gods ways

DEAR GOD: Love Your Word & You~

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BIBLE IS GOD’S HOLY WORDS – GOD'S HOTSPOT

 “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.” – Proverbs 3:1-4 (ESV)

These verses, penned by King Solomon, offer timeless wisdom that resonates deeply with both ancient and modern audiences. They emphasize the importance of adhering to God’s commandments and the blessings that follow such obedience.

Meaning Then and Now

In ancient times, these verses were a direct exhortation to remain faithful to God’s laws. The promise of a long life and peace was a tangible reward for their obedience. Today, these verses still hold profound significance. They remind us that living according to God’s principles brings not only spiritual blessings but also practical benefits in our daily lives.

Moral Thoughts

  1. Obedience to God’s Commandments: The call to remember and keep God’s commandments is a reminder that true wisdom and understanding come from God. Obedience is not just about following rules but about aligning our hearts with God’s will.
  2. Steadfast Love and Faithfulness: These virtues are essential for a harmonious life. They foster trust and integrity in our relationships with God and others.
  3. Inner Transformation: Writing God’s commandments on the tablet of our hearts signifies an internal transformation. It’s about allowing God’s word to shape our thoughts, actions, and character.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I better remember and keep God’s commandments in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I demonstrate steadfast love and faithfulness to those around me?
  3. What steps can I take to ensure that God’s teachings are deeply rooted in my heart?

Meditative Thoughts and Actions

  • Daily Scripture Reading: Spend time each day reading and meditating on God’s word. Let it guide your thoughts and actions.
  • Prayer: Seek God’s guidance and strength to live according to His commandments. Ask for a heart that is receptive to His teachings.
  • Acts of Kindness: Show steadfast love and faithfulness through acts of kindness and compassion. Reflect God’s love in your interactions with others.

Supportive Scriptures

  • Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…”
  • Psalm 119:11: “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
  • John 14:15: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”

Powerful Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your timeless wisdom and guidance. Help us to remember and keep Your commandments, not just in our minds but in our hearts. Grant us the strength to live out Your teachings with steadfast love and faithfulness. May Your word transform us from within, leading us to a life of peace, favor, and success in Your sight and in the sight of others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought for the Day

“Let God’s commandments be the guiding light of your heart, leading you to a life filled with peace, love, and divine favor.”

May God’s love and wisdom continue to guide you in all aspects of your life.

Psalm 19:8 The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the ...

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Your Blessings Are A Gift – Thank You~

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Understanding the Blessing and Curses of Deuteronomy 27-28: Deuteronomy ...

 The Tale of Two Paths

In a small village nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, there lived two brothers, Jacob and Ethan. They were known for their contrasting ways of life. Jacob was a devout follower of God’s teachings, while Ethan often strayed from the path of righteousness.

Jacob’s life was filled with blessings. He had a loving family, a bountiful harvest, and a peaceful heart. He often reflected on the words of Deuteronomy 28:2, “And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God.” Jacob’s faith and obedience brought him joy and prosperity.

Ethan, on the other hand, faced many hardships. His crops failed, his relationships were strained, and he felt a constant unrest in his soul. He ignored the warnings of Deuteronomy 28:15, “But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord your God or be careful to do all his commandments and his statutes that I command you today, then all these curses shall come upon you and overtake you.” Ethan’s disregard for God’s commandments led him down a path of sorrow and struggle.

One day, a wise elder visited the village and shared a parable with the brothers. “There are two paths before you,” he said. “One leads to blessings and the other to curses. The choice is yours to make.”

Jacob continued to walk in faith, and his blessings multiplied. Ethan, moved by the elder’s words, began to reflect on his life. He turned to the scriptures and found solace in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

Ethan decided to change his ways. He sought forgiveness and began to follow God’s commandments. Over time, his life transformed. His fields flourished, his relationships healed, and he found peace within himself.

 The Power of God’s Blessings and Cursings

God’s blessings and cursings are central themes in the Bible, illustrating the consequences of obedience and disobedience to His commandments. The scriptures provide numerous examples of how God rewards those who follow His ways and disciplines those who stray.

