DEAR GOD: Search My Heart O’ LORD~

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Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts ...

Psalm 139:23-24 (NLT):

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

The Heart’s Deepest Cry: A Life Guided by God’s Searchlight

In Psalm 139, David presents a raw and vulnerable invitation to God—an open request for divine inspection, transformation, and guidance. It is not a passive acknowledgment of God’s omniscience, but an intentional surrender: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” This plea is profound because it recognizes that the human heart can be deceitful, hidden even from oneself (Jeremiah 17:9). David does not ask God to merely glance at his heart but to search it, meaning to thoroughly investigate, to lay bare every hidden motive, every buried fear, every flaw that even David himself may not perceive.

The Weight of Anxious Thoughts

David’s request includes an earnest plea to examine his anxious thoughts. Anxiety—often woven into the fabric of human existence—can distort perception, influence decisions, and weigh down the spirit. By asking God to test his thoughts, David acknowledges that not all fears are grounded in truth; some are born of doubt, insecurity, or human frailty. He does not seek to justify his anxieties but rather invites the refining fire of God’s wisdom to reveal what is rooted in faith and what is born of unbelief. It is a courageous act to lay one’s worries before God with the intent of having them exposed, sifted, and transformed into steadfast trust.

A Call to Holiness

David continues with a plea: “Point out anything in me that offends you.” This speaks to the surrender of self-will and personal perceptions of righteousness. It is easy to overlook the subtleties of sin—the attitudes, motivations, and compromises that quietly take residence within the heart. David does not assume his own perfection; instead, he longs for God’s correction, desiring to remove every offense that might grieve the Lord. This echoes the humility of Psalm 51: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10).

What makes this request remarkable is its posture: David is not seeking justification for his actions; he is asking for divine revelation of where he needs change. He does not plead for God to overlook his faults but instead asks that they be exposed and corrected. This demonstrates a hunger for holiness, a longing to align his life with God’s will, and a willingness to be transformed, even if the process is painful.

The Path of Everlasting Life

David’s ultimate request is for divine direction—”lead me along the path of everlasting life.” It is not enough for the hidden sins to be revealed; David desires movement forward. The exposure of sin without transformation leads to despair, but exposure paired with God’s leadership brings renewal and hope. The path of everlasting life is not merely a promise of heaven, but a present reality—a life lived in surrender and obedience that reflects the heart of God.

The words of this psalm challenge the believer to mirror David’s courage—to pray with the same vulnerability, inviting God to search, expose, and lead. It is a call to honesty before God, a refusal to hide behind self-justification, and a plea for transformation that leads to true righteousness.

A Prayer for Surrender

Heavenly Father, I come before You with an open heart, just as David did. Search me, Lord, and know my deepest thoughts. Reveal to me anything that does not align with Your truth, any hidden motives or fears that cloud my spirit. Test my anxious thoughts, Lord, and replace uncertainty with unwavering trust in You.

Point out anything in me that grieves Your heart. Do not let me be deceived by my own assumptions of righteousness but refine me in Your truth. Make me humble, willing to be shaped by Your hands, ready to embrace the correction of Your Spirit.

Lead me, O God, in the path of everlasting life. Show me the way that brings honor to You and guide my steps toward a life that reflects Your holiness. May my heart always be soft toward Your direction, my spirit willing to surrender to Your will.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: You Are Everlasting To Everlasting –

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Gods Mercy And Grace

“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” -Psalm 90:2-4

 

 

The Eternal God: Before Time, Beyond Time

Psalm 90:2:4- speaks to the unfathomable nature of God’s existence—before the mountains rose, before the earth itself took form, He was. He is not bound by time, nor does His power diminish. From everlasting to everlasting, He is God. This truth is a foundation upon which faith finds its strongest footing, reminding us that before our worries began, before our struggles arose, before even our sins existed God was already present, already sovereign, already full of mercy.

The world changes. Mountains erode, seas rise and fall, generations come and go. But God remains, untouched by the passing of years, unwavering in His dominion.

Isaiah 40:8 echoes this truth: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” His Presence is not momentary or shifting—it is eternal, firm, and faithful.

