Tag Archives: Commandments

DEAR GOD: Teach Us The Essence Of Our Trials~

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Count It All Joy: The Essence of Trials

James, the brother of Jesus, opens his letter with a powerful exhortation: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds”-James 1:2 (ESV). This seemingly paradoxical statement invites us to view adversity through a different lens. Here’s what we can glean from this verse when we delve further into it and meditate upon the richness and versatility of this quote.

  1. Trials Are Inevitable: James doesn’t say “if” but “when” you encounter trials. Life is filled with challenges—physical, emotional, and spiritual. These trials come in diverse forms: illness, loss, relational struggles, and more.
  2. Joy Amidst Suffering: Joy isn’t about denying pain; it’s about finding purpose within it. When we face trials, we’re not expected to plaster on a fake smile. Instead, we’re invited to recognize that God can use these difficulties for our growth. Understand it is for a reason. It may not be made known to us immediately, or ever – but suffice to say there is always a reason to all things we endeavor in this lifetime.
  3. Faith’s Refining Fire: Trials test our faith. Just as gold is purified by fire, our faith is refined through adversity. It’s not about avoiding trials but allowing them to shape us. And with the LORD guiding us, directing us, and holding us up – we get through it with His help and strength.

Scriptural Support and Reflections

Let’s explore some related verses:

  1. Romans 5:3-4: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Our trials lead to a chain reaction: perseverance, character, and ultimately, hope.
  2. 1 Peter 1:6-7: “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”

Christianity Today and Moral Reflections

In our contemporary context, Christianity faces challenges—secularism, moral relativism, and skepticism. How can we respond?

  1. Authentic Faith: We must live out our faith genuinely, even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular. Authenticity speaks louder than mere words, that is to say – our actions – our way of presenting ourselves while reflecting Christ in all we do.
  2. Compassion: Trials remind us of our shared humanity. Let’s extend compassion to others, recognizing their struggles and offering support. Be open-minded, and do not judge -or be critical – instead go forward with the joy of the spirit that is dwelling within us.
  3. Hope: Our joy isn’t based on circumstances but on the hope anchored in Christ. We can be better Christians by clinging to this eternal hope. CHRIST is our hope. CHRIST is LIFE. CHRIST is Light. CHRIST is our salvation.

Reflective Questions and Stories

  1. How do you respond to trials? Reflect on your own experiences.
  2. Have you seen God’s faithfulness in difficult times? Share your story.

Moral Meditative Thoughts

  1. Endurance: Trials build endurance. Embrace them as opportunities for growth, and meditate on how we may help others in similar circumstances.
  2. Unity: We’re part of a global family. Let’s stand together, supporting one another, opening ourselves to understanding and coping strategies within the body of Christ.

Unity Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, in our trials, grant us eyes to see beyond the pain. May we find joy in the refining process, knowing that You’re at work. Unite us as brothers and sisters, bound by faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May this reflection upon James 1:2 guide you toward deeper faith and resilience, understanding, compassion and a desire to serve Christ fully and wholeheartedly all the days of your lives…

 

Tribulation Is A Promise From Jesus | Servus Christi

DEAR GOD: We Are Yours In Unity Forever~

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God's Love for Us Meaning & How He Expresses It

“I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them.”
John 17:9-10 (NKJV)

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  “Glorified in Unity”

In this poignant passage, Jesus offers a heartfelt prayer to the Father. His words resonate across time, touching our hearts and inviting us to explore the depths of His Divine love, unity, and purpose. Let’s together as children of the Light and the LORD -embark on a reflective journey through these verses.

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Morals and Reflective Questions

Divine Focus: Jesus prays specifically for His disciples, emphasizing their unique relationship with God. How can we cultivate such intimacy in our own lives?

Worldly vs. Kingdom Perspective: Why does Jesus refrain from praying for the world? What does this reveal about His mission and priorities?

Ownership and Unity: The profound exchange of “Yours” and “Mine” underscores unity. How can we apply this principle to our relationships within the body of Christ?

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Christianity Today: A Lens on John 17:9-10

In our modern context, these verses illuminate several aspects of Christian living:

Intercession: Jesus models intercessory prayer. As believers, we are called to intercede for one another, lifting each other up before God. Praying for others is a powerful action for Christians. It is the action and belief that a higher power, Christ can intercede – and is listening to our requests, at all times.

