Christ

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Forgive Each Other~

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David Platt Quote: “Forgiveness is God’s greatest gift because it meets ...

Forgiveness is a divine attribute, often emphasized in the teachings of Christianity as a pathway to spiritual liberation and eternal life. The Bible offers profound insights into the nature of forgiveness and its indispensable role in our spiritual journey.

The Essence of Forgiveness- Forgiveness is not merely an act but a state of heart and mind that reflects the grace of God. Ephesians 4:32 implores us to be “kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” This truly sets the stage for what we are supposed to do as Christians, this verse encapsulates the essence of Christian forgiveness: a reflection of His Divine and intimate and unmerited mercy.

The Mandate to Forgive- In Mark 11:25, we are instructed, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” This directive makes it crystal clear that our forgiveness is ultimately intertwined with God’s forgiveness. To receive, we must give. And it is commanded, not asked – it is from Jesus’ lips to those in attendance all those years ago, and right up to this very second in time – throughout the generations.

The Consequence of Unforgiveness- Matthew 6:15 starkly warns, “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” This particular implication is starkly profound; our salvation hinges on our capacity to forgive. It is a prerequisite for entering heaven, as unforgiveness is a barrier between the soul and God. The barrier of unforgiveness is easy to break down. All we have to do is FORGIVE others, as God will forgive us. If we don’t there is going to be an impasse in Heaven come judgement day. There are several passages in the Bible that ascribe to that message. Have you read them lately?

The Power of Forgiveness -Forgiveness has the power to transform lives. It liberates the forgiver from the chains of bitterness and grants the forgiven a chance for redemption. Colossians 3:13 encourages us to “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” It is a call to emulate Christ’s boundless forgiveness. It is a call and His voice of reason reaching out to us – offering us the opportunity to be with Him forever in the Eternity. It is the branch that will connect us to Christ forever when we are called home one day. Repentance and forgiveness and embracing our Savior Jesus Christ – that is our golden ticket into the realm of Heaven and eternity.

Conclusion -In conclusion, forgiveness is not optional but essential for those who seek Heaven. It is a divine and direct command, a moral imperative, and a spiritual necessity. As we forgive, we mirror the love of Christ and open the doors to God’s Kingdom. The door are thrown wide open for us to step inside, once we listen to and fulfill His commandments.

Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door to Eternal peace and communion with our Divine Father of mercy and love. Let us hold fast to this truth and walk the path of forgiveness, for it is the way to Heaven, and a securing a seat at the Lamb’s banquet!

Prayer for Forgiveness –

“Dear Father, we come before You seeking the strength to forgive, as You have forgiven us. Grant us tender hearts that readily release any grudges and embrace Your command to love. May our forgiveness be a testament to Your mercy, leading us closer to You and the promise of heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Love Is Boundless~

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The Boundless Love of God - Preachers Corner

The Boundless Love of God

The essence of God’s love is captured in the relationship between the Father and the Son, a love that extends to all His children. This amazing great love is not merely an emotion, but an active force that has been demonstrated throughout history and recorded in the Scriptures. It extends into the streaming years of generations after generation!

God’s Love for His Son

The love of God for His Son, Jesus Christ, is profound and eternal. In Matthew 3:17, as Jesus was baptized, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This declaration not only affirms the special relationship between the Father and the Son but also sets the foundation for the love that would be extended to humanity. It is the quintessential and all-consuming love He offers every single day to ALL of His children. And to those who love Him, His provisions and blessings are endless, and beyond the scope of all human understanding!

God’s Love for His Children

God’s love for His children is vividly portrayed in the sacrifice of His Son. Romans 5:8 states, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This sacrificial love is the cornerstone of Christian faith, illustrating that God’s love is unconditional and available to all who believe. Anyone and everyone has an ‘open invitation’ to experience and be a part of the body of Christ, and guided by the Holy Spirit that dwells within all His believers!

The Bible Depicts The Support God’s Love

The Bible is replete with verses that testify to God’s love. John 3:16 is perhaps the most well-known, declaring, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This verse encapsulates the breadth and depth of God’s love, emphasizing its sacrificial nature and the promise of eternal life.

