Christ

DEAR GOD: You Are My Lifeguard – Forever~

by // // No Comments

God Is My Lifeguard Psalm 141:8 - YouTube

The Everlasting Watch

In the quiet moments of reflection, amidst the bustling noise of life, there is a profound truth that brings comfort to the soul: Jesus is watching over us, constantly, all the days of our lives. This devotional will attempt to explore this comforting Presence, supported by verses.

Divine Vigilance

The Bible is replete with assurances of God’s watchful eye. In Genesis 28:15, God promises Jacob, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.” -This covenant, extended through Jesus, assures us of an unceasing divine presence.

Similarly, Psalm 121:8 affirms, “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore,”– encapsulating the eternal nature of God’s guardianship.

A Personal Testament

Life is a tapestry of experiences and emotions, woven with threads of joy and sorrow. Through each season, the belief that Jesus watches over us has been my anchor. In times of triumph, His gaze has been my affirmation; in moments of despair, His sight has brought solace. This constant surveillance is not one of judgment, but of unwavering love and guidance.

Reflections on Divine Presence

The scriptures tell us that Jesus’ love is steadfast, and His watchfulness never wanes. In Matthew 28:20, Jesus reassures us, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This promise of companionship is not just for a moment or a day, but for a lifetime and beyond.

The Comfort of Constant Care

Knowing that Jesus is always with us provides a profound sense of comfort. He is all things to us -loving Presence, a royal King, a guardian angel, or lifeguard- whose eyes are filled with kindness, ready to guide us through every decision and comfort us in every trial. His watchful care is a beacon of hope in a world that can often feel uncertain and tumultuous- and at times – extremely dark!

Living Under the Watchful Eye

Living with the awareness of Jesus’ constant Presence can transform our lives. It encourages us to live with integrity, knowing that we are always in the presence of a divine and all-consuming love. It also inspires us to extend that same care and attention to others, reflecting Jesus’ love through our very own actions, and lifestyle.

As we ponder the Omnipresence of Jesus, let us take solace in the knowledge that we are never alone, and His love surrounds us all the days of our lives.

  1. How does the knowledge of Jesus’ constant presence influence your daily life?
  2. In what ways have you felt Jesus watching over and guiding you?
  3. How can we become more aware of Jesus’ presence in our lives?

 “Dear Heavenly Father, we are eternally grateful for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who watches over us day and night. May we always feel the warmth of His love and the security of His watchful eyes. Help us to live in a way that honors Your constant presence in our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

May I extend an open invitation for all to reflect and deepen your appreciation for the ever-present watchfulness of Jesus, and His love, and may it inspire you to seek His presence in every aspect of your lives. His grace and love are open to all and anyone, and He is waiting – always!”

DEAR GOD: You Are Worthy~

by // // No Comments

Christ is Worthy – Pleading in Prayer

Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with Him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith –
Luke 12:7 (NLT)

The Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ

Philippians 3:8-9 is a profound declaration by the Apostle Paul about the value of knowing Christ. These verses encapsulate the essence of Paul’s faith and the transformation it wrought in his life.

Renouncing All for Christ

Paul speaks of renouncing all things for the sake of Christ. He considers them “loss” compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus as his Lord. For Paul, this knowledge is not merely intellectual; it is a relational, experiential knowledge that has the power to transform one’s entire being.

The Righteousness from God

In verse 9, Paul contrasts his former life of legalistic righteousness with the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. This righteousness is not self-derived; it is given by God on the basis of faith. It is a righteousness that aligns us with God’s own character and purposes.

The Intimate Knowledge of Christ

Paul’s desire to “gain Christ” and be found in Him is an intimate expression of union with the Savior. It is a picture of complete identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, leading to a life that is fully immersed in the presence and power of Jesus.

 Philippians 3:8-9 invites us to consider the value of our own pursuits in light of the incomparable worth of knowing Christ. It challenges us to find our identity, not in our achievements or religious credentials, but in the righteousness that comes from God through faith in Jesus.

In this world, when we walk around in recognition of Christ and all He is – we are able to fulfill His will and purpose in our life more readily, when we are reinforced by His Word and love.

Being able to walk in confidence and know that He is with us always, we are able to do all things through Him who strengthens us. We are able to attain things easily and are able to proceed in all we endeavor during our day.

Christ is the One who is worthy and the One we should put first at all times, today, tomorrow and always. When we do that – we live a LIFE worth LIVING – because He is LIFE itself! Amen!