Selective Prayer: Jesus’ focus on His disciples teaches us discernment. We pray not only for ourselves but also for those entrusted to our care. When we pray for others, we represent Christ and His light. His Spirit guides us through the process and the unction from the Spirit provokes us to respond accordingly. We take responsibility in the name of CHRIST and let our requests be known, and if according to His will – it shall be done.

Glorification: Our unity with Christ brings glory to Him. When we live in harmony, reflecting His love, we magnify His name. When we purport to live according to His commandments and His Gospel, we are magnifying His glory to not only ourselves, but to others as a witness to His Magnificence and Omnipotent power and Presence.

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Ethical Implications

Inclusivity: Jesus’ prayer extends beyond His immediate circle. It went to ALL individuals, no exceptions. He loved mightily and freely. He extended that mercy upon all who were willing to receive it. How can we broaden our prayers to include others?

Stewardship: Recognizing that all are God’s, we become stewards of His grace. We accept that role readily and without hesitation respond in a loving and sincere fashion in all we do and speak.

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God’s Love: The Heart of John 17:9-10

God’s love permeates every word. Jesus prays for His own, affirming their belongingness. His love transcends boundaries, embracing us as His children. We, too, are recipients of this Divine affection, it extends to ALL generations, has in the past, currently, and into the future generations – until the end of the age. His love knows no boundaries – He loves unconditionally- and He waits with open arms for us to accept Him as our LORD and Savior, our Redeemer, the one true Son of the only living God!  Have you accepted Him?

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Meditative Takeaway

Consider the intertwining threads of ownership, unity, and love. Ponder how your life glorifies God. As you pray, remember that you are part of a grand tapestry—a beloved child of the Father, and as Christians we are called to respond as children of the LORD, in all ways acknowledge the LORD, follow His voice, and love Him with all our might, heart, mind, and soul!

United Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of unity. May we cherish our fellow believers, recognizing that we are Yours, and that You are our LORD and Savior.  Guide us and help us continue to glorify You through our lives, help us to intercede fervently and love unconditionally, and see and hear as Your Son does, this day and all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May John 17:9-10 continue to inspire and transform while drawing us closer to the heart of Christ.

 

Bible Verses About God's Love | GospelChops

 

DEAR GOD: May We Have Wisdom To Speak Your Word~

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~Wisdom to Speak Under God’s Correction~

Psalm 39- reflects on the frailty of human life, the fleeting nature of our days, and the need to place our hope in God. It acknowledges our tendency to sin with our words and emphasizes seeking wisdom and forgiveness from the Lord. The closing prayer asks for strength and mercy as we journey through life.

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 Psalm 39 – is attributed to King David, though its specific context remains uncertain. It opens with David’s inner struggle to guard his words wisely, especially when facing the wicked. The psalm is a prayer for wisdom and self-control, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life and the need to place our hope in God.

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 Silent Agony -Verses 1-3

David begins by resolving to guard his tongue, lest he sin in the presence of the wicked. He chooses silence even from speaking good, recognizing that his words could be misunderstood or misused.

Reflective Question: How can we exercise wisdom in our speech, especially when faced with opposition or temptation?

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Inner Turmoil -Verse 3

David’s silence leads to inner turmoil; his heart grows hot, and the fire of emotion burns within him. Sometimes silence isn’t golden; it can stir up intense feelings and create inner conflict.

Reflective Question: When have you experienced inner turmoil due to unexpressed emotions or thoughts?

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Seeking Wisdom- Verses 4-6

David turns to the Lord, asking for insight into his life’s purpose and the brevity of his days. He acknowledges life’s fleeting nature, emphasizing that even at our best, we are mere vanity.

Reflective Question: How can we seek God’s wisdom in understanding our purpose and the brevity of life?

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David’s Prayer -Verses 12-13

David pleads with God to spare him, allowing him to recover strength before departing this life. His prayer acknowledges his status as a stranger and sojourner, longing for God’s mercy.

Reflective Question: How can we cultivate a heart that seeks God’s mercy and strength in our journey?

