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DEAR GOD: Praying-Praying-Praying-Praying- Amen~

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Women's Prayer Group | Programs | Holy Trinity Cathedral

1 Timothy 2:1-2 (KJV): “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.“

This passage from Paul’s letter to Timothy is a timeless exhortation, calling Christians to a life of prayer, gratitude, and godliness. The call to pray for all men, including those in authority, reflects a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of our lives and the importance of spiritual support for our leaders.

Heartfelt Reflection

In biblical times, praying for those in authority was a radical act of faith and obedience. Early Christians lived under Roman rule, often facing persecution and oppression. Yet, Paul urged them to lift up their rulers in prayer, seeking God’s guidance and intervention. This practice not only fostered a spirit of humility and compassion but also demonstrated a profound trust in God’s sovereign control over all aspects of life. 

In all we do each day of our lives prayers is impactful one way or another- to our soul- and to souls of others, and to the basis of our salvation. Aligning with the Word and adhering to His will and purpose for our lives is essential to our well-being and spiritual growth.  So praying is an integral part of faith and Christianity.

Today, this command is just as relevant. In a world filled with political division and social unrest, praying for our leaders can seem daunting or even counterintuitive. However, it remains a powerful act of faith and unity. By praying for those in positions of power, we acknowledge their immense responsibility and seek God’s wisdom and guidance for them. Our prayers can become a source of support and transformation, paving the way for peace and godliness in our communities.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I incorporate regular prayers for leaders and authorities into my daily routine?
  2. In what ways can I cultivate a spirit of gratitude and intercession for all people, regardless of their position or status?
  3. How does praying for those in authority impact my perspective on political and social issues?
  4. What steps can I take to foster a quiet and peaceable life in my own community?
  5. How can I encourage others to join me in praying for our leaders and communities?

Moral Takeaways

  • Intercessory Prayer: Praying for others, especially those in authority, is a vital aspect of our spiritual lives. It reflects our compassion and desire for God’s will to be done.
  • Gratitude: Cultivating a spirit of gratitude helps us recognize the blessings in our lives and fosters a positive and hopeful outlook.
  • Unity and Peace: Praying for our leaders and communities promotes unity and peace, bridging divisions and fostering a spirit of cooperation and respect.

Supportive Scriptures

Romans 13:1 (ESV): “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”

Jeremiah 29:7 (ESV): “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”

Prayer

 “LORD – We come to You lifting up our prayers for all people and those in positions of authority. Grant our leader’s wisdom, integrity, and compassion as they make decisions that impact our communities and nations. Help us to live peaceful and godly lives, reflecting Your love and grace in all that we do. Guide us to be diligent in our prayers, interceding for those who govern and seeking Your will in every aspect of our lives. May our prayers be a source of strength and support for our leaders, fostering unity and peace in our world. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord fill your heart with peace and gratitude as you lift others in prayer. Trust in His wisdom and sovereignty, knowing that He is at work in every aspect of our lives. May your prayers be a source of unity and strength, fostering godliness and honesty in your community.

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: Your Are My Rock & I Love Your Presence~

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Creativity of Inspiration: I Look to the Hills Whence Cometh My Help 

“For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress;
I shall not be greatly shaken.”
Psalm 62:1-2 (ESV)

These verses from Psalm 62 convey a profound sense of trust and dependence on
God. 

They remind us that in a world full of noise and distractions, 
there is a place of peace and stability
found in waiting silently before the Lord. This waiting is not
passive but an active expression of faith, acknowledging that
our ultimate salvation and security come from God alone.

Christian Views

For Christians, these verses encapsulate the essence of our
faith—a deep, unshakeable trust in God. In times of trouble and uncertainty,
we are called to remember that God is our rock and fortress.
He is our refuge and strength, providing a firm foundation when everything else seems unstable.
This dependence on God is central to the Christian life, guiding our actions, thoughts, and attitudes.

Moral Takeaways

Trust in God’s Timing: Waiting in silence for God’s intervention teaches us patience and trust in His perfect timing

Dependence on God: Recognize that our strength and salvation come from God alone, not from our own efforts or external circumstances.
 Stability in Faith: Find peace and stability in God’s
Presence, knowing that He is our unwavering foundation.

Pondering Thoughts

How often do I take time to wait silently before God, seeking His guidance and peace?

Do I truly believe that my salvation and security come
from God alone, or am I relying on other sources for
stability?

How can I cultivate a deeper sense of trust and
dependence on God in my daily life?

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life am I struggling to trust in God’s timing?

How can I create more moments of silence and
reflection to connect with God?

What steps can I take to strengthen my faith and
reliance on God as my rock and fortress?

Supporting Scripture

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles; 
they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

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.”

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

Prayer

“LORD- thank You for being our Rock, our Fortress, and our salvation.
Teach us to wait patiently and silently before You, trusting in Your perfect timing
and unfailing love. Help us to find peace and stability in Your Presence, knowing that You are our refuge and strength.
Strengthen our faith and guide our steps, so that we may always rely on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV): “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my
help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.”

Blessing

May the Lord’s peace and stability fill your heart as you trust 
in Him. May you find rest and strength in His presence, 
knowing that He is your Rock and Fortress.

