of the outcomes of His decision to delay? What conclusion do Mary and Martha reach regarding Jesus' timing? How would the story be different if Jesus arrived while Lazarus was still alive? Friday's Reading: 2 Peter 3    This passage discusses Christ's promised return when He makes all things new. How long has it been since these words were written? (Hint: check the background of 2 Peter at this link .) What do verses 8-9 reveal about God's timing? What is the purpose of delay? How should we respond to delay according to verses 14 and 15? Weekend Reading: Psalm 13  and Psalm 30    In what ways has God shown His goodness even during times of waiting? Make a list. In Psalm 30, David remembers times when God delivered him from trouble. How has God brought you through tough situations in the past? Write a prayer of thanksgiving for God's goodness throughout your life.

What Psalm 5 teaches us about praying for God's protection of our children and grandchildren If you are a parent of young adult children and you are worried about the proliferation of really bad life choices available to your kids in today's culture, this is for you! Psalm 5 gives us a blueprint for praying for the spiritual protection of our children and grandchildren daily. Let's dig in! But before you read any further, take a moment to examine Psalm 5. I'll wait while you get your Bible--it's a quick read! It's easy to relate to the first three verses, but moving into verse four, did you begin to feel uncomfortable with David's description of God's attitude toward evil people? Verses nine and ten are even more disturbing. They explicitly call for God's judgement. Does that make you squirm a bit? It did me. Are you the defendant? Most likely, many of us struggle to reconcile the condemnation of wrongdoers in Pslam 5 and similar psalms with our own experience of God's mercy, forgiveness and love. In fact, C. S. Lewis suggests that our viewpoint as sinners who have the assurance of Christ's forgiveness is exactly what makes these types of psalms difficult to identify with. According to Lewis, when we read a psalm calling for judgement, we see ourselves as the defendant in a court of law with God as the supreme judge. Of course, we can't imagine asking with David, "Declare them guilty, O God!" (Psalm 5:10, NIV). We crave God's grace and forgiveness for ourselves and for those we love as well. The reader as a plaintiff But this is not how the ancient Israelites would have read this psalm, nor how David intended it. Lewis suggests that we should instead view ourselves as the plaintiffs in a civil court. Imagine this: You are a retired, widowed school teacher whose sole retirement savings was stolen by a corrupt investor and now you are suing to get back what is rightfully yours. You can't live without that money, and you are asking the judge to rectify an egregious injustice. From that viewpoint, it's much easier to say with David: Make them pay, God; Have them fall by their own schemes! Scatter them in the multitude of their wrongdoings, For they are rebellious against You. (Psalm 5:10, NASB) Laying out your case With that scenario in mind, read Psalm 5 again, and picture yourself pleading to the God of the universe against those who would lead your children or grandchildren astray. Suddenly the harsh nature of some of the verses in Psalm 5 makes sense! We rightly ask God to destroy those who would lie to our children (vs. 5) and to keep them far away from us and our loved ones. This week, as you explore the idea of God's justice and how we might pray for the protection of our children, grandchildren, and all those we love, try praying Psalm 5. Picture each face as you read the words of Psalm 5 over their lives and plead with God as the righteous judge to keep evil far from each one. Monday's reading :    Psalm 5 Reflection Questions: Verses 1-3 express David's commitment to daily entrust his life to God's care. How committed are you to daily devotional practices? To praying for your adult children and other loved ones? Tuesday's reading :    Proverbs 6:12-19 Reflection Questions: We are comfortable with the idea of God as perfect love, but these verses describe what God hates. In what ways does this make you uncomfortable? Think for a moment about the innocent victims of evil in this world. Does that help you relate more to these verses' description of God's sense of justice? Are there some ways in which you think God would have you stand up for the plight of the innocent? Wednesday's reading:     II Kings 18:1-19:37 Reflection Questions: This is a long passage, but it illustrates the effectiveness of prayer against evil. As you read through it, take note of the conflict between good and evil. What actions turned the tide of evil and led to victory for God's people? Thursday's reading:      Isaiah 61   Reflection Questions: Isaiah 61 describes the results of God's holiness and justice worked out in the lives of His people in the future. What does this future look like? Make a list of its attributes. What part does rightousness and justice play in shaping this vision of the future? Friday's reading:     Luke 18:1-8 Reflection Questions: In this parable Jesus shared with his disciples, who is Jesus comparing to the unjust judge? What point is He making about God's justice? How does this parable encourage you in your prayer life? Weekend reading:      Romans 8:31-39 Reflection Questions: Paul wrote these verses to encourage us in those times when we face unfair treatment or difficult situations. How does the love of Christ encourage us in those times when we are the recipients of injustice and hardship? Make a list of all the things which cannot separate us from the love of God. How might this list be an encouragement while we wait for God's justice? Sources Lewis, C. S. (2025). Reflections on the Psalms. (Kindle). Retrieved from Amazon.com .