  •  Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 reminds us of life’s seasons and the importance of seeking God’s purpose in each.
  • James 1:19 encourages us to be slow to speak and quick to listen, recognizing the power of our words.
  • Proverbs 16:24 emphasizes that gracious words are like honeycomb—sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

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Unity Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, as we journey through this fleeting life, grant us wisdom to guard our tongues and speak with discernment. Help us find solace in Your presence, knowing that our days are but a handbreadth. May our hearts burn with passion for You, and may our words reflect Your grace. Lord, spare us, strengthen us, and guide us as we walk as strangers in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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Meditative Takeaway

Reflect on the brevity of life and the impact of your words. Seek God’s wisdom, and may your speech be a reflection of His love. Remember that even in silence, our hearts can burn with purpose. May you find strength and mercy as you journey onward.

God always invites us to meditate and explore His Word.  May we all delve into Psalm 39 further. May it inspire you to seek wisdom and grow in your faith journey.

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Psalm 39:1-13 (KJV)

I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.

I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred.

My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire bur

ned: then spake I with my tongue,

Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am.

Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.

Surely every man walketh in a vain shew: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them.

And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.

Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish.

I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it.

Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand.

When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity. Selah.

Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.

O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more.  

DEAR GOD: Amen! & Amen! & Amen!~

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HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER - HOPE CHURCH TORONTO WEST

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. 

And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the
patient waiting for Christ. –

2 Thessalonians 3-1-5 (KJV) 

 

There is a song —” Just say Amen!” — and it exalts the LORD for all He has done, is doing, and will continue to do for His children.  And, so it goes, “If anyone here knows He is faithful, is there anyone here who knows He is able, Just say Amen…”

The song brings tears of joy and hope to the eyes of the faithful, it is a moving and powerful song that gets me every time I hear it-and most of all, it is so true.

Almost everyone has a story to tell and moments that led up to that story, and currently living out that story in heights of glory for the LORD thanks to His grace and love.

Giving Him glory and praise and saying Amen to all He is and continues to be it a joyful and fantastic way of spending our time during our life.  He is the center of all that we are, all that we do, and all that we see, hear, taste, feel and experience.  When we walk with Him and hold onto His ways and listen to His voice, we will be spiritually enacted and cohesively react according to the principles of the Word -and Him.

Joyful, Joyful, and so amazing is my Lord and His love for me!

Hold Him in your heart, mind, and soul.  Think of Him and ask Him for guidance in all that you do.

And think back about what He has done in your life.  When you pray, reflect on your blessings and how He HAS blessed you over and over. Think of the times He has moved mightily in your life -before complaining about “but He isn’t hearing my prayers now.”  No.  That’s not so!  He listens to the cries of His children.  He knows our needs.  And He does hear always.   It has to be in His time, and according to His will.

So, think back to all He has done for you, or someone you love or know.  And, then realize that He is there for us always and always will be. I invite you to just be patient and continue giving Him praise, glory and obedience in reflection of His love and His will, today and all the days on earth, and then eventually into the glorious entrance of heaven where we will live on in eternity!

“Thank You Lord, I know You are able, and You are faithful, and You are mighty, and You are powerful, and thank You for Your steadfast love, endurance and compassion, I love You now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May the realization and comfort of this powerful verse bring about a personal reflection as you acknowledge and thank the LORD for all He has done in your life and continues to do, may you ascribe to His Word and His ways, and most of all – give Him unending thanks and glory!

DEAR GOD: Our Marriage Represents YOU!~

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THE MARRIAGE COVENANT – Ministry of the Watchman International ...

The Covenant Of Marriage

In the Divine narrative of human relationships, marriage stands as a sacred covenant, a testament to the union not just of two individuals, but of two souls bound by a promise of eternal companionship. The Bible speaks of this covenant with reverence, highlighting its significance and sanctity. Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse encapsulates the essence of marriage as envisioned by God—a harmonious blend of two lives into a single, unified existence.

The covenant of marriage is not merely a social contract; it is a spiritual vow that mirrors the fidelity and love of God for His creation. Malachi 2:14-16 reminds us that the Lord is a witness to this covenant, underscoring the gravity of the commitment made between spouses. It is a pledge of faithfulness, where love is not a fleeting emotion but a steadfast choice, a decision to uphold and honor one another through every season of life.

As we delve into the depths of this divine institution, we find that marriage is a reflection of God’s own covenant with humanity—a promise of unwavering presence, support, and love. It is a relationship that demands respect, understanding, and grace, much like the relationship between Christ and the Church, as described in Ephesians 5:1-332.

