loving the LORD

DEAR GOD: You Are My Shepherd -I Shall Not Want~

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Psalm 23 Wallpaper

Commentary on the Book of Psalms

The Book of Psalms, a collection of sacred songs and poems, is a unique and vital part of the Bible. It reflects the breadth of human emotion and experience, capturing the essence of worship, lament, thanksgiving, and praise. Authored by various psalmists, with King David being the most notable, the Psalms have been a source of solace, inspiration, and spiritual strength for countless generations.

Purpose and Significance

The Psalms served multiple purposes for the Israelites. They were used in personal and communal worship, expressing the deepest emotions and thoughts of the people towards God. Through the Psalms, believers could cry out in anguish, shout in joy, seek forgiveness, and proclaim God’s sovereignty and goodness.

King David, a central figure in the Psalms, poured his heart into these writings. His words convey a profound sense of intimacy with God. Whether he was fleeing from enemies, celebrating victories, or seeking repentance, David’s psalms are marked by an unshakeable faith and trust in the Lord.

Heartfelt Words of the Psalmist

Psalm 23:1-4 (KJV): “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

This beloved psalm by David captures the essence of God’s care and guidance. It speaks to the trust and peace found in God’s presence, even in the darkest times. It promotes our spiritual growth and confidence that in our LORD we have nothing to fear. It transcends time and remains constant in the message of “hope and eternal rewards.”  It is a favorite, and although it is quite commonly read at funerals, it’s message is for those “alive” that are still here on earth with a job to perform for the LORD and His will and purpose, while we are still in our flesh bodies. Psalms is a multi-platform in terms of meanings and assurance of Christianity overall -as we look to the LORD for all things in our lives.

 

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I cultivate a deeper sense of intimacy with God, similar to that of the psalmists?
  2. In what ways can I use the Psalms as a guide for my own prayers and worship?
  3. How do the emotions expressed in the Psalms resonate with my own experiences and struggles?
  4. What specific Psalms bring me comfort and strength during difficult times?
  5. How can I integrate the truths of the Psalms into my daily life?

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  1. Honesty in Prayer: The Psalms teach us the importance of being honest with God about our feelings and struggles. Our prayers do not need to be perfect—they need to be genuine.
  2. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: The psalmists continually affirm God’s control over all circumstances, encouraging us to trust Him even when life seems chaotic.
  3. Praise and Thanksgiving: No matter our situation, the Psalms remind us to praise and thank God, recognizing His goodness and faithfulness.
  4. Seeking Forgiveness: David’s penitential psalms illustrate the importance of seeking God’s forgiveness and experiencing His grace.

Pertaining to Today’s Christians

In a world fraught with uncertainty and wickedness, the Psalms remain a beacon of hope and a guide for navigating life’s complexities. They remind us that God’s love and promises are unchanging, providing a solid foundation in an ever-changing world.

Holding on to the Lord’s Promises

  1. Prayer and Meditation: Regularly reading and meditating on the Psalms can deepen our trust in God and strengthen our faith.
  2. Community Worship: Sharing the Psalms in communal worship can foster unity and support among believers, encouraging one another in faith.
  3. Personal Reflection: Using the Psalms for personal reflection and prayer can help us remain grounded in God’s promises and love.

 Prayer

“LORD God –thank You for the gift of the Psalms, a timeless collection of songs and prayers that speak to the deepest parts of our souls. Help us to draw closer to You through these sacred words, finding comfort, strength, and guidance in our journey of faith. Grant us the honesty to express our true feelings to You, the trust to rely on Your Sovereignty, and the gratitude to praise You in all circumstances. May Your promises and love sustain us in this wicked world, and may we hold fast to the eternal rewards You have promised. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Psalm 91:1-2 (KJV): “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.”

Blessing  

May the Lord bless you with a deep sense of His presence and peace. May the words of the Psalms comfort and strengthen you, guiding you through the trials and triumphs of life. Trust in His unwavering love and hold on to His promises, for He is your refuge and fortress.

