wisdom

DEAR LORD: Service And Faithful Acts In Your Name~

by // // No Comments

Free Nursing Care Cliparts, Download Free Nursing Care Cliparts png ...

Susan’s Heartfelt Journey of Faith and Service

Susan was a woman whose love for God radiated through every aspect of her life. She lived in a small town, where she was known for her unwavering faith and her dedication to helping others. Her days were spent at the local nursing home, where she brought comfort and joy to the elderly residents.

A Heart Full of Love

Susan’s love for God was evident in her actions. She often reflected on the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:37 (ESV): “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” This verse was the cornerstone of her faith, guiding her every step.

Every morning, Susan would pray for strength and wisdom to serve others. She believed that by loving and serving those around her, she was honoring God. Her favorite scripture, James 1:27 (ESV), reminded her of her mission: “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”

Acts of Kindness

At the nursing home, Susan’s presence was a beacon of hope. She would read the Bible to the residents, sing hymns, and listen to their stories. Her compassion knew no bounds, and she treated each person with dignity and respect. One resident, Mrs. Thompson, often said, “Susan’s visits are like a breath of fresh air. She brings God’s love into this place.”

Susan’s actions were a living testament to 1 John 4:19 (ESV): “We love because he first loved us.” She understood that her love for others was a reflection of God’s love for her. Her selflessness and dedication inspired those around her to also seek ways to serve and love others.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can we show our love for God through our actions?
  2. In what ways can we serve those in need in our communities?
  3. How does loving others help us grow in our faith?

Moral Takeaways

  • True love for God is demonstrated through our actions and service to others.
  • Compassion and kindness can have a profound impact on those around us.
  • Serving others is a way to honor God and reflect His love.

Ponder Thoughts

In today’s world, it can be easy to become consumed with our own lives and forget about the needs of others. Susan’s story reminds us of the importance of selflessness and service. As Christians, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, bringing His love to those who need it most.

Scripture for the Day

“Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV)

Unified Prayer

“Dear LORD- we thank You for the example of Susan and her unwavering love for You. Help us to love You with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to show that love through our actions. Give us the strength and wisdom to serve others with compassion and kindness. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Wisdom’s Light & Gentle Might

by // // No Comments

In the quiet dawn of morning light,
Where shadows fade and hearts take flight,
A call to live with honor bright,
To walk in wisdom’s gentle might.

If you are wise and understand,
God’s ways, His loving, guiding hand,
Prove it by the life you lead,
In every thought, in every deed.

With humility, let actions speak,
In service to the lost and weak,
For in the humble heart resides,
A strength that never falters, hides.

Do good works with a joyful heart,
In every role, in every part,
For wisdom’s path is paved with grace,
A journey to a holy place.

Let kindness be your guiding star,
In every moment, near and far,
For in the acts of love we find,
A mirror of the divine mind.

So live an honorable life each day,
In every word, in every way,
For in the humble, wise, and true,
God’s light will always shine through you.

Prayer:

‘LORD -we come before You with grateful hearts, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Help us to live lives that honor You, filled with humility and good works. May our actions reflect Your love and grace, and may we always walk in the light of Your truth. Strengthen us to serve others with joy and compassion and grant us the wisdom to understand Your ways. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Scripture for the Day:

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” – James 3:17 (NIV)

 If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. James 3:17 (NLT)

DEAR GOD: Listening To Your Sound Word~

by // // No Comments

listening to God

 Hold on to the example of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Protect, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you.
2 Timothy 1:13-14 (NASB)

In 2 Timothy 1:13-14, Paul exhorts Timothy to “hold fast the form of sound words” that he has heard from Paul, and to do so “in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.” He further instructs Timothy to keep “that good thing which was committed unto thee” by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.

Supporting Scriptures

1 Timothy 6:20-21: “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called.

Titus 1:9: “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”

John 14:26: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”

Meditative Thoughts

Paul’s words to Timothy are a reminder of the importance of adhering to sound doctrine and teachings. In a world filled with conflicting messages and false teachings, it is crucial to cling to the truth of God’s Word. The “sound words” refer to the teachings of Christ and the apostles, which are the foundation of our faith. Holding fast to these teachings requires both faith and love, as they are rooted in our relationship with Christ.

The “good thing” that Paul refers to is the gospel message and the ministry entrusted to Timothy. This precious gift is to be guarded and preserved through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit not only dwells within us but also empowers us to live out our faith and fulfill our calling.

