Worship

DEAR GOD: Resilience and Hope in the Modern World~

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woman praying | Divine Creative Love

For the weapons of our warfare are not [carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. –
2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (NKJV)

 

Resilience and Hope in the Modern World

The Apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, particularly chapters 4 and 5, offers profound insights into the Christian experience of suffering and the unwavering hope in eternal glory. These passages are not just ancient texts but are living words that continue to resonate with believers today.

The Treasure in Jars of Clay

Paul begins by describing believers as having this treasure in jars of clay to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us1. The metaphor of jars of clay signifies our human frailty and vulnerability. In our modern context, this can be seen in the daily struggles we face, whether they be health issues, financial stress, or relational conflicts. Yet, despite these challenges, the treasure within us—our faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit—remains unbroken. This divine power gives us resilience to endure hardships, reminding us that our worth is not determined by our external circumstances.

Present Weakness and Resurrection Life

Paul speaks candidly about being hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair.

Today, we can feel overwhelmed by the pace of change, the complexity of the world, and the sheer volume of information that bombards us.

Yet, Paul’s words encourage us to remain steadfast, knowing that our current troubles are temporary and are preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison

Fixing Our Eyes on What is Unseen

One of the most powerful exhortations in these chapters is to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen

In a society that often values material success and visible achievements, this call to focus on the spiritual and eternal is countercultural. It challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God, our character development, and our service to others—things that have lasting value.

The Ministry of Reconciliation

Moving into chapter 5, Paul discusses the ministry of reconciliation, emphasizing that if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation.

This transformative message is vital in a world rife with division and hostility. As Christians, we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, promoting peace and unity in our communities.

Living with an Eternal Perspective

Finally, Paul’s assurance that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.

It provides a perspective that changes how we live in the present. Knowing that our earthly life is a prelude to something far greater enables us to live with purpose and hope, even amidst suffering.

In conclusion- 2 Corinthians 4-5 teaches us to embrace our weaknesses, to find strength in God’s power, and to keep our hope anchored in the eternal. As we apply these truths to our lives, we become beacons of resilience and hope in a world that desperately needs it.

“Dear Heavenly Father, grant us the grace to carry the treasure of Your presence in our fragile vessels. Help us to see beyond our present troubles and to fix our eyes on Your eternal kingdom. May we walk in the ministry of reconciliation and be agents of Your peace in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May we all reflect daily on the Word- and embrace the rich theological themes of 2 Corinthians 4-5 and seek to apply them to contemporary life, offering encouragement and direction for believers navigating the complexities of the modern world.  Jesus Christ peace be with you~

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: Breath of Spirit~

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 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.  (Romans 8:9)

 

Jesus tells us in John 10:10—”The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

As Christians, we need to latch onto His words, and the true meaning of His statement. He wants to give us peace and joy, that extends from His promise and experience it fully.

Most Christians understand the concept on “paper” but in reality, don’t live or accept readily the promises of Christ.  When we attach and align ourselves with Christ—comfort, peace, security and joy will most assuredly overflow.

When the Holy Spirit—also known as the Spirit of Christ—came to live with us, He was offering us His continual presence and salvation.  The Spirit comes to manifest the presence of Christ, if we accept Him.  We develop a relationship with Him that grows in depth on every level and every aspect concerning our lives.

When we let Jesus work through us let Him in and become dependent on Him, we will begin to live a purposeful life according to His will. His works will begin to assimilate into our daily life, and the temporal findings of routines become visual tangible promises of our ultimate goal, His kingdom, and eternity.

The more pronounced our belief and submission to Christ, the more likely we are to understand the concept and apply it into practice by being “pro-active” Christians.

In other words, embrace Him, trust Him, develop a relationship with Him, and watch how Your life will change for the better. This is an undeniable promise of His truth and love.

 

“Lord Help your children embrace the Spirit within and go forth for Your glory, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: What Season is This?~

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So, retirement and now what? 

According to Ecclesiastes there is a season, time and purpose for all things under heaven, while here on earth.  But sometimes, do you think, “Now what? I’ve accomplished many things; I’m getting on in years. What can possibly be next except old age and nearing death, and creaky knees, aching back, and doctors telling you, “Well— it’s natural at your age for A B C D E F G …so on and so forth!”

STOP! The worst thing you can do is sit and ponder, “what next?”  Because we know as Christians that as long as we have breath, and as long as we are here on earth, God still has plans for us!  Yes, even at “old age.”

Think about all the people who did things in their 80’s, 90’s and so on and so forth. Heck, look at Abraham!  He was 100 years old when Isaac was born to him!

Genesis 12 begins the story of Abraham (then called Abram) and his barren wife Sarah. Abraham was 75 years old when the LORD first gave Him the promise that he would father a son. Sarah was 65.  They had to wait 25 years for the fulfillment of God’s promise!

