Gifts from God

DEAR GOD: Standing On Your Promises Always!~

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Standing on the Promises of God

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. —
2 Corinthians 1:20 (NKJV)

God’s promises are unwavering, rooted in His eternal love and faithfulness. They are not subject to change nor dependent on circumstances, for they are anchored in His perfect nature. Throughout scripture, God reveals His promises to His people—promises of salvation, peace, provision, and eternal life. These promises, fulfilled in Christ, remind us that we are never alone, forsaken, or without hope.

One of the most profound aspects of God’s promises is their reliability. The Bible is filled with accounts of His faithfulness—how He delivered the Israelites from Egypt, how He provided for Elijah in the wilderness, and, most importantly, how He sent His Son to redeem humanity. As believers, we have the assurance that God’s promises are not just words, but truths sealed by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Living as Christians today comes with unique challenges. In a world often hostile to faith, it can be difficult to remain steadfast in our commitment to Christ. However, just as His promises sustained the saints of old, they sustain us now. By immersing ourselves in scripture and holding fast to His Word, we can navigate the complexities of modern life with courage and purpose.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I lean on God’s promises when faced with uncertainty?
  2. What specific promises from scripture strengthen my faith in difficult times?

Supporting Scriptures

  1. Jeremiah 29:11 — For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
  2. Isaiah 41:10 — Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
  3. 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 heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Moral Biblical Overview and Analysis

The Bible teaches us that standing on God’s promises requires faith, obedience, and patience. Faith trusts in what is unseen, knowing that God’s timing is always perfect. Obedience aligns our actions with His Word, allowing His promises to unfold in our lives. Patience acknowledges that while God’s promises are guaranteed, their fulfillment may not always be immediate. These qualities remind us that His promises are not only blessings for us to enjoy but also responsibilities for us to steward.

Christianity today is a mosaic of devotion and struggle. While the global church continues to grow in many regions, believers face increasing resistance in others. Yet, in the midst of trials, we see the resilience of faith and the transformative power of the gospel. As Christians, we are called to embody the love of Christ in tangible ways—through acts of kindness, integrity in our dealings, and a commitment to share the good news. By pursuing these actions, we can honor Christ daily and reflect His glory to a world that desperately needs hope.

A Prayer of Commitment

“Dear Heavenly Father, – LORD- thank You for the promises that anchor my soul and remind me of Your unchanging nature. Teach me to trust in Your Word, even when life is uncertain. Strengthen me to live each day with purpose, embodying Your love and truth in every thought, word, and action. Guide me to honor You in the small and the grand, and to be a light to those around me. Thank You for the assurance that in Christ, Your promises are Yes and Amen. May I live each day confident in Your faithfulness.  In Jesus name I prayer – Amen.”

Meditative Question for the Day?????

What is one promise of God that you can carry in your heart today as a source of hope and strength?

 

DEAR GOD: Thank YOU for Your Faithfulness & Mercy~

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A Tribute to the LORD’s Mercy and Goodness

“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 (ESV)

What a magnificent truth to anchor our hearts on—the steadfast love of the LORD never ceases. These words invite us to meditate on the boundless, unrelenting nature of God’s love. A love so immense that it doesn’t waver, weaken, or expire. It’s steadfast, meaning it is faithful, reliable, and rooted in His eternal nature. His love isn’t conditional or fleeting; it surrounds us through every season of life, in our greatest joys and deepest sorrows.

The Depth of His Mercy

“His mercies never come to an end.” Mercy is the compassion He shows us, despite our flaws and failures. His mercy doesn’t exhaust itself based on how much we need it. It is like an ever-flowing river, cleansing and refreshing. Reflect on how many times you’ve stumbled yet found His hand ready to pick you up. Could we even count the moments we’ve fallen short but were met with forgiveness and patience rather than condemnation? His mercy reminds us of His heart—a heart that desires restoration over retribution.

Reflective Question: Have you taken time recently to recognize the mercies that God has extended to you today? What specific blessings or moments of grace stand out?

His Love Made Manifest

The beauty of the LORD’s goodness is that it isn’t abstract. It is tangible in how He sustains us, provides for us, and walks beside us. We see it in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the ultimate revelation of His mercy and goodness. John 3:16 reminds us: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

This sacrificial love is the foundation of our hope.

