trusting in god

DEAR GOD: Your Righteousness Through Christ In Us~

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The Righteousness of God (1), By Femi Aribisala - Premium Times Opinion

And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God – Philippians 1:9-11 (ESV)

 The Apostle Paul’s prayer for the Philippians, found in Philippians 1:9-11, is a profound expression of his desire for their spiritual growth and maturity. He prays that their love may abound more and more, coupled with knowledge and discernment, so that they may live pure and blameless lives, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ. This passage offers rich insights into the Christian journey, emphasizing the importance of love, wisdom, and righteousness.

  The Journey of Grace

In a small village nestled among rolling hills, lived a young woman named Grace. Grace was known for her kind heart and willingness to help others. However, she often felt overwhelmed by the complexities of life and the decisions she had to make.

One day, Grace came across Philippians 1:9-11 during her morning devotion. The words resonated deeply within her. She realized that while she had love, she needed to grow in knowledge and discernment to navigate life’s challenges effectively.

Grace began to pray earnestly for wisdom and understanding. She sought counsel from her pastor and started studying the Bible more diligently. Over time, she noticed a transformation in her life. Her decisions became more aligned with God’s will, and she felt a deeper sense of peace and purpose.

One evening, Grace encountered a difficult situation. A close friend had wronged her, and she struggled with feelings of hurt and betrayal. Remembering Paul’s prayer, she chose to respond with love and forgiveness, guided by discernment. This act of grace not only restored her friendship but also brought glory to God.

Morals and Takeaways

  1. Abounding Love: True Christian love is not static; it grows and abounds, influencing every aspect of our lives.
  2. Knowledge and Discernment: Love must be accompanied by wisdom and discernment to make righteous decisions.
  3. Purity and Blamelessness: Striving for purity and blamelessness prepares us for the day of Christ.
  4. Fruit of Righteousness: Our actions should reflect the righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, bringing glory to God.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can you cultivate a love that abounds more and more in your daily life?
  2. In what areas do you need to seek greater knowledge and discernment?
  3. How can you strive to live a pure and blameless life in preparation for the day of Christ?
  4. What fruits of righteousness are evident in your life, and how do they bring glory to God?

Meditative Thoughts

Reflect on the ways God’s love has transformed your life. Consider how you can grow in knowledge and discernment to better reflect His love to others. Meditate on the fruits of righteousness and how they manifest in your actions and decisions.

Supporting Scriptures

  • 1 Corinthians 13:1-3: “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.”
  • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
  • Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word and the wisdom it imparts. We pray that our love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment. Help us to approve what is excellent and to live pure and blameless lives, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ. May our lives bring glory and praise to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

I pray that this post will resonate with you and provide meaningful reflections on Philippians 1:9-11 – In Christ’ name – Amen.

DEAR GOD: Comfort Is Only Found In You~

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"The God of All Comfort" - April 28th, 2020 Live Stream Devotional ...

Let’s delve into the rich meaning of Philippians 4:19. This verse, penned by the apostle Paul, resonates across time and speaks to both the early Christians and us today, especially in these days which presents with chaos and turbulence throughout the world. We will find an amass amount of comfort knowing and believing in His Word, and His promises. When we focus on God’s great glory and love for us, it becomes a lot easier to navigate in a world of uncertainty – because the LORD is real and His love and mercy never waver. In a world of disappointments and harsh evil – the LIGHT of the LORD shines and brings elements of peace and certainty to our lives.

The Context:

Paul wrote these words while imprisoned, facing adversity and uncertainty. Despite his circumstances, he exudes joy and contentment. His confidence lies not in earthly abundance but in God’s unwavering provision. His countenance was always steady and confident in God’s love and provisions, even at the darkest moments in his life. He knew that the light and love of the LORD would bring him through everything he was going through. That no matter how bleak or hopeless the circumstances, he knew in his heart that the LORD would and could change the situation he was in by a wave of his hand and mercy. As it is proven and written so many times in the Holy Word of the LORD.

