Archives for July 2026

Good morning,

The Golden Key! The Golden Thread!

Octavius Winslow

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Jesus is the one great theme both of the Old Testament and the New. The whole Bible is designed to testify of Christ, “The Scriptures point to Me!” John 5:39

In Christ the Messiah,
in Jesus the Savior,
in the Son of God the Redeemer
—all the truths of the Bible center.

To Him all the types and shadows point!

Of Him all the prophecies give witness!

All the glory of the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation–culminates at the cross of Christ!

The Bible would be an inexplicable mystery apart from Christ, who unfolds and explains it all.

He is the golden Key which unlocks the divine treasury of Scriptural revelation!

Until He is seen, the Bible is, in a sense–a great mystery. But when He is found, it is a glorious revelation.
Every mystery is opened,
every enigma is explained,
every discrepancy is harmonized,
and every truth and page, sentence and word–is quickened with a life and glowing with a light flowing down from the throne of the Eternal God.

Christ is the substance of the Gospel.
  All its divine doctrines,
  all its holy precepts,
  all its gracious instructions,
  all its precious promises,
  all its glorious hopes–
meet, center, and fill up their entire compass in Jesus!

He is the Alpha and the Omega of the Bible–from the first verse in Genesis to the last verse in Revelation.

Oh, study the Scriptures of truth with a view of learning Christ.

Do not study the Bible as a mere history.
Do not read it as a mere poem.
Do not search it as a book of science.
It is all that, but infinitely more.
The Bible is the Book of Jesus!
It is a Revelation of Christ!

Christ is the golden thread which runs through the whole!

Blessed Lord Jesus! I will read and study and dig into the Scriptures, to find and learn more of You!
You, Immanuel, are the fragrance of this divine box of precious ointment.
You are the beauteous gem sparkling in this divine cabinet.
You are the Tree of life planted in the center of this divine garden.
You are the Ocean whose stream quickens and nourishes all who draw water out of this divine well of salvation.
The Bible is all about You!

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

My portion!

(James Smith, “Gleams of Grace” 1860)

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Psalm 119:57, “You are my portion, O Lord!”

Many people are proud of their possessions, and boast of their wealth; yet their possessions are very limited, and their wealth has wings and may flee away at any time!

A Christian may not be proud; but he has great reason to be thankful.

He can look over the whole earth, and say, “My wealth exceeds all this!”

He can look up and gaze on the starry heavens and say, “My property exceeds this vast expanse!”

He may try to conceive of the greatness and glory of the created universe, and then say, “I claim more than all this!”

Looking up to the Author, Owner, and Disposer of all worlds–he can say, “You are my portion, O Lord!”

What a privilege! A portion–and such a portion.
God Himself in all His greatness, and in all His goodness.
God with all He is, and all He has–is my portion!

What kind of a portion is this? It is immense, for it comprehends all.
All the attributes of the Divine nature, are for us.
All the perfections of God’s character, are on our side.
All the productions of the divine power, are for our good.
Therefore the apostle says, “All things are yours!”
Nothing good is withheld from us!

What the father of the prodigal said to his eldest son–our heavenly Father says to every one of His children, “Son, you are ever with Me, and all that I have is yours!”

We may adopt similar language in speaking to our heavenly Father, to that used by the angel to Abraham, “By this I know that You love me, because You have not withheld Your Son, Your only Son from me!” And from this fact, we may draw the same conclusion as Paul did, “He who spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall he not with Him also, freely give us all things!”

O beloved, God in all the glory of His nature and perfections, God with all His unsearchable riches–is our portion!

What kind of a portion is this? It is immutable. It remains forever. Others may lose their property, or it may become deteriorated and comparatively valueless–but our portion is forever the same!

Our portion can never be forfeited, or alienated, or reduced in value–because it is the unchangeable God Himself!

Blessed is the man that can say with Jeremiah, “The Lord is my portion, therefore will I hope in Him!”
Or with David, “The Lord is the portion of my inheritance!”

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever!” Psalm 73:26 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Psalm 107 is a poignant reminder of God’s unwavering mercy and enduring love for those who cry out to Him in their distress. The Psalmist beautifully narrates the divine intervention experienced by the lost, the imprisoned, the sick, and the sea-travelers. It is an earnest call for thanksgiving, recognizing God’s redeeming work in life’s most desolate moments. The Psalm wonderfully encapsulates the human journey from suffering to redemption. 