This verse calls us to reflect deeply: If God existed before creation, holding time in His hands, how could any problem we face be beyond His wisdom? How could any burden outweigh His ability to sustain us? It reassures us that no failure, no sorrow, no fleeting trouble can alter the eternal goodness of His love.

Reflective Questions:

  • Do I live with trust in God’s eternal presence, or do I allow temporary struggles to shake my faith?
  • How can I honor His timeless nature in my daily walk, recognizing that His plans extend far beyond my own?
  • Am I grounding my heart in what is eternal, or am I clinging too tightly to what is passing away?

Moral Thoughts & Obedience:

Recognizing God’s eternal nature calls us to an obedient heart—one that worships not in fear of what is fleeting but in faith of what endures. We are called not just to believe, but to rest in the promise that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). That means submitting to Him fully, acknowledging that He sees beyond what we can grasp and trusting His guidance even when the path seems unclear.

 “LORD, You are from everlasting to everlasting—unchanging, unshaken, eternally faithful. Before the mountains rose, before the stars were placed in the sky, before time itself unfurled—You were. We bow in awe before Your majesty, Your holiness that spans beyond our understanding. Teach us to trust You as the Author of eternity, surrendering our fleeting worries to Your unchanging love. May our obedience stem not from fear but from deep reverence, knowing Your ways are higher, Your promises secure, and Your mercy infinite. Hold us in Your timeless grace and guide our steps to honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Meditative Question for the Day:

How does knowing that God existed before all things deepen my trust in His plan for my life?

DEAR GOD: I Seek You Desperately – Earnestly- Fully-Completely~

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What Does it Mean to Truly Seek God?

 

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” —Matthew 6:6

 

Seeking the Father in Secret

There is a sacred beauty in withdrawing from the noise of life to sit alone with the Lord. In the quiet, away from distractions, the heart finds clarity, and the soul is refreshed. Jesus Himself taught the importance of private communion with the Father, reminding us that prayer is not about performance but about intimacy.

When the burdens of life weigh heavy, stepping into that secret place—where only He sees—brings peace beyond understanding. It is there, in the stillness, that His Presence calms the restless heart and fills it with assurance.

It is knowing that He is living inside of me – and His hands guiding me that brings a self-assurance that no matter what is going on -it’s going to be okay, as we take His hand, we will be – Okay!

  “Father, I come before You in the quiet, seeking Your Presence. In the secret place, I lay down my worries and open my heart to You. Refresh my spirit, calm my anxious thoughts, and remind me that You are near. May my time with You strengthen my faith and deepen my trust. Thank You for always seeing me, always hearing me, and always loving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Presence & Promises~

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[Genesis 09] God's Promises

 

 

The Presence and Promises of Christ

Before time began, His word was sure, The Alpha, the Omega, steadfast and pure. By His hands, the heavens spread wide, Through His breath, the stars took stride.

The mountains bow, the oceans roar, Yet He calls my name—forevermore. Not distant nor silent, never untrue, His presence abides, deep and new.

When shadows fall and hope grows dim, He whispers, “Be still, come rest in Him.” The weary find shelter, the lost find light, For He has conquered darkest night.

“Fear not, for I am with you,” He proclaims, “Be not dismayed, I call you by name.” (Isaiah 41:10) No tear unseen, no burden alone, His mercy flows from Heaven’s throne.

His footsteps grace the storm-tossed seas, His voice commands the raging breeze. No wave too wild, no wind too strong, For in His hands, we still belong.

“My peace I leave you, My peace I give,” (John 14:27) A love unshaken, the grace to live. Not as the world—uncertain, afraid, But steadfast, eternal, never swayed.

He promised life, and life anew, A dwelling place beyond the blue. “I go to prepare a place for you,” (John 14:2) A kingdom bright, a promise true.

The cross stood tall, the sky grew black, Yet love poured forth; He held nothing back. Three days of silence, sorrow, grief, Then sunrise declared eternal relief.

Death undone, the grave unsealed, By His wounds, the broken healed. “I am the resurrection, the life,” (John 11:25) His victory reigns, His truth is bright.

Oh, wondrous Savior, mighty Friend, Your love will never fade nor end. Through valley deep and mountain high, You lead me forth, You stand nearby.