The Verse:

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19, ESV)

What It Means to God’s Children:

  1. Divine Provision: Paul assures the Philippians that God will meet their needs. This extends beyond material necessities to spiritual guidance, comfort, and emotional sustenance.
  2. Generosity: The context reveals that the Philippians were generous in their giving. Paul’s confidence in God’s provision stems from their sacrificial hearts.

Relevance Today:

  1. Trust in God: Like the Philippians, we too will always face challenges. This verse reminds us to trust God’s faithfulness even when circumstances seem overwhelming and completely dreary. Trust in the LORD and He will always guide your path. (Proverbs 3:5-8)
  2. Contentment: Our needs may differ, but God’s promise remains. Contentment lies not in abundance but in knowing that God provides according to His riches. And all that He supplies and gives is according to His will and purpose for us in this lifetime.

Morals and Reflective Questions:

  • Generosity: How can we cultivate a spirit of generosity, knowing that God blesses those who give?
  • Priorities: Are we seeking God’s Kingdom first?
  • Belief: Are we trusting that our needs will follow?

Meditative Thoughts:

  • God’s Abundance: Picture His vast riches, flowing toward you.
  • Surrender: Release anxiety; God knows your needs intimately.

Supporting Scriptures:

  • Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
  • Psalm 23:1: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

Closing Unified Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to provide. Help us trust You, knowing that our needs are met in completely in and through Christ. May we live generously and seek Your kingdom above all else, today and all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Final Moral Takeaway:

God’s provision transcends circumstances. Trust Him, live generously in His love, live by His commandments and doctrine as you go through this lifetime, honor Him and obey Him, and you will find contentment in His abundant grace all the days you remain here on earth. As you study His word and these verses, may they bring peace to you, and may you exalt and glorify Him daily…

All glory and honor and praise to You O’ LORD!

DEAR GOD: Your Love Preserves Me In All I Do~

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1 John 4:8 God is Love Bible Verse

  “Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.”
(Psalm 16:1, ESV)

Preserving Refuge –In the quiet chambers of our hearts, we seek refuge—a sanctuary where our souls find solace amidst life’s tumultuous storms. Psalm 16:1, attributed to David, echoes this universal longing for safety and protection. Let us journey together through this sacred verse, uncovering its layers of significance.

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 Seeking Refuge

David, a warrior and poet, understood the fragility of human existence. His life was marked by battles, betrayal, and danger. Yet, in the midst of adversity, he turned to God as his refuge. The word for “preserve “implies safeguarding, keeping, and cherishing. David pleads with God to preserve him—to shield him from harm and provide a safe haven.

Trusting in God Alone

David’s declaration, “for in You I take refuge,” reveals profound trust. He acknowledges that true security lies not in earthly fortifications but in the Almighty. In a world of shifting sands, David anchors his soul in the unchanging Rock. We, too, can find refuge by entrusting our lives to God’s unwavering care.

Reflective Questions

  1. Where do we seek refuge when life’s storms rage?
  2. Are we relying on our own strength or turning to God?
  3. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God as our ultimate refuge?

Moral Thoughts

The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency

Often, we build false fortresses—wealth, relationships, achievements—believing they will shield us. Yet, they crumble, leaving us vulnerable. True refuge lies beyond our abilities; it resides in the One who upholds the universe.

Vulnerability and Authenticity

Acknowledging our need for refuge requires vulnerability. It’s an admission that we are not invincible. Authentic faith embraces weakness, allowing God’s strength to shine through.

Meditative Takeaway

  • Reflect: Pause and consider where you seek refuge. Invite God into those spaces.
  • Trust: Embrace vulnerability, knowing that God’s preserving hand is your true shelter.
  • Pray: Offer your heart’s cry to the One who preserves and protects.

Additional Insights

The Fragile Beauty of Trust

Trusting God is not a sign of weakness; it’s an acknowledgment of our humanity. Like delicate petals, our trust in God blooms even in adversity.

