Category Archives: Faith filled website

DEAR GOD: Is My Heart Showing Outwardly & Inwardly?

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Praying in Secret – christianityworks

I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. 

Psalm 101:2 

 

Psalm 101:2 brings to mind the Sadducees and the Pharisees who wore the long robes, openly prayed and attended Synagogue. They did what was right in “clear sight” of all who would see. Standing on street corners, praying loudly for all to see. And yet these same individuals who called themselves “holy men” of God were considered “hypocrites” by Jesus’ own words.

They didn’t have clean thoughts in their hearts towards Jesus, they were harboring evil thoughts, and plotting to be rid of Jesus.  But to look at the so called “holy men” with their tallits and kipahs in full view, you’d never suspect they plotted and schemed in the privacy of their own homes. They waited while observing Jesus. They were trying to trick Him at every turn. But our beloved Savior knew their games and knew their hearts.

So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him -Mark 3:2

He saw everything they did “in secret” as did His Father…our amazing Sovereign God.  God sees all. He’s a cardio knower. He reads our hearts, knows our minds. Accepts and loves us with all of His heart. He hates “sin” but, He doesn’t hate the person. So, nothing can be in secret. He sees it.

Jesus is grieved by an unrepentant heart.  He can get angry (as in His Father’s house when they were selling mite infested doves, and bargaining. He called them out in a powerful way. Overturning their tables, and with a knotted whip) and he can become grieved. So too His/our Father.

And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts -Mark 3:5

So, when we’re in our homes safely tucked away from the world, do we still behave in a “godly manner?” It’s one thing to behave in a godly way in public, when so many eyes are watching. It’s quite another thing entirely to reflect His goodness and righteous behavior when we are alone with our thoughts, and equally important to have a contrite heart. God definitely calls us to both.

Our Father loves us and calls us to certain standards and practices in His name. He wants every part of us–body and soul, and spirit–to grow close to Him. He wants those that will gladly and freely give everything to Him. Surrendering to Him at His will and joined and grafted in His love.

Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! -Psalm 103:1

He wants us to love Him. He wants our love. He knows our weaknesses, and of our ignorance in certain areas. He doesn’t require anything more than which we can handle.   When you seek His face and His strength, things will come back to you. He will bless you accordingly, in abundance. We cannot outgive God. God’s word is pregnant…it grows and grows. The more we seek, the more we see and know.

Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face evermore!  -Psalm 105:4

When we do our good deeds, we don’t need to announce them to the world, or blow a trumpet saying, “look at me” – God sees and will reward us openly. He keeps a careful tally of our actions, both public and private. Our actions should be with a contrite and loving heart, and with a complete obedience to the Father. And this is something that should be done both in and out of our homes.

And your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly- Matthew 6:4

Trust in God and know that His will and His intent toward us are always in our best interest. He set up this world so that a real element of faith is always required in order to connect with Him. Never doubt His love or His ability to sustain us in all things.

When they saw Him, they worshipped Him; but some doubted -Matthew 28:17

When we live a life of purpose according to His will, we will be better for it.  When we consult Him in prayer for decisions, or for an upcoming event, the outcome will be blessed. When we observe His laws, and His doctrine both inside and outside our homes, we will thrive.

Our job is to work inside and outside our homes in accordance with His gospel. To be a faithful messenger to others, in His glorious name.    Is the LORD pleased with your acts in and out of your home?

 

“LORD, may I do all according to Your will and purpose, and may I do all things that align with Your Word, and may all I do openly be in perfect harmony with all I do while at home alone, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are the Keeper of My Soul~

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I observed my niece playing with her toys on the floor in her living room. She methodically placed her building blocks one on top of the other. She seemed to really enjoy the red ones the most. As the pile got higher and higher, she became more excited. Until the last block she placed atop of the huge pile.  I knew it was sure to happen and within seconds she was crying. “All come down!” She cried as her mom assured her; she could build it again. That seemed to stifle the tears somewhat. And within seconds a chocolate chip cookie and milk seemed to erase the entire scenario from her little innocent mind.

That got me to thinking about our souls. The blocks were like the weight of the world, all its troubles piling atop one another. Issues, troubles, finances, division, political discourse, so on and so forth. Until one final piece crumbles it to the ground. That could be our soul!

