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DEAR GOD: Many Honked For You~

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1 Peter 1:3

 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

As my husband and I approached an intersection while traveling last week, we heard horns “honking” and applause.  Obviously, something was going on, and we were trying to figure out a way to avoid the crowd.  But upon a closer look, we realized the applause and honking was for Jesus Christ!

We’ve heard about things like this before. I’m sure many of you reading this have. However, to be a part of the “overt love” for Christ was overwhelmingly powerful.  To witness the gathering and love of Christ was indescribable.

There was a man in the middle of the road with a Cross, and those surrounding the cross were dressed in clothing of that time.  The sign read “He died for You. Honk and clap if you love Him.”  (John 316)

The honking and clapping sounded like a “symphony” to us. It was a cord of sweet music, and an honorary choir of standing in a makeshift orchestra that represented “love for Christ” in a major overture culminating to “we believe, we love, we stand for Christ.”

When there is unison within a crowd of people of fellow believers it brings tears to my eyes. And a sense of hope that there are still so many who do turn to God and follow His Word. His word endures forever. All things perish and come to an end. But His Word lives forever.    (Isaiah 40:8)

His Word is a tool of strength and guidance in all we do. His love is an umbrella that covers a multitude of sins. And His grace is a balm for our souls. Of course we HONK and CLAP for CHRIST!

If you have any doubt as to whether you would honk all you have to do is “look at the cross.”

“Honk and applause anyone?”

“Father God, thank You for giving Your Son up to sacrifice to save us, thank You for You love, and I honor You, and adore You, all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: How Do We Handle Snapping People?

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How To Stop Gossiping About People: 7 No Nonsense Tips!

Ephesians 4:29“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”

I saw a snapping turtle on the road while driving through the woods. My husband and I smiled at the huge fellow!  This ancient reptile turned to look at us and snapped in the air, as if to say, “get moving there if you know what’s good for you all.”  Well, needless to say we respect nature and wildlife, and we were on our way in seconds. “Snap.”  It reminded me of some individuals I’ve encountered in my lifetime.

You may know some of these mortals yourselves. The type that loves to “snip” and “snap” about others. Or are apt to “snap “at someone with a veracity that can only be described as “vicious.” Just downright mean! Mindless cruel gossiping is how I’d describe it.

As children of God…How do we handle these situations? How do we handle mortals with such an immoral standard of ethics? What do we do? What does God want us to do?

Well, God wants us to gently guide and admonish in a way that is constructive, without being critically impertinent. We are to be humble about it. Think fairly and go to the Word for advice, and where you will always find “sage wisdom” and full written out instructions.

Humility –Along with humility correct Biblical knowledge must ensue. We need to admonish others based solely on God’s Word. Encourage one another based on God’s Word. If something is said without Biblical truths, it will be worthless. An exercise in fertility.  Because when we know the Word, if someone tries to say or do something that is not aligned with His Word, standards, or truths; we will automatically know it’s “wrong.”

2 Tim 3:14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it…

Patience- is an important virtue of the Spirit. We need to instruct others with respect and a manner of peace. No fighting, nor divisions. It is impossible to teach while convincing anyone of mistakes. They won’t know any better and thing that the dialogue they’re using, and the “snapping” they’re doing in natural in their minds eye.

Also do be mindful and overly cautious about not having an “ego” and using it in a way that is bragging about “how much you know” and “how little” they know!

Approach in meekness and endurance of a Christian on a mission. Not an ego stating loudly, “I’m better than you!”

Ephesians 4:2-3 “With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;”

It bears mentioned here that we shouldn’t force anyone to “believe” or to do as “we say.”  It is not about us. It’s about God and His mission, His reasons for using us as His servants. We can only gently guide through the Spirit and pave the way. It’s not our job to mold the individual, that is up to God. He is the potter; we are the clay. (Isaiah 64:8)

Respecting others and having an appropriate demeanor when addressing an issue, especially a nasty tongue or a gossiping intruder that speaks of controversial subjects.  It is important to come from an area of repose and respect and honor in the LORD’s name. But if after a time the individual is not responsive, then it’s wise to take leave and move on.

