honoring God

DEAR GOD: Thank You For The Unfathomable Love of Christ~

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John 15:13 (KJV) “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Christ’s Love

Christ’s love is the purest, most selfless form of love known to humanity. John 15:13 captures this essence perfectly—Jesus not only preached about love but demonstrated it through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. His willingness to lay down His life for us is the epitome of unconditional love, a love that transcends all human understanding.

Reflective Questions

  • How do we define love in our everyday lives, and how does it compare to the love Christ demonstrated?
  • Are we willing to make sacrifices for others, even when it is inconvenient or difficult?
  • How does the realization of Christ’s love influence the way we interact with others?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Romans 5:8 (KJV): “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
  • Ephesians 3:18-19 (KJV): “May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.”
  • 1 John 4:10 (KJV): “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”

Biblical Overview

Throughout the Bible, God’s love is a central theme. From the Old Testament, where God’s covenant love is evident in His relationship with Israel, to the New Testament, where Jesus Christ personifies Divine love, the narrative of the Bible is one of a God who loves unconditionally and sacrificially. Christ’s love is the fulfillment of God’s promise to humanity—a love that restores, redeems, and reconciles.

Analysis

Christ’s love is multifaceted, encompassing various dimensions:

  • Unconditional Love: Jesus loves us not based on our merits but purely out of His grace.
  • Sacrificial Love: The cross is the ultimate symbol of sacrificial love, where Jesus gave His life for our salvation.
  • Transformative Love: Christ’s love transforms us from within, making us new creations in Him.
  • Enduring Love: His love is eternal and unwavering, offering hope and assurance in every circumstance.

Christians Today

For Christians today, Christ’s love is a model to emulate. It challenges us to love others selflessly, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to serve as Christ served. This love is not just a feeling but an active, living expression of faith that influences our actions and relationships. In a world that often promotes self-interest, Christ’s love calls us to a higher standard of compassion, empathy, and service.

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the boundless love You have shown us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to grasp the depth of this love and let it transform our hearts and minds. May we reflect Christ’s love in our daily lives, loving others selflessly and sacrificially. Strengthen us to follow the example of Jesus, serving with humility and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Blessings for Readers

May the love of Christ fill your hearts with peace and joy. May you experience His presence in your life and be a beacon of His love to those around you. May His grace abound in all your endeavors, and may His love guide and sustain you always.

Scripture to Ponder

1 John 4:16 (KJV) “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: A Song Of Joy And Grace In My Heart~

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A Song of Joy and Grace In My Heart

In days of light and days of night, We lift our praise unto the height. With hearts that sing and voices raise, We glorify the LORD, our praise.

“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” – Philippians 4:4

With steadfast love and boundless grace, His light doth shine upon our face. In valleys deep and mountains high, The LORD our God is always nigh.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1

With every breath and every thought, Thy wondrous works our hands have wrought. In humble prayer and joyful song, We worship thee, to whom we belong.

“I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalm 34:1

Reflective Questions – Thoughts for the Day

  1. In what ways can you experience and express the joy of the LORD in your daily life?
  2. How can you demonstrate Christ’s love and grace to those around you, both inwardly and outwardly?
  3. Are there areas in your life where you can trust more in God’s guidance and provision?
  4. How can you deepen your relationship with Christ through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word?

Exalting and Following Him Inwardly and Outwardly

To exalt the LORD inwardly, we must cultivate a heart of gratitude and humility. This begins with daily meditation on His Word, allowing scripture to permeate our thoughts and guide our actions. Prayer is a vital practice, through which we open our hearts to God, share our burdens, and seek His wisdom and grace. In times of both joy and trial, we should always turn to Him, acknowledging His sovereignty and love.

Inward transformation also requires self-examination and repentance. We must be honest about our weaknesses and sins, seeking God’s forgiveness and striving to align our lives more closely with His will. As we grow in our relationship with Christ, we become more attuned to His presence and guidance, experiencing a deeper sense of peace and purpose.

Exalting God outwardly involves living out our faith in tangible ways. This means loving our neighbors as ourselves, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Our actions should reflect Christ’s love and grace, serving as a testimony to others. We can engage in acts of service, whether through volunteering, helping those in need, or simply being a source of encouragement and support to those around us.