The Refuge of Community

Sometimes, God’s refuge comes through human connections—a friend’s listening ear, a neighbor’s kindness. Let us be vessels of refuge for others, reflecting God’s love.

The Eternal Refuge

Our earthly refuges are temporary, but God’s refuge endures forever. As we navigate life’s uncertainties, may we find solace in the eternal arms that hold us. In Psalm 16:1, we find an invitation—to lay down our self-sufficiency and find refuge in the arms of the Eternal, One and only LORD!

Unity Prayer:

“Dearest Heavenly Father, preserve us as we take refuge in You. Shield us from life’s storms, both seen and unseen. May our trust in You deepen, and may our hearts find rest in Your unwavering love, in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

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May this verse resonate within all of us, guiding us toward the unshakable refuge that transcends time and circumstance, guiding us as we meditate on the power of His Word and promises, that we can always trust in the LORD, and rely on Him for all things at ALL times… 

DEAR GOD: So Safe In Your Shadow~

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Psalm 91:4 (KJV) — Today's Verse for Tuesday, October 9, 2007

LORD GOD MY REFUGE & MY PROTECTOR

 

Psalm 91 is a beautiful and reassuring passage that speaks of God’s protection, comfort, and care for those who trust in Him. Let’s delve deeper into this psalm, focusing on the second verse and its broader themes, and how it pertains to God’s children this every day!

Psalm 91: Dwelling in the Secret Place

Psalm 91 is often called the “Soldier’s Psalm” or the “Psalm of Protection.” It provides a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering love and shelter for His people.  It is a very powerful and reasuring psalm for Christians and those of faith – as it certainly outlines and defines God’s unwavering love and support for us, His children.

Verse 1-2: Dwelling in the Secret Place

“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 91:1-2)

The Secret Place:

Imagine a hidden chamber within God’s dwelling—a place of intimacy and safety. When we dwell there, we experience His presence and protection. However, no matter where we are or what we are doing, God’s portection looms large and consistently of those who follow Him, and His Word. Those who put their faith in Him and those who love Him fully and completely!

The Shadow of the Almighty:

This phrase suggests nearness. Just as we walk close to a companion to feel their shadow, we can draw near to God and find refuge in His shadow. Everyone near to God is in His shadow – His shadow a significant covering for those who seek Him and His love. His Presence is with us as we go through our life each day, and this Psalm is a special reminder of His Omnipotence and His Sovereign Power!

Reflections and Questions

  • Where is your secret place with God? -Consider moments when you’ve felt closest to Him—during prayer, worship, or quiet reflection.
  • How does God’s protection impact your daily life? -Reflect on times when you’ve sensed His shelter during challenges or trials.

Verse 9-16: God’s Promises

“Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling.” (Psalm 91:9-10, NKJV)

  • God’s Promises: He assures us of safety, deliverance, and victory. We are not exempt from difficulties, but God’s Glorious Presence sustains us.
  • Angelic Protection: His Angels guard us, ensuring our safety. Their presence reminds us that God fights on our behalf.

 

Unity Prayer  

“Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for being our refuge and fortress. As we dwell in Your secret place, shield us from harm and fear. May we trust You completely, knowing that no evil can prevail against us. Send Your heavenly host of angels to watch over us and grant us courage to face life’s challenges, In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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Meditative Thoughts

God’s shadow: Imagine standing under the protective shadow of a mighty oak tree. God’s shadow is a gazillion times more secure and then some!

Walking in faith: Trusting God means walking closely with Him, allowing His Shadow to fall upon us. And to feel comfort and secure in His Presence!

May you meditate and pause for reflection on Psalm 91 -and may it strengthen your faith and remind you of God’s unfailing love-always. 🙏

 

Psalm 91:4 - Wellspring Christian Ministries

DEAR GOD: Heal Us, Lead Us, Love Us -Always~

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There is power in the name, there is healing in the name of Jesus ...