Titus 3:9- But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. (10) Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. (11) You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

Based on all this. We understand that a good friend, or Christian admonishes and helps to adjust Christ’s body. We hope to lead them to understand that if they only would align themselves with the Word and God’s will, life could be very different.  This can only be done with love, humility peace, meekness, and a vast amount of Biblical wisdom.

Proverbs 15:31-33- Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. (32) Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. (33) Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.

Whatever we do we must adhere to a manner in which we assume Christ’s position and commandments. We are human and of course we will all fall short, no one is perfect. Only ONE is perfect, and that is our Heavenly Father who is pure and Holy.

 Matthew 5:48-Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

We can try our best, help to shine His light where we can. And apply corrective measures in a way that can at times, be uncomfortable, but when it is done in the spirit and in a manner of Biblical standards, it will be easier to uphold.

Father, God – I thank You for Your Word, Your truth, and Your guidance, may I follow all that You purpose for my life, now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: I Want to Serve You Even on Quiet Days ~

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Psalm 46:10 -Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

In moments of quiet solitude, I seem to seek the LORD more. During the chaotic moments, which encompasses things happening in my siblings’ lives, friends’ lives and the world overall, I do seek the LORD as well.  However, it is especially during the quiet seconds that I fully envelop my being with His Being; and become overlapped in His Presence in a way I normally wouldn’t in chaos.

Now, this may be true for all those of faith. Or not.  But I do know we all have different ways of reaching out to Him. And of course, different ways of honoring Him while persistently glorifying Him.  Consequently, the end result is more or less, “we love the LORD” and are following Him the best we can. Doing all we can to assure our inherent rights as a child of God and a child of light.

There are times where I will just sit and don’t move, due to physical pain or emotional issues I’ve encountered. I wonder if others feel the same way when sitting. Do they hear the verse, from Psalm 40:6?  Do they feel the subtle nudging of the Holy Spirit pulling guiding them? Do they hear His booming voice in the quietest fashion? His whisper is deafening in terms of realization and comprehension.

Through the course of the day, every second, minute, hour and moment that has gone by, doesn’t go unnoticed by God. For it is He alone that hears my thoughts, and I subsist on His love and His grace. He alone is the tower of strength, that unfolds in my weakest hour. He alone is the ladder I climb, when I’m on the last rung.  He is the mountain I scale when I am crawling in a valley. And He alone is the One that carries me through all of my darkest times, all the while shining His light unto the path in front of me.  Psalm 119:105 – “His Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

It is unfathomable to think that right this moment, there are those who don’t know the immense joy and pleasure of His love. There are those who don’t hear or read the sweet Words in His book. There are those who are enshrouded by a cover of darkness, not realizing there is a brilliant light waiting to shine, if they’d only accept Him.

To deny Christ, is to deny breath. To deny Christ, is to deny life. To deny Christ, is to deny eternity. And to deny Christ is to deny a path of assurance in His promises and His gift of salvation.

For those of you wondering who our LORD is. Open His book and read all about Him!  I guarantee you that an enrichment, coupled with jubilation and peace will burst forth, when you accept Him as LORD and Savior.

The Spirit of Christ will dwell in you, and your existence will become a life worth living, irrespective of your financial situation, health, emotional upheavals, or broken hearts.  He is the healer of all things. The One who is capable of binding you up, healing you while offering His unconditional and unsurpassable love.

Living Water will be with you, and you shall never thirst again.  It will flow from you the waters of life. ( John 7:38)

Do you want a life that is filled by His Peace and Presence? Do you long for love that will never let you down? Seek Him while He can be found. Then sit down with Him and pour out your heart, He listens and understands, everything!  And He will love you no matter what. Now, I ask you this— isn’t that the kind of relationship we all want? Amen!

“Father God, thank You for the moments in my life, thank You for holding me in the good times and bad, and thanks for loving me no matter what, I am Yours and Yours alone, and I surrender to You in all I do, may I follow You will and plan for my life, today, tomorrow and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Is There More Traffic On the Way to Heaven or Hell?

