God Inspired

DEAR GOD: Keep Me From Evil & Temptations~

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Jesus in the Wilderness | Good Shepherd Lutheran Church – Yucaipa

Jesus’ Temptations in the Desert: A Modern Reflection

The narrative of Jesus’ temptations in the desert, as recounted in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, presents a profound examination of human vulnerability and divine faithfulness. This story, while ancient, speaks volumes to our contemporary struggles with temptation and the pursuit of integrity.

The Wilderness Experience

After fasting for forty days and nights, Jesus was physically weakened and vulnerable, an embodiment of human frailty. It was in this state that the devil approached Him, presenting three temptations: to turn stones into bread, to throw Himself from the temple’s pinnacle, and to worship Satan in exchange for the kingdoms of the world (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13). These temptations were not merely tests of Jesus’ resolve but were profound challenges to His identity and mission.

The Relevance Today

The temptations Jesus faced in the desert are emblematic of the choices we confront daily. The temptation to turn stones into bread represents our struggle with materialism and the desire to satisfy our immediate needs and wants, often at the expense of our spiritual well-being. The temptation to throw Himself from the temple reflects our yearning for recognition and the lure of testing God’s promises. The final temptation, to gain worldly power, symbolizes the seductive appeal of authority and control, which can lead us away from serving God’s purpose.

Scripture as Support

Jesus’ responses to the devil’s temptations were rooted in scripture, demonstrating the power of God’s Word in overcoming challenges. He countered each temptation with passages from Deuteronomy, affirming His reliance on God and His commitment to His mission (Deuteronomy 8:3; 6:16; 6:13)

Questions for Reflection

  • How do the temptations Jesus faced in the desert mirror the challenges we encounter in our lives?
  • In what ways can scripture guide us when we face our own wilderness experiences?
  • How can we cultivate a reliance on God’s Word to strengthen us against the allure of immediate gratification, recognition, and power?

“Dear Lord, in our moments of temptation and trial, remind us of Your steadfast presence. Grant us the wisdom to discern the transient from the eternal and the courage to choose the path of righteousness. May Your Word be a lamp unto our feet, guiding us through all the deserts of our lives. Amen.”

May this post invite you to contemplate the enduring relevance of Jesus’ temptations and encourage us to seek solace and strength in the scriptures, just as He did.

DEAR GOD: Greater Are You Than All Of The Universe~

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Greater is He who is within me than the one who is in the world. 1 John ...

 

Greater is He That is in You

In the epistle of 1 John, the apostle John addresses the faithful with words of encouragement and affirmation. Among the many profound truths he shares, one stands out as a beacon of hope: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4 KJV). This statement is not merely a comforting thought; it is a declaration of victory, a testament to the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.

The Indwelling Presence

The presence of God within us is a fundamental truth of the Christian faith. The Holy Spirit, who is God Himself, takes residence in our hearts when we believe in Jesus Christ. “And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us” (1 John 3:24 KJV). This indwelling is not a passive occurrence but an active engagement of God in our lives, guiding, teaching, and empowering us to live out our faith.

The Victory Over the World

The world, as John refers to it, is a system of values and beliefs that is often at odds with God’s truth. It is ruled by “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2 KJV), who seeks to lead us astray. However, the one who is in us—God Himself—is greater than any force or influence the world can muster. Our victory is not in our strength but in His power. “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4 KJV).

Living Out the Greater One

How, then, shall we live in light of this truth? We are called to abide in Him, to walk just as Jesus walked. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked” (1 John 2:6 KJV). Our daily lives should reflect the character and love of Christ, demonstrating to the world the transformative power of His presence within us.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the truth that “greater is He that is in you” impact your daily life?
  • In what ways can you demonstrate the love and power of Christ to those around you?
  • What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with the indwelling presence of God?

