Life

DEAR GOD: Manifested Love: Living Through Christ~

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Living Life Through Jesus – PASTOR DARRYL BAKER

“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” –
1 John 4:9

 

A Reflection on 1 John 4:9

This verse beautifully encapsulates the core of God’s boundless love and the essence of His divine plan for humanity. It speaks not just of a historical event but of the very heartbeat of Christian faith. In sending His only begotten Son into the world, God made an unparalleled sacrifice that enables us to experience eternal life through Christ.

Life Through Christ: An Overview

Through Christ, we gain more than a mere existence; we are offered an abundant life filled with purpose, love, and hope. Jesus Himself said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). This abundant life is characterized by a transformative relationship with God, one that renews our hearts and minds, guiding us to live according to His will.

Reflective Questions:

  1. How does understanding God’s love through the sacrifice of His Son influence our daily lives and decisions?
  2. In what ways can we live more fully through Christ, embracing the abundant life He offers?
  3. How can we share the message of God’s love with others, reflecting Christ’s light in the world?

Supporting Scriptures:

  • John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
  • Romans 5:8 – “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
  • Ephesians 2:4-5 – “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)”

Conclusion:

God’s love is both profound and active, manifesting through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. This Divine love calls us to respond with obedience and alignment to His Word and will for our lives. By doing so, we not only experience the fullness of life here on earth but also secure our place in the eternal afterlife. Adhering to His commandments and living in His love prepares us for the ultimate reward—an eternity in His loving Presence.

 Prayer:

“LORD- You have shown us through the gift of Your only begotten Son. Lord, help us to live through Christ, embracing the abundant life He offers. Guide us to align our lives with Your will, to walk in Your ways, and to share Your love with others. May we be ever mindful of Your presence and Your promises, living each day in the light of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)” – Ephesians 2:4-5

Blessing for the Readers:

May the love of God surround you, the grace of Christ sustain you, and the Holy Spirit guide you in all your endeavors. May you find peace, purpose, and joy in living through Him, and may His blessings be upon you now and forever. Amen.

 

DEAR GOD: Navigating My Life With Your Guidance Always~

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God's Hands: 20 Comforting Bible Verses - Guideposts

Are you right this moment searching for guidance, for a path that leads us closer to purpose and fulfillment?

The Bible offers us profound spiritual guidance, applicable to every aspect of our lives. Through its teachings, we find direction, comfort, and the wisdom necessary to navigate life’s complexities.

The Role of Scripture in Daily Guidance

Scripture serves as a beacon of light in our lives, illuminating the path we should follow. Psalms 119:105 (ESV) reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” This verse encapsulates the essence of how Scripture guides us: it provides clarity, direction, and the assurance that we are not wandering aimlessly.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I incorporate Scripture into my daily routine to seek guidance?
  2. What specific areas of my life could benefit from the wisdom of the Bible?
  3. How can I remain open and receptive to the spiritual guidance provided by God?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
  • James 1:5 (ESV): “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
  • Psalm 32:8 (ESV): “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

Biblical Overview

Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of individuals receiving divine guidance. From Abraham’s call to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1) to Moses receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20), God’s guidance is a recurring theme. These instances remind us that seeking and following divine guidance leads to a life aligned with God’s will.

Moral Thought and Takeaways

The overarching lesson from Scripture is to trust in God’s wisdom and guidance. By acknowledging Him in all our ways and not relying solely on our understanding, we open ourselves to divine direction. This trust is an act of faith, requiring us to surrender our desires and plans to God’s greater plan for our lives.

Closing Prayer

“LORD-Heavenly Father, we come before You seeking Your divine guidance in every aspect of our lives. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and to rely on Your word as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Grant us the humility to acknowledge You in all our ways and the faith to follow Your direction. May Your guidance lead us to a life of purpose, peace, and fulfillment. In Jesus, Yeshua’s name we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

May this verse guide your thoughts and actions throughout the day, reminding you of God’s unwavering presence and guidance.

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DEAR GOD: I’m In Your Hands & You Are In Control~

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LifeNotes Encouragement: It's in God's Hands

Experiencing God and His Awesome Power and Presence is overwhelming, and at times hard to put into words.

