DEAR GOD: Your Grace Is Sufficient & Appreciated~

by // // No Comments

God’s Grace is Sufficient – First Baptist RockportBut grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
Ephesian 4:17 (ESV)

Commentary

This verse from Ephesians speaks to the profound and personal nature of the grace we receive from Christ. It highlights that grace is certainly not a one size fits all gift. Instead, it is uniquely tailored to each individual according to the LORD Jesus Christ’s infinite wisdom and love. This grace empowers us to fulfill our specific roles that were designed by the Master’s own hands. He equips us with the abilities and strength needed to serve and build up the church.

In today’s world, where comparison and competition can often overshadow our sense of self worth, this verse reminds us that each person is valued and gifted in their own way, according to the LORD’s design and purpose and will.

 Reflective Questions:

  • How have you experienced the unique grace that Christ has given you in
    your life?

  • In what ways can you use your God given gifts to serve others and build up the church?

  • How can understanding that each person receives grace according to Christ’s
    measure help you to appreciate and support others’ gifts?

Moral Takeaways:

  • Value Your Unique Gifts: Recognize and appreciate the unique gifts and grace
    given to you by Christ. Use them to serve and uplift others.

  • Avoid Comparison: Understand that grace is individually tailored and avoid comparing your gifts and grace to others.

  • Encourage Others: Support and encourage others in their unique gifts,
    recognizing that each person has a valuable role to play in the body of Christ.

Supporting Scriptures:

  1. Romans 12:6 (ESV): “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,
    let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;”

    • Reinforces the idea that our gifts differ according to the grace given to us
      and should be used accordingly.

  2. 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as
    good stewards of God’s varied grace:”

    • Encourages us to use our unique gifts to serve one another, reflecting God’s
      diverse grace.

Prayer:

“Heavenly Father, we thank you for the unique grace you have given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Help us to recognize and value the gifts you have bestowed upon us. Teach us to use these gifts to serve others and to build up your church. May we avoid the trap of comparison and instead, encourage and support one another in our unique callings. Guide us in your wisdom and love, that we may be good stewards of your varied grace, in Jesus’ name – Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

2 Corinthians 9:8 (ESV): “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that 
having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”

Blessing:

May you be blessed with the awareness of the unique grace that Christ has given you. May you find joy and purpose in using your gifts to serve others, and may you be filled with peace, knowing that you are valued and loved by God. Walk in His grace and be a light to those around you, each day for all the days and beyond.

God Bless You All~

Illustration of 2 Corinthians 12:9 — "My grace is sufficient for thee ...

DEAR GOD: Search My Heart – Create In Me A New Spirit~

by // // No Comments

Does God love unconditionally? | Biblword.net

Jeremiah 17:10 (ESV)

“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to
his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.”

Commentary:

Jeremiah 17:10 is a verse that resonates deeply with the themes of divine justice and personal
integrity. It speaks to the profound truth that God, in His
omniscience, examines our innermost thoughts and motives.

Unlike human judgment, which often sees only the surface, God’s assessment
penetrates to the very core of our being. This verse is a powerful reminder that your actions are weighed not just by their outward appearance, but by the intentions that drive them.

In today’s world, where appearances can often be deceiving and outward success is frequently
valued over inner virtue, this verse calls us to a higher standard of authenticity and integrity.

 It invites us to reflect on the true motives behind our actions and to strive for a
life that aligns our inner values with our outward
behavior.

God’s promise to give every man according to his ways and the fruit of his deeds is both
reassuring and sobering. It reassures us that God sees and rewards the
good that we do, even if it goes unnoticed by others. At the same time, it calls us to examine our lives and to strive for righteousness, knowing that we are accountable to the One who knows our hearts.

Moral Takeaways:

  • Authenticity: Strive to be genuine in all that you do, aligning your inner values
    with your outward actions.

  • Integrity: Remember that true integrity means doing the right thing
    even when no one is watching, because God sees and knows our hearts.

  • Accountability: Live with the awareness that we are accountable
    to God for our thoughts, motives, and deeds.

