Month: August 2019

DEAR GOD: Your Goodness Prevails Always~

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“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith…” 

Galatians 5:22 (KJV)

 

 

 

 

The earth is full of God’s goodness. What does He consider good?  Well, it’s written out clearly and defined with love and purpose in His book, the Holy Bible.

I was looking at my dog and he was staring into my eyes, and I felt God’s goodness in this beautiful little fur baby of mine.  His eyes staring contently into my eyes, which for the record, was mutual as I stared into his.  I associate so many things with God and His inherent goodness.

There are many words that pertain to God’s goodness in the Bible, some come quickly to mind, “truth, justice, righteousness, love, light” and in Ephesians its outlined clearly, take for example, 5:8-10, “For you were once darkness, but now you are  a light in the LORD. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) finding out what is acceptable to the LORD.”  

So many of His children are guilty of deciding on their “own” as to what is right or wrong, good or bad, depending on their own personal scenario…instead, they should be looking to God for what is right, wrong, righteous, or otherwise. He is the sole source of our knowledge and the personal beam of light that guides us through the darkness, lending us strength and loving us through it all.

 Psalm 52:1 tells us that “the goodness of God endures continually.” What does His goodness entail? Well, for starters, a personal commitment comes to mind; and that would include, right over wrong. So, the fruit of the Spirit guides us to do just that. We are not strong in our “own eyes” as Proverbs states, we must trust Him and look to Him for all things, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path. Be not wise in your own eyes, love Him, keep from evil, and it will be health to your navel and marrow for your bones.” ( Proverbs 3:5-8)

 

The fruit of the Spirit of goodness mentioned in Galatians 5:22  also tells of being generous and doing good for others.

 

Why is God desiring us to demonstrate goodness?  It’s because God is pure, and good, and He wants us to grow, and become more like Him.

 

We must let Him grow in us and be led by the Spirit in order to obtain and be assured of His goodness, and then, we will be molded into bearing the fruit of the Spirit.

 

Generousity, kindness, patience, goodness, light, love, peace….all of it, as we come closer to the realm of His presence and His love.

 

 “Father, thank You for Your Spirit,  please continue to guide me, and help me keep on coarse, let me never forget Your goodness, Your will, and Your love for me, and all creation, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Our Path and Purpose~

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In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV)

 

Today, while eating breakfast, I got lost in a wonderful collage of memories concerning former colleagues, and dear friends of mine, that I was so blessed to have worked with, and have known.   We each worked cohesively in every aspect as a team, but always for the betterment of the residents in the nursing home.

I’m thankful to God for so many things, each and every day of my life. For the past, present, and future…But, today I felt the blessings in full accord and in abundance. The wonderful ladies whom I worked so closely with, brought such joy into my heart, and into the lives of others at the nursing home, and beyond.

As of this writing…most of them have since been called home to the LORD, where I’m sure they received their crowns, and earned a seat at the LORD’s table, after all of their beautiful acts of decency, love and compassion.

I thought of “God’s plans and timing” and realized that my working there at that nursing home, was all part of God’s plan. He led me to an Oasis on earth in all aspects, including my job, my friendship, and my connections to the residents.

All part of His perfect timing, preordaining our steps…bringing us into our realm of where we should be according to His plans. NOT ours, but His. God blesses us with so many things in life and most times we are too busy to realize it.

Stop and take the time to thank Him. Look up and smile and know He has His hands all over your heart as He guides you, and leads you. During your travels, whether it be with family, or friends,  take some time to sharpen each others countenance today.

I can tell you that the precious moments I shared with my beloved friends, and colleagues, will always be in my heart, the joy of our purpose, working side-by-side, along with the peace of knowing we were helping others, is indelibly etched into my soul.

But, that was then, and this is now…so while we’re here on earth, we still have a purpose to fulfill God’s plan.

Be vigilant, follow the Spirit, as He guides you to the path in which you’ve been called, and start creating “new memories.”

And while you’re at it, do it all to the Glory of our almighty God, Amen!

 

“Father God, thank You for Your blessings in all that we do, according to Your plan and will for our lives, today and always, all glory and honor are Yours Almighty Father, now and forever, in Jesus name, Amen.”

…

Whoever keeps the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waits on his master shall be honored Proverbs 27:18 (KJV)

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you are called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15 (KJV)

DEAR GOD: Purpose & Provisions~

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Romans 8:28 28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

 

This verse is a great comfort to those who are faithfully living within the realm of God’s Word, and seek Him daily, for all things. It’s a promise for “real believers in Christ.”

It’s a good reminder, to let us know, that although sin is running rampant in the world, God will protect us, and bring us through it all.

Those who love God, and who are clearly trying to live according to His Word, it’s critically important to remember God’s provisions, and God’s promises, concerning  all of His children.

Bad things, sad things, evil things, and wicked things, will invariably happen in the world, and ostensibly, can touch our lives in the process.  But, God inherently will use such events, to eventually bring about good in the world, and hence in our lives.

Romans 8:28 brings comfort, because although sin and the enemy may be powerful; our God is more powerful; He can bring restoration, and redemption, for His glory, and for our good.

