DEAR GOD: I Worship You In Spirit And Truth~

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The Spirit of God and Holy Spirit and Their Many Forms | Bible Study ...

John 4:24 (ESV): “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Introduction

John 4:24 is a profound verse that encapsulates the essence of true worship. It emphasizes the nature of God and the manner in which believers are called to worship Him. This essay will explore the depth of this verse, supported by other scriptures, moral thoughts, and reflective questions. We will conclude with a powerful prayer and a scripture for the day.

Understanding the Verse

The verse begins with a declaration of God’s nature: “God is spirit.” This means that God is not confined to physical form or limitations. He is omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient. Worshiping God “in spirit and truth” means that our worship must be genuine, heartfelt, and aligned with the truth of God’s Word.

Supporting Scriptures

  1. Psalm 145:18 (ESV): “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
    • This verse reinforces the idea that God desires sincerity and truth in our worship.
  2. Philippians 3:3 (ESV): “For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.”
    • Paul emphasizes that true worship is led by the Spirit and not by external rituals.
  3. Romans 12:1 (ESV): “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
    • Worship involves offering our entire being to God, living a life that is pleasing to Him.

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  • Authenticity in Worship: True worship is not about external appearances or rituals but about the condition of our hearts. God seeks worshipers who are sincere and genuine.
  • Alignment with God’s Word: Worship must be rooted in the truth of Scripture. It is essential to know God’s Word and let it guide our worship.
  • Living a Life of Worship: Worship is not limited to a specific time or place. It is a lifestyle of honoring God in all that we do.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I ensure that my worship is genuine and heartfelt?
  2. In what ways can I incorporate the truth of God’s Word into my daily worship?
  3. How can I live a life that reflects true worship beyond Sunday services?

 

Evidences of a Spirit Filled Christian ~ dailyJesus

 

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. We acknowledge that You are spirit, and we desire to worship You in spirit and truth. Help us to be sincere in our worship, aligning our hearts with Your Word. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, guiding us to live lives that honor and glorify You. May our worship be a sweet aroma to You, pleasing and acceptable in Your sight. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Ponder Scripture for the Day

Psalm 29:2 (ESV): “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.”

May this inspire you to deepen your worship and draw closer to God in spirit and truth. In the love of Christ, be blessed.

 

DEAR GOD: Rejoice, Rejoice & Rejoice – Always & Forever~

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Rejoice in the Lord always. Lettering. calligraphy vector. Ink ...

 

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” –

Philippians 4:4 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, emphasizes the importance of joy in the life of a believer. This verse is a powerful reminder that our joy is not dependent on our circumstances but is rooted in our relationship with the Lord. Paul wrote these words while he was in prison, facing uncertainty and hardship. Despite his situation, he found reasons to rejoice because his joy was anchored in Christ.

How We May Rejoice in All We Have and Do

  1. Recognize God’s Sovereignty: Understanding that God is in control of every aspect of our lives allows us to find peace and joy, even in difficult times. Trusting in His plan and purpose helps us to rejoice, knowing that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28).
  2. Cultivate Gratitude: A heart of gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. By counting our blessings and acknowledging God’s provision, we can experience joy in every situation (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
  3. Embrace Community: Sharing our lives with fellow believers provides encouragement and support. Rejoicing together in the Lord strengthens our faith and fosters a sense of belonging (Hebrews 10:24-25).
  4. Serve Others: Acts of service and kindness bring joy to both the giver and the receiver. By serving others, we reflect Christ’s love and find fulfillment in making a positive impact (Galatians 5:13).
  5. Spend Time in Worship and Prayer: Regularly connecting with God through worship and prayer renews our spirit and fills us with His joy. It is in His presence that we find true and lasting joy (Psalm 16:11).

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  • Joy is a Choice: We can choose to focus on God’s goodness and faithfulness, regardless of our circumstances.
  • Joy is Contagious: Our joy can inspire and uplift others, creating a ripple effect of positivity and hope.
  • Joy Reflects Our Faith: A joyful heart is a testament to our trust in God and His promises.

