Author Archives: C D SWANSON

DEAR GOD: Palm Sunday – You Come So Willingly~

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Palm Sunday Celebrates Jesus Pictures, Photos, and Images for Facebook ...Zechariah 9:9: “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the final week of Lent, and commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. This event is recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19), where Jesus rides into the city on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. The crowds greet Him with palm branches and shouts of “Hosanna,” recognizing Him as the promised Messiah.

For Christians, Palm Sunday is a day of paradoxical emotions. It is a celebration of Jesus’ kingship, yet it also foreshadows His impending suffering and death. It represents the hope of salvation and the promise of eternal life through Jesus’ sacrifice. The palms symbolize victory and triumph, while the donkey signifies peace and humility, contrasting the expectations of a conquering hero with the reality of a servant king.

Palm Sunday is a reminder that hope is not found in earthly power but in spiritual fulfillment. It encourages believers to reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice and to prepare their hearts for the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday. It is a call to faithfulness and a promise of redemption.

As Christ rode in on the donkey- He knew what was to come. Yet, He entered willingly knowing that this was the final week before He hung on that cross for us. He chose to do this for us to wash us clean with His blood.

This crucial day, “Palm Sunday” which marks the beginning of the “end” of His mission here on earth, to fulfill the scriptures – for us, is still profoundly felt throughout the thousands of years by those of faith, as we prepare to “worship” and acknowledge Him in remembrance and devotion. Let us honor Him, love Him, and spend time reflecting upon His actions and what it means to us overall.

  • How does Palm Sunday challenge our understanding of true leadership and victory?
  • In what ways can we embrace humility and service in our own lives, following the example of Christ?
  • How does the story of Palm Sunday inspire us to find hope in difficult times?

A Prayer for Palm Sunday:

“Dear Heavenly Father, on this Palm Sunday, we remember Your Son’s journey into Jerusalem. As the crowds laid down palm branches, we lay down our lives before You, seeking Your will and Your way. Teach us to follow in the footsteps of our humble King, to love as He loved and serve as He served. May the hope of His resurrection fill our hearts and renew our spirits. Guide us through this Holy Week with reflection and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made for our salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” 🌿

DEAR GOD: You Are My Shepherd – Forever~

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Image result for free pictures of psalm 23

Psalm 23, often called “The Lord is My Shepherd,” is one of the most cherished passages in the Bible, offering comfort and hope to believers throughout the ages. Its verses paint a serene picture of God’s guidance, provision, and protection, akin to a shepherd’s care for his sheep.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) This opening line establishes a profound trust in God’s provision. Christians see this as a declaration of God’s sufficiency in all aspects of life. Just as a shepherd meets the needs of his flock, so does God meet the needs of His people.

“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” (Psalm 23:2) Here, the psalmist describes a place of rest and refreshment, symbolizing the spiritual peace and rejuvenation that God provides. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites the weary to come to Him for rest, echoing the sentiment of this verse.

“He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3) God’s restoration is likened to a renewal of strength and spirit. The “paths of righteousness” reflect a life lived in accordance with God’s will, guided by His truth as revealed in the Bible.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) Christians find solace in this verse, especially in times of trouble or grief. It speaks of God’s presence and protection in life’s darkest moments. The “rod and staff” are symbols of a shepherd’s tools, representing discipline and support.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalm 23:5) This imagery suggests honor and abundance, even amidst adversity. The anointing oil signifies blessing and being chosen by God, as kings were anointed in the Old Testament.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6) The psalm concludes with a confident expectation of God’s continual blessings and the ultimate hope of eternal life with Him, as promised in John 14:2-3, where Jesus speaks of preparing a place for His followers.

For Christians, Psalm 23 encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith: trust in God’s care, the peace that comes from His presence, guidance in living a righteous life, comfort in times of fear, the assurance of God’s blessings, and the hope of eternal life.

“Dear Heavenly Father, You are our Shepherd, and in Your care, we lack nothing. Lead us to the green pastures of Your grace and the still waters of Your peace. Restore our souls and guide us in righteousness. Even as we walk through challenging times, let us feel Your presence and find comfort in Your protection.  Bless us, Lord, and let Your goodness and mercy accompany us every day of our lives, until we dwell in Your house forever. Amen. ”

The Lord’s my Shepherd – Stuart Townend [with lyrics] (youtube.com)

The Lord Is My Shepherd

A Psalm of David.

