Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”

Psalm 91 (KJV)

This is what I’ve been reading and holding in my heart each day as we go through the perilous and “anxious” days of the Coronavirus.  It is touching all of us in heart spirit and soul.

Trusting in God, and knowing His promises are real, with no expiration, is the continuous assurance I/we need in these days.  Knowing that He is with us, no matter what is happening, should bring rewards of peace to our inner spirit.

Reading, and taking into account, each and every word of Psalm 91, is exactly what we need to embrace at this time in our life/lives. This is when the very timbre of our inner selves are brought to the fires of probation, in terms of believing no matter how deep the valley, or how hot the furnace is. With God providing for us and sustaining us in all of our needs, we should be able to trudge forward with a tenacity of strength that we only can get through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Trusting God and taking refuge in His promises, and His love, is the biggest “weapon” and “defense” for our present day times, and for ALL  days thereafter.

My brother and sisters, may God be with you all at this time. I pray for a fast and speedy clearance of this current “monster” that is circling about us  seeking to devour us and destroy us, this is when we hold tighter to the promises and Word of the Lord.

Believe in Him!

Trust in Him!

Allow Him to quench your thirst, and to extinguish your rising “anxiety” and bring forth an overflow of peace and joy.

With God in our corner, we can only “win” and the “enemy” will always lose!

“Dear Father, we embrace Your promises, and Your love, to thwart the fiery darts that come upon us, that no harm will come to us Your children, that no matter what is happening all around us, we shall abide and remain in the shelter of Your mighty wings, we look to You, Abba Father, to bring this current time of crisis under control, and stop this virus, while protecting us, in Jesus name Amen.”

Psalm 91 (KJV)

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
 
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
 
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
 
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
 
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
 
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
 
Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
 
There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
 
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
 
They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
 
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
 
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
 
He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
 
With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

“For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.” —

Psalm 48:14

What a wonderful promise from God!

The Bible tells us that our Father has promised to guide the believer unto death. Guide in Hebrew is, nahag, translated… “to drive, lead, guide, conduct.” It is important for those of faith to understand that guide means just that…to guide. It is a gentle way to lead us onto the right path. God would never “force us”— but instead He has promised to lead us through this life. Hoping that we will do the “right thing” and so He would never force us to do the “right thing. ”

I wanted to be clear about the “guide” promise, so I’ve repeated it a couple of different ways. It’s so vital to our purpose and realization of faith in God.

In the Bible, God has never forced anyone to do things. He guides and hopes we listen, obey and pay heed to His gentle nudge.

He didn’t force David to kill Goliath.  David listened and had faith in God and was guided.

He didn’t force Noah to build an Ark. Noah listened, had faith,  obeyed God, and so He was guided.

God never forced Himself on humans. He always gives free choice, and His promises are real and forthcoming to those who embrace them.

Deep abiding faith is electric and powerful. It allows God to use us according to His purpose and will for our lives. He makes things happen, as He guides and leads us.

John 10:11-27 states: “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep… My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” We are the sheep and Jesus Christ is the Divine Shepherd who guides us. As we follow Him, He leads us to the green pastures and the still water (Psalm 23)

Today in the uncertainty of our world, with media speaking about unthinkable terrors, including viruses, earthquakes, tornadoes, wars, conflict…isn’t it wonderful as faithful followers that we can RUN to Him and follow Him as He guides and leads?

It is up to us to trust Him (Proverbs 3:5-8) and to look to Him as He continuously guides and leads us unto paths of righteousness. He will bring us through any valley, and never leave or forsake us.

But…we make the choice.

When we trust and know He is God, as we are still and acknowledging His magnificence and Sovereignty (Psalm 46:10) we will be superbly rewarded and our cup will overflow.

The bounty and joy from loving Him and surrendering to Him as He leads and guides us as we embrace His promises is exhilarating! He knows us so well. He knows our heart, thoughts and desires. He promises to deliver on all of His promises. But…he will never force us. That choice He leaves to us.

Making the choice is yours…which way will you go?

“Father God, thank You for Your hands of grace, as you lead, and guide me, through all the roads in my life, and thank You, for Your promises, I shall listen, follow, and acknowledge You, all the days of my life, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Psalms 139:1-6:

“O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.”

