Christ

DEAR GOD: I Do Not Fear God You’re Here~

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God’s Protective Love ⋆ Orchard Baptist Church

 

Isaiah 41:10 –

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.

 

Isaiah 41:10 is a beacon of hope and reassurance for Christians navigating the complexities of today’s world. This verse speaks directly to our hearts, offering comfort and strength in times of uncertainty and fear.

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee:” In a world filled with challenges and anxieties, this line reminds us that we are never alone. God’s presence is a constant source of comfort. Reflect on the times when you felt overwhelmed and remember that God was with you, guiding you through.

“Be not dismayed; for I am thy God:” This affirmation is a powerful reminder of our relationship with God. He is not just a distant figure but a personal God who knows us intimately. Consider how this personal relationship with God influences your daily life and decisions.

“I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee;” Life can often feel like a series of battles, but this promise assures us that we have divine strength to draw upon. Reflect on moments when you felt weak and how God’s strength helped you persevere.

“Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” This imagery of being upheld by God’s righteous hand is a profound source of security. It signifies that we are supported and protected by a just and loving God. Think about how this assurance impacts your faith and trust in God.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How does knowing that God is always with you change the way you face your fears?
  2. In what ways can you deepen your personal relationship with God?
  3. How have you experienced God’s strength in your life recently?
  4. What does it mean to you to be upheld by God’s righteousness?

Supportive Scriptures:

  • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
  • Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
  • Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unwavering presence in our lives. Thank You for the assurance that we need not fear, for You are with us. Strengthen us, Lord, in our moments of weakness and uphold us with Your righteous hand. Help us to trust in Your promises and to lean on Your strength. May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

A Blessing:

May you feel God’s loving Presence in every step you take. May His strength empower you, His peace fill your heart, and His love guide you. As you journey in faith, may you always remember that you are held in the righteous hand of God, who loves you beyond measure. Amen.

 

 

DEAR GOD: Joy Because Your Rewards And Love – Strengthens Me

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Joy! | Christian Wallpapers

 

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3

James 1:2-3 is a profound and challenging passage that calls us to a higher perspective on the trials we face in life. It invites us to see our struggles not as burdens but as opportunities for growth and transformation.

Personal Reflection: When I reflect on this verse, I am reminded of the times in my life when I faced significant challenges. Whether it was a personal loss, a health issue, or a difficult decision, these moments tested my faith and resilience. Initially, it was hard to find joy in these trials. The pain and uncertainty seemed overwhelming. However, as I leaned into my faith and sought God’s guidance, I began to see these trials as opportunities to deepen my trust in Him.

Heartfelt Commentary: James encourages us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials. This joy is not a superficial happiness but a deep, abiding sense of peace and trust in God’s sovereignty. It is the recognition that our trials are not random or meaningless but are part of God’s plan to refine and strengthen us.

The testing of our faith produces perseverance. Perseverance is the ability to endure and remain steadfast in our faith, even when circumstances are difficult. It is the spiritual muscle that is built through repeated trials and challenges. Just as physical muscles grow stronger through resistance, our faith grows stronger through the trials we face.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How do I typically respond to trials in my life? Do I see them as opportunities for growth or as obstacles to be avoided?
  2. In what ways has God used past trials to strengthen my faith and character?
  3. How can I cultivate a perspective of joy and trust in the midst of my current challenges?

Moral Takeaways:

  • Trials are opportunities for spiritual growth and transformation.
  • Joy in trials comes from trusting in God’s plan and purpose.
  • Perseverance is developed through the testing of our faith.

Supportive Scriptures:

  • Romans 5:3-4: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
  • 1 Peter 1:6-7: “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”

Closing Prayer: “Heavenly Father, we thank You for the trials that come our way, knowing that they are opportunities for growth and transformation. Help us to see these challenges through the lens of faith and to find joy in the midst of our struggles. Strengthen our perseverance and deepen our trust in Your perfect plan. May we emerge from our trials with a stronger, more resilient faith that brings glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12

DEAR GOD: Holy Spirit You Are Welcome Here

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“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

2 Corinthians 13:14 (ESV)

This verse, often referred to as the “Apostolic Benediction,” is a beautiful and profound blessing that encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith. It is a heartfelt prayer from the Apostle Paul, expressing his deep love and concern for the believers in Corinth. Let’s break down this verse and explore its rich meaning.