What Psalm 4 teaches us about God's provision of rest in midlife Jesus says in Matthew, "Come to Me; all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (11:28, NIV). But for many of us in the midlife season, the idea of actual restful sleep seems like an impossible dream. . . According to the National Sleep Foundation, about 67% of middle-aged women experience sleep disturbances and difficulty sleeping. Whether it's hot flashes, night sweats, bladder issues or just stress, most of us aren't regularly getting a great night's sleep. Interestingly, a 2020 study of the effectiveness of prescription sleep medicine for middle-aged women showed no improvement in sleep quality after two years of usage, indicating that the medicine is likely ineffective for us longterm. If sleep medicines won't help, where can we turn? With any health problem, a visit with a caring doctor is a great place to start in order to rule out other health issues. The internet is also full of great ideas for improving sleep quality. It is healthy to work on our " sleep hygiene " practices, but what if some of the problem is spiritual as well as physical or mental? A spiritual prescription God's word is so pratical that it even speaks to our sleep quality! Our Psalm of the week, Psalm 4, was likely written when David was running for his life, chased from his palace and throne by his own son Absolom (long story, but you can read it in II Samuel 13-19). Hiding out in the wildernss with a small band of attendants, David pens this song as a reminder to himself and his loyal followers that God is trustworthy even in uncertain circumstances. David praises God for putting joy in his heart even though it looks like he has lost everything, and he ends with this declaration: "In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety" (vs. 4, NASB). What a declaration of confidence in God! David knows that God is in control and nothing is gained by worry and sleeplessness, so he releases his anxieties to God and lays down to rest. Hearing the voice of Jesus I know I can learn from David's example. There is nothing to be accomplished by staying up late and ruminating on my troubles, but there is much refreshment to be had from releasing my troubles to God and trusting Him to take the night watch! One way husband Jack and I have been doing this lately is by reading a passage from the gospels right before we go to sleep. There is something powerful and reassuring in hearing the words of Jesus as we drift off. Maybe that's what Peter was thinking about when he was sleeping in an uncomfortable position (we will read about that incredible night on Wednesday) in Acts 12. Did he drift off to sleep remembering Jesus saying, " I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NIV)? Maybe so. He certainly slept soundly. And that is the goal for each of us this week: to study the Word of God and find the comfort we need to lie down in peace and sleep, no matter our circumstances. My prayer is that after this week's study, we can have more confidence that God will watch over us and those we love while we get some rest. Feel free to download and use this image as a reminder of God's provision of rest in midlife Daily Readings and Reflections Monday's Reading :    Psalm 4 Reflection Questions: Think about verse 4. What troubles your thoughts at night? What truths could you meditate on that would turn your thoughts from worry and stress to trust? Tuesday's Reading :    Mark 4:35-41 Reflection Questions: What kind of day would you have to have in order to sleep as soundly as Jesus did through such a fierce storm? Why might Jesus have been able to sleep so soundly? How might you aquire the same attitude of peace and security? Wednesday's Reading:    Acts 12:1-11 Reflection Questions: The night before Herod intended to execute him, Peter slept soundly though chained between two guards. If you were in the same situation, what would your sleep quality be like? Why might Peter have been able to sleep in peace (see Psalm 4:8)? Thursday's Reading:      Isaiah 40:21-31 Reflection Questions: What is the primary question being asked by God in verses 21-28? How does God's declaration of His power in verses 21-28 increase your faith in His promise of renewed strength in verses 29-31? Friday's Reading:     Philippians 4:4-9 Reflection Questions: What commands did Paul include in these verses? Make a quick list. What are the outcomes of obeying these commands? How might the principles in these verses be worked into a sustainable bedtime routine? Weekend Reading:     Psalm 121 Reflection Questions: Make a list of all the things the Lord has promised to do for you in this Psalm. Can you do any of those things for yourself? Write a prayer thanking God for His faithful love for you. Sources Solomon DH, Ruppert K, Habel LA , et al. Prescription medications for sleep disturbances among midlife women during 2 years of follow-up: a SWAN retrospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2021;11:e045074. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045074 12 Healthy Sleep Hygiene Tips https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-hygiene

