love of God

DEAR GOD: I’m In Your Hands & You Are In Control~

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LifeNotes Encouragement: It's in God's Hands

Experiencing God and His Awesome Power and Presence is overwhelming, and at times hard to put into words.

His Presence and providence is an existence that brings joy and rewards beyond comprehension. Living in confidence of His love and promises affords us the opportunity to exhibit behavior that reflects His light and love. And when we align with His Word and His commandments, we are capable and able to do all things through “Christ” as stated in Philippians 4:13. 

When we humbly seek His face in all we do – He is there and guides us in all of our paths. I’ve witnessed countless people who are lost and miserable, and although they are of different backgrounds, races, or status – they all shared one thing – they didn’t have a relationship with Christ.  They didn’t know Him, His voice, His ways – His doctrine – His Word!  It rips my heart to shreds when I see this – and have many times over.  So, I can only imagine what it does to our LORD above!

I’ve also been witness to those who came to the LORD after being broken, lost – in a muddle of darkness – and desperate – and hopeless.  Yet, when they make the turn and come to the LORD in humility seeking His love – He is always there waiting. And the transformation in their lives becomes glaringly apparent as the LIGHT is turned on!

  • Are you in the dark?
  • Do you feel lost?
  • Are you looking for help and hope?

When you connect to the LORD and His Spirit it is an amazing feeling. It’s as if the suffocation of the world is finally released and you can breathe!

When you live for Him in all you do – things happen – and continue to happen in your life. For one thing you can handle adversity more readily – and able to sustain it with the LORD in your corner. He will hold you up with His right hand of righteousness.

Isaiah 41:10
He will guide all of your paths when you trust in Him exclusively and fully (Proverbs 3:5-8). He will bring health to your bones and joy to your spirit and life.
He cares for you – and cares about you. Always- no matter what.

I have witnessed so many miraculous recoveries with my patients in nursing homes.
And with friends and neighbors. Me -included!

Things that doctors couldn’t understand and had them scratching their heads staring with incredulous faces at the results of tests that proved them all wrong.

God is in control, and when others are ready to pull the covers over your head and give up on you – God says, “ NO WAY – My Beloved has more things to do.”  Science and diagnostic tests were pointing to a grim report – but then God’s hand of grace and mercy and love wiped it all away! Hello Life!

That is who God is!
Merciful, faithful, loving, compassionate and Omnipotent!
Strong – in control- and always wants what is best for us!

For those who want to know Him and experience the joy of being with Him in all your days on earth and beyond, when you are called “home” for eternity – it’s never too late.

He is waiting for you – always is – and always will be.

Once you accept Him and His Holy Spirit comes to dwell within you – life will NEVER be the same again. Never!

Don’t believe me – do it for yourself!
Then readily accept the single greatest gift that anyone can ever receive in this life and beyond!
Salvation and love of Christ!
He only wants your love in return – what a deal- what a gift- what an amazing King of kings and LORD of lords!

Isaiah 53:5ESV –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.

His book of Love the Bible- is waiting – may I suggest reading any of the Gospels to start if you haven’t read the Word. Gospel of John and Matthew are good places to begin.

Brothers and Sisters – start living the life God intended you to live – and open your heart and accept Him in – then begin to BREATHE in a way you never have before!

God Bless You All~

Here is a prayer you can pray to accept Him and follow Him.

“I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness.
I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died
for my sin and that you raised Him to life.
I want to trust Him as my Savior and follow Him as Lord,
from this day forward. Father, please guide my life
and help me to do your will.
I accept Jesus as my LORD and savior.

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DEAR GOD: In Faith We Resist Evil & Draw Closer To You~

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Best How To Draw Closer To God of the decade Learn more here ... 
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”
1 Peter 5:8-9 (KJV)

This verse from 1 Peter is a powerful exhortation to Christians, urging them to remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith. The imagery of the devil as a roaring lion prowling for prey is striking and serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual battle that believers face.

Meaning Then
In the early Christian era, the followers of Christ faced intense persecution and opposition. Peter’s warning was a call to be alert and to remain steadfast in their faith despite the external pressures and the internal temptations that sought to devour their spiritual resolve. The early Christians knew the reality of suffering for their faith and the constant threat of spiritual attack. Peter’s words provided them with a strategy for enduring these trials: sobriety, vigilance, and steadfast faith.

Meaning Today
In contemporary times, the spiritual battle continues. While the nature of the challenges may differ, the adversary remains the same. Modern Christians face a myriad of distractions and temptations that can lead them away from their faith. The call to be sober and vigilant is as relevant today as it was then. It serves as a reminder to remain clear-minded and watchful, recognizing that spiritual warfare is a reality. By resisting the devil and standing firm in faith, Christians can overcome the adversities they face.

