Isaiah 41:10-13 (KJV)

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish. Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

A Pastor this morning was addressing fear, perfect timing for what’s happening right now.

God, is our peace and He tells us “fear not” or “be not afraid” — depending on the version of the Bible in which you read. But the argument is that it is mentioned in the Bible 365 times. This argument  has been debated.  However the point is…God is telling us and assuring us of His promises, that He is with us, and not to be “afraid” and not to “fear.”

When we are filled with faith, and trust Him unconditionally (Proverbs 3:5-8)

He guides our paths, and nourishes our souls, bringing about great emotional, and spiritual health.(Proverbs 3:5-8)

God has a plan for us and as long as we allow “fear” to dominate our lives, we can’t become the person God intended for us to be, according to His will.

Fear can cause all kinds of disorders, “stress, stomach issues, emotional upheavals” and the whole concept of living can be put on “hold” when we allow fear to creep into our lives and mind.

Why should we fear?  After all God didn’t make a spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7)

We are created in perfect love. ( 1 John 4:18)

God loves you.

God loves me.

God loves us.

And what He said all those years ago is STILL TRUE!

So, accept God’s truth.

He is our God and He will help us and He will uphold us and He will strengthen us and hold us up with His righteous right hand!!  

When you feel that “feeling creeping in” give it to God and lay it down on the basis of who He is and what He is.

Let go of that fear, and give it to Him.

Because through Christ, we are victorious and “greater is the One in us than the one in the world.” (1 John 4:4) 

“Father God I have nothing to fear for You are with me always, and You have promised to hold me up, and hold and guide me, and bring me peace, I’m victorious through You, and I thank You for Your love, promises and Your Word, in Jesus name, Amen.”

For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

Ephesians 2:13-14 (KJV)

People are murmuring, and finding it exceedingly difficult during this time of self-isolation, social distancing, and quarantine because of the virus around the world.  It can be upsetting for many.  For example, the elderly population, who are perhaps the most vulnerable, are  growing increasingly lonely, and anxious. They’re missing companionship, and/or visitors who were part of a routine they were accustomed to having as part of their routine. Chaos

Then there are children, who are suddenly experiencing a whole different world, unlike any they’ve ever known. They might see their parents fighting, due to the stress overload that can come during adversity.  The children miss their playmates, and adventures or outings. The parents miss their alone time, or freedom to do things while children are in school.  Chaos.

Then there are the front line workers. They are the “heroes” in this scenario. Helping those inflicted with this new virus that has descended upon us like a swarm of locusts.  There is a lack of masks, suits, beds, ventilators, hospital rooms.  Chaos

My dear friends in the LORD….we are all in this together.

Chaos is not from the LORD.

No, in fact, He is the opposite.

He is peace, tranquility, and love defined. Isaiah 9:6

This is fundamentally a difficult time for sure. But, it’s not too big for OUR GOD.   He promises to hear His children’s voices. He hears their cries from the holy hills of Heaven. Psalm 3:4 

If you’re able and willing. Perhaps the LORD might lead you to “help” someway at this time.  Maybe, bring a message to an “elderly individual” leaving it at the doorway, along with food.  That would lift their spirits enormously.  Offer to shop for them to keep them safe while this is going on.  PEACE

If you’re able and willing. Perhaps the LORD might lead you to help parents of young children. Being creative on a social platform, maybe with a song, a game they can play along with live.  A pod broadcast.  To free up the parents and entertain the children.  PEACE

If you’re able and willing. Perhaps the LORD might lead you to help with the front line workers.  Sending them a note of thanks. Posting online a huge letter of thanks, or speaking on a pod cast…or Facebook a thank you for all of your hard work.   PEACE

We will get through this… but only WITH GOD. 

No one can wipe out a virus like God can.

Only God, can give the wisdom to those administering medication and care, only God can stop the “waves of the virus in it’s tracks.”

Only God, can bring about a cure.

Only God, and His peace can stop Chaos in its tracks!

He is the Author of Salvation.

