love of Christ

DEAR GOD: Purge Me, Cleanse Me So I May Bear Fruit~

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I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
John 15:1-2

The Essence of Abiding in Christ

This profound verse speaks to the essential relationship between believers and Jesus Christ. The imagery of the vine and branches highlights the vital connection we must maintain with Christ to live fruitful and fulfilling lives. Just as a branch cannot survive, let alone bear fruit, without being attached to the vine, we cannot thrive spiritually without remaining in close communion with Jesus. By partaking daily in His Word, and meditating on His Scripture we are able to grow spiritually, and our growth hereby will produce fruit, and more of it each day.

Understanding the Metaphor

In Biblical times, vineyards were a common sight, and the metaphor of the vine and branches would have been easily understood. The vine provides the necessary nutrients and support for the branches to grow and produce fruit. Without this connection, the branches wither and die. Similarly, our spiritual lives depend entirely on our connection to Christ. He is the source of our strength, wisdom, and nourishment. Without Him, we can do nothing of eternal value.

Abiding in Christ Today

In today’s fast-paced world, the call to “abide” in Christ is more relevant than ever. It means remaining steadfast in our relationship with Him, despite the distractions and challenges of modern life. Abiding in Christ involves continual reliance on His grace, living in obedience to His Word, and seeking His presence in our daily lives. It is through this intimate relationship that we find purpose, peace, and the ability to bear spiritual fruit.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I cultivate a deeper and more consistent relationship with Christ?
  2. What distractions or challenges prevent me from fully abiding in Him?
  3. In what ways have I experienced spiritual growth and fruitfulness as a result of abiding in Christ?
  4. How can I encourage others in their walk with Christ and help them to abide in Him?
  5. What practical steps can I take daily to ensure that I remain connected to the Vine?

Supportive Scriptures

John 15:5 (KJV): “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Philippians 4:13 (KJV): “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Moral Takeaways

  • Dependence on Christ: Our spiritual vitality and ability to bear fruit depend entirely on our relationship with Christ.
  • Continual Growth: Abiding in Christ is an ongoing process that requires diligence and dedication.
  • Spiritual Fruit: The evidence of abiding in Christ is seen in the fruit of the Spirit manifested in our lives.

Prayer

“LORD –We come before You with hearts open and longing to abide in Your presence. Help us to remain steadfast in our relationship with Jesus, drawing strength and nourishment from Him as the true Vine. May we find purpose and peace in our connection to You, bearing fruit that brings glory to Your name. Guide us in overcoming the distractions and challenges that hinder our walk with You. Fill us with the fruit of the Spirit, reflecting Your love, joy, and peace to the world. Strengthen our faith and deepen our reliance on Your grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 1:3 (KJV): “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

Blessing for the Readers

May the Lord bless your commitment to abide in Christ. May your life be filled with the fruit of the Spirit, bringing glory to God and drawing others to His love. Trust in His guidance and remain steadfast in your relationship with Him.

God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: Your Touch Heals, Soothes, & Brings Joy~

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Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

Let’s dive into some verses of healing, and God’s promises to bring us joy and comfort and peace!

Healing Verses (ESV):

Jeremiah 17:14: “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save
me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise.”

Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their
wounds.”

Isaiah 53:5: “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.”

Commentary:

Healing, in both physical and spiritual senses, is a profound act of grace and tender mercy from God.

The verses from Jeremiah, Psalms, and Isaiah remind us that God is not only aware of our pains and sufferings but is actively involved in healing us.

This healing is not just a remedy for our bodies but extends to our hearts and souls. He extends this great compassion and mercy to all those who are willing to accept it, and go to Him with hearts filled with truth, seeking Him in earnest.

When Jeremiah cries out, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed,” it’s a declaration of complete trust in God’s power to heal. It is an acknowledgment that true healing comes from the LORD the ultimate Healer.

Similarly, the Psalmist in Psalm 147 speaks to the deep and intimate care God has for the brokenhearted. God does not just heal physical wounds but also the emotional and spiritual ones, binding up our sorrows with His boundless love.

Isaiah 53:5 connects this healing directly to the sacrifice of Jesus. It highlights that our healing has been paid for by the wounds Christ bore on our behalf. 

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of God’s love and the
lengths He went to bring us peace and healing.

Moral Thoughts:

  • Trust in Divine Healing: Our trust in God’s ability to heal us should be unwavering, recognizing that He has the power to mend not just our
    bodies but our spirits.