Additionally, we can use our talents and resources to further God’s kingdom. This might involve participating in church activities, supporting mission work, or using our skills to create and share uplifting and inspiring content. By doing so, we become instruments of God’s love and truth in the world.

  Prayer and Blessings

“LORD-Heavenly Father, we have hearts full of gratitude and praise. Teach us to number our days and to seek Your wisdom in all things. Fill us with Your joy and grace, that we may shine Your light in this world. Guide our steps, strengthen our faith, and help us to love and follow Christ more deeply each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May the LORD bless you and keep you; may His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May His presence bring you peace and comfort now and always.  

Living in the Joy of the Lord - Know HIS Ways

 

DEAR GOD: Your “Word” is “My World” –

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1 John 3:9 (KJV): “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.”

This profound verse speaks to the transformative power of being born of God. John emphasizes that those who are truly born of God do not continue in a lifestyle of sin. The “seed” mentioned here refers to the divine nature and influence of God that remains in the believer, preventing them from being dominated by sin.

Understanding the Verse in Biblical Times

In the early Christian era, this message was particularly powerful. New believers were emerging from a diverse array of backgrounds, many from pagan practices where sin was normalized and intertwined with daily life. The idea of being “born of God” signified a radical transformation—becoming part of a new family where God’s righteousness was the guiding principle. For these early Christians, John’s message reinforced the distinction between their former lives and their new identity in Christ. The apostolic teachings focused on living a life that reflected the holiness and purity of God, which was a stark contrast to the surrounding culture.

Relevance to Modern Christians

Today, the context has changed, but the core message remains the same. Being “born of God” means undergoing a transformation that affects every aspect of our lives. Modern Christians face different challenges but are still called to live lives that reflect God’s holiness. The struggle against sin is ongoing, but the assurance is that God’s seed—His divine influence—remains in us, empowering us to overcome sin.

In today’s world, this verse challenges us to examine our lives and ensure that our actions reflect our new identity in Christ. It is a call to live authentically, letting our transformed nature shine through in every aspect of our lives.

Supportive Scriptures

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV): “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Galatians 2:20 (KJV): “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

Romans 6:6 (KJV): “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.”

Moral Takeaways

  • Transformation: Being born of God brings about a profound transformation that changes our nature and our actions.
  • Divine Influence: God’s seed remains in us, empowering us to resist sin and live righteous lives.
  • Authentic Living: Our new identity in Christ calls us to live authentically, reflecting God’s holiness in all we do.

Reflective Questions

  • How has my life changed since being born of God?
  • In what areas of my life do I still struggle with sin, and how can I rely on God’s power to overcome it?
  • What practical steps can I take to ensure that my actions reflect my new identity in Christ?
  • How can I encourage and support others in their journey of transformation and growth in Christ?
  • How can I deepen my relationship with God and allow His seed to flourish in my life?

 “LORD my King- we are forever thanking You for the transformative power of being born of You. Help us to live lives that reflect Your holiness and righteousness. Strengthen us to resist sin and to rely on Your divine influence in every aspect of our lives. Lord, may Your seed remain in us, guiding our actions and thoughts. Transform us daily to be more like Christ and help us to encourage others in their journey with You. Fill our hearts with Your love and grace, empowering us to live authentically as Your children. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Philippians 1:6 (KJV): “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

Blessing for the Readers

May the transformative power of being born of God fill your heart with peace and strength. Trust in His divine influence to guide you and empower you to live a life that reflects His holiness. May your journey be enriched with His Presence, and may His love shine through you in all that you do, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: Your Majestic Creation & Love

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The Latter Days: The God of Love

The Majesty of God’s Creation

“So that those who dwell at the ends of the earth are in awe at your signs. You make the going out of the morning and the evening to shout for joy.” – Psalm 65:8

This verse from Psalm 65 is a profound reminder of the Omnipresence and Majesty of God’s creation. It speaks to the universal reach of His wonders, touching the hearts of people from every corner of the earth. The imagery of the morning and evening shouting for joy encapsulates the continuous cycle of God’s glory and the perpetual praise that His creation offers.

