Christ

DEAR GOD: Psalms – My Emotions Surge As I Read This Book~

by // // No Comments

Psalm 111:2 Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all ...

 

The Book of Psalms is a profound collection of songs and prayers that capture the full spectrum of human emotion and experience. From the heights of joy to the depths of despair, the Psalms offer a raw and honest dialogue with God. They remind us of His unwavering love and protection, and they reveal the heart of King David, a man after God’s own heart.

Reflection on the Psalms

The Psalms are a testament to God’s enduring love and faithfulness. In Psalm 23, David beautifully expresses his trust in God’s guidance and care:

“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” (Psalm 23:1-3, ESV).

This imagery of God as a shepherd highlights His role as a protector and provider. David’s confidence in God’s protection is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms. In Psalm 91, we see a powerful declaration of God’s safeguarding presence:

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust’” (Psalm 91:1-2, ESV).

King David’s Heart for God

David’s heart for God is evident in his psalms of praise and worship. Despite his flaws and failures, David’s deep love for God shines through. In Psalm 63, he writes:

“O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Psalm 63:1, ESV).

David’s longing for God is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking a close, personal relationship with our Creator.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God’s protection and provision in my life?
  2. In what ways can I express my love and gratitude to God daily?
  3. How can I seek God more earnestly, as David did, in my times of need and abundance?

Moral Takeaways

  • Trust in God’s Protection: Just as David trusted God to be his shepherd and fortress, we too can rely on God’s protection in every aspect of our lives.
  • Seek God Earnestly: David’s psalms encourage us to seek God with all our hearts, especially in times of trouble.
  • Express Gratitude: Regularly expressing our gratitude to God helps us to remain humble and aware of His blessings.

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
  • Psalm 121:1-2: “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
  • Psalm 34:8: “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!”

A Powerful Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and praise. Thank You for being our shepherd, our refuge, and our fortress. Just as David trusted in Your protection and sought You earnestly, help us to do the same. Strengthen our faith and draw us closer to You each day. May we always find comfort in Your presence and guidance in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Psalm to Ponder

Psalm 121:7-8 (ESV): “The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”

May the Psalms be a blessing to you, reminding you of God’s constant care and protection.

God Bless You All~

 

DEAR GOD: I Know You Are God~

by // // No Comments

Be Still and Know That I Am God Psalm 46:10 KJV Calm Ocean | Etsy

“Be Still, and Know That I Am God”

Historical Context and Meaning

Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” is a powerful verse that has resonated with believers for centuries. Historically, this verse was written during a time of turmoil and conflict for the Israelites. The psalmist, likely inspired by the Holy Spirit, penned these words to remind the people of God’s sovereignty and power amidst chaos. The command to “be still” was not merely a call to physical stillness but a deeper invitation to trust and surrender to God’s control.

In ancient times, the Israelites faced numerous threats from surrounding nations. This verse served as a divine reassurance that God was their protector and that His plans would prevail despite the apparent dangers. The phrase “know that I am God” emphasized God’s omnipotence and His ultimate authority over all creation.

Modern Interpretation

Today, Psalm 46:10 continues to offer comfort and guidance. In our fast-paced, often turbulent world, the call to “be still” is more relevant than ever. It invites us to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s presence in our lives. This stillness is not about inactivity but about finding peace and clarity in God’s sovereignty.

Modern believers can draw strength from this verse, knowing that God remains unchanging and ever-present. Whether facing personal struggles, global crises, or everyday stress, the assurance that God is in control provides a profound sense of peace.

Supporting Scripture

  • Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Reflective Questions

  1. What areas of your life are you struggling to surrender to God’s control?
  2. How can you incorporate moments of stillness into your daily routine to better recognize God’s presence?
  3. In what ways has God shown His sovereignty and faithfulness in your past experiences?

Moral Takeaway

The moral takeaway from Psalm 46:10 is the importance of trust and surrender. In a world that often values self-reliance and control, this verse reminds us that true peace comes from acknowledging God’s authority and resting in His promises. By being still and recognizing God’s power, we can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and serenity.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and strength. Help us to be still and know that You are God, especially in times of uncertainty and fear. Grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding and the faith to trust in Your perfect plan. May we always remember that You are in control and that Your love for us is unwavering. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Mainstay & Deliverer~

by // // No Comments

The Power of Prayer to Deliver You from Fear (Psalm 34:4) - Your Daily ...