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”

Hebrews 13:8 (KJV)

Knowing Jesus and having Him with me in a close intimate relationship is a gift and a treasure I hold fast in my heart.  Knowing Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever…a source of joy and peace that is embedded in my soul.

We all try to be good Christians and we do our part as we get into the daily grind of living. Each one of us in possession of different personalities, backgrounds, and gifts given to us from above; however we all share a common cord, a spiritual umbilicus if you will, to Christ our Lord.

Those of us fortunate enough to “know Him now” are blessed indeed. As Jesus said to Simon:  He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 16:15-17 ( KJV)

Blessed are we all who know Him now, for He will know us in heaven and great will be our rewards.

But right now, embrace Him and enjoy the gifts He’s blessed you with. Enjoy His presence from within to without, and shine your light as an example of His glorious light!

Look around, see the world, know the signs, and remember the promises of the Bible. They’re all there, thousands and thousands of years old, but as “new as the morning sunrise” — He is with us always, today and always.

Unfortunate circumstances prevail but won’t trump God!  God is the winner and Reigns Supreme and is the Omnipotent and ever present and Power Great I AM!

Knowing He is with us every step of the way is a gift from the Heavenly Father of light.  He is the anchor in the storms, and the lighthouse in the fog, and the house in which we dwell all the days of our life.

Are you embracing the gift of Jesus?

“Father, I know that You are with us always, and that You are the same yesterday, today, tomorrow, and forever, thank You for Your promises, for Your light, for Your love, and for Your protection every single second of life here, and forever, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Matthew 28:20 NKJV

 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

There are a myriad of concerns, and issues, that have the world in its grip, threatening to pull back the very layers of Christianity, that most of us are firmly rooted in. Alas, there are those who haven’t the layers of “protection” in terms of His Word, and promises, and therefore, are missing out on peace, that only God offers, to each and every one of us who believe.

Those who follow Him, Jesus promises, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world give, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let is be fearful…” (John 14:27)

If you will recall, Jesus, spoke these loving, and comforting words, during the most difficult time on earth, the night before His brutal crucifixion.  Yet, here was our Savior, providing and offering solace, and comfort with His overwhelming promise, that is as honey and balm for our souls.

Jesus, has many names, and one of which is Lord of Peace. That He is our Peace, is the truth that Christians embrace during good times; and during our trials and valleys.

Paul, tells us how to experience God’s peace, instead of anxious behavior, or catastrophic thinking, that we should pray with thankfulness. That we should tap into the knowledge of Christ’ promise, and therefore have no reason for anxiety.

Anxiety or anxious behavior, is something we are instructed to put off, because of our faith in Him.

Praying, is the how we are to approach our situations, or life overall.

And peace is the fundamental end result we receive, as promised by Christ Himself.

This peace, that comes from the LORD, who is our Sovereign, Omnipotent Creator of the Universe, is something that every child of His knows, and it is truly indescribable to those who “do not know.”

Our LORD, promises us His peace, which is real….and not as the world gives it, no…but as He gives it.

Praise Him, because when you’ve experienced it,  through faith,  it is joyful. It’s sheer exhilaration that far exceeds verbal explanation. It must be “felt” to know what His promise means.

And the intimate ongoing relationship that we have with Him, through prayers, and dedication, and trust…is a daily deposit that has dividends that continue to grow exponentially! Developing into a full blown maturity that will be “pay day” at the end of our life.

Praying for others, and giving of ourselves, in purpose, according to His will…is inherently a blessing, that is provided by the Master Himself. The rewards of praying are satisfying in numerous ways.  But knowing Him, loving Him, and realizing He’s listening, and loving us all the while… is a tangible art of recognition in who He is…and who we are!

His children, His sheep, His lambs.

Pray fervently.

Love deeply.

And trust fully.

In His promises, and in His love.

Remember, Jesus’ words: “Be anxious for nothing.” In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made it clear that anxiety stems from a lack of faith, and from a wrong focus on the things of this world, instead of on the kingdom of God. (Matthew 6:25-34)

We are human, and subject to the “afflictions of flesh” but the anxiety we face, and feel at times, we must confront it, and realize that we need to pray and seek God and His kingdom in all we do. When we do…we are grafted onto the truth of His promises, and His provisions to see us through everything and anything.