Psalm 107

Call to Thank the Redeemer (1-3)

O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.² Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;³ And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.

The psalmist opens with an invitation: “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.” This sets the tone for the entire psalm, reminding us that gratitude is a powerful tool in our spiritual arsenal. When we focus on God’s goodness and steadfast love, our perspective shifts from our problems to His promises. 

All who have been “redeemed from the hand of the enemy” are summoned to praise—the scattered exiles, now gathered from “east and west, north and south,” testify that God has kept His covenant promise. 

Wanderers Gathered and Fed (4-9)

⁴ They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.⁵ Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.⁶ Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.⁷ And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.⁸ Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!⁹ For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

Travelers lost in trackless wastes hunger and thirst until their strength fails. When they “cry out to the LORD in their distress,” He leads them to a city where they can settle. Their empty stomachs are filled; their thirsty souls are satisfied. 

Prisoners Freed (10-16)

¹⁰ Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron;¹¹ Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:¹² Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help.¹³ Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses.¹⁴ He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder.¹⁵ Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!¹⁶ For he hath broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder.

Others sit in “gloom and darkness, prisoners in chains,” because they rebelled against God’s word. Their bondage is shattered when they cry to Him. “He breaks down bronze gates and cuts through iron bars,” proving no human confinement is stronger than His mercy. 

The Sick Restored (17-22)    

 ¹⁷ Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.¹⁸ Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.¹⁹ Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses.²⁰ He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.²¹ Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!²² And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.

Fools who despise God’s ways suffer affliction that brings them to death’s door. But one prayer turns the tide: “He sent forth His word and healed them.” Their deliverance inspires thank-offerings and public witness. 

Sailors Delivered from the Storm (23-32)

 ²³ They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;²⁴ These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.²⁵ For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.²⁶ They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.²⁷ They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit’s end.²⁸ Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.²⁹ He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.³⁰ Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.³¹ Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!³² Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. 

Mariners see God’s “wonders in the deep” when towering waves lift them to the sky and plunge them to the depths. Helpless, they cry out, and the LORD hushes the sea to a whisper. Safe in port, they lead the congregation in praise.

Reversals of Fortune (33-38)

³³ He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground;³⁴ A fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.³⁵ He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.³⁶ And there he maketh the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation; ³⁷ And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of increase. ³⁸ He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.

God turns rivers into desert and desert into pools, humbling the proud and blessing the needy. He plants the hungry in fertile fields so they “multiply greatly,” showing He can flip the fortunes of peoples and lands. 

Finale: Wisdom in the Works of God (39-43)

³⁹ Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.⁴⁰ He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way.⁴¹ Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock.⁴² The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.⁴³ Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the Lord.

Oppression may return, but God still lifts the poor. The righteous celebrate; the wicked are silenced. “Let him who is wise give heed to these things and consider the loving devotion of the LORD.”

Teaching Points

God’s Redeeming Love  

Psalm 107:2-3 emphasizes the call for the redeemed to proclaim their deliverance: Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy and gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.

Four Illustrations of Deliverance    

The psalm presents four scenarios of distress and God’s deliverance: wandering in the desert (v. 4-9), sitting in darkness and chains (v. 10-16), suffering from foolishness (v. 17-22), and facing peril at sea (v. 23-32).

The Repeated Call to Give Thanks 

 Each section concludes with a call to thank the Lord for His steadfast love and wondrous works (v. 8, 15, 21, 31).                                       

God’s Sovereignty and Power

Verses 33-42 highlight God’s control over nature and nations, demonstrating His ability to transform situations and bless the righteous.

The Wise Response

The psalm concludes with a call for wisdom: Whoever is wise, let him heed these things and consider the loving devotion of the LORD (v. 43).

Lessons from Psalm 107

1. The Power of Gratitude
Psalm 107 opens with a call to give thanks to the Lord, for He is good and His love endures forever. This sets the tone for the entire psalm, reminding us that gratitude is a powerful tool in our spiritual arsenal. When we focus on God’s goodness and steadfast love, our perspective shifts from our problems to His promises. As it says in Psalm 107:1, “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.” Cultivating a heart of gratitude can transform our daily lives, helping us to see God’s hand in every situation.

