DEAR GOD: I Will Serve You First All The Days Of My Life~

 

Text - Women of the Bible: Martha and Mary

Mary and Martha: A Tale of Two Sisters

In the quiet village of Bethany, two sisters, Mary and Martha, lived a life that would become a testament to the importance of prioritizing one’s life around Jesus Christ. Their story, found in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 10:38-42), unfolds during a visit from Jesus to their home.

Martha, the elder, is often depicted as the embodiment of diligent service. She welcomed Jesus into their home and busied herself with the tasks of hospitality. Her focus was on serving, a noble and necessary act, but one that left her frazzled and frustrated. Martha’s dedication to duty is clear when she approaches Jesus, saying, But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore, tell her to help me.” Luke 10:40 (NKJV)

In contrast, Mary represents the contemplative soul. She chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, absorbing His teachings and basking in His presence. When Martha voiced her complaint, Jesus gently chided her, “And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things.  But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42  (NKJV)

The difference between the two sisters is stark. Martha is active, concerned with the minutiae of life’s demands, while Mary is passive, focused on the spiritual nourishment provided by Christ. This narrative is not a condemnation of Martha’s actions but a gentle reminder of the importance of balance. Service is essential, but not at the expense of one’s spiritual well-being. And certainly not at the expense of overlooking what is most important, and that would be Jesus Christ and keeping our utmost self-dedicated to Him.

The Moral of Their Story

The moral of Mary and Martha’s story is timeless: the presence of Jesus should always take precedence over our worldly concerns. It teaches us that while work is necessary, it should not distract us from the ultimate goal—fellowship with Christ. Mary understood that being with Jesus, listening and learning from Him, was the most important thing she could do with her time.

Reflective Questions

  • Are we more like Martha, consumed by our duties, or like Mary, prioritizing time with Jesus?
  • How can we find a balance between service and worship in our daily lives?

“Dear Heavenly Father, Grant us the wisdom to discern the moments to serve and the moments to sit at Your feet. Help us to prioritize our days so that we may not be distracted by the world, but instead be filled with Your peace and presence. May we, like Mary, choose the better part and cherish our time with You above all else. In Jesus Christ, Amen.”

May the story of Martha and Mary bring balance and hope to us as we meditate upon these scriptures, to recognize the depth of importance Christianity plays in following and serving Jesus Christ, putting Him first in all things, all the days of our lives…

 

DEAR GOD: Your Forgiveness Is Testament To Your LOVE~

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The Embrace of Divine Forgiveness and Love

Throughout the history of human existence, the threads of Divine forgiveness and love are interwoven with our every experience. The concept of God’s forgiveness is a cornerstone in many religious texts, offering solace and hope to those who seek redemption. It’s so comforting to explore the depth of God’s forgiveness and His undeniable love for us, supported by scriptures that serve as pillars of faith for believers. It brings joy into the heart of the believers to realize and understand the depth of His compassion and love for us. It brings a sense of hope and light into our hearts, mind, body and soul to accept Him as our LORD and Savior.

God’s Forgiveness: A Testament to Love

The act of forgiveness is a testament to the boundless love that God holds for His creation. In the Christian tradition, the Bible speaks volumes of this through various passages:

  • 1 John 1:9 states, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This verse reassures us that confession leads to redemption.
  • Psalm 103:12 illustrates the extent of God’s forgiveness, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” It signifies the complete erasure of our wrongdoings through His mercy.
  • Ephesians 2:4-5 echoes this sentiment, “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Here, love and forgiveness are intertwined, highlighting salvation as a gift of grace.

The Moral of Forgiveness

The moral of forgiveness is not merely about receiving it but also about extending it to others. As we are embraced by God’s forgiveness, we are called to mirror that forgiveness in our interactions. Matthew 6:14-15 advises, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” This reciprocal nature of forgiveness is a moral lesson that fosters compassion and empathy within communities.

Questions for Reflection

  • How can we embody the forgiveness that we have been granted?
  • In what ways can we demonstrate God’s love through our actions towards others?
  • What steps can we take to seek forgiveness for our own transgressions?