Our Father wants Christians to have joy in every situation, not just so that they’ll be happy, but so that they will be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ  (Philippians 2:14-18.) 

There are so many things Christians can talk about concerning their faith. Things such as testimonies, miracles, moments when they come to the LORD, prayers that are answered, etc.  However, feeling safe, calm, and secure, knowing He loves us, beyond a capacity in which we cannot comprehend.   He will always be with us…every single moment of our life, until our last breath.  Then, we get to spend Eternity with Him as we reap the rewards of our faith filled lives. Oh Joy!

Are you equipped with the belief of His promises? 

“Father God, thank You for listening to our prayers, for offering us Your peace, and for loving us unconditionally, in all that we do, we do with thanks, and unrelenting praise, in Jesus, precious, and most Holy name, Amen.”

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)

So I was out doing errands very early this morning and all was going peacefully and easily.  At the very last leg of my journey, I stopped into a local store to purchase a couple of items.

When I returned to my home, something was missing. I couldn’t find my cell phone!  My heart began to pound like a race horse at the starting gate!

Now before all of you think I was panicking about my phone…not so.

I was panicking because in my cell phone’s case there were important items. Namely, my “drivers license, bank debit card,  and medical insurance card”—that’s why I panicked!

Within the next 45 minutes, my mind, heart, body and soul, went into overdrive panic mode.  I called banks, the motor vehicle bureau, and life lock, and my cell phone carrier.

Then I spoke to the manager in the store,  where I believe I had left my phone and personal identification items.

I pleaded for her to look at the video in the store to see who might have taken my phone and valuable cards.

She was kind, pleasant, and did look for me.  She assured me that no one took my phone.  She said she discovered there was a thief behind me on line,  who did steal many items in there, and she was thankful that by looking for me she found the thief…but that thief didn’t take my phone, although she’d shoplifted plenty of items that were in her bag.

I began to wail and sob so badly, that my poor dog ran over to me not knowing what to do, so he cried along with me. Precious little boy.

Okay, so where was I? — Yes, so chaos.  Disruption.  Anxiety.  Frustration.  These are not of God.

I searched my car from back to front.

From front to back.

And, did it numerous times.

I was on my way to fill out a police report, when I cried out really loud to God, “Please dear LORD!  Help me!  Please…let me find my phone and items.  I am so frightened of someone having all of my personal info. Please help me!  In Jesus Christ name, help me!”

Well, as I got back into my car.  There it was!

My cell phone sitting there!

I know it wasn’t there before.

I know because I looked a dozen times or more.

God heard me. and suddenly He granted me His perfect PEACE!

I went from Chaotic overdrive lunacy…to tranquil peaceful bliss!

Boom! Just like that.

Guess who managed to do all this? 

My Lord, He never fails me.

He is always there!

So praise Him and His holy ways!

Praise Him and His name!

Praise Him night and day!

Praise Him for bringing me down from overdrive and placing me into neutral and eventually…cruise mode!

Now I ask, “How great is our God?”

“Father, thank You for answering my cries, thank You for hearing me from Your Holy hills and throne, and thank You for loving me as You do, to You all the glory, now and always, in Jesus name, Amen.”

“Oh and thank You Father for letting them discover that thief while looking at the video, which they normally wouldn’t have done.  So, You were behind that too!  You’re amazing! Amen!”

Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy Word. 

Psalm 119:17 (KJV)

The purpose of rebuke is to bring a deeper relationship with the LORD, and to correct people in the process.  Deal bountifully, translates the Hebrew word for “recompense” or “benefit.”

When we are loyal and faithful, our righteousness is maintained by the value we place on God’s Word, and our obedience to it. To meditate is not to empty one’s mind, but instead, our mind should be completely “filled to capacity” with our loving Father’s Word and instructions. In this way we are able to internalize it and bring it to fruition in all we do on a daily basis.

Listening and meditating on the Word shouldn’t  be considered just a “Sabbath” day occurrence, or a weekly ritual.  Instead, it should be part of our everyday life.  It should be with us to carry on all that we encounter in this world and in our life.