2. Redemption is for Everyone
The psalm highlights that God redeems people from all corners of the earth, emphasizing His universal love and salvation. “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (Psalm 107:2). This is a reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Whether you feel lost, broken, or unworthy, God’s redemption is available to you. Embrace this truth and share it with others, knowing that His love knows no bounds.

3. God Hears Our Cries
Throughout Psalm 107, we see a pattern: people in distress cry out to the Lord, and He delivers them. “Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress” (Psalm 107:6). This reassures us that God is attentive to our prayers. No matter how dire our circumstances, we can trust that He hears us and is ready to act on our behalf. Let this encourage you to bring your concerns to Him, confident in His willingness to help.

4. The Wilderness is Temporary
The psalm describes people wandering in the desert, hungry and thirsty, until they find a city to dwell in. This illustrates that our wilderness experiences are temporary. “He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle” (Psalm 107:7). When you find yourself in a season of wandering or uncertainty, remember that God is guiding you to a place of rest and fulfillment. Trust in His timing and direction, knowing that He has a plan for your journey.

5. God’s Word Brings Healing
Psalm 107:20 states, “He sent forth His word and healed them; He rescued them from the pit.” This highlights the transformative power of God’s Word. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we open ourselves to healing and restoration. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or spiritual healing you seek, turn to the Bible as a source of comfort and strength. Allow God’s Word to penetrate your heart and bring about the change you need.

6. Praise is a Response to Deliverance
The psalm repeatedly calls for praise in response to God’s deliverance. “Let them give thanks to the LORD for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men” (Psalm 107:8). When God intervenes in our lives, our natural response should be one of praise and thanksgiving. This not only honors God but also strengthens our faith and encourages those around us. Make it a habit to celebrate God’s goodness and share your testimonies of His faithfulness.

7. God Breaks Chains
In Psalm 107:14, we read, “He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke away their chains.” This powerful imagery reminds us that God is in the business of breaking chains and setting captives free. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, fear, or any form of bondage, know that God has the power to liberate you. Trust in His ability to break every chain and lead you into a life of freedom and purpose.

8. The Importance of Community
The psalm emphasizes the collective experience of God’s people, highlighting the importance of community. “Let them exalt Him in the assembly of the people and praise Him in the council of the elders” (Psalm 107:32). We are not meant to walk this journey alone. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can support, encourage, and hold you accountable. Together, we can lift each other up and celebrate God’s work in our lives.

9. God’s Sovereignty Over Creation
Psalm 107:29 declares, “He calmed the storm to a whisper, and the waves of the sea were hushed.” This reminds us of God’s sovereignty over all creation. No matter how chaotic our circumstances may seem, God is in control. He has the power to calm the storms in our lives and bring peace to our hearts. Trust in His authority and rest in the assurance that He is working all things for your good.

10. The Call to Share Our Stories
The psalm concludes with a call to share the stories of God’s faithfulness. “Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the LORD” (Psalm 107:43). Our testimonies are powerful tools for evangelism and encouragement. By sharing how God has worked in our lives, we can inspire others to seek Him and experience His love for themselves. Be bold in telling your story, knowing that it can make an eternal impact.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx                      Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Free Indeed!

Various authors

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

The world prizes freedom. Every generation longs for it. People fight for political freedom, financial freedom, personal freedom, and the freedom to live according to their own desires. Yet Jesus confronts us with a startling truth: a person may live in the freest nation on earth, and still be a slave.

The greatest tyranny is not imposed by governments, but by sin. The strongest chains are not forged from iron, but from guilt, corruption, fear, and death. Every son and daughter of Adam is born in bondage. We are slaves to sin, unable to free ourselves, condemned before a holy God, and unable to break our own chains of sin.

Yet into this hopeless condition comes the glorious promise of Jesus: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed!” John 8:36

This is not partial freedom. It is not temporary relief.
It is perfect, lasting, spiritual liberty purchased by Jesus Himself.

Jesus frees us from slavery to SIN

Every person is born in sin, and is a slave to sin. In Jesus, however, we are liberated in every dimension of salvation. He removes . . .
  the guilt of sin by forgiving us completely,
  the penalty of sin by bearing God’s judgment in our place,
  the power of sin by breaking its dominion through the Holy Spirit,
  and one day the very presence of sin when He glorifies His people.

