Prayer

DEAR GOD: I Embrace Your Multifaceted Grace~

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Grace has no But

 

The LORD’s multifaceted personality and boundless grace are woven throughout the scriptures, revealing His deep love, justice, mercy, and wisdom. His personality is a rich tapestry, reflecting His unwavering commitment to righteousness, His compassion for the brokenhearted, and His desire for a relationship with His creation.

Scriptures:

  • Psalm 145:8-9: “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”
  • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
  • Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Reflective Questions:

  • How can I experience and share the LORD’s grace in my daily interactions?
  • In what ways can I seek and reflect God’s wisdom in my decisions?
  • How does trusting in the LORD’s strength change my approach to life’s challenges?

Moral Thoughts: The multifaceted nature of God calls us to live a life of integrity and compassion. As we experience His grace, we are encouraged to extend that grace to others. Reflecting on His justice and mercy, we are reminded to seek fairness and kindness in all our actions. Our purpose as Christians is to walk in His light, to be examples of His love, and to carry His message of hope to the world.

Christian Purpose and Life: Our purpose as followers of Christ is to grow in our relationship with God and to serve others with the love and grace we have received. We are called to be salt and light in the world, to make a difference by living out our faith authentically. This involves not only personal spiritual growth but also actively working towards justice, compassion, and peace in our communities.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your multifaceted personality and boundless grace. We thank You for Your unwavering love, Your profound wisdom, and Your compassionate heart. Help us to grow in our understanding of You and to reflect Your character in all that we do. Guide us to seek Your wisdom, to extend Your grace, and to walk in Your truth. Strengthen us to face life’s challenges with courage and faith, knowing that You are always with us. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness and glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing: May the LORD’s grace abound in your life, His wisdom guide your steps, and His love surround you always. May you find strength in His presence and joy in His promises. Go forth with the peace and assurance that comes from knowing you are deeply loved and cherished by your Heavenly Father.

Scripture to Ponder: 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

God Bless you all as you reflect on these thoughts, and may they enrich your walk with the LORD today and always – Amen!

 

7 Beautiful Examples of God's Grace in the Old Testament

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Keep Negative Thoughts From Our Mind~

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Take Up Your Cross – 3 Meditations in 2024 | Walk in the spirit, Jesus pictures, Jesus artwork

A friend and I were talking recently, and she was being plagued by negative thoughts and ” what IF- kind of scenarios. “What if I have an emergency in the middle of the night and there is a snowstorm outside and the roads are impassable? What if my dog has an emergency of some kind – the only 24 hours vet clinic is an hour away – what will happen to my dog?  What if my husband dies before me – how can I live all alone I’ve never been alone!”   

Maintaining our thoughts with the light of Christ is a daily pursuit, a conscious and deliberate practice. The Bible teaches us that our minds are battlegrounds, but through Christ, we have the power to overcome negative thoughts and fears of the future. Obviously, the enemy wants to taunt us and besiege our minds with fear and doubts and truly wants to paralyze us with negative dark thoughts.

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2, KJV)

How do we keep negative thoughts at bay? We must truly and fully make a daily and continuous practice of trust and faith in God – and fully immerse yourself in the Word of God.

As it is written, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105, KJV) When we fill our minds and hearts with the scriptures, we crowd out the darkness with His Divine light. Daily meditation on His Word helps align our thoughts with His truth.

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5, KJV) Through purposeful behavior, we can cultivate a mindset that mirrors the mind of Christ. This involves casting our worries upon Him and embracing His peace.

“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, KJV) Remember, Christ has already won the battle over sin and death, and through Him, we can triumph over our fears and anxieties.

