Lynna Clark

By Lynna Clark

We love riding our motorcycle through the country. Unchartered territory! Exploration at its finest! One day we passed a huge ceramic owl in a birdbath. I wondered if we were supposed to be tricked into thinking it was real. Who would put an owl in a birdbath? Was that to scare off the other birds? Then why have a birdbath in the first place if you don’t want birds? A house down the road had the entire dwarf clan plus a gnome, snow white, and Santa thrown in for good measure. It was redneck utopia.

On another ride we passed a country church with a sign out front that said, “Be a fountain, not a drain.” Was this meant to be spiritual insight? Perhaps a reprimand to an unruly church member… Usually church signs just get on my nerves trying to be all spiritual, but this one cracked me up. So one day when one of my afore-mentioned godly daughters was griping, [notice in this story she only gets a small “g” in godly], I said to her, “Be a fountain, not a drain.” She replied with an Aretha Franklin head wag, “I’ll have you know that drains are necessary too. Without drains all kinds of stuff gets backed up!”

Had to agree.

Some guys in Nehemiah 4 were being drains, and not in a good way. There was mocking and rage involved. Have you ever been the victim of gossip and anger? Hurts doesn’t it. If only people would give you a chance to explain. Have you ever been the one making fun of a work or a plan? Have you ever given your opinion at the expense of a ministry? I am very sorry to say that I have. The results were very displeasing to the Lord. I have been a part of the naysayers in ministries past. But with great conviction I am asking the Lord to strengthen me to never take part in negative speech regarding ministry again. It takes effort. There is always a better way to do things. But why tear a wall down when you can build one up?

Hebrews 10:24 says, “Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.” I like how the King James phrases this verse. “Encourage one another while it is yet today.” Sounds more urgent. It is not an accident that the next verse says, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do…” God knows we need encouragement. And so do all the people around us. Today, “while it is yet today,” encourage someone. Refrain from negative speech. Build someone up. Take notice of something praiseworthy and point it out in front of the person you are building. Do that for your children. Say to a parent so their child can hear, “I saw Jesse being kind to his little sister today. He must be growing stronger in the Lord.” Watch their response. It’s catching.

With all that said, today’s prayer is for positive speech, and intentional building up of those around us. Encourage one another while it is yet today. And watch out for all those owls splashing around in a birdbath near you.

More Proverbs 6:16-19 Proverbs 14:1

By Lynna Clark

Could we fast forward five or so years? Let’s project ourselves into the near future and let’s suppose our country has taken a turn for the worst. Our economy did not recover and our crops have failed due to unusual weather patterns. Food is scarce and we worry about how we will feed our families. The energy crisis has escalated, causing most to be unable to afford fuel. Traveling to work, generating income and even heating our homes are very difficult. The basic necessities of life are no longer readily available.

Would we wish we had prayed for our nation more?

Speaking to a different nation, God observes a terrible time in their economy. They are being destroyed, not by war, but by famine and disease. As their defenses crumble, other nations attack them in their helplessness. In their recent history, God had poured out all manner of blessings on them, only to have them ignore Him and His call to a change of heart.

Therefore He gives this evaluation:

“But you never ask for help from the One who did all this. You never considered the One Who planned this long ago.” –Isaiah 22:11b

“But instead, you dance and play… You say, ‘Let’s feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!’”-Isaiah22:13

Are we wise enough to pray before the same is said of us?
This series was written for our church in September 2012, almost 10 years ago. So no need to read into it any current political leanings. Instead, I hope you’ll enjoy using it as a prayer “springboard” for the next thirty days. Each day we’ll have a short out-take from the book of Nehemiah, followed by a specific prayer for our churches. For if our churches are strong, our nation will follow suit. May the Lord be honored as He hears from us.
“Make the LORD of Heaven’s Armies holy in your life. He is the One you should fear. He is the One Who should make you tremble. He will keep you safe.” –Isaiah 8:13

By Lynna Clark

“He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake.” Psalm 23:3 KJV
As we left the little church on our wedding day, the organist played the sweet hymn, “Savior like a Shepherd lead us… much we need Thy tender care…”
Though we had picked the song, I had no idea how prophetic it would be. Now forty-eight years later, I have Psalm 23:3 written on a notecard to remind me everyday: He will not only lead me, but strengthen me to do His will.
I used to think my strength was limited when our children were young. But now the older I get, the more I realize how truly weak I am. Yet my soul feels renewed day by day. It’s the quiet knowing that all will be well as I draw on the Lord. He assures me that He will not only strengthen me for the task at hand, but will lead me down a path that will honor His Name. Isn’t that the goal of the heart tuned to the Savior? To point all things back to Him?
Even when I’m the weakest I’ve ever been, HE can still help me walk worthy of His calling. For this wonderful Savior of ours loves it when we lean on Him for the strength to serve. When we’re too weary to take another step, He will hold our hand.
“He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths bringing honor to His Name.” -Psalm 23:3 NLT
Oh! How sweet is that?

