god’s will

DEAR GOD: Embracing Trials With Joy~

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Message: “Finding Joy in Trials” from Joe Bolduc | East Brandywine ...Count it all joy, my brothers,[a] when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.  James 1:2-4

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Embracing Trials with Joy

 In the book of James, we find a profound and challenging exhortation: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4). This passage invites us to adopt a counterintuitive perspective on life’s difficulties, encouraging us to see trials not as burdens, but as opportunities for growth and spiritual maturity.

Moral Views and Takeaways

  1. Joy in Adversity: The primary message of this verse is to find joy in the midst of trials. This joy is not a superficial happiness but a deep-seated contentment that comes from trusting in God’s purpose. It challenges us to shift our focus from the pain of the present to the potential for growth and transformation.
  2. Testing and Growth: Trials are described as tests of faith that produce steadfastness. This steadfastness, or perseverance, is essential for spiritual maturity. Just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, spiritual trials strengthen our faith, making us more resilient and steadfast in our walk with God.
  3. Completeness in Christ: The ultimate goal of enduring trials is to become “perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” This does not imply a state of flawlessness but rather a wholeness and maturity in Christ. It is through enduring and overcoming challenges that we become more like Christ, fully equipped for every good work.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I typically respond to trials and difficulties in my life? Do I see them as opportunities for growth or merely as obstacles?
  2. In what ways can I cultivate a deeper sense of joy and contentment, even in the midst of challenging circumstances?
  3. How can I support others who are going through trials, helping them to see the potential for growth and transformation?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Romans 5:3-4: “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
  • 1 Peter 1:6-7: “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
  • Philippians 4:4: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”

 “Dear Heavenly Father- we come before You with hearts open to Your wisdom and guidance. We thank You for the trials and challenges that come our way, knowing that they are opportunities for growth and transformation. Help us to find joy in the midst of adversity, trusting in Your perfect plan for our lives. Strengthen our faith and perseverance, that we may become mature and complete in Christ. Grant us the grace to support and encourage one another, reflecting Your love and compassion. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Handling Issues Today

As Christians, we are called to handle life’s issues with faith, hope, and love. In today’s world, this means:

  1. Trusting in God’s Sovereignty: Believing that God is in control and has a purpose for every trial we face.
  2. Seeking Community: Leaning on the support of fellow believers, sharing our burdens, and encouraging one another.
  3. Practicing Gratitude: Focusing on the blessings in our lives and maintaining a thankful heart, even in difficult times.
  4. Living Out Our Faith: Demonstrating our trust in God through our actions, showing love and compassion to those around us.

By embracing these principles, we can navigate the challenges of life with grace and steadfastness, growing ever closer to the image of Christ.

The Joy of Trials – Read the Bible

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: Seeking You In Prayer Daily~

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3 Views on Prayer: Which is the Most Biblical? - Bellator Christi

Finding Refuge in God

 Psalm 4 is a heartfelt cry from King David, expressing both his distress and unwavering trust in God. In these verses, we witness David’s dialogue with both God and his adversaries. Let’s dive into the richness of this psalm, as we see the meaning and intent of this Psalm to us as children of Christ!

1. David Talks to God (Psalm 4:1)

“Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.”

  • Passionate Prayer: David’s plea isn’t mere words; it’s a passionate cry for God’s attention. He acknowledges that his righteousness comes from God alone.
  • Past Mercy as Ground for Future Help: David reminds God of His past deliverance, trusting that God won’t abandon him now. Our prayers gain power when we remember God’s faithfulness.

2. David Talks to Men (Psalm 4:2-3)

“How long, O you sons of men, will you turn my glory to shame? How long will you love worthlessness and seek falsehood? Selah. But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly; the LORD will hear when I call to Him.”

  • Questioning the Ungodly: David challenges his adversaries. How long will they persist in their destructive ways? He invites them to abandon falsehood and find blessing.
  • God’s Divine Selection: David affirms that God sets apart the godly. Our identity as God’s chosen ones matters. When we align with His will, He hears our cries.