 “LORD -You are my refuge and my strength, the promise that never fades. Thank You for walking with me through every trial, for being the light that guides my path. May Your presence be my peace, and Your promises my foundation. Help me to trust in You fully, to stand firm in Your truth, and to embrace the love You so freely give. Keep my heart anchored in You, that I may walk in faith until the day I stand before You in glory. In Your Son’s Holy name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Guard My Tongue & Season My Words~

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"Guard Your Mouth" | Guarded | Pastor Bobby Chandler - YouTube

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. — Proverbs 15:1

Words carry weight. They build bridges or burn them, soothe souls or wound hearts. Proverbs 15:1 teaches a simple yet profound truth—how we respond to conflict determines its outcome. A gentle, measured response has the power to defuse anger, redirect hostility, and promote peace, while harsh words escalate disputes, deepening wounds and fueling division.

Speaking with the Wisdom of God

The Word of God consistently reinforces the importance of tempering speech with wisdom and grace.

  • Proverbs 16:24 — “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.”
  • James 1:19 — “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
  • Colossians 4:6 — “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”

These verses remind us that gracious speech is not weakness, but strength—a reflection of the wisdom that comes from God.

Examples from Scripture and Daily Life

Consider the example of Abigail in 1 Samuel 25. When faced with the reckless wrath of Nabal, she responded with wisdom, humility, and gentleness, preventing unnecessary bloodshed. Her soft answer turned away David’s anger, revealing the power of calm, Spirit-led intervention.

In our own lives, a kind response to a rude cashier, a patient word to a frustrated family member, or a loving approach to someone acting unjustly can shift the entire atmosphere. Though it is not always easy, responding with grace is a choice that honors God.

Living in the Light of His Word

Applying Proverbs 15:1 daily requires intentional surrender to God’s guidance. The tongue is a mighty force, capable of shaping relationships, influencing emotions, and directing our paths. As followers of Christ, we must ask:

  1. Do my words reflect the heart of God?
  2. Am I responding to offense with patience and wisdom?
  3. Is my speech seasoned with grace, even in difficult conversations?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, teach us to speak with kindness, wisdom, and restraint. May our words bring healing, not harm; peace, not contention. Help us to listen before we speak, and to reflect Your love even in moments of frustration. Let our tongues glorify You and draw others nearer to Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

DEAR GOD: We’re Looking Forward To Your Return~

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So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” -Hebrews 9:28

 

The Promise of Redemption: A Reflection on Hebrews 9:28

The verse from Hebrews 9:28 stands as a breathtaking declaration of Christ’s purpose, sacrifice, and ultimate return—a promise etched in eternity, carrying the full weight of divine love and redemption. It is a verse that speaks both to the past and the future, a bridge between what Christ has already done and what He will do when He appears again.

A Sacrifice Once Offered, Sufficient for Eternity

At the heart of the Christian faith is the undeniable truth that Jesus Christ bore the sins of many. This was not a temporary offering, nor was it one among many failed attempts to reconcile humanity to God. It was the singular, perfect sacrifice—flawless, complete, and eternally sufficient. Unlike the Old Testament system, where priests would repeatedly offer sacrifices for sins year after year, Jesus entered once into the holy place, securing eternal redemption for us through His own blood.

The implications of this cannot be overstated. It means that salvation is not dependent upon human striving or repeated acts of penance, but upon Christ’s finished work on the cross. There is no greater assurance than knowing that the price for sin has already been paid in full.

Looking for His Return: A Call to Faith and Expectation

The second part of the verse speaks directly to those “who look for Him.” This simple phrase challenges and examines the heart of every believer. Do we wait expectantly? Do we long for His return, living each day in anticipation of that moment when we will behold Him in glory?

To “look for Him” means more than passive belief; it means preparing our hearts, surrendering our lives, and living with unwavering hope. It is the eager expectation of a child awaiting the arrival of their beloved Father. It is the daily hunger for righteousness, the pursuit of holiness, and the refusal to be entangled by the fleeting pleasures of this world.

And what does His return promise? Salvation without sin. When Christ returns, He will not come as the suffering servant, carrying our burdens to the cross—He will come in glory, as King and Judge, free from the stain of sin, and bring eternal salvation to those who have waited for Him.