What Psalms 2 and 3 teach us about courage and purpose in midlife Is midlife a time to be bold or to fade away? Society often overlooks the value of middle-aged women, but God never does! He wants us to stay strong in this season. This week, we will explore the power of God in our lives and how He equips us to speak truth and hope into our world. When I was a child, my dad took me climbing on Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, Oregon. We started at low tide and picked our way carefully around deep tidal pools and over slippery boulders to the far side of the 235 foot tall rock formation. Once there, we took shelter in a cleft just above the reach of the waves and watched as the tide began to roll in, beating against the rocks beneath our feet. We didn't stay long--the ledge on which we stood would soon be submerged by each incoming wave. Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, Oregon When I read in Psalm 2 "Why do the nations rage . . ." my mind sees those waves crashing incessantly against the immovable rock. The waves may try to dislodge the rock, but they "plot in vain." Haystack Rock still stands as it has stood for years in the relentless Pacific Ocean surf. The Solid Rock No wonder Jesus tells us to build our lives on the Solid Rock! God's character and Word do not change with the shifting tides of human opinion. He alone is sovereign and He alone is mighty to save us. As we will read this week, God's children will find God to be faithful in the most difficult of circumstances, but especially when His children boldly take a stand for God's truth. Live boldly! What might taking a bold stand look like in your midlife season? Could you mentor, teach, encourage? Take on a leadership role in your community? It sure is tempting to avoid ruffling feathers, especially when you are a woman of a certain age (ahem)! But our seasoned midlife voices sharing God's wisdom might be just what our families and communities need. Those we love need to hear truth from our lips and see it lived out in our lives so that they will have confidence to follow God boldly themselves. Let's explore this week what it means to trust in God and proclaim Him boldly even when the tides of culture rage against us! I am confident that God will show Himself to be our shield, our glory and the One who lifts our heads above the waves. Feel free to download this image and use it as a reminder to stand boldly in Christ in midlife! Daily Readings and Reflections: Monday's Reading :    Psalm 2  and Psalm 3 Reflection Questions: What evidence of anger and rejection against God do you see around you? How might God's response to evil increase your boldness in proclaiming God's Word in your family and community? Tuesday's Reading :    Daniel 3 Reflection Questions: How did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego view the consequences of their stance for God? How do you view the consequences of being bold for God? Wednesday's Reading:    Acts 4 Reflection Questions: Who needs to hear you speak God's truth with boldness right now? Consider the prayer for boldness the church prayed in verses 24-31. Write out a prayer like theirs asking God for the courage to speak with truth and love. Thursday's Reading:     Proverbs 12:1-7 Reflection Questions: According to the verses in Proverbs 12, what is the general outcome for righteous people in comparison to evil people? How have you specifically seen seen these truths play out in your own life? How could you use those experiences to enourage the people in your life? Friday's Reading:     Ephesians 6:10-20 Reflection Questions: We are told to put on the full armor of God so that we can stand firm, but who or what are we standing firm against? What personal spiritual practices help you put on the armor of God so that you are able to stand firm? Weekend Reading:     Psalm 57 Reflection Questions: Being bold is not an easy task. How do the first three verses of Psalm 57 offer you personal reassurance of the love and presence of God? What is God calling you to do in this season of life that will require supernatural boldness rooted in the trustworthiness of God?