Hezekiah’s Healing and Restoration

In this verse, we witness a powerful moment in the life of King Hezekiah, who ruled over Judah during a tumultuous period. Hezekiah fell seriously ill, and the prophet Isaiah delivered a message from the Lord: “Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the Lord. And I will add fifteen years to your life…”  
2 Kings 20:5-6 (KJV)

Let’s take a closer look at this verse and delve in a little closer and deeper to what it means and could mean to us today in this world.

  1. Hezekiah’s Desperation: Hezekiah was in distress, facing a life-threatening illness. His prayer and tears reflected his deep longing for healing and restoration.
  2. God’s Compassion: The Lord responded to Hezekiah’s cry. Despite the king’s imperfections, God’s compassion extended to him because of his lineage—Hezekiah was a descendant of David, a man after God’s own heart.
  3. Healing and Timing: God promised healing. The specific mention of the third day adds significance. It echoes the resurrection theme—the third day when Jesus rose from the dead. Hezekiah’s healing foreshadows the ultimate healing we receive through Christ.

Relevance for Christians Today

Prayer and Tears: Like Hezekiah, we face trials, sickness, and emotional struggles. Our prayers and tears matter to God. He hears us and responds with compassion. He listens to every single prayer and sees every single thing we are experiencing and going through, and He never stops caring!

Divine Timing: Sometimes God’s healing doesn’t come instantly. We must trust His timing. The third day symbolizes hope beyond our immediate circumstances. Jesus’ resurrection reminds us of victory over sin and death. We are to “wait on the LORD and know He is God!” (Psalm 46:10)

The House of the LORD: Hezekiah was instructed to go to the temple. For us, it represents the Church—the community of believers-and we are ONE body in CHRIST. The Church is Christ. And that “church” is within each of us. We find healing, encouragement, and restoration in fellowship with other Christians, as we share the love of Christ and power of Christ. And especially by reading His Word, believing in His Word, “hearing His voice” and embracing His commandments and Gospel of Christ!

Reflective Questions

  • How do you approach God in times of need?
  • Have you experienced healing or restoration in your life?
  • What role does community play in your spiritual journey?

Powerful Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, like Hezekiah, we bring our prayers and tears before You. You see our hearts, our struggles, and our longing for healing. Grant us patience to wait for Your perfect timing. May we find solace in the fellowship of believers, but mainly in YOU, knowing that Your Church is a place of restoration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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Meditative Take Away Thoughts “On the third day, He rose again.” Let this truth anchor your faith, knowing that God’s promises endure beyond our present circumstances. That He is with us always, and He will support us through everything we are going through, all the days of our lives, and beyond!

 

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: Assurance Of Your Presence Is Reassuring~

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God's Presence - Free Personal Growth Resources

In the book of Jeremiah, chapter 29, verse 12, we find a promise of a profound connection between God and His people: “Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” This verse is a beacon of hope, a reminder that in seeking God with a sincere heart, we are heard.

The Assurance of Being Heard

In a world brimming with ugly noise and overwhelming distractions, the assurance that our voice is heard by the Divine is deeply comforting. Jeremiah 29:12 is set within a letter sent by the prophet Jeremiah to the exiles in Babylon, offering them guidance and hope during a time of uncertainty and longing for home. It speaks to the moral imperative of maintaining faith, stirring our very souls and the importance of prayer, even when circumstances seem hopeless, grim and dire.

The Moral Imperative of Hope

The moral lesson here is one of perseverance in faith. The Israelites, far from their homeland and feeling abandoned, are promised that their prayers are not in vain. This teaches us that in our own times of exile—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—our hope should not waver. The act of calling upon God is an act of trust, a belief that despite our current struggles, there is a plan for our welfare, “plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

Reflective Question

  • How often do we, in our moments of despair, forget the power of reaching out in prayer?
  • Do we truly believe that we are heard, or do we let the cacophony of our trials drown out our faith?

 Today as we go about our business, be calm and confident knowing we walk with the LORD.” Be grateful to the LORD. For all we endeavor to aspire, in all we are, and in every moment, we are here on earth – it is a gift from God-and we should always be thankful and glorify our Father all the days of our lives.