Reflective Questions:

  • How often do you reflect on the true motives behind your actions?

  • In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to maintain integrity
    and authenticity?

  • How can you cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence in your daily
    life, knowing that He searches your heart and tests your mind?

Supporting Scriptures:

  1. Proverbs 21:2 (ESV): “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord
    weighs the heart.”

    • Reinforces the idea that God’s judgment is based on the heart, not
      just outward actions.

  2. 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV): “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance
    or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him.
    For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward
    appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'”

    • Highlights the importance of inner character over outward
      appearance.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, We come before you with hearts open and minds willing to be tested by your
divine wisdom. Help us to live lives of authenticity and integrity, aligning our inner values with your outward actions. Search our hearts and reveal any areas where we fall short. Guide us in your truth and strengthen our resolve to live righteously. Thank you for your unwavering presence and your just and merciful nature. May our lives bear the fruit of good deeds that are pleasing in your sight. Amen.

Scripture to Meditate Upon:

Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV): “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my
thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way
everlasting!”

Blessing:

May the Lord, who searches hearts and tests minds, fill you with His wisdom
and strength. May your life reflect His love and truth, and may you find peace in knowing that
you are seen and valued by the One who knows you completely.
Walk in His light and be a beacon of integrity and authenticity to the world
around you.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Your Touch Heals, Soothes, & Brings Joy~

by // // No Comments

Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

Let’s dive into some verses of healing, and God’s promises to bring us joy and comfort and peace!

Healing Verses (ESV):

Jeremiah 17:14: “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save
me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise.”

Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their
wounds.”

Isaiah 53:5: “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was
crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that
brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”

Commentary:

Healing, in both physical and spiritual senses, is a profound act of grace and tender mercy from God.

The verses from Jeremiah, Psalms, and Isaiah remind us that God is not only aware of our pains and sufferings but is actively involved in healing us.

This healing is not just a remedy for our bodies but extends to our hearts and souls. He extends this great compassion and mercy to all those who are willing to accept it, and go to Him with hearts filled with truth, seeking Him in earnest.

When Jeremiah cries out, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed,” it’s a declaration of complete trust in God’s power to heal. It is an acknowledgment that true healing comes from the LORD the ultimate Healer.

Similarly, the Psalmist in Psalm 147 speaks to the deep and intimate care God has for the brokenhearted. God does not just heal physical wounds but also the emotional and spiritual ones, binding up our sorrows with His boundless love.

Isaiah 53:5 connects this healing directly to the sacrifice of Jesus. It highlights that our healing has been paid for by the wounds Christ bore on our behalf. 

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of God’s love and the
lengths He went to bring us peace and healing.

Moral Thoughts:

  • Trust in Divine Healing: Our trust in God’s ability to heal us should be unwavering, recognizing that He has the power to mend not just our
    bodies but our spirits.

  • Holistic Healing: Healing is not just physical but emotional and
    spiritual. God’s care encompasses every aspect of our being.

  • Gratitude for Christ’s Sacrifice: The ultimate source of our healing is the sacrifice of Jesus, and our gratitude should reflect the magnitude of
    this gift.

Reflective Questions:

  • How have you experienced God’s healing in your life, whether
    physically, emotionally, or spiritually?

  • In what ways can you place your trust more fully in God’s
    ability to heal your current struggles?

  • How does reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice for your healing
    deepen your gratitude and faith?

Prayer:

Dear LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank you for your infinite love and the healing power that you bestow upon us.

Heal us, O Lord, in our times of pain and suffering, and bind our wounds with your tender care.

Teach us to trust wholly in your ability to restore us, both body and soul. We are forever grateful for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ, through whose wounds we are healed.

May we live lives that reflect your healing grace, bringing hope and comfort to others, and shine the light from within to without for all to see, and may we all be a testimony and witness to Your great glory and mercy and love, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Scripture to Meditate Upon:

Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV) 

 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is
easy, and my burden is light.”