We can sum up that the moral of the covenant of marriage is this: That true love is not found in grand gestures or fleeting passions, but in the quiet commitment to stand by each other, to support and cherish one another in every circumstance. It is a love that emulates the love of God—unconditional, forgiving, all-encompassing and eternal.

Reflective Questions:

  • How can we ensure that our marriages reflect the covenantal love that God has shown us?
  • In what ways can we demonstrate the attributes of God—such as patience, kindness, and forgiveness—in our relationships with our spouses?
  • What steps can we take to honor the sanctity of the marriage covenant in our daily lives?

Unity Prayer:

“Dear Precious and Gracious God, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your blessing upon the sacred covenant of marriage. May every union be a living testimony of Your divine love and faithfulness. We pray for strength to uphold the vows made before You, to embody the love and grace that You have so generously bestowed upon us. Help us, O Lord, to mirror Your covenantal love in our marriages, to be patient, kind, and forgiving, reflecting Your glory in our companionship. May our relationships be built on the foundation of Your Word, guided by Your Spirit, and strengthened by Your presence. We thank You for being our ultimate example of love and commitment. May our marriages honor You and serve as beacons of Your light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: You Are My Strength & Power Always~

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In God's Strength, We Can Achieve Greater - Blues to Blessings

God is my strength and power,
And He makes my way perfect.
2 Samuel 22:33 (NKJV)

 

The Unassailable Strength of God

In the heart of the Old Testament, nestled within the historical narrative of 2 Samuel, we find a verse that resounds with the timeless truth of God’s strength and sovereignty. 2 Samuel 22:33 declares, “God is my strength and power, And He makes my way perfect,” a testament to the Divine support and guidance that King David experienced throughout his tumultuous life.

This verse is part of a longer song of praise, a psalm of deliverance that David sang to the Lord on the day when the Lord had delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. It encapsulates the essence of David’s reliance on God, not just as a source of physical strength but as the architect of a blameless path through life’s trials and tribulations.

The Bible is overflowing with affirmations of God’s strength and power. In Psalm 18:2, David echoes a similar sentiment, “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust.” This passage reminds us that our fortitude stems not from our own capabilities but from our reliance on God.

The New Testament also carries this theme forward. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul speaks of God’s grace being sufficient, for His power is made perfect in weakness. This paradoxical strength is not one that dominates or destroys but rather empowers and perfects.

Moreover, Isaiah 40:31 offers a vivid image of those who hope in the Lord renewing their strength, soaring on wings like eagles, running without growing weary, walking without fainting. It’s a promise of Divine rejuvenation for the fatigued soul, an assurance that God’s power is an ever-present source of renewal.

As we reflect on these scriptures, we see a pattern of God’s power manifesting not in the absence of adversity but amidst it. It’s a power that doesn’t prevent the storm but steadies the ship in its raging waves. It’s a strength that doesn’t remove the mountain but grants us the endurance to climb it.

Reflective Questions

  • How have you experienced God’s strength in your own life?
  • In what ways can recognizing God’s power transform your approach to challenges?
  • How does the assurance of God’s perfect way influence your daily decisions and actions?

Closing Thoughts

In the overall grand scheme of life, each action we do or apply is observed and watched by our LORD. He is the One that ultimately judge us by our actions and thoughts and ways – this is woven with Divine intention. May we rest in the knowledge that the God who created the universe is the same God who promises to make our way perfect. He is there non-stop protecting, leading, directing, guiding.  Let us walk in that perfection, not as a measure of our own righteousness, but as a reflection of His strength and power at work within us, and above all as a testament of HIS LOVE for His children – along with all of His promises in the Bible…

” LORD, You are our strength and our Shield, our Rock in times of trouble. Your power is unmatched, Your wisdom unsearchable. As we meditate on Your Word, may we find solace in Your strength and guidance on the path You’ve set before us. Help us to trust in Your Sovereign hand, knowing that You work all things for our good and Your glory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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May this verse and post through the LORD’s wisdom and guidance bring about a deeper understanding and knowledge of the LORD’s love, and how we may apply this to our lives at this very moment…

 

DEAR GOD: You Are Our Jehovah-Rapha – My Healer~

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Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

 

“And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.”
-Exodus 15:26 

Exodus 15:26 is a verse that encapsulates the profound nature of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting His role as a healer and protector. The verse reads: “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer.”