Heartfelt Praise and Glory to the Lord

In our daily lives, it is easy to become consumed by the mundane and overlook the extraordinary beauty that surrounds us. Yet, this verse calls us to pause and reflect on the signs of God’s Presence in our world. From the vibrant hues of a sunrise to the serene calm of a sunset, each day begins and ends with a testament to His greatness. These moments are not just natural phenomena; they are divine reminders of God’s love and power.

Moral Thoughts and Christianity Today

In today’s world, Christianity faces numerous challenges. The secularization of society often leads to a diminished recognition of God’s hand in our lives. However, this verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith. It reminds us that despite the perils and evils that abound, God’s signs are ever-present, offering hope and reassurance. As Christians, we are called to be a reflection of His light, radiating the joy and awe that God’s creation inspires.

The Non-Secular World and Its Perils

The non-secular world is fraught with temptations and distractions that can lead us away from God’s path. Materialism, moral relativism, and the pursuit of worldly pleasures often overshadow the spiritual truths that sustain us. Yet, Psalm 65:8 serves as a powerful counterpoint to these influences. It calls us to recognize the divine in the everyday and to find joy in the simple, yet profound, manifestations of God’s Presence.

Meditative Thoughts and Takeaways

As we meditate on this verse, let us consider the following reflective questions:

  • How often do we take the time to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation?
  • In what ways can we incorporate moments of gratitude and awe into our daily routines?
  • How can we be more mindful of God’s signs in our lives and share that awareness with others?

Supporting Scripture

To further enrich our reflection, let us consider these supporting scriptures:

  • Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
  • Romans 1:20: “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”
  • Isaiah 40:26: “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.”

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your magnificent creation. From the rising of the sun to its setting, Your glory is proclaimed across the earth. We thank You for the beauty and wonder that You have woven into every corner of our world. Help us to see Your hand in all things and to find joy in the simple, yet profound, moments of our daily lives. Strengthen our faith and fill our hearts with gratitude. May we always be mindful of Your presence and Your love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought

As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to be more mindful of His Divine beauty that surrounds us. Each sunrise and sunset are a reminder of God’s unwavering Presence and love. By taking moments to appreciate these signs, we can cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and joy, allowing our faith to shine brightly in a world that often overlooks the sacred. Let us carry this awareness with us, sharing the wonder of God’s creation with others and finding strength in His eternal glory.

50 Bible Verses About Love - From God's Heart to Yours!

 

DEAR GOD: I Live For You- And I Live Forever With You~

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Genesis – Chapters 12-24 – In The Beginning

Living and Dying Unto the Lord

Romans 14:8, “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s,” is a profound declaration of faith and belonging. This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian life and death, emphasizing that our existence, in all its forms, is dedicated to God. This essay will explore the depth of this verse, supported by other scriptures, moral thoughts, meditative takeaways, reflective questions, and a powerful closing prayer.

Understanding Romans 14:8

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, addresses the Christian community’s diverse practices and beliefs. Romans 14:8is a reminder that our lives are not our own; they belong to the Lord. This verse reassures believers that their purpose, whether in life or death, is to serve and honor God.

Supportive Scriptures

  1. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (KJV): “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
  2. Philippians 1:21 (ESV): “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
  3. Galatians 2:20 (KJV): “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

These scriptures reinforce the idea that our lives are dedicated to God, and our actions should reflect His glory.

Moral Thoughts

Living unto the Lord means that every aspect of our lives should be a testament to our faith. Our actions, words, and thoughts should align with God’s will. This commitment requires us to live with integrity, compassion, and humility. It also means that we should not fear death, as it is merely a transition to our beautiful blissful Eternal life with God.

Meditative Takeaways

  1. Purpose in Life and Death: Reflect on the purpose God has for you in both life and death. How can you live each day in a way that honors Him?
  2. Trust in God’s Plan: Trust that God’s plan for your life is perfect, even when it includes suffering or challenges.
  3. Eternal Perspective: Maintain an eternal perspective, understanding that our time on earth is temporary, but our relationship with God is everlasting.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I live my daily life in a way that glorifies God?
  2. What fears do I have about death, and how can I trust God more in this area?
  3. In what ways can I serve others to reflect God’s love and grace?

