Christ

DEAR GOD: Unity in Christ Alone~

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The Blessings of Unity – In God's Image

Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, –
Romans 15:5

The verse from Romans 15:5 encapsulates a powerful message of unity, patience, and encouragement within the Christian community. Let explore and get more into its meaning, implications, and the daily aspirations we can derive from being in the Word, aligning with the Word. And following the LORD in all we do, act and say.

 The God of Patience and Consolation

The verse begins by invoking the “God of patience and consolation.” This Godly and most divine attribute emphasizes endurance and comfort. God’s patience sustains us during all of our trials, while His consolation provides comfort and solace. As believers, we are called to emulate these qualities, and incorporate them continuously during our interactions with others, and represent Christ in all we do.

Being Like-Minded

The prayer continues, urging believers to be “likeminded.” This doesn’t imply uniformity of thought but rather unity of purpose. We should share common goals, values, and aspirations, centered around Christ Jesus. Everything we are involved in should have Christ smack in the center of it. No matter what it is we are doing, Christ should be with us doing it too!

A good rule is to remember this – Would Christ approve of what you’re doing? And would Christ be happy with what you’re doing?

If the answer is NO – then don’t do it!  Simple equation really.

Unity According to Christ

Our unity should align with Christ’s example. He selflessly endured suffering, exemplifying patience and consolation. When we adopt His mindset, we foster harmony within the body of believers. When we harness His love and power and ascribe to His doctrine or Gospel – we are given the opportunity by His grace to live life according to His will and purpose for each of us.

Reflective Questions

  • How can we cultivate patience and comfort in our interactions with fellow Christians?
  • What practical steps can we take to promote unity within our local church or community?

Final Thoughts

Unity isn’t mere agreement; it’s a shared commitment to God’s purposes. As we glorify God with one mind and one mouth, and one body we honor the Father and reflect Christ’s love.

Moral Takeaway

Unity requires humility, forgiveness, and intentional efforts. Let us prioritize Christ’ love over personal preferences, seeking to build up others rather than pleasing ourselves. And doing what will bring a smile to our LORD’s face each and every time!

Meditative Verses

Philippians 2:2: “Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.”

1 Corinthians 1:10: “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.”

Closing Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, grant us the patience to endure trials and the comfort to console others. May our hearts be united in purpose, glorifying You as one body. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

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Romans 15:5 -invites us as well as reminds us that our unity, rooted in Christ, brings glory to God. Let us strive for like-mindedness, embracing patience, consolation, and love as we journey together in faith. 🙏🏼

DEAR GOD: I Need Your Wisdom & Love~

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I Love God Pictures, Photos, and Images for Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest ...

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.”
                                                                                              -James 3:17-18

 

Wisdom from Above 

In the book of James, we find a beautiful passage that speaks to the essence of true wisdom. Let’s delve into this scripture and explore its profound meaning. It is the inherent characteristic of the LORD and through His grace He offers it to His children. Each time we read His Word, and take time to reflect, meditate we are filled with more wisdom from above. When we fixate on goodness we take in the essence of the LORD and we are filled with peace and wisdom to go the course all the days of our lives.

As we confront the evil in our world and the chaotic happenings around us we are able to readily attain victory, through the LORD JESUS CHRIST!

We are able to jump over hurdles with Him and able to navigate the rough seas. We can take direction from the LORD which will open paths of peace and clarity in what His will is for our lives. We are able to “hear” His voice as being His heir apparent-as he redeemed us and washed us clean with and by His blood.

When we stay within the parameters of what the LORD approves of – we are able to face life with confidence and an assuredly that we will eventually finish this race when we are welcomed into eternal rewards one day.

Until such time, we have a job to do and the LORD is there to guide, direct, lead and touch us as we take on LIFE and all it entails.

The Essence of Wisdom

James begins by describing the characteristics of wisdom that come from above. These qualities serve as a guide for Christians righteous living:

  1. Purity: True wisdom is untainted, free from impurity or hidden agendas. It seeks the highest good for all.
  2. Peaceability: Wisdom promotes harmony and reconciliation. It doesn’t fuel strife but seeks to mend broken relationships.
  3. Gentleness: A wise person approaches others with kindness and compassion. Gentleness is the mark of a humble heart.
  4. Readiness to Listen: Wisdom is open to reason, willing to be entreated. It doesn’t stubbornly cling to its own opinions.
  5. Mercy and Good Fruits: Wisdom bears fruit in acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. It extends mercy to others.
  6. Impartiality: True wisdom treats everyone fairly, without favoritism or bias.
  7. Sincerity: Wisdom is genuine, without hypocrisy. It aligns words and actions.
Reflective Questions
  1. How can we cultivate these qualities in our lives?
    • Reflect on moments when you’ve exhibited these traits. How did it impact your relationships?
    • Consider areas where you can grow in wisdom. What steps can you take?
  2. What obstacles hinder us from embodying these virtues?
    • Explore personal biases, pride, or fear that may hinder wisdom.
    • How can we overcome these obstacles?
  3. How does wisdom impact our communities and the world?
    • Think about historical figures known for their wisdom. How did they influence society?
    • Consider the ripple effect of wise choices in your own life.
Moral Takeaway

Wisdom isn’t just theoretical knowledge; it’s practical and transformative. As we seek wisdom from above, let’s strive to live out these virtues daily. Our actions can sow seeds of peace and righteousness. We can make a difference when we adhere to His Word and His plan for our lives. We can truly operate on a different level as we go about our daily routine, when we bring the Word into everything we do. We can reach others through Christ, by example, by deed, by spirit and by conscious efforts to enforce His gospel of love into our heart as we extend it towards others. Especially those in the dark.

Thoughts to Meditate

Take a moment to meditate on these thoughts:

  • Wisdom is not about knowing everything; it’s about applying what we know.
  • True wisdom seeks the well-being of others, even when it requires sacrifice.
  • May our lives bear the fruit of heavenly wisdom.

 

Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, grant us wisdom that flows from Your heart. May we be vessels of peace, mercy, and gentleness. Help us sow seeds of righteousness in our interactions with others. In Christian unity, we find strength in You LORD, and it is Your peace and love that will sustain us all, in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”

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May we carry these reflections and the LORD’s grace and love while embracing wisdom as a guiding light on our journey. 🙏

DEAR GOD: Your Presence Is Here With Me~

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The Presence of Jesus - United Faith Church

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. –
John 14:18 (ESV)

Jesus speaks to His disciples during the Last Supper. He assures them that despite His impending departure, they will not be left alone. Instead, He promises to return to them. This verse encapsulates both the hope and comfort that Jesus offers to His followers.

The Greek word translated as “orphans” (or “comfortless “as stated in the KJV) conveys the idea of being bereaved, abandoned, or left desolate. Jesus assures His disciples that they won’t be left in this state. His promise extends beyond mere physical presence; it encompasses His ongoing spiritual presence through the Holy Spirit.

Supporting Scriptures

To understand the depth of Jesus’ promise, let’s consider related passages:

  1. John 14:15-17: Jesus introduces the concept of the Holy Spirit as the Advocate (Paraclete) who will come after His departure. The Spirit will guide, comfort, and empower the disciples.
  2. John 14:19: Jesus acknowledges that the world will no longer see Him physically, but the disciples will see Him because He lives. His resurrection ensures their eternal connection.
  3. John 14:20: In that day (after Jesus’ resurrection), the disciples will know that Jesus is in the Father, they are in Him, and He is in them.

Moral Reflection

Jesus’ promise transcends time and circumstance. As believers, we can draw several moral reflections:

  1. Assurance: Just as Jesus assured His disciples, we can trust that He remains with us. We are not spiritual orphans; His abiding presence sustains us.
  2. Hope: Even when circumstances seem bleak, Jesus’ promise reminds us of hope beyond the visible. His return and ongoing presence bring comfort.
  3. Community: Jesus’ promise extends to all believers. We are part of a global family, connected by His Spirit.

Reflective Questions

  1. How does the promise of Jesus’ ongoing presence impact your faith journey?
  2. Have you ever felt spiritually “orphaned”? How did you experience His comfort?

“In Christ, we find our eternal home—a place where spiritual orphanhood gives way to the abiding presence of our Savior.”

Closing Unity Prayer

“Dear Lord, thank You for the promise that You will never leave us as orphans. Your presence sustains us, even when life feels desolate. Fill our hearts with hope and remind us of the eternal connection we have through Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Video: Presence of Jesus - First Baptist Church

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May this reflection on John 14:18 encourage and strengthen our faith. 🙏

 

DEAR GOD: Your Mercy Endures Forever~

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20++ For The Lord Is Good And His Mercy Endures Forever Download - Free ...So, David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” And Nathan said to David, “The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die- 
2 Samuel 12:13 (NKJV)

 

Bathsheba 

In the annals of biblical history, Bathsheba emerges as a multifaceted character—a woman whose life was marked by both tragedy and resilience. Her story unfolds in the pages of the Old Testament, primarily in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings. Let us delve into the depths of her life, exploring her loyalty to God, drawing lessons from her experiences, and seeking inspiration for our own faith journeys.

