Category Archives: Devotional

DEAR GOD: Walking In Your Will & Word~

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Pathlight Studies: Walking With God

Living with God daily means to abide in His presence, to listen to His voice, and to obey His commands. It means to seek His will and His glory in everything we do, and to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. It also means to love others as He loves us, and to serve them with the gifts and talents He has given us. Living with God daily is the most fulfilling and joyful way to live, because He is the source of life, love, and purpose.

Have you sought Him today? Do you walk according to His purpose for Your life? Are you doing things according to His will? Do you seek Him in all that you do? Do you have a relationship with Him? If not, what’s stopping you?

“Dear LORD, thank You for this moment in time, may I do all according to Your will and purpose, and no one else’s, may I aspire to all You want me to be, may I be in alignment with Your commandments, and Word, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Can We Tell Others To Be Still & Let You~

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“…Be still and know that I am God.”
Psalm 46:10

Can we ultimately stop and just stand still and think “God, I know You have me and all good intentions towards me, so I’ll stop and let YOU be YOU!”

It can be life affirming to some to recognize the need to “let God take over and be God” in your life. For those who are “control freaks” let go – and let God be God. He is the ultimate Warrior and Savior and He conquered death, performed recorded miracles and countless others I’m sure that weren’t recorded, and He loves us with the intensity of ten thousand suns and more! So, why do some have problems letting go and letting God be God?

Well, the aforementioned one “control” is one of the reasons. A lot of Christians in a “tepid” relationship with Jesus may not have fully come to the understanding that we are “to go to Him in all things” both big and small, good and bad.  That is kind of a reason that sits atop a lot of people’s way of thinking. As a matter of fact, I ran a support group and that was the number one reason for the group. “I have to be in control – if I surrender that seems I’m a failure.”  NOT TRUE!

When we as believers go forward with the mind-set of “not allowing God to be God and acquiescing to His will, and His ways, and His commandments – that’s when we “fail.” We don’t fail when we give in to God, we fail miserably when we don’t.

I am trying to help some individuals who are just becoming Christian. They were acquainted with who Jesus is – but never really in the Word or understanding why or how to behave as a Christian.

Then God showed me verses and gave me the wisdom to show them what they can do, and where they could start. We spoke at length and there were many questions pouring forward, all rushing out at once. And it was quite a drenching in the Spirit, because they all gave themselves to Jesus and were born of the Spirit. It was fabulous!

If one tries to help those who are deeper in the Word, yet also don’t feel they “should bother God” with little things, so they do it on their own. This to me is probably worse than not knowing at all. Remember what was said in Revelation? Jesus used water supply as a spiritual metaphor. “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:15-16).

So, for those who should know better – it retracts and meanders into another whole perspective. We should be aware that God is God, and in as much – know that He is capable of doing anything and has proven it over and over in the Bible – as well as in your life today. I’m sure you can think back to issues or circumstances where God took over – and brought you safely to a place of peace, or healing.

Jesus warned them that He would spit them out of His mouth, meaning that He would reject them and cast them away from His presence. This was a severe judgment that indicated their spiritual condition was wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked (Revelation 3:17).

Let God be God – be still…and enjoy the inherent joy of being a child of the King of kings, LORD of lords. And then watch how living as a Christian and going to God for all things will bring you a life WORTH LIVING! Amen!

“Father-thank You for being You and taking care of all things on my behalf, You are in control and I surrender to You fully and completely, You are my LORD and Savior, and I am Yours, may I remember to ‘be still and know that You are God’ all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: I Am Loved & Worthwhile Because Of You~

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Isaiah 49:15-16

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.”

Many of us at one time or another, for whatever is happening in your life, may feel like “no one cares about you.” Naturally this is a human emotion, and being human we are subject to deep emotions, that run the gamut of – hot and cold, happy and sad, loving and disliking, etc., so on and so forth.