Blessing:

May the healing grace of God enfold you and bring peace to your
heart. May you rest in His love and find renewal for your spirit. May you be blessed with the assurance that God’s healing hand is
always upon you, guiding you with His everlasting love.

God Bless you all~

Jesus Healing Hands

DEAR GOD: Your Love Is Merciful & Gracious

by // // No Comments

Encountering God's Mercy - Strengthen My Heart

Psalm 103:8 (ESV): “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”

Commentary

This verse captures the very heart of God’s character, emphasizing His mercy, grace, patience, and boundless love. Unlike human nature, which can be quick to anger and slow to forgive, God’s nature is fundamentally different. He offers us grace when we don’t deserve it, mercy when we falter, and steadfast love that remains constant regardless of our actions. This contrast underscores the divine nature of God’s love compared to human frailty.

Reflective Questions:

  • How have you experienced God’s mercy and grace in your life?

  • In what ways can you practice being slow to anger and abounding in love in your daily interactions?

  • Reflect on a time when you felt undeserving of forgiveness. How does understanding God’s nature affect your perspective?

Supporting Scriptures:

  1. Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV): “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

    • This reinforces the idea that God’s mercies are renewed daily, a testament to His unwavering love.

  2. James 1:19 (ESV): “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”

    • Encourages us to emulate God’s patience and grace in our own lives.

Moral Takeaways:

  • Patience and Forgiveness: Just as God is slow to anger, we should strive to practice patience and forgiveness in our interactions with others.

  • Abounding Love: The concept of “abounding” love suggests love that overflows beyond measure. In our relationships, we should aim to love generously, not holding back.

Prayer:

“Dear LORD-Heavenly Father, we are in awe of your endless mercy and grace. Thank you for being slow to anger and rich in love. Teach us to reflect these qualities in our daily lives. Help us to be patient, forgiving, and overflowing with love towards others. May our actions be a reflection of your divine nature. In Jesus name,  Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

1 John 4:19 (ESV): “We love because he first loved us.”

Take some time today to meditate on this verse and consider how God’s love
empowers us to love others. Remember God is good – all the time God is good! And His mercy is unending. This video below is a good example of how great He is! Enjoy!

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Psalms – My Emotions Surge As I Read This Book~

by // // No Comments

Psalm 111:2 Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all ...

 

The Book of Psalms is a profound collection of songs and prayers that capture the full spectrum of human emotion and experience. From the heights of joy to the depths of despair, the Psalms offer a raw and honest dialogue with God. They remind us of His unwavering love and protection, and they reveal the heart of King David, a man after God’s own heart.

Reflection on the Psalms

The Psalms are a testament to God’s enduring love and faithfulness. In Psalm 23, David beautifully expresses his trust in God’s guidance and care:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:1-3, ESV).

This imagery of God as a shepherd highlights His role as a protector and provider. David’s confidence in God’s protection is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms. In Psalm 91, we see a powerful declaration of God’s safeguarding presence:

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust’” (Psalm 91:1-2, ESV).

King David’s Heart for God

David’s heart for God is evident in his psalms of praise and worship. Despite his flaws and failures, David’s deep love for God shines through. In Psalm 63, he writes:

“O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Psalm 63:1, ESV).

David’s longing for God is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking a close, personal relationship with our Creator.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God’s protection and provision in my life?
  2. In what ways can I express my love and gratitude to God daily?
  3. How can I seek God more earnestly, as David did, in my times of need and abundance?

Moral Takeaways

  • Trust in God’s Protection: Just as David trusted God to be his shepherd and fortress, we too can rely on God’s protection in every aspect of our lives.
  • Seek God Earnestly: David’s psalms encourage us to seek God with all our hearts, especially in times of trouble.
  • Express Gratitude: Regularly expressing our gratitude to God helps us to remain humble and aware of His blessings.

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
  • Psalm 121:1-2: “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
  • Psalm 34:8: “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!”

A Powerful Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and praise. Thank You for being our shepherd, our refuge, and our fortress. Just as David trusted in Your protection and sought You earnestly, help us to do the same. Strengthen our faith and draw us closer to You each day. May we always find comfort in Your presence and guidance in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Psalm to Ponder

Psalm 121:7-8 (ESV): “The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”

May the Psalms be a blessing to you, reminding you of God’s constant care and protection.