The Call to Love Him Back

How can we not love Him in return? 1 John 4:19 tells us, “We love because he first loved us.” To love the LORD is to respond to the unfathomable kindness He has shown us. It is to surrender our hearts and lives to the One who gave everything for our sake. Loving Him means trusting Him even when the path is uncertain, praising Him when the storms rage, and obeying Him as an act of worship.

Moral Reflection: How often do we pause to consider what it means to truly love God—not just in words, but in the choices we make, the priorities we set, and the way we treat others?

Scriptures to Support and Strengthen

  • Psalm 23:6: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” His goodness isn’t a fleeting thing; it’s a faithful companion to us every day.
  • Exodus 34:6: “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” God’s mercy and love are at the very core of who He is.
  • Romans 8:38-39: “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This love is unshakable, eternal, and victorious.

A Purposeful Prayer of Thanks

“Father in Heaven, we stand in awe of Your boundless mercy and unwavering goodness. Thank You for loving us with a steadfast love that never fails, for showing us compassion even when we falter, and for renewing Your mercies every morning. May we never take Your love for granted, but instead live lives that reflect our gratitude. Help us to trust You more deeply, love You more fully, and honor You in all that we do. LORD, bless the hearts of those who read these words today. May they feel Your presence, embrace Your peace, and be filled with the assurance of Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

A Meditative Thought for the Day

Take a moment to meditate on this truth: The same God who paints the sunrise with new mercies each day also holds you tenderly in His hand. His faithfulness is your stronghold, and His love is your song.

How will you choose to respond to His unending goodness today?

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: Walking with Christ My Shepherd~

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Walking with Christ: His Spirit and Guidance

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.” — John 14:16-17 (ESV)

The essence of Christ’s ministry was not merely His words or miracles, but the gift He left behind: the Holy Spirit. This “Helper,” as Jesus called Him, is a guide, comforter, and source of power for believers. Christ’s Spirit doesn’t just dwell in a faraway realm but is present within us, transforming our lives daily.

The Spirit as a Guide

Christ promised His Spirit to lead us in truth and righteousness. When we face moral dilemmas, uncertainties, or trials, the Spirit provides wisdom and discernment. For example, in moments where our path seems unclear, Paul’s words in Galatians 5:16 resonate: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (ESV). Through the Spirit, we are invited to live a life that reflects Christ’s example—humble, loving, and selfless.

Reflective questions:

  • Are there areas in your life where you’ve relied on your own understanding instead of seeking the Spirit’s guidance?
  • How do you actively listen for the Spirit’s leading in your daily choices?

The Spirit’s Transforming Power

The Spirit works to mold us into the likeness of Christ. This transformation is not instantaneous but a lifelong process, as described in 2 Corinthians 3:18: “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” (ESV).

It’s through this transformation that we bear the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Each fruit reflects Christ’s character and draws us closer to God and to one another.

Reflective questions:

  • What fruit of the Spirit do you see most evident in your life? Which one do you feel called to cultivate more deeply?
  • How can the Spirit’s transforming work equip you to serve others?

Christ’s Spirit in Community

The Spirit not only guides and transforms us individually but also unites us as a body of believers. In Ephesians 4:3-4, Paul urges us to maintain unity: “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call.” (ESV). The Spirit enables us to love one another despite our differences and to work together for the Kingdom of God.

Reflective questions:

  • How does the Spirit prompt you to foster unity within your community of faith?
  • Are there relationships in your life where you need the Spirit’s help to restore peace and understanding?

A Prayer for Guidance

“Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, who dwells within us and guides us in all truth. Open our hearts to hear His voice and to follow His leading. Transform us into the image of Christ, that we may reflect Your love and grace in all we do. Unite us as one body, empowered by Your Spirit to serve You and others faithfully. May Your Spirit renew us daily, filling us with joy, peace, and strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

The Spirit of Christ is not distant or impersonal but deeply involved in every aspect of our lives. When we surrender to His guidance, we find clarity in confusion, strength in weakness, and hope in despair. May you walk closely with Christ, empowered and guided by His Spirit, each day.

 

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Christ, You Are My Eternal Valentine~”

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Valentine’s Day Reflection: Christ, My First Love

 

As we celebrate this special day of love, I am reminded of the greatest love of all—the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His love surpasses all understanding, and in Him, we find our true Valentine.

