Always there for His Own

In this day of technology and robotic overtures, isn’t it a welcome relief to have a 24/7 access line directly to the LORD?

It’s calming and self-assuring to know that He is always with us, no matter what the time, or the place, He is there. Lovingly watching over us, patiently seeing us through obstacles, dilemmas, and guiding us unto paths of righteousness. When we seek Him.

This bit of knowledge was glaringly apparent this morning, as I was attempting to get in touch with my insurance company, yearning to reach a “live voice”—which is obsolete these days—and after endless prompting instructions, the phone disconnected!  Yikes!   Hey! I was on hold with the prompting and music for over twenty minutes. Are you kidding me?  Seriously?

After a second cup of coffee, I laughed aloud.  Oh well, I’ll try again this afternoon. It was at that moment I smiled up at the LORD, and said, “My Father, thank You for never disconnecting me. I can always get a hold of you, 24/7. Thank You!” 

Blessed Assurance from His Word

The Bible is my number one “go to” in all things pertaining to LIFE, organization, understanding, and significance.  His Word is a powerful tool in this world, and a must have in ” my wardrobe” as I dress in the morning.  For to be clothed in His Word, the Gospel Armor, is to be prepared and undefeated in everything I do or attempt to endeavor.

His Promises

 Deuteronomy 31:6, Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; “He will never leave you nor forsake you.” 

When I read that unprecedented passage, it catapults me into “full blown peaceful mode” knowing He is here!  He is with me! That affirmation settles into my soul and encourages me to get on with whatever I have to do.

Reality Check

Can anyone of us stand up and say we have never been disappointed?  

Can anyone of us stand up and say, we have never had a broken heart?

Can anyone of us stand up and say, no one has ever shattered a dream by breaking a promise?

Can anyone of us fully trust someone knowing they will never let us down no matter how much they love us?

I’m thinking that the answer has to be “no” to at least one of those scenarios. Because after all, we are humans encased in flesh bodies, and prone to make errors, and break promises along the way, or let people down here and there, intentionally or otherwise.

But consider this, “Can you trust God above all else?” 

The answer should be an undeniable and emphatic YES!

Trusting in God might at times be challenging, when a decision turns out to be less than appealing, disappointing, or confusing.

Or a certain situation turns out to be unexpected.  But this is when “trusting” God becomes critical in the passage of life.  When we surrender to Him, knowing His will for us is the best option, even when the outcome isn’t what we’d have chosen for ourselves, is when our lives become solidified and saturated in His love. It’s quite frankly, when we experience spiritual growth.

Trusting Him, knowing He is there 24/7 for those of faith, is a “life-line” that inherently keeps on giving in ways that no one else can.

Proverbs 3:5-8

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean …  in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.  Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.  This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.”

Knowing that He is with us, and will make good on ALL OF HIS PROMISES, is one of the greatest joys in life!

The next time you’re waiting desperately for someone to respond to your needs, look up and take comfort knowing there is instant access to the Greatest of all time.  He is available, willing and able. And just waiting for you to connect to Him!

“Father, I thank You for Your untrammeled protection and love, there is none like You, may I be ever mindful of Your Word, Your promises, Your blood, in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

Deuteronomy 28:1-2 KJV

 And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:

Christians, or those of faith can sometimes get lost in preconceptions about God thereby influencing what we “think” we might “hear” from Him.  For an example, when we think of God as a perfectly wise and loving Counselor, (which is what He is!) we will most assuredly be open to His Word and His Promises.  Irrespective of the adversities or calamities we may be facing, we know that He will undeniably help us, when we believe and trust in our Rock.

On the other hand, some who may believe God is a vindictive Judge, might expect punishment on a daily basis, and perhaps relentlessly waiting for Him to extract due to our follies in harsh penalties.

Simply put, the depth of our relationship with the LORD, will be instrumental in how we “hear” Him.  When we approach Him, knowing we are serving a living God, and under the auspices of His grace, we are filled with assurance that He will “talk” to us. And we then “hear” what it is that He’s saying to us.  Even if they might not be exactly what we “want” to hear.  Nonetheless, His will not ours.

When we have an intimate close-knit relationship with Him, we will turn to Him for all matters concerning our lives, and believe everything He says, everything He promised, and every commandment He issued.

