faith

DEAR GOD: You Are My Mainstay & Deliverer~

by // // No Comments

The Power of Prayer to Deliver You from Fear (Psalm 34:4) - Your Daily ...

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” – Psalm 34:4 (ESV)

This verse from Psalm 34 is a profound reminder of God’s faithfulness and His readiness to respond to our cries for help. It speaks to the intimate relationship we can have with the Lord, where our fears and anxieties are met with His comforting presence and deliverance.

Supporting Scripture

  • Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  1. God’s Readiness to Listen: The verse reassures us that God is always ready to listen to our prayers. When we seek Him earnestly, He responds. This is a testament to His loving nature and His desire for a personal relationship with us.
  2. Deliverance from Fear: Fear is a common human experience, but this verse promises that God can deliver us from all our fears. This deliverance might not always mean the removal of the situation causing fear, but it often means the provision of peace and strength to face it.
  3. Trust in God’s Timing: Sometimes, the answer to our prayers might not come immediately. Trusting in God’s timing is crucial, as His plans are always for our good, even when we cannot see it.

Reflective Questions

  • How often do I seek the Lord in my times of fear and anxiety?
  • Do I trust that God hears my prayers and will answer them in His perfect timing?
  • In what ways have I experienced God’s deliverance from my fears in the past?

Pertaining to Us Today

As Christians today, we face numerous fears and anxieties, whether they are related to health, relationships, or the future. Psalm 34:4 encourages us to turn to God with these fears, trusting that He will hear and deliver us. This verse is a call to deepen our prayer life and to rely on God’s promises.

In the Bible, we see many examples of individuals who sought the Lord and were delivered from their fears. David, who wrote this Psalm, faced many dangers and uncertainties, yet he consistently turned to God for help. His life is a testament to the power of seeking God and finding deliverance.

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness and Your promise to hear us when we call out to You. We bring before You our fears and anxieties, trusting that You will deliver us and grant us peace. Help us to seek You earnestly and to trust in Your perfect timing. Strengthen our faith and remind us of Your constant presence in our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Matthew 11:28 (ESV): “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Blessing

 ‘May the LORD’s Presence bring you comfort and offer solace and strength in all you endeavor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God Bless you~

You have always put a wall of protection around him…take away ...

 

 

DEAR LORD: I Feel Your Love & Your Presence~

by // // No Comments

The God of Peace! | Christian Wallpapers

 

Reflecting on Isaiah 55:6, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near,” we are reminded of the urgency and importance of seeking God in our daily lives.

This verse speaks to the heart of our relationship with the Lord, emphasizing that He is always accessible and ready to receive us. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, this call to seek God is more relevant than ever.

Essay and Commentary: 

In our modern lives, it is easy to become consumed by the busyness of work, family, and personal pursuits. Yet, Isaiah 55:6 calls us to pause and prioritize our relationship with God. Seeking the Lord is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of faith. It requires intentionality, humility, and a heart open to His guidance.

When we seek God, we acknowledge that He is the source of all wisdom, strength, and peace. Our existence is a testament to His Divine plan, and our daily walk should reflect our dependence on Him. This verse encourages us to turn to God in every circumstance, trusting that He is near and ready to help.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How often do I intentionally seek God’s presence in my daily routine?
  2. In what ways can I make more time for prayer and reflection on God’s word?
  3. How do I respond to life’s challenges? Do I seek God’s guidance first, or do I rely on my own understanding?

Moral Takeaways:

  • Dependence on God: Recognize that our strength and wisdom come from the Lord. In every decision and challenge, seek His guidance.
  • Consistency in Faith: Make seeking God a daily practice. Just as we nourish our bodies with food, we must nourish our spirits with God’s word and prayer.
  • Humility and Surrender: Approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging that we are nothing without Him. Surrender your worries and plans to His divine will.

Christian Scenarios of Today:

  1. In the Workplace: Imagine facing a difficult decision at work. Instead of relying solely on your expertise, take a moment to pray and seek God’s wisdom. Trust that He will guide you to the right choice.
  2. In Relationships: When conflicts arise in relationships, seek God’s peace and understanding. Pray for patience and the ability to see the situation through His eyes.
  3. In Health Challenges: Facing health issues can be overwhelming. Seek God’s comfort and healing, trusting that He is with you in every step of your journey.