What Psalm 1 teaches us about receiving God's blessing in the midlife season. "Be blessed!" Has someone bestowed that wish on you in midlife? Maybe you have expressed it to friends and family members, too. Being blessed is a good thing! We want it for ourselves, for our husbands, children, grandchildren, parents and friends. As we start this devotional journey together, let's start by exploring through the lens of Psalm 1 what we are asking for when we seek the blessing of God. Blessed is a familiar word in our culture. We use it as a way to say a friendly good bye or to bestow a desire for God's divine intervention in the life of a hurting friend. We use it as an exclamation--"bless your heart!"--both sincerely and slightly sarcastically. It can even be used as home decor to offer a visible reminder to be thankful. These popular uses of blessed speak to an appreciation for all the good things that God has bestowed on us. Counting our blessings is a life-affirming practice. Even non-religious people utilize gratitude journals as a means of focusing on the positives. However, the biblical use of blessed takes us beyond a positive mental attitude and speaks to a way of life. In this week's Psalm, the writer tells us what a blessed person doesn't do: she doesn't steep herself in an irreverent culture that opposes God. Then we learn what the blessed person does do: she steeps herself in God's word. The results of blessedness As we will see in this week's readings, the results go beyond a positive mental outlook and an attitude of gratitude. God's word acknowledges the gritty and grim parts of our lives as well as the happy ones, and shows how even in the worst of times we can still consider ourselves blessed. While you read through this week's scripture passages, consider how the words might apply to this season of life. Midlife can be a challenging season because we lose some control over what happens in our families. Our parents have new needs that demand our attention, our children are forging their own lives and making their own decisions, and our own lives are changing as we meet the demands of aging. If those changes collide with our desires and expectations, how do we maintain our status as blessed ? The readings this week will remind us to anchor ourselves in God's word and our relationship with Him. When our roots go deep, we can weather the storms and droughts of life. Stressed . . . and blessed! I don't know about you, but I'm thankful that God's word explains that even when I am stressed, I am still blessed. Even when the storms and winds shake me about, I am still God's child and His love and blessing rest upon me as I anchor my soul in Him. Happy reading and meditating this week, dear friend! May you be truly blessed in 2025 as you rest your soul in the word of God and His love for you! Feel free to download and use this image as a reminder of the fruitfulness that comes from God's blessing! Daily Readings and Reflections: Monday's Reading:  Psalm 1 What could fruitfulness in my season of life look like in 2025? What would I like to see God do in and through my life this year? (Psalm 1:3) Tuesday's Reading: Exodus 20:1-21 The people of Israel responded with fear at the presence of God as He gave the law to Moses. What is my response to the presence of God and to His desire for me to live a holy life steeped in His word? Wednesday's Reading: Proverbs 3:13-26 This passage describes the benefits of searching out and applying God's wisdom to life. What are some practical methods I could use to seek wisdom for life this year? What sources of Godly wisdom are available to me that I could incorporate into my daily practice or routine? Thursday's Reading:   Jeremiah 17:5-8 Considering the metaphor of the bush and the tree found in Jeremiah 17, how would I describe myself? What is the condition of my "root system": where do I go for spiritual and mental nourishment? What sources of encouragement could I tap into more often to help me grow in my faith? Friday's Reading: Matthew 5:1-12 Which of Jesus's categories of "blessed" do I fall into? How have I seen God work in my life to bring about the blessing Jesus promises me in these verses? Weekend Reading: James 1:1-17 What is one way my spiritual walk has been strengthened through experiencing life's challenges? What is one way my heart has been encouraged through receiving God's good and perfect gifts? Feel free to reflect on more than one for each question.