Christian Values in Today’s World

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, maintaining a joyful spirit can be a powerful witness to our faith. By embodying joy, we demonstrate the transformative power of a relationship with Christ. Our joy can shine as a beacon of hope, drawing others to the source of our strength and peace.

Reflective Questions

  1. What are some specific ways you can cultivate joy in your daily life?
  2. How can you share your joy with others in your community?
  3. In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more fully to experience His joy?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 118:24: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
  • Nehemiah 8:10: “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
  • John 15:11: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

Prayer

“LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of joy that comes from knowing You. Help us to rejoice in You always, regardless of our circumstances. Fill our hearts with gratitude and trust in Your sovereign plan. May our joy be a testimony of Your goodness and love, drawing others to You. Strengthen us to serve others with a joyful spirit and to find delight in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

 

“In Christ alone, my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song.” These words remind us that our ultimate source of joy, hope, and strength is found in Jesus Christ.

When we place our trust in Him, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that He is with us. Our joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Him.

How do you find strength and hope in Christ in your daily life?

 

Isaiah 61:10 I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in ...

 

DEAR GOD: You Are My Rock & Salvation -Amen!

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The Rock of Our Salvation (Psalm 95:1) – December 3rd, 2017 – AM ...

 “He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.”
Psalm 62:2 (ESV)

 

This verse emphasizes the exclusive and unwavering trust the psalmist places in God. By describing God as a rock, salvation, and fortress, the psalmist conveys a sense of absolute security and stability. The phrase “I shall not be greatly shaken” reflects a profound confidence in God’s protection and deliverance, even in the face of life’s challenges.

In a world where uncertainty and instability often prevail, Psalm 62:2 offers a powerful reminder of the steadfastness and reliability of God. The psalmist’s declaration that God alone is their rock, salvation, and fortress underscores the importance of placing our trust solely in Him. This verse invites us to reflect on the sources of security we rely on in our lives and challenges us to shift our focus to God as our ultimate refuge.

The imagery of God as a rock suggests a foundation that is unmovable and enduring. Just as a rock withstands the forces of nature, so too does God’s presence provide us with unwavering support. The term “salvation” highlights God’s role as our deliverer, the one who rescues us from danger and grants us eternal life. Finally, the depiction of God as a fortress conveys a sense of protection and safety, a place where we can find shelter from the storms of life.

Moral Thoughts

In today’s society, we often seek security in material possessions, relationships, or personal achievements. However, Psalm 62:2 reminds us that true and lasting security can only be found in God. By placing our trust in Him, we can experience a sense of peace and stability that transcends our circumstances. This verse calls us to reevaluate our priorities and to anchor our lives in the unchanging nature of God.

Moral Takeaway

The key takeaway from Psalm 62:2 is the importance of trusting in God as our sole source of security and strength. When we rely on Him, we can face life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that we are firmly grounded in His protection and love. This verse encourages us to cultivate a deep and unwavering faith in God, recognizing that He is our rock, salvation, and fortress.

Reflective Questions

  1. In what areas of your life do you feel shaken or uncertain?
  2. How can you shift your focus from temporary sources of security to God as your ultimate refuge?
  3. What steps can you take to deepen your trust in God’s protection and deliverance?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 18:2: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
  • Isaiah 26:4: “Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.”
  • Proverbs 18:10: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my rock, salvation, and fortress. In a world filled with uncertainty, I am grateful for Your unwavering presence and protection. Help me to place my trust solely in You and to find my security in Your unchanging nature. Strengthen my faith and guide me as I navigate life’s challenges. May I always remember that You are my refuge and my strength. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Isaiah 26:3: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

Matthew 7:24-29 "Jesus the Rock of Our Salvation" - YouTube

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Carrying Me Always~

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[Genesis 09] God's Promises

 Isaiah 46:4 is a powerful verse that speaks to the enduring presence and care of God throughout our lives. It reads: “And even to your old age I am He; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.”