We as humans are therefore subject to the desolation of loneliness, physical pain, emotional aching pain, and the subversive nature of trials and tribulations. This in turn will give way to perhaps wondering or asking – “does anyone really care about me and what is happening in my life? –  What am I feeling this, and why am I going through at this difficult time right now?”

This is when as Christians we have to grab ourselves “inwardly” and awaken the spirit within. This is when we need to refuel and gain access to the ageless and timeless Word that will reinforce and rejuvenate us and catapult us from our “pity party.”

The Bible – is after all -God’s love letter to His children. It is a constant source of wisdom, insight in life, and His love for us.

2 Chronicles 16:9

“For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”

God is with us at all times. Even when navigating the rough seas, He is our Captain and maintains the high waters and will ultimately bring us into safe harbor. He is our light in the darkness, and He is the One whose love is unwavering, and a continuous flow that soothes our very souls.

Our LORD is always at the helm and looks for those opportunities in our lives to strengthen and fully support us through both good times and bad.

God is our “LIGHT HOUSE” in each individual storm. When we are aligned in His Word, and our hearts are true to Him, He will always provide, supply, maintain and procure all that we need, today and forever.

Psalm 23:3

“He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”

He guides our steps and brings us to the right narrow path which leads to His heart and His mercy endures forever. Our journey with God is to bring honor and glory to His name, and we will of course reap the eternal rewards He promises each of His followers.

Psalm 143:8

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”

Putting our complete trust in the LORD will garner huge rewards not only in our life here on earth, but in our permanent home-eternity- in the hereafter.

Trusting in God then elevates our positions in terms of the spirit as we  should “live” by our spirit rather than our flesh. The spirit will always lead us to the green pastures and still waters (Psalm 23).

Don’t forget that GOD LOVES YOU! And that no matter what you may be feeling or going through, He is with you. His loving Spirit guides and pulls us along and will bring us to “peace” and and His love will never let us down.

When you feel those thoughts in your mind – that’s the enemy whispering and telling you lies. Satan in the father of lies and chaos. He wants you to feel worthless, unloved and incomplete.

But we know better. For there is One who died for us, One who loves us more than we could ever possibly equate or understand in this flesh body – Jesus Christ our HERO and the One that will always pick us up, and wipe away our tears, and strengthen our resolve and love us for the rest of our lives and beyond. Amen!

“LORD, thank You for always being with me, for never forsaking me, always loving me, and always guiding me, may my spirit be aligned with Your Spirit, today and all the days of my life and beyond, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Word Touches Hearts~

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In Praise of Main Points | Jordan Mark Stone

Have you ever found when you quote a passage or verse from God’s Holy Word, that more often than not it seems to “startle” an individual one way or another?  That is to say in my personal experience and encounters, when I offer up a quote that is germane to the conversation in which we are having, the person will immediately react!  How do they react? It depends on the circumstances of course, but they all share one thing in common, they all “pause” and reflect before responding.

For example, last week an individual was hurting and sobbing openly about someone they love who is probably at the end of their time on earth. I offered up this very important verse of truth and wisdom from the LORD from Luke 23:43–And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

The person stopped sobbing and said, “do you really think so?” I replied, “Jesus’ words- so Yes! He is pure and speaks the truth and promises this. So of course I KNOW so. I know they will be in paradise soon…“

Words have a way to hurt or help, to comfort or discomfort, to soothe the soul or ruffle feathers. Words are powerful, the tongue can be either a weapon or a friend. The tongue is a very important part of the body. James uses three illustrations to express what the tongue is like and why it must be controlled in James 3:3-5. He illustrates each one brilliantly and offers explanations of such.

  • (3:3) BITS –“If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well.” 
  • (3:4) SHIPS – “Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs.”
  • (3:5) FIRES- So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!