What Psalm 52 teaches us about being relevant in midlife "Invisible Woman Syndrome." You may not have heard the term, but you most likely have experienced it. Defined as a feeling of being overlooked and unimportant in American society, invisible woman syndrome is what we experience when our adult children don't call, when stores don't carry clothes to fit our menopausal bodies, or when we keep our mouths shut because we worry about being labeled a "Karen." It's a fear that we have outlived our usefulness and have become unremarkable in our families, our communities, or our career fields. We fear we have become irrelevant . What a terrible label to attach to ourselves! Even if our culture--incorrectly--wants to place that epithet on you, don't accept it! God's Word has something very different to say to us about who and what is actually important. Friend, if we are following God and seeking His kingdom first, we are crucial to God's purposes on earth, especially in our midlife years. God's Word on relevance David grappled with this issue in Psalm 52, written when an associate of Saul betrayed David and the priest Ahimelech after Ahimelech had helped David escape from Saul. This associate had seen Ahimelech and David meet, and he convinced Saul to allow him to execute 85 priests in retaliation for Ahimelech's disloyalty. Can you imagine how David felt when this news reached him? He must have been tempted to give up on the promise of God that he would be king one day. He had to have considered turning himself in or leaving the country and relinquishing his God-given place in the land of Israel. He might have reasoned that it would have been better for him and everyone around him to accept a life of irrelevance rather than royalty. But David didn't give in. Instead, he put his faith in God and followed God's leading because David was committed to God's calling and design for his life. He was not meant to fade into obsurity. No, David believed instead that everything outside of the will of God was to be regarded as meaningless. Irrelevance personified How does David describe the outcome for those who wanted to hinder God's plan? Surely God will bring you down to everlasting ruin: He will snatch you up and pluck you from your tent; he will uproot you from the land of the living. The righteous will see and fear; they will laugh at you, saying, “Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others!” Psalm 52:5-7, NIV David is telling us that those who work for their own ends rather than for God's purposes are the people who risk becoming irrelevant, or worse. A stern warning, for sure, but also an incredible encouragement and a clear choice for us in midlife: Do you want to be relevant in your circle of influence? Join God in what He is doing and further His kingdom! Share the gospel, make disciples, encourage the saints, give with your whole heart. Then you can say with David, But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever. For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good. Psalm 52:8-9, NIV At any age, we can be that green olive tree: flourishing, fruitful, and vital to God's kingdom purposes. Living relevantly Psalm 52:8-9 would be a great passage to put on your bathroom mirror, friend! Every day, let's remember that we are never too old to be part of God's good work. Our midlife days are opportunities to serve Him with greater freedom than ever before. We are not invisible, we are essential! Find out where God wants you to engage, always remember: We are never irrelevant when our lives are surrendered to God's good purpose. Feel free to download and use this image as a reminder of your relevance to God and His people! Daily Readings and Reflections: Monday’s Reading: Psalm 52 Reflect on a time when you felt overlooked or undervalued. How can trusting in God’s “unfailing love” (v. 8) shift your perspective on your worth? What does it mean to you to be “like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God” (v. 8)? What could that look like in your life right now? Tuesday’s Reading: Psalm 53 Psalm 53:1 describes the fool who says, “There is no God.” What is God's view of people who reject Him in verses 2 and 3? How might you as a midlife woman encourage the people around you to take a bold stand for belief in God despite the cultural pressures? Wednesday’s Reading: Psalm 54 In verse 4, David declares, “Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.” How can you rely on God’s sustaining power to overcome moments of feeling invisible in your daily life? What truth might you preach to yourself in those moments from Psalm 54? Thursday’s Reading:   Psalm 55 In Psalm 55, David laments a close friend’s betrayal. How have