Category Archives: Worship

DEAR GOD: I love You and Choose You~

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Dear God: I Choose You~  

Daniel understood God’s law prohibited eating foods that were being offered to idols. He was in Babylon in full captivity—a place that worshiped false gods—when he soon faced a difficult decision. King Nebuchadnezzar demanded that only the finest foods be sent for Daniel’s consumption, but only after being presented to idols.

The question became for Daniel “was it better to merely obey the king—or, disobey God to please the king? The underlying issues were about allegiance to God. He could have reasoned that breaking the divine command was because he had no choice, that he was just a servant. That would have been an easy justification for disobedience. However, Daniel was filled with a driven desire to do what was right in the eyes of God—and so as a result, he resolved not to eat the royal food, and sought instead, for a way that would honor the Lord by keeping God’s laws.

Prayer and a reverent mind and heart helped Daniel, and through God, he was strengthened, and able to pursue the righteous path instead of the thorny road.

It’s vital to realize that obeying God is clearly the right choice. No matter what the world is doing, or what your friends think is “cool” – outside of God’s will and laws, it’s like walking the tightrope without the protective net below. However, with God—should we fall, or slip…He is always there to catch us.

Prayers and daily dedication/worship is the preponderance of servitude in His eyes. To become like Daniel, it’s crucial to facilitate a wholehearted commitment to follow the Lord and consistently apply Scripture to circumstances and decisions. Then, when a challenge comes, we’ll have the courage and wisdom to obey God’s commands.

Which path will you choose?

 

“Father, my Lord, thank You for loving Your children, and protecting us under the auspices of Your Sovereign Power and love, I choose You and only You, I serve You and only You, and I love You more than I can say, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

 

 

25 Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.
26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end.
27 He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.
28 So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.
Daniel 6:26-28 (KJV)

DEAR GOD: Waiting and Listening and Loving You~

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Personally, I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who likes to “wait.”  People invariably become impatient while waiting at the Doctor’s office, at the Dentist’s office, waiting in line at the Supermarket, or the Bank.  Even in a restaurant, we get antsy waiting for our food, or for the server to approach our table, at times I’ve witnessed people slamming down their menus and walking out as they grew weary of waiting!

So, if that sounds like you, you’re not alone. It’s part of being human, no one can truly say, (at least I never heard it!) “hey, I enjoy waiting…it’s in my DNA to wait, I love it!)  If you do enjoy waiting, then you are a rare one indeed.

But, what about waiting on God?  That is an entirely different scenario. However, people can grow impatient with waiting for their prayers to be answered, wondering if God hears them, or waiting for a sign or a deliverance from a situation. Hang on…and just do as God commands, “Be still, and know that I am God… Psalm 46:10”

When we wait patiently and with an open heart filled with joy of loving Him, the wait can become easier. God has a plan for us, all of us, and its according to His timing not ours. His plans are best for us, even if we think “we know it all” I assure you, we DO NOT!  We cannot be wise in our own eyes, for it is by His grace, and His wisdom and His divine protection that we catapult into a tranquil and loving “womb” of tolerance and decisions.

(Be not wise in your own eyes, revere the LORD and keep from evil, it shall be health to you navel and marrow for your bones…Proverbs 4:8 KJV)

Instead trust Him, lean on Him for all things, and all decisions, and know that He will guide your path.

(Trust the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 4:5-7 KJV)

When we wait on Him, trust Him, love Him,  exalt Him and surrender to Him, humble ourselves to Him, He will lift us, protect us, and bring prayers to fruition, should it be HIS WILL.

Keep that in mind, His will, again…not ours.

 

(And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him. Isaiah 30:18  KJV)

 

“Father, thank You for Your promises, Your unwavering and unconditional love, grace, and protection, may I always be close to Your heart, and may I always have You in my heart, in all that I do, may I seek You, and Your will, and wait for You, and give You all the glory, now and always, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Always & Forever~

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The Word became flesh, and dwelt among us,

and we beheld His glory,

the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,

full of grace and truth.”

John 1:14 (NKJV)

Whatever our Savior Jesus did, or said, it was always with grace, love, and most important, always in truth. He only spoke the truth. His words touched those within His sight when He walked among us. His words, and ways, continue touching and healing hearts to this very day.