By Lynna Clark

Last week we rented the old John Wayne movie The Cowboys. Why you ask? What better way to celebrate 50 years together! In the year of our Lord, 1972 a very quiet guy in my high school took a chance and asked me to the movies. He had no idea that John Wayne was an icon in our home; the picture of all things tough and heroic. I guess the Lord saw to that small detail ahead of time. But even better, the next week he asked me to a Bible study. Not John Wayne… my new friend David. That night my life changed. It was the first time I understood why Jesus went to the cross. Suddenly it made sense. I could never measure up to God’s holiness, so He died in my place. OH! What a difference that single decision made. Because a quiet young man stepped waaayyy out of his comfort zone and asked a feisty girl to a homemade Bible study, at least the next 50 years were changed.
I went home and spoke to my little sisters about Christ. One trusted Him right away; the other understood a few weeks later. Fast forward to the families of us three sisters. We each married men who love the Lord, raised three kids apiece to honor Him; they in turn are raising children to love Him as well. The ones who don’t have children yet are making a difference in the lives around them. Sure we have a few prodigals in the mix, of whom I am chief. The point is not to brag on our great family. Lord knows that’s not the goal. We sure don’t want to invite the scrutiny that would bring. The moral of the story is to say, take a chance. Invite the stranger. Reach out to someone the Lord puts in your path. Who knows what ripple effect you could cause in the next fifty years.
Maybe even for eternity.

By Lynna Clark

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

“Wow Lord! This is beautiful! Where are we?”
He smiled the biggest smile. “This is your new home! I’ve been working on it for quite a while. Just added a few finishing touches I knew you’d like. What do you think of the view?”
“OH! It’s stunning. The lake sparkles like diamonds.”
“Yes. I knew you always longed for a place by the water. Your neighbor’s above ground pool didn’t really count.”
I laughed a bit too loud at that then realized He was laughing too. Suddenly I felt very humbled. “Lord, it’s so much. I never expected all this. The trees are gorgeous. And you know how much I love wildflowers. Nobody does beauty like You do. I sure wished I could be as creative as You, but I always seemed to come up lacking.”
He smiled down at me. “That creativity that lived in your heart? I put that there. I knew you would try till your dying breath to make something beautiful. But now you are truly home. One of your gifts here is strength. Strength to do all the beautiful things your heart desires. Now it’s time to live in My house.
Forever.
NO more packing, moving, wandering, or pulling weeds from the flowerbeds.” He laughed again as if we shared a secret. Apparently He knows me well. He took my hand and gazed into my eyes.
“Well daughter, how does it feel to be home?”

I fell to my knees at His feet and wished for an alabaster box to break open in worship. Instead I just wept at His goodness. He placed a warm hand of blessing on my head. A moment later He lifted me into His strong arms and circled me with a hug. “C’mon. I can’t wait till you see the inside.”
We walked hand in hand toward the house. “I like that it’s a cottage. When You said mansion, I worried that it might be a bit big and drafty.”
Again He laughed. “I didn’t think you’d want to live in opulence like the Beverly Hillbillies with the cement pond. This is more your style.”
As we stepped inside, again I was amazed. There just were no words. Sweet Jesus broke the silence and gently thumbed away the tears on my face.

“Welcome home beloved daughter. No more sorrow, or tears, or crying. Just enter into the joy of the Lord!
You are going to love it here!”

By Lynna Clark

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” -KJV

The Lord looked happily on as I discovered the banquet. All my favorites were there. Rather loudly I exclaimed, “Wowee! Look at all the food! Did you fix all this? Wait. You didn’t leave a big ol’ mess in the kitchen for me to clean up did you?”

He threw His head back and laughed. He smiled as he teased. “Maybe…”

He turned to pull out my chair beside Him at the head of the table. “Before you sit, let’s put on your robe.” He held out the most beautiful garment I’ve ever seen. As he slipped it over my old clothes I fingered the fabric. So soft and luxurious. Nervously I requested.

“If I’m gonna wear something this nice while I eat, I probably need a bib… or a raincoat.”
Again He laughed and shook His head. When I added, “This is way too nice for the likes of me,” He tipped His head and added.