It comes down to this.

Do you know and love Him?

Have you judiciously applied all the foundations of His doctrine and His will for your life on a daily basis? 

You see, our personal view of the LORD has to remain accurate and perceived Biblically. By being fully acquainted with God, and His character, we will truly know who He is.

We will know Him as the God of love (1 John 4:8) who wants us to approach the throne of grace boldly (Hebrews 4:16). It is by knowing Him, we will grow closer to Him, and become embedded enabling our Spirit to take root, growing deeper and more profound.

The next time you think you “hear” what the LORD is telling you, make sure it isn’t some preconceived thought of your own mind, luring you and leading you to the wide path of the world.

Instead, follow the sage advice of 1 Thessalonians 5:21, and quickly test whatever you “hear” alongside the truth of Scripture.  It is only then that your barometer of Christianity, will register reality, which will let us abandon the shrill “fictitious” sounds of the world!

“Dear God, thank You for Your Word, which is an immovable anchor in my life, may I always hear Your voice through the noise of the world, and may I always apply Your Word in all aspects of my life, today, tomorrow and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.” 

In the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago…

Titus 1:2

We can confidently depend on our eternal King because He Himself is truth (John 14:6), and His promises are true. According to Titus 1:2, God cannot lie, and never makes a promise that He won’t keep. And He certainly has the power to keep His word, for “nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37).

His promises are manifest in His Being and His Word, which is to say, Jesus Christ who is the Living Word. When we are given to daily frustrations, or intermittent valleys of turbulence, we are subject to inherent emotional storms due to the circumstances. However, with His promises, and His Word, and most especially His love…we are assured guidance and a way to get “through” whatever it is we are battling.  He is the solitude of peace in which we can maneuver effortlessly, and the One who give us the ultimate strength in which we can then accomplish what it is we need to do.

His Word.

His Promises.

His Love.

As faithful followers and believers, we’re instructed many times in the Bible not to worry. Instead, “Be of good cheer, and be encouraged” for we know the LORD our God is near and will uphold us.

We are told to “be encouraged” numerous times in both OT and NT. We are told that God will never forsake us, and that He will love us through it all.

We’re encouraged by His Words, and promises, we are to seek God’s kingdom and therefore rely on Him for all of our needs. Ostensibly, the polar opposite of what the “world’s” philosophy is, which suggests we rely on “ourselves” and/or other individuals for security/wants/needs.

Rejecting the world’s ideology and seeking Him for everything, and anything, is a process of dutiful compliance to His commandments, Word, promises, and foundation of His love.

How blessed we are to know we serve a Living God that is aware of needs, and His provision in matters of all things in our Universe.

Rejoice, be exceedingly glad, and embrace Him. He provides for birds, flowers, and even more so for His beloved children.

How amazing is our God? 

How amazing that He is so in tune with His children.  He is aware of our needs and desires before we have any conscious awareness of what we ourselves are in need of.

Believe God, seek His kingdom, and rest in His peace which truly surpasses all human comprehension or understanding (Phil 4:7).

His promises are given, His Word is accurate and sustainable.  The choice then becomes yours.

Do you wish to be a part of an extended family of royalty?

Our Father, the King of kings waits patiently for your choice and   acceptance of Him, His promises, and His love.

The choice is rather obvious, wouldn’t you agree?

“Thank You for the promises which are apparent in Your Word, thank You for Your love, and grace which is in abundant supply in all our needs, and thank You for being so amazing in every way, may we always be in awe of Your Omnipotence and Sovereign power, and may we always seek Your kingdom today and forever, in Jesus name, Amen.” 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16 NIV

John 3:16 is the quintessential gem of all gems in terms of meaning and reality, and our inherent passage of certainty upon leaving this world, after following and believing, and accepting Jesus Christ, as our Lord and Savior.

God gave us a gift in His Son, the unblemished Lamb, so that we could be saved. We will be ensured of “Life Eternal” and not perish, that is to say…we won’t be destroyed, but live forever, thanks only to the LORD for the sacrifice of His Son.

