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DEAR GOD: Show Us The Essence of Waiting on You LORD~

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Quietly, Waiting on the Lord

“Be still, and know that I am God.” These words, nestled within Psalm 46:10, invite us to cease our striving and surrender our hearts to the Almighty. In a world that constantly demands our attention, it is essential to cultivate a quiet spirit and actively listen for God’s voice. Waiting upon the Lord is not a passive state but an active pursuit of His guidance and wisdom.

When we reflect on the following verses -we try to truly seek to understand the profound meaning of being still and waiting upon the Lord:

  1. Psalm 37:7 – “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.”
  2. Isaiah 40:31 – “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
  3. Lamentations 3:25 – “The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.”
  4. Psalm 27:14 – “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”
  5. Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
  6. James 5:7-8 – “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.”

As we meditate on these scriptures, let us ponder the following reflective questions:

  • How can I create moments of stillness in my daily life to hear God’s voice?
  • In what areas of my life do I need to trust and wait upon the Lord’s guidance?
  • How can I actively listen and seek God’s direction while waiting?
  • What steps can I take to strengthen my patience and trust in God’s timing?

Waiting upon the Lord is a dynamic process that involves active listening, seeking His guidance, and trusting in His perfect timing. It requires us to quiet our hearts, pray earnestly, and remain hopeful in His promises. Patience is indeed a virtue, and as we wait, pray, and listen, we grow in our faith and dependence on Him.

Waiting on the Lord is a spiritual practice that transcends mere passivity; it is a symbiotic relationship between our hearts and His Divine will. When we wait upon the Lord, we engage in active listening, seeking His guidance and direction with intentionality and purpose. This process requires us to be still and quiet our minds, allowing us to hear His voice amidst the noise of our daily lives.

One of the key aspects of waiting on the Lord is learning to trust in His perfect timing. In our fast-paced world, we often seek immediate answers and solutions, but God’s timing is not always aligned with our own. By waiting on Him, we develop patience and learn to surrender our desires and expectations to His greater plan. This act of surrender is a profound demonstration of our faith and trust in His sovereignty.

Moreover, waiting on the Lord helps us cultivate a deeper sense of peace and contentment. When we place our hopes and anxieties in His hands, we can rest in the assurance that He is in control. This peace is not contingent on our circumstances but is rooted in the unchanging nature of God. As we wait, we are reminded of His faithfulness and His promises, which bring comfort and strength to our souls.

In addition, waiting on the Lord provides an opportunity for personal growth and transformation. During this time, God works within us, shaping our character and refining our faith. We learn to rely on Him more fully and discover areas of our lives that need His healing touch. This process of growth is essential for our spiritual maturity and helps us become more attuned to His will.

Waiting on the Lord also fosters a deeper sense of community and connection with fellow believers. As we share our experiences and support one another in our waiting, we build a strong foundation of faith and encouragement. This sense of unity helps us persevere through difficult times and reminds us that we are not alone in our journey.

Lastly, waiting on the Lord is an act of worship and devotion. By choosing to wait and seek His guidance, we acknowledge His lordship over our lives and demonstrate our commitment to following Him. This act of worship draws us closer to God and deepens our relationship with Him, allowing us to experience His presence in a profound and meaningful way.

In our fast-paced lives, waiting on the Lord is a countercultural practice that requires intentionality and discipline. However, the rewards of this practice are immeasurable, as it brings us closer to God and aligns our hearts with His Divine will. As we wait, let us be active listeners, seeking His guidance and trusting in His perfect timing.

May we find peace, growth, community, and worship in our waiting, and may our hearts be ever attuned to His voice.