In moments of doubt, turn to prayer and scripture. Let the rivers of God’s Word wash away the dark clouds of doubt, replacing them with the warm, inviting sunlight of His promises. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27, KJV)

Visualize your negative thoughts as leaves carried away by a gentle stream. As they drift downstream, they are replaced by the oceans of Christ’s light and love, renewing and refreshing your spirit. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8, KJV)

Make it part of your LIFE to be fully submerged in His Word, to soak in His love, and to let His light guide your thoughts and actions. Reflect on His unwavering love and faithfulness and let that be your anchor in turbulent times.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.” (Psalm 23:1-3, KJV)

In this tribute to our Heavenly Father, let us remember that He is always with us, guiding us with His loving hand. His Word is the compass that keeps us on the path of righteousness, and His light dispels the shadows that seek to cloud our minds. “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1, KJV)

May your heart be ever filled with His peace, and your mind ever renewed by His promises. Through Christ, we can overcome every negative thought and stand firm in the assurance of His eternal love.

“LORD -Thank You for the light You pour into our lives, dispelling the darkness and filling our hearts with hope and peace. As we immerse ourselves in Your Word, help us to renew our minds and cast away every negative thought that seeks to burden us. Guide us, O Lord, with Your steadfast hand, and let us be ever mindful of Your promises. Teach us to trust in You fully, knowing that You hold our future in Your hands. May Your love and light flow through us, cleansing our minds and hearts, and renewing our spirits each day. We surrender our worries and anxieties to You, and we embrace the peace that surpasses all understanding. Fill us with the joy of Your presence, and may we walk confidently in the path You have set before us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”

God Bless You All~

Daily Devotion: Walk in the Spirit – The Herald

DEAR GOD: A Life of Holy Service: Living According to Your Will”?

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Gods Will

Living a life of service to God is a profound and enriching journey that spans both the ancient and modern days. By grounding our actions in scripture, we can find purpose and direction in our pursuit to fulfill God’s will.

Biblical References:

  1. Deuteronomy 10:12-13 (Old Testament): “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?”
    • This passage outlines the essence of living a life dedicated to God: fear, love, obedience, and wholehearted service.
  2. John 15:5 (New Testament): “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
    • Jesus emphasizes the importance of remaining connected to Him, as our source of strength and purpose.
  3. Galatians 5:13 (New Testament): “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
    • Paul encourages us to use our freedom to serve others with humility and love.
  4. James 1:27 (New Testament): “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
    • True service to God involves caring for those in need and maintaining moral purity.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How can I prioritize God’s will in my daily decisions and actions?
  2. In what ways can I serve my community and those in need?
  3. What areas of my life need more alignment with God’s teachings?
  4. How can I cultivate a deeper connection with God through prayer and worship?

Moral Thoughts:

  • Serving God requires a heart of humility, love, and obedience.
  • Our actions should reflect God’s love and compassion to those around us.
  • We are called to be stewards of God’s grace, using our talents and resources to further His kingdom.
  • Living a life of service means continually seeking God’s guidance and striving to grow in faith.

 “LORD-Thank You for the privilege of serving You. Help us to live lives that reflect Your love and grace. Guide our hearts and minds to align with Your will in all that we do. May our actions be a testament to Your goodness, and may we bring hope and light to those around us. Strengthen our faith and fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may serve You faithfully and joyfully. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: May We Embrace Your Grace In This Current World~

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Christian Clipart Grace | Free Images at Clker.com - vector clip art ...

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” -Titus 2:11-12

The passage from Titus 2:11-12 speaks profoundly to the nature of God’s grace and the transformative power it holds for all humanity. This scripture offers a rich tapestry of spiritual truths, guiding us towards a life of righteousness and godliness in a world often beset by ungodliness and worldly desires. In exploring this passage, we can uncover the depths of its meaning and the practical implications for our daily lives.

The Manifestation of Grace

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.” This opening statement is a declaration of the universality and accessibility of God’s grace. The term “grace” refers to the unmerited favor of God, a gift that is freely given and not earned by human effort. This grace brings salvation, offering redemption and eternal life to all who receive it. The appearance of this grace is most notably embodied in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate manifestation of God’s love and mercy.

Teaching and Transformation

The passage continues, “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” Here, the grace of God is not merely a passive gift but an active instructor. It teaches us to renounce ungodliness—those attitudes, behaviors, and practices that are contrary to the nature and will of God. This includes worldly lusts, which are the desires and temptations that pull us away from a holy life.