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” – Psalm 34:4 (ESV)

This verse from Psalm 34 is a profound reminder of God’s faithfulness and His readiness to respond to our cries for help. It speaks to the intimate relationship we can have with the Lord, where our fears and anxieties are met with His comforting presence and deliverance.

Supporting Scripture

  • Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  1. God’s Readiness to Listen: The verse reassures us that God is always ready to listen to our prayers. When we seek Him earnestly, He responds. This is a testament to His loving nature and His desire for a personal relationship with us.
  2. Deliverance from Fear: Fear is a common human experience, but this verse promises that God can deliver us from all our fears. This deliverance might not always mean the removal of the situation causing fear, but it often means the provision of peace and strength to face it.
  3. Trust in God’s Timing: Sometimes, the answer to our prayers might not come immediately. Trusting in God’s timing is crucial, as His plans are always for our good, even when we cannot see it.

Reflective Questions

  • How often do I seek the Lord in my times of fear and anxiety?
  • Do I trust that God hears my prayers and will answer them in His perfect timing?
  • In what ways have I experienced God’s deliverance from my fears in the past?

Pertaining to Us Today

As Christians today, we face numerous fears and anxieties, whether they are related to health, relationships, or the future. Psalm 34:4 encourages us to turn to God with these fears, trusting that He will hear and deliver us. This verse is a call to deepen our prayer life and to rely on God’s promises.

In the Bible, we see many examples of individuals who sought the Lord and were delivered from their fears. David, who wrote this Psalm, faced many dangers and uncertainties, yet he consistently turned to God for help. His life is a testament to the power of seeking God and finding deliverance.

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness and Your promise to hear us when we call out to You. We bring before You our fears and anxieties, trusting that You will deliver us and grant us peace. Help us to seek You earnestly and to trust in Your perfect timing. Strengthen our faith and remind us of Your constant presence in our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Matthew 11:28 (ESV): “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Blessing

 ‘May the LORD’s Presence bring you comfort and offer solace and strength in all you endeavor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God Bless you~

You have always put a wall of protection around him…take away ...

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Unparalleled & My Everything~

by // // No Comments

Isaiah 25:1, New King James Version (NKJV) | Bible apps, Psalms, Words

In Isaiah 43:11-12, the Lord declares His unique and unparalleled sovereignty: “I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no Saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore, ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.”

This powerful proclamation reminds us of God’s exclusive role as our Savior and Redeemer. It is a call to recognize His supreme authority and to bear witness to His mighty works. God’s plan and His Omnipotent Power is for all of those who want to “tap into it” by being a follower and believing in His Word and His ways. Our choices in life should be culminative in the overall process of what where when and how we do things. It should incorporate a greater dependence, or more aptly, a full dependence of the LORD. 

As we reflect upon His Word and promises, we grow deeper in our roots, becoming more engrafted with Him each day. Our spiritual walk becomes heightened, and we grow closer to the LORD. In so doing, the enemy flees from us. We have the authority given to us in the name of JESUS to thwart the fiery darts in Jesus’ name.

Engaging in an intimate relationship with the LORD not only helps us in our choices and tasks of life itself, but it invariably will bring peace and joy into our hearts irrespective of what we are facing.

The devastation of the recent hurricane Helene and the aftermath is heartbreaking and surreal. So much pain, suffering and angst. Lives lost, and people incapacitated in functioning, because they’ve lost so much.

May God and His Sovereignty and Omnipotence and great power and glory shine over them now, as He heals their land, and their hearts, and their grieving loss.

May His Word and promises bring hope, light and healing to you all.

I pray this reflection on God’s word, peace and promises will bring you comfort during this horrific and disturbing period in your lives. And may the LORD Jehovah Jireh bring laborers, relief workers, and everything that you need during this time, to piece together your broken hearts, and lives due to Helene. 