Let us pray:

“Dear Lord, thank You for the gift of knowing Christ, which surpasses all earthly gains. Help me to count all things as loss in comparison to the treasure of Your presence. May I be found in Christ, clothed in Your righteousness, and living by faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: May My Fasting Bring Me CLoser To You~

by // // No Comments

2019 prayer_and_fasting-PSD – Heartcry Chapel

Fasting and prayer are spiritual disciplines that have been practiced for centuries across various religious traditions. In the Christian faith, these practices are often observed together as a means to deepen one’s relationship with God, seek guidance, and express penitence.

Fasting, the voluntary abstinence from food or drink, is a physical expression of one’s spiritual desire for communion with God. It is an act of humility, acknowledging one’s dependence on God for sustenance. By setting aside the temporary comfort of food, believers can focus more intently on their spiritual nourishment through prayer and meditation on the Scriptures.

Prayer is the communication with God, where one can praise, confess, give thanks, and petition. It is a time to align one’s will with God’s, to seek forgiveness, and to intercede for others. Prayer can be a source of strength and comfort, especially during times of fasting when physical weakness reminds us of our spiritual need.

The combination of fasting and prayer can lead to a heightened sense of spiritual awareness. It can help believers to detach from worldly distractions and draw closer to God, seeking His will and guidance. The Bible offers several examples of individuals and communities who fasted and prayed, often during critical moments or decisions, showing their reliance on God’s direction and strength.

Biblical Support:

  • Matthew 6:16-18 – Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing that it should not be done for show, but rather in a way that is not obvious to others.
  • Acts 13:2-3 – The early church fasted and prayed before sending off Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey.
  • James 5:13-16 – Believers are encouraged to pray in all circumstances, and the prayer of faith will heal the sick.

Fasting can also be giving up one’s indulgences for a while and concentrating on the LORD, fully and completely. It is the ability to focus in on the LORD with all of your given body, mind and soul…and presenting yourself wholly and humbly to the LORD. It is a representation of your faith and your love for the LORD, and consequently will be a vow of belief in Him and all He is.

When we turn in prayer to the One above and bring our meditations and heart to Him, He will surely hear from heaven, and will answer according to His time table, not ours!

“My Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, seeking Your presence through fasting and prayer. May my spirit be nourished by Your Word and my heart aligned with Your will. Grant me the strength to pursue You wholeheartedly, and may my discipline be a testament to my utmost desire for closeness with You. Bless me with wisdom and clarity, and let my actions reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ precious name I pray, Amen. 🙏”

DEAR GOD: May We Walk In Humility & Spirit~

by // // No Comments

Humility - The first virtue

The Humility and Servanthood of Jesus: A Path to True Greatness

In the teachings of Jesus Christ, humility and servanthood are not just virtues to be admired but are essential qualities that define the very nature of what it means to be a follower of God. Jesus, in His life and ministry, exemplified these traits and instructed His disciples to do the same, promising that such a path leads to true greatness and the pleasure of the Father. In the tapestry of Christian doctrine, the figure of Jesus stands as the epitome of divine love and humble service. His earthly ministry, as depicted in the Gospels, provides a profound narrative of selfless servitude—a model for humanity to emulate in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment and the heavenly promise.

Humility: The Foundation of Servanthood

Humility is the foundation upon which servanthood is built. It is the ability to see oneself accurately, neither inflated.

Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

The Essence of Divine Love

At the heart of Jesus’ teachings is the commandment to love. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). This divine love is sacrificial, unconditional, and all-encompassing. It is a love that transcends human understanding and speaks to the very nature of God, as stated in 1 John 4:8-“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

Jesus, the Humble Servant

Jesus’ life was a testament to humility. He, who was revered as the Messiah, chose not to exalt Himself but to serve others. Philippians 2:6-7- reflects this humility, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” His washing of the disciples’ feet John 13:1-17 is a symbolic act that underscores His commitment to servitude.

The Call to Follow

Christians are called to follow Jesus’ example. In Matthew 20:26-28, Jesus articulates this call, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This passage invites believers to a life of service, suggesting that the path to greatness and ultimately to heaven is paved with humility and servitude.

Living the Doctrine

To live according to Jesus’ doctrine is to embody love and humility in every aspect of life. It means to prioritize the needs of others, to offer compassion and assistance, and to forsake the ego’s clamor for recognition and power. Galatians 5:13-14 exhorts, “Serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ “Recognition and power. Galatians 5:13-14 exhorts, “Serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

The Reward of Heaven

The promise of heaven is intertwined with the practice of Jesus’ teachings. It is not merely a destination but a state of being that begins in the here and now, through the daily acts of love and service.