Power Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You in gratitude and surrender. We seek You, LORD, knowing that You are near and that Your love for us is immeasurable. Guide us in our daily walk, that we may always seek Your Presence and live according to Your will. Help us to remember that our existence is because of You, and let our lives be a continuous praise to Your holy name. Strengthen us in times of trial, comfort us in our sorrows, and fill us with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” – Psalm 145:18 (ESV)

Blessing to the Reader

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace”(Numbers 6:24-26, ESV).

In every step you take, may you feel His Presence guiding you. In moments of uncertainty, may His wisdom fill your heart. May His love surround you, bringing comfort and strength. Trust in His unfailing promises, and may your faith be a beacon of hope and light to those around you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

PEACE FROM GOD!! PEACE WITH GOD!! | HARVEST CHURCH OF GOD

DEAR GOD: You Are My Healer~

by // // No Comments

THE HEALING POWER OF GOD’S GIFT OF RIGHTOUSNESS | Pure Grace Ministries

“LORD my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.”
Psalm 30:2:

Reflective Thoughts

Psalm 30:2 is a powerful testament to God’s ability to heal and restore. This verse encapsulates the essence of faith and the transformative power of divine intervention. When we call upon God in our times of distress, He listens and responds with healing. This healing can be physical, emotional, or spiritual, reflecting God’s comprehensive care for our well-being.

Moral Takeaways

  1. Faith in God’s Healing Power: This verse encourages us to have unwavering faith in God’s ability to heal us. It reminds us that no matter how dire our circumstances, God’s power is greater.
  2. The Importance of Prayer: Calling out to God in prayer is a crucial step in seeking His help. It signifies our dependence on Him and our trust in His divine intervention.
  3. Gratitude for Healing: When we experience God’s healing, it is essential to express our gratitude. This acknowledgment not only honors God but also strengthens our faith.

People’s Hope and Ability for God to Heal Them Instantly

The hope for instant healing is a common desire among believers. Psalm 30:2 reassures us that God is capable of providing immediate relief and restoration. This hope is not just wishful thinking but is grounded in the numerous instances of miraculous healings recorded in the Bible. Believers can find solace in knowing that God’s timing is perfect, and His healing, whether instant or gradual, is always for our ultimate good.

Reflective Questions

  1. When was the last time you called out to God for help? How did He respond?
  2. How has your faith been strengthened through experiences of God’s healing?
  3. In what ways can you express gratitude for the healing you have received?
  4. How can you support others who are seeking God’s healing in their lives?

Supportive Scriptures on Healing

  • Jeremiah 17:14: “Heal me, LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”
  • Isaiah 53:5: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”
  • James 5:15: “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of faith and gratitude. We thank You for Your unfailing love and the healing power that flows from Your throne. Lord, we call upon You today, just as the psalmist did, seeking Your divine intervention in our lives. Heal us, O Lord, in body, mind, and spirit. Restore us to wholeness and fill us with Your peace.

We pray for those who are suffering and in need of Your healing touch. May they feel Your presence and experience Your miraculous power. Unite us in faith, Lord, as we stand together, believing in Your promises. Strengthen our hearts and renew our spirits, so we may continue to serve You with joy and gratitude.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen”

God's Healing Power - Get Well Soon Card

DEAR GOD: So Safe In Your Shadow~

by // // No Comments

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.”

___________________________________________________________

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: I Trust You & Will Never Leave You

by // // No Comments

Trust in God in the Midst of Everything Going On | AirMaria.com

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” –Romans 8:35-37

Firmly holding on to the LORD in all we do or say is a sign of a “mature Christian.” It is the dedication and introspect of His Word and knowing Christ intimately that gives us our forbearance and strength to endure all things, and still cling to our faith.

  • Psalm 28:7 – The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him

When turbulence threatens to upset your way of life or an untimely incident appears on your doorway – that is when the roots of our Christian faith are put to the “test” as we express our believe and trust in God.

  • Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

Knowing He is there for us at all times is comforting and is one of the best things of accepting Jesus as our LORD and Savior. Knowing we are covered by His blood and that He ransomed us and redeemed us, and we are His, and He is ours!

No matter what circumstances you may be facing today, tomorrow or any day thereafter, have courage and be at peace – for the LORD God is with You. He will never leave you, or disappoint you. He is there for all the days of your life, and thereafter into the eternity.