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 “Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging that our lives are in Your hands. Whether we live or die, we belong to You. Help us to live each day with purpose, honoring You in all that we do. Give us the strength to face challenges with faith and the courage to trust in Your perfect plan. May our lives be a testament to Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thoughts for the Day

  • Live each day with the intention of glorifying God.
  • Trust in God’s plan, even when it is difficult to understand.
  • Remember that your life is a gift from God-use it to serve Him and others.

May this reflection on Romans 14:8 inspire you to live a life dedicated to the Lord, filled with faith, hope, and love.

A life without God is a life not worth living. It is just a number of ...

DEAR GOD: Your Children Need YOU and YOU Alone!~

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The Lord's Prayer Is Meant to Be Lived | Flipboard

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.”

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Reflecting on 2 Chronicles 7:14 in Today’s World

 In a world often marked by division, conflict, and moral decay, the words of 2 Chronicles 7:14 resonate with profound urgency. This verse calls us to humility, prayer, and repentance, promising divine forgiveness and healing. It is a beacon of hope, reminding us that transformation begins with each of us turning towards God.

 The Call to Humility and Prayer

2 Chronicles 7:14 is a timeless reminder of God’s willingness to forgive and heal. It begins with a call to humility, a virtue that seems increasingly rare in our self-centered society. Humility requires us to acknowledge our limitations and our need for God’s guidance. It is the first step towards genuine repentance and transformation.

In today’s world, where pride and self-reliance are often celebrated, this call to humility is countercultural. Yet, it is precisely this humility that can lead to healing. When we humble ourselves, we open our hearts to God’s grace and wisdom, allowing Him to work through us to bring about change.

Seeking God’s Face

The verse also urges us to “seek my face,” which means to earnestly pursue a relationship with God. In a time when distractions abound and our attention is constantly pulled in different directions, seeking God’s face requires intentionality. It means setting aside time for prayer, meditation, and reading Scripture. It means prioritizing our spiritual growth over worldly pursuits.

For Christians today, seeking God’s face is a call to deepen our faith and trust in Him. It is an invitation to experience His presence and guidance in our lives. As we seek Him, we become more attuned to His will and more capable of living out His love and justice in the world.

Turning from Wicked Ways

Repentance is a central theme in this verse. It calls us to turn away from our sins and embrace a life of righteousness. This turning away is not just about avoiding wrongdoing but actively pursuing what is good and just. It is about aligning our lives with God’s commandments and values.

In a world filled with injustice, violence, and moral confusion, this call to repentance is crucial. It challenges us to examine our actions and attitudes, to seek forgiveness, and to make amends. It reminds us that true healing and restoration come from living in accordance with God’s will, and that HE is the One ultimately who is in CONTROL at all times!

The Promise of Forgiveness and Healing

The promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14 is both comforting and empowering. God assures us that if we humble ourselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways, He will hear us, forgive our sins, and heal our land. This promise is a testament to God’s boundless mercy and love.

In today’s vitriolic world, this promise offers hope. It reminds us that no matter how dire the situation, God’s healing power is available to us. It encourages us to persevere in our faith and to trust in His ability to bring about change.

Reflective Questions:

  1. In what areas of my life do I need to practice more humility?
  2. How can I make seeking God’s face a daily priority?
  3. What sins or harmful behaviors do I need to turn away from?
  4. How can I contribute to the healing of my community and nation?

Takeaway:

2 Chronicles 7:14 is a powerful call to action for Christians today. It challenges us to humble ourselves, seek God earnestly, repent of our sins, and trust in His promise of forgiveness and healing. In a world that often feels broken and divided, this verse offers a path to restoration and peace.