Jesus very succinctly gives us a warning in Mark 8:36. He is telling us what good to gain the world if we lose our soul in the process? How important is the things of this world that would push our souls to the brink of eradication?

Listen, of course we need to be aware of current events. Jesus warned His disciples as he sent them out into the world in Matthew 10:16, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. 

The Lord Jesus used the dove as a model for harmlessness and innocence, and the serpent for wisdom and cunning. So, we are to utilize the two in a way that is fitting of a Christian and follower of Christ. We are to be cautious as we venture into the world and be forewarned at all times, remembering the words of Christ.

How can we do this?

  1. Take note of the world events, but don’t get pulled into them in an ungodly fashion. ((Colossians 2:8)
  2. Be aware that evil does exist in the world but remember that Christ gives us authority in His name to overcome it. ((Mark 16:18)
  3. Be an example of His light to those you encounter, smile, help, and be attentive to other’s needs. (Matthew 5:16)
  4. Stay in the Word, and always have your Gospel Armor in place (Ephesians 6)
  5. Don’t fear those who can kill your flesh, but rather those who can “kill your soul.” (Matthew 10:28)

 

Number five on the above list is crucial to your spiritual growth and roots in Christ. The only One we answer to is our LORD. The only One we bow down to is to the Highest Authority in the Universe, our LORD and Savior, King of kings.

Sure, we are subject to “civil law” and “rules” in which societal norms are vitally important to exist. But make no mistake, we are under the control of the Highest Royal God, who is at the helm 24/7!

It is Him and only He that has our soul in His hands.

We have a duty as citizens to obey the rules of the land, but we have a full-blown allegiance to acquiesce to all of what God commands.

So, remembering my nieces “tower” that fell from all that weight. There is only so much world you can take in before it tries to snatch up your soul. But as faithful followers, nothing could ever take us from the love of Christ. Nothing!

Romans 8:39 -Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

“Father my LORD, thank You for Your brilliant light, love and guidance, may I always be aware that we are dealing with daily spiritual warfare in the world, may my spirit always be in step with Your word in all I do and encounter, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: How Do We Stay Focused on You?~

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Stay Focused on Jesus - St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Cobourg

Hebrews 12:2 –

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith

How can we stay focused on God? There are many reasons to want to do so and all are beneficial to us, spiritually, physically mentally.

When we engage daily in prayer, meditation and reading verses in the Bible, we are activating a closer bond with the LORD in many ways. First of all, we are showing Him reverence by being in His Word, and when we obey His commandments, we are doing according to His Word.

Staying focused on God and His Word is relevant to all we endeavor to do or hope to do. Being in the Word brings wisdom and insight and it equips us with the ability to ascertain things we normally would not be able to do without His guidance.

So, how do we stay focused on Him?

  1. By being in the Word.
  2. By being faithful to His commandments.
  3. By spending time with Him alone in prayer.
  4. By showing His love to others.
  5. By being an example of His light and truth.
  6. By doing all things that are right and aligning with His Word.
  7. Seeking His face in all we do and attempt to do.
  8. Loving Him totally with all our hearts, minds, body, and soul.
  9. Putting Him first before anything or anyone else.
  10. And by asking for His will to be done in your life. 

As we focus on His love, His Word, His will we are inherently drawing closer to Him. When we ask for His will to be done in our life, we are placing our trust in Him, knowing He wants what is best for all of us.

Spending time with the LORD is probably the most valuable and important thing you can possibly do in this lifetime. Loving Him is probably the most pleasant thing you can do in this lifetime. And obeying Him is the most rewarding thing you can do in this lifetime, and the life to come in Eternity.

Colossians 3:2 

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

 

“Father, may I stay focused on You and Your commandments, love and Word today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Can We Be More Like Your Son, Jesus?

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Pin on Jesus... Lord, Savior, Everything

“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 (KJV)

 

Being more like Jesus sounds like an enormous Herculean task!  After all, He was the perfect unblemished Lamb and was horrifically tortured and crucified for us! Jesus? No one can accomplish that which He did in terms of what He accomplished. No way! He is the One and only true Son of God!

However, we can show love! We have the ability to do that, as Jesus commanded us to do. He didn’t ask us to do it. He commanded us to do it!