His Presence and providence is an existence that brings joy and rewards beyond comprehension. Living in confidence of His love and promises affords us the opportunity to exhibit behavior that reflects His light and love. And when we align with His Word and His commandments, we are capable and able to do all things through “Christ” as stated in Philippians 4:13. 

When we humbly seek His face in all we do – He is there and guides us in all of our paths. I’ve witnessed countless people who are lost and miserable, and although they are of different backgrounds, races, or status – they all shared one thing – they didn’t have a relationship with Christ.  They didn’t know Him, His voice, His ways – His doctrine – His Word!  It rips my heart to shreds when I see this – and have many times over.  So, I can only imagine what it does to our LORD above!

I’ve also been witness to those who came to the LORD after being broken, lost – in a muddle of darkness – and desperate – and hopeless.  Yet, when they make the turn and come to the LORD in humility seeking His love – He is always there waiting. And the transformation in their lives becomes glaringly apparent as the LIGHT is turned on!

  • Are you in the dark?
  • Do you feel lost?
  • Are you looking for help and hope?

When you connect to the LORD and His Spirit it is an amazing feeling. It’s as if the suffocation of the world is finally released and you can breathe!

When you live for Him in all you do – things happen – and continue to happen in your life. For one thing you can handle adversity more readily – and able to sustain it with the LORD in your corner. He will hold you up with His right hand of righteousness.

Isaiah 41:10
He will guide all of your paths when you trust in Him exclusively and fully (Proverbs 3:5-8). He will bring health to your bones and joy to your spirit and life.
He cares for you – and cares about you. Always- no matter what.

I have witnessed so many miraculous recoveries with my patients in nursing homes.
And with friends and neighbors. Me -included!

Things that doctors couldn’t understand and had them scratching their heads staring with incredulous faces at the results of tests that proved them all wrong.

God is in control, and when others are ready to pull the covers over your head and give up on you – God says, “ NO WAY – My Beloved has more things to do.”  Science and diagnostic tests were pointing to a grim report – but then God’s hand of grace and mercy and love wiped it all away! Hello Life!

That is who God is!
Merciful, faithful, loving, compassionate and Omnipotent!
Strong – in control- and always wants what is best for us!

For those who want to know Him and experience the joy of being with Him in all your days on earth and beyond, when you are called “home” for eternity – it’s never too late.

He is waiting for you – always is – and always will be.

Once you accept Him and His Holy Spirit comes to dwell within you – life will NEVER be the same again. Never!

Don’t believe me – do it for yourself!
Then readily accept the single greatest gift that anyone can ever receive in this life and beyond!
Salvation and love of Christ!
He only wants your love in return – what a deal- what a gift- what an amazing King of kings and LORD of lords!

Isaiah 53:5ESV –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.

His book of Love the Bible- is waiting – may I suggest reading any of the Gospels to start if you haven’t read the Word. Gospel of John and Matthew are good places to begin.

Brothers and Sisters – start living the life God intended you to live – and open your heart and accept Him in – then begin to BREATHE in a way you never have before!

God Bless You All~

Here is a prayer you can pray to accept Him and follow Him.

“I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness.
I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died
for my sin and that you raised Him to life.
I want to trust Him as my Savior and follow Him as Lord,
from this day forward. Father, please guide my life
and help me to do your will.
I accept Jesus as my LORD and savior.

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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?

Life Without God Is Meaningless Quotes - ShortQuotes.cc

 “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: I Find True Satisfaction In You Alone~

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Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart

Finding True Satisfaction in God

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4

In a world filled with fleeting pleasures and temporary satisfactions, the Bible calls us to find our deepest joy and contentment in God. Psalm 37:4 encourages us to delight ourselves in the Lord, promising that He will fulfill the desires of our hearts. This profound truth invites us to explore what it means to be truly satisfied in Him.

Original Thoughts and Moral Reflections

Psalm 37:4teaches us that when we align our desires with God’s will, He fulfills our deepest longings. This alignment is not about God granting every wish but transforming our hearts to desire what He desires. When we delight in Him, our priorities shift, and we find joy in His presence and purposes.