Psalm 23 –

 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
   He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
     He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
    for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

DEAR GOD: Your Wisdom Fills My Soul~

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God’s Wisdom and Understanding Bible Verses – Scriptures – Passages ...

Wisdom of the LORD

The book of Proverbs is a fountain of wisdom, offering guidance and insight for a life well-lived. Among its many pearls, Proverbs 1:7 shines brightly, illuminating the path to true knowledge. This verse serves as a cornerstone, not only for the book itself but for understanding the nature of wisdom and learning.

 Fear of the LORD – Reverence-Love

The phrase “the fear of the LORD” is a recurring theme in Biblical literature, encapsulating a profound respect and reverence for the Almighty. It is not a fear born of terror- but one of awe and wonder at the majesty and Holiness of God.

It is the starting point, the very beginning of knowledge, because it positions the heart to receive Divine Inspiring truths. To fear the LORD is to acknowledge His Sovereignty and to submit to His higher wisdom. And to love Him fully and unconditionally, while placing Him first in all we do!

The Beginning of Knowledge

Knowledge, as mentioned in Proverbs, is not merely the accumulation of facts or the mastery of skills. It is a comprehensive understanding of life’s principles as they relate to our Creator’s design. The “beginning” of this knowledge is akin to the foundation of a building; it is the essential and necessary base upon which all other learning is constructed. Without this rock-solid foundation, any structure of knowledge we build is unstable and prone to collapse. Such as illustrated by Jesus in the parable about the wise man builds his house upon a rock, the fool builds it on sand!

Matthew 7:24-27 –“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.  And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

Fools Despise Wisdom and Instruction

In stark contrast to those who fear the LORD, the verse speaks of “fools” who despise wisdom and instruction. The term “fool” in Proverbs does not refer to a lack of intelligence, but to a moral deficiency. It describes individuals who are obstinate and arrogant, rejecting the guidance and correction that wisdom offers. Their disdain for instruction leads them away from the path of knowledge and ultimately to their downfall.

The Value of Divine Wisdom

Divine wisdom, as revealed through the scriptures, is invaluable. It transcends the temporal and touches the eternal, offering insights that are not bound by time or culture. The wisdom that begins with the fear of the LORD is enduring, leading to a life marked by understanding, righteousness, and peace.

In conclusion-

Proverbs 1:7 encapsulates the essence of Biblical wisdom. It teaches us that the fear of the LORD is not only the beginning of knowledge, but also the foundation upon which a meaningful life is built.

 “Dear Father God, I come before You in reverence and humility, acknowledging Your infinite wisdom and majesty. I thank You for the gift of Your Word, which lights my path and guides all of my steps daily. Instill in me and your children a fear of the LORD, that is pure, leading to the knowledge and understanding that You desire for me/us. Help me/us to be seekers of Your wisdom, to cherish Your instruction, and to walk in the ways of righteousness. May my life reflect Your love and grace, and may I serve as a beacon of Your light in the darkness. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: CLeanse Our Sins-Wash Us Clean~

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Pin on Said very well!Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.
Isaiah 1:16-17 (NLT)

Isaiah 1:16-17 calls for a profound transformation, urging individuals to cleanse themselves not just outwardly but inwardly, to cease doing evil and learn to do good. These verses highlight a pivotal theme in the prophetic literature: the importance of genuine righteousness over mere ritualistic compliance.

The passage begins with a command to “wash yourselves, make yourselves clean” (Isaiah 1:16), which echoes the purification rituals of the time. However, the prophet Isaiah is not merely concerned with physical cleanliness. The call to “remove the evil of your deeds from my sight” suggests a deeper, moral cleansing that is required, one that involves turning away from wickedness and embracing ethical living.

The subsequent verse, “learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause” (Isaiah 1:17), expands on this idea. It is not enough to stop doing evil; one must actively pursue good, particularly by seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of society. This reflects a core principle of the Hebrew prophets: social justice is an essential aspect of religious life.

Isaiah’s message is timeless, reminding us that true spirituality is demonstrated through actions that reflect God’s character, especially His concern for justice and mercy. The prophet’s words challenge us to examine our lives, to move beyond superficial piety, and to embody the divine attributes of justice and righteousness in our daily interactions.