The Tragedy

Bathsheba’s tale begins with a fateful encounter. She was bathing on her rooftop when King David, from his palace, caught sight of her. Despite her marital status (she was married to Uriah the Hittite), David succumbed to temptation and committed adultery with her. The consequences were dire: Bathsheba became pregnant, and David orchestrated Uriah’s death in battle to cover up their sin.

The Resilience

Bathsheba’s resilience shines through in the aftermath of tragedy. She mourned Uriah’s death but accepted her new reality. When David took her as his wife, she bore him a son named Solomon. Despite the painful circumstances of their union, Bathsheba’s loyalty to God remained steadfast.

Lessons from Bathsheba

Sin’s Consequences: Bathsheba’s story reminds us that even secret sins have repercussions. Our actions affect not only ourselves but also those around us. We must be vigilant and seek forgiveness when we stumble.

God’s Forgiveness: Bathsheba’s life demonstrates God’s willingness to forgive. When David repented, God forgave him, and Bathsheba’s son Solomon became a pivotal figure in Israel’s history. No matter our past, God extends grace to those who turn to Him.

Enduring Consequences: Even after forgiveness, Bathsheba faced ongoing challenges. Her son Solomon’s ascent to the throne was marred by power struggles and family strife. Loyalty to God doesn’t shield us from life’s difficulties, but it sustains us through them.

Thoughtful Reflections

Empathy: Consider Bathsheba’s emotions—her grief over Uriah’s death, her vulnerability, and her eventual acceptance of her role in God’s plan. How can we empathize with others in their struggles?

Integrity: Bathsheba’s loyalty to God remained unwavering. How can we cultivate integrity in our lives, even when circumstances are challenging.

God’s mercy endures forever. He will always forgive and welcome you back into the fold, if you have a true repentant heart, and have turned from your sin. As Jesus said to Mary Magalene, “Go and sin no more-” God’s forgiveness is as deep and boundless as the sea and stars in the sky.

Takeaways

  • Loyalty: Our loyalty to God transcends circumstances.
  • Forgiveness: God’s grace covers our mistakes.
  • Resilience: Even in trials, we can find strength in Him.
Prayer In Unity

“Dearest Heavenly Father, like Bathsheba, we acknowledge our imperfections. Grant us forgiveness and resilience. May our loyalty to You be unwavering, even in the face of adversity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

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Let Bathsheba’s story inspire all of us to walk faithfully with God, trusting His plan even when life takes unexpected turns. Let us pray for strength, forgiveness, and wisdom. May we seek God’s guidance in our decisions, just as Bathsheba did, all the days of our lives –

 

DEAR GOD: Amen! & Amen! & Amen!~

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HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER - HOPE CHURCH TORONTO WEST

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. 

And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the
patient waiting for Christ. –

2 Thessalonians 3-1-5 (KJV) 

 

There is a song —” Just say Amen!” — and it exalts the LORD for all He has done, is doing, and will continue to do for His children.  And, so it goes, “If anyone here knows He is faithful, is there anyone here who knows He is able, Just say Amen…”

The song brings tears of joy and hope to the eyes of the faithful, it is a moving and powerful song that gets me every time I hear it-and most of all, it is so true.

Almost everyone has a story to tell and moments that led up to that story, and currently living out that story in heights of glory for the LORD thanks to His grace and love.

Giving Him glory and praise and saying Amen to all He is and continues to be it a joyful and fantastic way of spending our time during our life.  He is the center of all that we are, all that we do, and all that we see, hear, taste, feel and experience.  When we walk with Him and hold onto His ways and listen to His voice, we will be spiritually enacted and cohesively react according to the principles of the Word -and Him.

Joyful, Joyful, and so amazing is my Lord and His love for me!

Hold Him in your heart, mind, and soul.  Think of Him and ask Him for guidance in all that you do.

And think back about what He has done in your life.  When you pray, reflect on your blessings and how He HAS blessed you over and over. Think of the times He has moved mightily in your life -before complaining about “but He isn’t hearing my prayers now.”  No.  That’s not so!  He listens to the cries of His children.  He knows our needs.  And He does hear always.   It has to be in His time, and according to His will.