Moral Takeaways

  1. Faithfulness to God’s Word: We are called to remain steadfast in our commitment to the teachings of Christ, even in the face of opposition.
  2. Love as the Foundation: Our adherence to sound doctrine should be motivated by love for Christ and others.
  3. Dependence on the Holy Spirit: We must rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us, teach us, and empower us to live out our faith.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I ensure that I am holding fast to the sound words of Scripture in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I demonstrate faith and love in my adherence to God’s teachings?
  3. How can I be more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in my life?

 Prayer

” Father, thank You for the precious gift of Your Word and the teachings of Christ. Help me to hold fast to these sound words with unwavering faith and love. Empower me through Your Holy Spirit to guard the gospel message and live out my calling with integrity and devotion. May Your truth be a light in my life, guiding me in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

Thought for the Day

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” – Colossians 3:16

 

“BE LISTENING TO GOD!” 2/19/2019 Written by Pastor Randy Burbank for ...

DEAR GOD: Blessed Are Those Who Trust In You~

by // // No Comments

 

Trusting in God's Great Faithfulness | Sermons | The Living Word ...

 

 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” – Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV)

 Commentary:

Jeremiah 17:7-8 beautifully illustrates the profound blessings that come from placing our trust in the Lord. The metaphor of a tree planted by water signifies stability, nourishment, and resilience. Just as a tree with deep roots by a stream remains vibrant and fruitful even in adverse conditions, so too does a person who trusts in God remain steadfast and flourishing despite life’s challenges.

Supporting Scriptures:

  1. Psalm 1:3 (ESV):

    “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”

  2. 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.”

  3. Isaiah 26:3 (ESV):

    “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

Moral Thoughts:

  • Trusting in the Lord brings stability and peace, even in difficult times.
  • Our confidence in God allows us to remain fruitful and resilient, regardless of external circumstances.
  • True prosperity comes from a deep-rooted relationship with God.

Meditative Takeaways:

  • Reflect on areas of your life where you need to deepen your trust in God.
  • Consider how God’s faithfulness has sustained you in past challenges.
  • Meditate on the peace and stability that comes from being rooted in God’s love.

Reflective Questions:

  1. In what areas of your life do you struggle to trust God fully?
  2. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of trust and reliance on God?
  3. What steps can you take to ensure your spiritual roots are deeply planted in God’s word?

Closing Prayer:

“Dear LORD and Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unwavering love and faithfulness. Help us to trust in You completely, knowing that You are our source of strength and stability. Like a tree planted by the water, may we draw deeply from Your living waters, remaining steadfast and fruitful even in times of drought. Grant us peace and confidence in Your promises and guide us in all our ways. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thought for the Day

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and let His peace and stability be your foundation. No matter the challenges you face, know that you are deeply rooted in His love and care.”

Free Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart! eCard - eMail Free ...

DEAR GOD: You Are My Strength & Power Always~

by // // No Comments

In God's Strength, We Can Achieve Greater - Blues to Blessings

God is my strength and power,
And He makes my way perfect.
2 Samuel 22:33 (NKJV)

 

The Unassailable Strength of God

In the heart of the Old Testament, nestled within the historical narrative of 2 Samuel, we find a verse that resounds with the timeless truth of God’s strength and sovereignty. 2 Samuel 22:33 declares, “God is my strength and power, And He makes my way perfect,” a testament to the Divine support and guidance that King David experienced throughout his tumultuous life.

This verse is part of a longer song of praise, a psalm of deliverance that David sang to the Lord on the day when the Lord had delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. It encapsulates the essence of David’s reliance on God, not just as a source of physical strength but as the architect of a blameless path through life’s trials and tribulations.

The Bible is overflowing with affirmations of God’s strength and power. In Psalm 18:2, David echoes a similar sentiment, “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust.” This passage reminds us that our fortitude stems not from our own capabilities but from our reliance on God.

The New Testament also carries this theme forward. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul speaks of God’s grace being sufficient, for His power is made perfect in weakness. This paradoxical strength is not one that dominates or destroys but rather empowers and perfects.

Moreover, Isaiah 40:31 offers a vivid image of those who hope in the Lord renewing their strength, soaring on wings like eagles, running without growing weary, walking without fainting. It’s a promise of Divine rejuvenation for the fatigued soul, an assurance that God’s power is an ever-present source of renewal.

As we reflect on these scriptures, we see a pattern of God’s power manifesting not in the absence of adversity but amidst it. It’s a power that doesn’t prevent the storm but steadies the ship in its raging waves. It’s a strength that doesn’t remove the mountain but grants us the endurance to climb it.

Reflective Questions

  • How have you experienced God’s strength in your own life?
  • In what ways can recognizing God’s power transform your approach to challenges?
  • How does the assurance of God’s perfect way influence your daily decisions and actions?