We are not to be “holy” only one day a week at Sunday gatherings, church – but to do so daily and with an obedience to the LORD in all we say and act upon. We are to be reflections of the LORD’s light, as we encounter people along the way in life. We are to establish our roots of Christianity in a profound and dedicated fashion, offering all we do to the LORD!  We are to strengthen our resolve in affirming our faith all the days of our lives, and then to embrace the rewards of Eternity.

” Father, I come before You, humbled and aware of all my shortcomings. Your Word, through the prophet Isaiah, has shone a light on the path of righteousness that You desire for your children to walk. Lord, help me/us to wash away not just the dirt from my/our hands, but the malice from my/our hearts. Teach me/us to cease doing evil and to learn to do good. Instill in me/us a spirit of justice, that I/we may seek it fervently, correct oppression boldly, and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. May I/we bring Your justice to the fatherless and plead the widow’s cause with the strength and compassion You have shown us. Grant me/us the courage to live out my/our faith through actions that honor You and may my/our lives reflect Your love and mercy to the world. We ask this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”

L

DEAR GOD: You Are My Beacon & Light~

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Lighthouse Sunset

 

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
    whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
    of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:2 (ESV)

 

A Beacon of Light

Psalm 27, attributed to David, is a profound expression of faith and trust in the Lord amidst adversity. It begins with a declaration of confidence: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)1. This opening verse sets the tone for the entire psalm, encapsulating the psalmist’s unwavering belief that God is a protective and guiding force against all fears and foes.

The psalm oscillates between expressions of fearless trust and earnest pleas for God’s presence. David speaks of enemies and war, yet he remains confident. This juxtaposition highlights a central theme: the power of faith to provide stability and courage, even when one is surrounded by threats.

Then further on, it reveals the psalmist’s deepest desire: “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life” (Psalm 27:4 NIV) David yearns not for material wealth or victory over his enemies, but for the serene and continuous communion with God. This longing to be in God’s presence, to “gaze on the beauty of the Lord,” is a testament to the psalmist’s devotion.

The latter part of the psalm is a heartfelt plea for God’s mercy and guidance. David asks not to be forsaken and prays for deliverance from his adversaries. The emotional intensity of these verses conveys a sense of vulnerability, contrasting with the earlier declarations of confidence. It is a reminder that seeking God’s face is not a one-time act but a continual process of faith and reliance on divine guidance.

Psalm 27 concludes with an exhortation to “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14 NIV) This final verse encapsulates the essence of the psalm: a call to patience and courage, affirming that trust in God is rewarded with strength and the fulfillment of His promises.

In essence, Psalm 27 is a microcosm of the spiritual journey. It captures the oscillation between confidence and doubt, presence and absence, and ultimately, the enduring faith that guides the believer through life’s tumultuous seas. It serves as a beacon of trust and devotion, illuminating the path for all who seek solace and strength in the divine.

When we place all of our trust and hope in the LORD, there isn’t anything we can’t accomplish or withstand, through Christ our LORD.  Superfluous things are non-existent – there reality is Christ, and the desire to commune with Him on a daily and intimate basis. When we ascribe to His doctrine, and His will for our lives, we get come ALIVE in His Presence and His Word.

As we take on more and more of the Word into our mind, heart, and apply it to our lives as it were, we begin to have a sense of what life “really is.” Life here on earth is fleeting. We are gone in a blink of the eye! We can die suddenly. And if so – are you confident that you will be in the Lamb’s Book Of Life?

One thing is certain – we all will physically leave this earth one day. Our flesh bodies will die, and our spiritual bodies will live on. However, when judgement day comes – the question is – will we be ready?

How’s your relationship with the LORD? Do you seek Him daily? Do you desire to be with Him exclusively for eternity? As David so passionately cries and laments in Psalm 27 – He wants to dwell in the house of the LORD forever – Do you?