 “Dear LORD-we come before You with hearts filled with reverence and awe. Teach us to be still and know that You are God. Help us to quiet our minds and listen for Your gentle whisper, seeking Your guidance in all that we do. Grant us the patience to wait upon You and trust in Your perfect timing. Strengthen our faith as we actively pursue Your will and direction in our lives. May we find peace in Your presence and be filled with hope as we wait upon You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

 

May these verses encourage and uplift your spirit as you continue to seek the Lord and wait upon His guidance in all you do , all the days of your life, God Bless You All~

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DEAR GOD: Help Us Find Joy In The Midst Of Stagnation~

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Finding Joy in the Midst of Stagnation

In the journey of life, there are moments when we feel stuck, not knowing what to do or how to refresh our souls. These periods of stagnation can leave us feeling empty and restless, yearning for a renewed sense of purpose and joy. However, as Christians, we have a wellspring of hope and guidance in the Scriptures and the values they impart.

Understanding Stagnation and Emptiness

Feeling stagnant often stems from a disconnect with our purpose and the absence of fulfilling activities. It’s like being adrift without a compass, unsure of which direction to take. Emptiness can feel like a void in our hearts, where once there was joy and enthusiasm. During such times, it’s crucial to remember that these feelings are not permanent, and that God’s love and guidance are always available to us.

Supportive Scriptures and Christian Values

  1. Seeking God’s Presence: Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In moments of stillness, we can reconnect with God’s presence and find solace in His love. Taking time to pray, meditate, and read the Scriptures can refresh our spirits and provide clarity.
  2. Trusting in God’s Plan: Jeremiah 29:11 offers hope with the words, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Trusting in God’s plan for our lives can help us navigate through stagnation, knowing that He has a purpose for us.
  3. Embracing Patience and Steadiness: James 1:4 encourages us, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Patience is a virtue that allows us to endure tough times and grow in faith and character.

Refilling Our Souls and Finding Joy

To refill our souls and dance with joy to the Lord’s music in our hearts, we can take the following steps:

  1. Engage in Worship: Worship is a powerful way to connect with God and experience His presence. Singing hymns, participating in church services, and spending time in personal worship can uplift our spirits and fill our hearts with joy.
  2. Serve Others: Acts of kindness and service can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply being there for a friend in need can reignite our passion for life and remind us of the joy in giving.
  3. Reflect and Journal: Reflecting on our blessings and journaling our thoughts and prayers can help us gain perspective and appreciate the goodness in our lives. It’s a practice that can foster gratitude and a deeper connection with God.
  4. Embrace New Experiences: Sometimes, trying new activities or hobbies can bring a fresh perspective and excitement. Whether it’s learning a new skill, exploring nature, or embarking on a creative project, new experiences can invigorate our lives.

Reflective Questions

  • What activities or practices bring you closer to God and fill your heart with joy?
  • How can you incorporate more moments of stillness and reflection into your daily routine?
  • In what ways can you serve others and share God’s love in your community?
  • What new experiences or hobbies can you try to reignite your passion for life?

Oversight: Empty Feelings vs. Fullness of Heart, Restlessness vs. Steadiness

The contrast between empty feelings and fullness of heart lies in our connection with God and our sense of purpose. Emptiness often arises from a lack of direction, while fullness of heart is rooted in a strong relationship with God and a clear sense of His plan for our lives. Restlessness can be a symptom of inner turmoil and uncertainty, whereas steadiness and patience come from trusting in God’s timing and having faith in His promises.

A Prayer for Renewal

“Dear Lord- In times of stagnation and emptiness, we come to You seeking renewal and joy. Fill our hearts with Your love and presence, and guide us in Your ways. Help us to be patient and trust in Your plan, finding purpose and fulfillment in serving others and embracing new experiences. May we always dance with joy to Your music in our hearts, knowing that You are our refuge and strength. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”

A Scripture to Ponder

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

May this article provide comfort and inspiration during times of stagnation and guide you towards a renewed sense of purpose and joy. God Bless You All~ 

 

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DEAR GOD: Thanks For Your Infinite Mercy and Forgiveness~

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February 27 – Jesus Christ Has Forgiven Us | Seeds for the Soul | Forgiveness, Jesus christ, Jesus

“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” –Psalm 86:5

 

The Infinite Mercy and Forgiveness of God

Psalm 86:5 declares, “For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” This powerful verse encapsulates the nature of God’s boundless mercy and readiness to forgive those who seek Him. It serves as a comforting reminder of His unwavering love and compassion towards humanity.

