Commandments

DEAR GOD: Great Is Thy Faithfulness~

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24: Experiencing God’s Faithfulness - Linda Breitman

2 Thessalonians 3:3: “But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.”

This verse reminds us that God is always faithful to his people, even when they face trials and temptations. He will strengthen them and protect them from the enemy’s schemes. When we realize the scope and depth of His love for us -His children, we can literally become overwhelmed by how spectacular He really is.

He brings us through all things and guides us in every scenario of our lives. When we follow Him and read His Word, we see a consistency of true love and a platitude of peace and wisdom will cover us from above.

There isn’t anything that we are going through that hasn’t happened in some way or form to another, and He will never give us more than we can handle, and always—I mean ALWAYS bring us through it and show us a way out. That is our Amazing faithful God!

Lamentations 3:22-23: “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

This verse expresses the hope and gratitude of the prophet Jeremiah, who witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. He acknowledges that God’s love and mercy are constant and renewed every day, and that his faithfulness is great even in the midst of suffering. His mercy and tenderness towards us is everlasting and He doesn’t push us away. We on the other hand might push Him away, but He will never go far. He is always right close by waiting for us to “call out to Him” trusting Him in all we do and say. He is never far away. He is close to us and holds us up during trials, and our tears, and celebrates with us during good times. That is our amazing and faithful God!

With each day in front of us – we should acknowledge Him in all we do, give thanks in everything we do, and love Him with each breath we take. He is the reason we are still breathing this very moment. He is the reason for our blessings. He is the reason for the big and small moments in life. And most important, His promises and grace are forever, and our rewards will be plentiful in the eternity when we are called home.  If, we align with His Word, His will, His commandments, and His timing.

Have you read His Word today? Have you acknowledged Him, and just pushed away from the world to say, “Thank You Father, for all You are, and all You continue to be, I adore You, need You, want to please You, surrender to Your will and purpose for my life, I love You immensely, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

If you take the time to pray that to Him and really mean it…you will make His day.

Amen and God Bless~

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are My Father of Light & Love~

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Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning –
James 1:17

He never changes, there is no shadow or room for obscurity. Our Father in Heaven is openly “visible” in all areas of our lives, if we take the time to look and seek.  He is not a vapor or a mere illusion, He is real and perfect in every way.  He is the Father of Light.

James 1:18 -Of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.

We are His and follow Him and he gives us the knowledge of wisdom and repentance and being a first fruit showing others the way.  The Word and His truth enlightens us, and the Holy Spirit provides the guidance and instruction in the way we ought to live and be an example to others along the way.

James – 1:19 – Therefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;

If you can follow those three words of advice from James 1:19 – we will be able to provide for others while following the doctrine and tenets of how we can be productive according to the LORD’s will and purpose for our lives. Don’t be double minded, be patient, and understanding. In all we do, do for the LORD.

James 1:20 – For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

There is no connection whatsoever. If you are angry and angry at the world or yourself, or angry all the time…then that is not serving God. We cannot have that type of temperament or attitude and expect God to bless us, nor will we be able to live a fulfilling life here on earth. Or have the LORD be pleased with us. But most especially, cannot do that if we want to walk the path of righteousness and follow God.

Accept the Father of Light and His Gifts He lays upon us from above and adhere to all He wants us to be. When we do this, we can be blessed and live the life worth living.

Walk in the Light and shine, shine, shine…

“Father, thank You for Your love, gifts and will for my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: You Say It All & You Are My All~

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Jeremiah 33:6 (NLT)-

Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security.

In the midst of darkness, death, and despair, the love of God is like a guiding light, leading His people to safety. This is the spirit and message of Jeremiah 33:6. The prophet received a vision from God foretelling the death, destruction, and devastation that would fall on the city.

It is important to remember that God’s love and mercy can guide us through even the most difficult times. God is with us, even when we have difficulty “hearing” at times. It’s a matter of seeking Him and taking the time to meditate and think, “what would You have me do LORD? – What is it I am supposed to be doing at this time? – How can I apply Your Word to my situation at this very moment in time?”  When we delve into His Word, and ask for guidance and His wisdom, He will respond in kind.

