commandments

DEAR GOD: Unity in Christ Alone~

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The Blessings of Unity – In God's Image

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

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

 The God of Patience and Consolation

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

Being Like-Minded

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

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

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

Unity According to Christ

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

Reflective Questions

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

Final Thoughts

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

Moral Takeaway

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

Meditative Verses

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

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

Closing Unity Prayer

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

 

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

DEAR GOD: I Need Your Wisdom & Love~

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

 

Wisdom from Above 

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

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

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

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

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

The Essence of Wisdom

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

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

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

Thoughts to Meditate

Take a moment to meditate on these thoughts:

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

 

Unity Prayer

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

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

DEAR GOD: Your Presence Is Here With Me~

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The Presence of Jesus - United Faith Church

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

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

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

Supporting Scriptures

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

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

Moral Reflection

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

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

Reflective Questions

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

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

Closing Unity Prayer

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

Video: Presence of Jesus - First Baptist Church

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

 

DEAR GOD: Your Mercy Endures Forever~

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

 

Bathsheba 

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

The Tragedy

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

The Resilience

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

Lessons from Bathsheba

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

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

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

Thoughtful Reflections

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

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

 

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

 

DEAR GOD: THANK YOU!

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

The Depth of Divine Love

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

The Verse

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

The Magnitude of His Sacrifice

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

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

Inclusive Love

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

  • How can we extend such inclusive love to others?

Belief and Eternal Life

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

  • What does genuine belief look like in your life?

Living Sacrifices

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

What sacrifices can you make today to honor Him?

Love in Action

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

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

Integrity and Holiness

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

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

Thoughts to Take Away

Embrace Grace

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

  • How can you extend grace to yourself and others?


Share the Good News

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

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

 Unity Prayer:

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

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

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

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Bible Verses About Mother's Love - CHURCHGISTS.COM

 

The Love of a Mother: A Reflection of Divine Affection

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

Scriptural Support

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

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

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

Morals and Reflection

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

Thoughts to Take Away

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

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

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

Deeper Thoughts & Reflections

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

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

Prayer of Unity:

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

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

 

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

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: I Love To Serve You Daily~

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God Is Love

God’s Righteous Anger & His Unfailing Love

Introduction

The concept of God’s righteous anger is deeply embedded in Christian theology, reflecting His perfect justice and holiness. Unlike human anger, which is often tainted by selfishness and sin, God’s anger is always justified, pure, and directed towards evil and injustice.

And Yet His Love is the other side of the coin – and it is a LOVE above all the rest!

The Boundless Love of God

God’s love for us is an unending ocean, a boundless sky that stretches beyond the horizons of our understanding. It is a love that is deep, wide, and all-encompassing, a love that embraces us in our entirety—flaws and all.

Scriptural Foundations

  • Eternal Love: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you” (Jeremiah 31:3). God’s love is not transient or conditional; it is eternal and unwavering.
  • Sacrificial Love: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The ultimate expression of God’s love was the sacrifice of His only Son for our redemption.
  • Victorious Love: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37-39). In God’s love, we find the victory over every trial and tribulation.
  • Adoptive Love: “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are” (1 John 3:1). We are not just creations or subjects, but children of the Most High, adopted into His family through love.
  • Abiding Love: “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” (1 John 4:16). To dwell in love is to dwell in God Himself, for He is the very essence of love.

Reflective Thoughts

  • How does the knowledge of God’s eternal love shape our identity and purpose?
  • What does it mean to live as conquerors through God’s love in our daily lives?
  • How can we reflect God’s adoptive love in our relationships with others?

 The Nature of God’s Anger

In the Scriptures, God’s anger is not a capricious or irrational burst of emotion, but a consistent response to sin and rebellion. For instance, in Romans 1:18, it is written, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.”

Reflective Questions

  • How does understanding God’s righteous anger change our view of sin?
  • In what ways can we align our own sense of justice with God’s?

God’s Anger in Action Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where God’s anger leads to action. The flood in the time of Noah (Genesis 6-8), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), and the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-11) are all examples of God’s righteous judgment against sin.

Supportive Scripture

  • Nahum 1:2: “The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord is avenging and wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on His adversaries and keeps wrath for His enemies.”

 Thoughts to Take Away About His Anger

God’s anger reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the importance of living righteously. It also assures us that God is just and will ultimately right all wrongs.

