Springs in the Valley: January 28
Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. (1 Kings 19:11)
A rebuke is often a blessing in disguise. Elijah needed this form of address in order to arouse him to an understanding of his causeless fear. Such a one has no right to be fitful and repining. If he will go forth and stand upon the mount before the Lord, instead of hiding away in a cave, he will find new inspiration in a new vision of His power! When we are living on earth’s low levels we fail to catch the inspiring visions of God which are the true support of the prophetic life. We must come out into the sunshine and make the ascent of the mountain if we would discern those evidences of God’s power which are always available for the re-creation of faith and courage.
The golden-crested wren is one of the tiniest of birds; it is said to weigh only the fifth part of an ounce, and yet, on frailest pinions, it braves hurricanes and crosses northern seas.
It often seems in nature as though Omnipotence works but through frailest organisms; certainly, the Omnipotence of grace is seen to the greatest advantage in the trembling but resolute saint.
On the American prairies the butterflies start westward in their migrations and make steady progress though the wind is against them and the sea in front. The delicate butterflies rebuke me:
Step out on the waves
That would crush you!
Step out in the storm
That would hush you!
And you will find
As you touch the crest
You feared so much,
And walk on its breast,
There was One walking there,
The whole night through,
Walking, watching
Waiting – for you.

January 27th, 2012 at 2:04 pm
Thanks, Ron! Was the perfect word for me today.. Blessings!
January 27th, 2012 at 9:37 pm
It’s heartwarming to read this little article from you. Since this is my first time entering your website, I’m glad to read that like me, you belong to His fold.
Your Dad has worked on my son’s violin in Lake Elsinore. He showed me your pics in his garage.
God bless you.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:13 pm
Ron, though I have never personally met you, I have heard about you from your father many times. Needles to say, he is intensely proud of you. I grew up in Redondo Beach and my mother bought my early musical instruments at Hogan’s House of Music in Hawthorne, where your dad worked. I moved to Lake Elsinore in the mid 80’s and was very pleased to find “Chuck” there, too. He has repaired many of my guitars, and as a matter of fact, I just left his garage shop 20 minutes ago. Good luck with AKUS’ 27th + Grammy’s!
February 11th, 2012 at 2:08 am
Ron, this is a wonderful devotional, a great encouragement in these turbulent times. I’ve listened to you solo and with AKUS over the years and I’m always grateful for your solid Christian witness. Glad you are where you are and allowing God to use you.
February 17th, 2012 at 5:49 am
Hello friend! Have been hoping to connect again. Beautiful quote…exactly what I needed this moment. The book has been a blessing still. Hope to talk soon & get the boys all together! Light & Peace – Jill (grayce & reece)
February 29th, 2012 at 11:07 am
You’re “high altitude.”
March 3rd, 2012 at 2:55 pm
Hi Ron i was going thru some old pics and found one of you playing an old gibson mandolin and my dad on guitar. This old gibson i have inhearited and would be overjoyed if you would sign it for me. hope and joy.