Abraham is called the father of faith (Romans 4:11–12) because of his response to God both in leaving his homeland and receiving a son in his old age.

 Genesis 15:4–5 again describes God’s promise to Abraham that his offspring would be as “the sands of the sea.” Even though Abraham was old and had no sons, he never doubted that God would do as He promised. He did not understand how such a thing could be possible, but he humbly accepted God’s word as truth.

Jesus’ mother, Mary kind of had a similar response when Gabriel visited and told her she’d be the mother of the Messiah  (Luke 1:26–38).

She didn’t c0mprehend how such a thing could be possible, since she was a virgin. But she readily accepted and never doubted God would do as He had said. This is the kind of response and the kind of deep unwavering faith that please our LORD. (Hebrews 11:6).

My point? No matter how young (David was young boy when he killed Goliath with a smooth stone! — 1 Samuel 17) or old—God has plans for us.

“Listen, observe, trust and do according to His will.

Answer the “call” when you hear Him. Readily accept and go with “Here I am LORD, use me.”

When you have that kind of attitude and are ready for His purpose, you won’t be sitting around saying, “what next?”

Are you ready to be used by the LORD not matter your age? Have you accepted assignments from Him in the past? Do you realize that as long as you are here there is still things to be done?

“Father, here I am! I love You and may Your will always be done, in Jesus name. Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: YOU ARE FIRST LAST & EVERYTHING~

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Isaiah 44:6   Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; “I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.”

The LORD’s words resonate to those who know Him. His words flow like honey to bees to His followers. His promises are like balm soothing to the souls who trust in Him explicitly.

Knowing that He “always was” and “is” and “always will be” is quite comforting to those who walk in obedience to His word. Those who adore and worship Him find pure joy in the distinctly familiar words and it echos in their hearts. And for those who realize that He was–is–and always shall be LORD, is overwhelmingly satisfying like a drink of water to one who is parched.

Meditation on His velvet words. And then take in the meaning of the words as you go through this day. It comes down to this, “HE IS WITH US ALWAYS!”

How amazing is that?

How amazing is He?

I know that I love HIM and always will!

“Father God, You are my First, my Last, My always and forever, thank You for everything You’ve done since the beginning of time, have done, are doing, and continue to do, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

Revelation 22:13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”

Revelation 1:8  “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Revelation 21:6-7  Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.

Revelation 1:17-18 When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.

DEAR GOD: Looking Forward to This Day~

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This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24 (KJV)

 

 

I’ve been a follower of Christ my whole life. I was born into a God loving family who attended services weekly.  So, it’s been a growing experience since my childhood, to young adulthood, and now my retired years. You’d think by now I’d be quite accustomed to God and His amazing ways. Heck No! You see, He never ceases to astound me.

I find myself excited and wanting to “hear” what He has to say to me on any given hour. Each day upon arising, I am grateful for another day of life. It is a gift, each moment, second or minute.  Breath is a gift. Living another day is a gift. And of these gifts, including however big or small, I am grateful. For it is only through Him, that I am who I am and where I am. He is in control, ultimately and completely.

No matter the circumstances in good health or bad. Each new day is a gift from God.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”  James 1:17 (KJV)

Are you excited when you awaken to a new day? Do you feel blessed by this gift from above?  Or are you taking it for granted?

It’s very easy to become complacent with our routines or with life itself.  But feeling an inner anticipation and asking, “God what is it you have to say to me today?” can elicit a great many emotions. And those feelings can set a standard of gaining clearer insights to His over plan and purpose for your life.

Rejoicing in His Word, and any opportunity to be inspired, and aspiring to be more pleasing in His eyes, is a really good way to live.

It brings a quintessential deep and abiding happiness, that can only come from knowing Him, and loving Him.  When we appreciate His ways, and who He is, we gain an inner knowledge that resonates within our very soul.

Listening for His voice. Meditating on His Word. Obeying Him while seeking His face, is a key component in being Christian. Knowing He is God and being tuned in to Him is rewarding and a source of comfort.

I always try to “be quiet” each day where I can zone in on any issue or circumstance that He is showing me.

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 (KJV)

And I pay attention to the spirit that lives within me. When I do this, I find tranquility and any chaotic moments are quelled as I transition to His peace and love.

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:15 (KJV)

I try to be the best I can be in all I do because I want so very much to please Him. My fondest wish is to be all I can be to honor Him. I try to walk in the Spirit and try not to react in the flesh. Of course I am human and I will fall short at times, but that’s the best of all. He loves me no matter what. And that in itself is beyond all human comprehension. That He should love me!

But He does!  And He loves you too!

