I've used one to do cross stitch.
I've used one to shape a cake into a bunny rabbit.
There are patterns for all those things. Examples to follow. Instructions.
Scripture gives us patterns. Jesus Himself was and is the very Pattern of life. He didn't draw it out or write it on paper. He lived it. We can never have the excuse that God doesn't know how difficult it is to follow the pattern of His holiness. Jesus knows. So God knows....
This morning, my attention is drawn to Isaiah 12. There is a pattern there. A pattern of praise.
We love to sing songs about heaven.
We sing songs that say "I'll fly away.....when I die..... I'll fly away."
We sing songs of encouragement to each other. "Hold to God's unchanging Hand...."
We sing about blessing, "count your blessings, name them one by one..."
We sing wishing to "...hear mother, pray again."
I do love to sing. And all those things are great things to sing about. In fact, I am very particular about what I WILL sing. I opt out of singing something if the lyrics go against what is true and right.
Isaiah 12 has a pattern.
I am thankful for forgiveness. (vs.1)
I fear God, but I am not afraid of Him. He is trustworthy. (vs.2)
I ultimately have no strength, His is limitless and is mine for the asking. (vs.2)
I am free to take from Him what sustains and refreshes, and saves. (vs.3)
When I have experienced His love, I can not help but share it. I must help others remember. (vs. 4)
It is to my own benefit to acknowledge and appreciate the excellent things He has done. (vs.5)
The Holy One of Israel is still in our midst. (vs.6)
A pattern of praise....
I am thankful for the blessings of His Hand...but is His Face I seek.
I purpose to praise HIM.
He is always and only...good.