Meditative Takeaway on 2 Chronicles 7:14

In the stillness of our hearts, let us reflect on the profound message of 2 Chronicles 7:14. This verse is not just a call to action but an invitation to transformation. It beckons us to humble ourselves, to seek God’s presence earnestly, and to turn away from our sins. As we meditate on these words, let us consider the following:

  1. Humility: True humility is recognizing our dependence on God. It is the foundation of our spiritual journey, reminding us that we are not self-sufficient. In a world that often glorifies pride and self-reliance, let us embrace humility as a path to divine grace.
  2. Prayer: Prayer is our direct line to God. It is through prayer that we communicate our deepest desires, fears, and hopes. Let us commit to a life of prayer, knowing that God hears us and responds with love and wisdom.
  3. Seeking God’s Face: To seek God’s face is to desire His presence above all else. It requires us to prioritize our relationship with Him, setting aside time each day to connect with our Creator. In the busyness of life, let us find moments of quiet to seek His guidance and peace.
  4. Repentance: Turning from our wicked ways is a continuous process of self-examination and growth. It is about recognizing our faults, seeking forgiveness, and striving to live in alignment with God’s will. Let us be vigilant in our efforts to live righteously, knowing that true healing comes from repentance.

Let us remember that God’s promise of forgiveness and healing is ever-present. He is ready to restore our hearts and our land if we turn to Him with sincerity and faith and trust HIM in all we do and speak. He is in CONTROL – He is OUR everything and in control of all things big and small!

May this verse inspire us to live with humility, to pray fervently, to seek God’s presence, and to repent earnestly. In doing so, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s love and grace.

Closing Prayer:

“Dear LORD, we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging our need for Your grace and guidance. We seek Your face, longing to know You more deeply and to align our lives with Your will. Forgive us for our sins and help us to turn away from all that is wicked. Heal our land, Lord, and bring unity and peace to our nation and people. Guide our leaders with Your wisdom and fill them with a spirit of justice and compassion. May Your love and truth prevail in our hearts and in our world. We ask this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: I Love To Dwell In Your Place My LORD~

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I Will Dwell In The House Of The Lord Forever, Beginning Now

 

“How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!” – Psalm 84:1

The opening verse of Psalm 84 invites us into a sacred space—a place where our souls find solace, our hearts resonate with joy, and our spirits commune with the living God. As we delve into this beautiful psalm, let us explore its rich layers, drawing inspiration for our Christian journey today.

Moral Thoughts:

  1. Longing for God’s Presence: The psalmist’s soul longs for the courts of the Lord. This longing reflects our innate desire for communion with God. In our busy lives, do we carve out moments to seek His presence? How can we cultivate a deeper hunger for God?
  2. The Beauty of Holiness: The psalmist describes God’s dwelling place as “lovely.” It’s not merely a physical structure but a realm of holiness. How can we honor the sacredness of our own hearts, recognizing that we are vessels for God’s presence?
  3. Blessed Are Those Who Dwell: The psalmist declares blessings upon those who dwell in God’s house. What does it mean to dwell in His presence daily? How can we create spiritual habits that draw us closer to Him?

Christian Living Today:

  1. Our Spiritual Home: Just as the psalmist yearned for the temple, we have a spiritual home—the body of Christ. Our churches, small groups, and fellowship gatherings become dwelling places where we encounter God. How can we actively engage in our spiritual communities?
  2. Joyful Worship: Our hearts and flesh sing for joy when we worship the living God. Worship isn’t confined to Sunday mornings; it’s a lifestyle. How can we infuse our daily routines with worship, expressing gratitude and awe?
  3. The Journey Matters: The psalmist speaks of the pilgrimage to Zion. Our faith journey is also a pilgrimage—a process of growth, valleys, and mountaintops. How do we navigate life’s journey with faith, knowing that God is our constant companion?

Reflective Questions:

  1. What does God’s dwelling place mean to you personally? How do you experience His presence?
  2. Are there areas in your life where you long for God more intensely? How can you invite Him into those spaces?
  3. How can you make your home, workplace, and relationships places where God’s presence is felt?

Meditative Exercises:

  1. Silent Prayer: Find a quiet spot and meditate on Psalm 84:1. Allow the words to sink in, inviting God’s Divine Presence.
  2. Nature Walk: Take a walk outdoors, appreciating the beauty of creation. Reflect on how God’s dwelling place extends beyond walls.
  3. Journaling: Write down your longings, joys, and reflections. Pour out your heart to the Lord.

Applying Our Love Today:

  1. Love God Wholeheartedly: Let our love for God permeate every aspect of our lives. Whether at work, with family, or in our hobbies, may our actions reflect our love for Him.
  2. Love Others: As we dwell in God’s love, let’s extend it to others. Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving. Love is our greatest witness.