Moral Takeaway

God’s favor rests upon those who fear, love, and serve Him. We, too, can find solace in being set apart for His divine purposes. Let us embrace our identity as the godly. When we walk according to His will and purpose or our lives, all things work out eventually, because God’s plans are best for us. Even when we don’t feel that they are, we might not see the reason immediately – or ever in this lifetime. But suffice to say – God only wants what’s best for His children. All of them, irrespective of their race, sex, social status etc., – He loves us all!

As we go forward, we need to align with His Word, and be obedient and acquiesce to His will, as we humbly serve Him with all of our heart, mind, body and soul. We need to put Him first in ALL we do and all else is second. His ways. His will. His Word – always.

Reflective Question

How can you live out your faith today, knowing that you are set apart by God for His purposes?

Meditative Thoughts

  • God’s mercy sustains us.
  • Our righteousness is a gift from Him.
  • In distress, we find refuge in His presence.

Closing Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing us, setting us apart as Your beloved. May we walk in godliness, guided by Your grace. Grant us strength to withstand opposition, knowing that You hear our cries, and that You are continuously watching over us, in all we do, all the days of our lives, and may we humbly serve You fully today and into eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May this psalm resonate in your heart, reminding you of God’s unwavering love and protection as you go through each day of your lives!

 

Swachch Bharat

DEAR GOD: You Are Always Listening & Protecting Me~

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Is God Listening to My PrayersReflections on Psalm 34:6

Psalm 34:6 states, “This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.” This verse is a profound testament to the compassionate nature of God and His unwavering commitment to those in distress. He helps all who reach out to Him. When we seek Him in earnest, He responds to us – in His timing – and according to His will- but He will respond!

The Cry of the Poor Man

The “poor man” symbolizes all of humanity in its vulnerability and need for divine intervention. The act of crying out is a universal expression of seeking help, transcending cultural, linguistic, and temporal barriers. It is a raw and honest plea, born out of a place of desperation and sincerity.

His wisdom and grace extend to all of His children!

The Lord’s Response

The response of the Lord is immediate and all-encompassing. The phrase “heard him” is not merely an acknowledgment of the cry but an assurance that the plea has been received with empathy and attention. The Lord’s hearing is an active listening, one that leads to a transformative action—“saved him out of all his troubles.”

He is merciful and kind!

Salvation from Troubles

The salvation promised is not limited to physical deliverance but extends to our emotional and spiritual rescue. The “troubles” mentioned are not specified, which allows this verse to be a source of comfort for all people that are facing various challenges, whether they be financial hardship, illness, loss, or spiritual despair.  The LORD treats us equally and responds in kind – when we are faithful.

He is our amazing LORD!

Conclusion

Psalm 34:6 is a beacon of hope for the faithful. It reassures us that no cry goes unheard, and that salvation is not a distant dream but a present reality. It encourages us to maintain a posture of humility and dependence on God, who is always ready to extend His grace and mercy.  We we actively pursue Him with contrite and ready hearts, and with mouths that cry for Him, as we worship Him with all the glory that He is due – He will ultimately respond and hold us up with His right hand of righteousness – all the days of our lives.

He is a powerful God!

Psalm 34:6 -holds a powerful and significant message -and its relevance to the human experience. It serves as a reminder that in times of trouble, one can find solace and strength in the promises of the scriptures, and in His voice!

“Dear LORD- we come before You with humble hearts, echoing the cry of the poor man in Psalm 34:6. Lord, hear our prayers and deliver us from our troubles. Your Word promises salvation, not just in the life to come, but in the here and now. We ask for Your comforting Presence to envelop those who are calling out to You in their distress. May they feel Your love and peace, knowing that You are a God who listens and acts. Save us from our afflictions, be they of the body, mind, or spirit. Grant us the faith to trust in Your timing and Your ways. Help us to see Your hand at work in our lives, even when the path is clouded by uncertainty. We thank You for Your unfailing grace and for the assurance that no plea made in earnest is ever ignored. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

May this prayer bring comfort and hope to all who seek solace in the Lord’s embrace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Trusting In The Stillness~

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Waiting on God - YouTube~God’s Perfect Timing~ 

“Be still, and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10).