Jesus was not gracious for just a moment in time, but every second of His time was loving, kind and filled with truth. Truth is “painful” for some. Sometimes, we don’t want to face the truth, or hear the truth. But, as it is said, “the truth will set you free.”

And, Jesus has set us free by coming, and defeating death. Our very Author of Salvation cleansed us with His purity, and His blood, which was willingly shed, for all.

The world is in chaos, and the enemy seems to be having a field day…especially these past several weeks. Confusion is” knocking” on many people’s doors. And, the advice Jesus would probably offer is “don’t open the door” God is not the creator of confusion, pain, or jarring images. He is the creator of peace and love, which equates into full blown tranquility.

As we go forward, and delve into His Word, and meditate on His word, we discover so much more each time. There are so many facets of God. His magnitude, and prolific Presence is all around us. We feel His love in all aspects of our daily life.

From the moment we open our eyes in the morning, we realize He has graced us with another day. To the moment we arrive safely to our given destinations during the day, He has protected us. To the moment we encounter friends, family…people we offer Godly counsel to, or a smile and touch of the hand. This is all thanks to God. To the moment we get ready for another night of sleep, as He watches over us. We may sleep, but remember this, God never does. He watches us, protects us constantly. Again, how reassuring is that?

So to those who are facing issues, personal or otherwise…those of you who are lonely, fearful, or those in need of a caring voice, or kind word, it’s okay. Because God hears, sees, and knows. He is with you each step of the way from the moment you are born, to the moment you leave this earth. You are never alone.

So, open your arms really wide, and walk into His loving embrace, and offer your love in return. There is no one anywhere in this entire Universe who loves you like He does.

Now, seriously… don’t you feel better just knowing that?

“…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”

John 28:20 (NKJV)

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Sustenance and Comfort~

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Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)

 

Illnesses can spark fears, worries and suffering with individuals and families, and can be emotionally crippling as we crumble under the pressures that sickness and adversity can bring.

The Bible is the “Voice” of the LORD who can help at all times in our life, but especially during the darkest days of our lives.  If we remember, during our crises, the “Word” can ultimately help the afflicted while seeking prayer for comfort and release from “anxieties” and “fear.”  Which is not from the LORD.

1 John 4:18  strongly emphasizes, that there is no fear in love, because perfect love casts out fear. We were all made in perfect love by our Creator.  Our LORD loves us, and brings peace and comfort, not fear. Fear creates worry, anxiety, and perpetuates in the negativity mode which can spiral out of control. When we do this, we are not perfected in love.  So, cast it away, for it is not from the LORD, and ask for His perfect peace and wisdom to guide you.

Psalm 107:20 is another example and great aspect of His power and love.  It states He sent His word and healed, He rescued them from the grave. Amen!

It is so important during times of stress, worry, pain, and sickness to remember that God ultimately holds the power not only to sustain and nourish us, but essentially, to “heal us.”  I cannot emphasize too much about the importance of keeping the faith amid the pain, worry and uncertainty.  He is there, He will never leave us.  He is our Sovereign God, and He reigns Supreme over all things, good and bad.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 is yet another fine example and strong component to solidify His love for us. He holds the power to offer each of us peace no matter what we are facing. When we seek that peace we are working toward a higher realm in Him as we go through the valley, with having a more God-reliant heart.

Phillipians 4:6 Is one of my favorites.  It tells us outright “not to be anxious about anything” but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God, the Creator and Master, and the One who is in Control of all things at all times. These Bible verses remind us that prayers, thanksgiving, along with petition are vitally important to our faith, and the Spirit in which we should approach God.

Luke 8:50 Jesus informs Jairus, “don’t be afraid; just believe and she will be healed.”  We are human, and with humanity is flesh which is prone to “well— human reactions.”  Fear is in fact a natural reaction to being diagnosed with an illness, or watching someone suffer an uphill health battle…but the Bible is our great source of Comfort, from the LORD who is the “voice” of peace, that Jesus heals. When we read biblical accounts of healing, we should feel confidence that while God’s will and plan triumphs all else, and overcoming health battles, worries, or anxieties, is absolutely possible!  Amen!

Isaiah 41:10 This passage is truly one of such comfort.  Knowing that God is with us, that He will strengthen us, and help us, and will uphold us with His righteous right hand!  He promises to offer comfort to those who seek Him.  When pain, suffering, illnesses, worry, anxiety hit you or a loved one, remember the LORD will ALWAYS guide you through the hard times.