Living in Light of This Promise

The reality of Christ’s return invites profound introspection. How should a believer live, knowing that the King will appear again? What does this mean in the modern world, where distractions are endless, and faith is often challenged?

It means living with eyes fixed on eternity—choosing faith over fear, righteousness over indulgence, love over division. It means cherishing the mercy we have received, extending grace to others, and remembering that every act of kindness reflects the love of Christ. It means rejecting the despair of the world and embracing the hope that is found in Him alone.

It is easy to become weary. The world is filled with suffering, injustice, and uncertainty. But Hebrews 9:28 is a reminder that the story does not end here. Christ will return, and with Him, He will bring the final fulfillment of His promise—the completion of salvation, unmarred by sin, untainted by brokenness, radiant in its perfection.

Closing Prayer

 “LORD-Thank You for bearing the weight of our sins and securing eternal salvation through Your sacrifice. Help us to live each day with expectant hearts, longing for Your return. May our lives reflect Your love, our faith remain unwavering, and our hope never fade. Strengthen us in times of weariness and remind us that our redemption is sealed in You forever. We eagerly await the day when we shall see You in glory. In Jesus precious name, Amen.”

A Question to Ponder

How does living in anticipation of Christ’s return shape the way you love, serve, and walk in faith today?

DEAR GOD: Your Presence & Love Sustains Us All~

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Revelation 21:2-3 (NKJV)

“Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.’”

The Eternal Dwelling of God Among His People

This passage is a declaration of hope, a vision of completion, and a fulfillment of God’s promise that He would one day dwell among His people fully and eternally. John, witnessing this moment, describes New Jerusalem descending from heaven, radiant as a bride adorned for her husband, a scene of absolute beauty and preparation. This is not just the establishment of a heavenly city, but the arrival of God’s presence in its most complete and unrestricted form.

From the beginning, God has longed to be near His creation. In the Old Testament, His Presence was seen in the tabernacle, a structure built by Israel where He dwelled in a limited way. It was a place of meeting but not of full unity. Later, the temple stood as a physical representation of His dwelling, but still, access was restricted. Even when Jesus walked on earth, He was God in flesh, dwelling among men, yet only temporarily.

This passage shows the fulfillment of God’s desire. No longer separated, no longer distant, He comes to live fully among His redeemed people. The barriers are gone, the longing is satisfied, and His presence is forever.

What This Means for Christians Today

While the full reality of New Jerusalem is yet to come, the truth of God’s dwelling is already alive in the hearts of believers.

God is not waiting for eternity to be with His people. He dwells among them now through His Holy Spirit. The temple, once made of stone, has become the believer’s own body, a place where He resides. Scripture confirms this truth

Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16

Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27

Every prayer, every moment of faith, is an interaction with a God who is near, not distant. He is present in suffering, joy, doubt, and victory.

This passage also reminds believers that no matter how difficult the present world may seem, it is not the final chapter.

God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. Revelation 21:4

And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life. 1 John 2:25

This promise shapes how a believer faces life’s trials. Knowing that His presence will one day be fully revealed, we can endure with hope.

Lastly, it is a call to live in expectation. If God prepares a dwelling place, then believers must prepare themselves to meet Him. The bride does not wait passively, but she adorns herself with readiness, purity, and devotion.

Be holy, for I am holy 1 Peter 1:16

Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8

Reflective Questions

How does knowing that God dwells within me shape my daily life Am I preparing my heart as a bride prepares for her wedding day Do I live in the certainty of God’s presence, or do I hold onto fear How does this promise change the way I endure suffering

Prayer

“Father, Your Presence is a gift beyond measure. You have always desired to dwell among Your people, and Your promise is unfolding even now. Help me to live in expectation, preparing my heart as a bride adorned for her husband. Let me feel Your nearness, know Your love, and trust in Your eternal plan. Until the day I stand before You in fullness, let me remain faithful. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Only You Can Make Us Whole Again~

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Understand the Signs God is Molding You – Love In Bible

And shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: “Even so I will break this people and this city, as one breaks a potter’s vessel, which cannot be made whole again; and they shall bury them in Tophet till there is no place to bury. — Jeremiah 19:11 (NKJV)

 

A World Shattered: Then and Now

The imagery of a broken potter’s vessel in Jeremiah 19:11 is striking—final, irreversible, and deeply symbolic. In the ancient world, pottery was essential for daily life, used for storing water, grain, and oil. A shattered vessel was beyond repair, its fragments scattered, its purpose lost.

