grace

DEAR GOD: May I Heed Your Word In All I Do & Say~

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MCF Life Church: God is in control

Commentary on Anger

Anger is an intense emotion that can sometimes feel overpowering, leading us to act in ways we might later regret. For Christians, harboring and expressing anger inappropriately can be particularly damaging to our spiritual well-being and our relationships with others and with God.

Scripture reminds us of the dangers of anger:

  • Ephesians 4:26-27: “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” This passage acknowledges that while anger itself is a natural emotion, allowing it to fester can open the door to sin and discord.
  • James 1:19-20: “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” These verses emphasize the importance of patience and self-control, highlighting that human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.

Anger, if not managed properly, can poison our hearts and minds. It can lead to bitterness, resentment, and a breakdown in relationships. In the context of Christian faith, anger can distance us from God’s love and hinder our ability to reflect His grace and compassion to others.

Why Anger is Harmful to Christian Souls:

  1. It Disrupts Peace: Anger disrupts the peace within us and in our relationships. It creates an environment where forgiveness and reconciliation become difficult.
  2. It Blocks Spiritual Growth: Holding onto anger can create a barrier between us and God, preventing us from experiencing His fullness and growing in our faith.
  3. It Misrepresents Christ: As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His love and patience. Allowing anger to control us misrepresents His teachings and character.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I typically respond when I feel anger rising within me?
  2. In what ways can I seek God’s help to manage my anger more effectively?
  3. How can I use moments of anger as opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection?

Moral Takeaways

  • Seek Peace: Strive to resolve conflicts peacefully and quickly, avoiding the trap of holding onto anger.
  • Practice Patience: Develop patience and self-control, remembering that anger can cloud judgment and hinder righteous actions.
  • Embrace Forgiveness: Embrace forgiveness as a means to release anger and restore harmony in relationships.

Supportive Scriptures (KJV)

  • Proverbs 14:29: “He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.”
  • Colossians 3:8: “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”
  • Psalm 37:8: “Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.”

Prayer

 “LORD-We come before You with hearts that seek peace and understanding. Help us to manage our anger and turn to You for guidance in moments of frustration. Grant us the patience and wisdom to respond with love and grace, reflecting Your character in all that we do. Teach us to forgive quickly and wholeheartedly, just as You have forgiven us. May Your peace fill our hearts and minds, guiding us in every interaction. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Blessing for the Reader

May the Lord bless you with a heart of peace and understanding, freeing you from the chains of anger. May His love guide your actions and thoughts, leading you to live in harmony with others. May you experience the fullness of His grace and the joy of His presence in your life. Amen.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: We Are Victorious Through You LORD~

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Bible Study - Victorious Christian Life

1 John 4:4 (ESV): “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

This powerful verse from the Apostle John reminds us of the profound truth of God’s indwelling presence in our lives. It speaks of the immeasurable strength and victory we have through Christ, who resides within us, surpassing any worldly challenges or adversaries we may face.

The Greater One Within Us

Faith and Assurance in Biblical Times
In the early Christian era, believers faced significant persecution and opposition from both religious and governmental authorities. Despite these external pressures, the early Christians held onto their faith with an unwavering assurance that the Holy Spirit within them was far greater than any force in the world. This conviction empowered them to endure trials, spread the gospel, and live boldly for Christ.

Faith in Today’s World
Fast forward to today, and although the nature of our challenges has evolved, the underlying principle remains the same. Christians around the world face various forms of opposition—be it social, political, or personal. The struggle for faithfulness and truth can be daunting in a world that often opposes biblical values. Yet, the promise of God’s greater presence within us holds as true today as it did in the early church.

The Power of the Indwelling Spirit
Understanding that the One who is in us is greater than the one in the world brings immense comfort and strength. It assures us that we are not fighting our battles alone; the Holy Spirit empowers us with divine strength, wisdom, and courage. This presence means that no matter the adversity we face, we can stand firm and confident, knowing that God’s power within us is greater than any external force.

  • Reflective Questions
    How does recognizing the greater presence of God within me influence my approach to challenges?
  • In what areas of my life can I rely more on the Holy Spirit’s strength rather than my own?
  • How can I encourage others to remember and rely on the greater One within them?
  • What steps can I take to deepen my relationship with God and be more attuned to His Spirit?
  • How do I respond to worldly pressures, and how can I draw strength from the assurance that God is greater?