  • Holistic Healing: Healing is not just physical but emotional and
    spiritual. God’s care encompasses every aspect of our being.

  • Gratitude for Christ’s Sacrifice: The ultimate source of our healing is the sacrifice of Jesus, and our gratitude should reflect the magnitude of
    this gift.

Reflective Questions:

  • How have you experienced God’s healing in your life, whether
    physically, emotionally, or spiritually?

  • In what ways can you place your trust more fully in God’s
    ability to heal your current struggles?

  • How does reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice for your healing
    deepen your gratitude and faith?

Prayer:

Dear LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank you for your infinite love and the healing power that you bestow upon us.

Heal us, O Lord, in our times of pain and suffering, and bind our wounds with your tender care.

Teach us to trust wholly in your ability to restore us, both body and soul. We are forever grateful for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ, through whose wounds we are healed.

May we live lives that reflect your healing grace, bringing hope and comfort to others, and shine the light from within to without for all to see, and may we all be a testimony and witness to Your great glory and mercy and love, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Scripture to Meditate Upon:

Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV) 

 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is
easy, and my burden is light.”

Blessing:

May the healing grace of God enfold you and bring peace to your
heart. May you rest in His love and find renewal for your spirit. May you be blessed with the assurance that God’s healing hand is
always upon you, guiding you with His everlasting love.

God Bless you all~

Jesus Healing Hands

DEAR GOD: Your Son Wept In Compassion For Us~

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Jesus Wept” – An Exploration of Compassion and Humanity

The shortest verse in the Bible, “Jesus wept” (John 11:35), carries profound significance. Despite its brevity, it encapsulates the depth of Jesus’ compassion and humanity. This essay delves into the moral views, reflective questions, meditative takeaways, and supporting scripture surrounding this poignant moment.

Moral Views

The verse “Jesus wept” occurs in the context of the death of Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus. When Jesus arrives at Lazarus’ tomb and sees the mourning of Mary, Martha, and the other Jews, He is deeply moved and weeps. This moment reveals several moral insights:

  1. Empathy and Compassion: Jesus’ tears demonstrate His deep empathy for human suffering. Despite knowing He would raise Lazarus from the dead, He shares in the sorrow of those around Him. This teaches us the importance of being present and compassionate towards others in their times of grief.
  2. Humanity of Jesus: This verse underscores the humanity of Jesus. He experienced and expressed emotions just as we do. This connection makes His teachings and sacrifices more relatable and accessible to us.
  3. Value of Mourning: Mourning is a natural and necessary response to loss. Jesus’ weeping validates our own grief and shows that it is not a sign of weakness but a part of the healing process.

Reflective Questions

To deepen our understanding and personal connection to this verse, consider the following questions:

  1. How do I respond to the suffering of others? Reflect on your ability to empathize and offer support to those in pain. Are there ways you can be more present and compassionate?
  2. What does Jesus’ humanity mean to me? Contemplate how Jesus’ display of emotion impacts your relationship with Him. Does it make His teachings more relatable?
  3. How do I process my own grief? Think about your own experiences with loss and mourning. How can you find comfort in knowing that even Jesus wept?

Meditative Takeaway

In moments of meditation, focus on the image of Jesus weeping. Allow this image to remind you of His deep compassion and empathy for ALL of us!

Let it inspire you to be more compassionate towards others and to embrace your own humanity and emotions as Jesus would want us to. Consider thinking and meditating on the verse-“Jesus wept, and so can I,” to reinforce the acceptance of your own grief and the importance of empathy. Incorporate it into your course of action as you journey here in the flesh, maintaining His empathy and reflecting His light, as core foundations in every aspect of your life.

Supporting Scripture

To further explore the themes of compassion, humanity, and mourning, consider these additional scriptures:

  • Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse reassures us of God’s presence in our times of sorrow.
  • Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” This encourages us to share in the emotions of others, both joy and sorrow.
  • Hebrews 4:15: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” This highlights Jesus’ ability to empathize with our struggles.

Conclusion

“Jesus wept” is a powerful reminder of the depth of Jesus’ compassion and His shared humanity with us. It calls us to be empathetic, to embrace our own emotions, and to find comfort in the knowledge that our grief is understood and shared by Jesus Himself. Through reflection, meditation, and supporting scripture, we can draw closer to the heart of this profound verse and its implications for our lives.

“Dear LORD – We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and humility. Thank You for the profound reminder of Your compassion and empathy through the verse “Jesus wept.” As we reflect on this, we are reminded of Your deep love and understanding of our human experiences. Lord, we ask for Your presence to be felt by all who are grieving and in pain. May Your comforting arms surround them, bringing peace and solace.