God Bless You All~

23 Psalm Wallpaper KJV - WallpaperSafari

 

 

91st Psalm. KJV DIGITAL DOWNLOAD Prayer for God's | Etsy

 

DEAR GOD: You Love Me!-Thank You!-With Love, Me~

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I Love God Wallpapers - Top Free I Love God Backgrounds - WallpaperAccess

Jesus answered and said unto him, “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” – John 14:23

This verse from the Gospel of John is a profound declaration of the intimate relationship between Jesus, His followers, and God the Father. It encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship and the promise of divine fellowship.

Heartfelt Reflection

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of love and obedience. To love Jesus is to keep His words, to live according to His teachings, and to embody His commandments in our daily lives. This love is not merely an emotion but a commitment to follow His path, even when it is challenging. It is a love that transforms us, aligning our hearts with His divine will.

The promise that follows is extraordinary. Jesus assures us that if we love Him and keep His words, both He and the Father will come to us and make their home with us. This is not a temporary visit but a permanent dwelling. It signifies a deep, abiding presence of God in our lives, offering us comfort, guidance, and peace.

Moral Thoughts

This verse calls us to examine our lives and our relationship with Jesus. Are we truly keeping His words? Are we living in a way that reflects His love and teachings? It is a reminder that our faith is not just about belief but about action. Our love for Jesus should be evident in the way we live, the choices we make, and the way we treat others.

Meditative Views

As we meditate on this verse, let us imagine the profound peace and joy of having God make His abode with us. Picture the warmth and light of His presence filling our hearts and homes. Let this image inspire us to deepen our love for Jesus and our commitment to His teachings.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I better keep Jesus’ words in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I show my love for Jesus through my actions?
  3. How does the promise of God’s abiding presence bring comfort and strength to me?

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible promise of Your Presence in our lives. Help us to love Jesus with all our hearts and to keep His words faithfully. May Your Holy Spirit guide us and strengthen us in our journey of faith. Let Your presence fill our heart and home, bringing us peace, joy, and comfort. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thoughts and Scripture to Ponder

Thought: Let us strive to live in a way that reflects our love for Jesus, knowing that His presence is with us always.

 “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” – John 14:15

 

'Psalm 18:1 I Love you Lord, My Strength' Canvas Wall Art Print - Chri ...

DEAR GOD: Just Simple Happy Memories Of Sunday~

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25 Easter Dinner Prayers and Blessings for Family and Friends

 

Acts 16:34 “And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.”

Sunday is a beautiful day, always has been for me. Growing up and while I was attending school, from first grade and on up – I’ve always loved Sundays.  It was a time of worship services, and then afterwards just a general day of rest with my family.

After Church services – I remember going home changing out of my Sunday dress and going into the yard to read or play with my dog.  My mom would have this great pot of marinara sauce with meatballs, spareribs and pieces of beef, and it would permeate throughout the neighborhood; causing people to salivate as they walked by our house. To accompany that incredibly delicious sauce was usually ravioli, or lasagna (our favorites) or baked ziti – depending on what my mom wanted to make.  Salad, antipasto – and afterwards desserts my mom made the night before-so delicious.

Acts 16:31 “And they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”

Company (family) would be over every single Sunday. My great grandmother and her son/my uncle; my mom’s mother and dad/my grandmother and grandfather; my dad’s mom and father/grandmother and grandfather; and usually most times my two Aunts, along with my sister’s friends, my brother’s friends, and at times, one of my friends.

Of course, myself and my two siblings, and my mom and dad completed the picture.  It was fun and so many laughs took place in that time of which they would visit.  I thought it would never end.

Sadly, we all got older, and my grandparents passed away, as did my dad; and my mom- but those memories live on in my heart, they are treasures of the heart.  And the Lord provided them by blessing me and my family with the opportunities to gather, and to “rest” in the love of God on Sundays.

Those are the days I recall with vivid detail – I can almost smell my mom’s sauce as of this writing, she made the best sauce in all the land!  The crowd on Sunday solidified that entirely.

God is a provider of all that we need, and He is a God of pure and true love.  It is because of the grace of God that I am able to look back and smile, and realize what an incredible family I have had, and so many friends that came and walked through our household and our lives.

Some have been called home, but their memories linger on.  They are all living with our Savior, and all of which we will see again one day.  The way that we act with family and friends, and people in general is something that will “carry over into eternity when we join them in heaven.”