Takeaway About His Love

The love of God is not just a theological concept; it is a living, breathing reality that sustains, empowers, and transforms us. It is the foundation upon which we stand and the force that propels us forward. Let us rest in the assurance of His love and extend that love to the world around us.

Conclusion

God’s righteous anger is not something to be feared by those who are in Christ, for “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Instead, it is a reminder of God’s perfect holiness and the ultimate victory over sin and death.

And His Love is a balm for our souls, and an umbrella that deflects all evil and harm from those who follow Him. For those who trust in Him, for those who love Him, and for those who accept Him as LORD and Savior over their lives.

A United Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we acknowledge Your holy and righteous anger towards sin. Teach us to hate evil as You do and to seek Your righteousness in our lives. May we be instruments of Your justice and love in this world, today and all the days of our lives, may we be humble servants in Your righteous army, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

The Bible offers us a glimpse into the complex yet perfect nature of God’s righteous anger, and His uncompromised love encouraging believers to reflect on their own lives and align with God’s will. May it serve as a guide to understanding the depth of God’s justice and love.

DEAR GOD: Your Heart Is Merciful & Eternal~

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Lesson 8: The Heart of God - YouTube

Let us test and examine our ways,
    and return to the Lord!
 Let us lift up our hearts and hands
    to God in heaven:
Lamentations 3:40-41 (ESV)

 

The Heart’s Return:  

In the shadowed valleys of human experience, where the soul’s lament rises amidst trials and tribulations, the Book of Lamentations offers a beacon of introspection and hope. The verses of Lamentations 3:40-41 serve as a clarion call to self-examination and a return to God’s Divine grace. Let’s delve into Lamentations a little more, as we seek to unwrap the layers of these verses, with a desire to get to know our LORD further, and grasping to His every Word, as we listen to His voice in all that we do and say, each day of our lives.

Moral Lesson:

Lamentations 3:40-41 implores us to “search and try our ways and turn again to the LORD. Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens.” These words echo the importance and critical benefits of self-reflection and repentance. It is a call to sift through the debris of our actions, to discern the missteps, and to realign our path with that of righteousness. The lesson the Word brings to us here is not merely about recognition of wrongdoing- but about the transformative act of returning to the Lord, with a contrite and humble heart that accepts Him fully and wholly on every level of our lives, today and always.

Reflective Questions:

As we ponder the depths of these verses, let us ask ourselves: “In what ways if any, have I strayed from my values? How can I restore harmony between my actions and my spiritual beliefs?”

An Exercise for Reflection:

Take a moment to retreat into a space of solitude and silence, in the LORD’s Presence.  With a pen and paper, list the actions and choices from the past week that weigh heavily upon your conscience. Beside each entry, write down one step you can take to rectify or improve upon that action. Fold this paper and place it in a spot you will see daily as a reminder of your commitment to personal growth and spiritual renewal. This will encourage and strengthen your spiritual roots in the LORD and entrench your soul further into the depths of Christianity and God’s way, and Word. But this exercise is not one of “frivolity or perfunctory” – instead it should be of sincerity and earnest seeking to draw closer to the LORD in all aspects. We cannot fool God – He knows our hearts, and He knows what we will do and say before we even do or say it. And best of all – He loves us and FORGIVES us through the blood of Christ! Yes!

My Prayer:

“Dear LORD, In the quietude of my soul, I seek Your divine light. Guide me through the labyrinth of my ways, that I may discern the wheat from the chaff within my deeds. Grant me the courage to face the truths unearthed and the strength to amend my course. May my heart, uplifted in earnest supplication, find solace in Your boundless mercy. Renew within me a steadfast spirit and anchor me in Your unfailing love, today and all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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 In conclusion, Lamentations 3:40-41 invites us to a profound engagement with our innermost selves, urging us to shed the layers of complacency and to embrace a life of intentional righteousness. It is in the earnest examination of our ways and the heartfelt turning to the Lord that we find the true essence of spiritual awakening and moral fortitude.

DEAR GOD: I Reflect On Your Gift Of Salvation~

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Salvation Anyone? | Journeys

Psalm 149:4: A Reflection on Divine Pleasure and the Beauty of Salvation

Psalm 149:4 states, “For the LORD takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation.” This verse is a powerful reminder of God’s love and favor towards His people. It speaks of a God who not only creates but also delights in His creation. But what does it mean for the Almighty to take pleasure in His people, and how does He beautify the meek with salvation?