Living “soberly” implies a life of self-control and moderation, where one’s actions and decisions are guided by wisdom and discernment. “Righteously” denotes living in a manner that is just and in accordance with God’s standards, reflecting His character in our interactions with others. To live “godly” means to live in a way that is devoted to God, where our lives are a reflection of His holiness and love.

The Challenge of the Present World

The call to live soberly, righteously, and godly is set against the backdrop of “this present world.” This phrase acknowledges the reality that we live in a world where ungodliness and worldly lusts are prevalent. The present world is marked by moral relativism, materialism, and a pursuit of self-gratification. In such an environment, the challenge for believers is to remain steadfast in their commitment to the teachings of God’s grace.

Practical Applications

  1. Personal Integrity: In our personal lives, denying ungodliness may mean rejecting dishonest practices, impure thoughts, or harmful habits. Instead, we strive to cultivate virtues like honesty, purity, and self-discipline. This integrity is a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace in our lives.
  2. Relationships: In our relationships, living righteously calls us to treat others with fairness, respect, and love. It involves being a peacemaker, seeking reconciliation, and extending grace and forgiveness to others as we have received from God.
  3. Community and Society: On a broader scale, living godly involves engaging with our communities and society in ways that reflect God’s love and justice. This might include advocating for the marginalized, volunteering our time and resources, or participating in efforts that promote social justice and moral integrity.

The Role of Faith and Prayer

Living out the teachings of Titus 2:11-12 requires a deep reliance on faith and a consistent prayer life. Faith anchors us in the truth of God’s grace and empowers us to resist the pull of ungodliness. Prayer is our means of maintaining a close relationship with God, seeking His guidance, strength, and wisdom in our daily lives.

The Hope of Future Glory

While the passage focuses on living righteously in the present world, it is also infused with the hope of future glory. The grace that brings salvation also promises eternal life with God. This hope encourages us to persevere, knowing that our efforts to live soberly, righteously, and godly are not in vain but are preparing us for an eternal inheritance.

Conclusion

Titus 2:11-12 is a powerful reminder of the comprehensive nature of God’s grace. It not only brings salvation but also instructs us in living lives that reflect God’s character in a world that often opposes it. By embracing the teachings of this passage, we can navigate the challenges of the present world with integrity, love, and a steadfast hope in the promises of God.

 

“O Lord, our Heavenly Father, We thank Thee for Thy grace that bringeth salvation to all men. Teach us, O Lord, to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world. Grant us the strength and wisdom to walk in Thy ways, and let our lives be a reflection of Thy holiness and love. May we always seek Thy guidance and find comfort in Thy promises. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Protecting & Prospering Me~

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GOD'S PROTECTION | Scripture quotes, Bible quotes, Bible verses

“No Weapon Formed Against You Shall Prosper”: A Reflection

Isaiah 54:17 (KJV): “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.”

This powerful promise from the book of Isaiah assures us of God’s protection and sovereignty over our lives. It emphasizes that while adversities and challenges may arise, they will not prevail against those who trust in the Lord.

Commentary and Insights

The verse from Isaiah reflects God’s covenant with His people, assuring them that no matter the adversities they face, His protection and justice will prevail. Weapons may be formed and tongues may rise in judgment, but they will not succeed in their intent to harm. This promise is a source of comfort and strength for believers, reminding us that our ultimate security is found in God.

Supportive Scriptures

Psalm 91:4-“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”

Romans 8:31-“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”

2 Thessalonians 3:3-“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.”

These scriptures reinforce the theme of divine protection and the assurance that God’s faithfulness will guard and sustain us through all challenges.