In Deuteronomy 28, we see a clear depiction of blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. Verses 1-14 outline the blessings that come from following God’s commandments, including prosperity, protection, and favor. Conversely, verses 15-68 detail the curses that result from turning away from God, such as hardship, disease, and defeat.

The story of Jacob and Ethan serves as a modern-day parable, reflecting these biblical principles. Jacob’s life of faith and obedience brought him blessings, while Ethan’s initial disobedience led to curses. However, Ethan’s transformation demonstrates God’s mercy and willingness to forgive those who repent and seek His guidance.

Reflecting on these themes, we can draw several moral thoughts and reflective questions:

  • Moral Thoughts:
    • Obedience to God’s commandments brings blessings and peace.
    • Disobedience leads to hardship and unrest, but repentance can restore us.
    • God’s love and mercy are always available to those who seek Him.
  • Reflective Questions:
    • In what areas of my life am I experiencing God’s blessings?
    • Are there aspects of my life where I am facing challenges due to disobedience?
    • How can I seek God’s guidance and turn towards His path?
  • Meditative Thoughts:
    • “Lord, help me to walk in Your ways and receive Your blessings.”
    • “Forgive me for my shortcomings and guide me back to Your path.”
    • “Thank You for Your mercy and love, which are new every morning.”

By contemplating these questions and thoughts, we can align our lives more closely with God’s will and experience the fullness of His blessings.

“Dear LORD – we’re grateful for Your boundless love and mercy. We acknowledge Your Sovereignty and the wisdom of Your commandments. Lord, we seek Your blessings upon our lives, our families, and our communities. Guide us to walk in Your ways, to obey Your word, and to live in accordance with Your will. Forgive us for our shortcomings and the times we have strayed from Your path. Help us to turn away from sin and to seek Your face earnestly. We pray for Your healing touch upon our hearts and minds, and for the strength to overcome the challenges we face. Lord, we lift up those who are struggling, those who are in need of Your grace and mercy. May Your blessings overflow in their lives, bringing peace, prosperity, and joy. We trust in Your promises, knowing that You are faithful and just. As we reflect on Your Word, let it be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may bear fruit in every good work and grow in the knowledge of You. We thank You, Lord, for Your unending love and the hope we have in You. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness and glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

May this prayer bring you peace and strength as you continue to seek God’s guidance and blessings

DEAR GOD: You Are My Light-Truth- & Tabernacle~

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Gods Light Quotes. QuotesGram

Oh, send out Your light and Your truth! Let them lead me; Let them bring me to Your holy hill And to Your tabernacle-Psalm 43:3

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 “Send Out Your Light”

 Psalm 43:3 is a heartfelt plea to God, expressing the psalmist’s longing for Divine guidance and illumination. The verse beautifully captures the essence of our own personal spiritual journey—a desire to be led by God’s glorious and magnificent light and truth. Let’s unpack this verse together and see if we can truly comprehend and understand what it means, especially to us in todays’ world and times.

Context and Interpretation

The psalmist implores God to “send out Your light and Your truth.” This request reflects a deep yearning for spiritual enlightenment. The imagery of light symbolizes God’s presence, wisdom, and revelation. Truth represents God’s unwavering faithfulness and His Word—the ultimate source of guidance. When we seek Him in all we do and obey His Word – we receive blessings and wisdom as we start to immerse ourselves in Him and His “voice.”  It’s a commitment and a loving type of existence when we follow Him and try to walk and stay on the righteous path – leading to eternal rewards. But we are weak, and mortals. We cannot do it alone!  Only through His strength, and His sustenance can we subsist in a world that is inherently “dark and unyielding” as evidenced by all that is happening around us in our own country and throughout the world. God is the light and the power and the One who is in control at all times, and His hands are the guiding force and gentle direction in which we all emerge victorious – which can only be done through CHRIST!

Supporting Scriptures

  1. John 8:12 (NIV): Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” Jesus embodies the divine light that leads us.
  2. Psalm 119:105 (NIV): “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” God’s Word illuminates our way, dispelling darkness and confusion.

Reflective Questions

  1. How often do we seek God’s light and truth in our decisions and daily life?
  2. Are there areas where we rely on our own understanding rather than seeking divine guidance?