Closing Thoughts

In the overall grand scheme of life, each action we do or apply is observed and watched by our LORD. He is the One that ultimately judge us by our actions and thoughts and ways – this is woven with Divine intention. May we rest in the knowledge that the God who created the universe is the same God who promises to make our way perfect. He is there non-stop protecting, leading, directing, guiding.  Let us walk in that perfection, not as a measure of our own righteousness, but as a reflection of His strength and power at work within us, and above all as a testament of HIS LOVE for His children – along with all of His promises in the Bible…

” LORD, You are our strength and our Shield, our Rock in times of trouble. Your power is unmatched, Your wisdom unsearchable. As we meditate on Your Word, may we find solace in Your strength and guidance on the path You’ve set before us. Help us to trust in Your Sovereign hand, knowing that You work all things for our good and Your glory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

_____________________________________________________

May this verse and post through the LORD’s wisdom and guidance bring about a deeper understanding and knowledge of the LORD’s love, and how we may apply this to our lives at this very moment…

 

DEAR GOD: Your Wisdom Fills My Soul~

by // // No Comments

God’s Wisdom and Understanding Bible Verses – Scriptures – Passages ...

Wisdom of the LORD

The book of Proverbs is a fountain of wisdom, offering guidance and insight for a life well-lived. Among its many pearls, Proverbs 1:7 shines brightly, illuminating the path to true knowledge. This verse serves as a cornerstone, not only for the book itself but for understanding the nature of wisdom and learning.

 Fear of the LORD – Reverence-Love

The phrase “the fear of the LORD” is a recurring theme in Biblical literature, encapsulating a profound respect and reverence for the Almighty. It is not a fear born of terror- but one of awe and wonder at the majesty and Holiness of God.

It is the starting point, the very beginning of knowledge, because it positions the heart to receive Divine Inspiring truths. To fear the LORD is to acknowledge His Sovereignty and to submit to His higher wisdom. And to love Him fully and unconditionally, while placing Him first in all we do!

The Beginning of Knowledge

Knowledge, as mentioned in Proverbs, is not merely the accumulation of facts or the mastery of skills. It is a comprehensive understanding of life’s principles as they relate to our Creator’s design. The “beginning” of this knowledge is akin to the foundation of a building; it is the essential and necessary base upon which all other learning is constructed. Without this rock-solid foundation, any structure of knowledge we build is unstable and prone to collapse. Such as illustrated by Jesus in the parable about the wise man builds his house upon a rock, the fool builds it on sand!

Matthew 7:24-27 –“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.  And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

Fools Despise Wisdom and Instruction

In stark contrast to those who fear the LORD, the verse speaks of “fools” who despise wisdom and instruction. The term “fool” in Proverbs does not refer to a lack of intelligence, but to a moral deficiency. It describes individuals who are obstinate and arrogant, rejecting the guidance and correction that wisdom offers. Their disdain for instruction leads them away from the path of knowledge and ultimately to their downfall.

The Value of Divine Wisdom

Divine wisdom, as revealed through the scriptures, is invaluable. It transcends the temporal and touches the eternal, offering insights that are not bound by time or culture. The wisdom that begins with the fear of the LORD is enduring, leading to a life marked by understanding, righteousness, and peace.

In conclusion-

Proverbs 1:7 encapsulates the essence of Biblical wisdom. It teaches us that the fear of the LORD is not only the beginning of knowledge, but also the foundation upon which a meaningful life is built.

 “Dear Father God, I come before You in reverence and humility, acknowledging Your infinite wisdom and majesty. I thank You for the gift of Your Word, which lights my path and guides all of my steps daily. Instill in me and your children a fear of the LORD, that is pure, leading to the knowledge and understanding that You desire for me/us. Help me/us to be seekers of Your wisdom, to cherish Your instruction, and to walk in the ways of righteousness. May my life reflect Your love and grace, and may I serve as a beacon of Your light in the darkness. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Yes – I Will Respect All Ages~

by // // 2 Comments

How do I Become an Elderly Caregiver? (with pictures)

Isaiah 46:4 “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

An Aunt of mine is currently actively dying in place at her home. She has been blessed with a fine life, and at 95 years of age is ready to go home to the LORD.

My other Aunt, her sister – is 92 years of age at home aging in place and actively caring for her older sister. They’ve not been apart since they were born. Having never married, they lived with each other their entire lives. And up until just one month ago, went out daily (the 92 year old is driving her Lexus every day!) and have all their faculties in place- nothing medically wrong!  So, all in all very blessed. Very blessed indeed.

The process of watching someone die is difficult. Of course, at this age it is expected, as no one leaves here without parting from their “flesh.” But what joy to enter in heaven as the spirit goes up to the LORD, as it is promised. Amen!