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DEAR GOD: Your Goodness Shines Over All~

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God's GoodnessThe Goodness of God: A Journey of Faith

The Bible resounds with the declaration that God is good. His goodness transcends mere acts of kindness; it encompasses His holiness, justice, mercy, and love in perfect harmony. As we delve into this topic, let us uncover the layers of His goodness and discover how it shapes our lives. Upon reading these selected verses, truly concentrate and meditate on the “goodness” of God. Not just the “word” – but the reality of “goodness as it pertains to God.” His redemption of souls, His forgiveness, His loving nature towards humanity, His steadfast and unwavering mercy, His light that shines in the darkness, and His life affirming gift of His Son, our LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ!

God’s Goodness Revealed in Scripture:

  1. Exodus 34:6: “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth.” God’s goodness is woven into His very nature. He is merciful, gracious, patient, and unwaveringly true.
  2. 1 Chronicles 16:34: “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Our gratitude springs from recognizing His enduring goodness.
  3. Psalm 25:8: “Good and upright is the Lord.” His goodness aligns with righteousness, guiding us toward upright living.
  4. Psalm 23:6: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” His goodness accompanies us throughout our journey, leading us home.
  5. Psalm 145:9: “The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works.” His goodness extends to every corner of creation.
  6. Mark 10:18: “No one is good but One, that is, God.” Jesus Himself affirmed God’s inherent goodness.
  7. James 1:17: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” Our blessings flow from the Father of lights, unchanging and generous.
  8. Matthew 7:11: “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” God delights in bestowing goodness upon His children.

Meditative Thoughts:

Contemplating His Majesty: Take a moment to meditate on the glorious splendor of God’s majesty. Imagine His awesome acts—the creation of galaxies, the intricacy of a butterfly’s wing, and the redemption of souls.

The Greatness of His Goodness: As you reflect, consider how God’s goodness surpasses human comprehension. It flows from His very essence, unblemished and unending.

Trust in His Goodness: Amid life’s challenges, trust that you will see the goodness of the Lord. Even when circumstances seem bleak, His goodness remains steadfast.

Pursue Righteousness: God’s goodness aligns with righteousness. Strive to live uprightly, knowing that His goodness surrounds you.

Reflective Questions:

  1. What “high places” are you striving to reach? Just as Habakkuk desired to see God’s goodness, consider your spiritual aspirations.
  2. How can you reflect God’s goodness in your interactions with others? Extend kindness, mercy, and grace to those around you.

Prayer of Unity:

“Dear Heavenly Father, we gather as one, acknowledging Your goodness. You are the source of all that is right and beautiful. As we journey through life, grant us hinds’ feet—agility to navigate challenges and unwavering trust in Your goodness. Guide us, O Lord, To walk the path of righteousness. May our lives echo Your goodness, Our words and deeds reflecting Your grace. Fill our hearts with gratitude, For Your gifts are abundant. In unity, we lift our voices: You are good, and Your mercy endures forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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Meditative Thoughts

As you close this reflection, dwell on the goodness that surrounds you. May it inspire gratitude and propel you forward on your journey of faith, as you walk in abject humility and faithful servitude of Your LORD and Creator, all the days of your life…

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Worthy~

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Christ is Worthy – Pleading in Prayer

Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with Him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith –
Luke 12:7 (NLT)

The Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ

Philippians 3:8-9 is a profound declaration by the Apostle Paul about the value of knowing Christ. These verses encapsulate the essence of Paul’s faith and the transformation it wrought in his life.

Renouncing All for Christ

Paul speaks of renouncing all things for the sake of Christ. He considers them “loss” compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus as his Lord. For Paul, this knowledge is not merely intellectual; it is a relational, experiential knowledge that has the power to transform one’s entire being.

The Righteousness from God

In verse 9, Paul contrasts his former life of legalistic righteousness with the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. This righteousness is not self-derived; it is given by God on the basis of faith. It is a righteousness that aligns us with God’s own character and purposes.

The Intimate Knowledge of Christ

Paul’s desire to “gain Christ” and be found in Him is an intimate expression of union with the Savior. It is a picture of complete identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, leading to a life that is fully immersed in the presence and power of Jesus.

 Philippians 3:8-9 invites us to consider the value of our own pursuits in light of the incomparable worth of knowing Christ. It challenges us to find our identity, not in our achievements or religious credentials, but in the righteousness that comes from God through faith in Jesus.

In this world, when we walk around in recognition of Christ and all He is – we are able to fulfill His will and purpose in our life more readily, when we are reinforced by His Word and love.

Being able to walk in confidence and know that He is with us always, we are able to do all things through Him who strengthens us. We are able to attain things easily and are able to proceed in all we endeavor during our day.

Christ is the One who is worthy and the One we should put first at all times, today, tomorrow and always. When we do that – we live a LIFE worth LIVING – because He is LIFE itself! Amen!

Let us pray:

“Dear Lord, thank You for the gift of knowing Christ, which surpasses all earthly gains. Help me to count all things as loss in comparison to the treasure of Your presence. May I be found in Christ, clothed in Your righteousness, and living by faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”