In conclusion

God’s forgiveness and love are undeniable forces that shape our spiritual journey. They are gifts that not only free us from the shackles of our past but also empower us to live a life of purpose and connection with the divine and with each other.

 “Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You in humility, grateful for Your unfathomable forgiveness and love. May we walk in the light of Your grace, reflecting Your mercy in our lives. Help us to forgive as we have been forgiven, to love as we have been loved, and to extend Your compassion to all. Guide us in Your truth and keep us close to Your heart. Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Guide Me In All Things Everyday Of My Life~

 

Psalm 5:8 Lead me in the right path, O Lord, or my enemies will conquer ...

The verses Colossians 3:16-17 present a blueprint for Christian living, emphasizing the role of Christ’s word in guiding believers’ lives and the importance of doing everything in His name. These verses encapsulate the essence of Christian doctrine—love, wisdom, and gratitude.

The Word of Christ in Us

“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) This verse underscores the significance of Christ’s teachings as the foundation of wisdom. It encourages believers to internalize the Gospel so that it may enrich their lives and relationships with others. The use of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs suggests a community united in worship and mutual edification.

Acting in the Name of Jesus

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:17) Here, the Apostle Paul extends the principle of living by Christ’s word to all aspects of life. Every action and word should be an offering to Jesus, reflecting His love and sacrifice. The call to give thanks to God through Jesus reinforces the centrality of gratitude in the Christian faith.

Scriptural Support

The original message of these verses is supported by numerous other scriptures:

  • “So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
  • “In him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28) These passages echo the call to live a life that glorifies God and acknowledges His pervasive presence.

Moral and Reflective Questions

The moral of these verses is the call to intentional living—every action, no matter how small, should be done with purpose and in alignment with Christ’s teachings.

  • How can I ensure that Christ’s word dwells richly within me?
  • In what ways can I incorporate gratitude into my daily life?

Conclusion

Colossians 3:16-17 serve as a reminder that the Christian life is one of continuous worship and thanksgiving. By allowing Christ’s teachings to permeate our lives, we can live out our faith authentically and impactfully.

“Dear Lord, we seek to embody the wisdom of Your word as instructed in Colossians 3:16-17. May our hearts be filled with Your teachings, and may our actions reflect Your love. Guide us to live in gratitude and to do everything in the name of Jesus. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Reflecting On Your Word & Hope In You~

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“And now, Lord, what do I wait for?
My hope is in You.
Psalm 39:7 (NKJV)

Anchored in Hope: A Reflection on Psalm 39:7

In the quiet introspection of Psalm 39:7, the psalmist asks, “And now, Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.”1 This verse encapsulates the essence of hope as a steadfast anchor, not in the transient things of this world, but in the eternal and unchanging nature of God. It is a declaration that amidst life’s uncertainties, there is one certainty that remains: the Lord is a refuge and the foundation of hope.

The Bible is replete with affirmations of hope. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us of God’s plans to prosper us and not to harm us, to give us a future filled with hope. Similarly, Romans 15:13 speaks of the God of hope filling us with joy and peace as we trust in Him. These scriptures reinforce the message of Psalm 39:7, reminding us that our hope is not rooted in the visible, but in the promises of God.

The Moral of Hope

The moral lesson here is one of patience and trust. As we navigate the wilderness of our own lives, we are called to wait upon the Lord with the assurance that our hope will not be in vain. This hope is not passive; it is active trust in God’s timing and His perfect will. It teaches us to live with expectation, not for the fulfillment of our desires, but for the fulfillment of God’s plan for us.

In the stillness of our souls, we echo the words of the psalmist, seeking You as our singular source of hope. As the world around us shifts and changes, Your promises stand firm, and in them, we find solace and strength.

May we be like trees planted by the water, drawing nourishment from Your word, growing in faith and hope even when the seasons change. Teach us to wait with hearts full of anticipation for Your guiding hand in our lives.

We ask for the courage to hope beyond our understanding, to see beyond the horizon of our circumstances, and to trust in Your eternal goodness.

