DEAR GOD: You Are Our Sanctuary At All times~

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  “My people will live in safety, quietly at home. They will be at rest.”
Isaiah 32:18

 This verse is a balm for the soul—especially for those, like you, who are seeking a home not just of walls and windows, but of sacred quiet and spiritual anchoring. Isaiah speaks of a divine promise: not just safety, but quiet safety. Not just shelter, but rest. It’s a vision of peace that transcends noise, turnover, and uncertainty. For every map you’ve drawn, every area of life concerning decisions, or faced incomparable odds, and things in general you’ve considered, this verse affirms that God sees your longing—and has prepared a place where your spirit can truly exhale.

 

🙏 

“LORD, you are the keeper of sacred quiet and the giver of true rest. As we walk through this season of discernment, wrap us in your peace. Let every step toward sanctuary be guided by your wisdom and softened by your Presence. May our home—present or future—be a place where heavenly hosts of angels linger, where grief is comforted, and where joy is gently restored.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Your Love Found Us First~

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💛   The First Love That Found Us

✨ Before we ever reached for God, He reached for us. Before we ever whispered a prayer, He had already spoken our name. The verse from 1 John 4:19 is not merely a theological statement—it is a tender unveiling of divine initiative. “We love him, because he first loved us.” These words are the heartbeat of grace.

God’s love is not reactive. It is not earned, provoked, or bargained for. It is original, initiating, and eternal. In a world that often teaches us to perform for affection, this truth stands in holy contrast: we are loved first. Not when we are perfect. Not when we are ready. Not when we are useful. But first.

This “first love” is the foundation of our faith. It is the reason we can respond with love, worship, and obedience—not out of fear or obligation, but out of awe. When we realize that God’s love preceded our existence, our failures, and our repentance, we begin to live differently. We stop striving and start abiding.

This love is not abstract. It was embodied in Christ, who came while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8). It was poured out in blood, sealed in resurrection, and offered freely. It is the love that waits for the prodigal, weeps with the broken, and walks with the weary. It is the love that calls us beloved even when we feel unworthy.

To love Him back is not a transaction—it is a response. A response to being known, chosen, and pursued. And even our response is empowered by His Spirit. We love because He loved. We forgive because He forgave. We serve because He served. Everything begins with Him.

In seasons of doubt, grief, or transition, this truth anchors us. When we feel distant, His love remains near. When we feel unlovable, His love remains unchanged. When we feel lost, His love remains seeking.

Let this be our testimony: not that we found God, but that He found us first. Not that we earned His love, but that He gave it freely. Not that we are strong, but that His love strengthens us.

📚 Supporting Scriptures:

  • Romans 5:8 — “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
  • John 15:16 — “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you…”
  • Ephesians 2:4-5 — “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us…”
  • Deuteronomy 7:7-8 — “The Lord did not set his love upon you… because ye were more in number… but because the Lord loved you…”
  • Psalm 139:13-16 — “Thou hast possessed my reins… I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”
  • Isaiah 43:1 — “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

🪞 Reflective Questions:

  1. When did you first realize that God loved you before you ever loved Him?
  2. How does knowing you are loved first change the way you approach prayer, worship, or service?
  3. Are there areas in your life where you still feel you must “earn” God’s love?
  4. What would it look like to rest in His initiating love today?
  5. How can you reflect this “first love” to others who feel forgotten or unworthy?

🙏 Closing Prayer:

“LORD- thank You for loving us first. Before we knew You, before we sought You, before we could even respond—You loved. Let Your love be our anchor, our identity, and our song. Teach us to rest in it, reflect it, and respond with hearts full of gratitude. May we never forget that our love for You is only possible because You loved us first. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Live By Your Wisdom From Above~

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Wisdom from Above - New Covenant Assembly Sermon 01-29-2023

 

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” — Proverbs 4:7 

🌿 Loving God and Living by Wisdom from Above

In a world that often feels loud, fast, and uncertain, the quiet strength of wisdom from above becomes our compass. It is not merely cleverness or worldly strategy—it is the divine insight that flows from reverence, humility, and love for God. To love God is to seek His heart, and in seeking His heart, we receive His wisdom: pure, peaceable, gentle, and full of mercy.

This wisdom helps us navigate everyday choices with grace. It teaches us when to speak and when to be still. It shows us how to care for others without losing ourselves. It anchors us when grief swells and guides us when decisions feel heavy. Wisdom from above is not just for mountaintop moments—it is for the kitchen, the town hall, the quiet drive, the grocery aisle, and the sacred corridors of our homes.