This powerful command invites us to pause, reflect, and acknowledge God’s Sovereignty over our lives. In a world that prizes speed and efficiency, waiting on God’s timing is always a profound act of faith. It requires us to relinquish control and trust in His will and His plans, even when it unfolds at a pace that challenges our human patience.

The Divine Schedule

The Bible is replete with verses that affirm God’s perfect timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1- “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” This verse reassures us that our lives are not a series of random events. Instead, they are perfectly planned and ordered by our Father above- and interwoven into our paths and life overall- where every thread has its appointed time to shine.

Similarly, Isaiah 40:31 encourages those who wait on the Lord to renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles. Waiting is not a passive state but an active engagement with faith, where we draw closer to God and gain new perspectives.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can embracing stillness enhance your relationship with God?
  • In what ways have you experienced the benefits of God’s timing in your life?

The Assurance of God’s Faithfulness

God’s promises are unwavering, and His faithfulness is timeless.  2 Peter 3:8 – “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” Our perception of time pales in comparison to God’s eternal viewpoint. He orchestrates events with precision, ensuring that His promises come to fruition at the perfect moment.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does understanding God’s view of time change your approach to waiting?
  • Can you recall a time when God’s timing differed from yours, yet the outcome was better than expected?

The Call to Action

While waiting on God, we are not called to mindless idleness. Galatians 6:9 exhorts us to not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Our waiting period is an opportunity to serve, grow, and prepare for the blessings that lie ahead. It is a time to embrace the LORD and His will and His love for us, knowing His plans for us to prosper are all part of the Divine outcome. (Jeremiah 29:11).

Reflection Questions:

  • What actions can you take during your waiting period to align with God’s will?
  • How can you encourage others who are struggling with waiting on God’s timing?

 

“My Father, in the stillness of Your presence, I seek understanding and patience. Teach me and Your children to trust in Your timing, for it is flawless and just. Help me and Your children to embrace the seasons of waiting as periods of growth and deepening faith. May I and all of Your children find strength in Your promises and joy in the journey towards Your plans for all of us,  In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

I invite you all to consider the beauty and wisdom in God’s timing, encouraging us to wait with faith and hope. May it inspire reflection and a deeper trust in the One who holds time in His hands, especially this day before “His resurrection and victory over death” Amen.

DEAR GOD: Guide Me Daily With Your Hands Of Love

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Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Is at Hand ...

The Guiding Hand of Unconditional Love

In the journey of life, amidst the tumult of uncertainty and the crossroads of decision-making, there exists a guiding light that transcends human understanding – the will of God. It is a concept deeply rooted in faith, a belief that there is a divine plan for each of us, crafted with the threads of unconditional love.

The Bible, a cornerstone of Christian faith, offers insight into this divine will through its verses. One such verse is Jeremiah 29:11, which says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This verse encapsulates the essence of God’s will – a promise of protection, prosperity, and a hopeful tomorrow.

God’s will is not a rigid path, but a fluid journey that adapts to the choices we make, always seeking our ultimate good. It is in the quiet whispers of our conscience, the serendipitous moments that seem more than mere coincidence, and the sense of peace that comes from making choices aligned with love and truth.

His unconditional love is the compass that guides us. It is unwavering, all-encompassing, and forgiving. It is the hand that holds us during our weakest moments and the voice that celebrates our triumphs. In a world where conditions and stipulations often taint love, God’s love remains pure, asking nothing in return but our willingness to accept it.

To live within the will of God is to choose a life of love, compassion, and kindness. It is to see others through the lens of grace and to act with the intention of bringing light into darkness. It is to trust in the journey, even when the destination is not in sight, and to believe that every step we take is a step towards a greater purpose.

In conclusion, the will of God for our lives is not a destination but a way of living. It is a path marked by His unconditional love, guiding us gently towards a future filled with hope. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we always be attuned to this divine guidance, finding comfort in the knowledge that we are never alone.

