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DEAR GOD: Help Us To Grow In Grace Through Your Word~

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Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ - Pastor Charles Finny Arumainayagam

Growing in Grace Through the Word

  “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness.” – 1 Peter 2:2-3 (NLT)

Commentary: This verse encapsulates the essence of spiritual growth and the believer’s journey toward maturity in Christ. Peter’s analogy of “newborn babies” craving “pure spiritual milk” paints a picture of dependency, eagerness, and a natural hunger for sustenance. Just as a newborn instinctively cries out for milk to sustain life and grow, so should believers long for the “sincere milk of the Word”—the untainted truths of Scripture. This metaphor highlights the importance of the Word of God as the foundational nourishment that sustains and grows our faith.

When Peter mentions “pure spiritual milk,” he is speaking to the essence of God’s Word, uncorrupted by worldly distractions or false teachings. In our modern world, where countless voices compete for attention, the need for such purity is ever relevant. The Word serves as the foundation for understanding God’s will, discerning truth, and resisting the pull of a society often swayed by fleeting values.

Hebrews 4:12 reminds us: For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Furthermore, this growth is not merely intellectual but deeply transformative. Peter ties it to the experience of salvation, suggesting that the pursuit of God’s Word leads believers into the fullness of their relationship with Him. It is not enough to “taste” that the Lord is good; we must consistently feed on His Word to experience the depth of His kindness and grace.

Through this, we grow in character, bearing the fruits of the Spirit: But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Biblical values derived from these passages are strikingly applicable today. In a culture that often prioritizes self-sufficiency, Peter reminds us of the beauty of dependence—not on human solutions but on divine sustenance.

To grow spiritually, we must cultivate a desire for God’s Word, setting aside distractions and counterfeit sources of “nourishment.” In doing so, we align with Christ’s call to abide in Him: Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:5). His Word equips us to stand firm against the currents of secularism, cynicism, and despair, offering hope that is both eternal and unshakable.

Reflective Questions:

  • What steps can I take to develop a deeper hunger for the truths in God’s Word?
  • Are there distractions or influences in my life that dilute the “pure spiritual milk” God offers?
  • How can the kindness of the Lord I’ve experienced inspire me to trust Him more?

Prayer:

“LORD my Gracious and loving Father, we come before You as children yearning for the nourishment only Your Word can provide. Thank You for giving us the sincere milk of truth that feeds our souls and draws us closer to You. Lord, help us to crave Your Word with undivided hearts, removing anything that hinders our growth in You. Let the kindness and grace we have tasted in Your presence fill us with gratitude and a renewed passion to grow deeper in our relationship with You. May Your Word transform us, equipping us to live faithfully and boldly in a world in need of Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflective Question for the Day:

Am I intentionally making space in my life to drink deeply from God’s Word, or am I relying on spiritual “snacks” to sustain my faith? Delve deeply into this and ask for the LORD to guide you as you do so…

God Bless you all~

 

 

DEAR GOD: Navigating My Life With Your Guidance Always~

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God's Hands: 20 Comforting Bible Verses - Guideposts

Are you right this moment searching for guidance, for a path that leads us closer to purpose and fulfillment?

The Bible offers us profound spiritual guidance, applicable to every aspect of our lives. Through its teachings, we find direction, comfort, and the wisdom necessary to navigate life’s complexities.

The Role of Scripture in Daily Guidance

Scripture serves as a beacon of light in our lives, illuminating the path we should follow. Psalms 119:105 (ESV) reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” This verse encapsulates the essence of how Scripture guides us: it provides clarity, direction, and the assurance that we are not wandering aimlessly.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I incorporate Scripture into my daily routine to seek guidance?
  2. What specific areas of my life could benefit from the wisdom of the Bible?
  3. How can I remain open and receptive to the spiritual guidance provided by God?

Supportive Scriptures

  • 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.”
  • James 1:5 (ESV): “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
  • Psalm 32:8 (ESV): “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

Biblical Overview

Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of individuals receiving divine guidance. From Abraham’s call to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1) to Moses receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20), God’s guidance is a recurring theme. These instances remind us that seeking and following divine guidance leads to a life aligned with God’s will.

