soldier

DEAR GOD: We Are Healed By His Stripes – Amen!~

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By His Stripes We Are Healed

But He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was ]bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.
 All we like sheep have gone astray;
We have turned, every one, to his own way;
And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 53:5-6

 

 

Biblical Reflection on Isaiah 53:5-6

The verses from Isaiah 53:5-6 are among the most poignant in Scripture, revealing the sacrificial love of Christ and the redemption He offers humanity. These words transcend time, presenting a vision of Christianity that remains vital yesterday, today, and always.

This prophecy, written centuries before Jesus walked the earth, foretells His suffering and ultimate victory. “He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities.” This illustrates the gravity of sin—not just as a failing but as a burden that required divine intervention. By taking our punishment, Jesus bore the weight of humanity’s rebellion. In His stripes, the evidence of physical torment, we find healing—not merely physical, but spiritual and eternal restoration.

The imagery of sheep going astray is profound. Sheep are helpless creatures, prone to wander and incapable of finding their way back without guidance. This metaphor illustrates the human condition—our tendency to follow personal desires, often at the expense of God’s will. Yet the Lord’s intervention redirects us. The Good Shepherd does not abandon His flock but brings us back into fellowship, offering grace and redemption.

Scriptural Support and Moral Insights

The suffering servant described in Isaiah aligns closely with the depiction of Jesus in the New Testament. In Matthew 8:17, the Gospel echoes this prophecy, stating that Jesus “took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.” Similarly, 1 Peter 2:24 declares, “By His wounds, you have been healed.” These passages reiterate the powerful theme of substitution—that Christ endured what we deserved.

From a moral perspective, Isaiah’s words challenge us to contemplate the cost of our redemption. It is an invitation to live righteously, not as an obligation but as an act of gratitude. It also calls for humility, acknowledging our dependence on God’s grace. In our wandering, we find not judgment but an open invitation to return—a truth that resonates deeply in the lives of believers.

Christianity Yesterday, Today, and Always

The cross remains central to Christianity, just as this prophecy underscores. Yesterday, believers found strength in its promise; today, we continue to draw hope and direction from it; always, it will remain a beacon of reconciliation. The universality of Isaiah’s message bridges generations, making it a cornerstone for understanding both the past and present role of faith.

A Powerful Prayer

Heavenly Father, we humbly bow before You, grateful for the sacrifice made on our behalf. Thank You for sending Your Son to carry our transgressions and heal our brokenness. Help us to remember His stripes, His suffering, and His victory over death. May we never take for granted the grace You extend. Teach us to walk in Your ways, to be reflections of Your love and mercy to those around us. Guide us when we stray and strengthen our faith that we may remain steadfast in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Meditative Thought for the Day

Reflect on this truth: The stripes of the Savior are marks of our healing and restoration, a gift unearned yet freely given. God Bless You All~

 

By His Wounds We Are Healed (ISAIAH 53:5) | Healing scriptures, God ...

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

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Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ - Pastor Charles Finny Arumainayagam

Growing in Grace Through the Word

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reflective Questions:

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

Prayer:

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

Reflective Question for the Day:

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

God Bless you all~

 

 

DEAR GOD: Overcome Evil with Good~

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Overcome evil with good - Sanctified By christ

“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”- Romans 12:21 (KJV)

This brief but powerful verse from the book of Romans encompasses a profound moral directive that resonates with the core of Christian teachings. It calls believers to respond to wrongdoing not with retaliation but with righteousness.

Supportive Scriptures:

  1. Matthew 5:44 – “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
  2. 1 Peter 3:9 – “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
  3. Luke 6:27-28 – “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

Moral Thoughts:

The message of Romans 12:21 transcends the conventional response to malevolence. It encourages believers to rise above the natural inclination to seek revenge. Instead, it emphasizes the transformative power of goodness and love. By choosing to respond with good, we not only uphold our moral integrity but also potentially inspire positive change in others.

This verse is a reminder that our actions and reactions define the nature of our spiritual journey. It teaches us that we wield the power to influence the world around us by embodying the principles of grace and mercy.