This should resonate with those of faith while it provides comfort in the knowledge of the Word of God.  It also provides a deeper reflection of God’s magnificence in the grand scheme of life overall. He is always with us and never ceases to care or watch over us. He knows what you’re thinking this very moment in time. And He knows the trials and tribulations you’ve gone through (with His help) and what is coming down the road. But the important thing to take away for life is the realization that He is in control. That is all it amounts to– God is ALWAYS in control.

As Jesus said, “Don’t worry about tomorrow, for today has its own troubles” and no amount of worrying or thinking about issues, whatever they may be, will change the outcome. Only God can do that. Because with God nothing is impossible.

Romans 5:8 – “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This verse highlights the unconditional nature of God’s love, demonstrating that His love is not contingent upon our actions or worthiness.

1 John 4:16 – “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 emphasizes that God is the embodiment of love and that by living in love, we live in God and experience His guidance.

These verses reinforce the message that God’s will for our lives is rooted in His love, which guides us and shapes our future with hope and purpose. Prayer, dedication, reflection, and obedience in His Word is the quintessential aspect of LIFE!

And CHRIST is LIFE – and He gives it freely and in abundance for those of us willing to believe that He is our Savior, and Son of God.

Have you accepted Him as your LORD and Savior? Are you in His Word daily? Do you recognize that He is in control of everything in this Universe and your life?

“Father, thank You for being in control of all things, I know that You have only the best plans for my life, and that You are with me always, help me to stay on course in Your Word, Your love, and Your commandments, each day of my life may I walk in abject humility toward You and others, and may I faithfully serve You all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: I Readily Submit To Your Will~

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Are You Submitting to God? | worldchallenge.org

God’s will and timing are two important aspects of the Christian faith. God has a perfect plan for each of His children, and He knows the best time to execute it. Sometimes, we may feel impatient or frustrated when we don’t see God’s will or timing in our lives. We may wonder why He is delaying or what He is waiting for. But the Bible assures us that God is always working for our good and His glory, and that He has a purpose for everything that happens in our lives.

The following verses are some of the many verses that can let us trust God’s will and His perfect timing:

Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” -This reminds us that God has a perfect timing for everything that happens in our lives. He knows when to give and when to take away, when to bless and when to test, when to open and when to close doors. We can trust that He always has a reason for every season in our lives, and that He will make everything beautiful in His own time.

Psalm 27:14: “Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” – This encourages us to wait patiently for God’s will and timing, and not to lose hope or courage. Waiting on God is not a passive or idle activity, but an active and faithful one. It means to seek Him, to obey Him, to worship Him, and to expect Him to act on our behalf. As we wait on God, He will strengthen our hearts and renew our spirits.

Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This assures us that God has a good and perfect will for our lives, and that He is in control of our destiny. He does not intend to harm us, but to bless us and give us hope. He has a future for us that is beyond our imagination, and He will fulfill His promises to us in His time and way.

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse teaches us to trust God’s will and timing, and not to rely on our own wisdom or understanding. We may not always understand why God does what He does, or when He does it, but we can trust that He knows what is best for us, and that He will guide us in the right direction. We can submit to His will and follow His lead, and He will make our paths straight and clear.

Some of my thoughts on God’s will and timing based on the above verses –God’s will and timing are not always the same as ours, but they are always better than ours. We may have our own plans and preferences, but God’s plans and purposes are higher and deeper than ours. He sees the big overall picture and the end results, whereas we only see the present and the partial.

He knows what we need and what we don’t, what will help us and what will hurt us, what will grow us and what will stunt us. He knows the best way and the best time to accomplish His will in our lives, and He will not be late or early, but right on time.

God’s will and timing are not always easy or comfortable, but they are always beneficial and rewarding. We may face challenges and difficulties, trials and temptations, delays and detours, as we follow God’s will and timing.

We may experience pain and sorrow, loss and grief, frustration and disappointment, as we wait for God’s will and timing. But we can be assured that God is working all things together for our good and His glory, and that He will not waste any of our experiences or emotions. He will use them to shape us, to teach us, to refine us, and to prepare us for His will and timing. He will reward us with His peace, His joy, His presence, and His promises, as we trust Him and obey Him.