Moral Thoughts and Reflective Questions

  1. Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty: In a world filled with distractions and false idols, it is crucial to remember that there is no Savior besides the LORD. How often do we place our trust in worldly things instead of God? Reflect on areas in your life where you might be relying on something other than God for your security and salvation.
  2. Witnessing God’s Works: As believers, we are called to be witnesses of God’s saving power. How can we share our testimonies of God’s faithfulness with others? Consider ways you can actively testify to God’s goodness in your daily interactions.
  3. Living in a Wicked World: The world around us often promotes values that are contrary to God’s teachings. How can we remain steadfast in our faith and live righteously amidst such influences? Reflect on the importance of staying rooted in Scripture and prayer to navigate the challenges of a sinful world.

Insightful Thinking for Christians Today

  • Trust in God’s Plan: Trusting in God’s plan requires faith, especially when we face trials and uncertainties. Remember that God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Reflect on how you can surrender your worries and anxieties to Him, trusting that He is in control.
  • Perseverance in Faith: In times of difficulty, it is easy to lose heart. However, we are encouraged to persevere, knowing that our trials produce endurance and strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4). How can you cultivate a spirit of perseverance in your spiritual journey?
  • Hope in God’s Promises: God’s promises are a source of hope and encouragement. Reflect on His promises in Scripture and how they can uplift you during challenging times. For instance, Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future.

Supportive Scriptures  

  • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Prayer

 “LORD- You alone are our Savior, and beside You, there is no other. Help us to trust in Your sovereign plan and to witness Your mighty works in our lives. Strengthen our faith, especially in times of trial, and guide us to live righteously in a world that often strays from Your truth. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may be bold witnesses of Your grace and mercy. We ask for Your peace to calm our anxieties and Your wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder and Meditate Upon

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Blessing 

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. May you walk in the assurance of His love and the strength of His promises, now and always. In Jesus name, Amen.”

God Bless you all~

August 25, 2022 | CBCPNews

DEAR GOD: Seek You In All I Do – Every Day & Beyond~

by // // No Comments

Homepage - Seeking God

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

Psalm 63:1

Psalm 63:1 is a heartfelt expression of longing and devotion to God. David, the psalmist, finds himself in a barren wilderness, both physically and spiritually. Despite his dire circumstances, he seeks God earnestly, recognizing that only God can quench his deep spiritual thirst.

Moral Takeaways:

  1. Seek God Earnestly: Just as David sought God early and earnestly, we too should prioritize our relationship with God, especially in times of need.
  2. Spiritual Thirst: Our souls have a deep need for God, much like our bodies need water. Recognizing this need can lead us to a more fulfilling spiritual life.
  3. Dependence on God: In our most challenging times, acknowledging our dependence on God can bring us comfort and strength.

Moral Thoughts:

  • In moments of spiritual dryness, turning to God can provide the refreshment and renewal we need.
  • Our longing for God should be as intense as our physical needs, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our spiritual lives.

Reflective Questions:

  1. When was the last time you earnestly sought God in prayer or worship?
  2. How do you recognize and address your spiritual thirst?
  3. In what ways can you prioritize your relationship with God in your daily life?

Supportive Scriptures (ESV):

  • Matthew 5:6: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
  • John 4:14: “But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
  • Isaiah 55:1: “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Prayer

 “LORD- we come before You with hearts that long for Your presence. Just as David sought You in the wilderness, we seek You in our times of need. Quench our spiritual thirst and fill us with Your living water. Help us to prioritize our relationship with You and to seek You earnestly every day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Psalm 42:1 (ESV): “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.”

Blessing

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen.

God Bless you all~

 

How To Seek God's Presence - leahleedesigns

DEAR GOD: My Rock, My Refuge, My Everything~

by // // No Comments

Jesus Is Our Rock - Choral Celebration - Midway Baptist ChurchReflection and Commentary on Isaiah 26:4

“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” – Isaiah 26:4 (ESV)

This verse from Isaiah is a profound reminder of the unwavering strength and stability that God provides. In a world where change is constant and uncertainty often looms, this scripture calls Christians to place their trust in the Lord, who is described as an “everlasting rock.” This metaphor signifies God’s unchanging nature and His ability to provide a firm foundation for our lives.