The Unchanging Roots of Christianity
The core principles of Christianity—faith, vigilance, and community—remain unchanged across generations. The early Christians’ experiences of persecution and spiritual struggle resonate with the struggles faced by believers today. The message of 1 Peter 5:8-9 emphasizes the importance of a steadfast faith that transcends time. It reminds us that we are part of a larger community of believers, both past and present, who endure and overcome trials through faith in Christ.

  • Moral Takeaways
    Vigilance: Be aware of the spiritual dangers and remain alert to the influences that can lead you astray.
  • Steadfast Faith: Resist temptations and challenges by grounding yourself in faith.
  • Community Support: Recognize that you are not alone; your struggles are shared by believers worldwide.
  • Reflective Questions
    How can I be more vigilant in my daily life to recognize spiritual threats?
  • In what ways can I strengthen my faith to resist temptations and adversities?
  • How can I support and encourage my fellow believers who are facing similar struggles?

Supporting Scriptures  
Ephesians 6:11-12: “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

James 4:7: “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Prayer
Heavenly Father, We thank You for Your Word that guides and strengthens us. Help us to be sober and vigilant, recognizing the spiritual battles we face. Grant us the courage and faith to resist the devil and stand firm in our beliefs. Surround us with a community of fellow believers who support and encourage us in our walk with You. May we find strength in knowing that we are not alone and that Your love and protection are with us always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Psalm 121:7-8 (NKJV): “The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s peace and protection surround you, guiding you in vigilance and steadfast faith. Trust in His unfailing love and find strength in His presence.

God Bless You All~

 

10 Powerful Ways to Draw Near to God – ConnectUS

DEAR GOD: I Live For YOU & You Live In Me~

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Christ Lives In Me Galatians 2:20 - Quotes

Commentary on Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

This verse encapsulates the essence of the Christian life—a profound transformation where the old self is crucified with Christ, and a new life begins with Him at the center. Paul’s declaration reveals a deep, personal identification with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He speaks of a radical shift from living for self to living by faith in the Son of God.

Heartfelt Christian Views: Then and Now

Then: In the early days of Christianity, this verse served as a revolutionary concept. The early Christians faced persecution and hardships, and Paul’s words encouraged them to find strength and identity in Christ. The idea of being crucified with Christ meant that their old lives, with all their sins and failures, were put to death. It was a call to live a new life empowered by the presence of Christ within them.

Now: Today, this verse continues to inspire Christians to live a life surrendered to Christ. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, Galatians 2:20 reminds us that our true identity and purpose are found in Christ. It calls us to let go of our ego and self-centeredness and to embrace a life of faith and devotion to Jesus. This transformation is not just a one-time event but a daily walk of faith, continually allowing Christ to live through us.

Moral Takeaways

Identity in Christ: Our identity is rooted in Christ, not in our achievements or failures. We are new creations in Him.

Self-Surrender: True Christian living involves surrendering our will and desires to Christ, allowing Him to guide our actions and decisions.

Faith in Action: Living by faith means trusting in Jesus’ love and sacrifice, letting His love motivate and direct our lives.

  • Reflective Questions
    In what areas of my life do I need to surrender more fully to Christ?
  • How can I daily remind myself of my identity in Christ and live out that reality?
  • What actions can I take to demonstrate my faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)

2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Romans 6:6: “Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.”

Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the transformative power of Your Word and the life-changing sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Help us to truly understand and embrace our identity in Him. May we live by faith, allowing Christ to live through us, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions. Strengthen us to surrender our lives to Your will and to trust in Your love and grace. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may reflect Your love to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder
John 15:5 (NKJV): “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

Blessing
May the presence of Christ fill your heart with peace and guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day for His glory –

God Bless You All~

Morning Prayer: Fri, 19 August – Proverbs 3:5-6; Galatians 2:19-20 ...

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Spirit In Your Believers~

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Holy Mass images...: HOLY SPIRIT

 

  1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (KJV)
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

These powerful verses, penned by the Apostle Paul, remind us of the profound truth that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit. This concept was revolutionary to the Corinthians, who lived in a society where the body was often misused and defiled. Paul emphasizes that as believers, we are not our own; we have been bought with a price—the precious blood of Jesus Christ. This truth calls us to live lives of holiness, honoring God with our bodies and spirits.