Trust God.

God can, and will ultimately use all things for good.

He defeated death.

He is the Author of peace, and He is our Savior.

We know, in fact, that until Christ returns, there will always be evil in the world, and sadness, and wicked things…until Christ wipes them out permanently, when He returns.

Until that glorious return,  take comfort in the Comforter’s words, and promises. They’re filled in His Holy Book, which is a common denominator, and ground of solidity for those of great faith.

As we go through life, and see images on the news, or hear of sad things, troubles, sickness both in the world and in our lives, keep looking up, for our redemption draws near!

As our Lord and Savior said,  “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.” 

John 14:27 (NKJV)

 “Father, thank You for Your endless love and provisions, without You we could never get through one day, let alone a lifetime, we trust You and love You, thank You for holding us safely in the cleft of the Rock,  for Your protection, and for Your love, no matter what happens in our life, or this world, we know You are with us always,  in Jesus precious name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: Always & Forever~

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The Word became 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.”

John 1:14 (NKJV)

Whatever our Savior Jesus did, or said, it was always with grace, love, and most important, always in truth. He only spoke the truth. His words touched those within His sight when He walked among us. His words, and ways, continue touching and healing hearts to this very day.

Jesus was not gracious for just a moment in time, but every second of His time was loving, kind and filled with truth. Truth is “painful” for some. Sometimes, we don’t want to face the truth, or hear the truth. But, as it is said, “the truth will set you free.”

And, Jesus has set us free by coming, and defeating death. Our very Author of Salvation cleansed us with His purity, and His blood, which was willingly shed, for all.

The world is in chaos, and the enemy seems to be having a field day…especially these past several weeks. Confusion is” knocking” on many people’s doors. And, the advice Jesus would probably offer is “don’t open the door” God is not the creator of confusion, pain, or jarring images. He is the creator of peace and love, which equates into full blown tranquility.

As we go forward, and delve into His Word, and meditate on His word, we discover so much more each time. There are so many facets of God. His magnitude, and prolific Presence is all around us. We feel His love in all aspects of our daily life.

From the moment we open our eyes in the morning, we realize He has graced us with another day. To the moment we arrive safely to our given destinations during the day, He has protected us. To the moment we encounter friends, family…people we offer Godly counsel to, or a smile and touch of the hand. This is all thanks to God. To the moment we get ready for another night of sleep, as He watches over us. We may sleep, but remember this, God never does. He watches us, protects us constantly. Again, how reassuring is that?

So to those who are facing issues, personal or otherwise…those of you who are lonely, fearful, or those in need of a caring voice, or kind word, it’s okay. Because God hears, sees, and knows. He is with you each step of the way from the moment you are born, to the moment you leave this earth. You are never alone.

So, open your arms really wide, and walk into His loving embrace, and offer your love in return. There is no one anywhere in this entire Universe who loves you like He does.

Now, seriously… don’t you feel better just knowing that?

“…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”

John 28:20 (NKJV)

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Sustenance and Comfort~

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Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)

 

Illnesses can spark fears, worries and suffering with individuals and families, and can be emotionally crippling as we crumble under the pressures that sickness and adversity can bring.

The Bible is the “Voice” of the LORD who can help at all times in our life, but especially during the darkest days of our lives.  If we remember, during our crises, the “Word” can ultimately help the afflicted while seeking prayer for comfort and release from “anxieties” and “fear.”  Which is not from the LORD.

1 John 4:18  strongly emphasizes, that there is no fear in love, because perfect love casts out fear. We were all made in perfect love by our Creator.  Our LORD loves us, and brings peace and comfort, not fear. Fear creates worry, anxiety, and perpetuates in the negativity mode which can spiral out of control. When we do this, we are not perfected in love.  So, cast it away, for it is not from the LORD, and ask for His perfect peace and wisdom to guide you.

Psalm 107:20 is another example and great aspect of His power and love.  It states He sent His word and healed, He rescued them from the grave. Amen!

It is so important during times of stress, worry, pain, and sickness to remember that God ultimately holds the power not only to sustain and nourish us, but essentially, to “heal us.”  I cannot emphasize too much about the importance of keeping the faith amid the pain, worry and uncertainty.  He is there, He will never leave us.  He is our Sovereign God, and He reigns Supreme over all things, good and bad.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 is yet another fine example and strong component to solidify His love for us. He holds the power to offer each of us peace no matter what we are facing. When we seek that peace we are working toward a higher realm in Him as we go through the valley, with having a more God-reliant heart.

Phillipians 4:6 Is one of my favorites.  It tells us outright “not to be anxious about anything” but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God, the Creator and Master, and the One who is in Control of all things at all times. These Bible verses remind us that prayers, thanksgiving, along with petition are vitally important to our faith, and the Spirit in which we should approach God.

Luke 8:50 Jesus informs Jairus, “don’t be afraid; just believe and she will be healed.”  We are human, and with humanity is flesh which is prone to “well— human reactions.”  Fear is in fact a natural reaction to being diagnosed with an illness, or watching someone suffer an uphill health battle…but the Bible is our great source of Comfort, from the LORD who is the “voice” of peace, that Jesus heals. When we read biblical accounts of healing, we should feel confidence that while God’s will and plan triumphs all else, and overcoming health battles, worries, or anxieties, is absolutely possible!  Amen!