Loving God means doing our best not to impress, but to align. It means asking, “Lord, what would You have me do?” and trusting that even in our smallest efforts—feeding a loved one, writing a letter, choosing peace over pride—He is present. His wisdom sanctifies the ordinary.

When we love God, we begin to see that doing our best is not about perfection. It’s about surrender. It’s about letting His wisdom shape our thoughts, our routines, our advocacy, and our care. It’s about trusting that He sees the whole map, even when we only see the next step.

📖 Supporting Scripture

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” — James 3:17 

🙏 Prayer for Wisdom and Love

“LORD- You are the source of all true wisdom. In a world that often confuses noise for knowledge, help us to seek Your voice above all. Teach us to love You not just in word, but in action—in the way we care, speak, and choose. Let Your wisdom guide our steps, soften our hearts, and strengthen our resolve. May we be gentle stewards of the homes You entrust to us, faithful in our routines, and courageous in our advocacy. Let Your peace reign in our decisions, and Your mercy flow through our hands. We do not ask for ease, but for clarity. We do not ask for perfection, but for Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Shelter

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“The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” — Jeremiah 31:3 (KJV)

  Drawn by Everlasting Love: The Shelter of Divine Compassion

 In Jeremiah 31:3, we encounter one of the most tender declarations in all of Scripture: God’s love is not fleeting or conditional—it is everlasting. This verse reminds us that divine protection is not merely about physical safety, but about being drawn into a relationship of mercy, grace, and belonging.

God’s love is not earned. It is not revoked when we falter. It is a shelter, a balm, and a calling. The phrase “with lovingkindness have I drawn thee” evokes the image of a gentle shepherd, guiding us not with force, but with compassion.

This truth echoes throughout Scripture:

  • Psalm 91:4 (KJV) — “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”
  • Romans 8:38–39 (KJV) — “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life… shall be able to separate us from the love of God.”

But how does this Divine love translate into our world today?

  Christianity, at its core, is a call to mirror God’s love. Humanitarianism—feeding the hungry, sheltering the displaced, advocating for justice—is not separate from faith; it is its embodiment. When we serve others, we become vessels of the same lovingkindness that drew us.

Yet, in a world fractured by war, inequality, and environmental grief, the challenge is not just to act, but to act with love. Not performative charity, but sacrificial compassion. Not pity, but solidarity.

Reflect on these questions:

  • In what ways am I embodying God’s unconditional love to those around me?
  • Do I see humanitarian work as sacred, as part of my spiritual calling?
  • How can I protect others—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually?

Let us remember: the same love that shelters us calls us to be shelter for others.

“LORD my Everlasting Father, You have drawn me with cords of kindness and covered me with grace. Let Your love be my refuge and my compass. Teach me to see others through Your eyes—to protect, to serve, to love without condition. In a world aching for mercy, let me be a bearer of Yours.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

💬

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Keeper of Light, Victor Over Darkness~

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The Light of Christ in a World of Darkness

My heart and spirit are highly grieved by the state of affairs in this world today.  My soul is crying and my heart aches from this suffocating evil that is swirling around today. It is an amass of sadness. It is horrifying and it is beyond human comprehension. It is traumatic and it can be overwhelming even to the most faithful. But it is our faith – that keeps us going – through it all.

  Jesus warned us – Matthew 10:15:

“Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.”

Jesus said this to His disciples as He sent them out—warning that towns rejecting the Gospel would face a harsher judgment than even Sodom and Gomorrah. There are so many who are “rejecting” the gospel openly and defiantly.  Those who have no regard for humanity, and who cheer in the face of egregious wrongs, and violent killings and senseless monstrosities of action.

Luke 17:28–30

“It was the same in the days of Lot: People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed.”

Jesus compares the end times to the days of Noah and Lot—times of worldly distraction, moral decay, and sudden judgment, with prolific non feeling and indifference to all of their brothers and sisters – and His creatures as well.

What Mirrors These Warnings Today?

We see echoes of these warnings in our world now:

  • Moral confusion and inversion—where what is evil is called good, and what is good is mocked or silenced.
  • Rampant materialism and distraction—just as in the days of Lot, people are “planting and building,” yet spiritually asleep.
  • Rejection of truth—even in places where the Gospel is freely preached, hearts grow cold, and miracles are dismissed.
  • Violence, division, and desecration of sacred things—from the land to the womb to the sanctuary.
  • Open and careless destruction of human beings – and laughing and mocking in the aftermath of such evil perversion.