Scripture: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16 (NKJV)

Message: Christ’s love for us is unfathomable. He demonstrated His love through sacrifice, humility, and grace. On this Valentine’s Day, let us remember that Jesus is our ultimate Valentine, who loves us unconditionally and eternally.

Heartfelt Passage: “In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” – 1 John 4:10 (NKJV)

Our earthly relationships are meaningful and precious, but they are reflections of the perfect love that comes from above. Christ’s love is a beacon that guides us through life’s journey, offering comfort, strength, and hope.

Biblical Thoughts:

  1. Love’s Depth: Reflect on how Christ’s love reaches the deepest corners of our hearts, providing solace and joy.
  2. Love’s Sacrifice: Meditate on the ultimate sacrifice Christ made for us, showing the true essence of love.
  3. Love’s Promise: Embrace the promise of eternal life through Christ, a gift of love beyond measure.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How can I show Christ-like love to those around me?
  2. In what ways can I deepen my relationship with Jesus as my first love?
  3. How can I reflect the sacrificial love of Christ in my daily life?

Prayer: “LORD – Our Heavenly Father, on this day dedicated to love, we come before You with grateful hearts. Thank You for the immeasurable love You have shown us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to love You with all our hearts, souls, and minds. Teach us to love others as Christ loves us, showing kindness, patience, and forgiveness. May we always remember that our true Valentine is our Savior, who loves us unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Pondering Scripture: “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” – John 15:13 (NKJV)

May this Valentine’s Day be a reminder of the boundless love we have in Christ, and may we strive to love Him first and foremost, with all our hearts.

God Bless You All In Christ’s Love~

DEAR GOD: Your Love Produces Exponential Growth of Faith and Love:

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The scripture in 2 Thessalonians 1:3 serves as a timeless beacon of faith and charity, one that calls believers to reflect deeply on the dimensions of their spiritual lives. “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth.” In this passage, the Apostle Paul expresses his gratitude and admiration for the Thessalonian believers whose faith and love continue to flourish despite the challenges they face.

Moral Thoughts

At its core, this passage calls for an evaluation of one’s faith and charity, encouraging believers to continuously grow in both areas. Faith, as described here, is not stagnant but rather a dynamic, ever-expanding force. It challenges us to examine our own faith—do we merely possess it, or does it actively grow and influence our lives? Similarly, the charity or love mentioned by Paul is characterized by its abundance, signifying an overflowing, unconditional love toward others.

Reflect on these questions:

  • How do we express our faith in our daily lives?
  • Are we actively seeking to deepen our relationship with God?
  • In what ways do we show love and kindness to those around us, particularly in challenging times?

Biblical Theoretical Analysis

From a theoretical standpoint, the passage can be dissected into two primary components: faith and charity. Paul’s praise of the Thessalonians’ faith “groweth exceedingly” suggests that faith is meant to be nurtured and cultivated. This aligns with the concept of sanctification in Christian theology, where believers are progressively transformed into the likeness of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit.

The second component, charity or love, is described as abounding. This abundance of love can be viewed through the lens of agape, the selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors God’s love for humanity. In a theoretical analysis, this calls for an understanding that true Christian love is not limited by circumstances or conditions but is freely given to all.

Christianity Overall

In the broader context of Christianity, 2 Thessalonians 1:3 serves as a reminder of the foundational principles of the faith. Christianity is built upon the pillars of faith in God and love for one another. This passage reiterates that these principles are not just theoretical constructs but living, active forces that should permeate every aspect of a believer’s life.

Supportive Scriptures

Several other scriptures provide support and further insight into the themes of faith and charity found in 2 Thessalonians 1:3:

  • Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This verse highlights the essence of faith as a confident trust in God’s promises, even when they are not yet visible.
  • 1 Corinthians 13:1-3: This passage emphasizes the paramount importance of love, stating that without it, even the greatest acts of faith and sacrifice are meaningless.
  • James 2:17: “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” This verse underscores the necessity of active, living faith that is demonstrated through actions.
  • 1 John 4:7: “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” This scripture reinforces the concept of love as a defining characteristic of those who truly know God.

Reflective Questions

In pondering this passage and its implications, consider the following reflective questions:

  • How can I intentionally grow my faith in practical ways?
  • What steps can I take to ensure that my love for others is genuine and abundant?
  • In what areas of my life do I need to demonstrate greater faith and trust in God?

Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unending love and grace. We thank You for the example set by the Thessalonians, whose faith and love inspire us to grow deeper in our walk with You. Lord, help us to cultivate a faith that is ever-growing, a faith that shines brightly in times of joy and adversity alike. Fill our hearts with an abounding love for one another, a love that mirrors Your own perfect love for us. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness and mercy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Matthew 22:37-39: “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”

May this exploration of 2 Thessalonians 1:3 inspire you to deepen your faith and love, reflecting the heart of Christ in all that you do.

 God Bless You All

DEAR GOD: Your Restorative Healing Soothes~

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“Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.” – Psalm 30:2

 

Psalm 30:2 captures a moment of deep personal connection between the psalmist and God, underscoring the profound belief in divine intervention and healing. This verse speaks to the omnipresence of God and His readiness to respond to our pleas, embodying the essence of faith and trust in His boundless love and mercy.

The psalmist’s cry for help is met with divine healing, suggesting a relationship built on faith and the conviction that God is a refuge in times of need. This healing is not just physical but extends to emotional and spiritual realms, reflecting the holistic nature of God’s care. The psalmist’s experience reminds us that God’s healing touch can restore us to wholeness, bringing peace and joy back into our lives.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How do we turn to God in times of distress and seek His help?
  2. In what ways have we experienced God’s healing in our own lives?
  3. How can we deepen our trust in God’s ability to heal and restore us?

Moral View and Takeaway: From a moral perspective, Psalm 30:2 encourages us to recognize the transformative power of faith and the importance of calling on God in our times of need. It challenges us to maintain a relationship with the Divine, rooted in trust and devotion. The key takeaway is that God is always listening and ready to heal us, but we must approach Him with sincere hearts and unwavering faith.

Christian Virtues:

  1. Faith: Trusting in God’s ability to heal and restore.
  2. Hope: Believing that God’s intervention will bring about positive change.
  3. Love: Understanding that God’s healing is an expression of His boundless love for us.
  4. Gratitude: Being thankful for God’s presence and healing in our lives.

The Love of the Lord and the Power of His Love: God’s love is central to this verse. It is His love that compels Him to hear our cries and to heal us. This love is unconditional and all-encompassing, reaching into the depths of our being to bring us back to a place of wholeness. The power of His love lies in its ability to transform our lives, to mend what is broken, and to bring light into our darkest moments. Psalm 30:2 is a testament to the healing power of God’s love and a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles.

Prayer: “Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for your endless mercy and healing grace. In our times of pain and distress, may we always remember to call upon You, trusting that You hear our cries and will heal our wounds. Fill our hearts with Your love and peace and guide us through every challenge with Your comforting presence. Help us to deepen our faith, live with hope, and show gratitude for Your divine intervention in our lives. In Jesus name Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Worship in Spirit and in Truth~

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“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” John 4:24  (KJV)

John 4:24 is a profound and pivotal verse that speaks volumes about the nature of God and the essence of true worship. This verse captures the essence of a spiritual relationship with God, transcending physical and superficial rituals. In this essay, we will explore the depth of this scripture, its biblical context, moral takeaways, and practical applications in our daily lives.

Biblical Overview and Analysis

The verse, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth,” is a part of Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. This dialogue occurs in John 4:1-42, where Jesus reveals profound truths about the nature of God and worship. In this context, Jesus dismantles the barriers of cultural and religious divisions by emphasizing the spiritual nature of worship, which is not confined to specific locations or rituals.

The statement “God is a Spirit” indicates that God is not a physical being confined to a specific place. God’s presence is omnipresent and transcends all physical limitations. Therefore, true worship is not about external ceremonies but about a genuine, heartfelt connection with God.

The phrase “in spirit and in truth” highlights two crucial components of worship:

  1. In Spirit: Worship must be led by the Holy Spirit, engaging our innermost being. It requires sincerity, passion, and a genuine connection to God.
  2. In Truth: Worship must align with the truth of God’s Word. It involves a deep understanding and adherence to biblical teachings.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I experience God’s presence in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I ensure my worship is sincere and aligned with God’s truth?
  3. How can I break free from merely following rituals to truly connect with God spiritually?

Moral Takeaways

  • Sincerity in Worship: True worship is about the heart and spirit, not just external rituals.
  • Authentic Connection: Building an authentic relationship with God requires understanding His nature as a spirit.
  • Truthfulness: Our worship must be grounded in the truth of God’s Word.

