God’s protection

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 Refuge & Fortress: Thank You!

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Psalm 91 Prayer for Strong Protection from the Bible

 

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

The Refuge and Fortress

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

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

The Promise of Deliverance

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

Fearless in the Face of Night Terrors

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

A Thousand May Fall

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

The Angelic Charge

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

The Lion and the Serpent

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

The Assurance of Salvation

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

Concluding Thoughts

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

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

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

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: How Great Thou Art !

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1 John 4:8 God is Love Bible Verse

The Majesty of God’s Love

In the quiet reflection of Good Friday, let’s turn our hearts to Jesus and the Holy scriptures in the Bible – Where the LORDs voice is still speaking to this very day. And where the inspired men and women in the Bible eloquently speaks of the greatness of God and His boundless love.

“O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens” (Psalm 8:1). The psalmist captures the essence of God’s majesty, a presence so profound that it transcends the very heavens. A Presence so completely consuming and powerful that we cannot stand in His Presence but fall to our knees in abject surrender and submission of His Spirit.

God’s love is woven through time, a love so great that it gave us the Earth, the stars, and every living creature. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). These prolific words encapsulate the depth of God’s love, a love willing to sacrifice for the salvation of humanity – to save us – to have us join Him in eternal rewards in His Heavenly Kingdom.

As we walk through life’s valleys and peaks, we are never alone. His love is our shield, our comfort, and our strength. “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” (Psalm 23:4). In our darkest moments, His Magnificent Presence is a beacon of hope and solace to all those who believe. To all those who love. To all those who adhere to His commandments, and His doctrine. And accept Him as their LORD and Savior!

The greatness of God is beyond our comprehension, yet we feel it in the warmth of the sun, the gentle breeze, and the kindness of a stranger. His love is the foundation upon which we build our lives, a steadfast rock that endures through the ages.

Are you standing on the ROCK? Or are you on shaky ground sifting downward into the sands of time?

“My Dear Heavenly Father, on this Somber Good Friday, we pause to acknowledge Your greatness and the immeasurable love You have for us. May we always cherish the unsurpassed gift of Your Son and strive to reflect Your love in our actions and words. Guide us in Your wisdom, and let Your light shine through us, so that we may be beacons of hope in a world of darkness that yearns for Your grace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Love Is Boundless~

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The Boundless Love of God - Preachers Corner

The Boundless Love of God

The essence of God’s love is captured in the relationship between the Father and the Son, a love that extends to all His children. This amazing great love is not merely an emotion, but an active force that has been demonstrated throughout history and recorded in the Scriptures. It extends into the streaming years of generations after generation!

God’s Love for His Son

The love of God for His Son, Jesus Christ, is profound and eternal. In Matthew 3:17, as Jesus was baptized, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This declaration not only affirms the special relationship between the Father and the Son but also sets the foundation for the love that would be extended to humanity. It is the quintessential and all-consuming love He offers every single day to ALL of His children. And to those who love Him, His provisions and blessings are endless, and beyond the scope of all human understanding!

God’s Love for His Children

God’s love for His children is vividly portrayed in the sacrifice of His Son. Romans 5:8 states, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This sacrificial love is the cornerstone of Christian faith, illustrating that God’s love is unconditional and available to all who believe. Anyone and everyone has an ‘open invitation’ to experience and be a part of the body of Christ, and guided by the Holy Spirit that dwells within all His believers!

The Bible Depicts The Support God’s Love

The Bible is replete with verses that testify to God’s love. John 3:16 is perhaps the most well-known, declaring, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This verse encapsulates the breadth and depth of God’s love, emphasizing its sacrificial nature and the promise of eternal life.

Another powerful verse is 1 John 4:16, which says, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” This verse not only identifies God as love itself but also invites us to dwell in that love, assuring us of His constant Presence. Brings to us full confidence and assurance to the Presence of His Spirit. We are able to withstand and pursue things we cannot do otherwise. It is because of His love and faithful promises, we are able to LIVE LIFE!

Conclusion

The love of God is a theme that runs deep and wide through the intricate mosaic themes of Christian theology. It is a love that knows no bounds. A love that forgives and redeems. A love that sustains and nurtures. As children of God, we are the blessed recipients, although – NOT worthy- of this magnificent love, a love that calls us to live in harmony with one another and with our Creator, our King of kings, and LORD of lord, our Almighty and Loving Father, God!

 “Father, I wish to thank You for Your great love for me, You have shown me the full extent of this love in the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May I dwell in Your love, and extend it to others, living as a true reflection of Your grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen”

May this devotional resonate with the depth of God’s love He has for all of His children.  

DEAR GOD: You Are My Lifeguard – Forever~

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God Is My Lifeguard Psalm 141:8 - YouTube

The Everlasting Watch

In the quiet moments of reflection, amidst the bustling noise of life, there is a profound truth that brings comfort to the soul: Jesus is watching over us, constantly, all the days of our lives. This devotional will attempt to explore this comforting Presence, supported by verses.