The bonds we form with our family and friends, and how we treat them, will carry over into our Father’s house in heaven.  That is the only thing that we will carry over from this earth, from this world, are our righteous acts, our way of interacting with family, friends, people, strangers- that will determine our wardrobe in heaven.

Please, if any of you have a “quarrel” with someone, or if you have “heard something” that was allegedly said- don’t hold on to this, forgive and move on – it is what Christ wants us to do.  The enemy is the one that wants us to “fester” and make a boil bigger and bigger until it is about to burst causing considerable pain.  God wants you to be happy, pray together have fun together, and help each other while doing so.

I will always remember those days of my childhood, family friends, and my mom’s incredible food after the early morning Church services.  It was such a beautiful day of peace, rest, and love – just a few ways we can describe GOD!

Have a blessed day filled with peace, love and rest in God!  I pray you all have memories and treasures in your heart of which God blessed you with, and I pray you will forgive and forget if you are not speaking to someone you love.

I will see you next time,

Peace Blessings and God’s love.

“Dear LORD, thank You for all things past, present and to come, may I continue to honor and serve You with love, obedience and joy all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 Dinner Church – First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

DEAR GOD: You Are My True JOY! ~

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The Real Thing: Joy in the Lord – Meditations on God's WordThe Joy of the Lord

The joy of the Lord is a profound and enduring source of strength for Christians. It transcends circumstances and fills our hearts with peace and contentment. This joy is not merely an emotion but a deep-seated assurance rooted in our relationship with God. As we explore this joy, let us reflect on its significance in our daily lives and how it empowers us to honor God in all we do.

The Source of Joy

The joy of the Lord is a gift from God, bestowed upon us through the Holy Spirit. As Galatians 5:22 reminds us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.” This joy is not dependent on external factors but is anchored in the unchanging nature of God. Reflect on how this joy has sustained you in difficult times. How has your faith in God brought you peace and contentment?

Joy in Trials

James 1:2-3 encourages us to “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” This scripture challenges us to find joy even in adversity. It is through these trials that our faith is strengthened, and we draw closer to God. Think about a challenging time in your life. How did you experience God’s joy amidst the struggle?

Joy in Worship

Worship is a powerful expression of our joy in the Lord. Psalm 100:1-2 says, “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” When we worship, we acknowledge God’s greatness and express our gratitude for His blessings. How does worship enhance your sense of joy? In what ways can you incorporate more worship into your daily routine?

Joy in Service

Serving others is a tangible way to experience and share the joy of the Lord. Acts 20:35 reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” When we serve, we reflect God’s love and bring joy to those around us. Consider how you can serve others in your community. How does serving others bring you joy and fulfillment?

Meditative Thoughts

  • Reflect on the moments when you felt the joy of the Lord the most. What were the circumstances, and how did you respond?
  • Consider the ways in which you can cultivate joy in your daily life. What practices or habits can you adopt to remain joyful in the Lord?

Takeaway Thoughts

  • The joy of the Lord is a constant source of strength and peace, regardless of our circumstances.
  • By focusing on our relationship with God, we can experience true joy that transcends worldly challenges.
  • Worship and service are powerful ways to express and deepen our joy in the Lord.

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of joy that You have placed in our hearts. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith, finding joy in every circumstance. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and grace, bringing joy to those around us. Guide us in our worship and service, that we may honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Joy Of The Lord - Church of Pentecost

DEAR GOD: You Love Me Even Though The World Doesn’t~

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Matthew 10:22 (KJV) — Today's Verse for Friday, October 22, 2004

John 15:18-19 (ESV): “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.  If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.”

Introduction

In John 15:18-19, Jesus speaks directly to His disciples, preparing them for the inevitable opposition they will face. This passage is a profound reminder of the cost of discipleship and the reality of living a life set apart for Christ. It calls believers to reflect on their identity in Christ and the implications of being chosen out of the world.

Supportive and Moral Thoughts

Jesus’ words in these verses are both a warning and a comfort. They remind us that the world’s hatred is not a reflection of our worth but a testament to our alignment with Christ. The world’s values often stand in stark contrast to the teachings of Jesus, and as His followers, we are called to live by a different standard. This divergence naturally leads to conflict and misunderstanding.