So, think back to all He has done for you, or someone you love or know.  And, then realize that He is there for us always and always will be. I invite you to just be patient and continue giving Him praise, glory and obedience in reflection of His love and His will, today and all the days on earth, and then eventually into the glorious entrance of heaven where we will live on in eternity!

“Thank You Lord, I know You are able, and You are faithful, and You are mighty, and You are powerful, and thank You for Your steadfast love, endurance and compassion, I love You now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May the realization and comfort of this powerful verse bring about a personal reflection as you acknowledge and thank the LORD for all He has done in your life and continues to do, may you ascribe to His Word and His ways, and most of all – give Him unending thanks and glory!

DEAR GOD: THANK YOU!

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John 3:16 God So Loved The World Machine Embroidery Design

The Depth of Divine Love

The verse John 3:16 is a beacon of hope, a celestial promise that transcends time and space. It encapsulates the essence of Christianity—the profound love of God for humanity. Let us delve into its depths, exploring how we, as Christians, can honor Him and live out this eternal truth.

The Verse

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

The Magnitude of His Sacrifice

God’s love is boundless. He didn’t merely express affection; He gave His Son—the ultimate sacrifice. Imagine the pain of a parent surrendering their child for the sake of others.

  • How does this selfless act impact your understanding of love?

Inclusive Love

“The world” encompasses everyone—regardless of race, creed, or past. God’s love knows no boundaries.

  • How can we extend such inclusive love to others?

Belief and Eternal Life

Belief in Jesus is the key. It’s not mere intellectual assent but wholehearted trust. Eternal life awaits those who embrace this truth.

  • What does genuine belief look like in your life?

Living Sacrifices

Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices. Our daily choices—small or significant—can honor God.

What sacrifices can you make today to honor Him?

Love in Action

 John 3:18 reminds us to love not in words alone but through deeds. Acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion honoring Him in all we do.

  • How can you tangibly express God’s love to others?

Integrity and Holiness

Our moral views matter. Honoring God involves living with integrity, resisting temptation, and pursuing holiness.

  • What areas of your life need alignment with God’s standards?

Thoughts to Take Away

Embrace Grace

God’s love isn’t earned; it’s freely given. Accept it with gratitude.

  • How can you extend grace to yourself and others?


Share the Good News

John 3:16 isn’t just for us—it’s for the world. Share it boldly.

  • Who needs to hear this life-transforming message today?

 Unity Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your incomprehensible love. Help us honor You daily, living as reflections of Your grace. May our lives echo John 3:16, drawing others into Your embrace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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 John 3:16 isn’t a mere verse; it’s a lifeline. As Christians, let us honor God by living out this love, sharing it with a world desperate for hope. May our lives resonate with the eternal truth: God so loved us that He gave His Son. 🙏✨

DEAR GOD: We Are All Wonderfully Made By Your Hands~

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Creation | La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made: A Reflection on Psalm 139:13-14

Introduction

The verses from Psalm 139:13-14 express a profound recognition of the LORD’s Divine craftsmanship in the creation of human life. The psalmist acknowledges that God’s involvement in our formation is not distant or detached but intimate and personal. This post will explore the moral implications of these verses, supported by additional scripture, with reflective questions and a moral takeaway.

Body

The phrase “thou hast possessed my reins” signifies God’s deep knowledge and control over our innermost being. The term “reins” in the Hebrew context refers to the kidneys, which were thought to be the seat of emotions and desires. This metaphor suggests that God understands our feelings and inclinations fully.

“You knit me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13) further emphasizes the individual care God takes in shaping each person. This imagery of knitting conveys a sense of purpose and intentionality. Every thread of our being, every strand of DNA, is woven with precision and care.

The moral dimension of these verses is clear: if we are intricately created by God, then every life has inherent value and purpose. This belief is echoed in Genesis 1:27, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” The image of God, within us bestows a dignity that demands respect and love for oneself and others.

Reflective Questions

  • How does the knowledge that you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” affect your self-esteem and the way you treat others?
  • In what ways can you honor the LORD’s craftsmanship in your life?
  • How does recognizing the value of every human life influence your views on social issues?

Supporting Scripture

Jeremiah 1:5 states, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” This preordained purpose highlights that our existence is not accidental but part of a greater overall Divine plan.

Ephesians 2:10 also supports this notion: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Our lives are meant for good works, actions that reflect the goodness of our Creator.