Another powerful verse is 1 John 4:16, which says, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” This verse not only identifies God as love itself but also invites us to dwell in that love, assuring us of His constant Presence. Brings to us full confidence and assurance to the Presence of His Spirit. We are able to withstand and pursue things we cannot do otherwise. It is because of His love and faithful promises, we are able to LIVE LIFE!

Conclusion

The love of God is a theme that runs deep and wide through the intricate mosaic themes of Christian theology. It is a love that knows no bounds. A love that forgives and redeems. A love that sustains and nurtures. As children of God, we are the blessed recipients, although – NOT worthy- of this magnificent love, a love that calls us to live in harmony with one another and with our Creator, our King of kings, and LORD of lord, our Almighty and Loving Father, God!

 “Father, I wish to thank You for Your great love for me, You have shown me the full extent of this love in the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May I dwell in Your love, and extend it to others, living as a true reflection of Your grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen”

May this devotional resonate with the depth of God’s love He has for all of His children.  

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Protection~

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Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit ...Christ’s Protection of His Children

In the Christian faith, the protection of Christ over His children is a fundamental belief that offers comfort and assurance to believers. The Bible is replete with passages that affirm this divine safeguarding, portraying Christ as a shepherd who watches over His flock with unwavering vigilance and care. He is the constant source of comfort and His promises and love cover us all with an assurance that brings an inner peace.

When we aspire to do all according to His will and purpose in our lives, we are able to navigate life and the highways of both good and bad, all the days we are here on earth.

We are able to find the wisdom in cirucmstances that we ordinarily wouldn’t find if we didn’t have Christ as our foundation.

When we follow Him, and all that entails – such as being in the Word daily, praying, meditating on His Word, reflecting on His will, and displaying a Christian countenance from within allowing His Spirit to shine, we are assured safe passage in our lives here, and into the eternity!

The Nature of Christ’s Protection

Christ’s protection is not merely a physical safeguard but encompasses spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions. It is a holistic shield that guards the soul from the perils of sin and the despair of life’s tribulations. This protection is vividly illustrated in Psalm 23, where David acknowledges the Lord as his shepherd, leading him beside still waters and restoring his soul, even as he walks through the valley of the shadow of death. This is such a comforting Psalm.

Most people associate Psalm 23 with death, when in fact it is an affirmation of LIFE and the promises of Christ and His love for His children!

The Assurance of Safety

Believers find solace in the promise that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38-39). This assurance is not a guarantee against hardship but a testament to the enduring presence of Christ in the midst of life’s storms. It is the conviction that, come what may, Christ’s love remains a bulwark against the forces that seek to harm His children.

That Christ is with us at the helm of the ship in the battered storms at sea. That He is with us through the fires of tribulations and battles in life. That He will guide us and bring us through it all without fail!

Reflection Questions:

  1. How have you experienced Christ’s protection in your own life?
  2. In what ways can we become more aware of Christ’s presence during difficult times?
  3. What role does faith play in feeling protected by Christ?

 “Heavenly Father, we thank You for the protection that Your Son, Christ, extends over us. May we always feel the comfort of His watchful eye and the strength of His loving arms. Help us to trust in His guidance and to rest in the assurance of His care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Example Of Righteous Anger~

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New Testament 2, Lesson 2: Jesus Clears the Temple - Seeds of Faith Podcast

And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 13 He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.”  –
Matthew 21:12-13 (ESV)

Jesus’ Righteous Anger
Jesus clears the temple and chastises the moneychangers. His righteous anger was palpable in this moment. Taking a corded whip to the sinners, sellers of animals, and money changers, chasing them from His Father’s house of worship.

This Holy Week that leads up to Good Friday, and the Resurrection of Christ – let’s all take time to reflect on His love, and His work, and His mission.

What is the most outstanding thing you can say about Jesus? How do you feel about His righteous anger chasing the merchants out of His Father’s house?

Reflect on inner righteousness and the need for true worship. Continue this pattern of reflection and prayer throughout the week, culminating in Resurrection Sunday. Truly devoting your time and thoughts and expressions of love to the LORD. Think about Jesus’ actions, and why He acted the way He did.

Jesus’ anger is a facet of His divine character, exemplifying His intolerance for sin and injustice. Unlike human anger, which can stem from selfish motives, Jesus’ anger is always pure and directed towards actions that contradict God’s holy standards.