Fine example of how powerful the tongue it. We can speak life into a situation or circumstance or speak death! Remember in Ezekiel who the LORD told to speak life into the “old bones” to bring to life? Ezekiel 37:1-14 is about a vision given to the prophet Ezekiel, in which he was taken to a valley full of dry bones. The Lord asked him whether these bones could come to life, and Ezekiel responded that only the Lord knew. God then commanded Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, and as he did, they began to come together and be covered with flesh.

So too can our words affect to this very day. The Word is a powerful tool for our soul, heart, body and mind! God’s Word is life enhancing, life fulfilling, life everlasting!

When we pull up the Word that should be there always hidden in our hearts, we can apply it to all kinds of life altering moments.

–Psalms 119:11 (KJV): Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Being Christian is one thing. It’s how you apply that Christianity in life is quite another altogether.

Do you use your words wisely?
Or do you use them in a useless way?
Do you offer up death to the dry bones?
Or do you speak life into the dry bones, bringing them to life?

That little part of your body, your tongue is a powerful tool. Please use it wisely. And when you have nothing to say, keep it still, be still and let God guide you- (Psalm 46:10). 

Remember you have the ability to make a difference to someone today, tomorrow and the next day- and all the days of your life!

“Father, may I serve you wisely this day, and may I use Your Word as a tool to help my brothers and sisters, and those I encounter throughout my day, today, tomorrow and always, in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Protecting Me~

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“I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?” –Psalm 118:5-6 

The passage is from Psalm 118, which is a song of thanksgiving and praise to God for his steadfast love and salvation. The psalmist recounts how God delivered him from his enemies and troubles, and how he trusts in God’s protection and power.

The passage begins with the psalmist calling upon the LORD in distress. This implies that he was in a situation of danger, suffering, or hardship, and that he had no other source of help or hope. He turned to God in prayer, seeking his intervention and mercy.

The passage then says that the LORD answered him and set him in a large place. This means that God responded to his prayer and rescued him from his distress. He gave him a spacious and secure place to dwell, free from the threats and pressures of his enemies. He also gave him room to grow and flourish in his relationship with God and others.

The passage continues with the psalmist declaring that the LORD is on his side, and that he will not fear. This shows that he has a strong confidence and trust in God’s presence and favor. He knows that God is his ally and defender, and that nothing can harm him as long as God is with him.

The passage ends with the psalmist asking rhetorically, what can man do unto me? This implies that he has no fear of human opposition or hostility, because he knows that God is greater and more powerful than any human force. He also knows that God has a good plan and purpose for his life, and that no one can thwart or hinder God’s will.

The passage, therefore, expresses a faithful and joyful attitude towards God, who is the source of deliverance, security, and peace. It also invites the reader to share in the same trust and praise of God, who is faithful and loving to those who call upon him.

When we are followers and faithful to the LORD, we can always count on His protection, provisions, and nearness. He is a steady and constant source of energy. We are infused with His Spirit, and thereby led, and guided on paths of righteousness.

When we study and meditate on His Word and understand His ways, we can then endeavor to be good followers and Christians in all we are and do.

Have you read His Word recently?

“Father, my LORD and Shepherd thank You for Your Presence and Your love, may I be an obedient servant today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Always Running To Your Arms~

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I am a “Daddy’s girl” always have been, always will be. As a little girl, I always ran straight into my “daddy’s arms.” He’s been gone for many years, due to an untimely medical mistake that cost him his life, but I still miss him, and will always love him. And I was blessed to have him in my life, so thank You LORD!

That being said, I am a “Daddy’s girl” for my Daddy in heaven, my LORD!  I run straight to him no matter what, and even in good times I race right to his arms.

When things are happening or I’m experiencing turmoil in circumstances surrounding me – either be it family or friends-I only think to “run straight to Him!”

For He is the key for that ignites deeply within my soul to keep me going through it all.

I run on His love, His Wisdom, and His Word.

Without that I’d be “stalled on the highway of life” and I couldn’t function.

Much like a car being “dead” without the key to the ignition!

My LORD is the KEY! 