God Bless You All~

 

DEAR GOD: I Know You Are God~

by // // No Comments

Be Still and Know That I Am God Psalm 46:10 KJV Calm Ocean | Etsy

“Be Still, and Know That I Am God”

Historical Context and Meaning

Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” is a powerful verse that has resonated with believers for centuries. Historically, this verse was written during a time of turmoil and conflict for the Israelites. The psalmist, likely inspired by the Holy Spirit, penned these words to remind the people of God’s sovereignty and power amidst chaos. The command to “be still” was not merely a call to physical stillness but a deeper invitation to trust and surrender to God’s control.

In ancient times, the Israelites faced numerous threats from surrounding nations. This verse served as a divine reassurance that God was their protector and that His plans would prevail despite the apparent dangers. The phrase “know that I am God” emphasized God’s omnipotence and His ultimate authority over all creation.

Modern Interpretation

Today, Psalm 46:10 continues to offer comfort and guidance. In our fast-paced, often turbulent world, the call to “be still” is more relevant than ever. It invites us to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s presence in our lives. This stillness is not about inactivity but about finding peace and clarity in God’s sovereignty.

Modern believers can draw strength from this verse, knowing that God remains unchanging and ever-present. Whether facing personal struggles, global crises, or everyday stress, the assurance that God is in control provides a profound sense of peace.

Supporting Scripture

  • Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Reflective Questions

  1. What areas of your life are you struggling to surrender to God’s control?
  2. How can you incorporate moments of stillness into your daily routine to better recognize God’s presence?
  3. In what ways has God shown His sovereignty and faithfulness in your past experiences?

Moral Takeaway

The moral takeaway from Psalm 46:10 is the importance of trust and surrender. In a world that often values self-reliance and control, this verse reminds us that true peace comes from acknowledging God’s authority and resting in His promises. By being still and recognizing God’s power, we can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and serenity.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and strength. Help us to be still and know that You are God, especially in times of uncertainty and fear. Grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding and the faith to trust in Your perfect plan. May we always remember that You are in control and that Your love for us is unwavering. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Mainstay & Deliverer~

by // // No Comments

The Power of Prayer to Deliver You from Fear (Psalm 34:4) - Your Daily ...

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” – Psalm 34:4 (ESV)

This verse from Psalm 34 is a profound reminder of God’s faithfulness and His readiness to respond to our cries for help. It speaks to the intimate relationship we can have with the Lord, where our fears and anxieties are met with His comforting presence and deliverance.

Supporting Scripture

  • Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  1. God’s Readiness to Listen: The verse reassures us that God is always ready to listen to our prayers. When we seek Him earnestly, He responds. This is a testament to His loving nature and His desire for a personal relationship with us.
  2. Deliverance from Fear: Fear is a common human experience, but this verse promises that God can deliver us from all our fears. This deliverance might not always mean the removal of the situation causing fear, but it often means the provision of peace and strength to face it.
  3. Trust in God’s Timing: Sometimes, the answer to our prayers might not come immediately. Trusting in God’s timing is crucial, as His plans are always for our good, even when we cannot see it.

Reflective Questions

  • How often do I seek the Lord in my times of fear and anxiety?
  • Do I trust that God hears my prayers and will answer them in His perfect timing?
  • In what ways have I experienced God’s deliverance from my fears in the past?

Pertaining to Us Today

As Christians today, we face numerous fears and anxieties, whether they are related to health, relationships, or the future. Psalm 34:4 encourages us to turn to God with these fears, trusting that He will hear and deliver us. This verse is a call to deepen our prayer life and to rely on God’s promises.

In the Bible, we see many examples of individuals who sought the Lord and were delivered from their fears. David, who wrote this Psalm, faced many dangers and uncertainties, yet he consistently turned to God for help. His life is a testament to the power of seeking God and finding deliverance.