Meaning Then and Now
Then: In the first-century Corinthian context, these verses were a stark reminder of the need for sexual purity and respect for one’s body. Corinth was known for its immorality, and the concept of the body being a temple of the Holy Spirit was a radical shift in thinking. Paul wanted the Corinthians to understand that their bodies were not their own to misuse but were sacred, set apart for God’s purposes. They had been redeemed at a great cost, and this redemption called for a life that reflected God’s holiness.

Today: For Christians today, these verses continue to resonate deeply. In a world where the body is often objectified and misused, the call to honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit is a timely reminder. It challenges us to live with integrity, purity, and a sense of responsibility toward our bodies. Recognizing that we are bought with a price, we are urged to glorify God in all aspects of our lives—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Moral Takeaways
Holiness and Purity: Our bodies are sacred and should be treated with respect and purity, reflecting the holiness of God.

Stewardship: We are stewards of our bodies, called to care for them and use them in ways that honor God.

Identity in Christ: Our worth and identity come from being God’s temple, redeemed by the sacrifice of Jesus.

Reflective Questions
How can I honor God with my body and spirit in my daily life?

In what ways can I be a better steward of the body God has entrusted to me?

How does understanding that I am bought with a price change my perspective on my actions and decisions?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)
Romans 12:1 (NKJV): “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV): “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

1 Peter 1:18-19 (NKJV): “Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Prayer
“LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Help us to honor our bodies as Your temples, living lives of holiness and purity. Remind us daily of the great price paid for our redemption and guide us to glorify You in all that we do. Strengthen our commitment to live as faithful stewards of the bodies and lives You have entrusted to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s presence fill your heart with peace and His Spirit guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day honoring Him in body and spirit.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: My Heart Is Steadfast In You & Christ~

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Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the ...

 

May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.
2 Thessalonians 3:5 ESV

 

The Steadfastness of Christ

Christ’s steadfastness is another cornerstone of our faith. His unwavering commitment to God’s will, even in the face of immense suffering and sacrifice, serves as a model for us. Steadfastness in Christ is about perseverance, faithfulness, and enduring hope. It calls us to remain faithful to our calling, even when the journey is difficult, and to trust in God’s promises.

In our contemporary world, where instant gratification and fleeting commitments are the norms, the steadfastness of Christ offers a powerful counter-narrative. It invites us to cultivate resilience, patience, and an enduring trust in God’s faithfulness.

Reflective Questions
How can I allow God’s love to shape my daily interactions and decisions?

In what ways can I cultivate the steadfastness of Christ in my own life, especially during challenging times?

How do I balance the love of God and the steadfastness of Christ in my spiritual journey?

Moral Takeaways
Deepening Relationship with God: Prioritize your relationship with God, allowing His love and Christ’s steadfastness to guide your actions.

Embodying Divine Love: Reflect God’s unconditional love in your relationships, showing grace and compassion to others.

Perseverance in Faith: Emulate Christ’s steadfastness, remaining faithful to God’s calling even in the face of adversity.

Supporting Scriptures (ESV)
Romans 8:38-39: “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Hebrews 12:1-2: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

John 15:9-10: “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.”

Prayer
“LORD-we thank You for Your boundless love and the steadfast example of Jesus Christ. Direct our hearts to dwell deeply in Your love and to follow Christ’s unwavering commitment to Your will. Help us to embody Your love in our daily lives and to remain steadfast in our faith, even in challenging times. Strengthen us to be reflections of Your grace and truth in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
Philippians 1:6 (ESV): “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s love and steadfastness guide your heart, enriching your faith and strengthening your walk with Him. Trust in His promises and find peace in His unending grace…

God Bless You All~

1 Peter 5:2-25, Steadfast - Toward a Sane Faith - Kevin Ruffcorn Ministries

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Always Going Before Me To Guide Me – Thank You!~

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God Goes Before You - The Light of Christ Journey

 

  “I Am Your LORD God, and I go before you.”

This powerful declaration from God, I am Your LORD God, and I go before you,” is a profound reminder of His Sovereignty and His intimate involvement in our lives. It echoes throughout scripture, emphasizing that God not only leads us but also prepares the way ahead of us. This assurance brings immense comfort and encourages unwavering trust in His guidance and protection.

In Ancient times, God’s people often faced daunting challenge and uncertain futures. The Israelites, for instance, wandered in the wilderness for forty years, yet God went before them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). This tangible Presence of God assured them of His continual guidance and provision, even in the most trying circumstances.

Reflective Questions

  • How do I seek God’s guidance in my daily life?
  • In what ways do I trust that God is going before me, especially in uncertain times?
  • How can I deepen my relationship with God to better discern His leading and prepare my path?