 Unity Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your dwelling place—the courts of the Lord. Fill our hearts with longing for You. May our lives be a fragrant offering, a temple where Your Spirit resides. Teach us to love You wholeheartedly and to love our neighbors as ourselves. As we journey toward Zion, guide our steps, and may our worship be a symphony of joy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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Takeaway Thoughts:

  • God’s Presence is our true home.
  • Worship is a lifestyle, not an event.
  • Our pilgrimage is marked by His grace.

May you find rest and joy in the dwelling place of the Lord.

 

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DEAR GOD: THANK YOU!

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John 3:16 God So Loved The World Machine Embroidery Design

The Depth of Divine Love

The verse John 3:16 is a beacon of hope, a celestial promise that transcends time and space. It encapsulates the essence of Christianity—the profound love of God for humanity. Let us delve into its depths, exploring how we, as Christians, can honor Him and live out this eternal truth.

The Verse

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

The Magnitude of His Sacrifice

God’s love is boundless. He didn’t merely express affection; He gave His Son—the ultimate sacrifice. Imagine the pain of a parent surrendering their child for the sake of others.

  • How does this selfless act impact your understanding of love?

Inclusive Love

“The world” encompasses everyone—regardless of race, creed, or past. God’s love knows no boundaries.

  • How can we extend such inclusive love to others?

Belief and Eternal Life

Belief in Jesus is the key. It’s not mere intellectual assent but wholehearted trust. Eternal life awaits those who embrace this truth.

  • What does genuine belief look like in your life?

Living Sacrifices

Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices. Our daily choices—small or significant—can honor God.

What sacrifices can you make today to honor Him?

Love in Action

 John 3:18 reminds us to love not in words alone but through deeds. Acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion honoring Him in all we do.

  • How can you tangibly express God’s love to others?

Integrity and Holiness

Our moral views matter. Honoring God involves living with integrity, resisting temptation, and pursuing holiness.

  • What areas of your life need alignment with God’s standards?

Thoughts to Take Away

Embrace Grace

God’s love isn’t earned; it’s freely given. Accept it with gratitude.

  • How can you extend grace to yourself and others?


Share the Good News

John 3:16 isn’t just for us—it’s for the world. Share it boldly.

  • Who needs to hear this life-transforming message today?

 Unity Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your incomprehensible love. Help us honor You daily, living as reflections of Your grace. May our lives echo John 3:16, drawing others into Your embrace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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 John 3:16 isn’t a mere verse; it’s a lifeline. As Christians, let us honor God by living out this love, sharing it with a world desperate for hope. May our lives resonate with the eternal truth: God so loved us that He gave His Son. 🙏✨

DEAR GOD: The Love From Mother – Is Love From You~

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Bible Verses About Mother's Love - CHURCHGISTS.COM

 

The Love of a Mother: A Reflection of Divine Affection

The love of a mother is a profound and sacred sentiment that has been celebrated and revered throughout history. It is a love that is pure, selfless, and enduring, often serving as the first and most enduring love one experiences. The Bible, particularly in the New King James Version (NKJV), offers us a glimpse into the depth of a mother’s love and its reflection of God’s love for us.

Scriptural Support

The scriptures are replete with verses that extol the virtues of a mother’s love. In Isaiah 66:13, we are comforted by the words, “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; and you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”

This verse not only highlights the comforting nature of a mother’s love but also likens it to the comfort that God provides, suggesting a divine quality within it1.

Similarly, Proverbs 31:25-30 describes the strength and dignity of a mother, her wisdom, and her fear of the Lord, which are more precious than jewels. This passage paints a picture of a mother as someone who is strong yet gentle, wise yet humble, and valued beyond measure1.

Morals and Reflection

The love of a mother teaches us about sacrifice, patience, and unconditional love. It asks us to consider how we can emulate such love in our own lives. How can we show selflessness in our actions? How can we offer comfort and support to those in need? These questions prompt us to reflect on the morals instilled in us through a mother’s love and challenge us to live up to those ideals.

Thoughts to Take Away

As we ponder the scriptures and the love of a mother, let us take away the understanding that love is the greatest gift we can give and receive. It is a reflection of God’s love for us, a love that is boundless and eternal. May we strive to give love as mother’s love, with all the tenderness, strength, and devotion that it entails.