The moral takeaway here is the importance of steadfastness in faith. Despite the world’s opposition, we are called to remain true to our identity in Christ. This steadfastness is not just about enduring persecution but also about living out the love and truth of Jesus in a world that may not understand or accept it.

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I respond when I face opposition or misunderstanding because of my faith?
  2. In what ways can I find comfort in knowing that Jesus faced the same hatred and opposition?
  3. How can I strengthen my resolve to live out my faith authentically, even when it is challenging?

Meditative Takeaways

  • Identity in Christ: Reflect on the fact that being chosen by Jesus sets us apart. This identity is a source of strength and purpose.
  • Perseverance: Meditate on the perseverance of Jesus and His disciples. Let their example inspire you to remain faithful in the face of trials.
  • Love and Truth: Consider how you can embody the love and truth of Jesus in your daily interactions, even when it is difficult.

Inspirational and Uplifting Comments

Jesus’ assurance that the world’s hatred is a reflection of its hatred for Him is a profound source of comfort. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. Jesus, our Savior, has walked this path before us. His victory over the world is our victory, and His strength is our strength.

In moments of doubt and difficulty, remember that being chosen by Jesus is the highest honor. It means that we are part of His divine plan, and our lives have eternal significance. The world’s rejection is temporary, but our relationship with Jesus is eternal.

Reflections

Reflecting on these verses, we are reminded of the transformative power of Jesus’ love. His choice to call us out of the world is a call to a higher purpose and a deeper relationship with Him. This relationship is worth any opposition we might face. It is a reminder that our ultimate allegiance is to Jesus, and our lives are a testament to His grace and truth.

Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the words of Jesus that remind us of our identity in Him. Help us to find comfort and strength in knowing that we are chosen by You. Give us the courage to stand firm in our faith, even when we face opposition. May our lives reflect Your love and truth in all that we do. Guide us, Lord, and help us to remain steadfast in our walk with You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought for the Day

“Remember that being chosen by Jesus sets you apart. Embrace your identity in Him and find strength in His love, even in the face of opposition.”

Hated by the World for Jesus! - Creekside Bible Church

 

 

DEAR GOD: Your Blessings Are A Gift – Thank You~

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Understanding the Blessing and Curses of Deuteronomy 27-28: Deuteronomy ...

 The Tale of Two Paths

In a small village nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, there lived two brothers, Jacob and Ethan. They were known for their contrasting ways of life. Jacob was a devout follower of God’s teachings, while Ethan often strayed from the path of righteousness.

Jacob’s life was filled with blessings. He had a loving family, a bountiful harvest, and a peaceful heart. He often reflected on the words of Deuteronomy 28:2, “And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God.” Jacob’s faith and obedience brought him joy and prosperity.

Ethan, on the other hand, faced many hardships. His crops failed, his relationships were strained, and he felt a constant unrest in his soul. He ignored the warnings of Deuteronomy 28:15, “But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord your God or be careful to do all his commandments and his statutes that I command you today, then all these curses shall come upon you and overtake you.” Ethan’s disregard for God’s commandments led him down a path of sorrow and struggle.

One day, a wise elder visited the village and shared a parable with the brothers. “There are two paths before you,” he said. “One leads to blessings and the other to curses. The choice is yours to make.”

Jacob continued to walk in faith, and his blessings multiplied. Ethan, moved by the elder’s words, began to reflect on his life. He turned to the scriptures and found solace in 2 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.”

Ethan decided to change his ways. He sought forgiveness and began to follow God’s commandments. Over time, his life transformed. His fields flourished, his relationships healed, and he found peace within himself.

 The Power of God’s Blessings and Cursings

God’s blessings and cursings are central themes in the Bible, illustrating the consequences of obedience and disobedience to His commandments. The scriptures provide numerous examples of how God rewards those who follow His ways and disciplines those who stray.

In Deuteronomy 28, we see a clear depiction of blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. Verses 1-14 outline the blessings that come from following God’s commandments, including prosperity, protection, and favor. Conversely, verses 15-68 detail the curses that result from turning away from God, such as hardship, disease, and defeat.

The story of Jacob and Ethan serves as a modern-day parable, reflecting these biblical principles. Jacob’s life of faith and obedience brought him blessings, while Ethan’s initial disobedience led to curses. However, Ethan’s transformation demonstrates God’s mercy and willingness to forgive those who repent and seek His guidance.