The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ

Grace is the unmerited favor and kindness of God, freely given to us through Jesus Christ. It is by His grace that we are saved, not by our works or efforts. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate demonstration of this grace. He took upon Himself the punishment for our sins, offering us forgiveness and eternal life.

Moral Takeaway: Embrace the grace of Jesus in your life. Recognize that it is not by your own strength or righteousness that you are saved, but by His grace alone. Let this grace transform your heart and lead you to live a life of gratitude and humility.

Reflective Question: How can you show gratitude for the grace of Jesus in your daily life?

Supporting Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

The Love of God

The love of God is the foundation of our faith. It is a love that is unconditional, sacrificial, and everlasting. God’s love for us is so great that He sent His only Son to die for our sins. This love is not based on our performance or worthiness but on His character and nature.

Moral Takeaway: Allow the love of God to fill your heart and overflow into your relationships with others. Love as He loves, with patience, kindness, and selflessness.

Reflective Question: In what ways can you demonstrate God’s love to those around you?

Supporting Scripture: Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

The Fellowship of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, Counselor, and Guide. Through the Holy Spirit, we experience the presence of God in our lives. The fellowship of the Holy Spirit unites us with other believers and empowers us to live out our faith.

Moral Takeaway: Cultivate a close relationship with the Holy Spirit. Seek His guidance in all areas of your life and be open to His leading.

Reflective Question: How can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your life?

Supporting Scripture: John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

Closing Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love You have lavished upon us, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. Help us to live in the fullness of Your grace, to love others as You have loved us, and to walk in step with the Holy Spirit. May Your presence be with us always, guiding and strengthening us in our journey of faith. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

May the grace, love, and fellowship of our Triune God be with you today and always. Blessings to you!

 

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DEAR GOD: Your Love Transforms & Offers Salvation~

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PPT - Wonderful Love of Jesus PowerPoint Presentation - ID:2447255

 

 LOVE of CHRIST

The verse from 1 John 4:16, “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” is a profound declaration of the nature of God and the relationship between God and believers.

This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian faith, emphasizing the centrality of love in the life of a believer.

Understanding God’s Love

The first part of the verse speaks to the experiential and intellectual acknowledgment of God’s love. This love is not just a concept but a reality that believers have experienced and come to trust.

The Bible is replete with examples of God’s love, from the creation of the world to the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse underscores the magnitude of God’s love, which is both sacrificial and redemptive.

God is Love

The declaration “God is love” is one of the most profound theological statements in the Bible. It means that love is not just an attribute of God but the very essence of His being. Everything God does is motivated by love.

This is further supported by 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which describes the characteristics of love: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” These attributes reflect the nature of God Himself.

Dwelling in Love

The latter part of the verse, “he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” speaks to the intimate relationship between God and the believer. To dwell in love means to live a life characterized by love. This is not merely an emotional feeling but a deliberate choice to act in love towards others.

Jesus emphasized this in John 13:34-35, where He said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”  This love is the hallmark of a true disciple of Christ.

Moral Takeaways

  1. Love as a Reflection of God: Our love for others is a reflection of God’s love in us. When we love others, we are manifesting God’s presence in our lives.
  2. Love as a Commandment: Loving others is not optional for believers; it is a commandment from Jesus Himself.
  3. Love as a Witness: Our love for others serves as a testimony to the world of our relationship with God.

Reflective Personal Questions

  1. How have I experienced God’s love in my life?
  2. In what ways can I better reflect God’s love to those around me?
  3. Are there areas in my life where I struggle to show love? How can I address these challenges?

Christianity Today

In today’s world, the message of love is more relevant than ever. With so much division, hatred, and strife, the call to love one another stands as a beacon of hope. Christians are called to be ambassadors of God’s love, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in a world that desperately needs it. The church must lead by example, demonstrating love in action through service, advocacy, and community building.

Personal Prayer

“LORD thank You for Your boundless love that You have lavished upon us. Help us to truly know and believe in this love, and to reflect it in our daily lives. Teach us to dwell in love, so that we may dwell in You and You in us. Give us the strength to love others as You have loved us, and to be a light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7

May this verse guide you throughout the day, reminding you of the profound love that God has for you and the call to share that love with others.

God Bless~

Love Like Jesus - Christ's Commission Fellowship

 

DEAR GOD: We Are Here To Glorify You In One Body~

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The Body of Christ – Gospel Light Bible Baptist Church, Auckland, New ...

 

 “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one member one of another.” Romans 12:4-5

This verse beautifully illustrates the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, emphasizing the importance of each member’s unique role and contribution.