Reflective Questions:

  1. Have there been instances in your life where you were tempted to repay evil with evil? How did you handle it?
  2. In what ways can you incorporate acts of goodness into your daily interactions, especially with those who may not treat you kindly?
  3. What are some practical steps you can take to overcome negative influences with positive actions?

Powerful Insight:

Romans 12:21 is a call to active faith. Overcoming evil with good is not passive; it requires deliberate action and the strength of character. It challenges us to not merely avoid evil but to proactively combat it with goodness. This approach not only protects our spiritual well-being but also demonstrates the transformative power of Christ-like love.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your enduring love and wisdom. Teach us to overcome evil with good and to respond with grace and compassion. Strengthen our hearts so that we may embody your teachings and reflect your love in our actions. Guide us in our daily lives to choose righteousness over retaliation and goodness over vengeance. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Meditative Scripture for the Day:

Proverbs 25:21-22 – “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.”

God bless you all~

DEAR GOD: We Find Strength in Scripture~

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Should You Work on Your Weakness or Strength?

 

“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.” – Jeremiah 29:11

This verse is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His benevolent plans for our lives. It reassures us that, despite the challenges and uncertainties we may face, God has a purpose for each of us, designed to bring us prosperity, hope, and a promising future. It encourages us to trust in His wisdom and timing, knowing that His plans are ultimately for our good. This divine promise provides comfort and strength, especially in moments of doubt or difficulty, as we are reminded of the unwavering care and guidance of a loving God. We find strength in CHRIST!

Has this verse provided you with encouragement or inspiration in your journey?

Think of how God touches your life each day and how He influences your thinking on a daily basis.

God is with us and has only good things for us in our pathway, should we align with His word and be according to His will and purpose, we will be able to do all things through Christ and in Christ.

You will ultimately and inherently know when it is the “will of God” because things will work out easily and the puzzle pieces will fit together nicely. It will be relatively smooth even through tumultuous times – because His hands will guide you and show you the way each time.

  1. Psalm 34:17-18: “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
  2. Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  3. 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.”
  4. Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

These scriptures remind us of God’s unwavering presence and support in times of need. They offer comfort, strength, and peace, encouraging us to turn to Him and trust in His love and guidance.

Do any of these verses resonate with you in particular?

“May the LORD’s Spirit and will provide you guidance and comfort all the days of your Life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Walking Humbly with God: Embracing Justice, Mercy, and Humility in Our Daily Lives By Your Grace~

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WALKED WITH GOD | New Life Fellowship

 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?- Micah 6:8 (KJV)

Commentary:

This verse from the prophet Micah encapsulates the essence of what God desires from us in our daily walk with Him. It is both a command and a guide, distilled into three powerful actions: doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

Doing Justly: To do justly means to act with fairness, honesty, and integrity. It’s about making decisions that are right and just, treating others with respect, and standing up for what is morally correct, even when it’s challenging. Reflect on times in your life when you have faced a moral dilemma. How did you choose to act? Did you consider what would be the just and fair thing to do?

In today’s world, doing justly can be seen in how we advocate for social justice, support those who are marginalized, and ensure our actions contribute to the greater good. We are called to be beacons of righteousness in a world that often turns a blind eye to injustice.

Loving Mercy: Loving mercy is about showing compassion, kindness, and forgiveness to others. It’s an attitude of the heart that reflects God’s endless mercy towards us. Reflect on your interactions with others. Do you approach them with a heart full of mercy, even when they may not deserve it?

In our modern context, loving mercy can mean being empathetic towards others’ struggles, offering a helping hand without expecting anything in return, and being willing to forgive those who have wronged us. It challenges us to go beyond mere tolerance and extend grace and love in tangible ways.

Walking Humbly with Thy God: Walking humbly with God is about living a life of humility, recognizing our dependence on Him, and aligning our lives with His will. It’s a call to put aside pride and self-sufficiency, acknowledging that our strength and wisdom come from God. Reflect on your relationship with God. Are you walking humbly with Him, seeking His guidance and submitting to His plans for your life?

In contemporary times, this can translate to daily practices such as prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking God’s direction in all aspects of our lives. It means being open to His correction and willing to change course when He leads us in a new direction.