When you wake tomorrow ask, “Father, what can I do for You today? How may I be pleasing in Your eyes? What are you trying to show me today my LORD?” 

 

“Dear Father, May I seek Your face in all I do, and always be mindful of Your love, patience, and will for my life, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: LORD’s Light vs Darkness~

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Old versus new light bulbs stock image. Image of recommending - 36537229

 

And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

Genesis 6:5 (KJV)

 

Evil is apparent wherever you look these days. The reality of light versus darkness is not an unfamiliar theme. In fact, it’s been going on since the beginning of time. However, it seems out of control…and it’s certainly proliferating exponentially more so than usual.

It’s everywhere. It’s on the computer, on our television screens, in news articles, all over the place. Sadly, the enemy’s influence and images are all relentless… in words, in images, in graphic videos, in music/songs.

It’s even around while shopping. Just have a look around while you are in stores. You’ll surely find the “darkness” and the suffocation of evil right there in the midst of crowds.

Don’t misunderstand. We are not to fear anything. There is no fear in perfect love as it casts out all fear. (John 4:18)

What I’m trying to convey is as children of the light (Ephesians 5:8) we are highly aware of the saturation of Satan’s influence. We are able to thwart the fiery darts and overcome any temptation we may face through the power and grace of God Almighty. (Ephesians 6:16) (1 Corinthians 10:13) 

As we meander through life we just need to be on par with God and His Word.  We need to see the light at all times, no matter how dark the hour is. When things seem hopeless that’ precisely when we as children of the God, rise up in His name and stand firm in our beliefs.  (1 Corinthians 16:13)

The enemy loses. We know that. God will always win!

Amen!

But while we’re here and undergoing the trials and tribulations of life, we’re all getting ready for a far better place. We are withstanding the slings and arrows of life to graduate into the heavenly realms when we are called to our Eternal home.

In a sense this is our “Boot Camp” 101…and we have to fight and stand secure in His light, and in His Word.  The battle is the LORD’s, but we are a huge part of His Army.  We are told to be as wise as serpents yet as gentle as the doves by Jesus. (Matthew 10:16)  And as Soldiers we need to prepare, be alert, stand guard, and aim to do all we can to thwart the enemy in Jesus’ powerful name! Amen!

“And as Christ’s soldier, do not let yourself become tied up in worldly affairs, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army.” 

2 Timothy 2:4 (TLB)

 

Are you prepared for this battle? Do you have the weapons to do so? Are you standing in the light? Have you consulted with the One and Only LORD today?

 

“LORD thank You for Your protection, light and love in a dark world Your light is ever shining and always present, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Rejoicing in You~

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Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

Romans 12:12 (KJV)

 

 

Sometimes, I wish to fully rejoice while devoting the entire day consciously, to the LORD.

What do I mean by that? I read scripture daily, pray daily of course. But to what I refer to by “rejoicing and devoting” the whole day to the LORD, is just that. I go throughout my day mindful of His Presence and think about Him in all aspects in everything I do. Which of course I do anyhow. However, in this case it is a constant pursuit in everything I encounter, all individuals I speak with, and all tasks I endeavor to take on. I put Him and His Word into perspective and incorporate it into all situations.

So, a lot more emphasis on who is actually behind my motivation, and the reasons for being able to accomplish anything in my life. Which naturally is my Abba Father, who makes all things possible.

Through Him, and for Him, and by Him, we have access and the innate ability to undergo trials and tribulations, as well as the good times.

Rejoicing and acknowledging Him, brings hope, peace and a confidence that can only come from loving and trusting Him completely, and fully.

Today, all day long, I will consciously and effortlessly glorify the LORD, in all I do. In all I say, in all my thoughts.  All day long. Amen.

When was the last time you glorified Him non-stop?  Have you ever dedicated your entire day to Him alone? Notice anything different when you make a conscious effort to give Him honor throughout the day?

 

“Father, all glory and honor and power and dominion belong to You, today…tomorrow…and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Cup Runs Over Where I Shall Dwell Forever~

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Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Psalm 23:6 (KJV)

 

I love the Bible and its contents, OT and NT, and have countless favorite stories, passages, and scriptures.  Of which I’m sure, most people have who are faithful followers. One of my favorites, in the beautiful book of Psalms would have to be Psalm 23.  The second is Psalm 91. But for this post, we will stay with Psalm 23.

Psalm 23 is prolific in its message, powerful in its content, and it sends a blanket of protection and peace, to those who read, and receive it as truth, and fully accept it as a sign of His unwavering Love, for His children.

The scripture is overwhelmingly encouraging, as we take time to read passage by passage, precept upon precept, and then fully meditate on it. Digesting the meaning and comprehending the levels of grace that is extended to each of us, from our Father of lights.