Conclusion

The recognition that we are fearfully and wonderfully made should lead us to a life of gratitude and purpose. Understanding our worth in God’s eyes can transform our perspective, inspiring us to live in a way that honors our the LORD’s Divine craftsmanship.

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for creating me with such care and detail. Help me to see myself and others through Your eyes, recognizing the worth and purpose You have placed in every life. Guide me to live out the good works You have prepared for me and do all according to Your will and purpose in my life, today, tomorrow and beyond, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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Takeaway Moral Thought

We are not random products of chance but masterpieces of our Divine and Master Artist and Creator, the LORD of lords and King of kings. Let us live with the dignity and purpose befitting such a work of art, treating ourselves and others with the love and respect that our Creator has shown us.

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May these verses from Psalm 139:13-14 invite us to consider our own lives and the lives of those around us with renewed reverence and responsibility, recognizing the LORD’s touch and creation in every human soul.

DEAR GOD: Grant Us The Eternal Value Of Wisdom

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For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and ...

Psalm 49: The Transience of Wealth and the Eternal Value of Wisdom

 This beautiful Psalm serves as a profound meditation on the nature of wealth, the inevitability of death, and the enduring value of wisdom. It is a Psalm that speaks across ages, reminding us of the limitations of material riches and the importance of spiritual understanding.

Scripture

The psalmist begins by calling all people, regardless of their social standing, to listen to the wisdom he imparts (Psalm 49:1-3). He reflects on the folly of those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches, for no man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for them (Psalm 49:6-7). The psalm starkly states that the wise and the foolish alike perish and leave their wealth to others (Psalm 49:10).

Moral Lesson

The central moral lesson of Psalm 49 is the transient nature of earthly wealth. It teaches us that we cannot rely on our possessions to save us from death or to buy us favor in the afterlife. The psalmist emphasizes that true wisdom lies in understanding our mortal condition and seeking a relationship with the Divine that transcends material concerns, as we take on LIFE through Jesus Christ, which is the real LIFE….and only LIFE we should seek.

Thoughts to Take Away

Psalm 49 reminds us that while wealth can provide comfort, it cannot offer salvation or lasting happiness. The true measure of a life well-lived is not found in the abundance of possessions but in the richness of wisdom and the depth of one’s relationship with God. Let us then seek the treasure that endures, the wisdom that guides, and the love that never fades.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I measure my worth—is it by my possessions or my character?
  2. In what ways have I allowed the pursuit of wealth to overshadow my spiritual growth?
  3. What legacy do I wish to leave behind that is of true value?

Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, grant us the wisdom to discern the fleeting from the everlasting. Help us to invest not in the treasures that moth and rust destroy, but in the love and wisdom that endure forever. May we find comfort in Your Word, and all of Your commandments, and may we seek You alone in all we set to do, today, and all the days of our lives, as we humbly serve You, and do all according to Your will and purpose, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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“I pray that upon reflection of Psalm 49, we consider the impermanence of material wealth and the enduring value of spiritual riches. May we carry forward the understanding that our time here is limited, but the wisdom we acquire, the grace we received from the LORD, and the love we share have eternal significance, today and all the days of our lives, and beyond…”

 

Day 636 – God's Wisdom, Your Wisdom – Proverbs 15 - Wisdom-Trek

DEAR GOD: The Love From Mother – Is Love From You~

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Bible Verses About Mother's Love - CHURCHGISTS.COM

 

The Love of a Mother: A Reflection of Divine Affection

The love of a mother is a profound and sacred sentiment that has been celebrated and revered throughout history. It is a love that is pure, selfless, and enduring, often serving as the first and most enduring love one experiences. The Bible, particularly in the New King James Version (NKJV), offers us a glimpse into the depth of a mother’s love and its reflection of God’s love for us.

Scriptural Support

The scriptures are replete with verses that extol the virtues of a mother’s love. In Isaiah 66:13, we are comforted by the words, “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; and you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”

This verse not only highlights the comforting nature of a mother’s love but also likens it to the comfort that God provides, suggesting a divine quality within it1.

Similarly, Proverbs 31:25-30 describes the strength and dignity of a mother, her wisdom, and her fear of the Lord, which are more precious than jewels. This passage paints a picture of a mother as someone who is strong yet gentle, wise yet humble, and valued beyond measure1.

Morals and Reflection

The love of a mother teaches us about sacrifice, patience, and unconditional love. It asks us to consider how we can emulate such love in our own lives. How can we show selflessness in our actions? How can we offer comfort and support to those in need? These questions prompt us to reflect on the morals instilled in us through a mother’s love and challenge us to live up to those ideals.