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness and Your promise to hear us when we call out to You. We bring before You our fears and anxieties, trusting that You will deliver us and grant us peace. Help us to seek You earnestly and to trust in Your perfect timing. Strengthen our faith and remind us of Your constant presence in our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Matthew 11:28 (ESV): “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Blessing

 ‘May the LORD’s Presence bring you comfort and offer solace and strength in all you endeavor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God Bless you~

You have always put a wall of protection around him…take away ...

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Unparalleled & My Everything~

by // // No Comments

Isaiah 25:1, New King James Version (NKJV) | Bible apps, Psalms, Words

In Isaiah 43:11-12, the Lord declares His unique and unparalleled sovereignty: “I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no Saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore, ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.”

This powerful proclamation reminds us of God’s exclusive role as our Savior and Redeemer. It is a call to recognize His supreme authority and to bear witness to His mighty works. God’s plan and His Omnipotent Power is for all of those who want to “tap into it” by being a follower and believing in His Word and His ways. Our choices in life should be culminative in the overall process of what where when and how we do things. It should incorporate a greater dependence, or more aptly, a full dependence of the LORD. 

As we reflect upon His Word and promises, we grow deeper in our roots, becoming more engrafted with Him each day. Our spiritual walk becomes heightened, and we grow closer to the LORD. In so doing, the enemy flees from us. We have the authority given to us in the name of JESUS to thwart the fiery darts in Jesus’ name.

Engaging in an intimate relationship with the LORD not only helps us in our choices and tasks of life itself, but it invariably will bring peace and joy into our hearts irrespective of what we are facing.

The devastation of the recent hurricane Helene and the aftermath is heartbreaking and surreal. So much pain, suffering and angst. Lives lost, and people incapacitated in functioning, because they’ve lost so much.

May God and His Sovereignty and Omnipotence and great power and glory shine over them now, as He heals their land, and their hearts, and their grieving loss.

May His Word and promises bring hope, light and healing to you all.

I pray this reflection on God’s word, peace and promises will bring you comfort during this horrific and disturbing period in your lives. And may the LORD Jehovah Jireh bring laborers, relief workers, and everything that you need during this time, to piece together your broken hearts, and lives due to Helene. 

Moral Thoughts and Reflective Questions

  1. Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty: In a world filled with distractions and false idols, it is crucial to remember that there is no Savior besides the LORD. How often do we place our trust in worldly things instead of God? Reflect on areas in your life where you might be relying on something other than God for your security and salvation.
  2. Witnessing God’s Works: As believers, we are called to be witnesses of God’s saving power. How can we share our testimonies of God’s faithfulness with others? Consider ways you can actively testify to God’s goodness in your daily interactions.
  3. Living in a Wicked World: The world around us often promotes values that are contrary to God’s teachings. How can we remain steadfast in our faith and live righteously amidst such influences? Reflect on the importance of staying rooted in Scripture and prayer to navigate the challenges of a sinful world.

Insightful Thinking for Christians Today

  • Trust in God’s Plan: Trusting in God’s plan requires faith, especially when we face trials and uncertainties. Remember that God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Reflect on how you can surrender your worries and anxieties to Him, trusting that He is in control.
  • Perseverance in Faith: In times of difficulty, it is easy to lose heart. However, we are encouraged to persevere, knowing that our trials produce endurance and strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4). How can you cultivate a spirit of perseverance in your spiritual journey?
  • Hope in God’s Promises: God’s promises are a source of hope and encouragement. Reflect on His promises in Scripture and how they can uplift you during challenging times. For instance, Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future.

Supportive Scriptures  

  • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Prayer

 “LORD- You alone are our Savior, and beside You, there is no other. Help us to trust in Your sovereign plan and to witness Your mighty works in our lives. Strengthen our faith, especially in times of trial, and guide us to live righteously in a world that often strays from Your truth. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may be bold witnesses of Your grace and mercy. We ask for Your peace to calm our anxieties and Your wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder and Meditate Upon

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Blessing 

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. May you walk in the assurance of His love and the strength of His promises, now and always. In Jesus name, Amen.”