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, who resides in our hearts. We rejoice in the truth that You are greater than anything we face in this world. Help us to live out this victory daily, walking in faith and love. May our lives be a testament to Your power and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

I hope this post will bring individuals to reflect on the assurance provided by the knowledge that God’s Presence within us is mightier than any worldly influence. And that it encourages believers to live out their faith with confidence and to continually seek a deeper fellowship with God, according to His will and His Word…

DEAR GOD: Help Me To Be Obedient, Patient & Resilient~

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Christian Modesty: Bible Verse OTD: Obedience

The Love of Mother Mary for Christ:
A Reflection of Divine Obedience, Patience, and Attitude

The love of a mother is a profound and sacred bond, one that transcends the bounds of the earthly realm and touches the divine. In the Christian tradition, no love is more venerated than that of Mother Mary for her son, Jesus Christ. Her love is not just a maternal affection; it is a testament to unwavering obedience, boundless patience, and a gracious attitude that every follower of Christ is called to emulate.

Obedience in Love –

Mary’s journey began with an act of supreme obedience. When the angel Gabriel announced that she would conceive a son by the Holy Spirit, she responded, “I am the Lord’s servant… May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). This was not a passive submission, but a courageous acceptance of God’s will, knowing the challenges that lay ahead.

Patience in Suffering Throughout Christ’s life, Mary exhibited extraordinary patience. She pondered the angel’s words in her heart (Luke 2:19), patiently waiting for the unfolding of God’s plan. At the foot of the cross, her patience was the ultimate test as she witnessed her son’s crucifixion, fulfilling Simeon’s prophecy that a sword would pierce her own soul (Luke 2:35).

Attitude of Grace Mary’s attitude was one of grace and humility. She considered herself blessed among women (Luke 1:48) yet she never sought glory for herself. Her focus was always on her Son and his mission. Even at the wedding at Cana, her gentle nudge to Jesus, “They have no wine,” (John 2:3) showed her compassionate concern for others, an attitude that all followers of Christ should aspire to.

Reflecting Mary’s Love in our Lives As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect Mary’s love in our lives. Her obedience inspires us to listen to God’s voice and follow His will, even when it leads us down difficult paths. Her patience reminds us to trust in God’s timing, and her attitude teaches us to serve others with humility and grace.

  • How can we show obedience to God’s will in our daily lives?
  • In what ways can we demonstrate patience during trials and tribulations?
  • How can we cultivate an attitude of service and humility like Mary?

“Dear Father, may I embody the love of Mother Mary for Christ in my own life. May I be obedient to God’s call, patient in sufferings, and gracious in attitude. May the Holy Spirit guide me to live out these virtues, following the example of the Blessed Mother -Father, may I draw closer to Your Son, our Lord in all I do and say, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Divine Response~

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20 Amazing Bible Verses about God’s Power

The Resonance of Divine Response 

In the labyrinth of life’s challenges, the human spirit often finds itself ensnared by the vines of distress and despair. It is in these moments that the soul seeks a beacon of hope, a signal that its pleas are not cast into an abyss but are heard and acknowledged by a higher power. Psalm 18:6 stands as a testament to this profound interaction between the mortal and the divine: “In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.”

Let’s take time to delve into the depths of Psalm 18:6, exploring its significance and the broader implications it holds for the faithful. Through scriptural support and reflective questions, let’s journey together to understand the essence of this verse and conclude hopefully with a higher appreciation for the LORD and His Word and His unsurpassed love and mercy.

Scriptural Support

The narrative of Psalm 18 is a personal account of King David, who frequently found himself in dire circumstances, yet consistently turned to God for deliverance. The Psalm is a mosaic of thanksgiving, praise, and acknowledgment of God’s intervention in times of need. To understand the context of Psalm 18:6, let us consider related scriptures that echo its theme:

  • 2 Samuel 22:7: “In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I called. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry came to his ears.” This parallel verse from the book of Samuel underscores the consistency of God’s attentiveness across different accounts of David’s life.
  • Psalm 34:17: “When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.” This verse reinforces the idea that God is not only a listener but also an active deliverer for those who are just.
  • Psalm 120:1: “In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me.” Here, the psalmist again highlights the reciprocal nature of prayer—calling out and receiving an answer.
  • James 5:13: “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.” The New Testament continues to advocate for prayer as the response to tribulation, emphasizing its enduring relevance.