Help us to be instruments of Your love, showing empathy and compassion to those around us. Guide us to embrace our own humanity, to acknowledge our emotions, and to find strength in our vulnerability. Just as Jesus wept, let us not shy away from our tears but see them as a pathway to healing and connection. Unite us, Lord, in our shared experiences and in our journey towards understanding and love.

May we support one another, rejoice with those who rejoice, and mourn with those who mourn, reflecting Your heart in all we do. We pray for Your wisdom and guidance in our daily lives. Help us to live out the teachings of Jesus, to be more like Him in our actions and words. Let our lives be a testament to Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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May this verse, “Jesus, wept” bring you peace and a sense of unity with those around you, as we realize how truly and deeply His love for us is, and how He is with us on all levels of our emotions, every day all the days of our lives…
Jesus Wept - Christian Genesis - Daily Devotional

DEAR GOD: A King Beyond Earthly Royalty~

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My heart overflows with a pleasing theme; I address my verses to the king; my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.
Psalm 45:1 (ESV)

 

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Let’s delve into Psalm 45:1, a beautiful passage that stirs the heart and invites reflection. This verse is attributed to the Sons of Korah and is often considered a love song or a psalm celebrating a royal wedding. However, its spiritual significance extends beyond earthly kings and queens. It’s for the King of kings, and LORD of lords!  The One and only always and forever. He is amazing and we should be poised to love and honor and serve Him all the days of our lives, now and this moment – always!

The Noble Theme: A King Beyond Earthly Royalty

The Heart Stirred: The psalmist’s heart overflows with a noble theme. Imagine the emotions welling up within—a sense of awe, reverence, and inspiration. This theme transcends mere human affairs; it points to something greater.

The Skillful Writer: The psalmist likens their tongue to the pen of a skillful writer. This isn’t just about eloquence; it’s about Divine inspiration. The Holy Spirit moves them to express profound truths.

Historical Context: In its original context, this Psalm likely celebrated a royal wedding, perhaps that of Solomon. But let’s look beyond the earthly king. Christians see a deeper layer—the eternal King, Jesus Christ.

Christian Reflections:

Jesus, the Ultimate King: Our hearts should overflow with praise for Jesus, the King of kings. His life, death, and resurrection reveal a noble theme—the redemption of humanity. As we recite verses about Him, our tongues become pens, writing His story on our hearts.

Skillful Writers: We, too, are called to be skillful writers. Not with ink and parchment, but with our lives. Our words, actions, and deeds should reflect the beauty of Christ. We’re part of His ongoing narrative.

Unity and Love: Just as a wedding unites two souls, Christ unites us with Himself. We’re His bride. Our love for Him should overflow, inspiring unity among believers. Let our tongues speak love, grace, and encouragement.

Meditative Takeaways:

Contemplation: Take a moment to meditate on Jesus—the noble theme. Let your heart overflow with gratitude for His sacrifice.

Reflective Questions: How can you be a skillful writer in your daily life? What words and actions will honor the King?

Unity Prayer:

“Dear Lord Jesus, our eternal King, stir our hearts with Your noble theme. May our lives be skillful pens, writing love, truth, and grace. Unite us as Your body, reflecting Your glory. Amen.”

 

 

  Remember, Psalm 45:1 invites us to participate in the love and adulation of Christ in all we say and do. It is an exercise for us to participate in as Christians and as servants of a King that is worthy!

 

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DEAR GOD: Amen! & Amen! & Amen!~

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HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER - HOPE CHURCH TORONTO WEST

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. 

And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the
patient waiting for Christ. –

2 Thessalonians 3-1-5 (KJV) 

 

There is a song —” Just say Amen!” — and it exalts the LORD for all He has done, is doing, and will continue to do for His children.  And, so it goes, “If anyone here knows He is faithful, is there anyone here who knows He is able, Just say Amen…”

The song brings tears of joy and hope to the eyes of the faithful, it is a moving and powerful song that gets me every time I hear it-and most of all, it is so true.

Almost everyone has a story to tell and moments that led up to that story, and currently living out that story in heights of glory for the LORD thanks to His grace and love.

Giving Him glory and praise and saying Amen to all He is and continues to be it a joyful and fantastic way of spending our time during our life.  He is the center of all that we are, all that we do, and all that we see, hear, taste, feel and experience.  When we walk with Him and hold onto His ways and listen to His voice, we will be spiritually enacted and cohesively react according to the principles of the Word -and Him.