Divine Vigilance

The Bible is replete with assurances of God’s watchful eye. In Genesis 28:15, God promises Jacob, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.” -This covenant, extended through Jesus, assures us of an unceasing divine presence.

Similarly, Psalm 121:8 affirms, “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore,”– encapsulating the eternal nature of God’s guardianship.

A Personal Testament

Life is a tapestry of experiences and emotions, woven with threads of joy and sorrow. Through each season, the belief that Jesus watches over us has been my anchor. In times of triumph, His gaze has been my affirmation; in moments of despair, His sight has brought solace. This constant surveillance is not one of judgment, but of unwavering love and guidance.

Reflections on Divine Presence

The scriptures tell us that Jesus’ love is steadfast, and His watchfulness never wanes. In Matthew 28:20, Jesus reassures us, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This promise of companionship is not just for a moment or a day, but for a lifetime and beyond.

The Comfort of Constant Care

Knowing that Jesus is always with us provides a profound sense of comfort. He is all things to us -loving Presence, a royal King, a guardian angel, or lifeguard- whose eyes are filled with kindness, ready to guide us through every decision and comfort us in every trial. His watchful care is a beacon of hope in a world that can often feel uncertain and tumultuous- and at times – extremely dark!

Living Under the Watchful Eye

Living with the awareness of Jesus’ constant Presence can transform our lives. It encourages us to live with integrity, knowing that we are always in the presence of a divine and all-consuming love. It also inspires us to extend that same care and attention to others, reflecting Jesus’ love through our very own actions, and lifestyle.

As we ponder the Omnipresence of Jesus, let us take solace in the knowledge that we are never alone, and His love surrounds us all the days of our lives.

  1. How does the knowledge of Jesus’ constant presence influence your daily life?
  2. In what ways have you felt Jesus watching over and guiding you?
  3. How can we become more aware of Jesus’ presence in our lives?

 “Dear Heavenly Father, we are eternally grateful for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who watches over us day and night. May we always feel the warmth of His love and the security of His watchful eyes. Help us to live in a way that honors Your constant presence in our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

May I extend an open invitation for all to reflect and deepen your appreciation for the ever-present watchfulness of Jesus, and His love, and may it inspire you to seek His presence in every aspect of your lives. His grace and love are open to all and anyone, and He is waiting – always!”

DEAR GOD: YES-I TRUST YOU!

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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.”

DEAR GOD: No Need to Fear You Are Near~

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Do Not Be Afraid - Kristen WelchJeremiah 1:8–Be not afraid of their faces for I am with thee to deliver thee; saith the LORD.

 

 

The saying 'Be afraid, be very afraid' - meaning and origin.Fear? With God nearby?  How is that even possible?

Well, it does happen because it is a human physiological response. It’s a part of being mortal.  Our spirits are encased by this thing we call “flesh” and therefore subject to those emotions.

What about those of us who are Christians and feeling a sense of guilt when such feelings arise? Are we not Christians? Are we not believers in the LORD and His Presence?

NO!  It doesn’t mean that at all. Simply put, God made us and crafted us with His brilliance, and we are fine pieces of “machinery” so to speak.  God knew what He was doing when giving us life.

From eyelashes that keep our eyes safe, a heart that beats and supplies blood to our bodies, with blood cells that are complex each one taking care of issues, like our immune system, liver to cleanse toxins, and vital organs carrying oxygen throughout our bodies, a woman having a womb carrying a baby until birth, etc., etc., etc.

So too did He supply us with emotions. Love, anger, and fear are emotions that come and go. They wade through us much like the tides at the shoreline. Sometimes the tide is high, sometimes it’s low. So too our emotions.

Fear has its place. It can stop us from catastrophic type behavior. Saving us from situations that would otherwise be life threatening.  It can hold us in place to a point where we fall to our knees and look to God for His help.  And on our knees is where we put our best emotions into play surrendering to Him in prayer.

So NO, you are not sinning if you experience fear!  We need to pray harder and look to God and His wisdom at this time in particular. Where we have to trust in Him fully and know that He will help us in good times and bad.

The promises of God are our reassurance and undoubtedly brings comfort to our heart and soul. In Jeremiah chapter one, God is speaking to Jeremiah and reminding him of how He is with him. No matter what.  He instructs Jeremiah, guides him, and continuously encourages him not to fear.

Guess what? His words and promises have never expired. In fact, He extends His grace and love to all of us this very day and very moment! So, all of those words of comfort and encouragement are for us as well.

Amazing!

Thank you, LORD!

 

“Father, thank You for Your provisions, protection, love and grace, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

Jeremiah 1:19

“And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee.”