To sum up a vitally crucial message in the LORD, remember this; no matter what happens be sure to place all of your fears, worries and hopes in the LORD.  Navigating tough times can be difficult, but with GOD all things are possible. Amen!

“Father, thank You for Your right hand of righteousness,  for Your love, Your peace, Your willingness to offer Comfort and guidance through all aspects of our lives, help us to remember to glorify You and give You all the praise, no matter what,  Your will be done, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Provisions are Endless~

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“Then I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God, for they shall return to Me with their whole heart.”

Jeremiah 24:7 (NKJV)

I love clouds. The different formations astound and fascinate me. They change within seconds creating different images as they roll by. Sometimes the clouds can be bilowy and graceful, or look menacing and aggressive. No matter, I love them all. Why? Because God is the artist, and His hands the master of all things.

This picture was captured while waiting for hubby to finish an errand… I looked up and smiled, knowing it was God who designed it. Clouds are like people. Each one has a different shape, and appearance. People can be light hearted, or dark and menacing.

In the context of clouds, they all belong to a “family” although each one has a “different name.” Personally my favorite is a “cumulus” cloud. You know the ones that look like big fluffs of marshmallows or cotton candy. These are so beautiful to watch.

People although different in looks, are all part of a “family.” We’re all brothers and sisters belonging to God. Some of us have already surrendered to God’s very capable hands. Some have not, and may never do so. However, irrespective of surrendering, we’re all human and have issues and problems. None of us are protected from a loss, or a hurtful situation. We all go through a medley of issues in our lifetime. Some good, some bad. there’s a balance of highs and lows for everyone. But it’s how we “resolve them” that matters.

God is the same since the beginning of time. He hasn’t changed, and all of His promises that He made to His children still exist to this day. Nothing has changed.

He wants us to seek Him., Jesus told us to “take His yoke” for it is easy and the burden light.” (Matthew 11:30)

His promise was true then, and it is now.

When we run to Him, His righteous hand will uphold and guide us, and make our issues easier. It’s faith that gives us the strength to endure the platitudes of misery. But it’s knowing that He’ll never let us down, and knowing that He’ll never give us “anything that we can’t handle” that’s the most reassuring of all. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

And, most important…He will ALWAYS show us a way out. How fortunate for those who believe and run to Him. How sad for those who don’t know the infinite peace, and joy, in knowing He is there for them.

If we could do things on our own, why would we need God?

He’s our everything for anything at all times. He’s our Holy Holy Lord…our Father.

He wants all of His children to love and trust Him. He longs for you to surrender and bow to Him in submission. All good things will flow to you. Blessings will flow. Love will flow. Life will flow…never ending life. The living waters will rush out for us to partake in. ”

And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.” (Zechariah 14:8)

When we humble ourselves in the Lord, and fully surrender, He will lift us up. He will lift those who need it. He will exalt the humble.

James 4:10 – Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

In all things, seek Him, trust Him fully. Give it to Him, for only God can do all things. Man cannot!

We NEED HIM.

Go to Him in prayer, and in pure heart, and with confidence…He will never forsake you, never leave you.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (Philippians 4:6).

Seek His face, go to Him with a contrite and loving heart.

Accept His will, surrender to His grace.

Remember this always…In His presence is where we are the strongest.

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. ( 2 Corinthians 12:9)

“Father, my Lord, thank You for Your grace, Your love, Your provisions, and Your consuming fire of compassion, I love You, and all honor and glory belong to You now and forever, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Word my Heart~

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Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

(Psalm 119:105 KJV)

It has become glaringly apparent in these “end times” that stagnation in our Father’s Word is increasing. The Word is not being taught in the way it should be; most individuals are “flitting” from church to church, hungering for the Word.

Our Father’s words should be the foundation on which we set our feet upon-and one that elicits a productive barometer to base our lives and behave accordingly. His word is simplistic for those who have an “ear to hear,” and obscure and convoluted to those “who do not have the ear to hear” – or inclination to learn.