Moral Takeaway

We learn that relying on God’s light and truth is essential for our well-being. Which is to say – our health, heart, body, mind and soul – and Christ is the One that keep us living and breathes LIFE in to all of us.  The WORD does that it brings life.  Just as it did in Ezekiel (37:4-8) when he spoke the Word to the dry bones, and they became flesh and came alive! It keeps us on the right path, prevents stumbling, and ensures alignment with His will.

Then he said to me, “Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. 5 Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath[a] to enter you, and you shall live. 6 And I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the Lord –
Ezekiel 37:4-8.

Meditative Thoughts

Imagine standing on a mist-covered mountain, waiting for the sunrise. As the sun breaks through, it dispels darkness, revealing breathtaking vistas. Similarly, God’s light reveals hidden truths and transforms our perspective.
Consider moments when God’s truth illuminated your path, leading you away from harm or toward blessings.

Principles for Today’s Times

Digital Age: Amid information overload, discern God’s truth from worldly noise. Seek His light through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel. All found in His Word and His ways!

Cultural Relativism: God’s truth transcends cultural norms. Stand firm in Biblical principles even when society shifts and seemingly drags you into it! Learn perspective and keep eyes of JESUS and the Rock will keep you firmly on His foundation of truth and righteousness!

Unity: As believers, we share a common journey. Let God’s light unite us, bridging denominational divides. WE are ONE BODY in CHRIST!

Takeaway Exercise in the LORD

Take a moment to meditate on Psalm 43:3. Close your eyes, visualize God’s light enveloping you, and pray for His guidance. Consider one practical step you can take today to align with His truth as you go about your daily living. embrace His Word and His ways and listen to His voice. And may God’s light lead you to His holy mountain, where His presence dwells!

 Closing Powerful Unity Prayer

“Dear LORD, send forth Your light upon us. Illuminate our hearts, minds, and paths. May we walk in Your truth, guided by Your Word and voice. Remove any veils of confusion or doubt. Unite us as one body, bound by love and faith in all we do all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Remember – He is our ROCK – Refuge – Strength- and LIFE!

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are My Strength & Power Always~

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In God's Strength, We Can Achieve Greater - Blues to Blessings

God is my strength and power,
And He makes my way perfect.
2 Samuel 22:33 (NKJV)

 

The Unassailable Strength of God

In the heart of the Old Testament, nestled within the historical narrative of 2 Samuel, we find a verse that resounds with the timeless truth of God’s strength and sovereignty. 2 Samuel 22:33 declares, “God is my strength and power, And He makes my way perfect,” a testament to the Divine support and guidance that King David experienced throughout his tumultuous life.

This verse is part of a longer song of praise, a psalm of deliverance that David sang to the Lord on the day when the Lord had delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. It encapsulates the essence of David’s reliance on God, not just as a source of physical strength but as the architect of a blameless path through life’s trials and tribulations.

The Bible is overflowing with affirmations of God’s strength and power. In Psalm 18:2, David echoes a similar sentiment, “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust.” This passage reminds us that our fortitude stems not from our own capabilities but from our reliance on God.

The New Testament also carries this theme forward. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul speaks of God’s grace being sufficient, for His power is made perfect in weakness. This paradoxical strength is not one that dominates or destroys but rather empowers and perfects.

Moreover, Isaiah 40:31 offers a vivid image of those who hope in the Lord renewing their strength, soaring on wings like eagles, running without growing weary, walking without fainting. It’s a promise of Divine rejuvenation for the fatigued soul, an assurance that God’s power is an ever-present source of renewal.

As we reflect on these scriptures, we see a pattern of God’s power manifesting not in the absence of adversity but amidst it. It’s a power that doesn’t prevent the storm but steadies the ship in its raging waves. It’s a strength that doesn’t remove the mountain but grants us the endurance to climb it.

Reflective Questions

  • How have you experienced God’s strength in your own life?
  • In what ways can recognizing God’s power transform your approach to challenges?
  • How does the assurance of God’s perfect way influence your daily decisions and actions?