Moral Thought and Takeaways

The overarching lesson from Scripture is to trust in God’s wisdom and guidance. By acknowledging Him in all our ways and not relying solely on our understanding, we open ourselves to divine direction. This trust is an act of faith, requiring us to surrender our desires and plans to God’s greater plan for our lives.

Closing Prayer

“LORD-Heavenly Father, we come before You seeking Your divine guidance in every aspect of our lives. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and to rely on Your word as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Grant us the humility to acknowledge You in all our ways and the faith to follow Your direction. May Your guidance lead us to a life of purpose, peace, and fulfillment. In Jesus, Yeshua’s name we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

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.”

May this verse guide your thoughts and actions throughout the day, reminding you of God’s unwavering presence and guidance.

The Compassion of God Moves the Hand of God, the Heart of God, and the People of God - Bible Home

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Boundless Mercy~

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A God of Mercy (Nehemiah 9) — Watterson Trail

Commentary on Psalm 103:10

Verse: “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.”

Analysis: Psalm 103 is one of the most beloved psalms, attributed to King David. Verse 10 stands as a testament to the boundless mercy and grace of God. This verse emphasizes God’s forgiveness and His merciful nature. Unlike human justice, which often seeks to measure out punishment equivalent to the wrongdoing, God’s forgiveness transcends our sins. He chooses not to deal with us based on our failures or sins but rather showers us with compassion and mercy.

Biblical Message: The message here is one of grace. While humans often remember and recount each other’s mistakes, holding grudges and seeking retribution, God’s love and mercy operate differently. In the face of our imperfections and transgressions, He offers pardon and does not hold our sins against us. This highlights the difference between divine and human justice, showcasing God’s infinite patience and love for humanity.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How do you feel when you reflect on the idea that God does not repay us according to our sins?
  2. Are there people in your life that you find hard to forgive? How can this verse inspire you to extend grace to them?
  3. What steps can you take to embody the same mercy and compassion in your daily interactions that God shows towards you?

Supporting Scriptures:

  1. Lamentations 3:22-23 – “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
  2. Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
  3. Romans 6:14 – “For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.”

Biblical Context: Then and Today:

Then: In the context of ancient Israel, this message was revolutionary. The laws of the time were strict, and the consequences for sins were often severe. The understanding of a merciful God who forgives sins and does not hold them against His people was a source of immense hope and comfort. It painted a picture of a deity who was not just just, but also loving and merciful.

Today: This verse continues to hold significant relevance in contemporary times. Many people today struggle with guilt, shame, and the fear of punishment for their past mistakes. Psalm 103:10 reminds us of God’s unchanging nature and His promise of forgiveness. It encourages us to accept His grace and extend the same grace to others, fostering a culture of forgiveness and compassion.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You in humble adoration and gratitude. Your mercy knows no bounds, and Your grace is beyond our comprehension. We thank You for not treating us as our sins deserve. Help us to embrace Your forgiveness and to extend the same grace to those around us. May we be a reflection of Your love and compassion in our daily lives. Guide us to live in a way that honors You, always mindful of the boundless mercy You have shown us. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

I hope this provides a deep, thoughtful reflection on Psalm 103:10.

God Bless You All~

Experiencing God's Boundless Love and Mercy | Divine Love | Growing ...

 

DEAR GOD: I Find A Sanctuary In Your Name~

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You have always put a wall of protection around him…take away everything he has, and he will ...

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” – Proverbs 18:10

In Proverbs 18:10, we encounter a verse that resonates through time and across hearts with its profound promise and assurance. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”This scripture offers an image of Divine protection that has inspired believers for generations and continues to provide a haven of spiritual solace in today’s often tumultuous world.

 Insightful Analysis

Imagine a towering fortress, standing tall and immovable against the onslaught of external forces. This imagery encapsulates the essence of the Lord’s name – an impregnable sanctuary where safety and refuge are guaranteed. The verse speaks not just of physical protection, but of a deep, spiritual safeguarding where the righteous find peace amidst the chaos. When we utter the name of the Lord, we invoke His power, His Presence, and His promises. It’s a call to Divine intimacy, where the nearness of God is our protection, and His steadfast love is our shield.