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Matthew 25:46 – And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

 

 

Driving to an early appointment this morning while lost in thought I glanced at the cars on both sides of the road. Endless cars with individuals on their way to an event, appointment, work or something other, and I thought “is there more traffic on the way to Heaven or hell?”

Sadly, I immediately thought, “probably Hell” as evidenced by circumstances on the news, and even within our own neighborhoods, stores and such.  Then I quickly thought about those who are true to God and His commandments. And all of the “silent” heroes in the world today. The people who give of themselves unconditionally without regard to “recompense” in terms of monetary value or status. Those who fight for the underdog, and who are willing to take a firm stand in Christ’ name.

I thought about the countless frontline workers facing emergencies on a daily basis. The EMT workers, and Emergency Room medical staff.  Those volunteering in an animal shelter and working tirelessly to get placement for those who are “about to be surrendered” due to lack of room. Those who take time to visit an elderly neighbor to check in on them, just to say “hi.”  Those visiting a nursing home and bring a gift, or hold their hands, and listen just to lift them up.  These things, and so much more are comprised of a selfless heart, and love of God and others.

 There are still individuals who act “behind” the scenes. Unfortunately stories about “goodness” is very rarely shown any longer, because sensationalism and perverseness seem to top the list at this moment in time.

For those who still walk the narrow path of righteousness, and for those who try,I would have to change my original thought about “is there more traffic on the way to Heaven or Hell” and say without a doubt, there is “more traffic on the way to Heaven.”

I believe the Bible and the overall plan of God and know that Christ defeated the world and death. I know He is coming back, and I know the rewards of those who follow Him.

So, for now this is the plan. Keep doing all you can to please Him and follow Him and His commandments exclusively. Put your trust in Him alone and worship and glorify Him totally.

Then wait patiently in line because you’ll be sitting in some major heavy-duty traffic on the way to Heaven!

“Father God, may I do all You have planned for my life today tomorrow and always, and I look forward to meeting You in person, for now, I intend to follow You and You alone, in Jesus’ name, Amen.” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Thank You for Your Messages & Word~

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How Can We be Sure Heaven is a Real Place? - Trending Christian Blog

 

Matthew 16:19- And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. –

His message and His voice are clear. He wants us to share and promote His Word and His love. He gives us countless warnings and predictions, miracles and overwhelming evidence in the Bible.  All of the incidents and undisputable truths and depictions starting in Genesis in the Old Testament, right down to the last book of Revelation in the New Testament.

When we take the time to review and digest it and understand His whole plan for us and for the world, we get to assist Him in ways we are called to do bringing it all to fruition. We are able to be His servants and bring light into the darkness, through Christ. It isn’t our “own power” but His that brings things to pass. It is under His wings and His guidance and direction, and infinite and mighty power that we are able to accomplish such things.

When He says ” whatever we do here on earth will be loosed in heaven” simply stated means; our acts and deeds that we perform here in the flesh, will follow us in spirit when we pass away.

When we get to heaven we are judged, and it will be based on numerous factors. Our deeds, our compassion for others, our kindness to strangers, our obedience to Him, and our fundamental behavior as Christians overall. And our belief in His Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and King.

When we do good here on earth and are in alignment with His doctrine and Word and avoid the evil aspects of the world…we will bring that with us to the afterlife.  When we sin continuously have no regard for His Word or commandments, and live haphazardly in a den of iniquity, we will have to face the LORD and the terrible day of reckoning.

We will either be rewarded for such deeds. Or we won’t. there really isn’t any other way. You’re for Him. Or you’re not.

Which category do you fall into? Are you ready for the day of reckoning? Do you know Christ intimately? Or is He merely a “name” to you? Which side of the gulf will you be on when you pass away?

“And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence”.Luke 16:26

 

“Father, thank You for Your Word, and Your guidance and Presence, may I be a vessel and servant for You all the days of my life, lead me LORD and know I live for You now and always, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Little Seeds Of Faith: Proverbs 3:1 Sunday School Lesson Idea

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.”