god’s peace

DEAR GOD: I Embrace Your Promises Fully & Always~

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God’s Promises in Scripture

1. Promise of Strength

  • Scripture: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” — Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)
  • Explanation: God promises to be our strength in times of fear and discouragement. He reassures us that His mighty hand will uphold us, providing the help we need in every situation.
  • Reflective Questions: In what areas of my life do I feel weak or afraid? How can I trust God more to be my strength and support?
  • Moral Thought: Trusting in God’s strength allows us to face life’s challenges with confidence and peace.

2. Promise of Peace

  • Scripture: “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7 (KJV)
  • Explanation: God’s peace is a profound gift that surpasses human understanding. It guards our hearts and minds, especially during times of anxiety and uncertainty.
  • Reflective Questions: How often do I seek God’s peace in my life? What steps can I take to allow His peace to rule over my anxieties?
  • Moral Thought: Embracing God’s peace equips us to live with serenity and faith, even amidst life’s storms.

3. Promise of Provision

  • Scripture: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19 (KJV)
  • Explanation: God promises to provide for all our needs through His abundant riches in Christ. This assures us that no need is too great for Him to meet.
  • Reflective Questions: Are there areas in my life where I struggle to believe in God’s provision? How can I demonstrate my trust in His ability to provide?
  • Moral Thought: Trusting in God’s provision enables us to live generously and with gratitude, knowing that He meets our every need.

4. Promise of Eternal Life

  • Scripture: “And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.” — 1 John 2:25 (KJV)
  • Explanation: The promise of eternal life is the ultimate assurance for believers, guaranteeing a future with God beyond this earthly existence.
  • Reflective Questions: How does the promise of eternal life shape my daily actions and choices? Am I living in a way that reflects my hope in eternity with God?
  • Moral Thought: Living with the promise of eternal life in mind encourages us to focus on spiritual values and live a life that honors God.

Heartfelt Reflection and Prayer

Reflecting on these promises, we see the faithful character of God and His unwavering commitment to us. His promises are true and trustworthy, providing us with strength, peace, provision, and the hope of eternal life. As we meditate on His Word and cling to His promises, our faith is fortified, and our lives are transformed.

Prayer:

“LORD – Thank You for Your precious promises. We are in awe of Your strength, peace, provision, and the hope of eternal life You offer us through Your Word. Help us to trust You more each day and to live in a manner that reflects our faith in Your promises. May Your truth guide our hearts and minds, and may we find comfort and assurance in Your unwavering love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

May these reflections in this post/article bring peace as you grow closer to God and remind you of His faithful promises.

Blessings to you on your spiritual journey!

 

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: You Are My Pillar Of Peace~

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Jesus - Peace, Love, Faith

“Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Introduction

In a world often characterized by turmoil, conflict, and uncertainty, the promise of peace is a beacon of hope for many. This verse from 2 Thessalonians encapsulates a profound blessing and assurance from God. It speaks to the heart of Christian faith, emphasizing the ever-present and all-encompassing peace that God offers to His followers.  Let’s together explore the depth of this verse, its moral implications, and its relevance to Christians today. We will also reflect on supportive scriptures, pose reflective questions, and conclude with a powerful prayer and takeaway thoughts.

Moral Reflections

The verse begins with a powerful invocation: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means.” This is not just a wish but a divine assurance. The term “Lord of peace” signifies that peace is not merely an attribute of God but an integral part of His nature. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7), a peace that is not dependent on external circumstances but rooted in the very essence of God.

In today’s world, where anxiety, stress, and conflict are rampant, this promise of peace is more relevant than ever. Christians are called to be ambassadors of this peace, reflecting God’s tranquility in their lives. This peace is not passive but active, urging believers to seek reconciliation, justice, and love in their interactions with others.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do you experience God’s peace in your daily life?
  2. In what ways can you be an ambassador of God’s peace in your community?
  3. What are the obstacles that prevent you from fully embracing God’s peace?
  4. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of peace through prayer and scripture?

Supportive Scriptures

To further understand the depth of God’s peace, let’s look at some supportive scriptures:

  • John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
  • Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
  • Colossians 3:15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
  • Romans 5:1: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

These verses reinforce the idea that God’s peace is a gift, a state of being that transcends human understanding and circumstances. It is a peace that guards our hearts and minds, keeping us anchored in God’s love and grace.

Closing Prayer

“LORD, we come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging You as the LORD of peace. We thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. LORD, we ask that You fill us with Your peace always, by all means. Help us to be vessels of Your peace in a world that desperately needs it. May Your peace reign in our hearts, our homes, and our communities. Guide us to seek reconciliation, justice, and love in all our interactions. We pray for those who are struggling with anxiety, fear, and conflict, that they may find solace in Your Presence. LORD, be with us all, now and always. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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Takeaway Thoughts

As we reflect on 2 Thessalonians 3:16, let us remember that God’s peace is not just a fleeting feeling but a profound state of being that He offers to us. It is a peace that is rooted in His very nature and is available to us at all times, in all circumstances. As Christians, we are called to embody this peace, to be pillars of hope and light and love in a world that often feels chaotic and divided. Let us strive to cultivate this peace in our hearts and extend it to those around us, trusting that the LORD of peace is always with us, guiding and sustaining us with His love and grace.