Biblical Perspective: Yesterday, Today, and All Days

Throughout biblical history, the name of the Lord has been synonymous with His character and His covenant with His people. From the patriarchs to the prophets, invoking His name was a declaration of trust and a testament of faith. For instance, David, when facing Goliath, proclaimed, “You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts” (1 Samuel 17:45). This declaration wasn’t just about invoking power but acknowledging the source of his strength and victory.

Today, we continue to find relevance in this ancient wisdom. The world may change, but the assurance in the Lord’s name remains unwavering. When we face uncertainties, whether personal trials or global crises, calling upon His name is a reminder of the unchanging nature of God’s protection. This verse calls us to seek His presence actively, to run towards Him with the confidence of a child running into the arms of a loving parent. The righteousness mentioned here isn’t about human perfection but about a heart turned towards God, seeking refuge in His unwavering grace.

Supportive Scriptures

To further illuminate this powerful message, consider these supportive scriptures:

  • “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.” – Psalm 18:2
  • “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.'” – Psalm 91:1-2
  • “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow… scorch you.” – Isaiah 43:1-2

These scriptures reiterate the eternal truth that God’s name is synonymous with His presence and protection, transcending time and circumstances.

A Personal Reflection 

From the depths of my heart to Yours, LORD, I acknowledge Your name as my sanctuary and my strong tower. In moments of doubt and fear, I find solace in Your unwavering promise of safety. Your name, O LORD, is not just a word; it is a beacon of hope, a fortress of love, and a symbol of divine strength. I run to You, not out of desperation, but out of love and trust, knowing that in Your Presence, I find my true home.

Prayer and Blessings

“Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your majestic name, which is a strong tower for all who seek refuge. We are grateful for the assurance that we are safe within Your embrace. Lord, strengthen our hearts to continually seek You, to run into Your arms with faith and love. May Your name be forever exalted in our lives, a testimony of Your unending grace and protection.

Bless us, O Lord, with the wisdom to always recognize the sanctuary of Your Presence. Let Your peace that surpasses all understanding guard our hearts and minds. As we walk through the valleys and climb the mountains of life, may we never forget that Your name is our shield and our fortress. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.”

May the Lord’s presence be a constant source of strength, comfort, and unwavering protection for you, today and always.

Blessings abound in His name~

30 Bible Verses about God’s Protection (With Explanation) - Bible InsideOut

 

DEAR GOD: Through You I Find Purpose in a Quiet Lifestyle~

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Solitude Creates Space for God - Henri Nouwen

Living a simple and quiet life often seems mundane, especially in a world where excitement, adventure, and a constant display of activities are highly celebrated. Yet, a life dedicated to the Lord, even in its simplicity, is profoundly meaningful and purposeful. The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (ESV), “Aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.” This passage encourages believers to find contentment and purpose in their daily tasks, trusting that living a life of integrity and humility glorifies God.

In a society dominated by social media, where the pressure to showcase an exciting lifestyle is immense, it is easy to feel inadequate or envious. However, the Bible teaches us that our value and purpose are not found in external validation or fleeting pleasures, but in our relationship with God. Proverbs 19:23 (ESV) reminds us, “The fear of the Lord leads to life and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.” This satisfaction and peace come from knowing that our worth is defined by God’s love and our devotion to Him, rather than by worldly measures of success or excitement.

Reflect on the life of Jesus, who often sought solitude and prayer, prioritizing His intimate relationship with the Father over the approval of the crowds. In Mark 1:35 (ESV), “And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” Jesus’ example teaches us the importance of solitude and quiet reflection, which nourish our souls and strengthen our faith. Similarly, we are called to focus on our spiritual growth and devotion, rather than striving to meet societal expectations of excitement and activity.

When we embrace a lifestyle centered on God’s word, we find that even the most ordinary tasks become acts of worship. Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV) says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” This perspective transforms mundane routines into meaningful experiences, as we recognize that every moment is an opportunity to serve and honor God.

Consider these reflective questions: Do you find your sense of worth and purpose in your relationship with God, or in the approval of others? How can you cultivate a deeper intimacy with Christ in your daily life? Are there areas of your life where you feel pressured to conform to societal expectations, rather than focusing on your spiritual growth and devotion?