Moral Takeaways:

  1. Justice, Mercy, Humility: These three virtues are the cornerstone of a life that pleases God. They are not merely abstract concepts but practical guidelines for our daily conduct.
  2. Consistency in Character: God desires consistency in our character, not just sporadic acts of righteousness. We are to embody these virtues in all we do.
  3. Reflective Living: Regularly reflecting on our actions and attitudes helps ensure we are aligning with God’s requirements and growing in our faith.

Today’s Times vs. Yesterday: The principles of justice, mercy, and humility are timeless. However, the way we apply them can differ based on our societal context. In ancient times, these principles were lived out in communal settings where one’s actions directly impacted the community. Today, while our contexts may be more complex and global, the core call remains the same. We have more opportunities and platforms to advocate for justice, show mercy, and live humbly, making a significant impact on the world around us.

Honoring and Loving the Lord: To honor and love the Lord in all we do and say involves making a conscious effort to incorporate His teachings into every aspect of our lives. It means:

  • Intentional Living: Being mindful of our words and actions, ensuring they reflect our faith.
  • Consistency in Faith: Demonstrating our commitment to God through regular worship, study of His Word, and prayer.
  • Service to Others: Serving others selflessly, as an expression of God’s love working through us.

Being Saints of Christ: We are called to be saints, which means living set apart for God’s purposes. This involves:

  • Holiness: Striving to live a life that is holy and pleasing to God.
  • Witness: Being a witness to others through our words and deeds, shining God’s light in a dark world.
  • Alignment with His Word: Continually aligning our thoughts, actions, and attitudes with God’s Word, allowing it to transform us.

Prayer:

“LORD- Heavenly Father, we thank You for revealing to us what is good and what You require of us. Help us to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with You every day of our lives. Grant us the strength to stand for justice, the compassion to show mercy, and the humility to seek Your guidance in all we do. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and righteousness, and may we continuously strive to align our hearts with Your Word. Bless each reader, and may Your presence guide and sustain them in their journey of faith. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Another Year!~

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New Year Fireworks Golden Beautiful, New Year, Fireworks, Golden PNG ...

HAPPY BLESSED 2025 NEW YEAR – THANK YOU LORD FOR ANOTHER YEAR!

 

As we welcome the dawn of a New Year, let’s take a moment to lift our hearts in worship and thanksgiving to the LORD, who has graciously carried us through another year. His love, mercy, and faithfulness have been our constant companions, and we stand on the threshold of this new beginning filled with hope and gratitude.

New Year Message: Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of Your greatness and Your unfailing love. As we step into this New Year, we give You all the glory and honor. We thank You for the countless blessings You have poured out upon us, and for the lessons and growth that have come through the challenges we’ve faced. We acknowledge Your sovereign hand in every moment of our lives, and we entrust our future into Your loving care.

Your Word reminds us: “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23). As we enter this New Year, we are comforted by the truth that Your mercies are new each day, and Your faithfulness is unwavering.

Lord, we dedicate this year to You. May our lives be a reflection of Your glory, and may our hearts be filled with Your peace and joy. Guide our steps, strengthen our faith, and draw us closer to You. We worship You with all that we are, and we look forward to the marvelous things You have in store for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26

Happy New Year! May God’s abundant blessings overflow in your life throughout this year

DEAR GOD: Your Son Is Our Light & Savior~

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Christ’s Birth: The Dawn of New Light

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!  Luke 2:13-14

 

Luke 2:13-14 is one of the most beloved and powerful parts of the Christmas narrative. Here, we find a profound moment where the divine intersects with the earthly, encapsulating the essence of the Christmas message. Let’s explore this verse in depth.

Context of the Passage:

This event takes place in the fields near Bethlehem, where shepherds were watching over their flocks by night. The angel of the Lord appeared to them, announcing the birth of Jesus Christ. As the angel delivered this joyous news, a multitude of the heavenly host joined in, praising God.

The Angelic Announcement:

The presence of “a multitude of the heavenly host” signifies the importance of this event. In the Bible, angels are often messengers of significant divine revelations, and their appearance en masse underscores the monumental nature of Jesus’ birth.

Praise and Worship:

The angels’ proclamation, “Glory to God in the highest,” is an act of worship, recognizing God’s supreme authority and celebrating His actions. This phrase acknowledges that God’s glory is above all, transcending the highest heavens. It reflects the ultimate purpose of creation, which is to glorify God.