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. (John 13:34)

Being like Jesus, means putting others before self.  All the while seeking God’s Wisdom to care about all those you come into contact with during your journey on Earth.

It’s also crucial to become fully acquainted with who Jesus really is. We need to know the Agape love of God in order to demonstrate it.

We have to be as humble as Jesus and treat others with respect. Jesus washed the feet of His disciples; it doesn’t get humbler than that! Jesus said this is an example I’ve given to you, do likewise. (John 13:15)

Do not be boastful or exalt yourself.

Also, to treat those as you would expect to be treated. (Matthew 7:12)

Be considerate of others, and be patient and kind. For Love is just that, patient and kind. (1 Corinthians 13:4)

Be mindful of the sound and tone of your voice, your way of speaking, and type of language. Don’t curse, blaspheme, etc. Speak kindly of others. Put yourself in place of others to fully understand their circumstances, and overall perspective.

As you draw closer to God in His ways, He will draw closer to you. (James 4:8)

Show your love, that’s the closest we will ever get to being like Jesus!

Amen!

 

“Father, thank You for Your love and Your Son, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Do I Protect Myself Against Evil People?

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The Holy Spirit Leads Us Through the Valley of Circumstances - Hallelujah

We can’t protect “ourselves” it is God that does it for us. He reassures us that He goes before us on all levels and mentions it throughout the Bible. We can be careful while following His Word and the practicality of life in general. But it is God that goes before us. It is He that gives us the strength and the ability to sustain and maintain our morality and vitality in all things.

He is with us. No matter what. He goes before us at all times. We are to have no fear. That includes those who hate and despise us or are jealous of us.

Jeremiah 1:8 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

He commands us in many places not to fear, and to trust Him above all else. When we put our trust in God, he guides us, shows us, supplies us with wisdom. All these things fall under the auspices of His Sovereign supernatural power. He guides our paths. He brings us health.

Proverbs 3:5-8 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. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

There is no fear in humans or what they can do to us. They can’t kill our souls. Only God can. He created our souls only He can destroy our souls. He alone can do ALL things.

 

“Father God, thank You for protecting me in all matters of my life, day in and day out, You are my source of strength, I receive You and Your promises today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How May I Please You?~

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Colossians 1:10 

“…so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;”

 

Pleasing our Father should be the goal of all believers, and all who call upon the name of Christ for salvation.

For all those who want to please God walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. Meaning, walk with the spiritual frame of mind and not by the body mind.

Walking in the Spirit and not in the flesh summed up means, “walking worthy of our calling and surrendering to God’s will. And being obedient in His commandments.

It may seem utterly unattainable and truly impossible to do. But God wants us to please Him, and He will supply the strength to do so, when we are contrite in heart and sincere in our desire to do so.

After all it’s His Spirit who lives in our hearts, and that is how we can manage to live by the Spirit.  In Romans 8:8

Paul reminds us that, “whoever walks in the flesh cannot possibly please God.” That alone is reason enough to want to walk worthy and put on the Spirit of God. We do this by our faith, because without it, we are not going to please God.

We must truly believe in Christ, as our Savior. We must believe He exists. He also will reward those who earnestly seek Him. ((Hebrews 11:6).

Those who are still in their sin have their minds sent on sinful desires. Whereas those who have been transformed and regenerated by Christ, are new creatures in Him. The old self is gone, and in its place a new one.2 Corinthians 5:17

Meaning we have a completely new mind that is fully controlled by the Spirit. And when we have that mind-set, we have a desire to live in accordance with Him in all we do and speak.

The mind of a sinful person is death. Ostensibly, the mind controlled by the Spirit is Life and peace. But the sinful mind is hostile and unmoving and set in their ways, not wanting to please God. The flesh does not want to acquiesce to God’s law or submit to it. Nor can it do so, without Christ’ Spirit and strength.(Romans 8:6-7).

Finally, pleasing God truly comes down to this: “Living according to His commandments, living according to His precepts, and doing it with reverence and complete submission and unconditional love.

We always want to please those we love right?

The Bible is full of exhortations to righteous living and loving Christ. Jesus says it quite clearly, “If you love me, you will obey what I command.” (John 14:15). 