Supportive Scriptures

Several other scriptures reflect similar themes:

  • Lamentations 3:22-23: “It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
  • 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
  • Isaiah 55:7: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”

These verses collectively underscore the idea that God’s mercy and forgiveness are not only vast but also ever-renewing and accessible to all who earnestly seek His grace.

Reflective Questions

  1. What does it mean to you personally that God is “ready to forgive”?
  2. How does the concept of God’s mercy influence your daily actions and decisions?
  3. In what ways can you extend mercy and forgiveness to others, reflecting God’s character?

Moral Thoughts

God’s readiness to forgive and His abundant mercy call us to a higher moral standard. They encourage us to adopt an attitude of forgiveness towards others, understanding that we, too, are recipients of immense grace. It challenges us to look beyond faults and extend love and compassion, recognizing that everyone is in need of mercy.

Biblical Perspective

From a biblical standpoint, God’s mercy is a recurring theme that underscores His relationship with humanity. Despite human failures and transgressions, God remains steadfast in His love, always willing to forgive those who repent. This is vividly illustrated in the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32), where the father (representing God) eagerly welcomes back his wayward son, embodying boundless forgiveness and unconditional love.

Inner Thoughts & Analysis

Analyzing Psalm 86:5 in today’s context, it serves as a beacon of hope and reassurance. In a world often characterized by judgment and condemnation, the verse reminds us of the divine nature of forgiveness. It calls us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can cultivate a spirit of mercy. The verse also encourages a personal relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of calling upon Him and seeking His forgiveness.

Contemporary Relevance

Today, the message of God’s mercy and forgiveness is perhaps more pertinent than ever. With societal tensions and personal struggles, the assurance that we are not beyond redemption provides profound comfort. It invites us to approach God with humility, confident in His willingness to forgive and renew.

Prayer

Dear Lord,

We thank You for Your infinite goodness and mercy. Your readiness to forgive fills our hearts with gratitude and hope. Help us to remember Your boundless compassion and to seek Your grace in times of need. Teach us to extend the same mercy to those around us, reflecting Your love in our daily lives. Guide us in our walk with You, strengthening our faith and deepening our understanding of Your word. In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

DEAR GOD: May I Be Guided By Your Spirit In Times Of Uncertainty~

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Trust God's Timing — Balanced Living Body & Spirit

 

 

In moments when we find ourselves stuck, unsure of where to turn, or what path to take, it is often a time of profound spiritual reflection and growth. The Holy Bible offers us timeless wisdom and guidance in such moments of uncertainty.

Being Stuck and Seeking Guidance

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV). This passage reminds us to place our trust fully in the Lord, even when our own understanding falls short. It is in these moments of doubt and confusion that we must surrender to His divine wisdom and allow Him to guide us.

When we feel stuck, it is easy to become overwhelmed with worry and fear. However, the Word of God encourages us to “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, KJV). Being still before the Lord allows us to quiet our minds and open our hearts to His direction. It is in the stillness that we can hear the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit, guiding us toward the path He has prepared for us.

Waiting on God’s Timing

Waiting on God’s direction requires patience and faith. The Bible tells us, “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, KJV). Waiting on the Lord is not a passive act but an active and hopeful anticipation of His perfect timing.

Reflect upon the story of Abraham, who waited many years for the fulfillment of God’s promise. Abraham’s faith was tested, yet he remained steadfast, knowing that “he staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God” (Romans 4:20, KJV). Like Abraham, we too must hold onto God’s promises and trust that He will fulfill them in His time.