I have spoken to all of the hospice nurses, who are phenomenal human beings. Thank God for their role in preparation and providing comfort and palliative care- who offer comfort to the family as well. However, sometimes people can be a little “harsh” in terms of older patients dying.

Sometimes people will disrespect an elderly patient in ways they are not even aware of.  One disrespectful way is by ignoring them when they speak. And by ignoring the patient they begin speaking to another person in the room while addressing their medical needs. I as an experienced person in the field of gerontology my entire career working in the Nursing Home Industry, have always found this frustrating and the height of insensitivity to the patient.

  • Leviticus 19:32 “Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.”

They also seem to disregard their dignity and treat them as a non-entity. These individuals have had most of their independence stripped from them and find themselves in unfamiliar territory where workers in the nursing home are “controlling” when they eat, sleep, bathe, etc.  It’s a difficult transition.

I guess what I’m trying to convey here is. We are all God’s children, no matter our age. He loves us all. He particularly has mentioned “woe to those who take advantage of the widow and fatherless child.”  So, you can be assured He is NOT happy when people treat patients with a cavalier attitude. Nope not at all!

When you encounter an elderly individual, please know that they are not invisible, and their life is no longer useful. Instead, treat them with the respect and dignity and honor they all deserve. Recognize that most have had different roles in their lives, like spouse, mom, dad, grandparents, sister, brother, daughter and son, so on and so forth.  They are still useful and are viable until their very last breath when they are called home to their heavenly Father above.

Dignity and respect should be afforded to all individuals, regardless of age. Be humble in your approach and kind and loving as Jesus would have you do.

The next time you see an elderly person or encounter an aging family member, please remember that they are God’s children, no matter their age. And yes, they are blessed to live beyond a certain age, but that only solidifies that God still has a plan for them in their current status. That there is still unfinished work to be done, perhaps in them to reinforce their pathway to heaven. But the point is – respect them and treat them with love.

One day if you are fortunate, and God willing, – you will be the OLD person in the room. Don’t forget that, and remember God is watching!

“Father, Thank You for my aunt’s longevity, and for watching over them, I pray that You continue to watch over them both, and pray her death will be peaceful, and that the aunt left behind be comforted by Your love and knowing she will see her again one day, and I lift up all those actively dying in place at this time, for their family members to have peace and comfort, and for all those who are caring for the sick, that they have patience and respect and love for them, and for those mourning the loss of a loved one, I pray all these things in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Wisdom Comes From You Alone~

by // // No Comments

Beautiful Water Flowing Brook Over Stone Animated Gif - Download hd ...

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.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: LOVE & THANKS FOR YOUR HELP~

by // // No Comments

 

Praise ye the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exhalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. (Psalm 112:1 KJV)

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And, if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together.  (Romans 8:16-17 KJV)

 

I realize that God is with us through all kinds of scenarios and have discovered that to be true too numerous to count and today I had a moment where I was exceedingly frustrated.   My computer wasn’t recognizing my password and therefore wasn’t allowing me to get in. After several attempts “login failed…password unknown” I took a deep breath. I shut down and tried to get by safe mode and go into recovery, but my keyboard wasn’t allowing me to choose! This went on for about an hour.  I asked God for help, and His wisdom.  I called a “geek” squad, and they told me to bring in the computer and for about one hundred dollars they’d try to recover and make an attempt to get in.  However, if that failed, they’d have to install windows from scratch, and I’d lose all of my info.  I knew that myself-that is why I wanted to see if there was a way to get in without the process of reinstalling a new window.

Anyhow, to make a long story short, I remembered I had another keyboard in my garage.  I went to retrieve it, connected the old keyboard, shut down the computer and lo and behold, I was able to choose safe mode and go into recovery default!!!  Hallelujah, and praise GOD!  He helped me again.

I felt His presence with me the entire time very strongly in fact. It was His wisdom that led me to all of the circumstances to figure this out.  And behold, it was done. So, Thank You God for fixing my computer!

Which brings me to the message for this post, “no matter the circumstances, God is with us.”  He is with us and will never desert us. No matter how big or how small. Nothing is too big or too small for our God.

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9 KJV)

The significance of His Spirit and His wisdom is what keeps us “going” in all that we undertake and oversee on a daily basis.  We should never believe “we do it on our own”–He empowers us with His presence from within and guides us through all aspects thereof.

So thank You Lord for once again being there…how absolutely amazing You are! I love you so much.

Computer giving you trouble? –No problem, call God, after all who do you think taught that computer geek?

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And, if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together.  (Romans 8:16-17 KJV)

“Father, thank You for all You are and do, and thank You for Your guidance and strength, and Your wisdom and love that pours over me like a warm soothing balm, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”