He is the Prince of Peace.

And, He is our Head Shepherd.

 Chaos or Peace? 

Open His Book and Trust in the One and Only!

“Father God, lead us through this terrific time of trial and tribulation, as we go forward, we know You are holding us up, and protecting us under your mighty wings of love, with You in our storm we know we will see the rainbow and tranquility in days to come, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32-32 (KJV)

Harsh language that proceeds from the mouths of speakers, can most definitely corrupt minds and behavior, of those who hear them. In this sense, Christians should be keenly aware,  and “beware” of all such dialogue and encounters.

By being a Christian it is our inherent duty to seek the Kingdom and face of God, and the blessings of God to bring individuals to think seriously, and with the mind of Christ.  We are to encourage one another in so doing we are representatives of the body of Christ.

We are to forgive as well…as our Father forgives us. If we don’t forgive, how can the Father forgive us? Are we not hypocrites if we don’t do so?

The principles of Christianity, and the love in our hearts are an outward expression of Christ and His ways. We are to display humility along with courteous behavior in order to honor His Word and commandments.

In the current crisis that is happening in the world, with the Coronavirus, some people can lose sight of their Christian “clothes” whereby a totally different “clothing” may cover us. That is to say, we may become a hindrance to our faith if we allow “the world” to creep in. This can bring about a game changing outcome. When we are tested in such horrific measures, we might resort to behaviors and a mind-set that is totally out of character from which we are, or have been.

Look to God for strength and guidance. Stop and think of Jesus and how he’d handle it. Go to the Spirit from within to “solve and lead and direct” us during stressful hours and moments. It is only when we meditate on the Word, run to Him for the answers, and get on our knees in prayer that will allow us to endure, through the name of Jesus.

Remember brothers and sisters, God with us always. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He promised that and His promises never fade, or expire!

Do all things unto Christ and be strong and courageous for He is with us.

In the cloud of darkness…shines a Light of truth.

Look just beyond the horizon, and find His light shining through!

“Father God, may I always be an example of Christ in all that I say and do, thank You for the Comforter and guidance of the Spirit, Your light is what I seek this day and always, in Jesus precious name, Amen.”

When we are seeking answers, where do we go?

When we are in need of help, to whom do we turn?

The answer, my brothers and sisters, should readily come to our lips—there is only One who can substantiate our provisions, through His Sovereign power and might, that of course, is the LORD!

Am I saying “don’t seek guidance and counsel with friends and family?”  No.

There are family and friends who can offer themselves as a “sounding board” or perhaps as a “vessel” of the LORD, bringing solutions to your inquiries.  However, be careful not to overlook the obvious. And that is, God has all the answers, solutions, directions, and providence for all of our needs. His Word, His promises, all right there in the good book. But most important, in the Comforter, the Holy Spirit that dwells within.

We can all “rise up” in the name of Jesus, no matter what’s happening within the confines of our home, neighborhood, or the world.  In His powerful name, we can all “rise up” and be strong through Christ.

Listen, how amazing the LORD is.

He promised us that His “promises” are truth and life and the way.

When Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life”(John 14:6) it was one of the seven “I Am” statements of Jesus.  And one of many promises that stands forever.

“The flower will fade and the grass will wither, but the Word of the LORD stands forever. (Isaiah 40:8) 

The Words of the LORD are powerful, energizing, comforting, stimulating, exhirlarating, and potent and so much more. I could go on all day and list a number of Words to describe Him, and His loving ways, but most of you reading this right now, know Him, and what He’s capable of.

Acknowledging Him, and following Him, is an inherent gift from above. His grace, and love, and promises are from the Father of lights. It comes from above. Straight from His heart to ours! Amen.

Jesus name is power.

The song “There is power in the name of Jesus” is honest and foretelling, as witnessed by many in the past, and this very moment in time.

Miracles still happen. Miracles are going on all around us. The reason we don’t hear about many today? Well, that could be because so many have turned away from God, thereby pushing God out of the equation. Many thrust the LORD into the background, instead of the “foreground of our lives.”