Reflective Questions:

  1. In what areas of your life do you feel most stuck and in need of God’s direction?
  2. How can you practice being still before the Lord to better hear His guidance?
  3. What promises of God can you hold onto during times of waiting?
  4. How has God guided you in the past, and how can those experiences strengthen your faith in the present?

A Prayer for Guidance and Patience

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come before Thee with a heart full of gratitude and reverence. In times of uncertainty and confusion, I seek Thy guidance and direction. Help me to trust in Thee with all mine heart and to lean not unto mine own understanding.

Lord, teach me to be still and to know that Thou art God. Open mine ears to hear the gentle whisper of Thy Holy Spirit, leading me in the paths of righteousness. Grant me the patience to wait upon Thee and to trust in Thy perfect timing.

As I navigate through life’s uncertainties, may I hold onto Thy promises and find strength in Thy Word. Help me to remember that Thou art faithful, and that Thy plans for me are good.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

May this reflection and prayer bring peace and clarity as you we all God’s direction and patiently wait for His guidance all the days of our lives and beyond.

God Bless you all

In God’s Timing

 

DEAR GOD: Time With You Is A Treasure ~

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17 Bible verses about One Day

2 Peter 3:8 (KJV) says, “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”

 

Reflective Commentary

This verse is a profound reminder of God’s timeless nature and His eternal perspective, which far surpasses our limited human understanding.

Divine Perspective: The phrase “one day is with the Lord as a thousand years” highlights the immense difference between God’s perception of time and our own. It speaks to the idea that God’s plans and purposes unfold according to His perfect timetable, which is not bound by human constraints. This divine perspective encourages believers to trust in God’s timing, even when it seems incomprehensible or delayed from our viewpoint.

Patience and Trust: “…and a thousand years as one day” suggests that what seems like an eternity to us is but a moment for God. This teaches us the virtue of patience and the importance of trusting in God’s long-term plans. It reassures us that God’s promises will be fulfilled, even if it takes longer than we expect. This perspective can provide comfort during times of waiting or uncertainty, knowing that God’s timing is perfect.

Faith in God’s Sovereignty: The verse underscores God’s sovereignty over all creation, including time itself. It affirms that God’s ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). By acknowledging this, we are called to surrender our need for immediate answers and instead place our faith in God’s infinite wisdom and perfect plan.

Supportive Scriptures:

  • Psalm 90:4 (KJV): “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.”
  • Habakkuk 2:3 (KJV): “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”
  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 (KJV): “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.”

Reflective Questions:

  1. How does understanding God’s timelessness affect your perspective on waiting for His promises?
  2. In what areas of your life are you struggling with impatience, and how can this verse help you find peace?
  3. How does trusting in God’s sovereignty over time change the way you approach your daily challenges?

Moral Takeaways:

This verse calls us to cultivate patience and trust in God’s perfect timing. It encourages us to shift our perspective from our limited, human understanding of time to God’s infinite, eternal view. By doing so, we can find peace and reassurance in knowing that His plans are unfolding in the best possible way.

Christianity Today vs. Years Ago:

In today’s fast-paced world, the message of this verse is particularly relevant. Modern society often demands instant results and immediate gratification. Yet, the timeless truth of God’s perfect timing remains constant. This verse challenges us to slow down, trust in God’s eternal perspective, and find comfort in His unchanging nature.

Prayer:

“LORD – Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of awe for Your eternal nature and Your perfect timing. Help us to trust in Your divine plans and to wait patiently for Your promises to unfold. Grant us the wisdom to understand that Your timing is always perfect, even when we cannot see it. Strengthen our faith and renew our spirits as we rest in the assurance of Your unchanging love and sovereignty. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Final Blessing:

May the Lord’s eternal perspective bring you peace, may His perfect timing fill you with patience, and may His sovereignty guide your every step.

God Bless You All~

This is the Day that the Lord has Made – The Barnabas Center

DEAR GOD: I Wait, Trust & Love You Forever~

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Waiting for God’s Word and Good Tidings

Waiting is often one of the most challenging aspects of our faith journey. Yet, it is also one of the most profound opportunities to deepen our trust in God. As we wait for His word and good
tidings, we learn to place our hope and faith in His perfect timing and wisdom.