For Christians today, this verse encourages us to lean on God not just in moments of crisis but continually, recognizing that His strength is eternal and His support is unwavering. It speaks to the moral view that faith in God should be steadfast and enduring, regardless of the circumstances we face. Trusting in God means believing in His promises and His timing, even when we cannot see the path ahead clearly.

Moral Views and Takeaways

  1. Steadfast Faith: Trusting in God requires a steadfast faith that does not waver with life’s ups and downs. It is about maintaining our belief in His goodness and sovereignty.
  2. Dependence on God: This verse teaches us the importance of depending on God rather than our own understanding or strength. It is a call to humility and surrender.
  3. Eternal Perspective: Recognizing God as an “everlasting rock” shifts our perspective from the temporary to the eternal. It reminds us that God’s plans and purposes transcend our immediate circumstances.

Reflective Questions

  1. In what areas of my life do I struggle to trust God completely?
  2. How can I cultivate a more steadfast faith in my daily walk with God?
  3. What does it mean for me personally to see God as my “everlasting rock”?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 18:2: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

 Prayer

LORD, Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts filled with love and thanks for Your unwavering strength and Eternal Presence. We thank You for being our everlasting Rock, a firm foundation in times of trouble and peace. Lord, help us to trust in You completely, to lean not on our own understanding but to acknowledge You in all our ways. Strengthen our faith, especially in moments of doubt and fear. We lift up our world to You, asking for Your peace to reign in hearts and all nations. Guide us, protect us, and fill us with Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Blessing  

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. Trust in the Lord always, for He is your everlasting rock.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God Bless you all~

Jesus Our Rock

DEAR LORD: I Feel Your Love & Your Presence~

by // // No Comments

The God of Peace! | Christian Wallpapers

 

Reflecting on Isaiah 55:6, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near,” we are reminded of the urgency and importance of seeking God in our daily lives.

This verse speaks to the heart of our relationship with the Lord, emphasizing that He is always accessible and ready to receive us. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, this call to seek God is more relevant than ever.

Essay and Commentary: 

In our modern lives, it is easy to become consumed by the busyness of work, family, and personal pursuits. Yet, Isaiah 55:6 calls us to pause and prioritize our relationship with God. Seeking the Lord is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of faith. It requires intentionality, humility, and a heart open to His guidance.

When we seek God, we acknowledge that He is the source of all wisdom, strength, and peace. Our existence is a testament to His Divine plan, and our daily walk should reflect our dependence on Him. This verse encourages us to turn to God in every circumstance, trusting that He is near and ready to help.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How often do I intentionally seek God’s presence in my daily routine?
  2. In what ways can I make more time for prayer and reflection on God’s word?
  3. How do I respond to life’s challenges? Do I seek God’s guidance first, or do I rely on my own understanding?

Moral Takeaways:

  • Dependence on God: Recognize that our strength and wisdom come from the Lord. In every decision and challenge, seek His guidance.
  • Consistency in Faith: Make seeking God a daily practice. Just as we nourish our bodies with food, we must nourish our spirits with God’s word and prayer.
  • Humility and Surrender: Approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging that we are nothing without Him. Surrender your worries and plans to His divine will.

Christian Scenarios of Today:

  1. In the Workplace: Imagine facing a difficult decision at work. Instead of relying solely on your expertise, take a moment to pray and seek God’s wisdom. Trust that He will guide you to the right choice.
  2. In Relationships: When conflicts arise in relationships, seek God’s peace and understanding. Pray for patience and the ability to see the situation through His eyes.
  3. In Health Challenges: Facing health issues can be overwhelming. Seek God’s comfort and healing, trusting that He is with you in every step of your journey.

Power Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You in gratitude and surrender. We seek You, LORD, knowing that You are near and that Your love for us is immeasurable. Guide us in our daily walk, that we may always seek Your Presence and live according to Your will. Help us to remember that our existence is because of You, and let our lives be a continuous praise to Your holy name. Strengthen us in times of trial, comfort us in our sorrows, and fill us with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” – Psalm 145:18 (ESV)

Blessing to the Reader

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace”(Numbers 6:24-26, ESV).