Are you calling upon the LORD? He’s listening.

“Dear Heavenly Father, In the quietude of this moment, we reach out to You, echoing the words of Jeremiah. We call upon You, knowing that You are listening, that our voices are not lost in the void. Grant us the strength to maintain hope when the horizon seems distant, and the courage to seek You with all our hearts. May we always remember that You are near, ready to listen, and eager to guide us back to Your embrace, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May God’s voice that is firmly rooted in scripture, invite us to reflect on the constancy of His loving Omnipotence and His Holy Presence through the power of prayer. May it encourage us to hold onto hope and to remember that we are never truly alone in our struggles.

DEAR GOD: Your Peace Transcends Beyond Time~

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Peace I Leave With You My Peace I Give You HD Jesus Wallpapers | HD ...

“Let the Peace of Jesus Christ Rule in Your Hearts”

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where chaos and noise often drown out moments of tranquility, the scripture from Colossians 3:15, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,” emerges as a beacon of serenity and harmony. This verse is not merely a suggestion; it is an imperative, a command that carries with it the weight of divine wisdom and the promise of a life transformed.

The Essence of Christ’s Peace

The peace of Christ is unlike any worldly peace. It is not the absence of trouble but the presence of a profound assurance that transcends circumstances. To let this peace rule in our hearts is to allow it to govern our actions, decisions, and reactions. It is to submit to its authority, letting it arbitrate when conflict arises within us or around us. This peace is a gift, one that was purchased through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross and is freely offered to all who believe in Him.

The Call to Unity

Colossians 3:15 also reminds us that we are called to peace as members of one body. This is a call to unity, to live in harmony with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It is a reminder that our interactions with others should be characterized by the love and grace that have been shown to us. When the peace of Christ rules in our hearts, it breaks down barriers of hostility and builds bridges of fellowship.

The Attitude of Gratitude

Moreover, the latter part of the verse, “And be thankful,” is not to be overlooked. Gratitude is the natural response to the recognition of Christ’s peace in our lives. It is an acknowledgment that every breath, every moment of calm, every resolved conflict is a gift from above. A thankful heart is a heart at peace, one that sees the good in every situation and gives credit where credit is due.

Living Out the Peace of Christ

To live out the peace of Christ is to walk in step with the Spirit, to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit in every aspect of life. It is to choose patience over impatience, kindness over cruelty, and humility over pride. It is to forgive as we have been forgiven and to love as we have been loved. The peace of Christ compels us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

Closing Moral:

The moral of this scripture is clear: peace is not just a state of being-but instead it is an active choice, a daily decision to let the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ govern our hearts and lives. It is a commitment to reflect His peace in a world that desperately needs it.

Closing Questions:

How can we more effectively let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts in practical ways? What steps can we take to ensure that this peace is not just an internal experience but also evident in our relationships and interactions with others?

 “Dear Lord, I thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding, the peace that Your Son, Jesus Christ, offers to me. Help me to let this peace rule in my heart, guiding me in every decision and action. May I be an instrument of Your peace, spreading love and unity wherever I go. Teach me to be thankful in all circumstances, recognizing Your hand in every part of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Trusting In The Stillness~

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Waiting on God - YouTube~God’s Perfect Timing~ 

“Be still, and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10).

This powerful command invites us to pause, reflect, and acknowledge God’s Sovereignty over our lives. In a world that prizes speed and efficiency, waiting on God’s timing is always a profound act of faith. It requires us to relinquish control and trust in His will and His plans, even when it unfolds at a pace that challenges our human patience.

The Divine Schedule

The Bible is replete with verses that affirm God’s perfect timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1- “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” This verse reassures us that our lives are not a series of random events. Instead, they are perfectly planned and ordered by our Father above- and interwoven into our paths and life overall- where every thread has its appointed time to shine.