Reflecting on these themes, we can draw several moral thoughts and reflective questions:

  • Moral Thoughts:
    • Obedience to God’s commandments brings blessings and peace.
    • Disobedience leads to hardship and unrest, but repentance can restore us.
    • God’s love and mercy are always available to those who seek Him.
  • Reflective Questions:
    • In what areas of my life am I experiencing God’s blessings?
    • Are there aspects of my life where I am facing challenges due to disobedience?
    • How can I seek God’s guidance and turn towards His path?
  • Meditative Thoughts:
    • “Lord, help me to walk in Your ways and receive Your blessings.”
    • “Forgive me for my shortcomings and guide me back to Your path.”
    • “Thank You for Your mercy and love, which are new every morning.”

By contemplating these questions and thoughts, we can align our lives more closely with God’s will and experience the fullness of His blessings.

“Dear LORD – we’re grateful for Your boundless love and mercy. We acknowledge Your Sovereignty and the wisdom of Your commandments. Lord, we seek Your blessings upon our lives, our families, and our communities. Guide us to walk in Your ways, to obey Your word, and to live in accordance with Your will. Forgive us for our shortcomings and the times we have strayed from Your path. Help us to turn away from sin and to seek Your face earnestly. We pray for Your healing touch upon our hearts and minds, and for the strength to overcome the challenges we face. Lord, we lift up those who are struggling, those who are in need of Your grace and mercy. May Your blessings overflow in their lives, bringing peace, prosperity, and joy. We trust in Your promises, knowing that You are faithful and just. As we reflect on Your Word, let it be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may bear fruit in every good work and grow in the knowledge of You. We thank You, Lord, for Your unending love and the hope we have in You. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness and glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

May this prayer bring you peace and strength as you continue to seek God’s guidance and blessings

DEAR GOD: Be Thou Exalted My LORD~

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Image result for free pictures of the LORD

 

I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.
Psalm 57:9-11

 

 

 In the quietude of our hearts, we find solace in the ancient words of Psalm 57. As the psalmist lifts his voice to the heavens, we too join this timeless chorus—a symphony of praise that echoes across generations. Let us delve into the depths of these verses, seeking wisdom, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to exalt God in our lives.

 “I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations.”

Reflective Questions:

  • How often do we share our faith openly with others?
  • What does it mean to praise God “among the people” and “among the nations”?
  • Are we willing to be vessels of His praise, regardless of our circumstances?

Takeaway Thought:

In a world often divided by language, culture, and borders, our praise can bridge gaps and unite hearts. Let us sing boldly, proclaiming His goodness to all who will listen.

 “For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.”

Reflective Questions:

  • How do we experience God’s mercy in our lives?
  • What does it mean for His truth to reach “unto the clouds”?
  • Can we trust in His unwavering faithfulness even when storms gather?

Meditative Input:

Imagine standing on a mountaintop, clouds swirling around you. His mercy envelops you like a mist, and His truth pierces through the fog. In every trial, His promises remain steadfast.

Moral Views:

Mercy and Truth: The psalmist juxtaposes God’s mercy and truth. Mercy extends beyond our deserving, while truth anchors us in His unchanging character. As Christians, we strive to embody both—showing compassion to others while standing firm in His Word.

Exaltation: To exalt God is more than mere praise; it’s a posture of the heart. We lift Him high, recognizing His supremacy over all creation. Our lives become living hymns, harmonizing with the celestial choirs.

Meditative Takeaway:

As Christians, let us ascend the mountains of faith, our hearts attuned to the LORD, His Word, promises and His Heavenly symphony. In our words, deeds, and quiet moments, may we exalt the One who holds all things in the palms of His hands and knows our every longing.