Finding time for God and listening, especially when He “rebukes us” is essential to our growth overall as His faithful followers, or “His Sheep.”  We are to hear Him, and acquiesce accordingly whether through His blessings, or His “correction” concerning our behavior or mind-set.

When we adhere to the purpose of His will for each and everyone of us, we are on the path to harmony and we shall reside under His watchful eye and protective wings.  Going astray and ignoring “His voice” at any time is detrimental to our Spiritual growth and soul, but…especially in times in which His hands guide us and direct us, and remind us of our “sinning.”

Remember, Christ’ blood redeemed us, and His love saved us.

Parent’s correct their children as they grow, because they love them.

So too does our Father correct us in order for us to grow and to shine, therefore getting us ready for our eternal rewards.

When God rebukes you, say “Thank You Father, I needed that!”

“Dear Abba Father, thank You for the depth of Your love that You should care enough to remind, guide, instruct and rebuke as needed, where needed, and when needed, all glory and honor be Yours forever, in Jesus name, Amen.”

For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear.

2 Timothy 4:3 (NLT)

Have you ever experienced a restlessness within? 

A deep and relentless uneasiness? 

Have you been praying for guidance, direction? 

Have you been seeking God for answers? 

Or are you listening to others supplying information that is what you “want to hear?”

Or are you waiting for His confirmation, guidance, truth and will for your life?

The apostle Paul wrote a warning for the church:  “The time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear” (2Tim 4:3) 

What is the inspired Word actually saying to us today?  Well, it’s the same meaning as it was from the days of old.  It means that people will want to listen to “what others” say to satisfy what they want to “hear” and to “do.”  Instead of listening to the “inner spirit” which is truth, and God’s voice, or direction.

How do we interpret it in our own life?  Well, sometimes it becomes readily apparent in a variety of ways.

One example might be through another individual that hasn’t anything to do with what you’re trying to figure out. Which could be God’s hand guiding you.

Or you might get a “Word” that will ultimately bring confirmation to what it is you’ve been struggling with, praying about, or essentially feeling restless about.

Consequently the most important aspect of all of this is “His Word” is a guide and its His truth we seek for the foundation of our life

A Chaplain  friend of mine put it perfectly recently when he said: “Restlessness is either an itch or an urge. If it’s an itch, after you have scratched at it a little, it will probably disappear.  If it’s an urge, no matter how much you scratch at it or try to ignore it, it will keep coming back to you – often confirmed from other people who may not have any connection with each other. That will be a sign of divine discontent, as God confirms his next step for you.”

Couldn’t have said it any better…and an excellent example of God’s will and purpose for our lives.  Thanks Chaplain!

Have patience, as God’s timing is always best.

“Listen” to His voice, and not our own.

And wait for that confirmation which will surely come.

Examine the restlessness from within and try to wait for a “perfect peace” that will be undoubtedly be God showing us and guiding us onto the path in which we will ultimately prosper.  Even if it isn’t what “your ears” have been telling you, if it’s God’s will your “itch” will be gone and in its place, God’s love and divine hands of grace showing us the way…

“Father God, help us to discern the difference between a restlessness,  from a purpose for our lives, guide us and light the path in which we should take, in Jesus name, Amen.”

John 8:32 – And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

“If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” 

Mark 4:23 (NKJV)

God’s guidance is of no value if we will not listen. He is speaking to us in many ways, personally, or through another individual who may have said something, or been through a certain situation that applies to your life.  That’s “speaking” to us…

Listen…

The primary way of speaking with us is through “HIS WORD” the Holy Bible.  It is the biggest aspect in which and of which we are to live.  He speaks to us through His Word as we read it becomes very clear.  As we pray, we need to “listen.”  Really listen.  If we’re talking all the time, let me ask you this, how then can we “hear Him?”

Listen…

Before we start talking or complaining, take time to sit quietly and “listen.”  Or ask Him to give you the ability to sit and be attentive to Him.  “Dear Father, help me to understand Your plan for my life, fully and completely, speak to me my LORD so that I can “hear” and follow plans according to Your desire for my life, in Jesus name, Amen.”

Listen…

He wants to guide us in all aspects of our life, each and every moment of our life.  Sometimes, we can “hear” but might not want to go forward with what we’re hearing.   Our flesh might clash with the Spirit and we avoid doing what we “hear.”  But, to avoid what we’re “hearing” from Him, is to miss out on the difference between a ‘blessing’ for our life versus the lack of a blessing… or the difference between peace and chaos.