In every step you take, may you feel His Presence guiding you. In moments of uncertainty, may His wisdom fill your heart. May His love surround you, bringing comfort and strength. Trust in His unfailing promises, and may your faith be a beacon of hope and light to those around you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

PEACE FROM GOD!! PEACE WITH GOD!! | HARVEST CHURCH OF GOD

DEAR GOD: Today In This Moment -My Faith Abounds~

by // // No Comments

 

Pin by Alicia Chavez on Gods Word to live by. | Trust god ...

“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” – Proverbs 27:1 (ESV)

Reflection on Proverbs 27:1

This verse from Proverbs reminds us of the uncertainty of life and the importance of humility. It speaks to the human tendency to make grand plans and boast about future achievements, forgetting that our lives are ultimately in God’s hands. As Christians, we are called to live in the present, trusting in God’s provision and guidance for each day. Trust in the LORD! He is in control – no need to worry about tomorrow- live for the day – and do ALL unto the LORD in each task, each deed, and all that you endeavor!

Duties of a Christian

As followers of Christ, we are called to live according to His commandments and teachings. This includes:

  1. Trusting in God’s Plan: We must trust that God knows what is best for us, even when our plans do not unfold as expected. Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
  2. Living Humbly: We should approach each day with humility, recognizing that we do not control the future. James 4:13-15 (ESV) echoes this sentiment: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’”
  3. Being Present: Jesus taught us to focus on today and not to worry about tomorrow. Matthew 6:34 (ESV) states, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

Moral Takeaways

  • Humility: Recognize that our knowledge and control are limited. We should not boast about our plans but rather submit them to God’s will.
  • Trust: Place our trust in God, knowing that He holds our future and has a plan for our lives.
  • Presence: Live fully in the present, making the most of each day and trusting God for tomorrow.

Reflective Questions

  1. How often do I find myself making plans without considering God’s will?
  2. In what ways can I practice humility and trust in my daily life?
  3. How can I focus more on the present and less on the uncertainties of the future?

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our lives are in Your hands. Help us to live each day with humility, trusting in Your plan and provision. Teach us to focus on the present and to seek Your will in all that we do. May we not boast about tomorrow but instead, place our confidence in You. Guide us, Lord, and help us to follow Your commandments faithfully. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)

Blessing

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. May you find comfort and strength in His presence, trusting Him with your future and living each day to its fullest.

Blessings to you, dear reader, as you walk in faith and humility.

 

Free Trust in God eCard - eMail Free Personalized Church Family Cards ...

DEAR GOD: Grant Me Your Peace And Patience In All Things~

by // // No Comments

We Must Learn to Wait On God | Pursuing Intimacy With God

Reflection on Waiting in Anticipation

Waiting is one of the most challenging aspects of life, especially when the outcome of what we are waiting for has the potential to significantly impact our future. Whether it’s awaiting medical results, a job opportunity, or any other pivotal moment, the period of waiting can be filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and fear. However, it is also a time that can be rich with spiritual growth, deepened faith, and a closer relationship with God.

Moral Thoughts and Meditative Thinking

In these moments of waiting, it is essential to remember that God is with us. He understands our fears and anxieties and invites us to cast all our cares upon Him.

As it says in 1 Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our waiting; God is intimately aware of our situation and cares deeply for us.

Waiting can be a time of moral reflection and growth. It challenges us to trust in God’s timing and His plan for our lives. It is an opportunity to develop patience, a virtue that is highly valued in the Bible. 

Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” This patience is not passive but active, filled with prayer, reflection, and a deepening trust in God’s promises.

Reflective Questions

  1. What is God teaching me during this time of waiting?
  2. How can I use this period to grow closer to Him?
  3. What scriptures can I meditate on to find peace and reassurance?
  4. How can I support others who are also in a season of waiting?

Gaining Peace and Reassurance

To gain peace and reassurance during the waiting period, it is helpful to meditate on God’s promises. Isaiah 40:31 offers a powerful reminder: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This verse encourages us to place our hope in the Lord, knowing that He will renew our strength and sustain us.

Prayer is another vital tool in finding peace. Through prayer, we can express our fears, hopes, and desires to God, and in return, receive His peace that surpasses all understanding. Philippians 4:6-7 advises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Turning Trust and Patience into Peace and Resilience

Trusting in God’s timing and plan can transform our waiting into a period of peace and resilience. By focusing on His faithfulness and past provisions, we can build a foundation of trust that sustains us through uncertain times. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “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.”