 

Closing Unified Prayer:

“Dear LORD -We gather as a chorus of souls, our voices rising like incense. Your mercy, vast as the Heavens, cradles us. Your truth, unyielding as the clouds, guides us. Today, we exalt You above all earthly concerns. Grant us courage to praise You openly, sharing our faith without hesitation. May our lives be anthems of love, sung in every language, across every border. As we journey through life’s peaks and valleys, may Your mercy enfold us, and Your truth illuminate our way. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

 

May these verses and devotional be a lantern for your soul, illuminating the path toward exalting God in every season of your lives… 

DEAR GOD: Your Heart Is Merciful & Eternal~

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Lesson 8: The Heart of God - YouTube

Let us test and examine our ways,
    and return to the Lord!
 Let us lift up our hearts and hands
    to God in heaven:
Lamentations 3:40-41 (ESV)

 

The Heart’s Return:  

In the shadowed valleys of human experience, where the soul’s lament rises amidst trials and tribulations, the Book of Lamentations offers a beacon of introspection and hope. The verses of Lamentations 3:40-41 serve as a clarion call to self-examination and a return to God’s Divine grace. Let’s delve into Lamentations a little more, as we seek to unwrap the layers of these verses, with a desire to get to know our LORD further, and grasping to His every Word, as we listen to His voice in all that we do and say, each day of our lives.

Moral Lesson:

Lamentations 3:40-41 implores us to “search and try our ways and turn again to the LORD. Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens.” These words echo the importance and critical benefits of self-reflection and repentance. It is a call to sift through the debris of our actions, to discern the missteps, and to realign our path with that of righteousness. The lesson the Word brings to us here is not merely about recognition of wrongdoing- but about the transformative act of returning to the Lord, with a contrite and humble heart that accepts Him fully and wholly on every level of our lives, today and always.

Reflective Questions:

As we ponder the depths of these verses, let us ask ourselves: “In what ways if any, have I strayed from my values? How can I restore harmony between my actions and my spiritual beliefs?”

An Exercise for Reflection:

Take a moment to retreat into a space of solitude and silence, in the LORD’s Presence.  With a pen and paper, list the actions and choices from the past week that weigh heavily upon your conscience. Beside each entry, write down one step you can take to rectify or improve upon that action. Fold this paper and place it in a spot you will see daily as a reminder of your commitment to personal growth and spiritual renewal. This will encourage and strengthen your spiritual roots in the LORD and entrench your soul further into the depths of Christianity and God’s way, and Word. But this exercise is not one of “frivolity or perfunctory” – instead it should be of sincerity and earnest seeking to draw closer to the LORD in all aspects. We cannot fool God – He knows our hearts, and He knows what we will do and say before we even do or say it. And best of all – He loves us and FORGIVES us through the blood of Christ! Yes!

My Prayer:

“Dear LORD, In the quietude of my soul, I seek Your divine light. Guide me through the labyrinth of my ways, that I may discern the wheat from the chaff within my deeds. Grant me the courage to face the truths unearthed and the strength to amend my course. May my heart, uplifted in earnest supplication, find solace in Your boundless mercy. Renew within me a steadfast spirit and anchor me in Your unfailing love, today and all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

_____________________________________________________

 In conclusion, Lamentations 3:40-41 invites us to a profound engagement with our innermost selves, urging us to shed the layers of complacency and to embrace a life of intentional righteousness. It is in the earnest examination of our ways and the heartfelt turning to the Lord that we find the true essence of spiritual awakening and moral fortitude.

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.”

DEAR GOD: Wisdom Comes From You Alone~

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Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.
-Proverbs 18:4 (NLT)

 

Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgement. – Proverbs 9:16 (NLT)— Many interpretations of this particular verse have been at the center of discussion at a lot of gatherings. I find that its meaning suggests having utmost respect and reverence for the LORD and it’s the first primary step towards gaining wisdom and understanding of “all things” pertaining to our lifetime.

As I’ve said this verse has been analyzed and preached in various ways. I keep it simple; it means wisdom comes from a deep understanding of God’s teachings and principles. I also believe emphatically that it also reflects our own limitations, that we need to seek His guidance, no matter how little the circumstances are.

I believe it emphasizes the importance of humility, respect and a willingness/eagerness to learn as the key components of gaining and receiving wisdom.

Under the guidance of the LORD and being under His Wings of surveillance and protection, we are able to be all we are purposed to be, according to the Word and His will for our lives.

So how do we gain knowledge then? By reading the Word. It has been called by some a “Life Manual” and a “Life Preserver” for all the days of our lives.

Do you have wisdom? Do you have the “Life Manual” in hand? If not—why not?

“Father, thank You for Your Word, and the Wisdom You impart on all of Your Children who seek You, and adhere to Your Word, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”