Closing Thoughts

In the overall grand scheme of life, each action we do or apply is observed and watched by our LORD. He is the One that ultimately judge us by our actions and thoughts and ways – this is woven with Divine intention. May we rest in the knowledge that the God who created the universe is the same God who promises to make our way perfect. He is there non-stop protecting, leading, directing, guiding.  Let us walk in that perfection, not as a measure of our own righteousness, but as a reflection of His strength and power at work within us, and above all as a testament of HIS LOVE for His children – along with all of His promises in the Bible…

” LORD, You are our strength and our Shield, our Rock in times of trouble. Your power is unmatched, Your wisdom unsearchable. As we meditate on Your Word, may we find solace in Your strength and guidance on the path You’ve set before us. Help us to trust in Your Sovereign hand, knowing that You work all things for our good and Your glory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May this verse and post through the LORD’s wisdom and guidance bring about a deeper understanding and knowledge of the LORD’s love, and how we may apply this to our lives at this very moment…

 

DEAR GOD: Your Love Is Boundless~

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The Boundless Love of God - Preachers Corner

The Boundless Love of God

The essence of God’s love is captured in the relationship between the Father and the Son, a love that extends to all His children. This amazing great love is not merely an emotion, but an active force that has been demonstrated throughout history and recorded in the Scriptures. It extends into the streaming years of generations after generation!

God’s Love for His Son

The love of God for His Son, Jesus Christ, is profound and eternal. In Matthew 3:17, as Jesus was baptized, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This declaration not only affirms the special relationship between the Father and the Son but also sets the foundation for the love that would be extended to humanity. It is the quintessential and all-consuming love He offers every single day to ALL of His children. And to those who love Him, His provisions and blessings are endless, and beyond the scope of all human understanding!

God’s Love for His Children

God’s love for His children is vividly portrayed in the sacrifice of His Son. Romans 5:8 states, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This sacrificial love is the cornerstone of Christian faith, illustrating that God’s love is unconditional and available to all who believe. Anyone and everyone has an ‘open invitation’ to experience and be a part of the body of Christ, and guided by the Holy Spirit that dwells within all His believers!

The Bible Depicts The Support God’s Love

The Bible is replete with verses that testify to God’s love. John 3:16 is perhaps the most well-known, declaring, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This verse encapsulates the breadth and depth of God’s love, emphasizing its sacrificial nature and the promise of eternal life.

Another powerful verse is 1 John 4:16, which says, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” This verse not only identifies God as love itself but also invites us to dwell in that love, assuring us of His constant Presence. Brings to us full confidence and assurance to the Presence of His Spirit. We are able to withstand and pursue things we cannot do otherwise. It is because of His love and faithful promises, we are able to LIVE LIFE!

Conclusion

The love of God is a theme that runs deep and wide through the intricate mosaic themes of Christian theology. It is a love that knows no bounds. A love that forgives and redeems. A love that sustains and nurtures. As children of God, we are the blessed recipients, although – NOT worthy- of this magnificent love, a love that calls us to live in harmony with one another and with our Creator, our King of kings, and LORD of lord, our Almighty and Loving Father, God!

 “Father, I wish to thank You for Your great love for me, You have shown me the full extent of this love in the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May I dwell in Your love, and extend it to others, living as a true reflection of Your grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen”

May this devotional resonate with the depth of God’s love He has for all of His children.  

DEAR GOD: Here I am For You Not The World~

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Alleluia to the Lamb by Kim Coleman - YouTube

 Corinthians 6:14-18 ESV 

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, “I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore, go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.”

 

Go out and separate from them, “says the LORD.” Did you ever take the time to realize what that means? Today in this vastly unstable and impure world, it can apply to almost all we encounter on a daily basis. God is telling us to be an example and set forth on the right path and establish ourselves as followers in all we do and say. Although we are in the world, we are not “of the world” and all it enforces in terms of immorality and salaciousness.

We are to be different and that is not to say, “high and mighty” because NO ONE is. There is only One pure and Mighty One, and that is the LORD.  What we need to do is be on guard, don’t take interest in superficial things or things of ill gotten measures in entertainment or otherwise, but in things of godly nature.