This verse reassures us of God’s unwavering commitment to His children, promising His support and deliverance from the beginning to the end of our lives.

Supportive Scriptures

  1. 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.”
  2. Psalm 71:18– “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.”
  3. Matthew 28:20 – “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

These scriptures reinforce the message of Isaiah 46:4, emphasizing God’s eternal presence and support.

Moral Thoughts

The moral lesson from Isaiah 46:4 is the assurance of God’s perpetual care and faithfulness. Regardless of our age or circumstances, God remains with us, guiding and supporting us through every stage of life. This verse encourages us to trust in God’s plan and His ability to carry us through life’s challenges.

Reflective Questions

  1. How does knowing that God is with you from birth to old age affect your daily life?
  2. In what ways have you experienced God’s support and deliverance in your life?
  3. How can you share the message of God’s enduring presence with others?

Takeaway Thoughts to Ponder

  • God’s commitment to us is unwavering and eternal.
  • We are never alone; God’s presence is a constant source of comfort and strength.
  • Trusting in God’s plan allows us to face life’s challenges with confidence and peace.

Heartfelt Message for a Christian Today

As Christians, we can find immense comfort in knowing that God is with us always, even unto our last breath and beyond. This assurance allows us to live our lives with confidence, knowing that we are never alone. God’s promise to carry and deliver us is a testament to His boundless love and faithfulness. Let us hold onto this promise and find solace in His eternal Presence, knowing that His love and promises will never end, and will guide us unto the true existence of our lives – in the Eternity. Amen!

Closing Prayer

“My LORD- we thank You for Your unwavering Presence and support throughout our lives. We are grateful for Your promise to carry and deliver us, even in our old age. Help us to trust in Your plan and find comfort in Your eternal Presence. May we share this message of hope and assurance with others, so they too may experience Your boundless love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

May this verse remind you of God’s constant presence and comfort, no matter the circumstances you face today.

Bible Moment – God’s PROMISE – Diocese of Jamaica & The Cayman Islands

DEAR GOD: I Walk In Your Light -Darkness No More~

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Walking in the Light | Rescue the Perishing Magazine

John 8:12 (NLT)

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”

This verse is a profound declaration by Jesus, emphasizing His role as the Spiritual light that guides humanity out of darkness. The imagery of light and darkness is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing the contrast between good and evil, truth and falsehood, life and death.

Jesus, as the light of the world, offers clarity, direction, and hope to those who choose to follow Him.

Supportive Scriptures:

Psalm 27:1 (NLT): “The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?”

1 John 1:5 (NLT): “This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.”

Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT): “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

Moral Thoughts:

The moral implications of this verse are profound. By declaring Himself as the light of the world, Jesus invites us to live in truth and righteousness. Following Jesus means rejecting the darkness of sin and embracing a life of integrity, compassion, and love. It is a call to be a tower of hope and goodness in a world that often feels overshadowed by despair and evil, and continuous chaos.

Meditative Thoughts:

As we meditate on this verse, we can reflect on the ways Jesus has illuminated our own lives. How has His light guided us through difficult times? How has it revealed truths about ourselves and the world around us? Meditating on Jesus as the light of the world can bring a sense of peace and assurance, knowing that we are never alone in our journey.

Reflective Questions:

  1. In what areas of my life do I need the light of Jesus to shine more brightly?
  2. How can I be a light to others, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus in my daily interactions?
  3. What steps can I take to ensure that I am walking in the light and not in darkness?

Heartfelt Love for the Lord:

Our love for the Lord is deepened by recognizing His unwavering love for us. Jesus, the light of the world, willingly entered our darkness to bring us into His marvelous light. His love is sacrificial, pure, and eternal. As we grow in our relationship with Him, our hearts overflow with gratitude and love for the One who has redeemed us.

Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the light of the world, to guide us out of darkness and into Your glorious light. Help us to follow Him faithfully, allowing His light to transform our lives and shine through us to others. May we be beacons of hope, love, and truth in a world that desperately needs Your light. Strengthen our hearts and deepen our love for You each day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder for the Day:

Psalm 119:105 (NLT): “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”

May this verse remind you of the guiding light of God’s word in your life today, God Bless you~

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DEAR GOD: Love You With All My Heart & Lean Not On My Own Understanding~

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Proverbs 3:5-6 #17 'Trust in the Lord with all your Heart' Bible Verse

 

Proverbs 3:5-8- Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

The fundamentals of loving God is an inward and outward process, but the feeling of love, is a gift from above.  He loves us with the gusto of a welcome breeze on a balmy night, He loves us with the strength of a powerful eagle soaring high above the earth, He loves us with the softness of a single snowflake swirling about, He loves us with the depth of an ocean, endless, ever moving, and mysterious, and He loves us, most importantly -as a “Father loves His child.”

Trusting God and loving Him through every situation we face is one of the most intimate relationships we could and ever will have.  When we trust Him, fully and completely, even when all things suggest otherwise, we are held up by His right hand of righteousness.  When we love Him above all else, we are inherently part of His Kingdom and assured a place and a crown for our actions here, which will follow us as we enter Heaven.

Trusting Him and leaning not on “your own understanding” is being keenly aware of our frailties, and knowing we are merely “human” and not Sovereign as is our Master and Lord-our Father.

He has given us His promises in writing-and His voice is clearly heard to those who follow Him.  We know His voice, and we follow.  He will never leave us, nor forsake us, no matter the circumstances, or how difficult or challenging.

  • When someone says “NO”— GOD says “YES!”
  • When someone says, “That’s not possible” — “With God- ALL things are possible!”
  • When someone says, “That will never happen” God says, “Keep your faith, and it WILL happen!”
  • When a situation looks dim-GOD will shine HIS LIGHT!
  • When an outcome seems dire-GOD will provide and lift you up!
  • When circumstances suffocate You-God will give you Breath!
  • In other words, the message here is-TRUST… TRUST… TRUST…” in the LORD, and He will provide.
  • He will sustain.
  • He will show you the way.
  • And He will guide your paths.

Someone might be reading this message right now, who is in a deep valley, just remember this, “He is walking with you in that valley, and He will bring you out of it. Put all of your trust in Him, and He will do the rest.”

Keep looking up for all of your answers, and know that God is there for you, no matter what. And LOVES you more than we could possibly understand.

All the Glory and Honor and Praise are Yours and Yours alone, and you get the victory always, no matter what.

“Father, thank You for loving me and holding me as only a Father can, I trust in You and You alone, and I realize that no matter what individuals might say, that You have the final word in all accounts, I pray for those in the dark, and those in deep valleys, that they will turn their hearts to You, and accept You fully, completely and recognize You as their LORD AND SAVIOR, so that they will feel the endless love and tranquility that only You can provide, I pray for my brothers and sisters all across the world, and I pray for your light to shine away the darkness in the world, I pray these things in Jesus name, Amen.”

Psalms 118:8 –It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Psalms 112:7 –He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.

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DEAR GOD: You Are My Warrior & King~

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“The Lord is a warrior; Yahweh is his name!” – Exodus 15:3 (NLT)

This powerful verse from the book of Exodus paints a vivid picture of God as a mighty warrior. It is a declaration of His strength, His power, and His unwavering commitment to protect and deliver His people. This verse is part of the Song of Moses, a hymn of praise sung by the Israelites after their miraculous escape from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea. It serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His ability to triumph over any adversary.

Supporting Scriptures

  1. Psalm 24:8 (NLT): “Who is the King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty; the Lord, invincible in battle.”
  2. Isaiah 42:13 (NLT): “The Lord will march forth like a mighty hero; he will come out like a warrior, full of fury. He will shout his battle cry and crush all his enemies.”
  3. Revelation 19:11 (NLT): “Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war.”

These scriptures collectively emphasize God’s role as a divine warrior, fighting for justice and righteousness. They remind us that God is not passive but actively involved in the battles we face, both seen and unseen.