In many pulpits throughout the land, we’re seeing an increase of “prosperity preachers” and those who are sorely lacking in their roles as “Pastors.” Their role is to lead the flock-and to bring the lost sheep into the fold. To open the Book and teach by example, to bring forth a continuous wave of understanding, by solidifying the Word, passage by passage, verse by verse. Not two lines from the Bible, while the rest of the sermon is about what “Uncle Charley did on his boat” – or what “Aunt Nancy said at Sunday’s dinner.”

Ultimately, and for our great benefit, it is our own personal responsibility to study God’s Word. It’s the food all believers need and the church fills to capacity when the message becomes all about God and His Word. A church doesn’t need to worry about money when the Word is taught, God provides, and His light shines into our souls.

“Dear Lord, I pray that Your Word fills the hearts of Your Children, throughout the world, may Your Light shine and scatter the darkness into oblivion. Help us understand your Word as we each fulfill our responsibility to read, study, and grow in your Word, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

 

 

DEAR GOD: Thanks for Being at the Helm of our Life~

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 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God,

that giveth to all men liberally,

and upbraideth not;

and it shall be given him.

 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.

For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea

driven with the wind and tossed.

James 1:5-6 (KJV)

 

Self control can be a beneficial characteristic in terms of life and all that entails.  When we are “in control” in can mean many things, such as being on schedule with certain aspects of our “everyday tasks.”  Getting up, eating breakfast, going to work, doing chores, etc., all point to “control” in what we undertake during our day.

But, one thing is clear and important to remember, “God is in control” at ALL times.  What does this mean for us?  It means He is on the throne to this very day, as He was since the beginning of time, and always shall be. And, although we have “free choice” in all that we do…it is God who ultimately is in control at the helm of our ship, and in steering us full throttle unto the path of righteousness.  It is up to us to stay on board and not “jump ship” into stormy seas.   He is always in control.

God allows us to make decisions, but He will guide us, yes,  even giving answers, should be ask for them.  Also, the answers come readily when we listen, and obey His commandments.  Finally, place all of our TRUST in Him, and LOVE Him, fully, totally and unconditionally, with all your heart, soul, mind and might! Amen.

Being an “heir” of Christ in terms of redemption, as He is our rightful redeemer and Savior, is an inherent joy that is beyond comprehension.  But, it is a proud status in which faithful followers can rest in. Ask God and you shall receive, trust in Him…and He will guide your paths, and hold fast to your faith, let it be unwavering no matter the circumstances, and you will glide on tranquil waters.

So, although we are in control, it is our LORD who ultimately is in control of everything.  So, the next time you say, “I’m in control” think about it.  Yes, you are, but ARE YOU?

Pick up His book and learn all about His love and commitment to us.  And, remember this, “We NEED HIM, He doesn’t “need” us.  Yes, He loves us, but He isn’t dependent upon us.  We on the other hand NEED HIM and are dependent on Him.  For He is the Vine, and we are the branches.  Without the Vine, the branches will perish!

 

“Father my Lord and Savior, thank You, for being at the helm, controlling my ship, I give myself to You fully, I pray that others jump onto Your ship, and experience the joy of smooth sailing over stormy seas, I love You, and I thank You, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: My Protection, my Help and my Hope~

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I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.
 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.
 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.
The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Psalm 121:1-8 (KJV)

 

 

Did you ever feel tense about a situation, or circumstance that pounded into your mind, lending way to “fear” or “anxiety?”  I’m sure the answer is a resounding “YES” — because, we are, after all merely flesh…and all that flesh entails.

Yes,  even those of us who are part of the “faith-filled” society are prone to it.

Anxiety, frustration, or becoming tense about something in our lives, that drives the anxiety even higher ,is all part of being human.  But, it is these times in particular, that we need to clamp down on God’s promises, and His love, that is ever present, and lives within us, His Holy Spirit.

We are our own worst enemies when we get “mad” at ourselves for not being the “good Christian” for a way we might have acted, or a foolish thing we might have said.  That’s when we have to realize that the LORD loves us no matter what, and will always be there…even during tenuous times, or times of trials and tribulations.

When we are at our weakest, that is when God is the strongest. (2 Corinthians 13:9 KJV)

When we are at our lowest, that is when God will lift us higher. (Job 5:11 KJV)

When we are walking through darkness, that is when God’s light will be the brightest. (John 1:5 KJV)

It’s so important to never give up on His love, irrespective of our circumstances.  Don’t let the world and it’s ugliness pull you in, pummeling you with self doubt, and denial of God’s presence.  He is all around us, He is in us.  And He never will give up on us.