It may not be instantaneous, but He will provide the answers and direction according to His timetable, not ours. So, patience is an important component and aspect to finding answers.

Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

He will never disappoint, and He is why we live and breathe. He is giving us a commandment to “be strong and of good courage” in Deuteronomy 31:6, and that should be good enough for us, HIS WORD, and His promise. We are never alone!

Psalms 23:4 – Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

No matter the circumstances we never walk alone. Perhaps the most memorable example was in the book of Daniel concerning the three Hebrew children that were thrown into the furnace (Daniel 3:16-28). The LORD walked with them and protected them, when they exited the fires, not even one hair on them was singed, and their clothing was intact! Amen!

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.

God continuously throughout His Holy Bible tells us and commands us not to fear, that He is with us, and He will strengthen us, and will uphold us.  How can we possibly do otherwise? If our God is telling us to be courageous, have no fear and we need to realize that He is always nearby.

Zephaniah 3:17 – The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

God’s love for us is unapparelled and surpasses anything and anyone in the Universe (that He Created) and knowing that He loves us that much (John 3:16) is the best gift of all. And along with that gift should be a strong reassurance and comfort for His children.

His Word is truth.
His Love is real.
His ways are perfect.

When you are in need of company, He is there. When you are in need of a shoulder to lean on, He is there. When you are in need of comfort, He is there. When you are in need of guidance, He is there. When you are in need of help, He is there. When you are in need of love, He is there…

Do you have Him in Your life? Do you seek Him in all you do? If not, what are you waiting for?

A life with our LORD and Savior is the only life worth living!

“Father, thank You for Your promises, love, and guidance and all You do and say, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: I AM INFUSED BY YOUR SPIRIT~

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The Bible offers many lessons on how to make a difference in life. We are called to resist conformity to worldly patterns and renew our minds according to God’s Word. By seeking His guidance and transforming our way of thinking, we can then completely discern God’s good, acceptable, and perfect will for each of us.

Standing with and by God’s Word and will for our lives enables us to make choices and take actions that align with His purpose, and inherently will make a positive impact on others, as well as our lives. But only when it is according to HIS will, not ours.

You see when we rely on God and trust Him fully in all we do and acknowledge Him— He will direct our paths. And when we realize we need Him and aren’t using our “own wisdom” or devices, and love Him fully and keep from evil, it will be health for us inside and out (Proverbs 3:5-8).

The Bible teaches us that to make a difference, we should read the Bible, connect with God, serve others selflessly, and renew our minds according to God’s Word. Each session we spend with God on an intimate basis, that is getting to know Him, understand His word and how to apply it to our lives, we gain introspection into how we should live. We gain access into living life successfully while adhering to His commandments.

The Bible is a perfect testimony of who God is and what He’s like. After all, it’s inspired by God and it’s profitable for teaching, admonishing, rebuking, training us to be disciplined and walk in righteousness.

Plus, through His Word, God shows us and gives us everything in His book required of us to lead a life of goodness and demonstrate love towards each other.

Each of us are unique, yet all have the impact to make a difference in the world. The Holy Spirit will guide us and teach us as we go along in this world. The Spirit isn’t stagnant.  Instead, the Spirit will continuously move and flow effortlessly when we are aware, open and engaged with the Word on a daily basis. He is given to us as a “gift” when we accept the LORD readily. We are given that wonderful and glorious gift from the Father, and He is infused within us always.

 Luke 24:49 (NLT) – “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.”

“Father, may I always be connected to You on every level in my life, may I consult with You before I go about my tasks in early morning, may I seek Your face in all I do, and may I please You in all of my ways, all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: What Should I Do At This Stage In My Life?~

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I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.

Isaiah 464 (NLT)

 

Some of us as we age do what is called a “life review” in our mind. That’s a time log of events and things that transpired in your lifetime, both good and bad, and all the in between times. Some people are filled with many regrets, some have little regrets. And still others, who have “no regrets whatsoever.” Those are the fortunate ones.