Reflective Questions

  1. In what areas of your life do you need to see God as a warrior fighting on your behalf?
  2. How can you trust in God’s strength and power when facing your own battles?
  3. What does it mean to you personally that Yahweh is His name, and how does this impact your relationship with Him?

Moral Takeaways

  1. God’s Strength: We can rely on God’s strength in times of trouble. He is our defender and protector.
  2. Divine Intervention: God intervenes in our lives, often in ways we cannot see or understand, to bring about His purposes.
  3. Faith and Trust: Our faith in God as a warrior encourages us to trust Him more deeply, knowing that He is always fighting for us.

Meditative Thoughts

  • Reflect on the times God has fought battles for you, whether you were aware of it or not.
  • Meditate on the name “Yahweh” and what it signifies about God’s eternal presence and unchanging nature.
  • Consider how you can embody the strength and courage of God in your daily life.

 Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You and recognize that You are our mighty warrior, Yahweh, the One who fights for us and delivers us from all harm. We thank You for Your unwavering love and protection. Lord, help us to lean on You in every battle we face. May we always remember that You are with us, guiding us, and fighting for us. Fill our hearts with courage and faith, knowing that with You, we are never alone. We honor You, Christ, and we thank You for Your sacrificial love that has given us victory over sin and death. In Your precious name, we pray. Amen.”

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:57 (KJV)

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DEAR GOD: You Love Me!-Thank You!-With Love, Me~

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Jesus answered and said unto him, “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” – John 14:23

This verse from the Gospel of John is a profound declaration of the intimate relationship between Jesus, His followers, and God the Father. It encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship and the promise of divine fellowship.

Heartfelt Reflection

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of love and obedience. To love Jesus is to keep His words, to live according to His teachings, and to embody His commandments in our daily lives. This love is not merely an emotion but a commitment to follow His path, even when it is challenging. It is a love that transforms us, aligning our hearts with His divine will.

The promise that follows is extraordinary. Jesus assures us that if we love Him and keep His words, both He and the Father will come to us and make their home with us. This is not a temporary visit but a permanent dwelling. It signifies a deep, abiding presence of God in our lives, offering us comfort, guidance, and peace.

Moral Thoughts

This verse calls us to examine our lives and our relationship with Jesus. Are we truly keeping His words? Are we living in a way that reflects His love and teachings? It is a reminder that our faith is not just about belief but about action. Our love for Jesus should be evident in the way we live, the choices we make, and the way we treat others.

Meditative Views

As we meditate on this verse, let us imagine the profound peace and joy of having God make His abode with us. Picture the warmth and light of His presence filling our hearts and homes. Let this image inspire us to deepen our love for Jesus and our commitment to His teachings.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I better keep Jesus’ words in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I show my love for Jesus through my actions?
  3. How does the promise of God’s abiding presence bring comfort and strength to me?

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible promise of Your Presence in our lives. Help us to love Jesus with all our hearts and to keep His words faithfully. May Your Holy Spirit guide us and strengthen us in our journey of faith. Let Your presence fill our heart and home, bringing us peace, joy, and comfort. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thoughts and Scripture to Ponder

Thought: Let us strive to live in a way that reflects our love for Jesus, knowing that His presence is with us always.

 “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” – John 14:15

 

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DEAR GOD: Thank You For Never Leaving Me~

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Jesus Will Never Leave You | LaptrinhX / News

 “…and lo, I will never leave you, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”  Matthew 28:20

 

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus delivers a powerful message to His disciples, known as the Great Commission. This passage encapsulates His divine authority, His command to spread the Gospel, and His enduring presence with His followers. Let’s delve into the profound implications of this passage, supported by other scriptures, meditative thoughts, moral takeaways, reflective questions, and a closing prayer.

Divine Authority

Jesus begins by asserting His authority: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” This declaration is a reminder of His Sovereignty over all creation. It echoes the words of Daniel 7:14, where it is prophesied that the Son of Man will have dominion over all nations. Jesus’ authority is not limited to the spiritual realm but extends to every aspect of existence.