It’s beyond the mind to grasp the enormity of what this Psalm is saying, because it illustrates and depicts a God that is both merciful and loving. In fact, it engages our souls to ignite with a fiery type of love, because He loves us so very much.

This is a Psalm most individuals would associate with “funerals.”  And quite frankly, it is read at most funerals, families have the preacher recite it because they think of it as the death knell Psalm.  It couldn’t be farther from the truth.

It is showing, and telling us, that God will show us the way. He will always protect us; He will give us safe passage while here on earth.  Then it continues unto the hereafter where we “shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

It gives us hope for now, with restoration of our souls, and paths of righteousness for this very moment, and time.  And gives us hope in all things to come, when we shall return to the LORD’s arms, safely. Where we will sit and have supper with the King of kings, and where we will rejoice and be exceedingly glad, our cup runs over with love.

See what your own answers and thoughts are for the questions below.

How amazing is Psalm 23?

How amazing are His promises?

How amazing is His love?

How amazing is our LORD?

I’ve included the entire Psalm 23 for your delight. If you haven’t read it recently, why not take some time, right now, and embrace His Words. I can tell you when you do, you will undoubtedly find great comfort and anticipation for what is to come, and for what is happening right this very moment.

Listen, do you hear His voice?

 

 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

DEAR GOD: Honoring Him Every Single Day~

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 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to [God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

1 Timothy 1:17 (NKJV)

Wherever I go, and whomever I’m speaking with, be it a family member, friend or stranger, I invariably reference the LORD, in the pursuit of whatever it is I’m doing at that particular moment.

What do I mean by that?  Well, I was speaking with my neighbor last week, and we were discussing the world as it is, and a vast array of other issues, including health, politics, groceries, inflation, all kinds of stuff that is on the minds of almost everyone today.  And while engaged in this friendly banter, I said, “It doesn’t matter what’s happening, because with God in my corner, I will get through it all. Without Him, I can’t do anything, and with Him I can get through everything. Amen.”

This particular neighbor is a Christian, and so she said an emphatic “Amen” herself. However, there are times where people who hear my praise and just sigh.  Or some may say, “must be nice to have that much faith…I wish I had some.”

Well, hang on a minute right there!  Wishing?  Wishing doesn’t bring on faith. Well then, you ask, what does?

Honoring the LORD and giving Him the respect, admiration, adoration, awe, praise and submission and obedience that He alone is worthy of is a good way to begin. We honor our parents, and respect authority, and value them greatly, do we not? However, honoring the LORD supersedes all else.

Reading the Word and becoming fully acquainted with the One who loves you far greater than any other being in this entire world and has loved you way before you were even formed in your mother’s womb, is the single most satisfying deed or action we can adhere to, concerning our LORD.

Who loves us deeply, fully, completely and openly? Who has given promises that are impregnable, unbreakable, and never ending? The LORD of lords who is LORD above all. Amen!

Let’s face facts.

We can’t coerce someone to believe or love the LORD, anymore that someone can convince me “NOT” to believe or love my LORD.

Nope that isn’t how faith works. Faith is also a gift from the Father of lights, He comes knocking at our hearts, it’s up to us to let Him in.

Remember in Acts 8:9-25, when Simon thought he could buy the power of the Holy Spirit?

Faith and belief can’t be bought. God’s love can’t be bought.  Nor can our passage to Heaven be bought.

Belief is a manifestation of awareness of the LORD and a keen insight to the Spirit within. It’s the innate plausibility of understanding spirituality, versus the ornate flesh.

It’s the acceptance of knowing that the LORD is Sovereign, and no one else surpasses Him, and embraces His Omnipotence, and Gospels and commandments as reverent and all consuming.

And most important, accepting God’s only begotten Son as our LORD and Savior, affirming and confirming His death and resurrection…and looking forward to our Eternal rewards.

I want to give Him glory, and praise His name, and give Him credit all day long, each day of my life.

He is love. He is peace. He is LORD. LORD above all.

Have you given recognition to Him during any conversation today? Have you witnessed His glory in and around you this week? Do you trust Him? Do you believe in Him? Do you want peace?  If you answered yes to all of these questions, you are truly blessed indeed.  If you answered yes to some or even one, that’s a blessing as well.  Maybe tomorrow or next week, you will answer “yes” to all of these questions, and more.

But here’s the best question of all.   “Do you know and love the LORD?”

Did you hear my reply?  I think you all know what my response is.

What’s your reply?

“LORD, thank You for Your love, promises, and forever guiding me through all the issues, circumstances and ordeals of life and whatever that entails, You are with me, morning, noon, night, and never take a day off from loving me, may I always reflect on Your love, promises, Presence, and Word, and give you Glory, today, tomorrow and Forever in Jesus’ name, Amen.”