The Gospel and Doctrine of Christ is in large a great responsibility to those of faith, presenting thoughts, and His words, to a lost and dying world.  Christianity is a reality, not an idea. We should be keenly aware of choices, and obedience to the LORD.

An invitation from the LORD to understand the grace of God in sending Jesus Christ, along with our obedience, love, and baptism in Christ is required to be saved from an eternal death.

The LORD warns us in Matthew 10:28— “And be not afraid of them that kill the body but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” 

But the joy of knowing Christ, and to be the recipient of such love and grace is beyond explanation, it’s a feeling of excitement and peace that bubbles deeply within our souls, along with a steadfast security in realizing we will live forever through Him, and Him alone.

His love and the invitation to accept Him in our heart and surrender to His will for our lives, is one of the greatest gifts we could ever have received. It is from the Father of lights. This isn’t through anything or anyone, other than our Father. He alone saves!

Do you know Him? If you don’t, please take the time to get to know the Greatest of all time, the One and only Great I Am, and the One and only who loves you more than anyone ever has or ever could.

Open your heart and accept His invitation.  It’ll be the most rewarding experience of your lifetime, Amen!

“Father, thank You for the Greatest gifts of my lifetime, Your Son, Your love, and the passage of Eternal Life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 

James 1:5

James’ message is quite clear. Trusting in the LORD’s wisdom as we journey through life, is a mainstay tool that He uses to measure and test our revered faith in Him, thereby enabling us to produce fruits of the Spirit; that is to say patience, and endurance which is essential to the growth of the Spirit.

We are to be reminded to stand unequivocally in the LORD, who bought and redeemed us with His most precious blood… and eventually honing us through our trials and tribulations, where we will emerge shiny as gold sharing in eternal rewards.

We as those of faith, wish to fulfil and finish the work that the LORD has given to us, while learning valuable lessons along life’s highway.  We will continue to prosper and grow in grace, while our knowledge will increase by the LORD, who presents this to us with His heart and mercy of love, and ultimately as a gift to His children.

When we submit and surrender to the will of the LORD, and His wisdom from above, we are solidifying the message from our Father, as He cultivates our hearts and spirit, that will remain unruffled by life’s adversities…but only if we stand strong in His word, and our belief and trust and in Christ.

There are those who have degrees in various subjects, some who even love to boast of them, unabashedly.  Now there is nothing wrong with earning degrees, after all…we need certain degrees for very important aspects in life overall.  For example, who would go to seek medical counsel from anyone other than a doctor?   And when in a hospital, the nurses holding your hand, or hovering over you caring for you, they need degrees for that correct?

However, there is none more essential to the soul, or vitally fulfilling to the heart, than receiving a degree in CHRIST and His word.

Each day is yet another day to delve into His word, His doctrine, His glory, and grasp each verse, each concept, each chapter in heights of expectation and fulfillment, in pleasing Him…and growing in our spirit.

The knowledge of His word is akin to a thousand degrees and more; the wisdom of His word, is akin to a thirst that can only be satiated by His living waters and love; to bring forth His message; is an honor that only those who are His sheep can fully comprehend.

Although I myself have made a career from the degrees that I earned in college, (sooooooooo long ago, and have since retired,) doing what I was called to do, working in the nursing home industry; there is one bit of knowledge and wisdom which supersedes my college degree, that’s the irrefutable knowledge and wisdom of His word!

Yes, that “degree” is priceless… which when coupled by an intimate relationship with our LORD, well my beloved sisters and brothers…. there are simply no words to describe the fundamental happiness of holding that precious degree in my heart! Hallelujah, praise God!

“Father, my God and King, thank You for wisdom from above, thank You for providing the tools of knowledge offering the opportunity for a degree in loving You, that will never cease, and for guiding me all the days of my life, before time began, during my time here on earth, and for future rewards of eternity with You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.

1 Corinthians 1:30

With 2021 coming to a close, it’s a welcome relief to some that the year is behind us.  Still others, may be looking forward to 2022, to bring miraculous changes for the world, or within their own scope of life.

And others are appreciative they’re in fact able to see another year come into place, thereby giving thanks for the grace of God for that opportunity.