I thought about the steps in my life, and God was ultimately behind them all. Of course, there were a few in my youth that dictated my “teenage” years thinking I had all the answers. But I wasn’t the average rebellious type of individual in the teenage years, I was a timid and quiet type, and had the blessings of great godly parents, who taught me right from wrong. And God was always in the center of our lives. I never really went against authority, or the law.  Nonetheless, given youth and lack of maturity, there were decisions that were made along the way, that was less than favorable in terms of outcome. But through each experience, I gained wisdom.

Proverbs 2:6  (NLT)-For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.  

My 4o’s were the most productive in terms of career, and accomplishments in terms of doing “God’s work” and what He called me to do. That of course, as many of you who follow me know, it was my career in nursing home industry. I loved every moment of it. That is because God chose that profession for me. He ordained me to do so, and I followed. It was a spectacular time, and it fulfilled my purpose in life as God’s will and plans, thus the jubilation I felt, because it was God who did the planning. I merely followed course. When we do God’s will and follow our purpose, we invariably will be happy, because it was chosen by God.

Psalm 37:23 (NLT)-The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.

Now in my senior years I wonder what’s next? I wonder when and how I will be used for His purpose. So let’s see, I’m an author and writer that stays within the parameters of my beliefs. I don’t wander outside the lines of what God expects to be in my writing. And most important, I mainly use it to glorify my LORD and to share the Word with my brothers and sisters throughout the world.

Mark 16:15 (KJV) – “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”

There are times when I’ll be wondering, if through my web ministry if I’m reaching enough, doing enough, or expecting too much; but then I realize I’m right where I’m supposed to be, doing what I’m called to be doing.

Each decade of my life brought another dimension to my years. Each decade brought another aspect or clarity of the Word to my heart and soul. And each day is another day to learn, to share the Word, and to most especially, obey and love God with all my heart, mind, strength and soul.

Matthew 22:37 (NLT)- Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’

What came to me was very profound and yet perfectly simple. We are existing to serve God, no matter our age or circumstance. When we follow Him, we are surrendering to His will and His purpose in life. And when we “listen” to His voice, we know Him, and follow Him gladly and commit to Him in all things. Hearing Him and following Him is quite different from “hearing and doing nothing” —We MUST follow Him when we hear His voice.

John 10:27 (KJV)-“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

Are you doing all you can to serve Him daily? Have you expressed Your love in actions towards others?  Have you shared the Word?

“Father, thank You for guiding me since birth, showing me, leading me, and directing me to do Your will, may I continue to listen to Your voice and commandments all the days of my life, I am Yours, and I know You are my LORD, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Another Week Of Loving You~

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Mark 12:30-31 LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART Bible Quote ...

Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’  Matthew 22:37 (NKJV)

Jesus emphasized that the most important commandment would be the verse above in Matthew. That was always an important and outstanding message from Jesus, and so I began reflecting upon it more so than eve. As the week comes to a close, I started a mental picture of what I had done the past week that solidified that statement in my life overall.

  • Listening and loving Him through others, as Christ commands.

Well for one thing, I listened to several people speaking about their lives, and these people are very unhappy. Their circumstances are all so dim and exhausting in terms of their relationships, or lack thereof. It is sad, frustrating and to be honest, exhausting and draining. However, it’s done in my heart for the LORD, who says, “go and love as I have loved you” and when we love, which includes “listening” and helping others, it is part of His plan. These individuals are non-stop in their daunting misery, and “what-ifs” conversations, or murmurings. But–Jesus wants us to love. And by loving others, we are following His commandments of “loving.”  We are a daily reflection of His light, and when we do as He commands and trust in Him and follow Him by being a representative of who He is, the best we can. We are loving Him fully, and with all our heart, mind and soul. Let’s examine what some issues are that could be attributed to this verse, some we may not even be aware of.

  • Patience with others and holding back any negative responses that would otherwise escalate into a futile disagreement or worse.

Then I went on to being silent in areas that could become “challenging” to say the least, which at times can be a struggle. I am sure most of you reading this post can attest or relate to that right now, am I correct in that assumption?

Well, patience is a Characteristic of the Spirit, and virtue and gift, but it is at times overwhelmingly difficult to handle.