As Jesus assures in Matthew 25:34-40, the Kingdom of Heaven awaits those who serve “the least of these,” for in serving them, they serve Christ Himself.

In Closing –

The humble servitude of Jesus is more than a historical account; it is a living invitation to walk a path of love, service, and humility. By following His example, believers open themselves to the transformative power of divine love, which leads to a life of fulfillment on earth and the eternal joy of heaven.

“ O Lord, our Shepherd and Guide, may we walk in the footsteps of Your Son, Embracing His love, His humility, His light. Teach us to serve as He served, to love as He loved, to carry our cross with the grace He bestowed. May our hearts be ever open, our hands ever ready, our spirits ever willing, to be Your instruments of peace and love. Lead us on the path to Your heavenly kingdom, where love reigns supreme, and servitude is the crown of life. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Guide Me Daily With Your Hands Of Love

by // // No Comments

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Is at Hand ...

The Guiding Hand of Unconditional Love

In the journey of life, amidst the tumult of uncertainty and the crossroads of decision-making, there exists a guiding light that transcends human understanding – the will of God. It is a concept deeply rooted in faith, a belief that there is a divine plan for each of us, crafted with the threads of unconditional love.

The Bible, a cornerstone of Christian faith, offers insight into this divine will through its verses. One such verse is Jeremiah 29:11, which says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This verse encapsulates the essence of God’s will – a promise of protection, prosperity, and a hopeful tomorrow.

God’s will is not a rigid path, but a fluid journey that adapts to the choices we make, always seeking our ultimate good. It is in the quiet whispers of our conscience, the serendipitous moments that seem more than mere coincidence, and the sense of peace that comes from making choices aligned with love and truth.

His unconditional love is the compass that guides us. It is unwavering, all-encompassing, and forgiving. It is the hand that holds us during our weakest moments and the voice that celebrates our triumphs. In a world where conditions and stipulations often taint love, God’s love remains pure, asking nothing in return but our willingness to accept it.

To live within the will of God is to choose a life of love, compassion, and kindness. It is to see others through the lens of grace and to act with the intention of bringing light into darkness. It is to trust in the journey, even when the destination is not in sight, and to believe that every step we take is a step towards a greater purpose.

In conclusion, the will of God for our lives is not a destination but a way of living. It is a path marked by His unconditional love, guiding us gently towards a future filled with hope. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we always be attuned to this divine guidance, finding comfort in the knowledge that we are never alone.

This should resonate with those of faith while it provides comfort in the knowledge of the Word of God.  It also provides a deeper reflection of God’s magnificence in the grand scheme of life overall. He is always with us and never ceases to care or watch over us. He knows what you’re thinking this very moment in time. And He knows the trials and tribulations you’ve gone through (with His help) and what is coming down the road. But the important thing to take away for life is the realization that He is in control. That is all it amounts to– God is ALWAYS in control.

As Jesus said, “Don’t worry about tomorrow, for today has its own troubles” and no amount of worrying or thinking about issues, whatever they may be, will change the outcome. Only God can do that. Because with God nothing is impossible.

Romans 5:8 – “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This verse highlights the unconditional nature of God’s love, demonstrating that His love is not contingent upon our actions or worthiness.

1 John 4:16 – “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 emphasizes that God is the embodiment of love and that by living in love, we live in God and experience His guidance.

These verses reinforce the message that God’s will for our lives is rooted in His love, which guides us and shapes our future with hope and purpose. Prayer, dedication, reflection, and obedience in His Word is the quintessential aspect of LIFE!

And CHRIST is LIFE – and He gives it freely and in abundance for those of us willing to believe that He is our Savior, and Son of God.

Have you accepted Him as your LORD and Savior? Are you in His Word daily? Do you recognize that He is in control of everything in this Universe and your life?