Peace on Earth:

The phrase “and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased” highlights the result of God’s intervention in human history through the birth of Jesus. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound sense of well-being and reconciliation with God. It signifies the arrival of the Prince of Peace, who brings spiritual tranquility and restoration.

God’s Favor:

The last part of the verse, “among those with whom he is pleased,” indicates that this peace is granted to those who are aligned with God’s will. It is a reminder that God’s favor rests upon those who seek Him and live according to His commandments.

Theological Implications:

  1. Divine Intervention: The birth of Jesus marks a pivotal moment where God intervenes directly in human affairs to offer salvation.
  2. Universal Message: The announcement to the shepherds, who were lowly and marginalized, signifies that the message of Christ’s birth is for all people, regardless of status.
  3. Hope and Redemption: This passage encapsulates the hope and redemption that Jesus brings. It points to the ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity through Christ.

Conclusion:

The declaration by the heavenly host in Luke 2:13-14 is a powerful testament to the significance of our LORD and Savior Jesus’ birth. It captures the essence of Christmas: the glorification of God, the promise of peace on earth, and the assurance of God’s favor. This angelic announcement reminds us of the profound impact of Christ’s arrival and the hope it brings to the world.

Supportive Scriptures:

  1. Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
  2. John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
  3. Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  4. Colossians 3:15: “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
  5. Psalm 29:11: “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”

Reflective Questions:

  1. How does the promise of peace from God influence your daily life and interactions with others?
  2. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper sense of peace and trust in God amidst life’s challenges?
  3. How can you share the message of peace and joy that comes with the birth of Jesus with those around you?
  4. What are some practical steps you can take to seek and maintain God’s favor in your life?
  5. How does recognizing God’s glory in the highest impact your perspective on worship and prayer?

A Loving Prayer to the Lord:

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. As we reflect on the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we are in awe of Your love and grace. Thank You for sending Your angels to announce the good news, filling the world with hope and joy. Lord, we seek Your peace in our hearts and lives. Grant us the serenity to trust in Your plans and the courage to share Your love with others. May Your glory shine brightly in our lives, guiding us to live in a way that pleases You. We ask for Your protection and blessings upon our loved ones. Fill our hearts with Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, and let it guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”

God’s Light and Love follow you all daily.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Time With You Is A Treasure ~

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17 Bible verses about One Day

2 Peter 3:8 (KJV) says, “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”

 

Reflective Commentary

This verse is a profound reminder of God’s timeless nature and His eternal perspective, which far surpasses our limited human understanding.

Divine Perspective: The phrase “one day is with the Lord as a thousand years” highlights the immense difference between God’s perception of time and our own. It speaks to the idea that God’s plans and purposes unfold according to His perfect timetable, which is not bound by human constraints. This divine perspective encourages believers to trust in God’s timing, even when it seems incomprehensible or delayed from our viewpoint.

Patience and Trust: “…and a thousand years as one day” suggests that what seems like an eternity to us is but a moment for God. This teaches us the virtue of patience and the importance of trusting in God’s long-term plans. It reassures us that God’s promises will be fulfilled, even if it takes longer than we expect. This perspective can provide comfort during times of waiting or uncertainty, knowing that God’s timing is perfect.

Faith in God’s Sovereignty: The verse underscores God’s sovereignty over all creation, including time itself. It affirms that God’s ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). By acknowledging this, we are called to surrender our need for immediate answers and instead place our faith in God’s infinite wisdom and perfect plan.

Supportive Scriptures:

  • Psalm 90:4 (KJV): “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.”
  • Habakkuk 2:3 (KJV): “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”
  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 (KJV): “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.”

Reflective Questions:

  1. How does understanding God’s timelessness affect your perspective on waiting for His promises?
  2. In what areas of your life are you struggling with impatience, and how can this verse help you find peace?
  3. How does trusting in God’s sovereignty over time change the way you approach your daily challenges?

Moral Takeaways:

This verse calls us to cultivate patience and trust in God’s perfect timing. It encourages us to shift our perspective from our limited, human understanding of time to God’s infinite, eternal view. By doing so, we can find peace and reassurance in knowing that His plans are unfolding in the best possible way.