  • Jesus is the key to all things in life because he is the source of life itself. He said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
  • Jesus is the key to all things in life because he is the ultimate example of how to live. He said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10) He also said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34)

  • Jesus is the key to all things in life because he is the giver of grace and hope. He said, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
    He also said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25)

Jesus, being the key in life means that He is the only way to have a relationship with God and to receive eternal life.  He also said, “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.” (John 10:9)

Jesus is the key to life because He died on the cross for our sins and rose again from the dead. He paid the price for our forgiveness and opened the way for us to enter God’s presence.

Jesus is the key to life because He loves us unconditionally and invites us to follow Him. He is our Lord, our Savior, our Friend, and our King. He is the one who gives us purpose, joy, peace, and hope.

He is the one who transforms us into His image and prepares us for His glory. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:24-25)

If you want to know more about Jesus being the key to life, you can read the Bible, which is God’s word and reveals His plan and love for us. You can also talk to other Christians, who can share their testimonies and experiences of following Jesus.

You can also pray to God and ask Him to show you His truth and grace. Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)

Do you run to Him for all things? Do you feel comfort by His Spirit? Do you love Him fully and with all of your heart and soul? And finally, and most important of all – have you accepted Him as LORD and Savior in your life? He’s waiting, so then–what are you waiting for?

“Dear Father, I know that I will always find comfort in Your arms and in all You are, I will always run to You first in all of my circumstances, and believe that You are the Messiah, and my LORD and Savior, and I will never ever stray from You or Your Word, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: You Are My Father of Light & Love~

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Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning –
James 1:17

He never changes, there is no shadow or room for obscurity. Our Father in Heaven is openly “visible” in all areas of our lives, if we take the time to look and seek.  He is not a vapor or a mere illusion, He is real and perfect in every way.  He is the Father of Light.

James 1:18 -Of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.

We are His and follow Him and he gives us the knowledge of wisdom and repentance and being a first fruit showing others the way.  The Word and His truth enlightens us, and the Holy Spirit provides the guidance and instruction in the way we ought to live and be an example to others along the way.

James – 1:19 – Therefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;

If you can follow those three words of advice from James 1:19 – we will be able to provide for others while following the doctrine and tenets of how we can be productive according to the LORD’s will and purpose for our lives. Don’t be double minded, be patient, and understanding. In all we do, do for the LORD.

James 1:20 – For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

There is no connection whatsoever. If you are angry and angry at the world or yourself, or angry all the time…then that is not serving God. We cannot have that type of temperament or attitude and expect God to bless us, nor will we be able to live a fulfilling life here on earth. Or have the LORD be pleased with us. But most especially, cannot do that if we want to walk the path of righteousness and follow God.

Accept the Father of Light and His Gifts He lays upon us from above and adhere to all He wants us to be. When we do this, we can be blessed and live the life worth living.

Walk in the Light and shine, shine, shine…

“Father, thank You for Your love, gifts and will for my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Wisdom Comes From You Alone~

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Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.
-Proverbs 18:4 (NLT)

 

Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgement. – Proverbs 9:16 (NLT)— Many interpretations of this particular verse have been at the center of discussion at a lot of gatherings. I find that its meaning suggests having utmost respect and reverence for the LORD and it’s the first primary step towards gaining wisdom and understanding of “all things” pertaining to our lifetime.

As I’ve said this verse has been analyzed and preached in various ways. I keep it simple; it means wisdom comes from a deep understanding of God’s teachings and principles. I also believe emphatically that it also reflects our own limitations, that we need to seek His guidance, no matter how little the circumstances are.

I believe it emphasizes the importance of humility, respect and a willingness/eagerness to learn as the key components of gaining and receiving wisdom.

Under the guidance of the LORD and being under His Wings of surveillance and protection, we are able to be all we are purposed to be, according to the Word and His will for our lives.

So how do we gain knowledge then? By reading the Word. It has been called by some a “Life Manual” and a “Life Preserver” for all the days of our lives.