May the peace of the Lord be with you always.

 

Jesus Is My Peace - Christian Inspirational Images

DEAR GOD: I Need Your Wisdom & Love~

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“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.”
                                                                                              -James 3:17-18

 

Wisdom from Above 

In the book of James, we find a beautiful passage that speaks to the essence of true wisdom. Let’s delve into this scripture and explore its profound meaning. It is the inherent characteristic of the LORD and through His grace He offers it to His children. Each time we read His Word, and take time to reflect, meditate we are filled with more wisdom from above. When we fixate on goodness we take in the essence of the LORD and we are filled with peace and wisdom to go the course all the days of our lives.

As we confront the evil in our world and the chaotic happenings around us we are able to readily attain victory, through the LORD JESUS CHRIST!

We are able to jump over hurdles with Him and able to navigate the rough seas. We can take direction from the LORD which will open paths of peace and clarity in what His will is for our lives. We are able to “hear” His voice as being His heir apparent-as he redeemed us and washed us clean with and by His blood.

When we stay within the parameters of what the LORD approves of – we are able to face life with confidence and an assuredly that we will eventually finish this race when we are welcomed into eternal rewards one day.

Until such time, we have a job to do and the LORD is there to guide, direct, lead and touch us as we take on LIFE and all it entails.

The Essence of Wisdom

James begins by describing the characteristics of wisdom that come from above. These qualities serve as a guide for Christians righteous living:

  1. Purity: True wisdom is untainted, free from impurity or hidden agendas. It seeks the highest good for all.
  2. Peaceability: Wisdom promotes harmony and reconciliation. It doesn’t fuel strife but seeks to mend broken relationships.
  3. Gentleness: A wise person approaches others with kindness and compassion. Gentleness is the mark of a humble heart.
  4. Readiness to Listen: Wisdom is open to reason, willing to be entreated. It doesn’t stubbornly cling to its own opinions.
  5. Mercy and Good Fruits: Wisdom bears fruit in acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. It extends mercy to others.
  6. Impartiality: True wisdom treats everyone fairly, without favoritism or bias.
  7. Sincerity: Wisdom is genuine, without hypocrisy. It aligns words and actions.
Reflective Questions
  1. How can we cultivate these qualities in our lives?
    • Reflect on moments when you’ve exhibited these traits. How did it impact your relationships?
    • Consider areas where you can grow in wisdom. What steps can you take?
  2. What obstacles hinder us from embodying these virtues?
    • Explore personal biases, pride, or fear that may hinder wisdom.
    • How can we overcome these obstacles?
  3. How does wisdom impact our communities and the world?
    • Think about historical figures known for their wisdom. How did they influence society?
    • Consider the ripple effect of wise choices in your own life.
Moral Takeaway

Wisdom isn’t just theoretical knowledge; it’s practical and transformative. As we seek wisdom from above, let’s strive to live out these virtues daily. Our actions can sow seeds of peace and righteousness. We can make a difference when we adhere to His Word and His plan for our lives. We can truly operate on a different level as we go about our daily routine, when we bring the Word into everything we do. We can reach others through Christ, by example, by deed, by spirit and by conscious efforts to enforce His gospel of love into our heart as we extend it towards others. Especially those in the dark.

Thoughts to Meditate

Take a moment to meditate on these thoughts:

  • Wisdom is not about knowing everything; it’s about applying what we know.
  • True wisdom seeks the well-being of others, even when it requires sacrifice.
  • May our lives bear the fruit of heavenly wisdom.

 

Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, grant us wisdom that flows from Your heart. May we be vessels of peace, mercy, and gentleness. Help us sow seeds of righteousness in our interactions with others. In Christian unity, we find strength in You LORD, and it is Your peace and love that will sustain us all, in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”

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May we carry these reflections and the LORD’s grace and love while embracing wisdom as a guiding light on our journey. 🙏

DEAR GOD: You Are My Shepherd – Forever~

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Image result for free pictures of psalm 23

Psalm 23, often called “The Lord is My Shepherd,” is one of the most cherished passages in the Bible, offering comfort and hope to believers throughout the ages. Its verses paint a serene picture of God’s guidance, provision, and protection, akin to a shepherd’s care for his sheep.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) This opening line establishes a profound trust in God’s provision. Christians see this as a declaration of God’s sufficiency in all aspects of life. Just as a shepherd meets the needs of his flock, so does God meet the needs of His people.

“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” (Psalm 23:2) Here, the psalmist describes a place of rest and refreshment, symbolizing the spiritual peace and rejuvenation that God provides. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites the weary to come to Him for rest, echoing the sentiment of this verse.