Psalm 22:26highlights the satisfaction that comes from seeking God. True contentment is not found in material possessions or worldly achievements but in a relationship with Him. The meek, those who humbly seek the Lord, are promised satisfaction and eternal life.

Psalm 16:11reminds us that true joy and eternal pleasures are found in God’s presence. Our ultimate satisfaction is not in the temporary pleasures of this world but in the everlasting joy that comes from being with Him. This verse calls us to seek His presence daily, knowing that in Him, we find fullness of joy.

Jeremiah 31:25 speaks to God’s promise to refresh and satisfy those who are weary. In our busy and often exhausting lives, God offers us rest and renewal. He is our source of strength, and when we turn to Him, He refreshes our souls.

Takeaways and Christianity Paths in Life

  1. Delighting in God: To delight in the Lord means to find our greatest joy in Him. This involves spending time in His Word, worshiping Him, and seeking His will in our lives. As we delight in Him, our desires become aligned with His, and we experience true satisfaction.
  2. Seeking God Earnestly: True satisfaction comes from seeking God with all our hearts. This means prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. When we seek Him earnestly, we find the contentment and peace that only He can provide.
  3. Experiencing God’s Joy: God’s presence brings fullness of joy. By spending time in prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word, we can experience the joy that comes from being close to Him. This joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Him.
  4. Relying on God for Strength: In times of weariness and struggle, God is our source of strength and refreshment. By turning to Him in prayer and trusting in His promises, we can find the renewal and strength we need to face life’s challenges.

 Unified Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our source of true satisfaction and joy. Help us to delight in You and seek Your presence daily. Transform our hearts to desire what You desire and align our wills with Yours. Refresh our weary souls and fill us with Your peace and strength. May we always find our deepest contentment in You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Message of Hope

In today’s world, filled with distractions and challenges, finding satisfaction in God is more important than ever. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that true joy and contentment are found in Him. By delighting in the Lord, seeking His presence, and relying on His strength, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises. May this truth fill our hearts with hope and guide us on our journey of faith.

Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself also in the LORD: and he shall give you the desires of your heart.

DEAR GOD: You Are The Great Light Of The World~

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Attributes Of God: Divine Light | Teresa Blythe

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. – Isaiah 9:2 (ESV)

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“The People Who Walked in Darkness Have Seen a Great Light”
Historical Context:

The book of Isaiah, written by the prophet Isaiah during the 8th century BCE, contains a rich tapestry of prophecies, warnings, and promises. This verse emerges from a time of political turmoil, moral decay, and spiritual darkness in ancient Israel. The people faced Assyrian oppression, idolatry, and internal strife. Amidst this darkness, Isaiah’s words offered hope—a beacon of light piercing through the shadows.

Then:

  1. Physical Darkness: The imagery of walking in darkness symbolizes the human condition—our spiritual blindness, ignorance, and separation from God. The Israelites, both individually and collectively, wandered in moral obscurity, totally out of touch with the reality of what was occurring around them, or the miracles they were witness to,
  2. The Promised Light: Isaiah prophesied the coming of a Messiah—a great Light—who would illuminate their lives. This anticipation pointed to Jesus Christ, whose birth fulfilled this promise centuries later.

Today:

  1. Spiritual Darkness: Our world remains ensnared and suffocating in darkness. We grapple with moral relativism, materialism, and existential questions. The light of truth often flickers amidst chaos, it is always there. Sadly, for a great majority of people- they are still unaware of the magnitude of who Christ is!
  2. The Light of Christ: Jesus, the Light of the World, continues to shine. His teachings guide us toward love, compassion, and redemption. In our personal struggles, we can find solace in His presence. We find peace in His promises. We find love in His embrace during the entire span of our lifetime.

Commentary and Moral Views:

  • Hope Amid Despair: Isaiah’s words remind us that even in our darkest moments, hope truly exists. The Light of Christ dispels fear, offering a path to salvation. He offers a way for LIFE. Not just an existence, as those who don’t have Him in their lives. But CHRIST offers LIFE, LIGHT & TRUTH. The only way to get to the Father, is through the Son.
  • Responsibility: As recipients of this Light, we bear the responsibility to share it. Our actions should reflect Christ’s love, illuminating the lives of others, and all those we encounter on a daily basis. Our behavior should endeavor to enhance the light from within, while giving Him glory and being a witness for Him all the days of our lives.
  • Repentance: Walking in darkness necessitates turning toward the light. Repentance—a change of heart—is essential for transformation. And it cannot be done alone – it can only be accomplished through Christ Himself. It is up to us to seek Him, accept Him and apply our lives, the best we can, and do all according to His will and purpose in our lives.