Supportive Scriptures

  1. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14: “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many.”
  2. Ephesians 4:16: “From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.”

Moral Reflections

The metaphor of the body teaches us several moral lessons:

  1. Unity in Diversity: Just as a body has different parts with different functions, the church is composed of individuals with diverse gifts and roles. This diversity should be celebrated, not cause for division.
  2. Interdependence: Each member of the body relies on the others. No one part can function effectively in isolation. This interdependence fosters a sense of community and mutual support.
  3. Value of Every Member: Every part of the body, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is essential. Similarly, every person in the church has value and a purpose.

Spiritual Questions

  1. How can I better appreciate the unique gifts and roles of others in my community?
  2. In what ways can I contribute to the unity and growth of the body of Christ?
  3. Do I recognize and value my own role within the body, no matter how small it may seem?

Meditative Takeaways

  • Reflect on the ways you can support and uplift others in your community.
  • Consider how your unique gifts can be used to serve others and glorify God.
  • Meditate on the interconnectedness of the body of Christ and how each member’s well-being affects the whole.

Powerful Prayer

“LORD, we thank You for the beautiful diversity within the body of Christ. Help us to recognize and appreciate the unique gifts and roles You have given each of us. Teach us to work together in unity, supporting and uplifting one another. May we always remember that we are one body in Christ, and that each member is valuable and essential. Guide us to use our gifts for Your glory and the growth of Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thought for the Day

“Just as each part of the body is essential for its proper functioning, so too is each member of the body of Christ indispensable. Embrace your unique role(s) that the good LORD has gifted you with and celebrate the diversity within the community of believers all to the glory and witness to our LORD God Almighty.”

Blessings to all of you~

 

One Body in Christ | Romans 12:4-5 - Tricia Goyer | Christ quotes ...

DEAR GOD: Losing Myself & Finding You In All I Do~

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“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” –Matthew 16:25

This verse from Matthew 16:25 -encapsulates a powerful paradox—one that challenges our understanding of life, sacrifice, and purpose. Let’s delve into its layers of meaning and see if we can embrace the true purpose and overall reason for Christ’s Powerful Word!

1. The Paradox of Self-Preservation and Self-Sacrifice

At first glance, it seems counterintuitive: saving one’s life leads to loss, while losing it for Christ’s sake results in finding it. But this paradox invites us to consider deeper truths. It’s a way of following Christ. It is an inherent part of who we are as Christians, and what we are called to do in this lifetime, according to His will and purpose for us. “Losing our life” means to leave behind our former self – and to experience a “new spiritual birth” and to become one with Christ! In other words, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” as it so eloquently states in John 3:30.  Meaning “loss of our former selves” to decrease and the LORD increases in us.

Moral Reflections:

  • How do we balance self-preservation with selflessness?
  • Are there moments when we cling to safety at the expense of greater purpose?
  • Do we do things out of an obligatory reasoning?
  • Or do we do things with our heart while honoring the LORD always?

2. The Call to Radical Discipleship

Jesus often called His followers to radical commitment. He didn’t promise an easy path; instead, He invited them to lay down their lives for His cause. He tells us that we are to emulate Him in the best way we can. Given that we are mortals and nothing more – we will experience difficult paths and moments in our lives. When we do – we know that we have a “higher authority” and Divine LORD who guides us through each moments in our lives.

Ethical Consideration:

  • What does it mean to be a disciple today?
  • How can we live out this radical commitment in our daily choices?

3. Christianity Today: A Journey of Surrender

In our contemporary context, the paradox remains relevant. Christianity isn’t about mere survival; it’s about surrendering to God’s will. It’s about giving yourself fully and openly accepting Him as LORD and Savior over your life.

It is an acknowledgment of acquiescing to Him and His Word-and His voice- and His commandments- and His doctrine – every single day of our lives, here and now and to come – for all eternity!

Christian Reflection:

  • How can we embrace surrender without fear?
  • What areas of our lives need a deeper surrender to Christ?

4.   Meditative Takeaways

  •  When have you experienced the tension between self-preservation and self-sacrifice?
  •   What does losing your life for Christ’s sake look like in practical terms?
  •   Seek moments of surrender—whether in small acts of kindness or significant life choices. Trust that in losing, you’ll find true life, with Christ as the sole purpose of such life.