Similarly, Isaiah 40:31 encourages those who wait on the Lord to renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles. Waiting is not a passive state but an active engagement with faith, where we draw closer to God and gain new perspectives.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can embracing stillness enhance your relationship with God?
  • In what ways have you experienced the benefits of God’s timing in your life?

The Assurance of God’s Faithfulness

God’s promises are unwavering, and His faithfulness is timeless.  2 Peter 3:8 – “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” Our perception of time pales in comparison to God’s eternal viewpoint. He orchestrates events with precision, ensuring that His promises come to fruition at the perfect moment.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does understanding God’s view of time change your approach to waiting?
  • Can you recall a time when God’s timing differed from yours, yet the outcome was better than expected?

The Call to Action

While waiting on God, we are not called to mindless idleness. Galatians 6:9 exhorts us to not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Our waiting period is an opportunity to serve, grow, and prepare for the blessings that lie ahead. It is a time to embrace the LORD and His will and His love for us, knowing His plans for us to prosper are all part of the Divine outcome. (Jeremiah 29:11).

Reflection Questions:

  • What actions can you take during your waiting period to align with God’s will?
  • How can you encourage others who are struggling with waiting on God’s timing?

 

“My Father, in the stillness of Your presence, I seek understanding and patience. Teach me and Your children to trust in Your timing, for it is flawless and just. Help me and Your children to embrace the seasons of waiting as periods of growth and deepening faith. May I and all of Your children find strength in Your promises and joy in the journey towards Your plans for all of us,  In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

I invite you all to consider the beauty and wisdom in God’s timing, encouraging us to wait with faith and hope. May it inspire reflection and a deeper trust in the One who holds time in His hands, especially this day before “His resurrection and victory over death” Amen.

DEAR GOD: May My Fasting Bring Me CLoser To You~

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2019 prayer_and_fasting-PSD – Heartcry Chapel

Fasting and prayer are spiritual disciplines that have been practiced for centuries across various religious traditions. In the Christian faith, these practices are often observed together as a means to deepen one’s relationship with God, seek guidance, and express penitence.

Fasting, the voluntary abstinence from food or drink, is a physical expression of one’s spiritual desire for communion with God. It is an act of humility, acknowledging one’s dependence on God for sustenance. By setting aside the temporary comfort of food, believers can focus more intently on their spiritual nourishment through prayer and meditation on the Scriptures.

Prayer is the communication with God, where one can praise, confess, give thanks, and petition. It is a time to align one’s will with God’s, to seek forgiveness, and to intercede for others. Prayer can be a source of strength and comfort, especially during times of fasting when physical weakness reminds us of our spiritual need.

The combination of fasting and prayer can lead to a heightened sense of spiritual awareness. It can help believers to detach from worldly distractions and draw closer to God, seeking His will and guidance. The Bible offers several examples of individuals and communities who fasted and prayed, often during critical moments or decisions, showing their reliance on God’s direction and strength.

Biblical Support:

  • Matthew 6:16-18 – Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing that it should not be done for show, but rather in a way that is not obvious to others.
  • Acts 13:2-3 – The early church fasted and prayed before sending off Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey.
  • James 5:13-16 – Believers are encouraged to pray in all circumstances, and the prayer of faith will heal the sick.

Fasting can also be giving up one’s indulgences for a while and concentrating on the LORD, fully and completely. It is the ability to focus in on the LORD with all of your given body, mind and soul…and presenting yourself wholly and humbly to the LORD. It is a representation of your faith and your love for the LORD, and consequently will be a vow of belief in Him and all He is.

When we turn in prayer to the One above and bring our meditations and heart to Him, He will surely hear from heaven, and will answer according to His time table, not ours!

“My Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, seeking Your presence through fasting and prayer. May my spirit be nourished by Your Word and my heart aligned with Your will. Grant me the strength to pursue You wholeheartedly, and may my discipline be a testament to my utmost desire for closeness with You. Bless me with wisdom and clarity, and let my actions reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ precious name I pray, Amen. 🙏”