Jesus is victorious. He reigns now, not just in heaven, but over every shadow that tries to rise. No matter how dark the world may seem—how twisted, how desecrated, how wearying—His light is not dimmed. His promises are not broken. His return is not delayed by chaos. It is drawing near.

The days may echo Sodom, the nights may tremble with uncertainty, but we are not abandoned. We are the remnant, the watchful, the faithful. And we hold fast to this grain of hope:

“Behold, I am making all things new.” — Revelation 21:5 “Your reward will be great in heaven.” — Luke 6:23 “He who endures to the end will be saved.” — Matthew 24:13

One day, every injustice will be overturned. Every tear will be wiped away. Every act of stewardship—every prayer over the world, every defense of sacred land, every quiet obedience—will be remembered and rewarded.

So, we wait, not in despair, but in Holy expectation. Because Jesus reigns. Because He is coming. Because the victory is already won!

“LORD – We look to You knowing You are in control and that You defeated death, and You reign victorious now and always, may we cling to You and follow You through all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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The Lord Delights in You!

Micah 7:18 (KJV)
Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.

“He Delights in Mercy”

 This verse from Micah is a gentle thunder—declaring the Lord’s love not as a distant concept, but as a living, breathing mercy that chooses compassion over wrath. It begins with awe: “Who is a God like unto thee?”—a rhetorical cry that echoes through the ages. There is none like Him. No one forgives as He does. No one holds back judgment with such grace. No one delights in mercy the way our Lord does.

Micah speaks to a remnant—a people who have faltered, wandered, and wear the dust of their own failures. And yet, the Lord does not abandon them. He passes by transgression, not because He ignores sin, but because He chooses to cover it with love. His anger is not eternal; His mercy is.

To say that God delights in mercy is to say that it brings Him joy to forgive, to restore, to heal. Mercy is not a reluctant concession—it is His pleasure. His love is not earned; it is poured out. This is the heartbeat of the Gospel, even in the Old Testament: a God who bends low to lift us up.

Reflective Questions

  1. When have you felt the Lord “pass by” your transgression with mercy instead of judgment?
  2. Do you believe He delights in showing you compassion—not just tolerates it?
  3. What would change in your life if you truly rested in His mercy?
  4. How can you reflect His mercy to others, especially those who’ve wounded you?

Supportive Scriptures

  • Psalm 103:8 – The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
  • Lamentations 3:22–23 – It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed… they are new every morning.
  • Isaiah 55:7 – Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will have mercy upon him.
  • Luke 15:20 – But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him… and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
  • Ephesians 2:4–5 – But God, who is rich in mercy… hath quickened us together with Christ.

Prayer of Mercy and Restoration

Lord, You are not like us. You do not hold grudges. You do not delight in punishment. You delight in mercy. You see our brokenness and still call us beloved. You pass over our failures and draw us near. Teach us to rest in Your compassion, to trust Your forgiveness, and to reflect Your love to others. May Your mercy be our rhythm, our refuge, and our reason to rise again.

 

DEAR GOD: We Delight In Your Law & Word~

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But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.  -Psalm 1:2 

 

This verse describes King David’s lament and frustration over the widespread deceit, flatter, arrogance of wicked evil people in society, contrasting their corrupt words with the pure trustworthy words of God. 

This verse lets us see and “hear” David crying out to His LORD – for intervention, against those who are in opposition to both him and to God. He seems to be delighting in the fact that “it’s a blessing for those who reflect, meditate and ingest” the Word daily- then reflect and infuse the Word into all aspects of life.  And that God promises to bless those who inherently align with Him and His word, irrespective of circumstances or any given scenario.

When we seek the LORD in all we do, He will intervene on our behalf and help us through whatever we are facing. When we trust in His power realizing that He is in control – we are able to fasten our faith and harness power through Him and Him alone.  When we don’t seek Him or take any kind of interest in His Word – we are left in a barren cold land that is subject to darkness and vast evil.

God’s love and His umbrella of protection is a shield to those seeking Him, loving Him, and following His commandments. He is the Rock, He is the foundation of our footsteps, and the Master of our lives.

Even in this broken and deceptive world, where cruelty and mocking of Christians seems to be the norm, we have hope and are stable in His love – because God’s promise remains true and everlasting. It doesn’t break, mold, or disappear.  

Believe in God, trust the purity and perfection of Him and His Word, especially His promises to the vulnerable.  Even when the world is stinking with evil and displays repulsive actions, God is still in control, and His will WILL ultimately prevail.