“He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3) God’s restoration is likened to a renewal of strength and spirit. The “paths of righteousness” reflect a life lived in accordance with God’s will, guided by His truth as revealed in the Bible.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) Christians find solace in this verse, especially in times of trouble or grief. It speaks of God’s presence and protection in life’s darkest moments. The “rod and staff” are symbols of a shepherd’s tools, representing discipline and support.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalm 23:5) This imagery suggests honor and abundance, even amidst adversity. The anointing oil signifies blessing and being chosen by God, as kings were anointed in the Old Testament.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6) The psalm concludes with a confident expectation of God’s continual blessings and the ultimate hope of eternal life with Him, as promised in John 14:2-3, where Jesus speaks of preparing a place for His followers.

For Christians, Psalm 23 encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith: trust in God’s care, the peace that comes from His presence, guidance in living a righteous life, comfort in times of fear, the assurance of God’s blessings, and the hope of eternal life.

“Dear Heavenly Father, You are our Shepherd, and in Your care, we lack nothing. Lead us to the green pastures of Your grace and the still waters of Your peace. Restore our souls and guide us in righteousness. Even as we walk through challenging times, let us feel Your presence and find comfort in Your protection.  Bless us, Lord, and let Your goodness and mercy accompany us every day of our lives, until we dwell in Your house forever. Amen. ”

The Lord’s my Shepherd – Stuart Townend [with lyrics] (youtube.com)

The Lord Is My Shepherd

A Psalm of David.

Psalm 23 –

 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
   He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
     He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
    for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

DEAR GOD: You Heal Our Broken Hearts~

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Healing for a broken heart – Rejoice in Him

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” –Matthew 5:41

 Grief is a journey that winds through the valley of despair, climbs the mountains of sorrow, and sometimes finds rest in the meadows of memory. It is a deeply personal and profound experience, unique to each individual, yet universally understood. The act of grieving, of allowing tears to flow for a loved one lost, is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the depth of our love.

In the sacred texts, we find solace and understanding. The scriptures speak to the heart of our pain, offering both comfort and permission to grieve. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” Jesus tells us in the Beatitudes. This assurance is a gentle reminder that our sorrow is seen, our tears are known, and our pain is acknowledged by a compassionate God.

The Psalms, too, are rich with the language of lament. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit,” the Psalmist writes, giving voice to our inner turmoil. In these ancient songs, we find a God who is not distant or disinterested but intimately acquainted with our grief.

As we navigate the tumultuous seas of loss, we may find ourselves questioning the purpose of our pain. Yet, even here, the scriptures offer wisdom. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away,” we read in Revelation. This vision of a future without suffering gives us hope that our grief is not in vain, that it leads us somewhere—a place of healing and wholeness.

In the midst of our grief, we are not alone. We are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses, both seen and unseen, who have walked this path before us. They remind us that to grieve is human, to cry is to honor the love we carry, and to mourn is to move towards healing.

Let us not rush through our grief, nor demand of ourselves a premature composure. Instead, let us grieve fully and deeply, as deeply as we loved. For in our tears, we find a sacred space where the heart can begin to heal, and the soul can start to mend.

 “Heavenly Father, In the quiet sanctuaries of our hearts, we come before You with tears that speak more eloquently than words. You, who collect all our tears in Your bottle, understand the language of our weeping. In our grief, grant us the grace to mourn, the strength to endure, and the hope of Your eternal comfort. May we feel Your presence in our sorrow and find peace in Your promises. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Umbrella & More~

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~Psalm 3:3~
 But You, O Lord, are a shield about me,
My glory, and the One who lifts my head.

So, the rain poured down from the Heavens and I reach for my umbrella – and it shields me from harsh elements- and I am protected!

LORD – You are my umbrella of fortune and blessings and I know You are with me in all kinds of weather. In fact, You control the weather patterns, and it “listens” to You!

When we are aligned in God’s word and pull away from the insignificance of the World, and all its ugly enticements – we are assured of rewards to come here and most especially in the eternity.

Some may say, “why can’t I indulge in some pleasurable things – if I’m good and do good things, what’s the big deal?”  Well, it is a big deal if you’re not adhering to His Word and are doing ungodly things that are not favorable in His sight. God doesn’t want His children to partake in insignificant things or indulge in idolatry. Idolatry is anything that takes you away from the LORD and His Word. No matter how small you may think it is, if it’s an abomination in God’s eyes, and not godly – then it isn’t as “small” as you think it is.

Idolatry is not acceptable in His eyes. This can run the gamut from addictions, possessions, materialistic items, anything that leads to the eviction of God in your life.

We need to concentrate on “living” but staying within the confines and parameters of being C child of Christ and living a life that suits Christians.

He is the provider for all our needs and His provisions are never ending, and His love is free flowing. Nothing and no one can compare to His magnificence, and His Omnipotence.

Do you feel God is your umbrella? Can you recall any time in your life where God protected you fully? Do you have idols in your life you need to be rid of?

“Father, thank You for Your continuous Presence in my life, may I always be in obedience to You and Your Word, may I never stray, and if I do – as I am human- please gently guide me back onto Your path of righteousness, as that is the only path I wish to walk upon, in Jesus’ name I thank You, Amen.”