Joyful, Joyful, and so amazing is my Lord and His love for me!

Hold Him in your heart, mind, and soul.  Think of Him and ask Him for guidance in all that you do.

And think back about what He has done in your life.  When you pray, reflect on your blessings and how He HAS blessed you over and over. Think of the times He has moved mightily in your life -before complaining about “but He isn’t hearing my prayers now.”  No.  That’s not so!  He listens to the cries of His children.  He knows our needs.  And He does hear always.   It has to be in His time, and according to His will.

So, think back to all He has done for you, or someone you love or know.  And, then realize that He is there for us always and always will be. I invite you to just be patient and continue giving Him praise, glory and obedience in reflection of His love and His will, today and all the days on earth, and then eventually into the glorious entrance of heaven where we will live on in eternity!

“Thank You Lord, I know You are able, and You are faithful, and You are mighty, and You are powerful, and thank You for Your steadfast love, endurance and compassion, I love You now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May the realization and comfort of this powerful verse bring about a personal reflection as you acknowledge and thank the LORD for all He has done in your life and continues to do, may you ascribe to His Word and His ways, and most of all – give Him unending thanks and glory!

DEAR GOD: We Are All Equal In Your Eyes~

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Everyone Is Equal Jesus Christ Quote - Jesus - T-Shirt | TeePublic

Rahab’s Story

In the ancient walls of Jericho, there lived a woman named Rahab, whose story is told in the book of Joshua, chapters 2 and 6. Despite her implied reputation- Rahab played a pivotal role in the Israelites’ conquest of the city.

When Joshua sent two spies to assess Jericho, Rahab hid them from the king’s men, recognizing the power of their God, Yahweh. She declared, “For the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath” (Joshua 2:11, NKJV).

Christ’s Love and Forgiveness

Rahab’s actions prefigure the love and forgiveness central to Christ’s message. Just as she extended protection to the spies, Christ offers salvation to all, regardless of past transgressions. Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.”

Loyalty and Morality

Rahab’s loyalty to the God of Israel and her moral choice to support His people demonstrate her righteousness. Her faith and deeds earned her a place among the ancestors of Jesus (Matthew 1:5), illustrating how God honors those who are faithful to Him.

Moral of the Story

The moral of Rahab’s story is that faith and righteous actions can lead to redemption. Her legacy teaches us that our background does not define our future in the eyes of God. In fact, it doesn’t define who we are according to Christ, we are ALL equal in His sight. And we are all forgiven by His love and blood that washed us clean. We are no better than the other. And no one is lower than the other – according to Christ – we are all the same!

Reflective Questions

  1. How can we show loyalty to God in our daily lives?
  2. What does Rahab’s inclusion in the genealogy of Christ teach us about God’s view of all individuals?

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Rahab, who showed us that faith in You can transform lives. Help us to live with the same courage and conviction, extending Your love and forgiveness to others. In Jesus precious name we pray, Amen.”

I hope this post will offer some deep thinking into the roles in our lives, and that it will provide a thoughtful reflection on Rahab’s story and its significance in the Christian faith. The Holy Bible is filled with God’s wisdom and love – please feel free to explore and delve into the Word and voice of God! 

 

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Forgive Each Other~

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David Platt Quote: “Forgiveness is God’s greatest gift because it meets ...

Forgiveness is a divine attribute, often emphasized in the teachings of Christianity as a pathway to spiritual liberation and eternal life. The Bible offers profound insights into the nature of forgiveness and its indispensable role in our spiritual journey.

The Essence of Forgiveness- Forgiveness is not merely an act but a state of heart and mind that reflects the grace of God. Ephesians 4:32 implores us to be “kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” This truly sets the stage for what we are supposed to do as Christians, this verse encapsulates the essence of Christian forgiveness: a reflection of His Divine and intimate and unmerited mercy.

The Mandate to Forgive- In Mark 11:25, we are instructed, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” This directive makes it crystal clear that our forgiveness is ultimately intertwined with God’s forgiveness. To receive, we must give. And it is commanded, not asked – it is from Jesus’ lips to those in attendance all those years ago, and right up to this very second in time – throughout the generations.

The Consequence of Unforgiveness- Matthew 6:15 starkly warns, “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” This particular implication is starkly profound; our salvation hinges on our capacity to forgive. It is a prerequisite for entering heaven, as unforgiveness is a barrier between the soul and God. The barrier of unforgiveness is easy to break down. All we have to do is FORGIVE others, as God will forgive us. If we don’t there is going to be an impasse in Heaven come judgement day. There are several passages in the Bible that ascribe to that message. Have you read them lately?

