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

Pin on Words to Inspire

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

Anchored in Hope: A Reflection on Psalm 39:7

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

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

The Moral of Hope

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

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

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

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

Reflection

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

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

——————————————————————————————-

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

 

DEAR GOD: We Are Victorious & Triumph Through Christ~

Christ Victorious — Newbury Christadelphians

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reflection

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Always Listening & Protecting Me~

Is God Listening to My PrayersReflections on Psalm 34:6

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

The Cry of the Poor Man

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

His wisdom and grace extend to all of His children!

The Lord’s Response

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

He is merciful and kind!

Salvation from Troubles

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

He is our amazing LORD!

Conclusion

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

He is a powerful God!

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

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


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

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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: May I Always Be Aware Of Your Divine Will~

 

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: Trusting In The Stillness~

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.

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Handling The Evil In The World~

God's protection -Franz Hasel and Nicholai Panchuk (Part 2 of 2) - YouTube

Fret not yourself because of evildoers; be not envious of wrongdoers! For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:1-4 (ESV)

Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm that teaches us how to trust in God and live righteously in a world where the wicked seem to prosper and flourish without repercussions. Suffice to say, the LORD has eyes and ears over all in the Universe, and He knows what and who is accountable for evildoings, and He will hold them to judgement eventually.

The main theme of the psalm is to not fret or be envious of the evildoers, but to delight in the Lord and commit our ways to Him. The psalmist assures us that God will reward the righteous and punish the wicked in His time and His way. And everything is in His control. No matter how “out of control” the world seems to be at any given time. The LORD is watching and weighing in on all circumstances and reprehensible acts of violence, iniquities, debauchery, evil lusts and deeds, and all else that are an abominable in His righteous eyes and ways.

Some verses to bring encouragement to those who are in despair at this moment will follow. May they enlighten you, fill you with hope and build your confidence in the LORD, knowing He goes before us, and the battle is the LORDS. Amen.

Here is a breakdown of some of the verses in Psalm 37.

  • Verse 1: Do not fret because of evildoers, Do not be envious of wrongdoers. This verse tells us to avoid anxiety and jealousy when we see the wicked prospering. Fretting and envying only leads to anger, bitterness, and sin. Instead, we should focus on God and His promises.
  • Verse 4: Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. This verse tells us to find our joy and satisfaction in God, not in the things of the world. When we delight in God, He will align our desires with His will and grant them according to His wisdom and love.
  • Verse 5: Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. This verse tells us to surrender our plans and actions to God, and to rely on Him to accomplish His purposes. When we commit our way to God, He will guide our steps and bless our endeavors.
  • Verse 7: Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. This verse tells us to be still and trust in God’s sovereignty and justice. We should not worry or be impatient when we see the wicked succeeding, because God will eventually bring them to account.
  • Verse 23: The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. This verse tells us that God ordains and directs the path of the righteous, and He takes pleasure in their obedience. God is not indifferent or distant from His people, but He is intimately involved and interested in their lives.
  • Verse 39: But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble. This verse tells us that God is the source and protector of the righteous. He delivers them from their enemies and supports them in their difficulties. God is faithful and powerful to save those who trust in Him.

Some other scriptures that relate to the message of Psalm 37 that are there for our eyes and for us to grow strong in the fact of God’s Omnipotence are the following:

  • Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.
  • Matthew 6:33: But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
  • Romans 8:28: And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.Hebrews 10:36-37: For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE, HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY.
  • 1 Peter 5:6-7: Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Do these verses bring immediate comfort to your souls? Are you trusting God in the way He wants you to? Do you love Him fully? What are some of the ways these verses help you and your loved ones in troubled times?

“Father, I am filled with confidence knowing You are over me in all I do, I am humbly and securely filled with peace and assurance that You alone are the One in complete control. Not me, or anyone else, but You, may I submit to Your hands of mercy, and may I be guided by Your voice alone, may I always realize that no matter how the evil seem to be getting ahead, that You have the victory, and we are victorious in You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: YES-I TRUST YOU!

Proverbs 3:5-6 #17 'Trust in the Lord with all your Heart' Bible Verse

Trusting in God is a vital aspect of the Christian faith. The Bible is full of verses that encourage us to rely on God’s promises, power, and love. Herewith are just some of the verses that I find inspiring, along with my own comments.

Proverbs 3:5-61: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

This verse reminds me that God knows better than I do what is best for me. He has a plan for my life, and I can trust Him to guide me in the right direction. He knows what I need and how much I can stand in any given situation. So, He will lead me on the correct path each and every time. TRUST HIM!

Romans 8:281: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

This verse assures me that God is in control of everything that happens in my life. He can use even the most difficult situations for my good and His glory. He has a purpose for me, and I can trust Him to fulfill it. He is always on a level that far exceeds our understanding with unimpeded vision. TRUST HIM!

1 Peter 5:72: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

This verse invites me to release all my worries and fears to God. He cares about me and my problems. He is able to handle them and help me through them. There isn’t anything He can’t do or will do for me. He loves me with a love that is all consuming and powerful. He wants me to trust Him with all my concerns. TRUST HIM!

Philippians 4:6-72: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

This verse teaches me how to trust God in every single possible situation and beyond. I can pray to Him and tell Him what I need. I can also thank Him for what He has done and what He will do. He will give me His peace, which is beyond my what my mortal brain can completely absorb or comprehend. He will protect my heart and mind from doubt and fear. TRUST HIM!

Psalm 18:21: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

This verse describes God as my ultimate source of security and strength. He is my Rock, which means He is stable and reliable. He is my Fortress, which means He is my protection and Defense. He is my Deliverer, which means He is my Rescuer and Liberator. He is my Refuge, Shield, Horn, and Stronghold, which means He is my Shelter, Support, Power, and Safety. I can trust Him in any situation, because He is always there for me. TRUST HIM!

When you read the Bible are you fully engaged with the LORD? Do you feel His love and trust Him fully, and surrender yourself to Him, openly and completely?

I hope these verses and comments help you to trust God more and more. He is faithful and trustworthy, and He loves you very much.

“Father, I trust You with all of my heart and soul and mind and strength, I am Yours now and always, and I fully trust You in all I do, and know that You are my Rock and Protector and My Savior, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”