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Recognize that God is in control and that He goes before us, clearing obstacles and making a way for us.

Dependence on God: Develop a habit of seeking God’s guidance in every aspect of life, knowing that He prepares and leads us.

Strength in Uncertainty: Find peace in the assurance that we are never alone; God is always ahead of us, guiding our steps.

Supporting Scriptures

Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV)
It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake  you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

Isaiah 45:2 (ESV)
I will go before you and level the exalted places, I will break in pieces the doors of bronze and cut through the bars of Iron.

 Psalm 138:5 (ESV)
You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.

Christianity Today vs. Then

In ancient times God’s presence was often manifested in physical signs, like the cloud and fire that led the Israelites. Today we may not see such physical manifestations, but God’s Presence and Guidance are no less real. Through the Holy Spirit, God goes before us, guiding our decisions and providing wisdom and comfort. The principles of trusting in God’s Sovereignty, seeking His guidance and finding strength in His Presence remain as vital now as they were then.

Prayer

LORD-thank You for Your unwavering Presence and guidance in our lives, help us to trust that You always go before us, preparing the way and clearing obstacles, grant us the wisdom to seek Your guidance in all we do and the faith to follow where you lead, may Your Peace fill our hearts, knowing that you are with us, guiding us every step of the way, and lighting our path, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV):

 “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.”

Blessing

May the LORD’s Presence and Guidance be with you always. Trust in Him – and know He goes before you preparing the way, the light, truth and life!

 God Bless You All~

 

What an encouragement to know that God is going before you. He is ...

 

DEAR GOD: Help Me Choose My Words With Wisdom~

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“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” James 1:5 (ESV)

James 1:5 is a profound reminder of God’s boundless generosity and His desire to guide us. This verse reassures us that wisdom is not something we have to attain on our own. It is a gift from
God, readily available to anyone who seeks it with a sincere heart. 

The beauty of this promise lies in its simplicity and inclusiveness—anyone can ask, and God will give generously, without holding our past mistakes or
shortcomings against us.

In our daily lives, we often face situations that leave us feeling uncertain and in need of guidance In those moments, this verse encourages us to turn to God, the source of all wisdom. It’s a powerful invitation to lean on His understanding rather than our own. This act of seeking God’s
wisdom is not just about gaining knowledge; it’s about building a deeper relationship
with Him, trusting in His perfect plan, and allowing His wisdom to shape our decisions
and actions.

Moral Takeaways

  1. Seek God’s Guidance: Always turn to God first when in need of wisdom. 

  2. He is generous and ready to provide.

  3. Trust in His Provision: Have faith that God will give you the wisdom you need,
    without judgment.

  4. Build a Relationship with God: Use your quest for wisdom as an opportunity to
    grow closer to God, relying on His infinite understanding.

Reflective Questions

  • In what areas of my life do I need God’s wisdom the most?

  • How can I be more intentional about seeking God’s guidance daily?

  • What changes can I make to deepen my relationship with God as I seek His wisdom?

Supporting Scriptures

Proverbs 2:6 (ESV): “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge
and understanding.”

Affirms that wisdom and understanding come directly from the Lord.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “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.”

Encourages us to trust in God’s guidance rather than our own understanding.

Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV):”Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and
hidden things that you have not known.”

Emphasizes God’s willingness to reveal wisdom and knowledge when we seek Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your promise to give us wisdom generously when we ask. Help us to remember to seek Your guidance in every situation, trusting that You will provide the
understanding we need. Draw us closer to You as we seek Your wisdom, and help us to grow in
our faith and reliance on You. May our lives be a reflection of Your wisdom and love. In Jesus’
name, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 4:7 (ESV): “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get,
get insight.”

Blessing

May the Lord’s wisdom fill your heart and guide your steps.
Trust in His infinite understanding
and know that He is always with you,
offering guidance and love. 

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: We Are Fully Delivered From All Fears- Amen!~

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Delivered From All My Fears - Psalm 34:4 - A Clay Jar

Psalm 34:4 (ESV)

“I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”

Psalm 34:4 is a beautiful testament to God’s faithfulness and His readiness to respond to those
who earnestly seek Him. This verse reflects a profound personal experience with the Lord,
an intimate encounter that transforms fear into peace. Seeking the Lord is not just a one-time event but a daily journey of placing our trust in Him and recognizing His presence in every aspect of our lives.

To seek the Lord daily is to embark on a spiritual journey that encompasses prayer, meditation,
reading Scripture, and worship. It’s about allowing God into the very fabric of our existence and acknowledging His sovereignty over all our concerns.