The other could be because the non-secular media, and journalists, just don’t report on such things. It seems today they’re more centered on troubles, woe, misery and chaos, or lies.  And, we all know who the “father of lies is” and the “author of chaos is.”  Without giving that entity credit by mentioning by name, we know who it is.

Our LORD is the Author of Peace and Truth and Life!  

If you’re not experiencing life as it was meant to be experienced, ask yourself why? Might it be because you’re not acquainted with our LORD? Might it be because you’re not familiar with His Word?

May I invite you all right this moment to pick up His Holy Word and take a look at some of His promises. He promises to give us peace, and not as the world gives it…but in abundance!  He promises He is the Way!  He promises He is the Truth!  He promises us He is the LIFE!

Do you want to LIVE and not merely exist?

Do you want the Truth and not lies?

Do you want to know the way, instead of being lost?

If you’ve answered yes to one of more of the above…then pick up His Word and surrender to the One and Only.

Then “rise up in the name of Jesus” and LIVE!

“Father God, thank You for Your promises, truth and power through Your name, I choose You and surrender to You for direction, guidance, answers, and provisions in my life, all glory and honor belong to You, in Jesus name, Amen.”

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

Joshua 1:9 (KJV)

Embracing God in a fractured world can be challenging for those of “luke warm” faith. Consequently, it can be shattering to those who have none.  But for those with deep unwavering faith it proves to be the life-line and anchor in which we dock our ship, with the LORD at the Helm.

Knowing the promises of God can be a balm for the soul, in particularly trying times, and especially calming during a crisis overall.

The world is going through thread baring times which, if we’re not clinging to the LORD, can unravel at an expeditious pace.

So, what can we do?

Go to the WORD!

Cling to His promises!

Ask for His help and guidance!

Look to Him for answers!

And praise Him while giving Him all the glory, no matter what.

He overcame the world, and nothing can prohibit God, from performing miraculous events.

He is in the business of miracles, remember?

And, He is still in control at this moment in time.

He has the last say.

He holds us in His very capable hands.

He is the light that shines into our darkness and brings along the rainbows at the end of the storms.

So prepare for a storm  and then expect the best, because with God at the helm, we will eventually dock in calm waters.

Look for the rainbow, it’s coming!

“Father God, thank You for Your light that shines no matter what, Your light is my guide, and I thank You, for Your love, and promises, in Jesus precious name, Amen.”

Some scriptures that will bring peace and hope to our souls:

Joshua 1:9
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 91
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 41:13
1 Corinthians 16:13
Hebrews 11:1
Hebrews 13:5-6

Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”

Psalm 91 (KJV)

This is what I’ve been reading and holding in my heart each day as we go through the perilous and “anxious” days of the Coronavirus.  It is touching all of us in heart spirit and soul.

Trusting in God, and knowing His promises are real, with no expiration, is the continuous assurance I/we need in these days.  Knowing that He is with us, no matter what is happening, should bring rewards of peace to our inner spirit.

Reading, and taking into account, each and every word of Psalm 91, is exactly what we need to embrace at this time in our life/lives. This is when the very timbre of our inner selves are brought to the fires of probation, in terms of believing no matter how deep the valley, or how hot the furnace is. With God providing for us and sustaining us in all of our needs, we should be able to trudge forward with a tenacity of strength that we only can get through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Trusting God and taking refuge in His promises, and His love, is the biggest “weapon” and “defense” for our present day times, and for ALL  days thereafter.

My brother and sisters, may God be with you all at this time. I pray for a fast and speedy clearance of this current “monster” that is circling about us  seeking to devour us and destroy us, this is when we hold tighter to the promises and Word of the Lord.

Believe in Him!

Trust in Him!

Allow Him to quench your thirst, and to extinguish your rising “anxiety” and bring forth an overflow of peace and joy.

With God in our corner, we can only “win” and the “enemy” will always lose!