  • Hebrews 13:8 – Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever

Trust Him. Love Him. Talk to Him. Read His Word. It will make all the difference in your life. His promises are real, and so too is His love for you!

  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”.

“Father, thank You for being with me all the days of my life, may I be pleasing in Your eyes as I do all things unto You and give You all the glory now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: My Faithful God-You Have My Heart~

by // // No Comments

Faithful God - YouTube

Revelation 22:12- “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.”

When a Christian is totally connected with the LORD many things begin to become transparent on their journey. There is a “lighter” feeling inwardly and a self-confidence begins to soar where it ordinarily wouldn’t have before their journey with God.

As we read His Word and begin to incorporate His commandments and His doctrine into our way of living, things have a way of “opening” up in a seemingly easy manner, as opposed to not being a believer.

Matthew 16:27 -For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and will then repay every man according to his deeds.

How do I know this? Where do I get such information?  From firsthand experience in life!  Having worked in the Medical/Social Services field mainly in the Nursing Home Industry as Director of these facilities, I have witnessed many bedside “deaths.”  And I can assure you this, as my personal in-depth analysis…those who believed in God and had an intimate and close relationship with Christ died a peaceful death, compared to those who did not know God.

Hebrews 10:35 -Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.

For one thing those who knew and followed God… they weren’t fearful, and they were at “peace” with knowing where they were going once, they left this earth. They were anxious to meet God and happy to know their days in pain and anguish were almost over. Even those who aged naturally without painful maladies or diseases, they were looking forward to “collecting their crown” along with the LORD’s promises and rewards in Heaven.

Matthew 5:12- Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

They also shared another very common characteristic; they had a calm demeanor/countenance that was very welcoming to all those they encountered. They never spoke harshly about others, held no malice towards any particular person or place, and offered words of love about God and Jesus’ Gospel. Plus, they had a “real inner light” that glowed when you spoke to each of these individuals. You know why that is? Because God had their heart in His hands…they gave it willingly…and they loved Him openly.

Isaiah 40:10 -Behold, the Lord God will come with might, With His arm ruling for Him. Behold, His reward is with Him And His recompense before Him.

It all comes down to commitment and love for God. When we apply the character of Christ into what we do, where we go, who we speak with, and our personal choices. The choices we make in this lifetime follow us into the next!  It’s that simple—really.

Does your light shine when you meet others? Do you have a peaceful demeanor/countenance? Do you believe in the LORD and His Word, promises and His love? I tell you this my brothers and sisters, it makes all the difference in this world, and it will make ALL the difference in the NEXT world.

Luke 6:23 -Be glad in that day and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. For in the same way their fathers used to treat the prophets.

“Father God, may I choose You in all I do, say and go, may I be ever faithful to You night and day, all the days of my life, here on earth and into the eternity, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Time After Time –You Are You~

by // // No Comments

I heard an atheist speaking during a live show conference alongside a person of deep faith. The startling contrast in their views, modes of behavior and overall ideology were the veritable antithesis of each other.

Each one spoke about their perspective and most intimate belief systems, and how each one grappled with life, circumstances, and adversity in the highest form culminating into a tragic scenario, and how each one coped in the aftermath. The one of faith eased through the difficulty time, while the atheist had trouble and spiraled into a deep depression.

While I was enthralled with the side-by-side analysis of the minds of both individuals, I found myself way after the show concluded thinking about the “one who was an atheist.”  And I tried to understand how someone can have or hold that belief when there is so many things that can cancel out that “benign” wave pattern or illogical misapprehension.

Now, hang on. I am for “free thinking” and “choice” and that is what this country represents. Freedom!  Freedom to think what they want. Believe what they want. And ascribe to what they want.  And now that being said, I started to think, for me and countless others with great faith, it is incomprehensible to ever deny God or His commandments and His Omnipotent power and control over the entire Universe.

Time after time, He’s there. He’s there is the birth of a newborn. He’s there in the midst of a storm. He’s there in the calm of morning. He’s there in mourning. He’s there in marriage. He’s there in love. He’s there, time after time after time.

  • He’s there in the Word.
  • He is the Word.
  • He’s there in His love.
  • He’s there and here and everywhere.
  • Time after time after time.

The energy they spend on trying to convince others there is no God, seems to me to be a “religion” of sorts. Their own religion of non-belief. But who made them? Oh, the big bang theory?  So, if that were the case, that kind of reproducing would still be happening today each time a person is born. You don’t ‘evolve’ into something else. Nope. It would be a consistent process of birth renewal each time IF that were true.