“Dearest Heavenly Father, In the sanctuary of Your presence, I find light and salvation. Whom shall I fear? For You are the stronghold of my life. I come before You with a heart full of gratitude, Thanking You for the assurance that You are always nearby. In times of trouble, You protect me; You set me high upon a rock. Lord, I seek one thing—to dwell in Your house forever, to gaze upon Your beauty and to seek You in Your temple. In the quiet moments, in the chaos of life, Your presence is my constant desire. I surrender to You, O Lord, my worries and my foes. For even if friends and family forsake me, You will receive me. Teach me Your way, lead me on a straight path, despite my adversaries. I believe I will see Your goodness in the land of the living. So, I wait for You, Lord; I am strong and take heart as I wait. Thank You for being my light, my salvation, my refuge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: I Will Always Give You Thanks & GLory~

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Thank You God Messages and Quotes For Everything - WishesMsg

And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
Luke 17:11-19 (KJV)

In Luke 17:11-19, we encounter a profound narrative that underscores the importance of gratitude in our relationship with God. This passage recounts the story of ten lepers who receive healing from Jesus, yet only one returns to offer thanks. This singular act of thankfulness from the Samaritan leper, an outsider, provides a stark contrast to the ingratitude shown by the other nine.

The journey of the ten lepers begins with a plea for mercy, to which Jesus responds with a directive to show themselves to the priests. As they obey, they are cleansed. This miracle, however, is not the focal point of the passage. Instead, the spotlight shines on the aftermath—on the one leper who, upon realizing his healing, returns to Jesus with a heart overflowing with gratitude. His actions stand as a testament to the recognition of God’s grace in his life.

The ingratitude of the nine should serve as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the ease with which we can take God’s blessings for granted. In their haste to return to normalcy, they forget the source of their blessing. The Samaritan leper’s return to Jesus is a powerful illustration of the proper response to divine intervention: a return to the presence of God to give thanks.

The conclusion we draw from this passage is clear: thankfulness is not merely a polite response to kindness; it is an essential component of a faithful life. It is a recognition of our dependence on God and an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and goodness. The act of giving thanks draws us closer to God, fostering a deeper appreciation for His work in our lives.

Heavenly Father, I come before You with heart full of gratitude, just as the Samaritan leper returned to give thanks for his healing, I too offer praise for the countless blessings You bestow upon me, teach me to always recognize Your hand in my life and to respond with a spirit of thankfulness, may my gratitude be a constant reminder of Your unfailing love and grace, in Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Sunrise & Your New Day~

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Beautiful Beach Sunrise Wallpapers - Top Free Beautiful Beach Sunrise ...

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“Therefore I hope in Him!”
Lamentations 3:22-24 (NKJV)

” Yes -Another day to thank God for all His goodness and to hope in the day, live in His Word, and follow His will for my life in all I do and say.”

God’s mercies are endless. His love for us – profoundly deep-and beyond our mortal comprehension. (John 3:16)

These verses from Lamentations resonate with a profound sense of hope and faithfulness that is central to many spiritual journeys. They reflect the enduring mercies and compassion of the Lord, which are renewed each day, affirming an unwavering faithfulness that provides solace and strength to believers.

In a similar vein, Psalm 36:5-7 speaks to the vastness of God’s love and righteousness, likening them to the heavens and the mountains, and His justice to the great deep. It is a poetic expression of the boundless nature of divine qualities.

Furthermore, Lamentations 3:22-23- verses -is a testament to the steadfast love of the Lord. Despite the afflictions and sorrows that may come, the passage offers reassurance that the Lord’s mercies prevent total despair, and His compassions are inexhaustible. It supports and reflects the love of the LORD that is all consuming and a balm to our very soul. His love is a peaceful ember that burns with warmth and compassion and concern for each of us.

His Word and voice are “heard” in verses such as Lamentations, and others like them- which offer a message of hope and reassurance.

They suggest that no matter the challenges faced, the Lord’s mercies are a wellspring of renewal and hope. The faithfulness of the Lord is constant, providing a foundation for trust and expectation of good things to come. His Word and message encourage individuals to maintain hope and to trust in the constancy of divine compassion and faithfulness of our Heavenly and Mighty Father above. And when we accept Him and his Word and His will for our lives – we will be successful in all that we endeavor to undertake, all the days of our lives.

Are you ready to thank Him today? Are You listening to His voice, and seeking His face in all you do? Well, it’s a new day-what are you waiting for?

In closing Prayer –

“Heavenly Father, Your mercies are new every morning, and Your faithfulness is as vast as the skies. I come before You with a grateful heart, acknowledging Your compassion that never fails. Lord, guide me through each day with Your wisdom and grace. May I find strength in Your promises and comfort in Your steadfast love. Help me to always remember Your Word, and to always trust in Your goodness and to rest in the assurance of Your care. In moments of uncertainty, remind me that You are my portion and my hope. Fill me with Your peace and courage to face each day with confidence in Your unending mercy. I thank You for Your love that surrounds me, and may I commit to Your ways, and I surrender to You, and Your will -In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

 

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: You Are Worthy~

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Christ is Worthy – Pleading in Prayer

Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with Him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith –
Luke 12:7 (NLT)

The Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ

Philippians 3:8-9 is a profound declaration by the Apostle Paul about the value of knowing Christ. These verses encapsulate the essence of Paul’s faith and the transformation it wrought in his life.