Trusting in God while we wait is not a passive activity; it is an active, intentional process of
seeking His presence and leaning on His promises. 

It requires a heart that is steadfast and eyes fixed on Him, even when circumstances are uncertain. 


During these times, we are called to draw near to God through prayer, meditation, and worship, finding strength and courage in His
unfailing love.

In the waiting, God is at work within us, refining our character and aligning our desires with His will. It is a time of preparation, where we are molded and shaped for the plans He has for us.
Trusting in God’s word means believing that His promises are true and that He will bring about
good in His perfect time.

The act of waiting also cultivates patience and perseverance. It teaches us to rely not on our own understanding but on God’s infinite wisdom. As we wait, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness
throughout Scripture, seeing how He has delivered His people time and again. This gives us
hope and assurance that He will do the same for us.

Reflective Questions

  • How can I actively seek God’s presence while I wait for His word and good tidings?

  • What areas of my life require deeper trust and surrender to God’s will?

  • How can I cultivate patience and perseverance during times of waiting?

Supporting Scriptures

  • Psalm 27:14 (ESV): “Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage;
    wait for the LORD!”

    • Encourages us to find strength and courage in the waiting, trusting in God’s timing.

  • Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they
    shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

    • Reminds us that waiting on the Lord renews our strength and gives us the endurance to persevere.

  • Lamentations 3:25 (ESV): “The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul
    who seeks him.”

    • Affirms that God is good to those who wait and seek Him earnestly.

Moral Takeaways

  • Trust in God’s Timing: Believe in God’s perfect timing and trust that His plans are for
    our good.

  • Seek His Presence: Actively seek God’s presence through prayer, meditation, and
    worship during times of waiting.

  • Cultivate Patience: Embrace the waiting as a time to develop patience
    and perseverance, knowing that God is at work within us.

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of hope and trust. As we wait for Your word and good tidings, help us to seek Your presence daily, finding strength and courage in Your promises. Grant us the patience and perseverance to wait on Your perfect timing, knowing that You are at work within us. Align our desires with Your will and mold us for the plans You have for us. Thank You for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Blessing

May your heart be filled with peace and assurance as you wait on the Lord. Trust in His perfect timing and may His word and good tidings bring you comfort and joy. May His presence guide you, and His love sustain you every step of the way.

Stay strong in your faith, and remember, God is with you in every moment.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: You Love Me!-Thank You!-With Love, Me~

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Jesus answered and said unto him, “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” – John 14:23

This verse from the Gospel of John is a profound declaration of the intimate relationship between Jesus, His followers, and God the Father. It encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship and the promise of divine fellowship.

Heartfelt Reflection

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of love and obedience. To love Jesus is to keep His words, to live according to His teachings, and to embody His commandments in our daily lives. This love is not merely an emotion but a commitment to follow His path, even when it is challenging. It is a love that transforms us, aligning our hearts with His divine will.

The promise that follows is extraordinary. Jesus assures us that if we love Him and keep His words, both He and the Father will come to us and make their home with us. This is not a temporary visit but a permanent dwelling. It signifies a deep, abiding presence of God in our lives, offering us comfort, guidance, and peace.

Moral Thoughts

This verse calls us to examine our lives and our relationship with Jesus. Are we truly keeping His words? Are we living in a way that reflects His love and teachings? It is a reminder that our faith is not just about belief but about action. Our love for Jesus should be evident in the way we live, the choices we make, and the way we treat others.

Meditative Views

As we meditate on this verse, let us imagine the profound peace and joy of having God make His abode with us. Picture the warmth and light of His presence filling our hearts and homes. Let this image inspire us to deepen our love for Jesus and our commitment to His teachings.