The Power of Forgiveness -Forgiveness has the power to transform lives. It liberates the forgiver from the chains of bitterness and grants the forgiven a chance for redemption. Colossians 3:13 encourages us to “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” It is a call to emulate Christ’s boundless forgiveness. It is a call and His voice of reason reaching out to us – offering us the opportunity to be with Him forever in the Eternity. It is the branch that will connect us to Christ forever when we are called home one day. Repentance and forgiveness and embracing our Savior Jesus Christ – that is our golden ticket into the realm of Heaven and eternity.

Conclusion -In conclusion, forgiveness is not optional but essential for those who seek Heaven. It is a divine and direct command, a moral imperative, and a spiritual necessity. As we forgive, we mirror the love of Christ and open the doors to God’s Kingdom. The door are thrown wide open for us to step inside, once we listen to and fulfill His commandments.

Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door to Eternal peace and communion with our Divine Father of mercy and love. Let us hold fast to this truth and walk the path of forgiveness, for it is the way to Heaven, and a securing a seat at the Lamb’s banquet!

Prayer for Forgiveness –

“Dear Father, we come before You seeking the strength to forgive, as You have forgiven us. Grant us tender hearts that readily release any grudges and embrace Your command to love. May our forgiveness be a testament to Your mercy, leading us closer to You and the promise of heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Example Of Righteous Anger~

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New Testament 2, Lesson 2: Jesus Clears the Temple - Seeds of Faith Podcast

And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 13 He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.”  –
Matthew 21:12-13 (ESV)

Jesus’ Righteous Anger
Jesus clears the temple and chastises the moneychangers. His righteous anger was palpable in this moment. Taking a corded whip to the sinners, sellers of animals, and money changers, chasing them from His Father’s house of worship.

This Holy Week that leads up to Good Friday, and the Resurrection of Christ – let’s all take time to reflect on His love, and His work, and His mission.

What is the most outstanding thing you can say about Jesus? How do you feel about His righteous anger chasing the merchants out of His Father’s house?

Reflect on inner righteousness and the need for true worship. Continue this pattern of reflection and prayer throughout the week, culminating in Resurrection Sunday. Truly devoting your time and thoughts and expressions of love to the LORD. Think about Jesus’ actions, and why He acted the way He did.

Jesus’ anger is a facet of His divine character, exemplifying His intolerance for sin and injustice. Unlike human anger, which can stem from selfish motives, Jesus’ anger is always pure and directed towards actions that contradict God’s holy standards.

For instance, when Jesus cleared the temple of money changers, His anger was not a loss of control but a deliberate response to the desecration of a sacred space.

This act of cleansing was a powerful statement against the exploitation within the house of worship and a call to honor God with sincerity and reverence.

Jesus’ Unconditional Love
In stark contrast to His righteous anger, Jesus’ love is the epitome of grace and mercy. His love is proactive, sacrificial, and inclusive, extending even to those who opposed Him.

Jesus demonstrated this love vividly when He washed the feet of His disciples, including Judas, who would betray Him. This humble act serves as a profound lesson in servitude and unconditional love.

Moreover, His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where He bore the sins of humanity, stands as the greatest testament to His love. Jesus’ love is not passive; it seeks out the lost, heals the broken, and restores the repentant

Reflecting on Jesus’ life, we find a perfect balance between His zeal for God’s holiness and His compassion for humanity. His actions and teachings guide us to live lives that honor God and serve others with a heart full of love. And when doing so, we are His ultimate vessels in fulfilling His Words in Matthew 28:20 “Go out and teach the gospel to all the nations, and lo I am with you always, even until the end of the age…”

May His love show us, lead us, and guide us in the purpose of our lives according to His will, this week and all the days of our lives.