Renouncing All for Christ

Paul speaks of renouncing all things for the sake of Christ. He considers them “loss” compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus as his Lord. For Paul, this knowledge is not merely intellectual; it is a relational, experiential knowledge that has the power to transform one’s entire being.

The Righteousness from God

In verse 9, Paul contrasts his former life of legalistic righteousness with the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. This righteousness is not self-derived; it is given by God on the basis of faith. It is a righteousness that aligns us with God’s own character and purposes.

The Intimate Knowledge of Christ

Paul’s desire to “gain Christ” and be found in Him is an intimate expression of union with the Savior. It is a picture of complete identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, leading to a life that is fully immersed in the presence and power of Jesus.

 Philippians 3:8-9 invites us to consider the value of our own pursuits in light of the incomparable worth of knowing Christ. It challenges us to find our identity, not in our achievements or religious credentials, but in the righteousness that comes from God through faith in Jesus.

In this world, when we walk around in recognition of Christ and all He is – we are able to fulfill His will and purpose in our life more readily, when we are reinforced by His Word and love.

Being able to walk in confidence and know that He is with us always, we are able to do all things through Him who strengthens us. We are able to attain things easily and are able to proceed in all we endeavor during our day.

Christ is the One who is worthy and the One we should put first at all times, today, tomorrow and always. When we do that – we live a LIFE worth LIVING – because He is LIFE itself! Amen!

Let us pray:

“Dear Lord, thank You for the gift of knowing Christ, which surpasses all earthly gains. Help me to count all things as loss in comparison to the treasure of Your presence. May I be found in Christ, clothed in Your righteousness, and living by faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: May My Fasting Bring Me CLoser To You~

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2019 prayer_and_fasting-PSD – Heartcry Chapel

Fasting and prayer are spiritual disciplines that have been practiced for centuries across various religious traditions. In the Christian faith, these practices are often observed together as a means to deepen one’s relationship with God, seek guidance, and express penitence.

Fasting, the voluntary abstinence from food or drink, is a physical expression of one’s spiritual desire for communion with God. It is an act of humility, acknowledging one’s dependence on God for sustenance. By setting aside the temporary comfort of food, believers can focus more intently on their spiritual nourishment through prayer and meditation on the Scriptures.

Prayer is the communication with God, where one can praise, confess, give thanks, and petition. It is a time to align one’s will with God’s, to seek forgiveness, and to intercede for others. Prayer can be a source of strength and comfort, especially during times of fasting when physical weakness reminds us of our spiritual need.

The combination of fasting and prayer can lead to a heightened sense of spiritual awareness. It can help believers to detach from worldly distractions and draw closer to God, seeking His will and guidance. The Bible offers several examples of individuals and communities who fasted and prayed, often during critical moments or decisions, showing their reliance on God’s direction and strength.

Biblical Support:

  • Matthew 6:16-18 – Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing that it should not be done for show, but rather in a way that is not obvious to others.
  • Acts 13:2-3 – The early church fasted and prayed before sending off Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey.
  • James 5:13-16 – Believers are encouraged to pray in all circumstances, and the prayer of faith will heal the sick.

Fasting can also be giving up one’s indulgences for a while and concentrating on the LORD, fully and completely. It is the ability to focus in on the LORD with all of your given body, mind and soul…and presenting yourself wholly and humbly to the LORD. It is a representation of your faith and your love for the LORD, and consequently will be a vow of belief in Him and all He is.

When we turn in prayer to the One above and bring our meditations and heart to Him, He will surely hear from heaven, and will answer according to His time table, not ours!

“My Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, seeking Your presence through fasting and prayer. May my spirit be nourished by Your Word and my heart aligned with Your will. Grant me the strength to pursue You wholeheartedly, and may my discipline be a testament to my utmost desire for closeness with You. Bless me with wisdom and clarity, and let my actions reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ precious name I pray, Amen. 🙏”