The moral takeaway is clear: Our lives do not need to be filled with constant excitement or recognition to be significant. What truly matters is our heart and devotion to the Lord. We should not be hard on ourselves for leading a seemingly unexciting life but rather take joy in the intimate relationship we have with Christ. Embrace who you are supposed to be, and find peace in the knowledge that God’s love and promises are sufficient.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of a quiet and simple life. Help us to find purpose and fulfillment in our daily routines, knowing that we are serving You in all that we do. Strengthen our faith and deepen our relationship with You, so that we may rest in Your love and grace. Protect us from the pressures of societal expectations and help us to focus on what truly matters—our devotion to You. May we find peace and satisfaction in Your presence, and may our lives be a testament to Your goodness and mercy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings to you as you walk in the Lord’s ways, finding joy and purpose in your intimate relationship with Him –

God Bless You All~

 

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DEAR GOD: Help Us To Keep Negative Thoughts From Our Mind~

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Take Up Your Cross – 3 Meditations in 2024 | Walk in the spirit, Jesus pictures, Jesus artwork

A friend and I were talking recently, and she was being plagued by negative thoughts and ” what IF- kind of scenarios. “What if I have an emergency in the middle of the night and there is a snowstorm outside and the roads are impassable? What if my dog has an emergency of some kind – the only 24 hours vet clinic is an hour away – what will happen to my dog?  What if my husband dies before me – how can I live all alone I’ve never been alone!”   

Maintaining our thoughts with the light of Christ is a daily pursuit, a conscious and deliberate practice. The Bible teaches us that our minds are battlegrounds, but through Christ, we have the power to overcome negative thoughts and fears of the future. Obviously, the enemy wants to taunt us and besiege our minds with fear and doubts and truly wants to paralyze us with negative dark thoughts.

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2, KJV)

How do we keep negative thoughts at bay? We must truly and fully make a daily and continuous practice of trust and faith in God – and fully immerse yourself in the Word of God.

As it is written, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105, KJV) When we fill our minds and hearts with the scriptures, we crowd out the darkness with His Divine light. Daily meditation on His Word helps align our thoughts with His truth.

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5, KJV) Through purposeful behavior, we can cultivate a mindset that mirrors the mind of Christ. This involves casting our worries upon Him and embracing His peace.

“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, KJV) Remember, Christ has already won the battle over sin and death, and through Him, we can triumph over our fears and anxieties.

In moments of doubt, turn to prayer and scripture. Let the rivers of God’s Word wash away the dark clouds of doubt, replacing them with the warm, inviting sunlight of His promises. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27, KJV)

Visualize your negative thoughts as leaves carried away by a gentle stream. As they drift downstream, they are replaced by the oceans of Christ’s light and love, renewing and refreshing your spirit. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8, KJV)

Make it part of your LIFE to be fully submerged in His Word, to soak in His love, and to let His light guide your thoughts and actions. Reflect on His unwavering love and faithfulness and let that be your anchor in turbulent times.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.” (Psalm 23:1-3, KJV)

In this tribute to our Heavenly Father, let us remember that He is always with us, guiding us with His loving hand. His Word is the compass that keeps us on the path of righteousness, and His light dispels the shadows that seek to cloud our minds. “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1, KJV)

May your heart be ever filled with His peace, and your mind ever renewed by His promises. Through Christ, we can overcome every negative thought and stand firm in the assurance of His eternal love.

“LORD -Thank You for the light You pour into our lives, dispelling the darkness and filling our hearts with hope and peace. As we immerse ourselves in Your Word, help us to renew our minds and cast away every negative thought that seeks to burden us. Guide us, O Lord, with Your steadfast hand, and let us be ever mindful of Your promises. Teach us to trust in You fully, knowing that You hold our future in Your hands. May Your love and light flow through us, cleansing our minds and hearts, and renewing our spirits each day. We surrender our worries and anxieties to You, and we embrace the peace that surpasses all understanding. Fill us with the joy of Your presence, and may we walk confidently in the path You have set before us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”

God Bless You All~

Daily Devotion: Walk in the Spirit – The Herald

DEAR GOD: Teach Us To Be Embracing the Gospel in Times of Emptiness

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Simplicity of the Gospel

When the Joy Suddenly Leaves a Christian

It is not uncommon for Christians to experience moments when their joy seems to vanish, leaving behind a sense of emptiness. This phenomenon can be unsettling, but it’s important to understand that it’s a normal part of the Christian journey. Let’s explore some reasons for this loss of joy, how we can regain it, and why we should never give in to the emptiness.