Reflection

  • In what ways can we cultivate a deeper sense of hope in our daily lives?
  • How does placing our hope in God change our perspective on the challenges we face?
  • What steps can we take to align our desires with God’s promises and plan for us?

“Dear LORD, may Your Word and promises secure my spirit in all I face during the day and night, may I be a humble servant set upon Your path, and ascribe to Your commandments all the days of my life, may I recognize the patterns of spiritual goodness and reflect Your light in all I do and say, this day and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May this scripture and post inspire a renewed sense of hope and trust in the Lord, encouraging you to seek His presence and promises as the ultimate source of hope in our lives.

 

DEAR GOD: We Are Victorious & Triumph Through Christ~

Christ Victorious — Newbury Christadelphians

 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:571

Victory is a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament’s tales of deliverance to the New Testament’s promises of spiritual triumph. It’s a concept that transcends mere earthly wins, pointing us towards a greater victory won through faith and perseverance.

Body In the scriptures, victory is often depicted not as a result of human endeavor but as a gift from God. Deuteronomy 20:4 assures us, “For the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”

This verse encapsulates the biblical perspective that victory is not in numbers or strength but in divine support.

The New Testament further emphasizes this by highlighting the ultimate victory over sin and death achieved through Jesus Christ. Romans 8:37 declares, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Here, Paul speaks of a victory that is not just about overcoming but about transcending; it’s about being “more than conquerors.”

Reflection

  • How can we apply the understanding of victory in faith to our daily struggles?
  • In what ways does recognizing God as the source of our victory change our perspective on challenges?

Conclusion

The essence of biblical victory lies not in the absence of struggle but in the presence of God within those struggles. It’s about the peace and assurance that come from knowing that, in the end, faith grants us victory over the greatest adversary—our own limitations. In that being said, we are ONLY victorious through CHRIST alone. If we were by ourselves, we wouldn’t need Him. But I have news for the world in those that DON’T Believe – WE NEED HIM!

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the victory You provide through Your Son, Jesus Christ. May we always remember that our strength lies not in ourselves but in You. Help us to trust in Your victory, to face our battles with courage, and to emerge more than conqueror, which only can be done in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May this post inspire and remind us of the true victory that comes from faith and reliance on Christ alone…

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Always Listening & Protecting Me~

Is God Listening to My PrayersReflections on Psalm 34:6

Psalm 34:6 states, “This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.” This verse is a profound testament to the compassionate nature of God and His unwavering commitment to those in distress. He helps all who reach out to Him. When we seek Him in earnest, He responds to us – in His timing – and according to His will- but He will respond!

The Cry of the Poor Man

The “poor man” symbolizes all of humanity in its vulnerability and need for divine intervention. The act of crying out is a universal expression of seeking help, transcending cultural, linguistic, and temporal barriers. It is a raw and honest plea, born out of a place of desperation and sincerity.

His wisdom and grace extend to all of His children!

The Lord’s Response

The response of the Lord is immediate and all-encompassing. The phrase “heard him” is not merely an acknowledgment of the cry but an assurance that the plea has been received with empathy and attention. The Lord’s hearing is an active listening, one that leads to a transformative action—“saved him out of all his troubles.”

He is merciful and kind!

Salvation from Troubles

The salvation promised is not limited to physical deliverance but extends to our emotional and spiritual rescue. The “troubles” mentioned are not specified, which allows this verse to be a source of comfort for all people that are facing various challenges, whether they be financial hardship, illness, loss, or spiritual despair.  The LORD treats us equally and responds in kind – when we are faithful.

He is our amazing LORD!

Conclusion

Psalm 34:6 is a beacon of hope for the faithful. It reassures us that no cry goes unheard, and that salvation is not a distant dream but a present reality. It encourages us to maintain a posture of humility and dependence on God, who is always ready to extend His grace and mercy.  We we actively pursue Him with contrite and ready hearts, and with mouths that cry for Him, as we worship Him with all the glory that He is due – He will ultimately respond and hold us up with His right hand of righteousness – all the days of our lives.

He is a powerful God!