Or…perhaps it’s all of the above for the vast majority, but for those of faith, the equation is the same…God is in control, and how blessed we are to embrace Him, while welcoming the New Year. While ushering out the old, tattered year, there in its place, a brand-New Year of countless possibilities, and endless ways to praise God! Amen!

Through it all, as we take inventory of this past year, no matter our circumstances, it’s a good exercise to acknowledge that through it all, God was with us.

He was there in moments of loss.

He was there for boundless joy.

He was there when doubt crept into our minds over situations that we faced.

He was there when we were at our weakest.

He was there to strengthen us and our resolve.

He was there with arms open wide, with a one-of-a-kind love that supersedes any other kind of love we’ve ever known.

Think about previous issues, or circumstances we may have faced. The pandemic, the repercussions due to it.  The senseless arbitrary lines of division, resulting in many broken or shattered relationships.

Ostensibly, think about relationships that have grown closer, thereby bringing new beginnings that otherwise wouldn’t have happened.

Whatever it is that you went through, regardless of what they were…God was there the entire time, of that we can be sure.

Hold memories close in hearts.  Yet let’s prepare for new ones to fill the vacant lots in our mind, heart, body and soul. There is always “Ample space” for new treasured moments.  New friendships, new pathways or roads to navigate, new gains through loss, and new ways to honor God in every conceivable way.

However, there is one relationship that never gets old.  And that is the one we have with Jesus Christ. That connection is perpetual, infinite, unmovable, and impregnable.

It’s a relationship that will harness dark webs from our minds, and one that invariably enlightens our soul with joy.  It’s one that keeps on giving, and one that is represented by peace, and inexpressible joy.

This New Year, if you haven’t already done so, turn to the LORD of lords, and King of kings, then begin to explore a quintessential relationship like none other, and fully embrace the love of a lifetime. And it all begins by inviting Him into your heart of hearts.

Have you read His word?

Do you know Him? 

Do you have a personal relationship with Him?

A Brand-New Year is about to begin… what are you waiting for?

“Father my God, thank You for another year, thank You for giving me the gift of a new year, another season, and additional time to love and praise You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my Rock and my redeemer.

Psalm 19:14 (NLT)

The picture above is highly representative of us, hidden and protected by the cleft of a rock.  The Dove, which has become known as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, sits comfortably and has an unobscured vision of everything in front of him.  The dove isn’t trapped, or hopeless…instead he has a grasp of good things to come, and a future unthwarted because of that rock. He can see clearly straight ahead and knows who His master is.

Our Rock is our protection, and He is our reason for hope in our future, and for every second we are alive here on earth.  Irrespective of moments that are exceedingly difficult, and times where we can hardly breathe due to circumstances that overcome us that can change our lives instantly.

However, while hidden in the cleft of our mighty Rock, Redeemer, and King of kings, we are assured safe passage through the most painful, or extenuating days of our existence. We get through it, only because of Him.  We can nestle in His arms and lay down our cares before Him, and know He will bind our broken hearts, and fortify us with His strength and love.

Some non-believers may think it’s silly to have such great faith, while evil is surrounding us in the news, media, internet, and in our own neighborhoods.  It’s foolish to those in the secular world, but to those who believe…we realize who is invariably in control, and who is watching over all of us.

Evil will always exist, until we are all one day in the presence of the LORD.  The Bible states in Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood.” In other words, the fight is not against governments or people or companies or circumstances.” The real battle—the unseen battle—is our struggle in prayer, and we already know that Jesus is victorious, and overcame death.

Just as 1 John 4:4-5 states so eloquently:  “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

Some ask, “How do you hear from God today? We don’t see Him or hear anything.  Why do you believe?”

My answer has never wavered: “Because I know it’s the truth, and His word speaks to my heart and soul.”  

Holding the Bible in our hands is of itself a miraculous work of God Himself. It’s a true living account that is recorded, and doctrine that has spoken to His followers since the beginning of its origin.  It still speaks this very day to all of those who are followers of Christ.

God is the Author, who had scribes write an account of His Words, actions, commandments, promises, and plans for His children.  The Holy Spirit living within us, continues to use those Words to do miraculous works all around us, and in our minds, hearts and soul.

The Gift of Christ…our Savior, born to take away our sins, and to save us from ourselves…What a joy and reason to celebrate daily.