Jeremiah, known as the “weeping prophet,” spoke these words as a warning to Judah, whose people had turned away from God, embracing idolatry and injustice. The Lord, through Jeremiah, declared that their rebellion would lead to destruction—just as a potter’s vessel, once broken, could not be restored.

Fast forward to today, and the world mirrors this prophecy in many ways. Societies crumble under the weight of corruption, moral decay, and spiritual apathy. Nations once built on faith and righteousness now wrestle with division, greed, and a loss of identity. The potter’s vessel—once whole, once purposeful—now lies in fragments.

Yet, even in brokenness, there is hope. While the shattered vessel of Judah faced judgment, the broader biblical narrative reveals a God of restoration. Though a pot may be broken beyond human repair, the divine Potter can create something new from the dust.

Supporting Scriptures: The Potter’s Hands

  • Isaiah 64:8 (NKJV) – “But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.”
  • Romans 9:21 (NKJV) – “Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?”
  • 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NKJV) – “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.”

These verses remind us that while humanity may falter, God remains sovereign. He shapes, refines, and restores. Even when we feel shattered, His hands are capable of molding us anew.

Reflective Questions for Meditation

  1. In what ways do you see brokenness in today’s world, and how does Jeremiah’s prophecy resonate with modern society?
  2. Have there been moments in your life where you felt like a shattered vessel? How did God bring restoration?
  3. What does it mean to be clay in the hands of the Potter? How can surrendering to God’s shaping bring renewal?
  4. How can we, as believers, be vessels of honor in a world that often feels fractured?
  5. What steps can we take to ensure that our faith remains strong, even in times of uncertainty?

 “LORD –You are the Potter, and we are the clay. In moments of brokenness, remind us that Your hands are strong enough to restore. When the world feels shattered, let us find refuge in Your presence. Mold us into vessels of honor, filled with Your truth and love. May we reflect Your light in a world that desperately needs healing. LORD teach us to trust in Your craftsmanship, knowing that even in our weakness, Your strength is made perfect. Let our lives be a testimony of renewal, shaped by Your grace and guided by Your wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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The Importance of Trusting God in Difficult Times - Lay Cistercians

“In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.” -Psalm 56:4

 

 

Trusting God Amidst the Storm

Psalm 56:4 declares a powerful truth—placing our trust in God silences the fear of man. This verse is a proclamation of unwavering faith, a cry of absolute reliance on the Lord despite earthly threats and uncertainties. It is a reminder that no matter how dark this world becomes, no matter how corruption and wickedness seem to prevail, God’s Word is unshaken. The psalmist, David, spoke these words during a time of great distress when he was pursued by enemies who sought his destruction. Yet instead of crumbling in fear, he lifted his eyes to heaven and declared that he would not fear what man could do to him.

The Rotten World We Face

This world is riddled with deceit, greed, violence, and opposition to truth. Nations rage against righteousness, morality is discarded in favor of fleeting pleasures, and those who stand for God’s Word face mockery and persecution. We see injustice thriving, evil being praised, and corruption spreading like disease. The enemy works through systems of power, through ideologies designed to twist truth, through voices that tempt people away from God’s path. Temptations abound, dragging souls into rebellion against their Creator. The flesh, with all its weaknesses, fears, and desires, can easily be swayed in such an environment.

But Psalm 56:4 is a battle cry against fear. The world may be broken, but it does not dictate the fate of those who put their trust in God. No matter how fierce the storm, how hostile the opposition, the Word of the Lord stands firm. His promises remain, and His salvation is unshaken. We are called to cling to His truth, to trust in Him above all else, to fix our eyes on eternity instead of being consumed by the chaos of the present age.

The Eternal Reward

The trials we endure now will fade in the light of eternity. What is fleeting cannot compare to the everlasting. Scripture is clear that suffering for righteousness’ sake is temporary, but the reward for faithfulness is eternal. Paul writes in Romans 8:18, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” This world may threaten, it may strike, it may seek to shake our faith, but those who remain steadfast will receive the crown of life.