 As we ponder the message of Psalm 18:6, several questions arise that invite us to introspect and apply its lessons to our own lives:

  1. How do we define ‘distress,’ and what forms can it take in our modern context?
  2. In moments of distress, what are the barriers that prevent us from reaching out to LORD?
  3. How does the assurance that the LORD hears our cries influence our approach to prayer and adversity?
  4. What role does faith play in perceiving and interpreting the responses we receive from our LORD?

 The recurring theme in Psalm 18:6 and its supporting scriptures is the concept of the LORD’s attentiveness. It is the assurance that no cry for help, no matter how faint, goes unheard by the LORD.

This Divine attentiveness is not passive; it is an active, compassionate, and responsive presence that engages with the deepest cries of the human heart. All of His children are heard and seen and loved by our LORD.

He loves us despite our major flaws, and we as humans in the flesh have many! None of us is pure or perfect, only ONE above is- and that is why we NEED Him-daily infused into our lives. Our spirit meshed with His Spirit intertwined and immersed as one.  And His voice to guide our paths. Amen!

 “Dear Father, in the quietude of this moment, I acknowledge Your Omnipresence and the comfort it brings to my in good times and when my spirit is troubled. I’m so grateful for the promise that when I call out to You in distress, You are there to hear and to help. May I always remember that my cries are not echoes in a void vortex but are received with divine empathy. Grant me the strength to never stop trusting in Your attentive ear and the patience to await Your perfect response, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May Psalm 18:6 serve as a reminder of the ever-present ear of the Lord, ready to listen and respond to the calls of those in need…

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Protection and Being Our Shield~

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My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart - The Bible ...

For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield-Psalm 1:12 (KJV)

Divine Favor as a Shield

The verse “For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield” speaks to the profound relationship between the Divine and the righteous. It suggests that righteousness is not merely a path of moral rectitude but also a state of being that attracts the Lord’s blessings. The imagery of the Lord’s favor as a shield encapsulates the protective and encompassing nature of divine grace.

God will always inherently protect His children and followers; He is a constant shield and provider for all of us.  He is the consummate Father that covers us with love and mercy all the days of our lives – even when we sin, he loves us – and will forgive us our transgressions if we repent and have a contrite heart.

As children of faith going about our daily lives with this knowledge in place makes for a joyous living – knowing how God is with us always and is the purveyor and Father of all blessings from above.

As you go through your daily routine and tasks -give thanks to God that He is with you always, and never will leave you. He accompanies you all the days of your life! Isn’t that totally reassuring? And isn’t that something to give thanks about.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How does the concept of divine favor as a shield resonate with your personal experiences?
  2. What are the implications of viewing divine favor as a form of protection in daily life?

“Dear Heavenly Father, we seek Your favor, not as a mere desire for protection, but as an affirmation of our walk-in righteousness. May Your grace surround us like a shield, deflecting malice and guiding us to Your light. Bless us with the wisdom to discern right from wrong and the strength to uphold Your virtues, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: May I Always Be Aware Of Your Divine Will~

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Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM InternationalIn the hierarchy of angels, Archangels hold a high rank, and both Michael and Gabriel are considered to be among the chief messengers of God. Traditionally, Michael is often depicted as the defender of the faithful and a warrior against evil, while Gabriel is known as the messenger of God’s revelations.

The specific rankings of archangels can vary depending on different theological interpretations. Some sources place Michael at the top of the celestial hierarchy, as he is often referred to as the “prince of the other angels.” However, it’s important to note that in many religious texts, the exact rankings of archangels are not explicitly stated, and both Michael and Gabriel are highly revered without a clear distinction in rank.

Ultimately, the concept of hierarchy among archangels is more about their roles and functions rather than a strict ranking system. Both Michael and Gabriel serve crucial and respected roles within the divine order.

Archangel Michael, often seen as the protector and warrior, is mentioned in several biblical passages. In the book of Daniel, Michael is described as a “great prince who stands up for the children of your people” -Daniel 12:1. This indicates his role as a defender and a leader in the spiritual realm. Jude 1:9 refers to Michael contending with the devil over the body of Moses, yet he does not bring an accusation against Satan but says, “The Lord rebuke you.” This shows Michael’s respect for authority and his reliance on God’s power rather than his own.