The Epistles are God’s plan for believers. This book shows and tells what to display throughout our lives, concerning our behavior that is most pleasing and satisfying to God:

“For the rest, then, my brothers, we beseech you and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that, as you have received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, so you would abound more and more” (1Thessalonians 4:1).

 

“Father, may I always be pleasing in Your eyes, may I walk in the Spirit and follow your precepts, commandments, and laws, and may I glorify You all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Walking In The Spirit - Part 1 - CrossBridge Community Church

 

DEAR GOD: Apple of Your Eye~

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You Are The Apple Of God’s Eyes – Becoming the Oil and the Wine

For thus saith the LORD of hosts;

After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you:

for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.

 Zechariah 2:8 KJV

 

Ask someone what he/she thinks is precious. Some might say, an heirloom handed down for generations.  Or others may say their brand-new house.  The majority of individuals probably will answer, “My children.”  All except the latter is of little significance. It’s entirely materialistic gain…nothing more.

As children of God…we’re precious in His sight. We’re special, and He loves us as evidenced by His promises in His Word. To this day, God continues to love and guide us, as He has throughout the ages.

His presence is felt by those of faith. His voice can be heard above a crowd, and His Spirit corroborates with our spirit in every aspect of our lives.

He’s there in a business meeting and in the living room while we’re watching TV.

He’s at our dinner table, and He’s watching over us at bedtime.

God never leaves us, nor would we want Him to. As stipulated in Zechariah 2:8- apple of His eye-refers to the pupil, a valuable and vulnerable part of the body. This metaphor functions to express God’s deepest feelings for His children.

God, King of the Universe, is our biggest treasure, and the most precious part of our lives and heart.

Return His love unconditionally, and then be still and watch God work. (Psalm 46:10)

 

“Lord, thank You for everything in my life, past, present, and to come. I am Yours, and place my trust in You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? 

Psalm 42:2 KJV

DEAR GOD: So Good to Make New Friends~

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Image result for free pictures of two girlfriends with god

Proverbs 18:24 (KJV)

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Being reserved and quietly “introverted” my entire life, it isn’t unusual that I’ve been labeled unfairly from individuals who didn’t know me personally.

I’ve been called a “snob” at various times in my life. Especially while in school. I not only was shy but couldn’t see two feet ahead of me. As a matter of fact, it wasn’t until fourth grade I learned I needed glasses.  So not only was I unable to see two feet ahead of me I was shy, so it was a natural assumption that I was standoffish and snobby.  Nothing was further than the truth!

God always had my back, my front and center. He was the go-to for all of my miseries, and all of my jubilations. He is the center of my Universe; He is MY Universe!

He designed me with His hands of grace. He knows I’m quiet. He knows what I need, what I can tolerate, and what I cannot. He has always provided and guided me through it all.

I’ve made a new friend in Christ, and we connected right away. Christ said, you will know them by their fruits (Matthew 7:16-23) and I knew this new friend was bearing fruits of Christ. So, to that end we clicked.

When two souls for Christ meet there is an instant connection, it is by the vine of Christ we are entangled. When we are in Christ, we share the same connection. Also, important to note is that Christ will bring others in and out of our lives for reasons. Sometimes it is for a moment, a season, or forever planted in your life.

Romans 12:4–5 — New Living Translation (NLT) Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.

For me to reach out to someone I don’t “know” is outside of my comfort zone. I believe Christ is showing me a new world of “openness” in Him. That it is perfectly okay to seek others and share with them whatever He gives me to share. So, the Spirit placed a “need” for me to reach out to this new friend, and it was instant and a mutual road of ease, comfort and the beginning of a friendship.

Trusting in God to provide and show the pathways in life that are best to walk on is essential to our prowess as Christians. God is the counterbalance to my inert shyness; He is the extrovert behind the scenes in my journey.

Proverbs 3:4-6 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.  

He is showing me how to become more trusting, more open, and more adventurous in all I do, within reason. I guess the real message is, “trusting in Him even more than I ever have before in my entire life. ”

 “Dear God, I trust You; I love You; I will follow You, guide my paths, bring me fully into Your fold of love and kindness, may I show Your reflection to those I encounter, today and all the days of my life, and thank You for new friends in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

Sermon Categories Gospel of John - Hope Christian Church

To My Greatest Friend of All — My LORD and Savior—Jesus Christ!