Reasons for the Emptiness

  1. Spiritual Fatigue: Constantly pouring out without taking time to be spiritually replenished can lead to burnout.
    • Scripture: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
  2. Unconfessed Sin: Holding onto sin can create a barrier between us and God, stealing our peace and joy.
    • Scripture: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
  3. Life’s Trials: Difficult circumstances can overshadow our sense of joy if we focus more on the problem than on God’s promises.
    • Scripture: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3)

Regaining the Joy

  1. Reconnect with God: Spend time in prayer and the Word to restore your relationship with God.
  2. Confession and Repentance: Clear any sin that might be hindering your fellowship with God.
  3. Fellowship with Believers: Engage with a community of believers who can encourage and support you.
    • Scripture: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
  4. Gratitude: Focus on the blessings and goodness of God, which helps shift your perspective from problems to praise.
    • Scripture: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Reflective Questions

  • Have I been spending regular time in prayer and scripture reading?
  • Is there any unconfessed sin in my life that might be hindering my relationship with God?
  • Am I surrounded by a supportive community of believers?

Metaphorical References

  • The Flame: Like a fire, our joy needs fuel. Neglecting spiritual disciplines is like removing wood from a fire; the flame weakens.
  • The Well: Our joy is a well that can run dry if not regularly replenished with living water (Jesus’ teachings).

Moral Thoughts and Thoughts to Ponder

  • Persistence in Faith: The Christian Walk is not a sprint but a marathon. There will be highs and lows, but persistence and trust in God’s faithfulness will sustain us.
  • Focus on the Eternal: Earthly joys are fleeting, but the joy found in Christ is eternal and unshakeable.
  • Never Give In to Emptiness: When we feel empty, it is a call to draw nearer to God, not to retreat into despair. Grasp onto the gospel and wear it daily like a shield.

Prayer and Blessings

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You as we are acknowledging the times when our joy seems to slip away. We ask for Your forgiveness for any sins that may have created a distance between us and You. Lord, renew our spirits and fill us with Your everlasting joy. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith, especially during trials, and to always find our strength and hope in You. Surround us with Your peace and guide us with Your wisdom. May we wear the gospel daily, clinging to Your promises and finding solace in Your love. Bless us and keep us close to You, now and forevermore. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Blessings to you on this journey, and may you always find joy in His Presence. No matter what you are going through at this particular juncture, perhaps in a valley of grief, or relationship troubles, finances, facing a terminal disease or diagnosis that is difficult to accept, know that God is with you always. He will bring you through the darkest hours and hold your hand through it all. As well as hold your hand through the good times. Don’t give up, give in the His love and His promises – and you will never be sorry.  Brothers and sisters – love Him fully and life will offer a way it is meant to be LIVED through Him and Him alone.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: A Life of Holy Service: Living According to Your Will”?

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Gods Will

Living a life of service to God is a profound and enriching journey that spans both the ancient and modern days. By grounding our actions in scripture, we can find purpose and direction in our pursuit to fulfill God’s will.

Biblical References:

  1. Deuteronomy 10:12-13 (Old Testament): “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?”
    • This passage outlines the essence of living a life dedicated to God: fear, love, obedience, and wholehearted service.
  2. John 15:5 (New Testament): “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
    • Jesus emphasizes the importance of remaining connected to Him, as our source of strength and purpose.
  3. Galatians 5:13 (New Testament): “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
    • Paul encourages us to use our freedom to serve others with humility and love.
  4. James 1:27 (New Testament): “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
    • True service to God involves caring for those in need and maintaining moral purity.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How can I prioritize God’s will in my daily decisions and actions?
  2. In what ways can I serve my community and those in need?
  3. What areas of my life need more alignment with God’s teachings?
  4. How can I cultivate a deeper connection with God through prayer and worship?

Moral Thoughts:

  • Serving God requires a heart of humility, love, and obedience.
  • Our actions should reflect God’s love and compassion to those around us.
  • We are called to be stewards of God’s grace, using our talents and resources to further His kingdom.
  • Living a life of service means continually seeking God’s guidance and striving to grow in faith.