“Father, thank You for being in control of all things, I know that You have only the best plans for my life, and that You are with me always, help me to stay on course in Your Word, Your love, and Your commandments, each day of my life may I walk in abject humility toward You and others, and may I faithfully serve You all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Your Divine Love Amazes Me~

by // // No Comments

The Love of God - Lyrics, Hymn Meaning and Story

The Embrace of Divine Love: A Reflection on God’s Unwavering Forgiveness

In the tapestry of human existence, the threads of divine love and forgiveness are interwoven with the very essence of our being. God’s love, a beacon of hope in the tumultuous sea of life, shines forth, guiding us back to the harbor of His grace. This love is not a fleeting sentiment but an enduring promise, a testament to the boundless compassion that forgives and embraces us, His children, despite our transgressions.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

The narrative of humanity is marked by imperfection; we stumble and fall, wander and stray. Yet, in the midst of our failings, the Creator’s forgiveness remains unwavering, a constant invitation to return to the fold. It is a forgiveness that does not keep a tally of wrongs but offers a clean slate, time and again.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

God’s forgiveness is not merely an act of erasing our misdeeds; it is an act of restoration. It breathes new life into our weary souls, mends our broken spirits, and renews our strength to rise above our human frailties. In His forgiveness, we find the courage to forgive ourselves and others, to let go of the chains of guilt and embrace the freedom of redemption.

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will He harbor His anger forever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” (Psalm 103:8-10)

As we navigate the journey of life, let us hold fast to the truth of God’s enduring love and unwavering forgiveness. May we reflect His love in our actions, extend His forgiveness to our neighbors, and embody the grace that has been so generously bestowed upon us. For in the heart of the divine, we are forever cherished, forever forgiven, and forever held in the embrace of a love that knows no end.

This essay reflects on the profound nature of God’s love and forgiveness, drawing from the rich well of scriptural wisdom.

May it inspire a deeper appreciation for the divine mercy that surrounds us each day, only offered by and through Jesus Christ. Amen!  🙌

“Father, thank You for Your unsurpassed and altruistic love, Your heart and gentle ways surround me daily, I am in constant awe of Your Omnipotence and brilliant Light, may I be led daily by Your grace, Your Word, and Your direction, may I walk humbly and with a gracious manner, and be a reflection of You in my actions, words, and thoughts, may I walk the path of righteousness in and of You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Word Is Hidden In My Heart~

by // // No Comments

Message: “Hidden In My Heart” from Pastor Steve Wells – North Pointe ...

Psalm 119:11 -I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

Psalm 119:11, is one of the many verses in the Bible that emphasize the importance of hiding God’s word in the heart. It means that by memorizing and meditating on God’s word, we can resist the temptation to sin and obey God’s will. When we do so we are reassured and confident in His love and promises that we are able to sustain and stand in conflict, dark days and all the rest in between moments of our lives. He is the source of all in which our life sustainability flows. His love is the tower in which we are able to stand over all adversities that befall us in any given day, at any given moment in time.

Deuteronomy 6:6: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.”

When we live with His commandments in our hearts, we are able to seemingly flow through life with the ability and agility of a mountain goat that’s able to climb without incident.  We are able to stand firm in His love and His promises to each of us.

Colossians 3:16: “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

When Christ message fills within our heart and soul, we can attain all which He gives us to do. We can handle adversity with aplomb, and we can almost leap over tall buildings as Superman could! We can accomplish things that seem to be a Herculean task at any other time, but with His power and commandments and love – we are able to do things with ease.

Joshua 1:8: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

Keeping His Word firmly within our heart and soul, and meditating on it – and keeping it on our lips – we are able to sow roots of peace, and interact with those who do NOT know Christ or His love. We are able to encourage others with His Word, as it readily springs to our lips, due to our diligence and meditation on His Word.

My own original thoughts on these verses are that they show how God’s word is not only a source of information, but also a source of transformation.

By hiding God’s word in our hearts, we can change our thoughts, attitudes, and actions to align with God’s purposes.

God’s word can also give and provide us comfort, guidance, and hope in times of trouble. I think these verses are very relevant and practical for us today, as we face many challenges and temptations in our lives.

“Father, thank You for Your Word, Your love, and direction in all I do and say, with You I can attain anything You set out before me to accomplish, with You the darkness will be overcome with Your light, and the hatred in this world will be snuffed out by Your love, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: My Milestones Have All Been With You~

by // // No Comments

Milestones in Life - The Fit Club Network

 From the first breath of life God was there.
He is our Creator…and the Creator of all things.
But, getting back to our first breath of life…God was there.  With each breath thereafter, He was and is there.
As we went through all of the major milestones in life…He was and is there.
Our first step.
Our first word.
Our first day of school.
Our graduation.
Our engagement.
Our marriage.
Our First-born child.
Our first job.
Our first encounter with “death” of a loved one.
And so it goes – so on and so forth…

If we’re fortunate we will be blessed from above to be afforded the opportunities to go through all of the major milestones in our life. In so doing, we should embrace the chance to do so, and fully appreciate and comprehend that we’re loved by the LORD above.