Reflective Questions

  1. How can I better keep Jesus’ words in my daily life?
  2. In what ways can I show my love for Jesus through my actions?
  3. How does the promise of God’s abiding presence bring comfort and strength to me?

Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible promise of Your Presence in our lives. Help us to love Jesus with all our hearts and to keep His words faithfully. May Your Holy Spirit guide us and strengthen us in our journey of faith. Let Your presence fill our heart and home, bringing us peace, joy, and comfort. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thoughts and Scripture to Ponder

Thought: Let us strive to live in a way that reflects our love for Jesus, knowing that His presence is with us always.

 “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” – John 14:15

 

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DEAR GOD: You Lift Me Over The Fires & Bring Beauty~

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Beauty for Ashes | Prophetic Light

 

To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” 
Isaiah 61:3 (NKJV)

I began walking through the doors God was opening for me, so many years ago.  And as anyone who is a follower, or filled with unwavering faith, it makes a difference in every single scenario during our lifetime.

When we are well acquainted with the LORD’s promises, and His voice, we can endeavor to overtake and undertake, all kinds of circumstances.  That obviously pertains to both good and bad times and all of those in between times.

Life brings a series of gains, along with the losses.  In the progression of life, we lose loved ones along the way.  There are those we expect to “die before us” and it’s usually our grandparents, or parents, which hits full force in the pit of the stomach.  But those are expected, albeit sad and gut wrenching no less.

Some who are reading this at this moment have recently lost their spouses, and are finding themselves in a “new kind of reality.” Life is not the way it was any longer, and they are hurting.

Then there are the unexpected, and totally out of the realm of reality situations, like the loss of a precious child.  Or a young friend, that lost their life by a fatal error in an operating room, and yet another individual being killed by a driver that was under the influence.

All of these situations are horrific, some more shocking than others. I’m sure there are so many others, who have had their hearts slashed to ribbons. No matter the circumstances—Grief is real, it hurts, and it’s exhausting to the mind, heart, body and soul.

This morning when I woke up, and thanked God for another day, I felt that “someone visiting my site” needed to read, and hear this today.

The Spirit within led me to write this, and whomever you are right now, I pray it blessed you. I pray God’s light and comfort wash over you and bring you a semblance of peace and guidance from above.

Through so many “dark times” in which I’ve lost my grandparents, parents, my very best friend, acquaintances and the loss of our fur baby, whom we adored…There was one common denominator in all of the sad times…God had been there non-stop.

Just as I know He’s there for you right this moment. He has been with us all along. His promises are real, secure, and never ending. Especially His love.

He has given me bouquet upon bouquet of beauty,  for my clenched fists full of ashes.  And He will do the same for you.

Thank God, for the majority of individuals, life overall can be filled with joy.  However, on the same hand, it can be blistering painful.

But how we manage to get through it, is what it’s all about.

When we embrace, and realize that God is ever faithful, the same today, as He was yesterday, or tomorrow—and realize His promises are true—We can certainly get through life as He holds us up with His right hand of righteousness.

He promises us “beauty for our ashes,” as He did with Joseph.  He did so with Ruth, and for Job, and a host of others throughout the ages in the Bible and to this very day in time.

There is always an “open door” that God will guide us through.  Or an open window, to let the fresh air in, when we recognize that the LORD’s promises, and His unrelenting love are there for us all the time.  We then are able to see potential in every situation we face, because we are facing it alone. Nope, we are NOT ALONE.

Because no matter how we are suffering, He hears and sees us. He counts our tears, and He always has a plan for us…for our betterment, and for our peace.

When we know Him, it gets easier to face our adversities, no one said it’s easy, but it is so much better when the LORD is in the center of our lives, and we understand that He is in control.

 

“Father, thank You for always providing the path and the door for me to walk through, for opening a window for those moments in my life I couldn’t breathe from so much pain and grief, and for always loving me, may I always be mindful of Your grace, and Your gifts from above,  I pray for those who are in need of Your touch, and  for those who are suffering, may they find comfort in You, and seek Your face in all they do, in Jesus name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: Another Week Of Loving You~

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Mark 12:30-31 LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART Bible Quote ...

Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’  Matthew 22:37 (NKJV)

Jesus emphasized that the most important commandment would be the verse above in Matthew. That was always an important and outstanding message from Jesus, and so I began reflecting upon it more so than eve. As the week comes to a close, I started a mental picture of what I had done the past week that solidified that statement in my life overall.

  • Listening and loving Him through others, as Christ commands.

Well for one thing, I listened to several people speaking about their lives, and these people are very unhappy. Their circumstances are all so dim and exhausting in terms of their relationships, or lack thereof. It is sad, frustrating and to be honest, exhausting and draining. However, it’s done in my heart for the LORD, who says, “go and love as I have loved you” and when we love, which includes “listening” and helping others, it is part of His plan. These individuals are non-stop in their daunting misery, and “what-ifs” conversations, or murmurings. But–Jesus wants us to love. And by loving others, we are following His commandments of “loving.”  We are a daily reflection of His light, and when we do as He commands and trust in Him and follow Him by being a representative of who He is, the best we can. We are loving Him fully, and with all our heart, mind and soul. Let’s examine what some issues are that could be attributed to this verse, some we may not even be aware of.

  • Patience with others and holding back any negative responses that would otherwise escalate into a futile disagreement or worse.

Then I went on to being silent in areas that could become “challenging” to say the least, which at times can be a struggle. I am sure most of you reading this post can attest or relate to that right now, am I correct in that assumption?

Well, patience is a Characteristic of the Spirit, and virtue and gift, but it is at times overwhelmingly difficult to handle.

For example, if someone is being arbitrary or bearing an accusatory or condescending tone while engaged in some dialogue, it can be a Herculean task to keep our mouths and responses on hold. But through the spirit I did so.  Numerous times in fact. To be fair, it’s in my nature to hold back and not respond to negative and derisive speech. I guess it comes from my career in the nursing home industry. I listened to all of the patients, and loved them unconditionally, and treated them all the same irrespective of their differences in personality, or behavior.  I thank God for this gift from His hands of grace.

  • Courteous behavior displayed by being an example of Christ.

Then I thought about being courteous to others, respecting someone and honoring someone. For one thing, on the road there can be discourteous and aggressive drivers, no matter where you may live. And exercising self-control and not giving in to someone cutting you off or honking their horn, because you lingered a moment too long at the traffic light, is a mainstay with me. I am an overly courteous driver, and at times I am dismayed by the way others drive. Not to mention it can be dangerous these days. Road rage is real, and so be extra careful not to get mixed up in any of it. But…again, courtesy is part of the good spirit, and that is also a sign of loving God. Jesus was both kind and courteous. Again, a witness to Him when we behave accordingly, as He wishes us to behave as Christians.

  • Helping others, offering a smile or some other means of extending your love for your neighbors.

Our neighbor is an individual in her late 80’s and a widow. We offer her our help where we can. Taking out her garbage, picking up something in the store for her. Offering a ride to the doctor or other appointment. Bringing her some dinner or lunch. These are all ways to give willingly and with love. Jesus said by helping others, you are helping me. Another example of loving Him and following the commandments. A representation of the Spirit and who Christ is.

These examples, along with praying and writing devotionals to get His Word out are all ways to engage fully and actively in Matthew 22:37. I will try even harder this coming week, God willing. As He leads, guide, directs, and shows me the path. Which He always does. And which I am entirely grateful for.

Have you reflected on your week?

Have you shown and demonstrated that very important verse in Matthew 22:37?

Try marking it down this week, you will be pleasantly surprised at how much you are doing in response to Jesus’ words.  And remember through it all, Jesus loves you!

“Father, may I always be in accordance with Your will, Your commandments, and Your ways, may I be an example of Your Spirit that dwells inside me, may I be all that I can be every single day of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”