Daily Demonstration

To incorporate this verse into our daily lives, we can:

  • Spend quiet time in prayer and meditation, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us.
  • Study the Bible regularly to align our beliefs and actions with God’s truth.
  • Practice gratitude and mindfulness, acknowledging God’s presence in every moment.

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 145:18: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
  • Romans 12:1: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
  • Philippians 3:3: “For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking to worship You in spirit and in truth. Help us to understand the depth of Your love and presence in our lives. Guide us to be sincere in our worship and grounded in Your truth. May our lives reflect Your glory and bring honor to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing and Scripture to Ponder

May the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).

Scripture to Ponder: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” – Psalm 145:18

This heartfelt reflection serves as a reminder that true worship transcends rituals, reaching the core of our spirit and aligning with God’s eternal truth. May you carry these thoughts with you and find deeper meaning in your relationship with God.

DEAR GOD: Help Us Be Humble LORD: A Reflection on Galatians 6:1

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Commentary on Galatians 6:1 (KJV)

Galatians 6:1 is a profound verse that emphasizes the importance of compassion, humility, and self-awareness in the context of Christian community and restoration. Let’s delve deeper into its meaning and implications for both biblical times and our lives today.

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” – Galatians 6:1 (KJV)

Contextual Overview: In biblical times, the early Christian communities faced many challenges, including moral and spiritual lapses among their members. This verse, penned by the Apostle Paul, addresses the need for those who are spiritually mature (“ye which are spiritual”) to approach those who have stumbled (“overtaken in a fault”) with a spirit of gentleness and humility (“spirit of meekness”). The goal is restoration, not condemnation, reflecting the grace and mercy that Christ extends to all believers.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How do we react when we see a fellow believer struggling or making a mistake?
  2. Are we quick to judge, or do we approach them with a spirit of meekness and a desire to restore?
  3. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility and self-awareness in our interactions with others?

Moral Thoughts and Application: In today’s world, just as in biblical times, people make mistakes and fall into sin. This verse calls us to respond not with harsh judgment but with understanding and a desire to help them get back on the right path. The “spirit of meekness” means approaching them with gentleness and empathy, recognizing that we too are susceptible to temptation and failure.

In modern life, this might look like offering support and guidance to a friend who is going through a tough time, rather than gossiping about their struggles. It means being there for others in a way that reflects Christ’s love and grace, always mindful of our own vulnerabilities.

Worshipful Comments About Christ and His Glory: Christ’s example is the ultimate demonstration of restoration and humility. He came to save the lost and restore those who had fallen, doing so with a spirit of meekness and love. His sacrifice on the cross is the epitome of selfless love and grace. By following His example, we bring glory to His name and embody the true essence of Christian community.

Supporting Scriptures:

  • Matthew 18:15 – “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.”
  • James 5:19-20 – “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.”
  • Ephesians 4:32 – “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

Prayer: “Dear Heavenly Father, we thank Thee for Thy Word that guides us in love and humility. Help us to restore those who are overtaken in faults with a spirit of meekness, as Thou hast restored us through Thy grace. Grant us the wisdom to approach our brethren with gentleness, and the self-awareness to recognize our own need for grace. May we reflect the glory of Christ in our actions, bringing honor to His name. Strengthen us to be instruments of Thy restoration, for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”

May this reflection inspire you to live out the principles of Galatians 6:1 in your daily life, drawing closer to Christ and His example of love and grace.

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: You Are My Salvation & Peace ~

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Commentary on John 10:7-9 (KJV)

Introduction: In John 10:7-9, Jesus presents Himself as “the door of the sheep,” a powerful metaphor that speaks volumes about His role as the protector and savior of His followers. These verses emphasize the exclusivity of Jesus as the means of salvation and the abundant life He offers. Let’s delve into these profound words, exploring their historical context, theological significance, and their enduring relevance in today’s world.

Historical Overview: In ancient times, shepherds played a crucial role in agrarian societies. They were responsible for the safety and well-being of their flocks. At night, sheep were often kept in a pen or a fold, with a single entrance. The shepherd would lie across the entrance, literally becoming the door, to protect the sheep from predators and thieves. This imagery would have been immediately understood by Jesus’ audience, who were familiar with the pastoral life.