He guides us and leads us on paths of righteousness if we seek Him with all of our heart, and acknowledge Him in all things, and lean not on our own understanding.   When we do these things, not through our own accord, but Him and love Him and keep from evil it will be health to our navel and marrow for our bones (Proverbs 3:5-8). 

In other words, we’ll be prosperous, and well-being in soul, and spirit, through Him and Him alone.

As we age-we sometimes will find ourselves in a hamster wheel or “rut” wondering, “what else is there for me to do?”  We might think, well, we’ve hit all the milestones, and we’ve done -A—thru—Z” now what?  Then we perhaps begin to ponder and ruminate in a redundant manner asking “Are we done here?  What else is there to look forward to?”

Well, as long as we’re here on earth, it means our time is not “done” and that we still have work to do for Him. We are to continue on the path of righteousness, even though it might not be abundantly clear, we still need to persevere and continue on.  The race isn’t over until God says it is. His timing. His way. His plans.

As we age, (if we are blessed to do so) we will see a lot of heartaches, people coming into our lives-and ostensibly, people going OUT of our lives. Including-but not limited to- the significant loss of special family members, friends- and YES, I will even include heartache from the loss of fur-babies along the way.  But, through this all- what is the common denominator for us? – That’s easy- God is there through it all!

We might hold on tighter in times of trouble and reach out to Him more so when the clouds loom large overhead. We may be in many situations where we feel as if we’re sitting under the sword of Damocles, as it hangs precariously overhead, just waiting to drop!

But He is there protecting us through it all. His hands of grace shielding and blocking us from being penetrated by harm. The storms of life will abate-and His rainbow will break through every single time.  You’ve got to know that and believe it.

Somehow, the Lord led me to write this.  He obviously feels someone out there needs to hear this.  So, whomever this is for, please know that God loves you, and you WILL get through this phase in your life. He is with you and will never forsake you. Ever! That His promise. And His truth and Word will endure forever.

The valley you’re currently in may be deep and dark – but with His hands of love, He will pull you out, and bring you to the mountain tops, and protect you under His precious wings of joy.

Know that God doesn’t tempt us above that which we can’t handle, and He never gives us more than we can handle, and He will always– ALWAYS–show you a way out of whatever it is you’re going through (1 Corinthians 10:13).

So, remember that we have a very significant role in life. We are all different in our own way-but we are all God’s children, and we each have a purpose in this lifetime. And, although we might be stumped- or in a “holding pattern” as we wait to see what He has in store for us-remember this: “God will always have another milestone for us, no matter our age, no matter our circumstance, and He will never leave nor forsake us. His word and His promises are everlasting, so too is His love.

And, when we take our “final breath” in our flesh bodies on this earth- then immediately take our “first breath” in our spiritual bodies as we enter Heaven– God will there- and at that time- for eternity! Hallelujah! Praise His Holy name! Amen!

“Father thank You for being there to hold me up through all of the moments and milestones in my life, for offering me Your love, Your hands of grace, and for Your promises that endure forever, you are my Lord, and I am Yours, in Jesus’ name, Amen.” 

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it- Isaiah 55:11

For ye shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands –Isaiah 55:12

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us-Hebrews 12:1

There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above that you are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it –1 Corinthians 10:13

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to your navel, and marrow to your bones. –Proverbs 3:5-8

DEAR GOD: You Heal Our Broken Hearts~

by // // No Comments

Healing for a broken heart – Rejoice in Him

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” –Matthew 5:41

 Grief is a journey that winds through the valley of despair, climbs the mountains of sorrow, and sometimes finds rest in the meadows of memory. It is a deeply personal and profound experience, unique to each individual, yet universally understood. The act of grieving, of allowing tears to flow for a loved one lost, is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the depth of our love.

In the sacred texts, we find solace and understanding. The scriptures speak to the heart of our pain, offering both comfort and permission to grieve. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” Jesus tells us in the Beatitudes. This assurance is a gentle reminder that our sorrow is seen, our tears are known, and our pain is acknowledged by a compassionate God.

The Psalms, too, are rich with the language of lament. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit,” the Psalmist writes, giving voice to our inner turmoil. In these ancient songs, we find a God who is not distant or disinterested but intimately acquainted with our grief.

As we navigate the tumultuous seas of loss, we may find ourselves questioning the purpose of our pain. Yet, even here, the scriptures offer wisdom. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away,” we read in Revelation. This vision of a future without suffering gives us hope that our grief is not in vain, that it leads us somewhere—a place of healing and wholeness.