The Pleasure of the Lord

The pleasure of the Lord is not like human pleasure, which is often fleeting and self-serving. God’s pleasure is deep, abiding, and focused on the well-being of His people. It is a pleasure rooted in love and grace. Reflect on this: What brings you pleasure? How does your pleasure compare to the pleasure of the Lord?

The Beauty of Salvation

Salvation is often thought of in terms of rescue or deliverance from sin. However, Psalm 149:4 suggests that salvation is also an adornment, a beautification. It is God’s transformative work that takes the broken, the meek, and the humble, and clothes them in the beauty of His grace and righteousness.

Consider this: In what ways have you experienced the beautifying work of salvation in your life?

Scriptural Support

Throughout the Bible, we see the theme of God’s pleasure in His people and the beauty of salvation echoed:

  • Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
  • Isaiah 61:10 declares, “I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of His righteousness.”

These passages reinforce the message of Psalm 149:4, showing us that God’s pleasure and the beauty of salvation are central to His relationship with us.

 Reflective Questions

  1. How can we live in a way that brings pleasure to God?
  2. What does it mean to be ‘beautified’ with salvation in our daily lives?
  3. How can the knowledge of God’s pleasure in us transform our self-perception and interactions with others?

In Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your love and the pleasure You take in us. We are humbled by the beauty of Your salvation that adorns us in righteousness. May we live lives that reflect Your grace and bring You joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Moral Thought of the Day

“True beauty is found in the salvation that God bestows upon us, transforming our lives from the inside out and reflecting His perfect love.”

I invite you to ponder the depth of God’s love and the transformative power of His salvation. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and to seek to align our pleasures with those of the Lord, finding true beauty in the salvation He offers. May this reflection lead us to a deeper understanding and appreciation of God’s love for us.

DEAR GOD: Our Marriage Represents YOU!~

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THE MARRIAGE COVENANT – Ministry of the Watchman International ...

The Covenant Of Marriage

In the Divine narrative of human relationships, marriage stands as a sacred covenant, a testament to the union not just of two individuals, but of two souls bound by a promise of eternal companionship. The Bible speaks of this covenant with reverence, highlighting its significance and sanctity. Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse encapsulates the essence of marriage as envisioned by God—a harmonious blend of two lives into a single, unified existence.

The covenant of marriage is not merely a social contract; it is a spiritual vow that mirrors the fidelity and love of God for His creation. Malachi 2:14-16 reminds us that the Lord is a witness to this covenant, underscoring the gravity of the commitment made between spouses. It is a pledge of faithfulness, where love is not a fleeting emotion but a steadfast choice, a decision to uphold and honor one another through every season of life.

As we delve into the depths of this divine institution, we find that marriage is a reflection of God’s own covenant with humanity—a promise of unwavering presence, support, and love. It is a relationship that demands respect, understanding, and grace, much like the relationship between Christ and the Church, as described in Ephesians 5:1-332.

We can sum up that the moral of the covenant of marriage is this: That true love is not found in grand gestures or fleeting passions, but in the quiet commitment to stand by each other, to support and cherish one another in every circumstance. It is a love that emulates the love of God—unconditional, forgiving, all-encompassing and eternal.

Reflective Questions:

  • How can we ensure that our marriages reflect the covenantal love that God has shown us?
  • In what ways can we demonstrate the attributes of God—such as patience, kindness, and forgiveness—in our relationships with our spouses?
  • What steps can we take to honor the sanctity of the marriage covenant in our daily lives?

Unity Prayer:

“Dear Precious and Gracious God, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your blessing upon the sacred covenant of marriage. May every union be a living testimony of Your divine love and faithfulness. We pray for strength to uphold the vows made before You, to embody the love and grace that You have so generously bestowed upon us. Help us, O Lord, to mirror Your covenantal love in our marriages, to be patient, kind, and forgiving, reflecting Your glory in our companionship. May our relationships be built on the foundation of Your Word, guided by Your Spirit, and strengthened by Your presence. We thank You for being our ultimate example of love and commitment. May our marriages honor You and serve as beacons of Your light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”