Verse 7: “Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.” Jesus declares Himself as the door, using the metaphor of a shepherd’s role as the gatekeeper of the sheepfold. By repeating “Verily, verily,” He emphasizes the importance and truth of His statement. This verse highlights the exclusivity of Jesus as the only way to enter the fold of God’s kingdom. Just as the sheep rely on the shepherd for protection and guidance, we rely on Jesus for spiritual security and direction.

Verse 8: “All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.” In this verse, Jesus contrasts Himself with false prophets and leaders who sought to lead God’s people astray. These “thieves and robbers” represent those who claimed to provide salvation but ultimately led to spiritual ruin. The true sheep, those who genuinely seek God, do not follow such deceitful voices. Reflective questions to ponder:

  • How can we discern the true voice of Jesus amidst the many voices in today’s world?
  • In what ways have false teachings impacted the faith community historically and in modern times?

Verse 9: “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” Jesus reiterates His role as the door and expands on the promise of salvation. Those who enter through Him will be saved, finding both security and sustenance. The image of going in and out and finding pasture speaks of the freedom, safety, and provision that come from being under Jesus’ care. This verse is a beautiful assurance of the abundant life Jesus offers to His followers.

Reflective Questions:

  • How can we live our lives in a way that reflects our trust in Jesus as the door to our salvation?
  • What steps can we take to ensure we are following the true voice of our Shepherd in today’s complex world?

Biblical References:

  • Psalm 23:1-3: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”
  • John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
  • Hebrews 13:20-21: “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who is the door to our salvation. Help us to recognize and follow His voice amidst the distractions of this world. Grant us the wisdom to discern truth from falsehood and the courage to remain steadfast in our faith. May we always find our rest and provision in You, trusting in Your unfailing love and guidance. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings for the Reader: May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always. May His voice guide you, His love envelop you, and His peace fill your heart. As you journey through life, may you continually find refuge and sustenance in Him. Blessings to you, now and forevermore. Amen.

 

DEAR GOD: Praise LORD JESUS Our King~

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Jesus Is Seen In The Manger With The Three Wise Men Background, Picture ...

A Christmas Poem: The Birth of Christ

In Bethlehem, on a starry night so mild,
Was born to us a holy child.
From Heaven’s throne to a humble manger,
Came the Savior, free from danger.

Isaiah 9:6 (KJV): “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

With angels singing high and bright,
Proclaiming peace and endless light.
Shepherds watched in fields, amazed,
By the star that brightly blazed.

Luke 2:10-11 (KJV): “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”

Wise men traveled from afar,
Guided by that shining star.
With gifts of myrrh, frankincense, and gold,
The prophecy of old foretold.

Matthew 2:1-2 (KJV): “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”

In a stable, pure and lowly,
Lies the King, so meek and holy.
Born to save and born to guide,
Born to bring us to His side.

John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”

Mary held her child so dear,
Joseph stood, his heart sincere.
In their eyes, a future bright,
In their hearts, eternal light.

Luke 2:19 (KJV): “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.”

Silent night and holy birth,
Heaven’s joy upon the earth.
Christ the Savior, born this day,
To lead us on the righteous way.

John 14:6 (KJV): “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

A Prayer for the World

“O Holy LORD – in this season of celebration and remembrance, we come before You with all our love for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank You for His birth, His light, and His love, which continue to guide and inspire us.

Lord, as we reflect on the miracle of Christmas, we pray for Your peace and love to fill the hearts of all people around the world. May the light of Christ shine brightly in every home, bringing hope to the hopeless and joy to the weary.

We lift up those who are suffering, those who are alone, and those who are in need. Comfort them with Your presence and provide for their needs. May they find solace in Your love and strength in Your grace.

Grant us the wisdom to follow Your ways, the courage to spread Your truth, and the compassion to love as You have loved us. Help us to be beacons of Your light in a world often overshadowed by darkness.

Lord, bless our leaders with the insight and compassion to make decisions that reflect Your justice and mercy. May there be peace among nations and harmony among all people.

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us carry the spirit of Christmas in our hearts each day. May we strive to live in a manner that brings glory to Your name and furthers Your Kingdom on earth.

We ask all this in the precious name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.”

May this poem and prayer bring you peace and joy this Christmas season
God Bless You All

MERRY CHRIST-MAS!!!