The Call to Evangelize

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” This command is a call to action for all believers. It emphasizes the importance of spreading the Gospel to every corner of the world. Acts 1:8 reinforces this mission: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

Teaching and Discipleship

Jesus instructs His followers to teach others to observe His commandments. This aspect of the Great Commission highlights the importance of discipleship. It is not enough to simply share the Gospel; we must also nurture and guide new believers in their faith. 2 Timothy 2:2 encourages this practice: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

The Promise of His Presence

“And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Jesus’ promise of His continual presence is a source of comfort and strength for believers. Hebrews 13:5 echoes this assurance: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” No matter the challenges we face, we can trust that Jesus is with us, guiding and supporting us.

Meditative Thoughts

  • Reflect on the authority of Jesus and what it means for your life.
  • Consider the global mission of the Church and your role in it.
  • Contemplate the importance of teaching and nurturing new believers.
  • Find comfort in the promise of Jesus’ presence in your daily life.

Moral Takeaways

  • Obedience: Follow Jesus’ command to spread the Gospel and make disciples.
  • Faithfulness: Trust in Jesus’ authority and His promise to be with you always.
  • Commitment: Dedicate yourself to teaching and guiding others in their faith journey.
  • Courage: Be bold in sharing the Gospel, knowing that Jesus is with you.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I actively participate in the Great Commission in my community?
  2. What steps can I take to deepen my understanding of Jesus’ teachings?
  3. How can I support and mentor new believers in their faith?
  4. In what ways can I remind myself of Jesus’ presence in my daily life?

  Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the authority and power given to Jesus, our Savior. Help us to embrace the Great Commission with courage and dedication. Guide us as we share the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. Strengthen our faith and remind us of Your constant Presence in our lives. May we be faithful in teaching and nurturing others and may Your love shine through us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture for the Day

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” –

Joshua 1:9

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DEAR GOD: Listening To Your Sound Word~

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listening to God

 Hold on to the example of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Protect, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you.
2 Timothy 1:13-14 (NASB)

In 2 Timothy 1:13-14, Paul exhorts Timothy to “hold fast the form of sound words” that he has heard from Paul, and to do so “in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.” He further instructs Timothy to keep “that good thing which was committed unto thee” by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.

Supporting Scriptures

1 Timothy 6:20-21: “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called.

Titus 1:9: “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”

John 14:26: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”

Meditative Thoughts

Paul’s words to Timothy are a reminder of the importance of adhering to sound doctrine and teachings. In a world filled with conflicting messages and false teachings, it is crucial to cling to the truth of God’s Word. The “sound words” refer to the teachings of Christ and the apostles, which are the foundation of our faith. Holding fast to these teachings requires both faith and love, as they are rooted in our relationship with Christ.

The “good thing” that Paul refers to is the gospel message and the ministry entrusted to Timothy. This precious gift is to be guarded and preserved through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit not only dwells within us but also empowers us to live out our faith and fulfill our calling.

Moral Takeaways

  1. Faithfulness to God’s Word: We are called to remain steadfast in our commitment to the teachings of Christ, even in the face of opposition.
  2. Love as the Foundation: Our adherence to sound doctrine should be motivated by love for Christ and others.
  3. Dependence on the Holy Spirit: We must rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us, teach us, and empower us to live out our faith.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I ensure that I am holding fast to the sound words of Scripture in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I demonstrate faith and love in my adherence to God’s teachings?
  3. How can I be more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in my life?

 Prayer

” Father, thank You for the precious gift of Your Word and the teachings of Christ. Help me to hold fast to these sound words with unwavering faith and love. Empower me through Your Holy Spirit to guard the gospel message and live out my calling with integrity and devotion. May Your truth be a light in my life, guiding me in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

Thought for the Day

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” – Colossians 3:16

 

“BE LISTENING TO GOD!” 2/19/2019 Written by Pastor Randy Burbank for ...

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