Thoughts to Take Away

As we ponder the scriptures and the love of a mother, let us take away the understanding that love is the greatest gift we can give and receive. It is a reflection of God’s love for us, a love that is boundless and eternal. May we strive to give love as mother’s love, with all the tenderness, strength, and devotion that it entails.

For those who have lost their dear mothers (like me- 9 years ago tomorrow) keep that love within your heart, embrace it going forward, remembering that love as you “love those around you” today and always.

For those of you who are fortunate and blessed to have their mom’s today celebrating this day, hug them a little longer than you normally would, hold them and tell them “thank you Mom” for all your sacrifices, and your love that made me who I am today.  Life is short, and fleeting. Enjoy the moment. Enjoy the second. Enjoy the minutes of life as it is.

Deeper Thoughts & Reflections

In the love of a mother, we see the hand of God, shaping and guiding us with a love that is as vast as the universe. Let us honor that love by living lives that reflect its beauty and grace. Reflecting on the love of a mother and the scriptures, we are reminded of the powerful bond that exists between a mother and her children.

It is a bond that teaches us about the very nature of love itself – a love that is nurturing, protective, and reflective of the divine. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we always hold dear the lessons learned from a mother’s love and the ultimate love of God, who is above all.

Prayer of Unity:

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of mothers, for their love that mirrors Your divine affection. May we cherish and honor them as they have cherished and nurtured us. Bless them with strength, wisdom, and joy. Help us to embody the love they have shown us, to be selfless, patient, and kind. May their example lead us closer to You, the source of all love, in Jesus precious name we pray, Amen.”

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May these verses and this post remind us that all love is from God-and especially the love of “mom” -which second only to God- is the quintessential love of our lives, from gestation, to birth, childhood, teen years, adult years, and beyond, mom’s love endures, as most important God’s love endures, forever and ever…

 

The loveliest masterpiece of God is the heart of a Mother. | Happy ...

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Glorifying You Always ~

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Giving Glory to God

Now it happened as He went to Jerusalem that He passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. Then as He entered a certain village, there met Him ten men who were lepers, who stood afar off. And they lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!”

Luke 17:11-19 (KJV)

In the Gospel of Luke, we find a poignant narrative that captures the essence of gratitude in the story of the ten lepers. We will explore the scriptural account, its moral implications, the significance of gratitude to Jesus, its relevance in today’s world, and how we might glorify Him in our thoughts, ways, voice.

Scriptural Account

The story unfolds in Luke 17:11-19, where ten lepers encounter Jesus. They stand at a distance, as was customary for lepers, and call out for mercy. Jesus responds by instructing them to show themselves to the priests, and as they go, they are miraculously healed. However, only one—a Samaritan—returns to express his gratitude to Jesus. Jesus acknowledges this act with poignant questions about the absence of the nine and concludes by affirming the Samaritan’s faith.

Moral and Reflections

The moral of this story is multifaceted. Primarily, it teaches us the importance of gratitude and how we should always honor and thank the LORD in all we do. The Samaritan leper’s return to thank Jesus is a testament to a heart transformed by grace. It also highlights the often-overlooked blessings in our lives and the importance of acknowledging them.

Significance to Jesus

To Jesus, the Samaritan’s gratitude was more than a social courtesy; it was an expression of deep faith and recognition of God’s power in His healing. It signifies a relationship with the Divine that is conscious and appreciative of His works. And it is an example of being humble and surrendering to the power and significance of who Christ is.

Relevance in Today’s World

In a world often characterized by entitlement and instant gratification, the story of the thankful leper stands as a counter-cultural beacon. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness, even in a society that may not always recognize or reward it.  It is a call for us to walk in the light. It is a call for us to acknowledge the LORD in all we do, through good times and bad. It is a way for us to enjoy the rewards and grace of the LORD as He extends us His love.

Reflective Questions

  • How often do we take the time to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives?
  • In what ways can we cultivate a more thankful heart?

Closing Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the countless blessings You bestow upon us. Help us to have hearts like the thankful leper, recognizing Your hand in every aspect of our lives. May our gratitude be a reflection of our faith, and may it draw us closer to You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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As we reflect on the story of the thankful leper, let us carry the moral of gratitude into our daily lives. Let it be a guiding principle that shapes our interactions and our perspective on the world around us. For in gratitude, we find a path to contentment and a deeper connection with the Divine.