We are not to “repel” and think we are better than others, again we are not. We are to present our light to those we encounter and to represent Christ in all we do, say, think, and feel.

Eventually things that are not godly or pure will be like “poison to your soul” and you will shrink away from it. Things that are foul and unsightly and vulgar, will be like an electric shock to your soul. As we get deeper into a relationship with the LORD and we connect our spirit with His Spirit more intimately, we become less enamored of the world, but more enamored of Him and His ways. It’s a natural transformation.

Today, as you go out and do what you need to do…shine your light, stand up and be a faithful follower and be an example to others of what a Christian is all about.

“Father, may I do all according to Your will today, may I be a humble servant and example of Your light, and may I never stray from Your Word, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: I’m Listening—

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Listening To God - YouTube

The “voice” of the Lord is clear and apparent to those who “hear” it.  It’s a sheer delight to serve the Lord in all facets of our lives.  When we commit ourselves to Him, our paths become a vestige of honor to Him and all that it applies.  His voice reverberates to those with ears to hear, consider these very words: “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established…” Proverbs, 16:3 (NKJV). 

How do we commit our works to the Lord? There are many ways to do so.  Do not merely ask Him to bless what we’ve already done…Instead, commit ourselves and our plans to Him before, during, and after we have done our work. The trust, the commitment and the acknowledgement are all forefronts to our vital plan.  His ways, His thoughts, His actions…translate to “ask Him, trust Him, embrace Him, and acknowledge Him.”  When you do so consequences of all good things will transpire.

Consider a “budding rose.”  The bud is tiny at first.  Eventually, through care, love, and commitment it grows into a beautiful thing… much like our love and relationship with the Lord.  The more effort and time we put into the Lord, the more significant it becomes.  The deeper and more profound it gets.

But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8 (NKJV)

As our Father, God always will act on our behalf.   He acts for our benefit in ways that childlike minds cannot always understand.  As our potter, He ultimately molds us, and shapes us in ways that sometimes will hurt.  But always He deals with us in love.

Take a moment to think about past decisions you’ve made, on your own without the Father’s help or guidance.  How did it work out?  Usually without His voice, or counsel if you will, things usually don’t go the way we’d like.  When we take the time to talk with Him, listen to His voice, and bring Him into the equation of our life the outcome will benefit us.  We may not see it at first, because He sees way down the road.  He sees ALL things before its fruition, and so He knows what is best for us way before we even realize it. We may take years to realize it was good.  Therefore, don’t despair if things don’t happen according to your will.  Remember, His will…not ours.  His plans are perfect, our plans are anything but.  We may be puffed up and think we know what’s best for ourselves.  We need to be humble, and bow to His excellent works…and listen and adhere accordingly.

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it…1 Corinthians 9:24 (NKJV).

We can accomplish much in life we don’t have a clear purpose and mission in mind.  The only way to consistency is through the Lord.  We need to take practice in all things, through Him.  Each time we accomplish something we draw higher and nearer to God and our purpose that He has for us.  Our works, our plans, through His alone.  We need to establish our mission in life, through Him.  His voice, His ways, and production will be overflowing in all good things.

Now these things became our examples…Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition…1 Corinthians 106:11 (NKJV).

Everything in the Scripture exists for our example, warning and admonition.  We should note what God’s people did in the past and how God reacted to them in order to move ahead in our own walk of faith.

When we live for God, all things connect in and outside of our very existence.  All things lead to peace and a transitional platitude of higher aspirations in and of Christ.  To hear His voice is to know peace.

To abide by Him is to know love.  To work for Him is to obtain a chiseled image in Christ, that reflects Christ as we uphold His light and shine our own light in His name. Bear witness in all things for Him and accept His will and plans.

Ssh…Listen closely…Do you hear His voice?

“Father, may I do all according to Your will now and always, as our New Year commences, may I grow even deeper in spirituality and resolve to do even more in Jesus’ glorious and powerful name, Amen.”

When His candle shined upon my head, and when by his light I walked through darkness–Job 29:3 (KJV).

 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men–Proverbs 22:29 (KJV).

 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe–
John 1:7 (KJV).