For example, if someone is being arbitrary or bearing an accusatory or condescending tone while engaged in some dialogue, it can be a Herculean task to keep our mouths and responses on hold. But through the spirit I did so.  Numerous times in fact. To be fair, it’s in my nature to hold back and not respond to negative and derisive speech. I guess it comes from my career in the nursing home industry. I listened to all of the patients, and loved them unconditionally, and treated them all the same irrespective of their differences in personality, or behavior.  I thank God for this gift from His hands of grace.

  • Courteous behavior displayed by being an example of Christ.

Then I thought about being courteous to others, respecting someone and honoring someone. For one thing, on the road there can be discourteous and aggressive drivers, no matter where you may live. And exercising self-control and not giving in to someone cutting you off or honking their horn, because you lingered a moment too long at the traffic light, is a mainstay with me. I am an overly courteous driver, and at times I am dismayed by the way others drive. Not to mention it can be dangerous these days. Road rage is real, and so be extra careful not to get mixed up in any of it. But…again, courtesy is part of the good spirit, and that is also a sign of loving God. Jesus was both kind and courteous. Again, a witness to Him when we behave accordingly, as He wishes us to behave as Christians.

  • Helping others, offering a smile or some other means of extending your love for your neighbors.

Our neighbor is an individual in her late 80’s and a widow. We offer her our help where we can. Taking out her garbage, picking up something in the store for her. Offering a ride to the doctor or other appointment. Bringing her some dinner or lunch. These are all ways to give willingly and with love. Jesus said by helping others, you are helping me. Another example of loving Him and following the commandments. A representation of the Spirit and who Christ is.

These examples, along with praying and writing devotionals to get His Word out are all ways to engage fully and actively in Matthew 22:37. I will try even harder this coming week, God willing. As He leads, guide, directs, and shows me the path. Which He always does. And which I am entirely grateful for.

Have you reflected on your week?

Have you shown and demonstrated that very important verse in Matthew 22:37?

Try marking it down this week, you will be pleasantly surprised at how much you are doing in response to Jesus’ words.  And remember through it all, Jesus loves you!

“Father, may I always be in accordance with Your will, Your commandments, and Your ways, may I be an example of Your Spirit that dwells inside me, may I be all that I can be every single day of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: I Praise You and Choose You~

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“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

This verse encourages those of faith and followers that believe to pursue spiritual growth and transformation by aligning with God’s will. It is a course of action that we choose to partake in. It is a reality in which we live, and it is an assurance of comfort and dependability knowing there is a God.

Aligning with God’s word is fundamentally akin to building a house on the Rock, the foundation is sure and sturdy. No chance of it caving in or sending us toppling to the ground.

When we are with God in all we do, the mission is obvious and the rewards unmeasurable. The heaven’s rain down blessings when we become in-sync with God and His Word. We are able to think clearly, react appropriately and have an easier way of communicating with all that we encounter.

There are consequences to our behavior and actions. In psychology it was termed A-B-C.   Action = Behavior = Consequences. And so too for our choices in terms of our Christianity. Either rewards will be forthcoming, or not.

Choosing the world or God should be easy, a no-brainer as it’s said.

“Father, I pray for those in the darkness for them to see the light and to follow Your Word, and for their choice to be You and only You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: My Life Here Renewed Daily By You There~

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1 John 5:13: I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

I have always known the existence of God, since a little child. I was fortunate to be raised in a Christian environment, with church going parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. In fact, Sunday was a fine time to worship, meet and greet…and have others over for family dinners. It was special from sunrise to sunset. The foundation for my life was built upon the Rock, with my parents setting a fine example.

Today, as a senior citizen I look back and realize that God has ALWAYS been with me, through thick and thin. Through rough times and good times. And all the in between times.

As Christians we recognize God’s Word and surrender to His commandments and try to stay within the parameters of His Wishes. Being human, we sometimes fall short, and of course we repent and with contrite hearts we are forgiven.

We learn things from our falls, and we gain insight and wisdom because of them. I think that’s what defines humanity. Our ability to gain strength and depth with each transgression or tribulation.