For instance, when Jesus cleared the temple of money changers, His anger was not a loss of control but a deliberate response to the desecration of a sacred space.

This act of cleansing was a powerful statement against the exploitation within the house of worship and a call to honor God with sincerity and reverence.

Jesus’ Unconditional Love
In stark contrast to His righteous anger, Jesus’ love is the epitome of grace and mercy. His love is proactive, sacrificial, and inclusive, extending even to those who opposed Him.

Jesus demonstrated this love vividly when He washed the feet of His disciples, including Judas, who would betray Him. This humble act serves as a profound lesson in servitude and unconditional love.

Moreover, His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where He bore the sins of humanity, stands as the greatest testament to His love. Jesus’ love is not passive; it seeks out the lost, heals the broken, and restores the repentant

Reflecting on Jesus’ life, we find a perfect balance between His zeal for God’s holiness and His compassion for humanity. His actions and teachings guide us to live lives that honor God and serve others with a heart full of love. And when doing so, we are His ultimate vessels in fulfilling His Words in Matthew 28:20 “Go out and teach the gospel to all the nations, and lo I am with you always, even until the end of the age…”

May His love show us, lead us, and guide us in the purpose of our lives according to His will, this week and all the days of our lives.

Closing prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, I stand in awe of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who embodies both righteous anger against sin and boundless love for sinners. Teach me to emulate His passion for justice and His compassion for people. May I always be zealous for Your house and tender towards Your creation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” 🙏

 

 

 

 

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DEAR GOD: You Are My Shepherd – Forever~

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Image result for free pictures of psalm 23

Psalm 23, often called “The Lord is My Shepherd,” is one of the most cherished passages in the Bible, offering comfort and hope to believers throughout the ages. Its verses paint a serene picture of God’s guidance, provision, and protection, akin to a shepherd’s care for his sheep.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) This opening line establishes a profound trust in God’s provision. Christians see this as a declaration of God’s sufficiency in all aspects of life. Just as a shepherd meets the needs of his flock, so does God meet the needs of His people.

“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” (Psalm 23:2) Here, the psalmist describes a place of rest and refreshment, symbolizing the spiritual peace and rejuvenation that God provides. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites the weary to come to Him for rest, echoing the sentiment of this verse.

“He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3) God’s restoration is likened to a renewal of strength and spirit. The “paths of righteousness” reflect a life lived in accordance with God’s will, guided by His truth as revealed in the Bible.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) Christians find solace in this verse, especially in times of trouble or grief. It speaks of God’s presence and protection in life’s darkest moments. The “rod and staff” are symbols of a shepherd’s tools, representing discipline and support.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalm 23:5) This imagery suggests honor and abundance, even amidst adversity. The anointing oil signifies blessing and being chosen by God, as kings were anointed in the Old Testament.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6) The psalm concludes with a confident expectation of God’s continual blessings and the ultimate hope of eternal life with Him, as promised in John 14:2-3, where Jesus speaks of preparing a place for His followers.

For Christians, Psalm 23 encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith: trust in God’s care, the peace that comes from His presence, guidance in living a righteous life, comfort in times of fear, the assurance of God’s blessings, and the hope of eternal life.

“Dear Heavenly Father, You are our Shepherd, and in Your care, we lack nothing. Lead us to the green pastures of Your grace and the still waters of Your peace. Restore our souls and guide us in righteousness. Even as we walk through challenging times, let us feel Your presence and find comfort in Your protection.  Bless us, Lord, and let Your goodness and mercy accompany us every day of our lives, until we dwell in Your house forever. Amen. ”

The Lord’s my Shepherd – Stuart Townend [with lyrics] (youtube.com)

The Lord Is My Shepherd

A Psalm of David.

Psalm 23 –

 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
   He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
     He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
    for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

DEAR GOD: Your Wisdom Fills My Soul~

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God’s Wisdom and Understanding Bible Verses – Scriptures – Passages ...

Wisdom of the LORD

The book of Proverbs is a fountain of wisdom, offering guidance and insight for a life well-lived. Among its many pearls, Proverbs 1:7 shines brightly, illuminating the path to true knowledge. This verse serves as a cornerstone, not only for the book itself but for understanding the nature of wisdom and learning.