“Feels like royalty doesn’t it. That’s because you were anointed to be My own daughter so many years ago when you answered My call. It’s finally time for the honor that comes with obedience.”
Quietly I took the seat beside Him. I was stunned when He held my hand and whispered part of a favorite Psalm.

“You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.”

He drew my attention to those that stood on the fringes. They cowered and I knew they were required to be there but they sure didn’t like it. Again he whispered.

“See the one in yellow? His name is Fear. He has plagued you all your life. Often he pulled you back from your purpose. But you forged on.”

He pointed to the one in blue. “He is Insecurity. How many times did you feel worthless as you struggled to serve? That came from him.”

Around the space He went, naming each of my enemies, explaining why I felt so inadequate in my lifetime. Eventually He came to the largest, most intimidating demon of all. I waited for the Lord to explain. Quietly He lifted my hand to His lips and gave it a kiss. It seemed as if He wanted to assure me that I was finally safe. He nodded his head toward the demon who appeared as dark as the deepest night.

“He is Darkness and is very powerful. Remember when you were shrouded with such a heavy cloak of despair that you could hardly breathe? That was him. I heard you ask for help. I knew you didn’t know what to pray, so I begged the Father for you. And He answered.”

With wonder, I met the Lord’s gaze. There were tears in His eyes as together we recalled those darkest times. He hugged me and added. “You came out better daughter. I love that about you. You never gave up though you wanted to. Instead you just kept asking Me for help. That’s why today your enemies are gathered here to witness your victory banquet. At my command they will be face down in the dust, never to bother you again.”

The presence of the Lord surrounded me and comforted me as never before. I didn’t know whether to clap or sing or shout. Instead I just hugged the Savior and laughed with joy. He laughed too so I dared to ask.

“Can we have dessert first?”

By Lynna Clark

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” -KJV
You’ve tumbled into a deep dark valley. It feels like death and you can’t seem to dig your way out. Fear surrounds you and grips your poor heart with something so frightening that you wonder if maybe this is the end. You try to pray. The words don’t come. So you just close your tear filled eyes and beg.
God. I need help.

A hand rests on your shoulder. It should feel comforting. But instead you feel shame. Why must you be so weak when you know the darkness is just a shadow. A life of faith has taught you this.
Yet you can’t help the weakness and fear you feel.
A solid hand reaches down to grip your own. He pulls you to your feet and into the circle of His love. “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee,” He whispers.

Together you take a step; then one more; then another until the shadows disappear and you look up to see you’ve survived the darkest time of your life. As you rest in the Savior’s comfort and marvel in His protection you realize.
Up ahead is another dark valley. A fellow traveler lies face down in the dirt. With courage you’ve never had before, you make your way down the rocky path and place a hand on their shoulder.
Then together, you walk out of the dark valley and into the light.

As you notice the familiar look of shame on your companion’s face, you share what you now know. The Shepherd’s rod and staff are not for beating His sheep. They are there for protection and comfort. Nothing can get to you when He is near.
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid. For You are close beside me. Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.” -NLT
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 gives a bit more insight into the blessing of comfort.
“God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. “

Beloved ones, pain is not wasted when the Shepherd is near.

By Lynna Clark

“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” Psalm 23:2 KJV

Rest.

It’s a gift we should never take for granted. Just ask the man who works a double shift at the warehouse where he’s paid according to the number of boxes he loads. Or the young mother who is doing her best to raise good children but has so much on her plate she can hardly breathe. Or the doctor who can’t get around to all his patients without rushing through the information at hand. Or the cancer patient who’s up all night sick as a dog.

Rest is a gift from the Lord. While the nation of Israel was being formed, the God of Moses handed down an unusual commandment. While the surrounding nations worked continually just to survive, the Lord promised the Jews that if they took a day off to rest, He would supply their needs. Rest would serve as a testimony of God’s goodness as the other nations watched.

It seems that rest is about trust. Can’t you just see yourself lying back in a plush green pasture, gazing at the cloudless blue sky, thinking of all the things the Lord has done for you? I’d have to spread out an old quilt first because grass makes me itchy, but you get the point. Somewhere in the background is the sound of a gurgling stream. Water flows over smooth rocks with almost a musical quality, soothing and restful.

“He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams.”

Beloved ones: May we take a moment each day to consider the Lord’s great kindness. Trust Him enough to rest in His care. Turn off the world and enter His presence. It’s the best rest you’ll ever have.

