It’s always darkest before the dawn. There have been many troubling, painful, and destructive disasters to happen recently. It’s more than large-scale news of tornadoes demolishing memories and lives, flood waters rising and burying communities and millions of acres of farmland, and meltdowns at the chemical power plant. It’s the lives remaining (and lost) that we stopped hearing about after the initial event. It is the day to day struggle to rebuild and/or hang on to what one has left. It’s the person at the bedside of their loved one in the hospital, wanting different news. It’s trying so hard to have something and coming short -- of the promotion, a child, the marriage to last, more time.
In my house, we used to have a little sign as a reminder that all problems, whether you consider them big or small, are about perspective. With that, not to be dismissive of what you do not understand or have not experienced. Today is a moment of encouragement that all is not lost. When things are at their worst, the rainbow will eventually peak through. I am grateful for those hearts that have it to give of themselves to those who are in need and to continue to fight. You never know what end you could be on.
I think The Message bible interpretation is the coolest. While you are making your mark and charting your course, I have added what I’ve found to be celebration and constant encouragement, dancing in verses in Psalms. I’ve put both interpretations of the same verses (so it’s really not at long as it looks).
Psalms 20:4-5 May he give you the desire of your heartand make all your plans succeed.
5We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests. (NIV)
Psalms 20:4-5 Give you what your heart desires, Accomplish your plans. 5When you win, we plan to raise the roofand lead the parade with our banners. May all your wishes come true! (MSG)
Psalms 21:4-5 He asked you for life, and you gave it to him—length of days, for ever and ever.
5Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty. (NIV)
Psalms 21:4-5 He wanted a good life; you gave it to him, and then made it a long life as a bonus.
5You lifted him high and bright as a cumulus cloud, then dressed him in rainbow colors. (MSG)
Psalms 23: 4-5 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil,for you are with me; your rod and your staff,they comfort me. 5You prepare a table before mein the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. (NIV)
Psalms 23: 4-5 Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I'm not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd's crook makes me feel secure. 5You serve me a six-course dinnerright in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head;my cup brims with blessing. (MSG)
Psalms 24: 4-5 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idolor swear by what is false. 5He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. (NIV)
Psalms 24: 4-5 Only the clean-handed,only the pure-hearted; Men who won't cheat,women who won't seduce. 5GOD is at their side; with GOD's help they make it. (MSG)
Psalms 25: 4-5 Show me your ways, O LORD,teach me your paths; 5guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. (NIV)
Psalms 25: 4-5 Show me how you work, GOD; School me in your ways. 5Take me by the hand;Lead me down the path of truth. You are my Savior, aren't you? (MSG)
Have a wonderful day!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0amow-T9Ms -EYESAY