never leaves us

DEAR GOD: I Hear Your Majestic Voice Over The Roar Of The Ocean~

by // // No Comments

Waves crashing against the rocks | 바다

The ocean depths raise their voice, O LORD; they raise their voice and roar. The LORD rules supreme in heaven, greater than the roar of the ocean, more powerful than the waves of the sea.
-Psalm 93:3-4 (GNT)

_________________________________________________________

 “The Roar of the Ocean Depths: God’s Majestic Voice”

In the ancient words of Psalm 93, we find a powerful depiction of God’s Sovereignty and might. The imagery of the ocean depths raising their voice, roaring, and the Lord ruling Supreme in Heaven evokes awe and reverence. Let us explore this verse, drawing parallels to our modern world, and discover the timeless truths it holds. The Truth of the LORD and His Word!

The Roar of the Ocean Depths

The psalmist paints a vivid picture: the ocean depths, vast and mysterious, raise their voice. Imagine the crashing waves, the tumultuous currents, and the thunderous sound echoing across the waters. In this natural phenomenon, we glimpse the grandeur of creation—a voice that transcends human comprehension. It is the voice of God who created such magnificence, but His Magnificence supersedes this phenomenon and all else!

God’s Supreme Rule

The Lord’s Supremacy extends beyond the earthly realm. His throne stands firm from eternity past, and His existence predates time itself. As we grapple with the complexities of our world—political strife, environmental crises, and personal struggles—we can find solace in the unchanging sovereignty of God. His rule surpasses any earthly power, greater even than the ocean’s roar!

The Voice of God

But how does God speak? His voice is not merely thunder and tempest. It is gentle as a breeze, whispering truth to our hearts. In the cacophony of life, we must attune our ears to His still, small voice—the voice that calms storms, heals wounds, and guides our steps. Amid chaos, His whisper brings clarity and peace. His voice speaks love!

Moral Takeaways

  1. Humility: Just as the ocean bows before its Creator, we too must recognize our place in the grand design. Humility allows us to yield to God’s authority, trusting His wisdom even when our understanding falters.
  2. Courage: When life’s waves threaten to overwhelm us, remember that God’s voice is mightier. Take courage, for the One who rules the Heavens walks beside us. And is with us always! (Matthew 28:20)

Meditative Thoughts

  • What storms rage within you? Reflect on the inner turmoil—the emotional tides that ebb and flow. Seek God’s calming presence in the midst of chaos.
  • Listen for His whisper: Amid the noise of daily life, pause. Listen. His voice may come unexpectedly—in a friend’s encouragement, a sunrise, or a quiet moment of prayer.

Powerful Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, You who command the ocean depths and rule over all creation, we bow before Your majesty. Speak to us, Lord, in the gentle breeze and the crashing waves. May Your voice drown out our foolish anxieties and doubts. Grant us courage to face life’s storms, knowing that You are greater. May we find solace in Your eternal throne, and may our hearts resonate with the truth of Psalm 93, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflective Questions

  1. How can you cultivate humility in your daily life, acknowledging God’s supreme rule?
  2. When have you heard God’s whisper amidst life’s chaos? How did it impact you?

May the roar of the ocean remind us of God’s Awesome and Mighty power, and may His gentle voice guide us through every tempest.

 Three other translations below – all emphasizing God’s might and voice is mightier indeed!

 The floods have lifted up, O Lord,
the floods have lifted up their voice;
the floods lift up their waves.
4 The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters,
Yea, than the mighty waves of the sea.
Psalm 93:3-4 (KJV)

________________________________________________

The floods have risen up, O Lord.
The floods have roared like thunder;
the floods have lifted their pounding waves.
4 But mightier than the violent raging of the seas,
mightier than the breakers on the shore—
the Lord above is mightier than these!
Psalm 93:3-4 (NLT)

__________________________________________________
The floods have lifted up, O Lord,
the floods have lifted up their voice;
the floods lift up their roaring.
4 Mightier than the thunders of many waters,
mightier than the waves of the sea,
the Lord on high is mighty!
Psalm 93:3-4 (ESV)

Ocean Waves Crashing on Rocks during Sunset · Free Stock Photo

DEAR GOD: Your Presence Is Here With Me~

by // // No Comments

 

The Presence of Jesus - United Faith Church

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. –
John 14:18 (ESV)

Jesus speaks to His disciples during the Last Supper. He assures them that despite His impending departure, they will not be left alone. Instead, He promises to return to them. This verse encapsulates both the hope and comfort that Jesus offers to His followers.

The Greek word translated as “orphans” (or “comfortless “as stated in the KJV) conveys the idea of being bereaved, abandoned, or left desolate. Jesus assures His disciples that they won’t be left in this state. His promise extends beyond mere physical presence; it encompasses His ongoing spiritual presence through the Holy Spirit.

Supporting Scriptures

To understand the depth of Jesus’ promise, let’s consider related passages:

  1. John 14:15-17: Jesus introduces the concept of the Holy Spirit as the Advocate (Paraclete) who will come after His departure. The Spirit will guide, comfort, and empower the disciples.
  2. John 14:19: Jesus acknowledges that the world will no longer see Him physically, but the disciples will see Him because He lives. His resurrection ensures their eternal connection.
  3. John 14:20: In that day (after Jesus’ resurrection), the disciples will know that Jesus is in the Father, they are in Him, and He is in them.

Moral Reflection

Jesus’ promise transcends time and circumstance. As believers, we can draw several moral reflections:

  1. Assurance: Just as Jesus assured His disciples, we can trust that He remains with us. We are not spiritual orphans; His abiding presence sustains us.
  2. Hope: Even when circumstances seem bleak, Jesus’ promise reminds us of hope beyond the visible. His return and ongoing presence bring comfort.
  3. Community: Jesus’ promise extends to all believers. We are part of a global family, connected by His Spirit.

Reflective Questions

  1. How does the promise of Jesus’ ongoing presence impact your faith journey?
  2. Have you ever felt spiritually “orphaned”? How did you experience His comfort?

“In Christ, we find our eternal home—a place where spiritual orphanhood gives way to the abiding presence of our Savior.”

Closing Unity Prayer

“Dear Lord, thank You for the promise that You will never leave us as orphans. Your presence sustains us, even when life feels desolate. Fill our hearts with hope and remind us of the eternal connection we have through Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Video: Presence of Jesus - First Baptist Church

_________________________________________________________________

May this reflection on John 14:18 encourage and strengthen our faith. 🙏