Moral Takeaways
Divine Strength: Trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome challenges and temptations.

Faithfulness: Remain steadfast in your faith, knowing that God’s presence within you surpasses any opposition.

Encouragement: Be a source of encouragement to others, reminding them of the greater power that resides within them.

Pondering Thoughts of Faith
Reflecting on the indwelling of the Holy Spirit should inspire profound gratitude and a deepened faith. It’s a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles. With God’s Spirit living in us, we have access to an unending source of strength, wisdom, and love. This knowledge should embolden us to face each day with courage and hope, knowing that we are empowered by the Creator Himself.

Prayer “LORD -thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit residing within us. Help us to remember and rely on Your greater presence in our lives, especially during times of challenge and opposition. Strengthen our faith and courage, that we may stand firm in Your truth and love. Guide us to be a light to those around us, reminding them of Your power and presence. May we find comfort and assurance in knowing that You, the greater One, are always with us, empowering us to overcome any obstacle. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
Romans 8:31 (ESV): “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord’s presence within you fill your heart with peace and strength. Trust in the greater One who resides in you, and let His power guide you through every challenge. May you be a beacon of His love and grace, bringing hope and encouragement to all around you.

God Bless You All~

God's Grace Provides Victory in Christ | Love Worth Finding Ministries

 

DEAR GOD: Your Promises & Presence Is My Salvation~

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Secured in the Promise of Salvation | by Dennis Lastimoso | Anchored In ...

 

  “Cleanse me, Lord, and I shall be clean; heal me, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved.”
Jeremiah 17:14 (ESV)

 

This verse encapsulates a powerful and personal cry for God’s intervention. It acknowledges
God’s ultimate power and authority in our lives, recognizing that true healing, cleansing, and
salvation come only from Him. This plea is deeply personal, a direct conversation with the Lord,
expressing trust and dependence on His divine ability to restore us in every way.

In our daily lives, we encounter numerous challenges that require us to seek God’s cleansing,
healing, and saving power. Whether it is physical illness, spiritual struggles, or emotional
turmoil, this verse reminds us to turn to God first and foremost. It reflects a profound
understanding that our human efforts are insufficient without divine intervention.
By seeking God’s help, we acknowledge His sovereignty and our need for His grace.

Reflective Questions:

How often do we turn to God first when faced with challenges,
seeking His healing and cleansing?

In what ways can we cultivate a deeper trust in God’s power to save and restore us?

How does recognizing God’s authority over our healing and salvation change our approach to
life’s difficulties?

Moral Takeaways:

Dependence on God: Recognize that true healing and salvation come from God alone.
Trust in His power to cleanse, heal, and save you.

Sincere Prayer: Cultivate a habit of sincere, heartfelt prayer, turning to God with your deepest
needs and trusting Him to provide.

Praise and Gratitude: Always remember to praise and thank God for His intervention in your life, acknowledging His role as your healer and savior.

Supporting Scriptures:

Psalm 103:23 (ESV): “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,”

Emphasizes God’s ability to heal and forgive, reminding us to be grateful for His benefits.

Isaiah 53:5 (ESV): “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our 
iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are 
healed.”

Highlights the healing power of Christ’s sacrifice, affirming our faith in His ability to heal.

Prayer:

“Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts full of trust and hope. Cleanse us, Lord, and
we shall be clean. Heal us, and we shall be healed. Save us, and we shall be saved. We acknowledge your power and grace, and we turn to you for all our needs. Help us to rely on you completely and to seek your intervention in every aspect of our lives. Fill us with your peace and
strength, and guide us in your ways. Thank you for being our healer and savior.  In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

Psalm 46:1 (ESV): “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Blessing:

May the Lord’s cleansing, healing, and saving power be upon you today and always. May you find strength and comfort in His presence, and may His grace fill your heart with peace. Trust in His unfailing love and walk confidently in His light, knowing He is your ever-present help.

God Bless You All~

 

DEAR GOD: Your Grace Is Sufficient & Appreciated~

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God’s Grace is Sufficient – First Baptist RockportBut grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
Ephesian 4:17 (ESV)

Commentary

This verse from Ephesians speaks to the profound and personal nature of the grace we receive from Christ. It highlights that grace is certainly not a one size fits all gift. Instead, it is uniquely tailored to each individual according to the LORD Jesus Christ’s infinite wisdom and love. This grace empowers us to fulfill our specific roles that were designed by the Master’s own hands. He equips us with the abilities and strength needed to serve and build up the church.