We as brothers and sisters are one, bound by faith and love. In this moment, we set aside our differences, our worries, and our burdens. We stand together, recognizing that we are part of a greater whole. The LORD unites us with a commonality which is to say, “His Spirit” and “His blood” which washed us clean. Let’s navigate the world together as Christ intended His followers to do. Let’s ask the LORD for His Presence in all things we endeavor to take on.

LORD we ask that You help us in our daily walks in life, especially the following:

  • May we be united in compassion, that we may see the pain of others as our own.
  • In forgiveness, that we may release grudges and embrace reconciliation. In hope, that we may find strength even in adversity.
  • In love, that we may extend grace to those around us.
  • May our hearts beat in rhythm with Yours, O God.
  • May our prayers rise like incense, weaving a tapestry of unity across time and space.
  • We pray for our world: for healing, for peace, for justice.
  • May Your light pierce the darkness, and may our actions reflect Your love.

Unity Prayer

 “Lord, help us navigate this paradox. May we willingly lose our lives for Your sake, knowing that true fulfillment lies in surrendering to Your purpose. That we lose our former selves and commit to the new Creature we became through your blood that washed us clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May these reflections deepen your faith and heartfelt journey…

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DEAR GOD: Thank You For The Word & Life Eternal~

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Eternal Life - Christian Genesis - Daily Devotional

The Purpose of Christ’s Life: A Story

In the Beginning

In the quietude of eternity past, before galaxies spun into existence and stars ignited, there was a divine whisper—a purpose. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit danced in harmonious love, their essence intertwined. Yet, in this cosmic symphony, a longing emerged—a longing to redeem, restore, and reconcile.

The Incarnation

And so it began. The Word, the Logos, clothed Himself in fragile flesh. The infinite squeezed into the finite, divinity veiled by humanity. Bethlehem’s stable cradled the hope of ages—the Savior, Jesus Christ. His purpose? Not merely to teach or perform miracles, but to bridge the chasm between God and humanity.

The Journey

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)

Moral Insight: Love compels sacrifice. Christ’s purpose was love incarnate—a love that would bleed, suffer, and die. His life echoed the Father’s heartbeat: redemption.

The Cross

Calvary’s hill bore witness to agony and grace. Nails pierced hands that flung stars into space. The Lamb of God, sinless and blameless, bore our guilt. Why? To fulfill prophecy, yes, but more profoundly—to rescue lost souls.

Scripture: “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.” (1 Peter 2:24)

Moral Insight: Sacrifice transforms. Christ’s purpose wasn’t just to die; it was to resurrect hope, to birth new life within us.

The Resurrection

The tomb yielded to life. Death’s chains shattered. Christ emerged victorious, scars etched with love’s story. His purpose? Not merely to conquer death, but to invite us into resurrection life.

Scripture: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” (John 11:25)

Moral Insight: Hope defies despair. Christ’s resurrection beckons us beyond the grave, promising eternal purpose.

The Commission

On a mountain’s crest, scarred hands extended, Christ entrusted His purpose to us. “Go,” He said, “make disciples.” Not mere converts, but followers who embody love, grace, and truth.

Scripture: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)

Moral Insight: Purpose is contagious. Christ’s commission echoes through generations, urging us to share His love.

The Unfolding Story

And so, the purpose of Christ’s life reverberates across time. It’s in the whispered prayers of a child, the compassion of a stranger, the forgiveness offered to enemies. It’s in the quiet moments when we choose love over bitterness, grace over judgment.

Dear brother and sister – you are part of this grand narrative. Your life, too, holds purpose—a purpose woven into the fabric of eternity. Embrace it. Live it. For in doing so, you mirror the One who walked dusty roads, bore a cross, and conquered death. May your days echo the heartbeat of Christ—the purpose that transforms, redeems, and invites us into abundant life!

“Dear LORD -In this sacred moment, we gather as one—a tapestry of souls woven by grace. Our voices blend, rising like incense, reaching Your throne. Bind us together, as One Body in Christ, O Lord, in purpose and love, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Scripture: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, KJV)

 

May your days echo the heartbeat of Christ—the purpose that transforms, redeems, and invites us into abundant life

DEAR GOD: I Love To Serve You Daily~

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God Is Love

God’s Righteous Anger & His Unfailing Love

Introduction

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

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

The Boundless Love of God

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

Scriptural Foundations

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

Reflective Thoughts

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

 The Nature of God’s Anger

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

Reflective Questions

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

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

Supportive Scripture

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

 Thoughts to Take Away About His Anger

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

Takeaway About His Love

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

Conclusion

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

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

A United Prayer

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

 

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

DEAR GOD: Your Enduring Presence Comforts Me~

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What Does Falling in Love With Jesus Actually Mean?