Jesus does not merely improve sinners–He sets captives free, and transforms them into sons and daughters of God.

Jesus frees us from the curse and condemnation of the LAW

God’s Law is holy and good, but because of our sin, it pronounces a righteous curse upon every transgressor. Jesus fulfilled the Law perfectly, and willingly became a curse for His people on the cross, satisfying its every demand. Therefore, those who are united to Jesus by faith are no longer condemned, but stand clothed in His righteousness before God. “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.” Galatians 3:13

Jesus frees us from bondage to human opinions and customs

The fear of man enslaves countless hearts, causing people to seek acceptance from others. Jesus delivers believers from this tyranny, by giving them a greater fear–the fear of the Lord; and a greater approval–the smile of their heavenly Father. Freed from the need to please people, Christians are empowered to obey God regardless of the world’s praise or ridicule.

Jesus frees us from the accusations of a guilty conscience

An awakened conscience rightly reminds us of our sin, but Satan delights in using those memories to accuse and discourage God’s people. Jesus answers every accusation with His finished work. Because His blood has fully atoned for sin, the believer’s conscience may rest in the certainty that every charge has been answered at Calvary.

Jesus frees us from slavery to the DEVIL

Before conversion, sinners live under Satan’s dominion, blinded to the glory of Jesus and captive to His will. But through His death and resurrection, Jesus defeated the devil, broke his authority over believers, and transferred them into His own kingdom. Satan still tempts, but he no longer owns those whom Jesus has redeemed.

Jesus frees us from slavery to the WORLD

The world entices with pleasure, wealth, popularity, comfort, and prestige. It promises satisfaction while leading souls farther from God. Jesus opens our eyes to the emptiness of these fleeting attractions, and gives us a greater treasure–Himself! Once captivated by the world’s glitter, believers now see its pleasures as temporary and its promises as hollow, choosing instead the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus.

Jesus frees us from the fear of DEATH

Death is humanity’s greatest enemy, yet Jesus has transformed it for His people. By His resurrection He conquered the grave, removing its sting and securing eternal life for His redeemed people. For the Christian, death is no longer the doorway into Hell, but an entrance into the eternal and glorious presence of Jesus.

Jesus frees us from God’s righteous WRATH, and eternal HELL

The greatest freedom Jesus gives, is deliverance from the righteous wrath of God. Every sinner deserves eternal judgment, but Jesus willingly bore that wrath in the place of His people.

“God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!” Romans 5:8-9

“For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath, but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:9

“He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13–14

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

The Savior’s dying love

Charles Spurgeon, et al.

(You will find it helpful to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Romans 5:8, “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us!”

There is no love on earth to compare with the love of Jesus. His love is not a mere sentiment–it is a mighty, active, sacrificial love. From eternity past, He set His heart upon a people given to Him by the Father. Knowing full well their rebellion, guilt, and depravity–He loved them still. And because He loved them, He came down from the heights of glory to the depths of shame–to be the sin-atoning sacrifice for their sins.

The love of Jesus is a SOVEREIGN love–free, undeserved, and initiated by Himself alone. “We love Him, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) There was nothing in us to attract Him–only vileness to repulse Him. Yet He set His love upon us with everlasting determination.

The love of Jesus is a SUFFERING love. He bore the wrath we deserved. He was pierced for our transgressions, and crushed for our iniquities. (Isaiah 53:5) Every blow He received, every thorn pressed into His brow, every nail driven through His flesh–proclaimed the depth and cost of His love for His people. The wounds of Jesus are the sure pledges of His love. He wrote His love in crimson letters upon the cross.

The love of Jesus is a PERSONAL love. “The Son of God…loved ME and gave Himself for ME.” (Galatians 2:20)
He knows and loves each of His redeemed people individually.
He sought us when we were wandering.
He drew us with cords of kindness.
He washed us in His blood.
He clothed us in His righteousness.
He calls us His brothers, His bride, His beloved.

The love of Jesus is an UNCHANGING love. Human love fades and falters–but not His. Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end. (John 13:1) Nothing in Heaven or on earth, in life or death, can separate us from His love! (Romans 8:39) His love does not fluctuate with our failures. It is rooted in His eternal purpose, and secured by His substitutionary atonement on the cross. O wondrous love of Jesus–matchless, infinite, and everlasting!