Psalm 34:6 -holds a powerful and significant message -and its relevance to the human experience. It serves as a reminder that in times of trouble, one can find solace and strength in the promises of the scriptures, and in His voice!

“Dear LORD- we come before You with humble hearts, echoing the cry of the poor man in Psalm 34:6. Lord, hear our prayers and deliver us from our troubles. Your Word promises salvation, not just in the life to come, but in the here and now. We ask for Your comforting Presence to envelop those who are calling out to You in their distress. May they feel Your love and peace, knowing that You are a God who listens and acts. Save us from our afflictions, be they of the body, mind, or spirit. Grant us the faith to trust in Your timing and Your ways. Help us to see Your hand at work in our lives, even when the path is clouded by uncertainty. We thank You for Your unfailing grace and for the assurance that no plea made in earnest is ever ignored. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”


May this prayer bring comfort and hope to all who seek solace in the Lord’s embrace.

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: We Are All Equal In Your Eyes~

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: Your Peace Transcends Beyond Time~

 

Peace I Leave With You My Peace I Give You HD Jesus Wallpapers | HD ...

“Let the Peace of Jesus Christ Rule in Your Hearts”

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where chaos and noise often drown out moments of tranquility, the scripture from Colossians 3:15,Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,” emerges as a beacon of serenity and harmony. This verse is not merely a suggestion; it is an imperative, a command that carries with it the weight of divine wisdom and the promise of a life transformed.

The Essence of Christ’s Peace

The peace of Christ is unlike any worldly peace. It is not the absence of trouble but the presence of a profound assurance that transcends circumstances. To let this peace rule in our hearts is to allow it to govern our actions, decisions, and reactions. It is to submit to its authority, letting it arbitrate when conflict arises within us or around us. This peace is a gift, one that was purchased through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross and is freely offered to all who believe in Him.

The Call to Unity

Colossians 3:15 also reminds us that we are called to peace as members of one body. This is a call to unity, to live in harmony with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It is a reminder that our interactions with others should be characterized by the love and grace that have been shown to us. When the peace of Christ rules in our hearts, it breaks down barriers of hostility and builds bridges of fellowship.

The Attitude of Gratitude

Moreover, the latter part of the verse, “And be thankful,” is not to be overlooked. Gratitude is the natural response to the recognition of Christ’s peace in our lives. It is an acknowledgment that every breath, every moment of calm, every resolved conflict is a gift from above. A thankful heart is a heart at peace, one that sees the good in every situation and gives credit where credit is due.

Living Out the Peace of Christ

To live out the peace of Christ is to walk in step with the Spirit, to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit in every aspect of life. It is to choose patience over impatience, kindness over cruelty, and humility over pride. It is to forgive as we have been forgiven and to love as we have been loved. The peace of Christ compels us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

Closing Moral:

The moral of this scripture is clear: peace is not just a state of being-but instead it is an active choice, a daily decision to let the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ govern our hearts and lives. It is a commitment to reflect His peace in a world that desperately needs it.

Closing Questions:

How can we more effectively let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts in practical ways? What steps can we take to ensure that this peace is not just an internal experience but also evident in our relationships and interactions with others?

 “Dear Lord, I thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding, the peace that Your Son, Jesus Christ, offers to me. Help me to let this peace rule in my heart, guiding me in every decision and action. May I be an instrument of Your peace, spreading love and unity wherever I go. Teach me to be thankful in all circumstances, recognizing Your hand in every part of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: You Gift Me With Courage & Your Word~

 

Courage – 4TheChristianManCourage  

Deuteronomy 31:6 is a powerful exhortation and a divine promise that has resonated through the ages: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” This verse speaks to the heart of human vulnerability and the universal search for strength and companionship in the face of life’s adversities.

The call to be strong and courageous is not merely a command; it is an invitation to trust in the unwavering presence of God. The assurance that the Lord is with us, that He will not leave us nor forsake us, is the foundation upon which our courage is built. It is a reminder that our strength does not come from within ourselves, but from the One who created us and sustains us.