Listen…

We need to be positive about what we’re “hearing” but when we ask God to open our “ears” and “listen“ —- just as Jesus instructed us to do, we will undoubtedly “hear” because the LORD wants us to be fruitful and obedient, and what better way but to “hear” and “listen.”

Listen…

He has a perfect plan for us.  He is a God of love, unconditional love. He loves us irrespective of whether we listen or not.  However when we “listen” and we become “quiet” we are in for a way of life that will be productive, indestructible, and immeasurable in joy and tranquility.

Are you “listening” to the Father? 

Shush…can you hear Him?

Be quiet and watch what happens to your spirit and life, Amen!

“Father, thank You for speaking to us and guiding us, we know you help us to jump over the hurdles in our life, and we pray that we always “hear” and “listen” to You and Your Word, in Jesus name, Amen.”

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

For where two or three are gathered together in my name,

there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew 18:20 (KJV)

Being part of a fellowship that shares the love of Christ is not only satisfying in a spiritual and unifying sense, but also in alignment with following Jesus’ commandments to go and spread the good news.  It not only brings a cohesive movement of the body of Christ into our realm of existence, it also breathes life into all who are part of it.  Speaking the Word, and bringing the Word, brings life to both those that speak and hear it.

Life!

In chapter 18 of the book of the Prophet Ezekiel, there was the vision of “dry bones“ (Ezekiel 18) The reviving of the dry bones signified God’s plan for Israel’s future national restoration. The vision  showed Israel’s new life depended on God’s power and not the circumstances of the people. Putting “breath” by God’s Spirit into the dry bones showed that God would not only restore them physically, but more important, spiritually.

And today, spiritually there are a vast amount of “dead bones” that need restoration, and the breath of God to bring many to “life” — by His Word and by His power.

Last evening I spoke with a dear and beloved Christian friend, a true sister in Christ.  She and I were fellowshipping, and speaking the Word, encouraging each other with scriptural verses, and praise for the LORD.  While doing so, we knew that the LORD was with us as we prayed, and glorified Him, and spoke the Word.

My friend has limited  physical capacity in her daily life. Due to these medical issues , she’s virtually a recluse, due to her inability to “walk and get around” — so in a sense, she’s a “prisoner” in a beautiful house in Maine—in the middle of nowhere.  She hasn’t been out in months, can’t even get to the doctor, and truly is “chained to her house” due to her physical maladies.  She’s a widow  living alone, which makes her feel more isolated and desolate, but her strong faith keeps her motivated.

The LORD continuously sends laborers to her door for her care;  doctors that make house calls, people to meet her needs, and so of course, Glory be to God as He provides ongoing care to His beloved child.

During prayers she travailed in the spirit due to her circumstances; crying, “I wish I could get to a church I’d say, ‘here I am God’. ”   I reminded her gently, that Jesus said, “wherever two or three are gathered in my name, there will I be.”    

The message of my post...Jesus promises He is with us always.

So, no matter the circumstances, where you pray, where you speak to Him, He “hears and sees” and “He is with you.”   So for those who are unable to attend a church,  or unable to get out, or are hurting physically, please know that He is with you, no matter what the circumstances may be.  And, He fully understands.

He sees your heart, knows your heart, and loves you with a capacity that far exceeds our human mind of comprehension.

The LORD breathes life into His followers— uplifts—restores, and gives strength, to get us through our storms.

The LORD never leaves us…never forsakes us…and while we’re in the valley, or experiencing an unrelenting dark period—He is there extending His hand to pull us out, offering us His peace and a safe sanctuary,  therefore making us even stronger than before the trial we have just endured.

Breathe

Live

Love

And remember…speaking His Word, hearing His Word, living His word will not only fortify and allow for our spiritual growth,  but His Sovereign magnificent power will electrify us into delivering someone, ultimately bringing “new life” into their bones in Jesus name!

” For Dee — God loves you and so do I!  To God be the Glory!”

“Father God, thank You for being with us always and breathing life into us through Your power and Your word, in Jesus name, Amen.”