Christianity Today vs. Years Ago:

In today’s fast-paced world, the message of this verse is particularly relevant. Modern society often demands instant results and immediate gratification. Yet, the timeless truth of God’s perfect timing remains constant. This verse challenges us to slow down, trust in God’s eternal perspective, and find comfort in His unchanging nature.

Prayer:

“LORD – Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of awe for Your eternal nature and Your perfect timing. Help us to trust in Your divine plans and to wait patiently for Your promises to unfold. Grant us the wisdom to understand that Your timing is always perfect, even when we cannot see it. Strengthen our faith and renew our spirits as we rest in the assurance of Your unchanging love and sovereignty. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Final Blessing:

May the Lord’s eternal perspective bring you peace, may His perfect timing fill you with patience, and may His sovereignty guide your every step.

God Bless You All~

This is the Day that the Lord has Made – The Barnabas Center

DEAR GOD: What Season is This?~

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So, retirement and now what? 

According to Ecclesiastes there is a season, time and purpose for all things under heaven, while here on earth.  But sometimes, do you think, “Now what? I’ve accomplished many things; I’m getting on in years. What can possibly be next except old age and nearing death, and creaky knees, aching back, and doctors telling you, “Well— it’s natural at your age for A B C D E F G …so on and so forth!”

STOP! The worst thing you can do is sit and ponder, “what next?”  Because we know as Christians that as long as we have breath, and as long as we are here on earth, God still has plans for us!  Yes, even at “old age.”

Think about all the people who did things in their 80’s, 90’s and so on and so forth. Heck, look at Abraham!  He was 100 years old when Isaac was born to him!

Genesis 12 begins the story of Abraham (then called Abram) and his barren wife Sarah. Abraham was 75 years old when the LORD first gave Him the promise that he would father a son. Sarah was 65.  They had to wait 25 years for the fulfillment of God’s promise!

Abraham is called the father of faith (Romans 4:11–12) because of his response to God both in leaving his homeland and receiving a son in his old age.

 Genesis 15:4–5 again describes God’s promise to Abraham that his offspring would be as “the sands of the sea.” Even though Abraham was old and had no sons, he never doubted that God would do as He promised. He did not understand how such a thing could be possible, but he humbly accepted God’s word as truth.

Jesus’ mother, Mary kind of had a similar response when Gabriel visited and told her she’d be the mother of the Messiah  (Luke 1:26–38).

She didn’t c0mprehend how such a thing could be possible, since she was a virgin. But she readily accepted and never doubted God would do as He had said. This is the kind of response and the kind of deep unwavering faith that please our LORD. (Hebrews 11:6).

My point? No matter how young (David was young boy when he killed Goliath with a smooth stone! — 1 Samuel 17) or old—God has plans for us.

“Listen, observe, trust and do according to His will.

Answer the “call” when you hear Him. Readily accept and go with “Here I am LORD, use me.”

When you have that kind of attitude and are ready for His purpose, you won’t be sitting around saying, “what next?”

Are you ready to be used by the LORD not matter your age? Have you accepted assignments from Him in the past? Do you realize that as long as you are here there is still things to be done?

“Father, here I am! I love You and may Your will always be done, in Jesus name. Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: YOU ARE FIRST LAST & EVERYTHING~

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Isaiah 44:6   Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; “I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.”

The LORD’s words resonate to those who know Him. His words flow like honey to bees to His followers. His promises are like balm soothing to the souls who trust in Him explicitly.

Knowing that He “always was” and “is” and “always will be” is quite comforting to those who walk in obedience to His word. Those who adore and worship Him find pure joy in the distinctly familiar words and it echos in their hearts. And for those who realize that He was–is–and always shall be LORD, is overwhelmingly satisfying like a drink of water to one who is parched.

Meditation on His velvet words. And then take in the meaning of the words as you go through this day. It comes down to this, “HE IS WITH US ALWAYS!”

How amazing is that?

How amazing is He?

I know that I love HIM and always will!

“Father God, You are my First, my Last, My always and forever, thank You for everything You’ve done since the beginning of time, have done, are doing, and continue to do, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

Revelation 22:13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”

Revelation 1:8  “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Revelation 21:6-7  Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.

Revelation 1:17-18 When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.