After all, Jesus Christ swallowed up death – and defeated it – and He reigns victorious – so don’t despair, please have faith.  Just know and believe – no matter how it seems, or what is happening all around – God is in CONTROL And Christ has the victory.

Because Greater is He in you than the one in the world!  (1 John 4:4)

“LORD thank You for Your unmerited grace and love, for Your protection, for Your arms that are open wide, and for Your promises that never fade, I am Yours, today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Watching the Blossoms We Know~

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 “Moreover the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, I see a rod of an almond tree. Then said the Lord unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.” — Jeremiah 1:11–12

  

“The Secret of the Almond Tree”

 This quiet moment in Jeremiah’s calling holds a rich, symbolic beauty. The almond tree, known in Hebrew as shaqed, shares its root with the word “watchful.” It was the first tree to awaken after winter, blooming early while others still slept. In this vision, God uses the almond branch to affirm His vigilance—He is awake, alert, and actively watching over His promises.

The image is subtle but profound: a rod of almond, not dramatic or thunderous, but quietly blooming with assurance. It reminds us that divine timing is never passive. Even when life feels dormant or uncertain, God is hastening His word—tending it, guarding it, preparing it to blossom. The almond branch is a sacred whisper: “I see. I act. I fulfill.”

“LORD -In the quiet places where hope feels delayed, let Your almond blossoms bloom. Teach us to trust Your watchfulness, even when answers seem slow or hidden. Awaken our hearts to Your timing, Your presence, and Your promise. May we see what You show us and believe that You are hastening Your word to perform it. Let Your faithfulness be our peace.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: May We Gain Patience Through Your Mercy~

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Patience is Grace Fueled by Love

“That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.” -Titus 2:2

 

Anchored Elders: A Call to Steadfast Grace”

Titus 2:2 offers a timeless blueprint for elderhood—not just in age, but in spiritual maturity. In today’s world, where youth is often idolized and aging can feel invisible, this verse reclaims the dignity of seasoned individuals as pillars of wisdom, restraint, and enduring faith. It calls older individuals to be sober—not just free from intoxication, but clear-minded and discerning. Grave—not joyless but deeply rooted in reverence. Temperate—not rigid, but balanced. And above all, sound in faith, love, and patience.

In our modern communities—whether church, family, or neighborhood—this verse reminds us that elderhood is not retirement from spiritual responsibility. It’s a sacred charge to model integrity, compassion, and endurance. These individuals become living testimonies of grace under pressure, love without condition, and faith that has weathered storms.

🙏 Prayer

“LORD– We thank You for the elders among us—those whose lives echo Your faithfulness. Strengthen them to walk in sobriety, dignity, and self-control. Let their faith be unwavering, their love expansive, and their patience enduring. May they be anchors in our communities, guiding us with wisdom and grace. Help us honor their legacy and learn from their quiet strength. And for those stepping into elderhood, may they embrace this calling with joy, humility, and holy purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Compassion~

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Jesus Wept - Christian Genesis - Daily Devotional

 

  John 11:35 (KJV) –
“Jesus wept.”

💧 The Tears of God: Compassion in Its Purest Form

Two words. One eternal truth. “Jesus wept.” In this moment, the Son of God—who holds power over death—stood beside grieving friends and let His tears fall. Not because He lacked strength, but because He possessed perfect love. Jesus knew He would raise Lazarus, yet He chose to enter the sorrow of others. His tears were not weakness—they were divine empathy.

This is the heart of our Savior: not distant, not indifferent, but deeply moved by human pain. He weeps with us. He walks with us. He understands our grief, our confusion, our longing. And in His compassion, He shows us how to live.

To follow Jesus is to carry this same heart. A heart that pauses for others. That listens. That weeps. That lifts. Whether in joy or sorrow, we are called to reflect His love—not just in words, but in presence. In every act of kindness, every moment of understanding, we echo the tears of Christ.

Supportive Scriptures (KJV)

  • Hebrews 4:15 — “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities…”
  • Psalm 34:18 — “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart…”
  • Romans 12:15 — “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.”
  • Matthew 5:7 — “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

Reflective Question

When was the last time I allowed myself to feel deeply for someone else—not to fix, but simply to be present?

🙏 Prayer

“LORD-Thank You for showing us that compassion is holy. That tears are sacred. That love is not distant, but near. Help us to carry Your heart into every moment—to weep with those who weep, to rejoice with those who rejoice, and to walk gently with those in pain. May we never be too busy to care, too proud to feel, or too hardened to love. Shape us into vessels of Your mercy and let our lives reflect the tenderness of Your tears. In Jesus name, Amen.”