changes in relationships made you feel less relevant in midlife? How does David address the abandonment he is experiencing in verses 16-19 and 22-24? Spend a few minutes talking to God about your burden and ask Him to make you unshakeable. Friday’s Reading: Psalm 56 David says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you” (v. 3). Write down the fears you have about aging or irrelevance in midlife. What verses in Psalm 56 encourage and strengthen you in the face of those fears? Write them down underneath the list of fears and pray those scriptures out loud. Weekend Reading:   Psalm 57 In verse 7, David declares, “My heart, O God, is steadfast.” What seems to draw you away from staying steadfast in your faith during midlife changes and challenges? Spend a few moments refocusing your heart on God's calling on your own life. Ask Him to help you see His glory rather than your challenges. Want to read more Bible verses about knowing Jesus Christ as Savior? Here's a good place to start: https://www.gotquestions.org/Romans-road-salvation.html

Reflections on Psalm 51 and how God wants to renew our hearts in midlife Have you noticed how many advertisements there are for health remedies? Nutritional supplement ads fill my Facebook timeline and interrupt my YouTube videos, each one expertly targeting my insecurities. My vitamin wish list is getting longer by the minute! Aging doesn't just affect our physical health, however. It also impacts our soul's health. At midlife, we often become more aware of soul health as we have more time to reflect on how we have lived our lives and how we want to finish. How is your soul health, friend? Is your heart weighed down and discouraged today? David's psalm of confession and rededication offers us a remedy for weary hearts. Penned after his midlife affair with Bathsheba and his murder of her husband, David's song shows us how to be real with God about sin, disappointment, and despair. To be clear, I'm not equating a sin like David's with being tired and discouraged in midlife. But let's be honest: All the things we are struggling with in midlife are the results of sin, whether it is our sin, another's sin, or just the general brokenness of the world around us. We wrestle with evil every day of our lives . . . David's prayer shows us how to stay fresh in the fight. Heart exam David begins with an honest assessment of his own failings: For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Psalm 51:3, NIV Please hear me, midlife mom: David is not taking responsibility for other people's decisions. He's only confessing his. Much of our midlife mom worry can revolve around the choices our adult children make, but that's not what David is assessing here. In David's heart exam, he is identifying the ways his own heart has drifted from the holy and righteous standard God has given to His people: Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. Psalm 51:4, NIV If your heart is discouraged, my friend, start with a thorough heart exam. Be honest with God, and bring your own failings before him with humbleness so He can begin the treatment. Heart surgery After David and God have diagnosed the heart problem, David starts the healing process. I am fascinated by the verbs David uses in asking God to treat his heart condition: wash me, cleanse me, purify me, blot out my iniquity, deliver me from guilt David clearly wants absolution, a fresh start with God. But David's requests go beyond treatment for his own heart. He also asks God to undergo heart treatment Himself: Hide Your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Psalm 51:9, NIV David wants such a drastic procedure performed upon his sin that God will forget what David has done. That's radical surgery when even the heart of God goes under the knife. Yet Hebrews chapter 8 assures us that the new covenant written in the blood of Jesus promises us exactly that: For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more. Hebrews 8:12, NIV If God does not remember our failings, why should we go through life dragging them behind us? Friend, we need to ask God for this level of liberation from everything that weighs us down in midlife. If God promises to take the burden of sin off our shoulders and remember it no more, just imagine what He can do with our midlife disappointment and discouragement! Ask God to remove those, too, and to give you the ability to live in freedom. Heart restoration Finally, David asks God to rejuvenate his heart: Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Psalm 51:12, NIV This final request of David gets to the heart of our midlife weariness: why are we asking God to heal our hearts in the first place? Is it so we can enjoy life or pursue our personal interests or carve out our little corner of inner peace? This wasn't David's motivation at all. He wanted to use his heart restoration to share the goodness of God with those around him, to bear witness to God's saving power, and to proclaim God's tender mercy toward all who seek Him. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you. O Lord, open my lips and my mouth will declare your praise. Psalm 51:13 & 15, NIV God does not renew our hearts in midlife just so we can enjoy life a little bit more. I'm not saying we shouldn't care for our bodies, minds, and souls, but midlife heart health is not an end in itself. By God's grace, we still have a job to do! We have a midlife mission, the same one that David had when he penned the words of Psalm 51 after his own midlife crisis. Just as He did for David, God offers renewal of soul and of purpose for everyone who comes to Him for heart healing. Daily Readings and Reflections: Monday’s Reading: Psalm 51 What personal failures, disappointments, or regrets are weighing you down in midlife? Based on this psalm, what steps do you need to take to release them to God? Tuesday’s Reading: Joel 2:12-13 What does it look like for you to turn to God “with all your heart” in this stage of life, especially regarding specific sins or regrets? How does God’s compassionate nature encourage you to approach Him with honesty rather than fear? Wednesday’s Reading: 1 Kings 19:1- 9 Where in your life are you tempted to feel, like Elijah, that you can't go on? How could you, as the angel did for Elijah, care for your physical needs when you are facing extreme stress? What might you need to do to restore your soul's strength so that you can continue the midlife journey? Thursday’s Reading:   Jonah 2:1-3:5 Jonah made his heart right before God while still in the belly of the fish. If you are going through a trial right now, have you examined your own heart to see where you might need to make things right with God? Where in your life have you resisted God’s call, and how might He be offering you a “second chance” in midlife to pursue a meaningful mission of service for Him? Friday’s Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-1 5 What “jars of clay” moments in your midlife journey are making you feel fragile or discouraged? How might God be using them to display His power through you to the people around you? Weekend Reading:   Psalm 130 How might waiting on God’s unfailing love, as the psalmist does in this passage, help you find strength and purpose in midlife? Want to read more Bible verses about knowing Jesus Christ as Savior? Here's a good place to start: https://www.gotquestions.org/Romans-road-salvation.html

Psalm 32 encourages us that fruitfulness is faithfulness! My daughter likes to teach me new words so I can sound hip. Even more importantly, she lets me know when meanings change so that I don’t accidentally say something really weird to someone younger than myself—very helpful! One of the more interesting terms she taught me a couple years ago was quiet quitting . Quiet quitting is the practice of only giving the bare minimum at work—no volunteering for overtime, no extra efforts, no feedback on how to improve efficiency. A quiet quitter just shows up on time, leaves on time, does the basics, and above all, does not give one ounce of effort that is not required of them. My daughter said that nearly a whole generation of workers was practicing this work ethic because of their disillusionment with their salary package and the demands placed on them by management. Statistically, about 59% of workers around the world classify themselves as quiet quitters, which is a surprising amount! The prevalence of this ethic in the workplace makes me wonder . . . are Christians quiet quitting, too? And is this a problem for those of us in midlife? There are a some interesting facts on this topic: church attendance continues to fall for Generation X, and church volunteerism is also at a low for us. In addition, we may be experiencing the same struggles that quiet quitting workers blame on their decision to check out: we are burnt out, under-appreciated, unrecognized for our contributions, and our expectations are going unfulfilled. Parallels aside, David provides us with a clear list of symptoms in Psalm 32 that indicate a loss of fervor in our Christian walk. Here’s a quick description of each one: Spiritual negligence (verse 2): Not fully living out the lifestyle of a dedicated Christian The word for deceit at the end of the verse means not giving our best efforts, not being honest about our efforts, and not giving due diligence. Physical exhaustion (verses 3 and 4): Lack of energy for doing what God has called us