Safely nuzzled in the cleft of our Rock, our provider, our ultimate One and only, everything and forever…now that is what I call living!

“Father God, thank You for providing the protection, safety and love for Your children, today, tomorrow and always, in Jesus precious name, Amen.”

Falling short of perfection is not an unknown phenomenon concerning those of the “flesh.”  After all, as we have been informed and are acutely aware, there is only ONE who is perfect, and so it is and always shall be, the LORD Almighty!

The thing is most Christians are particularly hard on themselves knowing they fall short or slipped, albeit temporarily, into a place that is less than acceptable in walking the path of righteousness.

What most of us fail to remember is God’s promises and words to us. In Isaiah 43:26 He is telling us to put Him in remembrance and plead our case, so He will be fast and apt to forgive us.

He also is the One who promises Isaiah 44:22 to “blot out our transgressions.”  When we repent, He will blot them out…the slate is wiped clean. He loves us that much.

Jesus died for us, so that sins may be forgiven, and He will forgive us.  He knows out heart and our intentions. We cannot fool Him, He knows that essentially, that the flesh is weak.  Our Spirit is within, but as it is stated in Matthew 26:41 “The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak…”

When we slip up, we shouldn’t condemn ourselves, but instead be joyful knowing we have a loving understanding Father, who will catch us when we fall.  He will hold us while we are weak, and He will provide the vision for clarity when we can’t see the forest for the trees.

Next time a mess up comes your way, and it will…remember the Father, who is there at all times, guiding, directing, touching, healing and providing for all things. God definitely, and unconditionally forgives with His compassionate heart every single time we fall short of perfection. Amen!

“Father God, thank You for catching me when I fall, providing a steady path when I slip, and for providing me with Your love and grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Psalm 85:6

“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?”

How many have had moments desiring and needing a “fresh touch from God?”  A moment when things in life have become weak, and life is less than it should be.

This could be a moment that God is dealing with us about something that needs to be revived, restored, and refreshed.  It might be related to health issues, relationships, or a lack-luster walk with God and/or a sign of faith waning and cooling off.

No matter what it may be, how can we really know when a fresh touch directly from God is warranted and needed?

First things first. Honestly is essential and crucial to a deep connection with God. We need to tune into the microscope within our souls and crank it up exponentially, and scrutinize where we are in our walk, relationship, trust and confidence in God overall.

Have we waned in our belief because scenarios or issues have begun to suffocate us and stagnate to the point of becoming apathetic in our walk with God?

We might need a fresh touch from the LORD when life no longer blesses us.  When walking with Jesus has become less than an overwhelming joy.

We need a fresh touch when our enthusiasm has become “comfortably settled” and routine or ritualistic while speaking about Jesus.

Remember how we felt the day we were saved?

The jumping for joy? The peace?   Remember the existential peace that only emanates from the Holy Spirit?

Some of us might be laboring under the misapprehension that lack of “newness and freshness” is only for those who are not saved.

Or only from those outside of our church family.  But that isn’t the case. The lack of freshness can be in my life, your life, or perhaps even something that is of concern for God too!

The Holy Spirit is constantly convicting us, if we are not moved by Him to action, then there is something fundamentally wrong.

We are in need of a fresh touch from God, when we are not living for Jesus in every single aspect of our lives. And not putting Him and our love for Him first.

Remember this, Christ is coming back, and looking for those who are really seeking His face, for those who seek the higher ground, for those who are honoring Him, obeying Him, and undeniably consumed and filled with LOVE, and LIFE for Him.
In need of a fresh touch from God?

Then call upon God, to help.  And then really seek Him, for a fresh touch, while being cloaked in a Spirit of humility in all things today, tomorrow and always, in Christ name, Amen!

“Father, help me to be abundantly aware of Your presence, Your love, Your grace, and Your ability, to bring boundless joy to me all the days of my life, may I seek You nonstop, may I speak of Your promises, and Your gospel, all the days of my life, in Jesus name, Amen. “

• Psalm 80:18-19 “Then we will not turn away from you; revive us, and we will call on your name. Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.”
• Isaiah 57:15 “This is what the high and lofty One says, he who lives forever, whose name is holy: I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.”