Nope, instead it is still the same process for bringing a child into the world. A woman conceives when her egg is fertilized by male sperm. After nine months in the woman’s womb, or sooner an infant is born. And so it goes, and so it goes. Until the end of time, such process is reproduced, the same way over and over again. And in that process, He is there, time after time after time.

I know I’ve been redundant here in this post, but I’m passionate about my God and His amazing ways. And again, although every one has a right to their own opinion or belief, or “disbelief” –there are those who still choose God over all else. And find it intensely satisfying and comforting to know that “time after time” He is there!  Amen.

“Father, thank You for Your Presence in my life, time after time, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: May I Be Childlike In My Faith~

by // // No Comments

 

Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Matthew 18:2-5 (NLT)

 

Jesus is instructing His disciples when He tells them they need to “transform into childlike qualities” or it’d be impossible to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Childlike qualities include humility and a sense of compassion and kindness and openness that are characteristics of a little child. In other words, entering into the Kingdom of the LORD in Heaven won’t be accomplished by defeating all opponents’ and gaining boastful achievements that express a selfish desire to get ahead in a ruthless fashion, or sense.

Instead, we must be humble and walk in compliance and in alignment with His Word and commandments. We must have the “mind” of Christ, and have a heart filled with love of God in all things we endeavor to do in our lives.

Those who enter must be humble in recognizing like little children, we are powerless over the circumstances in our lives. That like little children who are dependent on their parents, we are to understand we are “completely dependent on God” to provide for us and protect us from harm.

Only through this kind of mind-set and actions can we attain the grace from God. And by accepting His Son and following Him in spirit, and belief.

Have you “embraced the inner child” from within to accomplish and attain the goal of His Kingdom?

Are you walking in humility and trust?

Jesus’ words are infallible and His promises are real.

“Father God, thank You for instructing us in preparation for Your Kingdom, may I walk in complete humility and trust, may I hold true to the characteristics of children, and may I embrace You daily, today and always, and know that Your Spirit still guides me every day, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: No Need to Fear You Are Near~

by // // No Comments

Do Not Be Afraid - Kristen WelchJeremiah 1:8–Be not afraid of their faces for I am with thee to deliver thee; saith the LORD.

 

 

The saying 'Be afraid, be very afraid' - meaning and origin.Fear? With God nearby?  How is that even possible?

Well, it does happen because it is a human physiological response. It’s a part of being mortal.  Our spirits are encased by this thing we call “flesh” and therefore subject to those emotions.

What about those of us who are Christians and feeling a sense of guilt when such feelings arise? Are we not Christians? Are we not believers in the LORD and His Presence?

NO!  It doesn’t mean that at all. Simply put, God made us and crafted us with His brilliance, and we are fine pieces of “machinery” so to speak.  God knew what He was doing when giving us life.

From eyelashes that keep our eyes safe, a heart that beats and supplies blood to our bodies, with blood cells that are complex each one taking care of issues, like our immune system, liver to cleanse toxins, and vital organs carrying oxygen throughout our bodies, a woman having a womb carrying a baby until birth, etc., etc., etc.

So too did He supply us with emotions. Love, anger, and fear are emotions that come and go. They wade through us much like the tides at the shoreline. Sometimes the tide is high, sometimes it’s low. So too our emotions.

Fear has its place. It can stop us from catastrophic type behavior. Saving us from situations that would otherwise be life threatening.  It can hold us in place to a point where we fall to our knees and look to God for His help.  And on our knees is where we put our best emotions into play surrendering to Him in prayer.

So NO, you are not sinning if you experience fear!  We need to pray harder and look to God and His wisdom at this time in particular. Where we have to trust in Him fully and know that He will help us in good times and bad.

The promises of God are our reassurance and undoubtedly brings comfort to our heart and soul. In Jeremiah chapter one, God is speaking to Jeremiah and reminding him of how He is with him. No matter what.  He instructs Jeremiah, guides him, and continuously encourages him not to fear.

Guess what? His words and promises have never expired. In fact, He extends His grace and love to all of us this very day and very moment! So, all of those words of comfort and encouragement are for us as well.

Amazing!

Thank you, LORD!

 

“Father, thank You for Your provisions, protection, love and grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

Jeremiah 1:19

“And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee.”