Meditative Thoughts and Reflective Questions:

  1. What Darkness Do We Face? Consider personal struggles, societal issues, and global challenges. How can Christ’s beautiful Light address them?
  2. Are We Reflectors of Light? Do our lives radiate hope, kindness, and truth? Or do we contribute to the darkness?
  3. Seeking the Light: How can we draw closer to Christ?  We can do this through prayer, Scripture, and acts of love – are we doing this daily?

Unity Prayer:

“Dear LORD- in this world of shadows, we seek Your Light. Illuminate our hearts, dispel our doubts, and guide us toward You. May we be reflective of Your love, and pillars of hope, reflecting Christ’s You and Your ways to those around us, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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Reflective Takeaway:

Embrace the Light: Just as the Israelites witnessed the dawn breaking through their darkness, we too can experience transformation. Seek the Light, walk in it, and share it generously with others.

Give witness to the Great I AM, and the Greatest of all Lights in this world, Jesus Christ!

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DEAR GOD: You Are the Keeper of My Soul~

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I observed my niece playing with her toys on the floor in her living room. She methodically placed her building blocks one on top of the other. She seemed to really enjoy the red ones the most. As the pile got higher and higher, she became more excited. Until the last block she placed atop of the huge pile.  I knew it was sure to happen and within seconds she was crying. “All come down!” She cried as her mom assured her; she could build it again. That seemed to stifle the tears somewhat. And within seconds a chocolate chip cookie and milk seemed to erase the entire scenario from her little innocent mind.

That got me to thinking about our souls. The blocks were like the weight of the world, all its troubles piling atop one another. Issues, troubles, finances, division, political discourse, so on and so forth. Until one final piece crumbles it to the ground. That could be our soul!

Jesus very succinctly gives us a warning in Mark 8:36. He is telling us what good to gain the world if we lose our soul in the process? How important is the things of this world that would push our souls to the brink of eradication?

Listen, of course we need to be aware of current events. Jesus warned His disciples as he sent them out into the world in Matthew 10:16, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. 

The Lord Jesus used the dove as a model for harmlessness and innocence, and the serpent for wisdom and cunning. So, we are to utilize the two in a way that is fitting of a Christian and follower of Christ. We are to be cautious as we venture into the world and be forewarned at all times, remembering the words of Christ.

How can we do this?

  1. Take note of the world events, but don’t get pulled into them in an ungodly fashion. ((Colossians 2:8)
  2. Be aware that evil does exist in the world but remember that Christ gives us authority in His name to overcome it. ((Mark 16:18)
  3. Be an example of His light to those you encounter, smile, help, and be attentive to other’s needs. (Matthew 5:16)
  4. Stay in the Word, and always have your Gospel Armor in place (Ephesians 6)
  5. Don’t fear those who can kill your flesh, but rather those who can “kill your soul.” (Matthew 10:28)

 

Number five on the above list is crucial to your spiritual growth and roots in Christ. The only One we answer to is our LORD. The only One we bow down to is to the Highest Authority in the Universe, our LORD and Savior, King of kings.

Sure, we are subject to “civil law” and “rules” in which societal norms are vitally important to exist. But make no mistake, we are under the control of the Highest Royal God, who is at the helm 24/7!

It is Him and only He that has our soul in His hands.

We have a duty as citizens to obey the rules of the land, but we have a full-blown allegiance to acquiesce to all of what God commands.

So, remembering my nieces “tower” that fell from all that weight. There is only so much world you can take in before it tries to snatch up your soul. But as faithful followers, nothing could ever take us from the love of Christ. Nothing!

Romans 8:39 -Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

“Father my LORD, thank You for Your brilliant light, love and guidance, may I always be aware that we are dealing with daily spiritual warfare in the world, may my spirit always be in step with Your word in all I do and encounter, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”