May His love for us melt our hearts, stir our affections, and move us to live wholly for Him. How can we not love the One who so loved us? Let us sit at His feet, gaze upon His wounds, cling to His cross, and joyfully say, “I am my Beloved’s, and my Beloved is mine!” (Song of Songs 6:3)

“May you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should: how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully!” (Ephesians 3:18-19                                     xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx     Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

The anvil upon which the opinions of men are smashed

Charles Spurgeon, “Renewing Strength”

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

2 Timothy 3:16-17. “All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

The Scriptures contain:
  the mind of God,
  the state of man,
  the way of salvation,
  the doom of lost sinners,
  and the happiness of believers.

Christians must depend upon God’s Word as their only creed. They do not add to it anything whatever–no, not a sentence or a thought. Those have greatly erred, who look upon anything as the authoritative standard of belief, but God’s own Word. The Christian is not bound to any beliefs, but that which God Himself has revealed in His Word.

I have nothing to do with human creeds as the standard of my beliefs.
The only point I have to do with is this:
  What does God say?
  What does His Word say?

Within the covers of the Bible you find all theology. Nothing outside of this Book is binding on a Christian man as doctrine, in the least degree whatever. The Bible and the Bible alone is the creed of Christians. The Word of God is the anvil upon which the opinions of men are smashed.

We yield implicit faith to all that He has revealed, and to nothing else. A true church of God will say, “The Word of the Lord is to us, our infallible source of doctrine, and that alone.”

The Bible alone is the Christian’s chart, compass, map, and guide. He who would make progress in the heavenly voyage, must sail by this divine chart. The more you read the Bible, and the more you meditate upon it; the more you will be astonished with it.

“The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul
the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple.

The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart;
the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever;
the judgments of the LORD are true, being altogether righteous.

They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.

By them indeed Your servant is warned;
in keeping them is great reward.” Psalm 19:7-11

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

A special privilege and comfort of old age

Richard Steele, “A Discourse Concerning Old-age, Tending to the Instruction, Caution and Comfort of Aged People” 1688

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Proverbs 16:31, “The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.”

The older a man grows, the wiser he should grow. And the wiser he grows, the less likely he is to choose evil. The more divine strokes and judgments he has seen upon evil-doers, the more he should be afraid of tampering with it.

A special privilege and comfort of old age is that it is richer in experience than any other age. The aged believer can tell experimentally . . .
  of the wisdom and justice of God’s providence,
  of the truth of His promises and threatenings,
  of the devices of Satan,
  of the deceitfulness of riches,
  of the wisdom of integrity,
  of the vanity of all carnal delights,
  of the wickedness of his own heart.

Old age is rich in the experience of these things, whereby they are able to govern themselves, and to advise others. Their . . .
Their judgments are more refined,
Their passions are more sedate,
Their graces are more strong,
Their actions are more consistent,
  and their spiritual stature is taller.

Trace some godly aged men from morning to night, you shall find them . . .
  so discreet in their charity,
  so grave in their counsels,
  so savory in their discourse,
  so constant in their piety,
  so considerate in their resolutions,
  so faithful in their reproofs,
  so poised in their temper,
  so charitable in their censures,
  and so uniform and useful in their lives,
that their practice may be a perpetual sermon, and an example to teach others their duty to God and man.

By long experience, aged believers are taught to avoid many dangers which others fall into. Their manifold experience of the deceitfulness of the flesh, of the world and of the devil–has enabled them to counter and somewhat conquer them. And their experience renders them able to give the most prudent counsels, and to forewarn others of those consequences which they easily foresee–if they have treasured up wisdom according to their years.

“The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.” Proverbs 16:31

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Psalm 106 shows us the goodness of God and the sinfulness of the people.

Psalm 106

We have sinned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly. (Psalm 106:6)

Call to Praise and the Blessed (1-3)

Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.² Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? who can shew forth all his praise? ³ Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.