I don’t know about anyone else, but being Bible savvy doesn’t mean I don’t learn something new each time I pick it up and read. There is a new thought or understanding and room for growth every time.

Living is living while here on earth, but when we are called home, that will be ETERNAL LIFE and all the rewards that come from that. I live daily because of Him living “there.”  And one day, I look forward to my future eternal home.

Until such time, I live for Him and Him alone.

“Father, God, thank You for the Word and Your guidance yesterday, today, tomorrow and all the days of my life here on earth, I embrace You and Your promises of the rewards to come, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: You Bring Me Comfort and Joy~

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Psalm 16:11 – Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Believing and living for Christ and embracing His Spirit, there is pleasures and promises that are assured and renewed by His breath of life that lives within and dwells within.

Being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit is akin to being connected to a reservoir. The Spirit refreshes and the harmony of His Presence flows in symmetry according to all things for His purpose and will.

When filled with His Spirit your countenance becomes enshrouded in peace, and when you trust Him fully, there is a directness and openness that counteracts any aversive circumstance you encounter.

“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.” – Romans 15:13

When we are willing participants in His doctrine and commandments, and we surrender to all that He is—We can not only survive but get through any scenario or circumstance we run into.

When we pray to Him and give ourselves fully to Him, we don’t have to worry about anything. His peace will fill us completely. His protection covers us.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Our lives are not just about the tangibles, but about the intangibles. It’s about believing in things that are not seen. It’s not about ‘what will I eat, drink or do? ‘ It’s about seeking the Kingdom of God in all we do.  It’s about gaining knowledge and wisdom in His Word and love. It’s about letting the Spirit rule.

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 14:17

It’s about giving Him glory, honor and respect. It’s about knowing that He is the reason we are, and the reason we live. It’s about feeling His love and responding to it by loving Him back unconditionally.

We can never fully comprehend the extent and capacity and depth of His love for us, but we can willingly hold onto Him and love Him for all we are and do.

When we aspire to be all we can be for Him, we will purpose our lives by being in alignment with His Word all the days of our lives. And when we come into His Holy Presence when we are called home and live in Eternal joy we will have attained and retain all the rewards in which He alone can give and will employ.

“Father, thank You for filling me with Joy, and the love of Your peace, in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You for Your Messages & Word~

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Matthew 16:19- And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. –

His message and His voice are clear. He wants us to share and promote His Word and His love. He gives us countless warnings and predictions, miracles and overwhelming evidence in the Bible.  All of the incidents and undisputable truths and depictions starting in Genesis in the Old Testament, right down to the last book of Revelation in the New Testament.

When we take the time to review and digest it and understand His whole plan for us and for the world, we get to assist Him in ways we are called to do bringing it all to fruition. We are able to be His servants and bring light into the darkness, through Christ. It isn’t our “own power” but His that brings things to pass. It is under His wings and His guidance and direction, and infinite and mighty power that we are able to accomplish such things.

When He says ” whatever we do here on earth will be loosed in heaven” simply stated means; our acts and deeds that we perform here in the flesh, will follow us in spirit when we pass away.

When we get to heaven we are judged, and it will be based on numerous factors. Our deeds, our compassion for others, our kindness to strangers, our obedience to Him, and our fundamental behavior as Christians overall. And our belief in His Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and King.

When we do good here on earth and are in alignment with His doctrine and Word and avoid the evil aspects of the world…we will bring that with us to the afterlife.  When we sin continuously have no regard for His Word or commandments, and live haphazardly in a den of iniquity, we will have to face the LORD and the terrible day of reckoning.

We will either be rewarded for such deeds. Or we won’t. there really isn’t any other way. You’re for Him. Or you’re not.

Which category do you fall into? Are you ready for the day of reckoning? Do you know Christ intimately? Or is He merely a “name” to you? Which side of the gulf will you be on when you pass away?

“And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence”.Luke 16:26

 

“Father, thank You for Your Word, and Your guidance and Presence, may I be a vessel and servant for You all the days of my life, lead me LORD and know I live for You now and always, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Little Seeds Of Faith: Proverbs 3:1 Sunday School Lesson Idea