Closing prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, I stand in awe of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who embodies both righteous anger against sin and boundless love for sinners. Teach me to emulate His passion for justice and His compassion for people. May I always be zealous for Your house and tender towards Your creation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” 🙏

 

 

 

 

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DEAR GOD: Your Divine Love Amazes Me~

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The Love of God - Lyrics, Hymn Meaning and Story

The Embrace of Divine Love: A Reflection on God’s Unwavering Forgiveness

In the tapestry of human existence, the threads of divine love and forgiveness are interwoven with the very essence of our being. God’s love, a beacon of hope in the tumultuous sea of life, shines forth, guiding us back to the harbor of His grace. This love is not a fleeting sentiment but an enduring promise, a testament to the boundless compassion that forgives and embraces us, His children, despite our transgressions.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

The narrative of humanity is marked by imperfection; we stumble and fall, wander and stray. Yet, in the midst of our failings, the Creator’s forgiveness remains unwavering, a constant invitation to return to the fold. It is a forgiveness that does not keep a tally of wrongs but offers a clean slate, time and again.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

God’s forgiveness is not merely an act of erasing our misdeeds; it is an act of restoration. It breathes new life into our weary souls, mends our broken spirits, and renews our strength to rise above our human frailties. In His forgiveness, we find the courage to forgive ourselves and others, to let go of the chains of guilt and embrace the freedom of redemption.

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will He harbor His anger forever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” (Psalm 103:8-10)

As we navigate the journey of life, let us hold fast to the truth of God’s enduring love and unwavering forgiveness. May we reflect His love in our actions, extend His forgiveness to our neighbors, and embody the grace that has been so generously bestowed upon us. For in the heart of the divine, we are forever cherished, forever forgiven, and forever held in the embrace of a love that knows no end.

This essay reflects on the profound nature of God’s love and forgiveness, drawing from the rich well of scriptural wisdom.

May it inspire a deeper appreciation for the divine mercy that surrounds us each day, only offered by and through Jesus Christ. Amen!  🙌

“Father, thank You for Your unsurpassed and altruistic love, Your heart and gentle ways surround me daily, I am in constant awe of Your Omnipotence and brilliant Light, may I be led daily by Your grace, Your Word, and Your direction, may I walk humbly and with a gracious manner, and be a reflection of You in my actions, words, and thoughts, may I walk the path of righteousness in and of You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: You Are My Rock & All Else~

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My Rock, Fortress, and Deliverer - Psalm 18:2 - A Clay Jar

I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”
–Psalm 18:1-2

This verse from book of Psalms is powerfully moving. If you take the time to reflect and ponder on the Word, it will change your life considerably for the better. When we see what this means it should immediately bring an enormous comfort to your soul.

The LORD is my Rock! – Yes! He is just that! He is the empirical Rock of all ages. He is the strength for our souls. He is the solid foundation on which we stand.

The LORD is my Fortress! – Yes! He is just that! He is the substantial Ivory Tower of pureness and holiness that protects us from harm. That supports us from harsh elements/individuals.

The LORD is my Deliverer! – Yes! He is just that! He is the deliverer from sin. Our redeemer and our Salvation. He is the One who paid the price for our very souls. He is the One who was victorious over death, and with His blood we are delivered!

The LORD is my Strength! – Yes! He is just that! He is the strength of my being. He is the One who provides and sustains and nourishes me daily. He is the One who offers strength when I am weak, which is when He is the strongest.

 The LORD is the One I trust! – Yes! He is trustworthy! He is the One above all else that I trust with all my heart and soul. He is the only One that never disappoints or lets me down. I trust Him and Him alone.

The LORD is my Buckler! – Yes! He is just that!  He is the One who thwarts evil. He is the One that stands against the adversary. He is the One that shields me at all times.

The LORD is the horn of my salvation! – Yes! He is just that! He is the One that gave me life. That washed me clean as snow. That offers me forgiveness, and eternal life when I am called home one day. He is the LORD. And JESUS is LORD!

The LORD is my high Tower! – Yes! He is just that! He is the Tower of high and fortified structure that provides protection and defense against all of my enemies. He is higher than all the rest. He is highest of high. And He continuously watches over me.

Today, as you stop, pause and reflect on God and His enormous love for you, may I invite you to read this verse. I mean really read it, and embrace the meaning behind it. Understand it. And truly appreciate Him and His love. When we take the time to read and ponder the Word, not just rush through it. But stop and ponder on even “one verse” and what it means to you, in todays times, and how it configures into your life, you will start to grow even more so in the spirit. We can never cease to grow in the Word. And no matter how many times you’ve read it, it is always new. Because God will give you new meaning each time, and you will find something “jumps” out to you as if the very first time seeing it. That is how God operates. That is who He is. And the Word is pregnant. It grows and grows and grows.

Go ahead and see for yourself. And get ready for your roots and spirituality to deepen and grow exponentially.

“Father, thank You for Your Word, and Your love, and Your protection, may I do all according to Your will and purpose for my life, today tomorrow and all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”