By Lynna Clark

In a 1925’s house we once remodeled, we discovered a very unique door. It has an etched glass panel, iron bars, and is very heavy for its size. I really like it. I don’t know what it was in its previous life. But through the years we’ve cleaned it up and placed it flat on tall bar stools to make a writing desk. Later it became a buffet table in the dining room. It worked perfectly since it is so narrow and we have a teeny tiny house. Not like a trendy tiny house where we have to sleep like bats hanging from the rafters. That would not be delightful. More like a house where every space is important. It’s a great place with many quirky nooks and crannies. Kinda like an English muffin. In our bedroom there is a doorway turned closet, that used to open into the kitchen. That is now the place where the refrigerator is tucked… on the kitchen side. That bedroom closet has never had a door. It used to have a curtain but that too was not delightful. Since there are only three small closets in the whole house, I surely don’t diminish the importance of the funky space. It actually has two bars for hanging clothes; one on top and one on the bottom, so we use it for David’s pants and shirts. I got tired of looking at that tidy arrangement. So I wondered. How hard could it be to add barndoor hardware to our old door?
However.
Another wonderful thing about an old house [see story about trying to level our refrigerator], is that nothing is square. Or level. Or easy. It turned out that if the hardware was level with the crown molding, which had been pieced together, the door hung whoppy-jawed over the opening with about a three inch gap on one corner. I’m a wee bit crazy concerning things like that… as-in if a picture is not straight, I can’t let it be until I fix it; even in the doctor’s office, or a restaurant. But seeing how hard David had worked to make this right, I lied and told him it was okay. It was a Rahab lie. You know, for the advancement of God’s kingdom… or something like that. He shook his head. Took the very heavy door down and started over. A choice was made. The top hardware would not be exactly level. But at least there would be no gap with shirtsleeves peaking out. It’s amazing what a quarter inch adjustment means in the grand scheme of things.
Eventually he got the door hung over the closet “hole.” Is it square? Uh… no. Is it level? Somewhat. Does it function? YES! Was it easy? That’s a big negatory. BUT! Do I love it? Yes I do. Something my weird psyche has had to learn is that things can’t always be perfect. But they can be beautiful. Sometimes all it takes is a minor adjustment. And that can usually be made in my thinking. Now when I look at the old door, I no longer see flaws. Instead I see a funky door that covers a plethora of odds and ends that used to be on display to God and everybody.
It feels a bit like contentment. Is it beautiful to me? Yes it is.

By Lynna Clark

Sister Verse

March 3, 2022 by Lynna Clark

I have two sisters who are twins. If I can get this wonky techno crapola from Gehenna to co-operate I’ll include a picture of them. But no promises. They are the best. My sisters that is. Each loves the Lord, diligently studies Scripture, and teaches God’s Word regularly. But best of all, when the rubber meets the road, they take care of the family. Our daddy is eighty-eight and probably the most healthy man you’d ever come into contact with. So strong, he is diligent about his healthy lifestyle. Until recently he was still walking three or more miles per day. He started noticing a change in his breathing. Turns out he needed an aortic heart valve replacement. Wait… what?
It’s bad enough when someone his age needs a knee job. But heart surgery? The thoughts of it scared the life out of me. Another factor in the situation is that while my daddy is the picture of health for his age, I am not. I knew when plans were being made that I would not be able to help take care of him. I won’t lie. He can be a bit ornery, so I wasn’t terribly devastated. However, I worried about my sisters handling all that; especially since one of them lives in Virginia. Our local sister Janice stepped right up. She took care of all the preliminary doctor visits, all the calls and plans, plus she communicated the information to us. Since her husband had recently had heart surgery, she knew the right questions to ask and even understood the med-speak tossed around as-if we do this kind of thing everyday. She took him to the hospital on the day of surgery and sat with him through recovery. That alone was an all day sucker. Once he was moved into a regular room, she fed him dinner while he remained flat on his back. I can’t imagine what that looked like. Hopefully they didn’t have spaghetti. While Janice handled everything, Tamra our Virginia sister, and me held our breath and prayed. It was all we could do. So far, daddy seems to be fine and is supposed to go home today. Depending on his recovery time, Tamra and Janice plan to take turns helping him. Once again, I’ll be home praying as I really have no strength. As I thought on these things this morning, our sister verse came to mind.

“Three are even better, for a triple braided cord is not easily broken.” -Ecclesiastes 4:12b
For years we’ve held to this as we’ve gone through things with our children, the loss of our mama, and other trials. Each of us has our part. This is the first time that all I could do is pray. Thankfully my sisters get that, and even speak often of the value of my prayers. Rather than resent me, they lift me up. I think that’s the gist of the sister verse: each lifting the other until the cord is strong. Having the Lord woven in makes it even stronger. I hope you have someone you can weave into your life along with the Lord.

For a triple braided cord is not easily broken.