“Dear Father, we embrace Your promises, and Your love, to thwart the fiery darts that come upon us, that no harm will come to us Your children, that no matter what is happening all around us, we shall abide and remain in the shelter of Your mighty wings, we look to You, Abba Father, to bring this current time of crisis under control, and stop this virus, while protecting us, in Jesus name Amen.”

Psalm 91 (KJV)

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
 
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
 
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
 
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
 
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
 
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
 
Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
 
There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
 
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
 
They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
 
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
 
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
 
He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
 
With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

“For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.” —

Psalm 48:14

What a wonderful promise from God!

The Bible tells us that our Father has promised to guide the believer unto death. Guide in Hebrew is, nahag, translated… “to drive, lead, guide, conduct.” It is important for those of faith to understand that guide means just that…to guide. It is a gentle way to lead us onto the right path. God would never “force us”— but instead He has promised to lead us through this life. Hoping that we will do the “right thing” and so He would never force us to do the “right thing. ”

I wanted to be clear about the “guide” promise, so I’ve repeated it a couple of different ways. It’s so vital to our purpose and realization of faith in God.

In the Bible, God has never forced anyone to do things. He guides and hopes we listen, obey and pay heed to His gentle nudge.

He didn’t force David to kill Goliath.  David listened and had faith in God and was guided.

He didn’t force Noah to build an Ark. Noah listened, had faith,  obeyed God, and so He was guided.

God never forced Himself on humans. He always gives free choice, and His promises are real and forthcoming to those who embrace them.

Deep abiding faith is electric and powerful. It allows God to use us according to His purpose and will for our lives. He makes things happen, as He guides and leads us.

John 10:11-27 states: “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep… My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” We are the sheep and Jesus Christ is the Divine Shepherd who guides us. As we follow Him, He leads us to the green pastures and the still water (Psalm 23)

Today in the uncertainty of our world, with media speaking about unthinkable terrors, including viruses, earthquakes, tornadoes, wars, conflict…isn’t it wonderful as faithful followers that we can RUN to Him and follow Him as He guides and leads?

It is up to us to trust Him (Proverbs 3:5-8) and to look to Him as He continuously guides and leads us unto paths of righteousness. He will bring us through any valley, and never leave or forsake us.

But…we make the choice.

When we trust and know He is God, as we are still and acknowledging His magnificence and Sovereignty (Psalm 46:10) we will be superbly rewarded and our cup will overflow.

The bounty and joy from loving Him and surrendering to Him as He leads and guides us as we embrace His promises is exhilarating! He knows us so well. He knows our heart, thoughts and desires. He promises to deliver on all of His promises. But…he will never force us. That choice He leaves to us.

Making the choice is yours…which way will you go?

“Father God, thank You for Your hands of grace, as you lead, and guide me, through all the roads in my life, and thank You, for Your promises, I shall listen, follow, and acknowledge You, all the days of my life, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Psalms 139:1-6:

“O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.”

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”

Hebrews 13:8 (KJV)

Knowing Jesus and having Him with me in a close intimate relationship is a gift and a treasure I hold fast in my heart.  Knowing Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever…a source of joy and peace that is embedded in my soul.

We all try to be good Christians and we do our part as we get into the daily grind of living. Each one of us in possession of different personalities, backgrounds, and gifts given to us from above; however we all share a common cord, a spiritual umbilicus if you will, to Christ our Lord.

Those of us fortunate enough to “know Him now” are blessed indeed. As Jesus said to Simon:  He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 16:15-17 ( KJV)

Blessed are we all who know Him now, for He will know us in heaven and great will be our rewards.

But right now, embrace Him and enjoy the gifts He’s blessed you with. Enjoy His presence from within to without, and shine your light as an example of His glorious light!

Look around, see the world, know the signs, and remember the promises of the Bible. They’re all there, thousands and thousands of years old, but as “new as the morning sunrise” — He is with us always, today and always.

Unfortunate circumstances prevail but won’t trump God!  God is the winner and Reigns Supreme and is the Omnipotent and ever present and Power Great I AM!