For those who have lost their dear mothers (like me- 9 years ago tomorrow) keep that love within your heart, embrace it going forward, remembering that love as you “love those around you” today and always.

For those of you who are fortunate and blessed to have their mom’s today celebrating this day, hug them a little longer than you normally would, hold them and tell them “thank you Mom” for all your sacrifices, and your love that made me who I am today.  Life is short, and fleeting. Enjoy the moment. Enjoy the second. Enjoy the minutes of life as it is.

Deeper Thoughts & Reflections

In the love of a mother, we see the hand of God, shaping and guiding us with a love that is as vast as the universe. Let us honor that love by living lives that reflect its beauty and grace. Reflecting on the love of a mother and the scriptures, we are reminded of the powerful bond that exists between a mother and her children.

It is a bond that teaches us about the very nature of love itself – a love that is nurturing, protective, and reflective of the divine. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we always hold dear the lessons learned from a mother’s love and the ultimate love of God, who is above all.

Prayer of Unity:

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of mothers, for their love that mirrors Your divine affection. May we cherish and honor them as they have cherished and nurtured us. Bless them with strength, wisdom, and joy. Help us to embody the love they have shown us, to be selfless, patient, and kind. May their example lead us closer to You, the source of all love, in Jesus precious name we pray, Amen.”

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May these verses and this post remind us that all love is from God-and especially the love of “mom” -which second only to God- is the quintessential love of our lives, from gestation, to birth, childhood, teen years, adult years, and beyond, mom’s love endures, as most important God’s love endures, forever and ever…

 

The loveliest masterpiece of God is the heart of a Mother. | Happy ...

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: How May I Please You?~

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Colossians 1:10 

“…so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;”

 

Pleasing our Father should be the goal of all believers, and all who call upon the name of Christ for salvation.

For all those who want to please God walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. Meaning, walk with the spiritual frame of mind and not by the body mind.

Walking in the Spirit and not in the flesh summed up means, “walking worthy of our calling and surrendering to God’s will. And being obedient in His commandments.

It may seem utterly unattainable and truly impossible to do. But God wants us to please Him, and He will supply the strength to do so, when we are contrite in heart and sincere in our desire to do so.

After all it’s His Spirit who lives in our hearts, and that is how we can manage to live by the Spirit.  In Romans 8:8

Paul reminds us that, “whoever walks in the flesh cannot possibly please God.” That alone is reason enough to want to walk worthy and put on the Spirit of God. We do this by our faith, because without it, we are not going to please God.

We must truly believe in Christ, as our Savior. We must believe He exists. He also will reward those who earnestly seek Him. ((Hebrews 11:6).

Those who are still in their sin have their minds sent on sinful desires. Whereas those who have been transformed and regenerated by Christ, are new creatures in Him. The old self is gone, and in its place a new one.2 Corinthians 5:17

Meaning we have a completely new mind that is fully controlled by the Spirit. And when we have that mind-set, we have a desire to live in accordance with Him in all we do and speak.

The mind of a sinful person is death. Ostensibly, the mind controlled by the Spirit is Life and peace. But the sinful mind is hostile and unmoving and set in their ways, not wanting to please God. The flesh does not want to acquiesce to God’s law or submit to it. Nor can it do so, without Christ’ Spirit and strength.(Romans 8:6-7).

Finally, pleasing God truly comes down to this: “Living according to His commandments, living according to His precepts, and doing it with reverence and complete submission and unconditional love.

We always want to please those we love right?

The Bible is full of exhortations to righteous living and loving Christ. Jesus says it quite clearly, “If you love me, you will obey what I command.” (John 14:15). 

The Epistles are God’s plan for believers. This book shows and tells what to display throughout our lives, concerning our behavior that is most pleasing and satisfying to God:

“For the rest, then, my brothers, we beseech you and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that, as you have received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, so you would abound more and more” (1Thessalonians 4:1).

 

“Father, may I always be pleasing in Your eyes, may I walk in the Spirit and follow your precepts, commandments, and laws, and may I glorify You all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Walking In The Spirit - Part 1 - CrossBridge Community Church