To those going through a rough patch right now, and who are feeling lost in the wilderness and frustrated, look to the heavens for you help, that’s where your help is.

For those struggling and hurting,  look to the LORD as He will protect you during times of adversity.

For those feeling alone and abandoned, the LORD is with you always. He will never leave you nor forsake you.

And, finally…for those who are looking for the answers to what is happening in your life, or about to happen in your life…meditate on His Word. Let His perfect peace engulf you and surround you inside and out.  Ask for His help in times of woe, and for His perfect peace and wisdom in all you undertake.

Remember, He is our refuge in times of trouble, He is our sanctuary where we can hide, and He is our everything in all things, today, tomorrow and always. 

We can do all things through Christ which gives us strength to do so. (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

Trust in Him, fully, completely. (Proverbs 3:4-8 KJV)

Give yourself to Him freely, and wait on the LORD (Psalm 46:10 KJV)

He promises that He will never ever let you down…

 

“Father, I love You so much, and I acknowledge You are my Hope, my Help, my One and Only that can make all things right, I pray for those in the darkness that they see Your light, Your salvation, and Your love,  My Lord, may I always seek You in all I do, this day and always, in Jesus Christ precious name I pray, Amen…”

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Psalm 62 (KJV)

Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation.

 He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.

How long will ye imagine mischief against a man? ye shall be slain all of you: as a bowing wall shall ye be, and as a tottering fence.

 They only consult to cast him down from his excellency: they delight in lies: they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. Selah.

 My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.

 He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.

In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

 Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.

 Surely men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity.

 Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.
 God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.

 Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.

DEAR GOD: Your Comfort~

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The Lord and His Word is a constant in the life of the faithful. We can be assured that He will guide us and show us the path upon which we should walk, and provide light in the darkness, and comfort, during our trials. He is forever, and never will “fade away” as the grass or flowers.  He will never disappear, as the snow does when it melts.  He will never let us down, as “individuals in our life, might at times.”  He is constant. He is forever. And, He is love, and our source of nourishment, and enjoyment. The following verses are just some which tell of His constant unwavering comfort, in which we can take refuge in, as well as in Him, each and everyday of our life.  Amen.

 

 

Isaiah 40:8

 

Things change…but the WORD of God stands forever!  Amen.

It stands forever.

How comforting is that?

 

40:11-13 

He will carry us through it all.  Lay us upon His bosom.  He is there for us.

How comforting is that?

 

40:21-23

It is He that sits upon the center of the Earth.  He is there always.

How comforting is that?

 

40:29-31

Strength to the weary, and to the tired.  But, wait for the LORD and gain strength.

How comforting is that?

 

As it states, the grass withers, the flower fades, but the WORD of the LORD lasts forever.

How comforting is that?

 

 

John 14:16

I will ask the Father and He will give you another helper… a Comforter…the Holy Spirit.

How comforting is that?

 

 

“Father thank You for comforting us each and every moment of our life, here and now, and for all Eternity, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: Breathe Your Breath of Life~

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But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (Romans 8:9)

Jesus tells us in John 10:10—The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. Christians need to latch onto His words and the true meaning of His statement. He wants to give us peace and joy that extends from His promise and experience it fully. Most Christians understand the concept on “paper” but in reality don’t live the promises of Christ. When we attach and align ourselves with Christ—comfort, peace, security and joy overflows.

 

When the Holy Spirit—also known as the Spirit of Christ—came to live with us He was offering us His continual presence and salvation. The Spirit comes to manifest the presence of Christ, if we accept Him. We develop a relationship with Him that grows in depth on every level and every aspect concerning our lives.

 

When we let Jesus work through us, and let Him in and become dependent on Him, we will begin to live a purposeful life according to His will. His works will begin to assimilate into our daily life, and the temporal findings of routines become visual tangible promises of our ultimate goal, His kingdom, and eternity.

 

The more pronounced our belief and submission to Christ, the more likely we are to understand the concept and apply it into practice by being “pro-active” Christians.

 

“Lord Help your children embrace the Spirit within and go forth for Your glory, in Jesus name. Amen.”