 “LORD-Thank You for the privilege of serving You. Help us to live lives that reflect Your love and grace. Guide our hearts and minds to align with Your will in all that we do. May our actions be a testament to Your goodness, and may we bring hope and light to those around us. Strengthen our faith and fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may serve You faithfully and joyfully. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Holding Fast To You And Holding Tight Through It All~

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 His Light Shines Through Trials: Trust in the LORD

In the journey of life, there are moments when we feel stuck in an endless cycle of trials, with each day bringing new challenges and hardships. It is in these dark times, when hope seems distant, that we are called to hold fast to the LORD. The psalmist declares in Psalm 34:19 (KJV), “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” This verse is a reminder that while trials are a part of our earthly existence, our faith in God is our anchor and our shield.

Lessons from Yesterday and Today

In biblical times, figures like Job and David experienced intense periods of suffering and despair. Job, despite losing everything, remained steadfast in his faith, declaring, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” (Job 13:15, KJV). David, fleeing from King Saul, found solace in God, writing, “The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer” (2 Samuel 22:2, KJV). These examples from the past show us that unwavering trust in God amidst trials is not new but a timeless truth.

Today, we may face different kinds of trials—financial hardships, health issues, broken relationships, or emotional turmoil. However, the core of our response should remain the same: trust in the LORD. Modern-day challenges might be daunting, but God’s promises stand unchanged. Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) assures us, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”

Moral Takeaways

  1. Perseverance in Faith: Just as the heroes of faith did not waver, we too are called to persevere.
  2. God’s Sovereignty: Remembering that God is in control, even when life feels out of control, can provide peace.
  3. Hope in Deliverance: Trusting that God will deliver us, in His timing and His way, helps us to endure.

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, in our moments of deepest despair, we turn to You. Strengthen our faith, O LORD, and help us to trust in Your plan. Deliver us from our trials and fill our hearts with hope and peace.  In Christ’ name -Amen.”

Scripture in Parting

Let us hold on to the words of Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”

A Blessing

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. In your darkest moments, may you feel His presence and find strength in His promises. Hold fast to the LORD, for He is with you always. Blessings to you, dear reader. 

God Bless you all.

   

 

DEAR GOD: I’m Tuning Into Your Voice In All My Ways~

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Listening to God’s Voice 

The Call to Listen

The practice of listening to God’s voice is timeless and powerful. It’s both a personal journey and a communal endeavor, deeply rooted in the Scriptures and applicable to our daily lives today. Listening to God requires intention, patience, and a heart open to His guidance.

Biblical Foundations

Scripture provides numerous examples and instructions about listening to God. One of the most poignant is found in 1 Kings 19:11-12:

  “The Lord said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”

Here, Elijah learns that God’s voice can be found in the stillness, in the gentle whisper. This teaches us that to hear God, we often need to quiet our minds and hearts.

Another key verse is John 10:27:

  “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

This passage reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are attuned to His voice and guidance.

Application in Today’s World

In today’s fast-paced, noisy world, finding moments of quiet to listen to God can be challenging yet rewarding. It’s about carving out intentional time and space for prayer, meditation, and reflection. Modern distractions can easily drown out the gentle whisper of God’s voice, so it’s vital to prioritize our spiritual practices.

Psalm 46:10 tells us:

 “Be still, and know that I am God.”

This is a call to stillness in a restless world, encouraging us to pause and seek God’s presence amidst our busy lives.

Moral Thoughts

Listening to God’s voice helps us align our actions with His will. It can provide clarity in moral dilemmas and strength in times of weakness. It teaches us empathy, compassion, and humility. When we listen to God, we are better equipped to listen to and love others.

Reflective Questions

  • How often do I set aside time to listen to God?
  • What distractions do I need to eliminate to hear His voice more clearly?
  • In what ways have I experienced God’s guidance through a “gentle whisper” in my life?

Personal Prayer

“LORD-Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of Your majesty and grace. We thank You for the gift of Your Word, which guides and comforts us. Teach us to quiet our hearts and minds, to listen attentively to Your voice. Help us to discern Your will in our lives and to follow Your guidance with faith and obedience. May Your gentle whispers lead us to live lives that honor and exalt You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

May this reflection inspire you to seek and hear God’s voice in your daily life, and may His guidance bring you peace and clarity.

God Bless You All