This promise was given to the Israelites as they stood on the brink of entering the Promised Land, a moment filled with both great anticipation and profound uncertainty. Today, we find ourselves standing at the edge of our own challenges, our own moments of transition and decision. The words of Deuteronomy 31:6 continue to offer solace and strength.

Supporting Scriptures:

  • Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  • Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Reflection Questions:

  • How can the assurance of God’s presence in Deuteronomy 31:6 change the way you face your fears?
  • In what ways have you experienced the strength and courage that comes from trusting in God’s promise to never leave you?
  • How can you apply the principles of this verse to support others who are facing their own battles?

Moral: The moral of Deuteronomy 31:6 is that true courage is not the absence of fear, but the conviction to move forward in spite of fear, knowing that we are never alone. It teaches us that our greatest ally in the face of adversity is the Divine presence that accompanies us, guides us, and provides us with the strength we need to overcome.

 “Dear LORD- I thank You for Your promise to be with me always. In moments of fear and uncertainty, remind me to be strong and courageous, For Your presence is my constant source of strength and comfort. Help me to trust in Your faithful companionship, and to extend Your love and support to those around me, In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.”

As you reflect on this beautiful verse – I pray that it will deepen your understanding of Deuteronomy 31:6 and inspire you to live with the courage that comes from the certainty of God’s eternal presence.

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Refuge & Fortress: Thank You!

Psalm 91 Prayer for Strong Protection from the Bible

 

Psalm 91, often referred to as the “Psalm of Protection,” is a profound source of comfort and assurance for many believers. It speaks of God’s providence and presence in the midst of danger and fear. When we reflect on this Psalm, we see how the LORD is in fact our Fortress and our ultimate Protector in all things, each day of our life and beyond.


The Refuge and Fortress

Psalm 91 opens with a powerful declaration of trust in God’s protection. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1).

This verse seemingly invites us to consider our own relationship with God. Do we see Him as our refuge and fortress? In times of trouble, do we confidently seek His presence, believing that He will cover us with His wings?

The Promise of Deliverance

As the Psalm progresses, it promises deliverance from the “snare of the fowler” and from “deadly pestilence” (Psalm 91:3). Reflect on the times when you felt trapped or faced a situation that seemed insurmountable. Can you recall a moment when you experienced God’s deliverance?

Fearless in the Face of Night Terrors

Verse 5 assures us that we need not fear the terrors of the night or the arrow that flies by day. In our lives, these fears can manifest in many ways—perhaps as literal fear of the dark or metaphorically as the unknowns that lurk in our future. What are the ‘night terrors’ that you face, and how do you find peace?

A Thousand May Fall

The Psalmist writes, “A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you” (Psalm 91:7). This verse speaks to the protection God offers even when calamity seems to surround us. How does this promise shape your perspective on the trials you witness or experience?

The Angelic Charge

God’s care is so profound that He commands His angels to guard us in all our ways (Psalm 91:11). This Divine Guardianship is a testament to our value in God’s eyes. How does the knowledge of angelic protection influence your daily walk?

The Lion and the Serpent

The imagery of treading upon the lion and the serpent (Psalm 91:13) symbolizes triumph over powerful and cunning adversaries. What are the ‘lions’ and ‘serpents’ in your life, and how do you confront them with faith?

The Assurance of Salvation

The Psalm concludes with God’s voice, promising salvation to those who love Him (Psalm 91:14-16). It’s a powerful ending that reassures us of the ultimate victory we have in God. How does the assurance of salvation empower you to live boldly and righteously?


Concluding Thoughts

Psalm 91 is not just a set of verses to be recited; it’s a call to live with unshakeable faith in God’s protection and provision. It challenges us to reflect on our fears, our battles, and our salvation. As we ponder these truths, we find a wellspring of courage and peace that flows from trusting in the Almighty.

 “Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the promises of Psalm 91. We ask for the faith to dwell in Your shelter and the courage to stand firm in the face of life’s challenges. May Your truth be our shield and rampart, and Your salvation our everlasting hope. In Jesus precious Holy name, we pray. Amen.”


Hopefully all of God’s Word will inspire you to find solace, and as we reflect upon Psalm 91 may we seek the presence of God as your ultimate refuge and strength….