In today’s world, where comparison and competition can often overshadow our sense of self worth, this verse reminds us that each person is valued and gifted in their own way, according to the LORD’s design and purpose and will.

 Reflective Questions:

  • How have you experienced the unique grace that Christ has given you in
    your life?

  • In what ways can you use your God given gifts to serve others and build up the church?

  • How can understanding that each person receives grace according to Christ’s
    measure help you to appreciate and support others’ gifts?

Moral Takeaways:

  • Value Your Unique Gifts: Recognize and appreciate the unique gifts and grace
    given to you by Christ. Use them to serve and uplift others.

  • Avoid Comparison: Understand that grace is individually tailored and avoid comparing your gifts and grace to others.

  • Encourage Others: Support and encourage others in their unique gifts,
    recognizing that each person has a valuable role to play in the body of Christ.

Supporting Scriptures:

  1. Romans 12:6 (ESV): “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,
    let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;”

    • Reinforces the idea that our gifts differ according to the grace given to us
      and should be used accordingly.

  2. 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as
    good stewards of God’s varied grace:”

    • Encourages us to use our unique gifts to serve one another, reflecting God’s
      diverse grace.

Prayer:

“Heavenly Father, we thank you for the unique grace you have given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Help us to recognize and value the gifts you have bestowed upon us. Teach us to use these gifts to serve others and to build up your church. May we avoid the trap of comparison and instead, encourage and support one another in our unique callings. Guide us in your wisdom and love, that we may be good stewards of your varied grace, in Jesus’ name – Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

2 Corinthians 9:8 (ESV): “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that 
having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”

Blessing:

May you be blessed with the awareness of the unique grace that Christ has given you. May you find joy and purpose in using your gifts to serve others, and may you be filled with peace, knowing that you are valued and loved by God. Walk in His grace and be a light to those around you, each day for all the days and beyond.

God Bless You All~

Illustration of 2 Corinthians 12:9 — "My grace is sufficient for thee ...

DEAR GOD: Your Mercy & Love Is Life Sustaining~

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Embracing God’s Love Through Mercy and Forgiveness

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:12-13 (NLT)

 

In Colossians 3:12-13, we are reminded of the profound love God has for us and the virtues we are called to embody as His chosen people. This passage encourages us to clothe ourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. It also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, mirroring the forgiveness we have received from the Lord.

Supportive Scriptures

  • Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
  • Matthew 6:14-15: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
  • 1 Peter 3:8: “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”

Moral Takeaways

  1. Tenderhearted Mercy: We are called to show compassion and empathy towards others, understanding their struggles and offering support.
  2. Kindness: Acts of kindness, no matter how small, reflect God’s love and can have a profound impact on those around us.
  3. Humility: Recognizing our own imperfections helps us to be more forgiving and less judgmental.
  4. Gentleness and Patience: These virtues help us to navigate conflicts and misunderstandings with grace and understanding.
  5. Forgiveness: Forgiving others is not just a suggestion but a command that reflects the forgiveness we have received from God.

Scenarios in Today’s World

  • Workplace Conflicts: Imagine a colleague who consistently undermines your efforts. Instead of harboring resentment, approach them with kindness and seek to understand their perspective. This can lead to a more harmonious work environment.
  • Family Disputes: Family gatherings can sometimes bring up old wounds. Choosing to forgive and let go of past grievances can heal relationships and bring peace.
  • Social Media Interactions: In the age of digital communication, misunderstandings are common. Responding with gentleness and patience rather than anger can defuse potential conflicts.

What God Expects from Christians

God expects us to be reflections of His love and grace in the world. By embodying these virtues, we become living testimonies of His transformative power. Our actions and attitudes should draw others towards the love of Christ.

Reflective Questions

  1. Are there areas in my life where I struggle to show mercy and kindness?
  2. How can I practice humility in my daily interactions?
  3. Is there someone I need to forgive, and what steps can I take towards forgiveness?
  4. How can I cultivate patience and gentleness in challenging situations?

Prayer

“Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing us to be Your holy people. Help us to clothe ourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Teach us to forgive others as You have forgiven us. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Thought and Scripture

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15

 May the Lord bless you
    and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
    and be gracious to you.
 May the Lord show you His favor
    and give you His peace.’