In the midst of our grief, we are not alone. We are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses, both seen and unseen, who have walked this path before us. They remind us that to grieve is human, to cry is to honor the love we carry, and to mourn is to move towards healing.

Let us not rush through our grief, nor demand of ourselves a premature composure. Instead, let us grieve fully and deeply, as deeply as we loved. For in our tears, we find a sacred space where the heart can begin to heal, and the soul can start to mend.

 “Heavenly Father, In the quiet sanctuaries of our hearts, we come before You with tears that speak more eloquently than words. You, who collect all our tears in Your bottle, understand the language of our weeping. In our grief, grant us the grace to mourn, the strength to endure, and the hope of Your eternal comfort. May we feel Your presence in our sorrow and find peace in Your promises. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I Readily Submit To Your Will~

by // // No Comments

Are You Submitting to God? | worldchallenge.org

God’s will and timing are two important aspects of the Christian faith. God has a perfect plan for each of His children, and He knows the best time to execute it. Sometimes, we may feel impatient or frustrated when we don’t see God’s will or timing in our lives. We may wonder why He is delaying or what He is waiting for. But the Bible assures us that God is always working for our good and His glory, and that He has a purpose for everything that happens in our lives.

The following verses are some of the many verses that can let us trust God’s will and His perfect timing:

Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” -This reminds us that God has a perfect timing for everything that happens in our lives. He knows when to give and when to take away, when to bless and when to test, when to open and when to close doors. We can trust that He always has a reason for every season in our lives, and that He will make everything beautiful in His own time.

Psalm 27:14: “Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” – This encourages us to wait patiently for God’s will and timing, and not to lose hope or courage. Waiting on God is not a passive or idle activity, but an active and faithful one. It means to seek Him, to obey Him, to worship Him, and to expect Him to act on our behalf. As we wait on God, He will strengthen our hearts and renew our spirits.

Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This assures us that God has a good and perfect will for our lives, and that He is in control of our destiny. He does not intend to harm us, but to bless us and give us hope. He has a future for us that is beyond our imagination, and He will fulfill His promises to us in His time and way.

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse teaches us to trust God’s will and timing, and not to rely on our own wisdom or understanding. We may not always understand why God does what He does, or when He does it, but we can trust that He knows what is best for us, and that He will guide us in the right direction. We can submit to His will and follow His lead, and He will make our paths straight and clear.

Some of my thoughts on God’s will and timing based on the above verses –God’s will and timing are not always the same as ours, but they are always better than ours. We may have our own plans and preferences, but God’s plans and purposes are higher and deeper than ours. He sees the big overall picture and the end results, whereas we only see the present and the partial.

He knows what we need and what we don’t, what will help us and what will hurt us, what will grow us and what will stunt us. He knows the best way and the best time to accomplish His will in our lives, and He will not be late or early, but right on time.

God’s will and timing are not always easy or comfortable, but they are always beneficial and rewarding. We may face challenges and difficulties, trials and temptations, delays and detours, as we follow God’s will and timing.

We may experience pain and sorrow, loss and grief, frustration and disappointment, as we wait for God’s will and timing. But we can be assured that God is working all things together for our good and His glory, and that He will not waste any of our experiences or emotions. He will use them to shape us, to teach us, to refine us, and to prepare us for His will and timing. He will reward us with His peace, His joy, His presence, and His promises, as we trust Him and obey Him.

God’s will and timing are not always clear or obvious, but they are always revealed and confirmed. We may not always know what God’s will and timing are for our lives, or how to discern them. We may have doubts and questions, confusion and uncertainty, as we seek God’s will and timing. But we can be confident that God will reveal and confirm His will and timing to us, as we seek Him with all our hearts, as we study His word, as we listen to His voice, as we follow His guidance, and as we consult His people.

The truth is -He will always make His will and timing known to us eventually. But we need to ask Him, as we knock on His door, and as we seek His face.

I hope these verses and thoughts have helped you to understand and appreciate God’s will and timing more. God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.

He is faithful and trustworthy, and He will accomplish His will and timing in your life, in His time, by His will, for His glory. God bless you- 😊

“Father, thank You for always looking out for me, for being faithful and loving me no matter what, thank You for Your perfect timing, and will for my life, may I always hear Your voice, submit to Your will and purpose for my life, and live according to Your Word and plans, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

Submit to God in All Situations – Better Life World

 

Amen!