Archangel Gabriel, known for delivering messages from God, plays a pivotal role in the annunciation to the Blessed Mary about the birth of Jesus Christ. In Luke 1:26-38, Gabriel visits Mary to bring the good news of the coming Messiah, saying, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God” –Luke 1:30. Gabriel’s words are a testament to his duty as a messenger and his presence in key moments of divine revelation.

Both archangels serve distinct yet crucial roles in the divine plan. Michael, as a warrior, fights against the forces of evil, while Gabriel, as a messenger, brings hope and news of God’s will to humanity. Their actions reflect their obedience and dedication to serving God.

So too must we as followers of Christ listen and tune into the Word of the LORD and ascribe to all that He plans for us and acquiesce to His will. We must follow Him and listen for His voice and be obedient in serving Him and Him alone. As the angels are loyal to the LORD and steadfast in their aligning with His Word, so too should we be, all the days of our lives.

In closing, we can find comfort and strength in the knowledge that the LORD is in control of all things, at all times – and that such powerful beings are part of God’s plan for the world. They remind us of the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil and the ultimate victory that lies with God, and God alone.

After all Jesus Christ defeated death, and reigns victorious – so too are we in all we do – in Christ!

“Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your protection and guidance, and know of Your archangels, Michael and Gabriel. May we find solace in Your Presence and the roles we play, and the roles Michael and Gabriel also play in Your divine plan, Grant us the courage of Michael to stand against adversity and evil, and the clarity of Gabriel to understand all of Your messages. May Your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Unmerited Grace~

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God, Forgiveness and Me – Walnut Hill Church of Christ

The Blessing of Forgiveness  

In the heart of the Psalms, we find the profound truths of human experience and divine grace interwoven in poetic harmony. Psalm 32:1, as rendered in the KJV, declares, “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” This verse encapsulates the essence of spiritual relief and joy that comes from the reconciliation with God.

The Weight of Transgression

Transgression, by its very nature, is a deviation from the path of righteousness. It is a burden that weighs heavily upon the soul, causing a rift between the individual and the divine. The Psalmist, King David, understood this all too well. In Psalm 51:3, he confesses, “For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” The constant awareness of his failings was a source of deep anguish.

The Joy of Forgiveness

Yet, the verse from Psalm 32 speaks of a blessed state, a condition where sin is not only acknowledged but also forgiven. This forgiveness is not a mere overlooking of faults; it is an active covering, a protective grace that shields the repentant heart from the consequences of its own failings. In Psalm 103:12, we are reminded, “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” The imagery is powerful—our sins are not just hidden; they are removed entirely, lost in the infinite expanse of God’s mercy.

Reflections on Grace

This divine grace is not earned; it is given freely. Ephesians 2:8-9 affirms, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” The Psalmist’s declaration of blessedness is thus a testament to the unmerited favor bestowed upon us. It is a call to humility and gratitude, recognizing that our redemption is not a badge of personal honor, but a gift to be received with a contrite heart.

Some thoughts to consider as we meditate upon this Psalm verse:

  1.  When have you experienced the relief of forgiveness in your own life, and how did it change your perspective or behavior?
  2.  How does the concept of grace, as an unearned gift from God, influence your view of forgiveness and redemption?
  3.  In what ways can acknowledging and receiving forgiveness for your transgressions lead to spiritual growth and a stronger relationship with God?
  4.   How might the principle of forgiveness described in Psalm 32:1 affect the way you interact with and treat others in your community?
  5.   Can you think of a situation where you might need to extend forgiveness to someone else? How could you go about doing this in a way that reflects the forgiveness you’ve received?

“Heavenly Father, I come before You in awe of Your boundless grace. I am grateful for the forgiveness that You offer, which covers my transgressions and restores my inner spirit. May I always cherish the blessedness of Your mercy and strive to walk in the light of Your truth. Guide me in Your ways and help me to extend the same forgiveness to others that I have received from You. In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.”

This reflection on Psalm 32:1 should invite us to ponder the depth of God’s forgiveness and the transformative power it holds. It is a reminder that in the embrace of His Perfect and unsurpassed love, we find the truest form of blessedness—a soul unburdened and a life renewed.

Are you ready to embrace Him and His unbridled love and compassion?