As we wait, we can also use this time to serve others and grow in our faith. Acts of service and kindness can shift our focus from our own anxieties to the needs of others, fostering a sense of community and purpose. Additionally, engaging in regular Bible study and worship can deepen our relationship with God, providing spiritual nourishment and strength.

Prayer for Guidance and Help in the Wait

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of anticipation and sometimes, anxiety. We are waiting for outcomes that could significantly impact our lives, and other individuals in our lives, and in this waiting, we seek Your guidance and peace. Help us to trust in Your perfect timing and plan. Grant us the patience to endure this period with grace and faith.

Lord, we ask for Your peace to fill our hearts, with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to cast our anxieties upon You, knowing that You care for us deeply. Strengthen our faith and resilience and draw us closer to You during this time. May we find comfort in Your promises and assurance in Your love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Powerful Scripture  

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.”

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He turn His face toward you and give you peace.”

God Bless You All~

 

God in Waiting

DEAR GOD: Take The Wheel- You Are In Control~

by // // No Comments

Jesus, Take The Wheel – Warrior Family Ministries

Personal Reflection on Psalm 69

Psalm 69 is a profound expression of distress and a heartfelt plea for God’s intervention. David’s words resonate deeply with anyone who has faced overwhelming challenges and sought solace in their faith. This psalm is a testament to the power of humility, perseverance, and unwavering love for God, even in the darkest times.

Commentary and Life Examples

David begins by crying out, “Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck” (Psalm 69:1). This vivid imagery captures the feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s trials. As Christians, we often find ourselves in situations where we feel submerged by our problems, whether they are health issues, financial struggles, or personal conflicts. David’s transparency in his suffering teaches us that it is okay to admit our vulnerabilities and seek God’s help.

In verses 3-4, David speaks of his exhaustion and the unjust accusations he faces: “I am weary with my crying out; my throat is parched. My eyes grow dim with waiting for my God. More in number than the hairs of my head are those who hate me without cause.” This reminds us that following God’s path can sometimes lead to misunderstanding and opposition. As Christians, we may face criticism or rejection for our beliefs, but like David, we must remain steadfast and trust in God’s justice.

David’s humility is evident in verse 5: “O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you.” Acknowledging our sins and shortcomings is crucial in our relationship with God. It is through humility that we open ourselves to His grace and forgiveness.

Despite his suffering, David’s love for God remains unwavering. In verse 30, he declares, “I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving.” This is a powerful reminder that our love for God should not be contingent on our circumstances. True faith means praising Him in both good times and bad.

Reflective Questions

  1. When have you felt overwhelmed by life’s challenges, and how did you seek God’s help?
  2. How do you respond to criticism or rejection because of your faith?
  3. In what ways can you practice humility and acknowledge your shortcomings before God?
  4. How can you maintain a heart of praise and thanksgiving, regardless of your circumstances?

Moral Takeaway

Psalm 69 teaches us that in the face of adversity, we must remain humble, steadfast, and full of love for God. Our faith should not waver with our circumstances, but rather, it should be a constant source of strength and hope.

Supportive Scriptures

  • James 1:2-4: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude and humility. Like David, I cry out to You in my times of distress, knowing that You are my refuge and strength. Help me to remain steadfast in my faith, even when I face overwhelming challenges. Grant me the grace to acknowledge my shortcomings and seek Your forgiveness. Fill my heart with unwavering love and praise for You, regardless of my circumstances. May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Amen.”

Meditative Takeaway

Reflect on the unwavering love and faithfulness of God. In moments of distress, remember that He is always with you, ready to lift you out of the depths. Let your heart be filled with praise and thanksgiving, knowing that His grace is sufficient for you.

I hope this reflection on God’s amazing Sovereignty and Power and His Word -brings you comfort and strength as you navigate your own challenges. Just remember- the LORD is in control at all times. Let God be God – and let Him take your wheel. Amen!

God Bless you all~

 

Jesus take the wheel... | Jesus pictures