God’s will and timing are not always clear or obvious, but they are always revealed and confirmed. We may not always know what God’s will and timing are for our lives, or how to discern them. We may have doubts and questions, confusion and uncertainty, as we seek God’s will and timing. But we can be confident that God will reveal and confirm His will and timing to us, as we seek Him with all our hearts, as we study His word, as we listen to His voice, as we follow His guidance, and as we consult His people.

The truth is -He will always make His will and timing known to us eventually. But we need to ask Him, as we knock on His door, and as we seek His face.

I hope these verses and thoughts have helped you to understand and appreciate God’s will and timing more. God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.

He is faithful and trustworthy, and He will accomplish His will and timing in your life, in His time, by His will, for His glory. God bless you- 😊

“Father, thank You for always looking out for me, for being faithful and loving me no matter what, thank You for Your perfect timing, and will for my life, may I always hear Your voice, submit to Your will and purpose for my life, and live according to Your Word and plans, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

Submit to God in All Situations – Better Life World

 

Amen!

DEAR GOD: Is It A Sin Wishing To Die?

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I’ll Forgive (feat. Becky Willard)Suzanne Hodson – Music From Suzanne

To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born,And a time to die; 
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NKJV)

I have known several people in my lifetime who have wished “to die” and prayed for death. Mainly in nursing homes, which was my entire career. My patients who were sick, riddled with excruciating pain were the ones most likely wishing for death.

Some screaming for it. And I’ve been in witness of others outside of the nursing home who have wished for death – and not from being ill, but from being lonely, bored, or depressed. All very sad – but not fatal in their physical sense – but spiritual sense.

Which brings me to what many Christians have asked – Is it a sin to pray to God for death?  Well -God has chosen to leave you here on this planet in order to accomplish something for Him. The scriptures remind us that God has determined the length of our days. –Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”  James 4:15 (NKJV)

We must recognize that it is His will and not ours when we die. We must be willing to submit to His plan for how long we live on this earth. God uses the difficult events of life to grow us and mature us spiritually. He uses these events in our lives to motivate us to seek Him with all our hearts.

When we know Jesus, we can readily accept the joy that comes from being in an intimate relationship with Him, and all that entails. Hearing His voice, listening with ears perked at all times, and steadfastly staying in His Word and adhering to it day and night, all the days of our lives. And when it’s over, it’s His call not ours.

With Jesus as your Lord, peace and joy will most definitely come to fruition -as you spend time in prayer and the scriptures, and dwell on Him. The following two examples are perfect verses to meditate and dwell upon as we seek His face wishing to grow closer still to Him.

I have inherited Your testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart-
Psalms 119:111 (NASB)

Those who love Your law have great peace- Psalms 119:165 (NASB)

As faithful Christians- we serve a Holy pure and loving God- who works all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). I would encourage you to ask God to reveal His will and purpose for you over the remaining days of your life, and readily accept His will, His timing, and His control in all areas of life, including when the time is to be called home.

God our mighty Father has a plan and purpose for your life. He has brought you here on this planet in order to accomplish things for Him. Scripture always reminds us that the LORD has determined the length of our days. And until that time and length has expired – it won’t happen until it happens by God’s hands alone.

I therefore leave you to answer the question yourself after praying and spending time with the LORD – Is it a sin to pray for death? After reading scripture and asking for wisdom I think you will find your answers – Amen.

“Father, I pray for those who are in the grips of depression, grief, loneliness, and longing for death, may they be touched in spirit and heart by Your hands of mercy and grace, may they come ‘alive’ in the Presence of Your Spirit and willingly submit to Your will and purpose for their lives, and may they survive in a mode of optimism knowing if they believe, they shall live forever, all to all things there is a purpose, 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).

DEAR GOD: I AM INFUSED BY YOUR SPIRIT~

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Pin on (Romans 12:2) Do not be conformed to this world, but be ...

 

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.”