DEAR GOD: Unwavering Love & Loyalty to You~~

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God WILL reward you for being steadfast and loyal to HIS calling no ...

Naomi’s Unwavering Loyalty and Dedication:

  Naomi’s story, as told in the Book of Ruth, is a profound example of loyalty and dedication. Despite the loss and hardship she faced, her steadfastness and faithfulness shine through, providing us with a timeless example of godly character.

Naomi’s Loyalty to Her Family Naomi’s dedication to her family is evident in her concern for her daughters-in-law after the death of her sons. She urges them to return to their own families, yet her selfless love is met with Ruth’s famous declaration of loyalty:

  • “And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God” (Ruth 1:16-17).

Scriptural Foundations of Loyalty

The Bible speaks volumes about loyalty, often tying it to faith and righteousness:

  • “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17).
  • “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good” (Romans 12:9).

Naomi’s Dedication to God

Naomi’s dedication to God is implicit in her actions and her nurturing of Ruth, leading to Ruth’s conversion and ultimate role in the lineage of David and Jesus Christ:

  • “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour” (Proverbs 21:21).

Reflecting on Naomi’s Example

Naomi’s story encourages us to examine our own lives and loyalties. Are we as dedicated to our family, friends, and faith as Naomi was?

Heartfelt Message

Naomi’s journey from loss to redemption is a testament to the power of steadfast love and faith. Her story is a beacon of hope, reminding us that through loyalty and dedication, we can overcome the greatest of adversities.

Reflection Questions

  • How can we emulate Naomi’s loyalty in our own relationships?
  • In what ways can we show dedication to our faith amidst trials?

Naomi’s Steadfastness in Adversity

The Trials of Naomi

Naomi’s life was marked by profound loss, including the death of her husband and sons. Yet, in the face of such sorrow, she remained a pillar of strength and resilience. Her unwavering faith in God is a testament to her character:

  • “But Ruth clave unto her. And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee…” (Ruth 1:14-16 KJV).

The Loyalty of Ruth

Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi, even in the midst of her own grief, is a powerful example of the bonds that can form when we dedicate ourselves to others. Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi led to her becoming part of God’s plan for redemption:

  • “Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God” (Ruth 1:16 KJV).

The Reward of Faithfulness

The story of Naomi and Ruth culminates in the restoration and blessing of Naomi’s family line. It is a beautiful illustration of how loyalty and dedication can lead to divine blessings:

  • “So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son… And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it” (Ruth 4:13,16 KJV).

The Call to Dedication

The Bible calls us to a life of dedication, not only to our loved ones but also to God’s will and purpose for our lives. This dedication is often expressed through service and obedience:

  • “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1 KJV).

The Fruits of Dedication

When we dedicate our lives to God and His commandments, we are promised life, righteousness, and honor. This promise is not just for the life to come, but it begins here and now:

  • “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour” (Proverbs 21:21 KJV).

Closing Prayer

“Heavenly Father, I thank You for the example of Naomi. May I learn from her loyalty and dedication and apply these virtues in my own life, as I present You and Your love, and shine Your light towards others as I do all according to Your plans and will for my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: You Triumphed & Reign Victorious~

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Jesus Empty Tomb Wallpapers - Top Free Jesus Empty Tomb Backgrounds ...

  “He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’”-Luke 24:6-7:

The Triumph of Love: A Reflection on the Resurrection

In the stillness of predawn of the first Paschal, a miracle unfolded that forever altered the course of human history. The stone was rolled away, not to let the living in, but to let the dead out. Jesus Christ, who had been crucified and laid to rest in the tomb, was no longer there. He had risen, just as He said. This event, so central to the Christian faith, is not just a testament to His Divine power over death but a profound tribute to the boundless love that Jesus embodies.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christian belief, symbolizing the ultimate victory over death and the promise of eternal life.

It is a story of redemption, where the blood shed on the cross washes away the sins of humanity, offering a path to reconciliation with God. The “He is Risen” verse is not merely a statement of fact; it is a declaration of hope, a confirmation of His unparalleled Divine and perfect love, and a call to transformation.