It stands today with us as well if we follow His ways, commandments and His voice – and trust in Him. He will lead us to safety and heal our hearts and souls. We need to seek Him first in all we do.

The Covenant of Healing: This verse is set in the context of God’s covenant with Israel. It follows the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and their crossing of the Red Sea. Here, God promises to be their healer, but this promise is conditional upon their obedience and faithfulness. It’s a powerful reminder that the relationship between God and His people is interactive and reciprocal.

When we obey and align with His Word and follow Him and do all according to His will and purpose for our lives, we will be healed in more ways than one. Our body heart mind and soul is in His very capable hands.

God as Jehovah-Rapha: The name Jehovah-Rapha, meaning “The Lord Who Heals,” is revealed in this passage. It’s not just physical healing that’s in view here, but a holistic restoration—spiritual, emotional, and societal. The diseases of Egypt can be seen as symbolic of the spiritual and moral corruption that God’s people are to be delivered from.

The evil world and chaotic setting in our society today is how God will heal. He will lighten our load and highlight the path in which we should walk. He will heal our souls and wash us clean. 

Moral Implications: The moral takeaway from Exodus 15:26 is the importance of obedience and trust in God. It teaches us that adherence to God’s commandments is not merely a legalistic requirement but a path to well-being and protection from the ‘diseases’—be they literal or figurative—that afflict humanity.

As we reflect and meditate on His Word and partake of His goodness in all we do, we will see His promises come to fruition. He will ultimately heal us in the way it is most beneficial for us.  The biggest healing is of our souls that we can live forever through Christ.

Exodus 15:26 serves as a reminder that God’s desire for His people is wholeness and health. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we are responding to God’s call to obedience. Are we listening to His voice and doing what is right in His eyes?

  Reflection:

  • How can we apply the principle of obedience to God in our modern context?
  • What are the ‘diseases’ in our lives that we need healing from?
  • In what ways can we become more attuned to the voice of God?

 “Dear Lord, You are Jehovah-Rapha, our healer. We thank You for Your promises and Your faithfulness. Help us to listen to Your voice and to walk in Your ways without fail.  Heal us from diseases that plague our spirits and our societies. May we find our strength and restoration in You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Peace Transcends Beyond Time~

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Peace I Leave With You My Peace I Give You HD Jesus Wallpapers | HD ...

“Let the Peace of Jesus Christ Rule in Your Hearts”

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where chaos and noise often drown out moments of tranquility, the scripture from Colossians 3:15, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,” emerges as a beacon of serenity and harmony. This verse is not merely a suggestion; it is an imperative, a command that carries with it the weight of divine wisdom and the promise of a life transformed.

The Essence of Christ’s Peace

The peace of Christ is unlike any worldly peace. It is not the absence of trouble but the presence of a profound assurance that transcends circumstances. To let this peace rule in our hearts is to allow it to govern our actions, decisions, and reactions. It is to submit to its authority, letting it arbitrate when conflict arises within us or around us. This peace is a gift, one that was purchased through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross and is freely offered to all who believe in Him.

The Call to Unity

Colossians 3:15 also reminds us that we are called to peace as members of one body. This is a call to unity, to live in harmony with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It is a reminder that our interactions with others should be characterized by the love and grace that have been shown to us. When the peace of Christ rules in our hearts, it breaks down barriers of hostility and builds bridges of fellowship.

The Attitude of Gratitude

Moreover, the latter part of the verse, “And be thankful,” is not to be overlooked. Gratitude is the natural response to the recognition of Christ’s peace in our lives. It is an acknowledgment that every breath, every moment of calm, every resolved conflict is a gift from above. A thankful heart is a heart at peace, one that sees the good in every situation and gives credit where credit is due.

Living Out the Peace of Christ

To live out the peace of Christ is to walk in step with the Spirit, to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit in every aspect of life. It is to choose patience over impatience, kindness over cruelty, and humility over pride. It is to forgive as we have been forgiven and to love as we have been loved. The peace of Christ compels us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

Closing Moral:

The moral of this scripture is clear: peace is not just a state of being-but instead it is an active choice, a daily decision to let the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ govern our hearts and lives. It is a commitment to reflect His peace in a world that desperately needs it.

Closing Questions:

How can we more effectively let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts in practical ways? What steps can we take to ensure that this peace is not just an internal experience but also evident in our relationships and interactions with others?