God Bless you all~

August 25, 2022 | CBCPNews

DEAR GOD: Seek You In All I Do – Every Day & Beyond~

by // // No Comments

Homepage - Seeking God

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

Psalm 63:1

Psalm 63:1 is a heartfelt expression of longing and devotion to God. David, the psalmist, finds himself in a barren wilderness, both physically and spiritually. Despite his dire circumstances, he seeks God earnestly, recognizing that only God can quench his deep spiritual thirst.

Moral Takeaways:

  1. Seek God Earnestly: Just as David sought God early and earnestly, we too should prioritize our relationship with God, especially in times of need.
  2. Spiritual Thirst: Our souls have a deep need for God, much like our bodies need water. Recognizing this need can lead us to a more fulfilling spiritual life.
  3. Dependence on God: In our most challenging times, acknowledging our dependence on God can bring us comfort and strength.

Moral Thoughts:

  • In moments of spiritual dryness, turning to God can provide the refreshment and renewal we need.
  • Our longing for God should be as intense as our physical needs, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our spiritual lives.

Reflective Questions:

  1. When was the last time you earnestly sought God in prayer or worship?
  2. How do you recognize and address your spiritual thirst?
  3. In what ways can you prioritize your relationship with God in your daily life?

Supportive Scriptures (ESV):

  • Matthew 5:6: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
  • John 4:14: “But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
  • Isaiah 55:1: “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Prayer

 “LORD- we come before You with hearts that long for Your presence. Just as David sought You in the wilderness, we seek You in our times of need. Quench our spiritual thirst and fill us with Your living water. Help us to prioritize our relationship with You and to seek You earnestly every day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Psalm 42:1 (ESV): “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.”

Blessing

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen.

God Bless you all~

 

How To Seek God's Presence - leahleedesigns

DEAR GOD: My Rock, My Refuge, My Everything~

by // // No Comments

Jesus Is Our Rock - Choral Celebration - Midway Baptist ChurchReflection and Commentary on Isaiah 26:4

“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” – Isaiah 26:4 (ESV)

This verse from Isaiah is a profound reminder of the unwavering strength and stability that God provides. In a world where change is constant and uncertainty often looms, this scripture calls Christians to place their trust in the Lord, who is described as an “everlasting rock.” This metaphor signifies God’s unchanging nature and His ability to provide a firm foundation for our lives.

For Christians today, this verse encourages us to lean on God not just in moments of crisis but continually, recognizing that His strength is eternal and His support is unwavering. It speaks to the moral view that faith in God should be steadfast and enduring, regardless of the circumstances we face. Trusting in God means believing in His promises and His timing, even when we cannot see the path ahead clearly.

Moral Views and Takeaways

  1. Steadfast Faith: Trusting in God requires a steadfast faith that does not waver with life’s ups and downs. It is about maintaining our belief in His goodness and sovereignty.
  2. Dependence on God: This verse teaches us the importance of depending on God rather than our own understanding or strength. It is a call to humility and surrender.
  3. Eternal Perspective: Recognizing God as an “everlasting rock” shifts our perspective from the temporary to the eternal. It reminds us that God’s plans and purposes transcend our immediate circumstances.

Reflective Questions

  1. In what areas of my life do I struggle to trust God completely?
  2. How can I cultivate a more steadfast faith in my daily walk with God?
  3. What does it mean for me personally to see God as my “everlasting rock”?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 18:2: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

 Prayer

LORD, Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts filled with love and thanks for Your unwavering strength and Eternal Presence. We thank You for being our everlasting Rock, a firm foundation in times of trouble and peace. Lord, help us to trust in You completely, to lean not on our own understanding but to acknowledge You in all our ways. Strengthen our faith, especially in moments of doubt and fear. We lift up our world to You, asking for Your peace to reign in hearts and all nations. Guide us, protect us, and fill us with Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Blessing  

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. Trust in the Lord always, for He is your everlasting rock.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God Bless you all~

Jesus Our Rock

« Older posts