Jesus’ journey to the cross was marked by suffering and sacrifice, a testament to His unwavering commitment to humanity’s salvation. The nails that pierced His hands, the thorns that crowned His head, and the spear that wounded His side were endured out of love—a love so profound that it chose to suffer for the sake of others. In His resurrection, Jesus did not just defeat death; He redeemed life, infusing it with purpose and meaning.

The empty tomb is a powerful symbol of God’s love. It reminds us that no darkness is too deep, no sin too great, and no despair too overwhelming that it cannot be overcome by divine love. The resurrection assures us that love is stronger than hate, life is stronger than death, and hope is stronger than despair.

As we reflect on the resurrection, we are invited to consider the implications of this miraculous event in our own lives. How does the love demonstrated by Jesus on the cross and through His resurrection inspire us to live? Are we willing to embrace the transformative power of this love, allowing it to shape our actions, our relationships, and our understanding of ourselves?

In conclusion, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just an event to be celebrated; it is a reality to be lived and embraced. It is the ultimate gift from above. It is significant and it is life altering. It challenges us to rise above our circumstances, to seek reconciliation, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to love as we have been loved. It calls us to be agents of hope in a world that often seems hopeless.

  • How can we embody the love that Jesus demonstrated through His life, death, and resurrection?
  • In what ways can we extend forgiveness and grace to others, as we have received from Christ?
  • How does the hope of the resurrection influence our perspective on the trials and tribulations of life?

  “Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your love, demonstrated so profoundly through the resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank You for the hope and redemption that this miraculous event represents. Help us to live in the light of Your love, to extend grace to others, and to be bearers of hope in a world in need. May our lives be a tribute to Your love, as we seek to follow in the footsteps of our risen Savior. Amen.”

  • 1 Peter 1:3: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
  • 2 Corinthians 5:14-15: “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”
  • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”
  • Romans 6:5-6: “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.”

DEAR GOD: Trusting In The Stillness~

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Waiting on God - YouTube~God’s Perfect Timing~ 

“Be still, and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10).

This powerful command invites us to pause, reflect, and acknowledge God’s Sovereignty over our lives. In a world that prizes speed and efficiency, waiting on God’s timing is always a profound act of faith. It requires us to relinquish control and trust in His will and His plans, even when it unfolds at a pace that challenges our human patience.

The Divine Schedule

The Bible is replete with verses that affirm God’s perfect timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1- “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” This verse reassures us that our lives are not a series of random events. Instead, they are perfectly planned and ordered by our Father above- and interwoven into our paths and life overall- where every thread has its appointed time to shine.

Similarly, Isaiah 40:31 encourages those who wait on the Lord to renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles. Waiting is not a passive state but an active engagement with faith, where we draw closer to God and gain new perspectives.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can embracing stillness enhance your relationship with God?
  • In what ways have you experienced the benefits of God’s timing in your life?

The Assurance of God’s Faithfulness

God’s promises are unwavering, and His faithfulness is timeless.  2 Peter 3:8 – “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” Our perception of time pales in comparison to God’s eternal viewpoint. He orchestrates events with precision, ensuring that His promises come to fruition at the perfect moment.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does understanding God’s view of time change your approach to waiting?
  • Can you recall a time when God’s timing differed from yours, yet the outcome was better than expected?

The Call to Action

While waiting on God, we are not called to mindless idleness. Galatians 6:9 exhorts us to not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Our waiting period is an opportunity to serve, grow, and prepare for the blessings that lie ahead. It is a time to embrace the LORD and His will and His love for us, knowing His plans for us to prosper are all part of the Divine outcome. (Jeremiah 29:11).

Reflection Questions:

  • What actions can you take during your waiting period to align with God’s will?
  • How can you encourage others who are struggling with waiting on God’s timing?

 

“My Father, in the stillness of Your presence, I seek understanding and patience. Teach me and Your children to trust in Your timing, for it is flawless and just. Help me and Your children to embrace the seasons of waiting as periods of growth and deepening faith. May I and all of Your children find strength in Your promises and joy in the journey towards Your plans for all of us,  In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

I invite you all to consider the beauty and wisdom in God’s timing, encouraging us to wait with faith and hope. May it inspire reflection and a deeper trust in the One who holds time in His hands, especially this day before “His resurrection and victory over death” Amen.