Do you have wisdom? Do you have the “Life Manual” in hand? If not—why not?

“Father, thank You for Your Word, and the Wisdom You impart on all of Your Children who seek You, and adhere to Your Word, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: I AM INFUSED BY YOUR SPIRIT~

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The Bible offers many lessons on how to make a difference in life. We are called to resist conformity to worldly patterns and renew our minds according to God’s Word. By seeking His guidance and transforming our way of thinking, we can then completely discern God’s good, acceptable, and perfect will for each of us.

Standing with and by God’s Word and will for our lives enables us to make choices and take actions that align with His purpose, and inherently will make a positive impact on others, as well as our lives. But only when it is according to HIS will, not ours.

You see when we rely on God and trust Him fully in all we do and acknowledge Him— He will direct our paths. And when we realize we need Him and aren’t using our “own wisdom” or devices, and love Him fully and keep from evil, it will be health for us inside and out (Proverbs 3:5-8).

The Bible teaches us that to make a difference, we should read the Bible, connect with God, serve others selflessly, and renew our minds according to God’s Word. Each session we spend with God on an intimate basis, that is getting to know Him, understand His word and how to apply it to our lives, we gain introspection into how we should live. We gain access into living life successfully while adhering to His commandments.

The Bible is a perfect testimony of who God is and what He’s like. After all, it’s inspired by God and it’s profitable for teaching, admonishing, rebuking, training us to be disciplined and walk in righteousness.

Plus, through His Word, God shows us and gives us everything in His book required of us to lead a life of goodness and demonstrate love towards each other.

Each of us are unique, yet all have the impact to make a difference in the world. The Holy Spirit will guide us and teach us as we go along in this world. The Spirit isn’t stagnant.  Instead, the Spirit will continuously move and flow effortlessly when we are aware, open and engaged with the Word on a daily basis. He is given to us as a “gift” when we accept the LORD readily. We are given that wonderful and glorious gift from the Father, and He is infused within us always.

 Luke 24:49 (NLT) – “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.”

“Father, may I always be connected to You on every level in my life, may I consult with You before I go about my tasks in early morning, may I seek Your face in all I do, and may I please You in all of my ways, all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Never Let Me Down~

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No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you-
Joshua 1:5 (NKJV)

God and His glorious Light is always shining down upon us.  His warmth and capacity to love us is beyond our understanding.   And He helps us with anything we may need. He especially helps us through adversity.

Adversity is a benign enough word, but the true course of its meaning can be staggering to many. Most individuals will face trials and adversity at some point in their lives During adversity an individual’s true light and character will be exposed.  It is at that time when the rubber meets the road and true signs of the inner spirit will either emerge…or submerge.  People can disappoint, but God never will.

Recently an issue came to the surface that allowed a snapshot of a person whom I trusted, and respected, to appear… and the snapshot was a gross distortion of what I firmly believed all along.  It was truly an enlightening experience, and a sad one at that.  Without going into details, suffice it to say…it was a great upheaval and a large disappointment.  But I’ve prayed for this individual’s peace of mind, and for strength in the adversity that this person is facing at this time.  I know I have to step back from this person, and it is with a heavy heart I do so, but there is no other recourse.  Because even Jesus said, and whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them” Luke 9:5 (NKJV).

Although this individual disappointed me and let me down—and others may have done the same to all of you reading this post now.  Be of good cheer, know that GOD WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN, and GOD WILL NEVER DISAPPOINT.  For He is the same as He was from the beginning, and still sitting on the throne and in control.  That in itself is reward for our souls and our very foundation of life.

We live in the great day when God is pouring out His Spirit on all believers in Christ, filling them and empowering them to serve Him in holiness and great joy. Have you asked the Lord to fill you today?  Do so, and believe…because when adversity comes calling, you’ll be filled with His Light and peace to help you through.

“Father, thank You for Your unwavering love, promises, and truth, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”