Psalm 106 begins with a call to praise the Lord, reminding us of His enduring love and faithfulness: “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His mercy endures forever” (Psalm 106:1). This sets the tone for the entire psalm, encouraging us to reflect on God’s unwavering commitment to His people throughout history. By remembering His faithfulness, we can find strength and hope in our daily lives, knowing that He is always with us. Those who practice justice and righteousness are declared blessed right now, not just in the future. (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

 Personal Plea for Grace (4–5)

⁴ Remember me, O Lord, with the favour that thou bearest unto thy people: O visit me with thy salvation;⁵ That I may see the good of thy chosen, that I may rejoice in the gladness of thy nation, that I may glory with thine inheritance.

The writer moves from public praise to a private cry: “Remember me, O LORD…,” longing to share in the welfare, joy, and heritage of God’s chosen ones. (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Rebellion and Redemption at the Red Sea (6–12) 

⁶ We have sinned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly.⁷ Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt; they remembered not the multitude of thy mercies; but provoked him at the sea, even at the Red sea.⁸ Nevertheless he saved them for his name’s sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.⁹ He rebuked the Red sea also, and it was dried up: so he led them through the depths, as through the wilderness.¹⁰ And he saved them from the hand of him that hated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy.¹¹ And the waters covered their enemies: there was not one of them left.¹² Then believed they his words; they sang his praise.

The psalmist confesses the sins of the people, recognizing that we have sinned like our fathers; we have done wrong and acted wickedly (Psalm 106:6). This acknowledgment is crucial for repentance and restoration.

Israel’s long record of sin begins: “We have sinned with our fathers.” Even at the Red Sea they rebelled, yet God “saved them for the sake of His name,” parting the waters and destroying Pharaoh’s army. Faith briefly flared: “Then they believed His words; they sang His praise.” (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Cravings, Complaints, and Consequences (13–18)

¹³ They soon forgot his works; they waited not for his counsel:¹⁴ But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert.¹⁵ And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.¹⁶ They envied Moses also in the camp, and Aaron the saint of the Lord.¹⁷ The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan and covered the company of Abiram.¹⁸ And a fire was kindled in their company; the flame burned up the wicked.

Quickly forgetting, they craved in the wilderness, tested God, and received their request “but sent leanness into their soul.” Envy of Moses and Aaron led to the earth swallowing Dathan and Abiram, and fire consuming the rebels. (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

 The Golden Calf and Moses’ Intercession (19–23)

¹⁹ They made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the molten image.²⁰ Thus they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eateth grass.        ²¹ They forgat God, their saviour, which had done great things in Egypt;²² Wondrous works in the land of Ham, and terrible things by the Red sea.      ²³ Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy them.

At Sinai they made a calf, “exchanged their Glory for the image of a grass-eating ox.” God threatened to destroy, but “Moses His chosen one stood in the breach” and turned back His wrath. 

The psalm highlights the role of intercessors like Moses, who stood in the breach before Him to turn His wrath away from destroying them (Psalm 106:23). This underscores the power of prayer and advocacy. (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Refusal of the Promised Land (24–27)

²⁴ Yea, they despised the pleasant land, they believed not his word:²⁵ But murmured in their tents, and hearkened not unto the voice of the Lord.²⁶ Therefore he lifted up his hand against them, to overthrow them in the wilderness:²⁷ To overthrow their seed also among the nations, and to scatter them in the lands.

Despising the pleasant land, they refused to trust God’s promise, grumbled in their tents, and were sentenced to fall in the desert while their children would enter Canaan. 

The people despised the pleasant land and did not believe God’s promise, leading to their wandering in the wilderness. “They despised the pleasant land; they did not believe His promise” (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Baal Peor and the Zeal of Phinehas (28–31) 

²⁸ They joined themselves also unto Baalpeor, and ate the sacrifices of the dead.²⁹ Thus they provoked him to anger with their inventions: and the plague brake in upon them.³⁰ Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed.³¹ And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.

Israel yoked themselves to Baal of Peor; a plague struck until Phinehas “intervened, and the plague was restrained,” his zeal “credited to him as righteousness for endless generations.” (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Anger at Meribah (32–33) 

³² They angered him also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes:³³ Because they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips.

At Meribah they provoked God so severely that Moses “spoke rashly with his lips,” costing him entry into the land. (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

 Compromise, Idolatry, and Child Sacrifice (34–39)

³⁴ They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the Lord commanded them:³⁵ But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works.³⁶ And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them.³⁷ Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,³⁸ And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood.³⁹ Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.