Jesus Himself warned that His followers would be persecuted, hated for His name’s sake, yet He promised that their endurance would lead to eternal victory. In Matthew 24:13, He declares, “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” The race set before us is difficult, requiring obedience, unwavering trust, and faith that does not waver. But every sacrifice made for Christ will be repaid in eternal joy.

Revelation 21:4 paints a beautiful picture of the future awaiting those who trust in Him: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” The pain, the fear, the trials—they will all be forgotten in the presence of our King. Our obedience now, our faithfulness despite the turmoil, will result in everlasting peace.

Question for Reflection

What fears have tried to take hold in your heart, and how can you replace them with unwavering trust in God’s Word?

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my refuge in the storm, my unwavering foundation in a chaotic world. I praise Your Word, Your truth that stands eternal, and I trust in You completely. May fear never rule over me, and may my heart always find courage in You. Strengthen me to walk in obedience, to endure through trials, and to fix my gaze on the promises of eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May you find peace in His Presence and strength in His promises. Keep running the race with faith, knowing the victory is already won.

DEAR GOD: You Are With Me All The Seasons Of My Life~

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" I Will Never Leave You Nor Forsake You Joshua 1 Verse 6 | God’s ...

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” –Romans 12:15

 

When I see this verse from Romans 12:15- immediately the LORD comes to mind. He is the One that rejoices with us, and weeps with us as we go through life. He is the consummate Friend and Protector, and our Almighty Abba Father. And the One who is there for every single second of our lives here on earth, and if we are faithful servants and followers – He will be there when we join Him in Eternity.

Life is a series of ups and downs.  A virtual collection of gains and losses.  We have good times, and good seasons. Ostensibly, we have bad times, and bad seasons.

We can gather great gains. We can suffer great losses. And in all honestly and reality, we wouldn’t be living if these things didn’t occur.  Because LIFE happens to be constantly changing, it doesn’t remain stagnant. If it did – then something is amiss. Because as the water flows, so does life. It swirls, it babbles, it creates waves, it can be placid. So, too are our patterns in life. It is ever moving-ever changing-ever flowing!

If we are fortunate, we get to see many different aspects of life. Including major milestones!  Our first birthday!  Our sweet 16!  Entering adulthood – 21st birthday a major one for me!  Then, if we are blessed- marriage, children – careers.  And each decade after that, we are in celebration of our life- thanks to the One who made it all possible.

When I lost my dad – 26 years ago. I literally had trouble breathing, I felt like I was suffocating. Like I was moving in slow motion. Like a living nightmare I was unable to awaken from.  But – with my siblings, and my beautiful beloved mom, family and friends – I got through the tragic and untimely death of my dad.  But the ONE that held me up, the entire time?  You got it and guessed it correctly – the LORD!

And He, my LORD wept along with me. He reminded me that I would see my dad again, and that my dad was with Him in heaven. And it brough great relief and comfort to my soul. His Words, His promises, and His Presence all provided soothing balm for my aching broken heart. And anyone who suffered the loss of a parent(s) or a loved one in general – can all relate to that feeling of anguish.

When my mom passed away on another one of my “milestone birthdays” – I was unable to breathe once again…and yet again -the LORD gave me breath from His heart and His love – and got me through it.  I recognized mom going home to heaven on my birthday as a gift. She had “delivered me” that very day (all those years ago!) and the LORD “delivered her” back home to His arms. So, consequently I’ve come to think of it as a blessing and a gift from the LORD.  

So – the verse I started this post with from Romans – is vital to our existence as Christians. Because when you meditate upon it, you will understand and feel the significance of those very words.  Throughout our lifetime, there will always be moments we share with family, friends, colleagues, that all together comprise many components of humanity.  That is to say -sadness, happiness, gains, losses, and seasons of joy, and seasons of happiness. And at times, season of stillness.  The critically important thing in all of these moments is to remember, that our LORD is with us through it all!  And that is what matters. Because with HIM we can survive and go on.

When we cling to Him and hold His hand as He guides us throughout our lifetime and aspire to do all according to His will and purpose in our lives, we will be able to LIVE a LIFE worth LIVING!

Yes!

“Father, God -thank You for holding our hand through it all – good times and bad, we love You always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

“… teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Matthew 28:20 (NKJV)