 Fear of the LORD – Reverence-Love

The phrase “the fear of the LORD” is a recurring theme in Biblical literature, encapsulating a profound respect and reverence for the Almighty. It is not a fear born of terror- but one of awe and wonder at the majesty and Holiness of God.

It is the starting point, the very beginning of knowledge, because it positions the heart to receive Divine Inspiring truths. To fear the LORD is to acknowledge His Sovereignty and to submit to His higher wisdom. And to love Him fully and unconditionally, while placing Him first in all we do!

The Beginning of Knowledge

Knowledge, as mentioned in Proverbs, is not merely the accumulation of facts or the mastery of skills. It is a comprehensive understanding of life’s principles as they relate to our Creator’s design. The “beginning” of this knowledge is akin to the foundation of a building; it is the essential and necessary base upon which all other learning is constructed. Without this rock-solid foundation, any structure of knowledge we build is unstable and prone to collapse. Such as illustrated by Jesus in the parable about the wise man builds his house upon a rock, the fool builds it on sand!

Matthew 7:24-27 –“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.  And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

Fools Despise Wisdom and Instruction

In stark contrast to those who fear the LORD, the verse speaks of “fools” who despise wisdom and instruction. The term “fool” in Proverbs does not refer to a lack of intelligence, but to a moral deficiency. It describes individuals who are obstinate and arrogant, rejecting the guidance and correction that wisdom offers. Their disdain for instruction leads them away from the path of knowledge and ultimately to their downfall.

The Value of Divine Wisdom

Divine wisdom, as revealed through the scriptures, is invaluable. It transcends the temporal and touches the eternal, offering insights that are not bound by time or culture. The wisdom that begins with the fear of the LORD is enduring, leading to a life marked by understanding, righteousness, and peace.

In conclusion-

Proverbs 1:7 encapsulates the essence of Biblical wisdom. It teaches us that the fear of the LORD is not only the beginning of knowledge, but also the foundation upon which a meaningful life is built.

 “Dear Father God, I come before You in reverence and humility, acknowledging Your infinite wisdom and majesty. I thank You for the gift of Your Word, which lights my path and guides all of my steps daily. Instill in me and your children a fear of the LORD, that is pure, leading to the knowledge and understanding that You desire for me/us. Help me/us to be seekers of Your wisdom, to cherish Your instruction, and to walk in the ways of righteousness. May my life reflect Your love and grace, and may I serve as a beacon of Your light in the darkness. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: CLeanse Our Sins-Wash Us Clean~

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Pin on Said very well!Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.
Isaiah 1:16-17 (NLT)

Isaiah 1:16-17 calls for a profound transformation, urging individuals to cleanse themselves not just outwardly but inwardly, to cease doing evil and learn to do good. These verses highlight a pivotal theme in the prophetic literature: the importance of genuine righteousness over mere ritualistic compliance.

The passage begins with a command to “wash yourselves, make yourselves clean” (Isaiah 1:16), which echoes the purification rituals of the time. However, the prophet Isaiah is not merely concerned with physical cleanliness. The call to “remove the evil of your deeds from my sight” suggests a deeper, moral cleansing that is required, one that involves turning away from wickedness and embracing ethical living.

The subsequent verse, “learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause” (Isaiah 1:17), expands on this idea. It is not enough to stop doing evil; one must actively pursue good, particularly by seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of society. This reflects a core principle of the Hebrew prophets: social justice is an essential aspect of religious life.

Isaiah’s message is timeless, reminding us that true spirituality is demonstrated through actions that reflect God’s character, especially His concern for justice and mercy. The prophet’s words challenge us to examine our lives, to move beyond superficial piety, and to embody the divine attributes of justice and righteousness in our daily interactions.

We are not to be “holy” only one day a week at Sunday gatherings, church – but to do so daily and with an obedience to the LORD in all we say and act upon. We are to be reflections of the LORD’s light, as we encounter people along the way in life. We are to establish our roots of Christianity in a profound and dedicated fashion, offering all we do to the LORD!  We are to strengthen our resolve in affirming our faith all the days of our lives, and then to embrace the rewards of Eternity.