They failed to destroy the nations, mingled with them, served idols, and even sacrificed sons and daughters to demons, shedding innocent blood. (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Judgment Yet Mercy (40-46)

⁴⁰ Therefore was the wrath of the Lord kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.⁴¹ And he gave them into the hand of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.⁴² Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand.⁴³ Many times did he deliver them; but they provoked him with their counsel, and were brought low for their iniquity.⁴⁴ Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry:⁴⁵ And he remembered for them his covenant, and repented according to the multitude of his mercies.⁴⁶ He made them also to be pitied of all those that carried them captives.

God’s anger burned, He handed them to their foes; yet time after time “He took note of their distress,” heard their cry, and “relented according to the greatness of His loving devotion.”  (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Prayer for Salvation and Final Praise (47-48)

⁴⁷ Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise.⁴⁸ Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord.

The psalmist pleads, “Save us, O LORD our God…,” gathering His people for praise. The congregation answers: “Blessed be the LORD… Let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ Praise the LORD!”  (https://biblehub.com/kjv/psalms/106.htm)

Conclusion

The psalm details the consequences of Israel’s disobedience, such as being scattered among the nations: “He handed them over to the nations, and those who hated them ruled over them” (Psalm 106:41). This theme underscores the seriousness of sin. 

Despite their rebellion, God shows mercy: “Nevertheless He regarded their affliction when He heard their cry” (Psalm 106:44). The Hebrew root “racham” (to have compassion) highlights God’s merciful nature.

The psalm reflects on the covenant relationship between God and Israel: “He remembered His covenant with them, and relented by the abundance of His loving devotion” (Psalm 106:45). The Hebrew word “berith” (covenant) signifies this enduring bond.

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

They would pass by these glittering unrealities!

J.R. Miller

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Proverbs 23:5, “Will you set your eyes upon that which is not? Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone–for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle!”

People are badly cheated in this world. They often imagine that gold, silver, houses, lands, and stocks are the real treasures. So they toil for these things and gather them into their possession, and pile up what they suppose to be wealth. Thus they live like princes in their fine houses, and call themselves rich.

But one day their supposed riches take to themselves wings and fly away like eagles to the skies. Or they may keep their wealth, perhaps, and die in the midst of it, and have a fine funeral. But then they find that they cannot carry a penny of it with them!

“How much did he leave?” was asked about a rich man who had recently died.

“He left all of it!” was the answer.

If men only knew that there are other things far more worth setting their eyes and hearts upon–things which will never fly away–they would pass by these glittering unrealities, to lay hold of the true riches!

“With Me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, pure gold, and My harvest surpasses choice silver.” Proverbs 8:18-19                                                 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Our great lesson!

(James Smith, “The Pastor’s Morning Visit”)

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.
n.b. there are two small recording errors in the following.)

“I will instruct you.” Psalm 32:8

At best we know but little, and we are slow to learn.
But the Lord has promised to instruct us.

The Lord’s teaching always produces . . .
  humility,
  self-loathing,
  confidence in God,
  zeal for His glory,
  and heart-devotion to Him!

The Lord’s teaching always . . .
  brings us to the feet of Jesus, and
  delivers us from the present evil world.

Under Divine instruction we learn . . .
  the true nature of sin,
  the vanity of the world,
  the emptiness of creatures,
  and the fullness and preciousness of Christ!

Is God willing to instruct us?
Then let us be early and often at His throne of grace; praying, as the Psalmist did,
“Show me Your ways, O LORD,
teach me Your paths;
guide me in Your truth and teach me;
for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long.” Psalm 25:4-5

Then shall we exclaim, as Elihu did, “God is exalted in His power. Who is a teacher like Him!” Job 36:22
The Lord will teach us to profit, and sanctify us through the truth He imparts.

Christ is our great lesson, and to know Him rightly is life, peace and joy!

Is Jesus your Teacher? Then . . .
  sit at His feet,
  treasure up His Words,
  and show forth His praise!

He says, “Learn of Me.” Learn to . . .
  know Him,
  love Him,
  obey Him,
  and live upon Him!

“Teach me Your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path!” Psalm 27:11

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 Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com