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DEAR GOD: You Alone Are LORD & Creator Of All~

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God Created All Things 3 Items

Nehemiah 9:6 (ESV): “You are the Lord, You alone. You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them; and You preserve all of them; and the host of heaven worships You.”

Heartfelt Reflection:

As we meditate on Nehemiah 9:6, we are reminded of the grandeur and majesty of our Creator. This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of God’s sovereignty and His unparalleled power. It is a profound declaration of faith, acknowledging that God alone is the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth, and the Giver of life.

In our daily lives, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the challenges and distractions that surround us. Yet, this verse calls us to pause and reflect on the greatness of our God. It invites us to marvel at the vastness of the universe, the intricacies of creation, and the life-giving breath that sustains us. As devout Christians and followers of Christ, we are called to worship and adore Him, recognizing that everything we see and experience is a testament to His glory.

Supporting Scriptures:

Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
Our Master Creator – all things because of Him all we see is because of Him. Came into creation because of Him!

Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” –Again, everywhere we walk, look, and see – all because of Him and His Omnipotent and Sovereign power!

Colossians 1:16-17: “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” –We are created by Him for Him and all we do should be a reflection of His light and glory! He is the One that holds the blueprints of our life in His very hands!

Moral Takeaways:

  1. Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty: Recognize that God is the ultimate authority over all creation. He is the Creator and Sustainer of everything.
  2. Worship with Reverence: Approach God with a heart full of awe and reverence, knowing that He is worthy of all our praise and adoration.
  3. Trust in His Power: In times of uncertainty and difficulty, trust in God’s power and His ability to provide and sustain us.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How often do I take time to marvel at God’s creation and acknowledge His greatness?
  2. In what ways can I incorporate worship and adoration into my daily routine?
  3. How can I deepen my trust in God’s sovereignty, especially during challenging times?

 Unified Closing Prayer:

“LORD, Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and awe. You alone are the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth, and the Giver of life. We thank You for the beauty of Your creation and the life-giving breath that sustains us each day. Help us to recognize Your Sovereignty in all things and to worship You with reverence and adoration. Strengthen our faith and trust in Your power, especially during times of uncertainty and difficulty. May our lives be a testament to Your glory, and may we always seek to honor You in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Take Away:

Psalm 95:6: “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”

May this reflection on Nehemiah 9:6 inspire you to draw closer to God and to recognize His greatness in every aspect of your life. Blessings to you! 🙏

Your worst day with God will be better
than your best day without Him!
1 Corinthians 3:23 (KJV) | Bible verses kjv, Christian verses, Bible ...

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Comfort & Word~

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Isaiah 40:1 (ESV)
“Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.”

One thing we all need at times is comfort. We all need comfort at one time or another. We can expect comfort from the LORD in His Word and in His promises. That is a considerable amount of comfort to all those who follow Him.

We can have intense sadness at any given point in our lives, in many ways. Death, financial ruins, sickness, loss of family, friends due to misunderstandings, etc.  Then there is the elderly that seems to be a population that gets lost in the crevices of life. As those who are aging, they sense the loss of “youth” as it slips by in a subtle manner, yet reality adds up and we start to realize our limitations. We have to recognize that certain aspects of our functioning start waning.

But we adapt to our circumstances and go according to what we can accept for what our body and condition allows us at each passing point in time. We need to realize that time cannot work in “reverse” nor can the “aging process.” Those who are aging are aging no doubt about it. But we of faith have something “new” each day…the promises and His Word that brings life to our spirit and soul. The spirit remains young, and it is that spirit we need to hold onto as we navigate the world from whatever our age is.

All human life is temporary. All flesh is grass and flowers of the field. The grass will wither and the flower fades, but the Word of God stands forever (Isaiah 40:8). 

Again, successfully aging is fully accepting limitations, not giving up on life and doing what we can to keep our spiritual connection with the LORD and His Word. Following Him in obedience and compliance. And honoring Him all the days of our lives.

God comforts us through the good news of His Gospel and His saving Grace of our LORD Jesus Christ.  And that is this is the best kind of comfort that we could every received. His grace and His love are boundless and a veritable treasure that goes beyond anything we sustain or obtain here on earth. Amen!

Psalms 119:76: (KJV)
“Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.”

“LORD, may I always find comfort in Your Word, in Your love and in Your grace that sustain and maintains me all the days of my life, and beyond, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”