Knowing He is with us every step of the way is a gift from the Heavenly Father of light.  He is the anchor in the storms, and the lighthouse in the fog, and the house in which we dwell all the days of our life.

Are you embracing the gift of Jesus?

“Father, I know that You are with us always, and that You are the same yesterday, today, tomorrow, and forever, thank You for Your promises, for Your light, for Your love, and for Your protection every single second of life here, and forever, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Matthew 28:20 NKJV

 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

There are a myriad of concerns, and issues, that have the world in its grip, threatening to pull back the very layers of Christianity, that most of us are firmly rooted in. Alas, there are those who haven’t the layers of “protection” in terms of His Word, and promises, and therefore, are missing out on peace, that only God offers, to each and every one of us who believe.

Those who follow Him, Jesus promises, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world give, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let is be fearful…” (John 14:27)

If you will recall, Jesus, spoke these loving, and comforting words, during the most difficult time on earth, the night before His brutal crucifixion.  Yet, here was our Savior, providing and offering solace, and comfort with His overwhelming promise, that is as honey and balm for our souls.

Jesus, has many names, and one of which is Lord of Peace. That He is our Peace, is the truth that Christians embrace during good times; and during our trials and valleys.

Paul, tells us how to experience God’s peace, instead of anxious behavior, or catastrophic thinking, that we should pray with thankfulness. That we should tap into the knowledge of Christ’ promise, and therefore have no reason for anxiety.

Anxiety or anxious behavior, is something we are instructed to put off, because of our faith in Him.

Praying, is the how we are to approach our situations, or life overall.

And peace is the fundamental end result we receive, as promised by Christ Himself.

This peace, that comes from the LORD, who is our Sovereign, Omnipotent Creator of the Universe, is something that every child of His knows, and it is truly indescribable to those who “do not know.”

Our LORD, promises us His peace, which is real….and not as the world gives it, no…but as He gives it.

Praise Him, because when you’ve experienced it,  through faith,  it is joyful. It’s sheer exhilaration that far exceeds verbal explanation. It must be “felt” to know what His promise means.

And the intimate ongoing relationship that we have with Him, through prayers, and dedication, and trust…is a daily deposit that has dividends that continue to grow exponentially! Developing into a full blown maturity that will be “pay day” at the end of our life.

Praying for others, and giving of ourselves, in purpose, according to His will…is inherently a blessing, that is provided by the Master Himself. The rewards of praying are satisfying in numerous ways.  But knowing Him, loving Him, and realizing He’s listening, and loving us all the while… is a tangible art of recognition in who He is…and who we are!

His children, His sheep, His lambs.

Pray fervently.

Love deeply.

And trust fully.

In His promises, and in His love.

Remember, Jesus’ words: “Be anxious for nothing.” In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made it clear that anxiety stems from a lack of faith, and from a wrong focus on the things of this world, instead of on the kingdom of God. (Matthew 6:25-34)

We are human, and subject to the “afflictions of flesh” but the anxiety we face, and feel at times, we must confront it, and realize that we need to pray and seek God and His kingdom in all we do. When we do…we are grafted onto the truth of His promises, and His provisions to see us through everything and anything.

Our Father wants Christians to have joy in every situation, not just so that they’ll be happy, but so that they will be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ  (Philippians 2:14-18.) 

There are so many things Christians can talk about concerning their faith. Things such as testimonies, miracles, moments when they come to the LORD, prayers that are answered, etc.  However, feeling safe, calm, and secure, knowing He loves us, beyond a capacity in which we cannot comprehend.   He will always be with us…every single moment of our life, until our last breath.  Then, we get to spend Eternity with Him as we reap the rewards of our faith filled lives. Oh Joy!

Are you equipped with the belief of His promises? 

“Father God, thank You for listening to our prayers, for offering us Your peace, and for loving us unconditionally, in all that we do, we do with thanks, and unrelenting praise, in Jesus, precious, and most Holy name, Amen.”