Isaiah 41:10 This passage is truly one of such comfort.  Knowing that God is with us, that He will strengthen us, and help us, and will uphold us with His righteous right hand!  He promises to offer comfort to those who seek Him.  When pain, suffering, illnesses, worry, anxiety hit you or a loved one, remember the LORD will ALWAYS guide you through the hard times.

To sum up a vitally crucial message in the LORD, remember this; no matter what happens be sure to place all of your fears, worries and hopes in the LORD.  Navigating tough times can be difficult, but with GOD all things are possible. Amen!

“Father, thank You for Your right hand of righteousness,  for Your love, Your peace, Your willingness to offer Comfort and guidance through all aspects of our lives, help us to remember to glorify You and give You all the praise, no matter what,  Your will be done, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Provisions are Endless~

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“Then I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God, for they shall return to Me with their whole heart.”

Jeremiah 24:7 (NKJV)

I love clouds. The different formations astound and fascinate me. They change within seconds creating different images as they roll by. Sometimes the clouds can be bilowy and graceful, or look menacing and aggressive. No matter, I love them all. Why? Because God is the artist, and His hands the master of all things.

This picture was captured while waiting for hubby to finish an errand… I looked up and smiled, knowing it was God who designed it. Clouds are like people. Each one has a different shape, and appearance. People can be light hearted, or dark and menacing.

In the context of clouds, they all belong to a “family” although each one has a “different name.” Personally my favorite is a “cumulus” cloud. You know the ones that look like big fluffs of marshmallows or cotton candy. These are so beautiful to watch.

People although different in looks, are all part of a “family.” We’re all brothers and sisters belonging to God. Some of us have already surrendered to God’s very capable hands. Some have not, and may never do so. However, irrespective of surrendering, we’re all human and have issues and problems. None of us are protected from a loss, or a hurtful situation. We all go through a medley of issues in our lifetime. Some good, some bad. there’s a balance of highs and lows for everyone. But it’s how we “resolve them” that matters.

God is the same since the beginning of time. He hasn’t changed, and all of His promises that He made to His children still exist to this day. Nothing has changed.

He wants us to seek Him., Jesus told us to “take His yoke” for it is easy and the burden light.” (Matthew 11:30)

His promise was true then, and it is now.

When we run to Him, His righteous hand will uphold and guide us, and make our issues easier. It’s faith that gives us the strength to endure the platitudes of misery. But it’s knowing that He’ll never let us down, and knowing that He’ll never give us “anything that we can’t handle” that’s the most reassuring of all. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

And, most important…He will ALWAYS show us a way out. How fortunate for those who believe and run to Him. How sad for those who don’t know the infinite peace, and joy, in knowing He is there for them.

If we could do things on our own, why would we need God?

He’s our everything for anything at all times. He’s our Holy Holy Lord…our Father.

He wants all of His children to love and trust Him. He longs for you to surrender and bow to Him in submission. All good things will flow to you. Blessings will flow. Love will flow. Life will flow…never ending life. The living waters will rush out for us to partake in. ”

And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.” (Zechariah 14:8)

When we humble ourselves in the Lord, and fully surrender, He will lift us up. He will lift those who need it. He will exalt the humble.

James 4:10 – Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

In all things, seek Him, trust Him fully. Give it to Him, for only God can do all things. Man cannot!

We NEED HIM.

Go to Him in prayer, and in pure heart, and with confidence…He will never forsake you, never leave you.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (Philippians 4:6).

Seek His face, go to Him with a contrite and loving heart.

Accept His will, surrender to His grace.

Remember this always…In His presence is where we are the strongest.

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. ( 2 Corinthians 12:9)

“Father, my Lord, thank You for Your grace, Your love, Your provisions, and Your consuming fire of compassion, I love You, and all honor and glory belong to You now and forever, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: My Sovereign Father~

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“Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith…” Hebrews 12:2 KJV

Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty:

for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine;

thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.

1 Chronicles 29:11 (KJV)

 

 

 

Even though the sovereignty of God is often the subject of theological debates, and contentious ones at that, the doctrine of God’s sovereignty is a reality that has significant impact on our daily lives. In fact, the sovereignty of God has tremendous impact on us in that it removes all cause for needless worry.

We are never to worry because our Father is in control.  He tells us over and over, “be of good courage, and have no fear” in many passages, both in OT and NT.

His ears are always towards His righteous children, who adhere and surrender themselves to Him fully.  (Psalm 34:15)

He is unequivocally the Master of all things, and He has power to do all things at all times.

All things are possible with God, with humans, not so. (Matthew 19:26)

We are subject to grave injustices and dire disappointments when it comes to humans.

God will NEVER let us down.

He will never forsake us.  (Psalms 37:28)

He loves us unconditionally. (John 3:16)

He is HERE now and He always will be.

His promises are many, and His love is boundless.

Trust Him. (Proverbs 3:5-8)