” Father, I come before You, humbled and aware of all my shortcomings. Your Word, through the prophet Isaiah, has shone a light on the path of righteousness that You desire for your children to walk. Lord, help me/us to wash away not just the dirt from my/our hands, but the malice from my/our hearts. Teach me/us to cease doing evil and to learn to do good. Instill in me/us a spirit of justice, that I/we may seek it fervently, correct oppression boldly, and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. May I/we bring Your justice to the fatherless and plead the widow’s cause with the strength and compassion You have shown us. Grant me/us the courage to live out my/our faith through actions that honor You and may my/our lives reflect Your love and mercy to the world. We ask this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”

L

DEAR GOD: You Are My Beacon & Light~

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Lighthouse Sunset

 

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
    whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
    of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:2 (ESV)

 

A Beacon of Light

Psalm 27, attributed to David, is a profound expression of faith and trust in the Lord amidst adversity. It begins with a declaration of confidence: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)1. This opening verse sets the tone for the entire psalm, encapsulating the psalmist’s unwavering belief that God is a protective and guiding force against all fears and foes.

The psalm oscillates between expressions of fearless trust and earnest pleas for God’s presence. David speaks of enemies and war, yet he remains confident. This juxtaposition highlights a central theme: the power of faith to provide stability and courage, even when one is surrounded by threats.

Then further on, it reveals the psalmist’s deepest desire: “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life” (Psalm 27:4 NIV) David yearns not for material wealth or victory over his enemies, but for the serene and continuous communion with God. This longing to be in God’s presence, to “gaze on the beauty of the Lord,” is a testament to the psalmist’s devotion.

The latter part of the psalm is a heartfelt plea for God’s mercy and guidance. David asks not to be forsaken and prays for deliverance from his adversaries. The emotional intensity of these verses conveys a sense of vulnerability, contrasting with the earlier declarations of confidence. It is a reminder that seeking God’s face is not a one-time act but a continual process of faith and reliance on divine guidance.

Psalm 27 concludes with an exhortation to “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14 NIV) This final verse encapsulates the essence of the psalm: a call to patience and courage, affirming that trust in God is rewarded with strength and the fulfillment of His promises.

In essence, Psalm 27 is a microcosm of the spiritual journey. It captures the oscillation between confidence and doubt, presence and absence, and ultimately, the enduring faith that guides the believer through life’s tumultuous seas. It serves as a beacon of trust and devotion, illuminating the path for all who seek solace and strength in the divine.

When we place all of our trust and hope in the LORD, there isn’t anything we can’t accomplish or withstand, through Christ our LORD.  Superfluous things are non-existent – there reality is Christ, and the desire to commune with Him on a daily and intimate basis. When we ascribe to His doctrine, and His will for our lives, we get come ALIVE in His Presence and His Word.

As we take on more and more of the Word into our mind, heart, and apply it to our lives as it were, we begin to have a sense of what life “really is.” Life here on earth is fleeting. We are gone in a blink of the eye! We can die suddenly. And if so – are you confident that you will be in the Lamb’s Book Of Life?

One thing is certain – we all will physically leave this earth one day. Our flesh bodies will die, and our spiritual bodies will live on. However, when judgement day comes – the question is – will we be ready?

How’s your relationship with the LORD? Do you seek Him daily? Do you desire to be with Him exclusively for eternity? As David so passionately cries and laments in Psalm 27 – He wants to dwell in the house of the LORD forever – Do you?

“Dearest Heavenly Father, In the sanctuary of Your presence, I find light and salvation. Whom shall I fear? For You are the stronghold of my life. I come before You with a heart full of gratitude, Thanking You for the assurance that You are always nearby. In times of trouble, You protect me; You set me high upon a rock. Lord, I seek one thing—to dwell in Your house forever, to gaze upon Your beauty and to seek You in Your temple. In the quiet moments, in the chaos of life, Your presence is my constant desire. I surrender to You, O Lord, my worries and my foes. For even if friends and family forsake me, You will receive me. Teach me Your way, lead me on a straight path, despite my adversaries. I believe I will see Your goodness in the land of the living. So, I wait for You, Lord; I am strong and take heart as I wait. Thank You for being my light, my salvation, my refuge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: I Will Always Give You Thanks & GLory~

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Thank You God Messages and Quotes For Everything - WishesMsg

And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
Luke 17:11-19 (KJV)

In Luke 17:11-19, we encounter a profound narrative that underscores the importance of gratitude in our relationship with God. This passage recounts the story of ten lepers who receive healing from Jesus, yet only one returns to offer thanks. This singular act of thankfulness from the Samaritan leper, an outsider, provides a stark contrast to the ingratitude shown by the other nine.

