Salvation

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: You Are Our Jehovah-Rapha – My Healer~

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Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

 

“And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.”
-Exodus 15:26 

Exodus 15:26 is a verse that encapsulates the profound nature of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting His role as a healer and protector. The verse reads: “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer.”

It stands today with us as well if we follow His ways, commandments and His voice – and trust in Him. He will lead us to safety and heal our hearts and souls. We need to seek Him first in all we do.

The Covenant of Healing: This verse is set in the context of God’s covenant with Israel. It follows the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and their crossing of the Red Sea. Here, God promises to be their healer, but this promise is conditional upon their obedience and faithfulness. It’s a powerful reminder that the relationship between God and His people is interactive and reciprocal.

When we obey and align with His Word and follow Him and do all according to His will and purpose for our lives, we will be healed in more ways than one. Our body heart mind and soul is in His very capable hands.

God as Jehovah-Rapha: The name Jehovah-Rapha, meaning “The Lord Who Heals,” is revealed in this passage. It’s not just physical healing that’s in view here, but a holistic restoration—spiritual, emotional, and societal. The diseases of Egypt can be seen as symbolic of the spiritual and moral corruption that God’s people are to be delivered from.

The evil world and chaotic setting in our society today is how God will heal. He will lighten our load and highlight the path in which we should walk. He will heal our souls and wash us clean. 

Moral Implications: The moral takeaway from Exodus 15:26 is the importance of obedience and trust in God. It teaches us that adherence to God’s commandments is not merely a legalistic requirement but a path to well-being and protection from the ‘diseases’—be they literal or figurative—that afflict humanity.

As we reflect and meditate on His Word and partake of His goodness in all we do, we will see His promises come to fruition. He will ultimately heal us in the way it is most beneficial for us.  The biggest healing is of our souls that we can live forever through Christ.

Exodus 15:26 serves as a reminder that God’s desire for His people is wholeness and health. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we are responding to God’s call to obedience. Are we listening to His voice and doing what is right in His eyes?

  Reflection:

  • How can we apply the principle of obedience to God in our modern context?
  • What are the ‘diseases’ in our lives that we need healing from?
  • In what ways can we become more attuned to the voice of God?

 “Dear Lord, You are Jehovah-Rapha, our healer. We thank You for Your promises and Your faithfulness. Help us to listen to Your voice and to walk in Your ways without fail.  Heal us from diseases that plague our spirits and our societies. May we find our strength and restoration in You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: We Are Victorious & Triumph Through Christ~

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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: We’re Washed Clean By Your Love & Devotion~

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Love Mercy - Appleton Gospel ChurchIn a world shadowed by sin, Maria’s heart was heavy with regret. She had heard of a man named Jesus, whose words could heal the soul. As she listened to him speak of forgiveness, hope stirred within her. She approached him, tears in her eyes, and confessed her sins. Jesus met her gaze with compassion and said, “Your sins are forgiven. Go in peace.” This moment mirrored the promise found in Luke 7:47-48, where it is said, “Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little. Then Jesus said to her, ‘Your sins are forgiven.’”

Zacchaeus, a tax collector, was also transformed by Jesus’ mercy. Despite his greed, Jesus entered his home without judgment, leading Zacchaeus to repent and make amends. His change of heart is reflected in Ephesians 2:4-5, which states, “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.”

On the cross, a thief found redemption in his final moments. He recognized Jesus as the savior and was promised paradise. This act of mercy is echoed in Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

The adulterous woman, whom Jesus saved from stoning, and Peter, who denied Jesus but was forgiven, are testaments to Christ’s boundless mercy. Their stories align with 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

These narratives, woven with scripture, reveal the moral truth: Christ’s mercy is limitless, a gift of grace. They inspire us to forgive as we have been forgiven, to love as we have been loved, as stated in Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

In prayer, we should all seek to embody His mercy:

“My LORD -Your mercy is like a river that overflows its banks. May we immerse ourselves in Your grace, forgiving others as You have forgiven us, guided by Your love. In Jesus Precious name we pray, Amen.”

Psalm 103:10-12 assures us, “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”

DEAR GOD: Sowing Seeds Amongst Non-Believers?

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Sow Seeds of Peace

James 3:18 –

And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

 

 

How do we manage non-believers in our circle of friends?

Are we complicit if we are within that circle?

2 John 1:10 says, “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him…”

What does that scripture of 1 John mean?  Are we as Christians to shun those who are non-believers?

There seems to be a line of confliction within some scriptures that alternate back and forth between the handling of non-believers. How or what do we do when in the circle of such individuals.

Let’s try and figure this out together.

2 John 1:11 he goes on further to illustrate, “for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.”

Yikes!  Now what? Let’s continue with more scripture.

Ephesians 5:11
“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”

Ephesians above clearly expresses what we are to do. Reprove them. What does reprove actually mean? You can look it up in various places, and it more of less means the same thing.

It’s a sense of guiding someone gently, and in this case, more than likely sharing the Gospel and having patience with them, as explained in 2 Timothy below.

2 Timothy 4:2  “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.

Jesus wants us to preach and teach. Not in an overly zealot type fashion. For the Spirit is a complete and honorable Gentleman.  He would never force something upon us or be harsh with us in doing so. No. Instead, He wants us to share with those who are in the dark and are ignorant in the Word. Sadly, many people clearly do it by choice.  Still others may be due to a lack of knowledge or instruction by never having been exposed to the Gospel.

Jesus says in Mark 2:17   “They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

What do we get out of the conflictions in the Bible?  We keep delving deeper into the word, cross reference scriptures to understand the whole picture. If we were to just go with one line or two, we don’t get the summary of who God is or what His purpose for us in life is.  We don’t get to fully grasp the meaning of God’s infinite love for us and how magnificent He really is. And most of all how He longs to have us be with Him for all Eternity by following Him.

The Bible is filled with wonderment and examples of what men and women went through. The sacrifices they’ve made along the way.  The miracles that were clearly performed, the sick that were healed, and the souls that were saved by Jesus Christ crucifixion, death and resurrection.

God puts us where we should be and need to be at any given moment in time. When surrounded by others who don’t believe, we’re not to be rude, or disparaging, or hurl insults at one another. Instead, be an example of Jesus Christ by our actions, our words of encouragement, and by our unwavering faith. These are crucial elements that are inherent in His children. We need sprinkle seeds along the way under certain circumstances.

The seeds we sow are all we can do. God does the rest. It is up to the LORD to produce growth. We are the Sowers; He is the ultimate horticulturist.  God always gives the increase. We do our job, but He is in control of it all, as with everything in the Universe.

So, the next time you find yourself with a group or individuals who are non-believers, don’t be fearful. Instead listen to the voice of the Spirit, and He will let you know when and where you should “spread seeds.”  And when we do this, we will be pleasing to the LORD and doing our job as Christians.  The growth is always up to the LORD of lords.  Some will grow to incredible heights with deep roots entrenched in the Word.  Others, well…that’s up to God.

 

“Father God, help me to be a witness to Your love and mercy in all I do, and all those I encounter, I will spread the seeds, and know you are the only One who will provide growth, 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.”