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Recognizing that God is in control of all circumstances helps us to trust in His protection and provision, even when we face difficulties.
  2. Faith Over Fear: Embracing faith over fear allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing that God’s promises are true and steadfast.
  3. Divine Justice: Understanding that God will condemn every tongue that rises against us helps us to leave judgment and vindication in His hands, freeing us from the need for personal retaliation.
  4. Strength in Adversity: Believing that no weapon formed against us shall prosper gives us the strength to endure and overcome any adversity.

Analysis of Christianity: Yesterday and Today

Yesterday’s Faith In the early days of Christianity, believers faced severe persecution, yet their faith in God’s protection remained unwavering. They held fast to scriptures like Isaiah 54:17, finding courage and strength to stand firm in their convictions despite external threats.

Today’s Faith Today, Christians still face various forms of opposition—be it societal, cultural, or personal challenges. While the nature of the adversities may have changed, the need for unwavering faith and trust in God’s protection remains the same. Modern believers are called to apply the timeless truths of scripture to navigate the complexities of contemporary life.

Living a Life of Trust

To truly embrace the promise of Isaiah 54:17, Christians must cultivate a lifestyle of trust in the Lord. This involves:

  • Daily Surrender: Consistently surrendering our fears and anxieties to God, trusting in His plan and purpose for our lives.
  • Active Faith: Living out our faith through actions, knowing that God’s protection is with us in every step we take.
  • Community Support: Drawing strength from fellowship with other believers who can encourage and support us in our walk with God.
  • Prayer and Reflection: Regularly engaging in prayer and reflection on God’s promises, grounding ourselves in His Word.

Purposeful Prayer

“LORD-We thank You for Your unwavering promise that no weapon formed against us shall prosper. We find comfort and strength in knowing that Your protection surrounds us and that Your justice will prevail. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty and to walk in faith, not fear. Guide us to live lives that reflect Your love and power, trusting in Your provision and protection through every challenge we face. Strengthen our hearts and minds and help us to encourage and support one another as a community of believers. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 121:7-8 (KJV): “The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.”

Blessing for the Readers

“May the Lord bless you with His divine protection and peace. May you find strength in His promises and courage to face each day with faith. Trust in His unfailing love and know that He is with you always, guiding and protecting you through all of life’s challenges.”

God Bless You All~

 

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. 🙏”

DEAR GOD: Shine Your Light~

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Isaiah 60:1 KJV- Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.

 

LORD, shine Your light from high above in the world that seems to be under darkness as of late. Help those in anguish, and those in ill health, help those trapped in situations that seem hopeless, help those who are experiencing loss of a loved one, or those who are trapped in a bad marriage, or those who are tempted to ignore God’s Word and commandments, help those who haven’t yet come to You, or those who have turned their backs on You, help these individuals, help those who are addicted by something in their lives that are keeping them from experiencing life through You and Your Word, help those who go against Your Word, and help the World that is in such disarray my LORD, only YOU can change things with a wave of Your hand, or by Your Word, all those reading this right now, may their prayers be heard, and if it is Your will, may it be done, in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

I felt it in my heart, God laid it upon me to write that prayer, someone out there is in need of prayers this very moment, so turn to the One who can help You, never give up, or lose faith, cause God’s timing and Will is perfect. Hang in there, hold on, and know that He hears You, and is there with You.

God is like oxygen. You can’t see it, but we NEED IT TO BREATHE. So, breathe!  Take in the LORD, follow Him and His Word, and know that He will never leave or forsake You.

Accept Him as LORD and Savior. Jesus said, “no one goes to the Father, but through Me”(John 14:6) — He also says, “Whatever you ask in my name to the Father, it shall be done” (John 14:13) Those two verses meditate upon them, realize the depth of what that means, and accept Him as LORD.

  • Jesus is LORD, and LORD above all.
  • Praise His name, Amen!

“Father, may I do all I can to please You, may I always walk in obedience to You, may I turn from all temptations, and may I share You Word and be Your servant all the days of my life, and I pray for all those reading this message, I pray for all issues to be resolved in their lives, and that they are obedient to You and Your Son, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

John 8:12 KJV- Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

 

Ephesians 5:8- KJV For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

 

John 3:16 KJV -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.