The journey of the ten lepers begins with a plea for mercy, to which Jesus responds with a directive to show themselves to the priests. As they obey, they are cleansed. This miracle, however, is not the focal point of the passage. Instead, the spotlight shines on the aftermath—on the one leper who, upon realizing his healing, returns to Jesus with a heart overflowing with gratitude. His actions stand as a testament to the recognition of God’s grace in his life.

The ingratitude of the nine should serve as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the ease with which we can take God’s blessings for granted. In their haste to return to normalcy, they forget the source of their blessing. The Samaritan leper’s return to Jesus is a powerful illustration of the proper response to divine intervention: a return to the presence of God to give thanks.

The conclusion we draw from this passage is clear: thankfulness is not merely a polite response to kindness; it is an essential component of a faithful life. It is a recognition of our dependence on God and an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and goodness. The act of giving thanks draws us closer to God, fostering a deeper appreciation for His work in our lives.

Heavenly Father, I come before You with heart full of gratitude, just as the Samaritan leper returned to give thanks for his healing, I too offer praise for the countless blessings You bestow upon me, teach me to always recognize Your hand in my life and to respond with a spirit of thankfulness, may my gratitude be a constant reminder of Your unfailing love and grace, in Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Sunrise & Your New Day~

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Beautiful Beach Sunrise Wallpapers - Top Free Beautiful Beach Sunrise ...

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“Therefore I hope in Him!”
Lamentations 3:22-24 (NKJV)

” Yes -Another day to thank God for all His goodness and to hope in the day, live in His Word, and follow His will for my life in all I do and say.”

God’s mercies are endless. His love for us – profoundly deep-and beyond our mortal comprehension. (John 3:16)

These verses from Lamentations resonate with a profound sense of hope and faithfulness that is central to many spiritual journeys. They reflect the enduring mercies and compassion of the Lord, which are renewed each day, affirming an unwavering faithfulness that provides solace and strength to believers.

In a similar vein, Psalm 36:5-7 speaks to the vastness of God’s love and righteousness, likening them to the heavens and the mountains, and His justice to the great deep. It is a poetic expression of the boundless nature of divine qualities.

Furthermore, Lamentations 3:22-23- verses -is a testament to the steadfast love of the Lord. Despite the afflictions and sorrows that may come, the passage offers reassurance that the Lord’s mercies prevent total despair, and His compassions are inexhaustible. It supports and reflects the love of the LORD that is all consuming and a balm to our very soul. His love is a peaceful ember that burns with warmth and compassion and concern for each of us.

His Word and voice are “heard” in verses such as Lamentations, and others like them- which offer a message of hope and reassurance.

They suggest that no matter the challenges faced, the Lord’s mercies are a wellspring of renewal and hope. The faithfulness of the Lord is constant, providing a foundation for trust and expectation of good things to come. His Word and message encourage individuals to maintain hope and to trust in the constancy of divine compassion and faithfulness of our Heavenly and Mighty Father above. And when we accept Him and his Word and His will for our lives – we will be successful in all that we endeavor to undertake, all the days of our lives.

Are you ready to thank Him today? Are You listening to His voice, and seeking His face in all you do? Well, it’s a new day-what are you waiting for?

In closing Prayer –

“Heavenly Father, Your mercies are new every morning, and Your faithfulness is as vast as the skies. I come before You with a grateful heart, acknowledging Your compassion that never fails. Lord, guide me through each day with Your wisdom and grace. May I find strength in Your promises and comfort in Your steadfast love. Help me to always remember Your Word, and to always trust in Your goodness and to rest in the assurance of Your care. In moments of uncertainty, remind me that You are my portion and my hope. Fill me with Your peace and courage to face each day with confidence in Your unending mercy. I thank You for Your love that surrounds me, and may I commit to Your ways, and I surrender to You, and Your will -In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”