“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” – Matthew 28:20  


Enduring Presence 

In the closing verses of the Gospel of Matthew, we find the resurrected Christ imparting a final commission to His disciples. This passage, often referred to as the Great Commission, encapsulates the mission of the church and the enduring Presence of Christ.

The Command to Teach

Christ’s directive to “teach all nations” is a call to discipleship that extends beyond the mere transmission of knowledge. It is an invitation to a life-transforming journey that aligns one’s actions with the teachings of Jesus.

  • What does it mean for us to observe all that Christ has commanded
  • How does this shape our daily lives?

The Assurance of Presence

Perhaps the most comforting aspect of this verse is the promise that follows the command: “I am with you alway.” In a world fraught with uncertainty and change, the constancy of Christ’s presence offers an anchor for the soul. How do we experience this presence in our lives? In what ways does it sustain us through trials and tribulations?

The Scope of the Promise

The phrase “even unto the end of the world” speaks to the timeless nature of Christ’s commitment to His followers. It is a promise that transcends generations, cultures, and epochs. As we face the challenges of our own era, how does this assurance shape our perspective on the future?

A Moral Reflection

The moral imperative embedded in this scripture is clear: to live out the teachings of Christ and to share them with others. It calls us to a higher standard of conduct, one that reflects the love and grace of the One we follow. Are we living up to this calling? Are our lives a testament to the teachings we have received?

A Reflective Close

As we ponder the depth of Christ’s commission and the promise of His presence, let us take a moment to reflect on our role in this divine narrative. Are we active participants in the mission of teaching and sharing the Gospel? Do we find solace in the promise of Christ’s enduring presence?

Unity Prayer

“Dear LORD, we are humbled by Your great commission and the promise of Your eternal presence. Grant us the wisdom to teach Your ways and the courage to live them out. May we feel Your presence guiding us at every step, and may our lives be a reflection of Your love until the end of time, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Let’s embrace the teachings of Christ and find comfort in His everlasting presence all the days of our lives…

DEAR GOD: I Have No Fear – YOU Are Here!

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Wisdom of Life.: Looking for the perfect love....Fear, Faith, and the Love of God

Fear is a common human emotion that can be both protective and paralyzing at once. It arises from the anticipation of danger, whether real or imagined. Yet, in the spiritual realm, fear often stems from uncertainty and the feeling of being alone in the face of life’s trials. However, the love of God is presented in the Holy Bible through scriptures as our ultimate antidote to fear. It is through Christ and His love and His power we can assume our lives in peace, free from fear – or wrestle ourselves away from those emotions, through His love and His promises.

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.” – 1 John 4:18 (ESV)

  This scripture encapsulates the transformative power of His Holy and Divine love. It suggests that fear is linked to the expectation of judgment, but God’s love, being perfect and complete, dispels all traces of fear. It’s not just the absence of fear but the presence of something much greater love. It is His Presence in our life, and His Spirit that dwells within each of us as believers to overcome and to forge forward with resilience and confidence.

The Moral of Divine Love

The moral lesson here is that embracing the love of God encourages us to move beyond our fears, and through His strength and His Power we are set free from it. It teaches us that we are not alone, that we are loved unconditionally, and that there is a higher purpose to our lives, through God our Father Almighty. He has a plan and will for each of us while we are here on earth. This understanding will liberate us from the chains of fear, allowing us to live more fully and courageously, but only through Christ, and Christ alone can this be done, not by ourselves.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can we cultivate a deeper sense of God’s love in our daily lives?
  2. In what ways does fear affect our relationship with God and others?
  3. What steps can we take to replace fear with faith in God’s plan for us?

Prayer In Unity

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You to seek refuge from our fears. May Your perfect love fill our hearts and cast away the shadows of doubt and all of our anxiety. Guide us with Your wisdom, and let Your presence be our constant comfort, while You protect, and love us all unconditionally in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

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Final Pondering Thoughts

 As mortals -fear is a natural part of the human experience, but it doesn’t and shouldn’t overtake any of us. Through faith and the love of God, we always will overcome our fears and live with a sense of peace and purpose. Let us hold onto the promise that God’s love is powerful, and He alone can and will wipe out all fear, leading us into a life of freedom and joy, by His Love, Blood and His promise in the Word!