to do David gives a clear description of the physical symptoms of an apathetic spiritual life that lead to ineffectiveness in our service to God and others. Resisting God’s leading (verse 9): Not wanting to fulfill the purpose God has for us right now and looking for a way out David counsels the reader not to be like a donkey or horse that must be forced to go where the rider wants to go. God wants our willing obedience, not our foot-dragging reluctance! Complaints about life (verse 10): A life lived without a passion for God will be filled with disappointments David reminds us that those who are in conflict with God will amass a long list of difficulties, while the faithful will focus on God’s love and provision. As I read through Psalm 32 and evaluated my own spiritual symptoms, I could identify areas of my spiritual walk where I am doing just enough to get by in midlife. It’s so tempting to rest on the spiritual development we experienced in years past and think we can just coast along in our later years! But the reality for me was that I was feeling some of the quiet quitting symptoms. I was in need of a cure! Of course, David offers the antidote to quiet quitting on our faith journey in midlife: Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not hide my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah Therefore let all the godly pray to You while You may be found. Psalm 32:5-6a (NASB) Our God doesn’t hold us at arms length. Even when we quiet quit our faith walk for a time, confession brings us right back into fellowship with God. All it takes is a prayer and a willingness to embrace the practices and purposes God has for us at midlife. God restores our joy and we learn the truth of this verse: . . . loving devotion surrounds him who trusts in the LORD. Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, O righteous ones; shout for joy, all you upright in heart. Psalm 32:10b-11 (NASB) My prayer for you this week is that you would be willing to take stock of your walk with God and honestly evaluate it for signs of quiet quitting. God wants more for us at midlife—His plans for us don’t grow old and we don’t age out of fruitful service for Him! But we won’t experience His best unless we are walking faithfully and giving our best efforts to continue to grow and develop in our Christian lives. I don’t know about you, but I want God’s best. I’m not ready to quit, yet! Readings and Reflection Questions Monday's reading:  Psalm 32 Read through the psalm and note the symptoms of being out of fellowship with God. Do any of the symptoms occur in your own life? If so, consider writing or saying a prayer of confession and making things right between you and God. If all is well with your spiritual walk, take a moment to list out the benefits of walking closely with God and thank Him for those blessings. Tuesday's reading: Psalm 119:17-24 The psalmist begins this section of Psalm 119 with a plea for personal revival. According to verses 17-24, what are some keys to personally experiencing spiritual revival? How important is God’s Word to our spiritual health according to the psalmist? In verse 30 the psalmist declares that he has “chosen the faithful way.” What practices does he list in verses 30-32 that prove his declaration? Wednesday's reading: Psalm 119:25-32 In this portion of Psalm 119, the psalmist makes eight requests of God. List out these requests. Which ones echo the desires of your heart? Pray and ask God to work His soul-reviving power in your life. Thursday's reading:    Galatians 6:4-10 This passage describes the principle of sowing and reaping. What is the first thing Paul encourages us to do in verse 4? Why do you think he wants each of us to examine our own work and not the work of others? Take a moment to examine your own life in light of verses 7 and 8. What are you sowing and what are you reaping? How are you sowing or how might you sow good things as Paul tells us to in verses 9 and 10? Friday's reading:   Hebrews 12:1-3 What are some of the encumbrances that keep us from faithfully following God in midlife? What are some of the sins we might be tempted by in this season? What is our motivation for setting aside those encumbrances and temptations? How does Jesus’s life and example help us to keep from growing tired and faint of heart? Weekend reading:   Philippians 3:7-16 According to Paul, what is the most important thing in life? How does Paul view every other aspect of life in comparison to this one great thing? Paul was probably around 60 years old when he wrote these verses. According to verses 12-14, what kept him motivated to keep serving God in spite of his circumstances? What is your motivation to keep on serving God in midlife?