The promise in this verse is clear: when we seek God earnestly, He responds. 

He doesn’t just listen; He acts, delivering us from the fears that seek to paralyze us.

In Christianity, seeking the Lord is a practice rooted in faith and love.

It’s an acknowledgment of our dependence on Him and a demonstration of our trust in
His wisdom and power.

Seeking is active, not passive; it involves pursuing God’s presence with a heart full of love and
reverence.

This seeking transforms our relationship with Him from one of distant
acknowledgement to intimate communion.

Reflective Questions

  • How am I actively seeking the Lord in my daily life?

  • What fears do I need to bring before God, trusting in His deliverance?

  • How has God answered me in the past when I sought Him earnestly?

Supporting Scriptures

  • Jeremiah 29:13 (ESV): “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all
    your heart.”

    • Emphasizes the promise of finding God when we seek Him with sincerity.

  • Matthew 7:7 (ESV): “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find;
    knock, and it will be opened to you.”

    • Encourages persistent seeking and the assurance of God’s response.

  • 1 Chronicles 16:11 (ESV): “Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence
    continually!”

    • Calls us to a continual, ongoing pursuit of God’s presence and strength.

Moral Takeaways

  • Active Seeking: Cultivate a daily habit of seeking God’s presence through prayer,
    Scripture, and worship.

  • Trust in God’s Deliverance: Place your fears and concerns before the Lord, trusting in His power to deliver and provide peace.

  • Intimate Relationship: Deepen your relationship with God by making Him a central
    part of your daily life, acknowledging His presence and guidance.

Prayer

“LORD -Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts eager to seek Your Presence. Help us to actively pursue You daily, to bring our fears and concerns before You, trusting in Your deliverance. Thank You for Your faithfulness in answering us and providing peace that surpasses all understanding. Guide us in our journey of faith, deepening our relationship with You and transforming our lives with Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Isaiah 55:6 (ESV): “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near.”

Blessing

May your heart be filled with the joy and peace that comes from seeking the Lord daily.
As you pursue Him with all your heart, may He answer you and deliver you from all your fears,
filling your life with His presence and grace.

Stay strong in your faith, and always remember, God is with you every step of the way.

DEAR GOD: You Are My Delight All The Day Long~

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The Lord's Delight

  Psalm 37:4 (KJV)

“Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of
thine heart.”

This verse is a beautiful invitation to find our deepest joy and satisfaction in our relationship
with the Lord. When we truly delight in God, we align our hearts with His will. Delighting in the Lord means finding pleasure, joy, and fulfillment in His presence, His Word, and His ways. It
means prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else and letting our hearts be transformed by His love and grace.

The promise that follows is profound: “He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” This doesn’t mean that God becomes a wish granting entity for our every whim. Rather, it suggests that when we delight in Him, our desires become shaped by His. Our hearts begin to yearn for what pleases Him, and our prayers align with His perfect will. In this divine alignment, our desires are fulfilled because they resonate with God’s plans and purposes for our lives.

Supportive Scriptures

  • Matthew 6:33 (ESV): “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all
    these things will be added to you.”

    • Emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God and
      His kingdom.

  • John 15:7 (ESV): “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you
    wish, and it will be done for you.”

    • Highlights the connection between abiding in Christ and receiving answered prayers.

  • Psalm 16:11 (ESV): “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

    • Reflects the joy and fulfillment found in God’s presence.

Reflective Questions

  • How do I currently delight in the Lord? Are there ways I can deepen my relationship
    with Him?

  • What desires do I have that may need to be aligned with God’s will?

  • How has God fulfilled the desires of my heart when I have sought Him first?

Moral Takeaway

The essence of Psalm 37:4 encourages us to find our deepest joy in the Lord. As we delight in
Him, our desires become aligned with His will, and we experience the fulfillment of those
desires. It teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God, trusting that He
knows what is best for us and will provide accordingly.

Closing Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts open to delight in Your presence. Help us to
find our joy and fulfillment in You above all else. Align our desires with Your will, and may our
hearts yearn for what pleases You. Thank You for the promise that as we delight in You, You will grant us the desires of our hearts. Guide us in our journey of faith, and let Your love transform us daily. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Isaiah 26:3 (ESV): “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he
trusts in you.”

Blessing

May your heart be filled with the joy and peace that comes from delighting in the Lord. As you
seek Him with all your heart, may He grant you the desires that align with His perfect will. Trust in His goodness and be blessed by His abundant love and grace. 

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Your Grace Is Sufficient & Appreciated~

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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 ...