 “Dear Lord, I thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding, the peace that Your Son, Jesus Christ, offers to me. Help me to let this peace rule in my heart, guiding me in every decision and action. May I be an instrument of Your peace, spreading love and unity wherever I go. Teach me to be thankful in all circumstances, recognizing Your hand in every part of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Protection and Being Our Shield~

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My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart - The Bible ...

For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield-Psalm 1:12 (KJV)

Divine Favor as a Shield

The verse “For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield” speaks to the profound relationship between the Divine and the righteous. It suggests that righteousness is not merely a path of moral rectitude but also a state of being that attracts the Lord’s blessings. The imagery of the Lord’s favor as a shield encapsulates the protective and encompassing nature of divine grace.

God will always inherently protect His children and followers; He is a constant shield and provider for all of us.  He is the consummate Father that covers us with love and mercy all the days of our lives – even when we sin, he loves us – and will forgive us our transgressions if we repent and have a contrite heart.

As children of faith going about our daily lives with this knowledge in place makes for a joyous living – knowing how God is with us always and is the purveyor and Father of all blessings from above.

As you go through your daily routine and tasks -give thanks to God that He is with you always, and never will leave you. He accompanies you all the days of your life! Isn’t that totally reassuring? And isn’t that something to give thanks about.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How does the concept of divine favor as a shield resonate with your personal experiences?
  2. What are the implications of viewing divine favor as a form of protection in daily life?

“Dear Heavenly Father, we seek Your favor, not as a mere desire for protection, but as an affirmation of our walk-in righteousness. May Your grace surround us like a shield, deflecting malice and guiding us to Your light. Bless us with the wisdom to discern right from wrong and the strength to uphold Your virtues, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Can We Tell Others To Be Still & Let You~

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

Can we ultimately stop and just stand still and think “God, I know You have me and all good intentions towards me, so I’ll stop and let YOU be YOU!”

It can be life affirming to some to recognize the need to “let God take over and be God” in your life. For those who are “control freaks” let go – and let God be God. He is the ultimate Warrior and Savior and He conquered death, performed recorded miracles and countless others I’m sure that weren’t recorded, and He loves us with the intensity of ten thousand suns and more! So, why do some have problems letting go and letting God be God?

Well, the aforementioned one “control” is one of the reasons. A lot of Christians in a “tepid” relationship with Jesus may not have fully come to the understanding that we are “to go to Him in all things” both big and small, good and bad.  That is kind of a reason that sits atop a lot of people’s way of thinking. As a matter of fact, I ran a support group and that was the number one reason for the group. “I have to be in control – if I surrender that seems I’m a failure.”  NOT TRUE!

When we as believers go forward with the mind-set of “not allowing God to be God and acquiescing to His will, and His ways, and His commandments – that’s when we “fail.” We don’t fail when we give in to God, we fail miserably when we don’t.

I am trying to help some individuals who are just becoming Christian. They were acquainted with who Jesus is – but never really in the Word or understanding why or how to behave as a Christian.

Then God showed me verses and gave me the wisdom to show them what they can do, and where they could start. We spoke at length and there were many questions pouring forward, all rushing out at once. And it was quite a drenching in the Spirit, because they all gave themselves to Jesus and were born of the Spirit. It was fabulous!

If one tries to help those who are deeper in the Word, yet also don’t feel they “should bother God” with little things, so they do it on their own. This to me is probably worse than not knowing at all. Remember what was said in Revelation? Jesus used water supply as a spiritual metaphor. “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:15-16).

So, for those who should know better – it retracts and meanders into another whole perspective. We should be aware that God is God, and in as much – know that He is capable of doing anything and has proven it over and over in the Bible – as well as in your life today. I’m sure you can think back to issues or circumstances where God took over – and brought you safely to a place of peace, or healing.

Jesus warned them that He would spit them out of His mouth, meaning that He would reject them and cast them away from His presence. This was a severe judgment that indicated their spiritual condition was wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked (Revelation 3:17).

Let God be God – be still…and enjoy the inherent joy of being a child of the King of kings, LORD of lords. And then watch how living as a Christian and going to God for all things will bring you a life WORTH LIVING! Amen!

“Father-thank You for being You and taking care of all things on my behalf, You are in control and I surrender to You fully and completely, You are my LORD and Savior, and I am Yours, may I remember to ‘be still and know that You are God’ all the days of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”