DEAR GOD: Please Help Those Who Are Spiritually “Dead”~

Spiritual Death | Anthony Santiago | www.anthonysantiago.org - YouTube


 

Awakening from Spiritual Deadness

 In this modern-day world of unrest, one can feel or become spiritually dead. This state of spiritual numbness can leave us feeling restless, disconnected, and yearning for a deeper connection with God. The journey from spiritual deadness to awakening is a profound and transformative experience, one that requires introspection, faith, and a willingness to embrace God’s love and guidance. To be open to the invitation of acceptance of the love and invitation from Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Savior.


Understanding Spiritual Deadness

Spiritual deadness is a state where one feels disconnected from God, lacking the vibrancy and joy that comes from a close relationship with Him. It can manifest as a sense of emptiness, purposelessness, or a feeling of being lost. This condition is often accompanied by a neglect of spiritual practices such as prayer, reading scripture, and participating in communal worship.


The Path to Awakening

Awakening from spiritual deadness involves several key steps:

  1. Acknowledgment: The first step is to recognize and admit that you are feeling spiritually dead. This requires honesty and humility. Psalm 51:17 (ESV) says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.”
  2. Repentance: Turning away from sin and seeking God’s forgiveness is crucial. Acts 3:19 (ESV) encourages us, “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.”
  3. Prayer: Engaging in heartfelt prayer is essential. Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  4. Scripture: Immersing yourself in God’s Word can reignite your spiritual life. Hebrews 4:12 (ESV) states, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.”
  5. Community: Surrounding yourself with a supportive faith community can provide encouragement and accountability. Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV) says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.”

A Story of Spiritual Awakening

Consider the story of Sarah, a woman who once felt spiritually dead. Sarah had drifted away from her faith, consumed by the demands of her career and personal life. She felt an overwhelming sense of restlessness and emptiness. One day, she decided to attend a church service after years of absence. During the service, she felt a stirring in her heart as the pastor spoke about God’s unending love and grace.

Sarah began to pray earnestly, asking God to revive her spirit. She started reading the Bible daily, finding comfort and guidance in its pages. She joined a small group at her church, where she found support and encouragement from fellow believers. Over time, Sarah’s spiritual life was rekindled. She felt a renewed sense of purpose and joy, knowing that she was walking closely with God once again.


Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

  • God’s Love is Unfailing: No matter how far we stray, God’s love remains constant. Romans 8:38-39 (ESV) assures us, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
  • The Power of Repentance: Turning back to God and seeking His forgiveness can restore our relationship with Him.
  • The Importance of Community: Being part of a faith community provides support, encouragement, and accountability.

Reflective Questions

  1. What areas of your life have you neglected that may have contributed to your spiritual deadness?
  2. How can you incorporate more prayer and scripture reading into your daily routine?
  3. Who in your life can you reach out to for spiritual support and encouragement?

Meditative Thoughts to Ponder

  • Reflect on God’s unwavering love and grace.
  • Consider the ways in which you can draw closer to God each day.
  • Meditate on the peace that comes from a restored relationship with God.

Powerful Humble Prayer

“LORD -I come before You with a humble heart, acknowledging my need for Your presence in my life. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Revive my spirit, Lord, and draw me closer to You. Help me to seek You earnestly through prayer and Your Word. Surround me with a supportive community that will encourage me in my faith journey. Thank You for Your unfailing love and grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”


Scripture to Close the Day

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (ESV)


Blessings to the Reader And Person Who Needed To Hear This Today

May God’s peace and love fill your heart. May you find rest and renewal in His presence. May your spirit be awakened, and your faith strengthened.

Blessings to you on your journey back to God.

 

“Someone needed to hear this today. Someone, or perhaps many – needed this message today. It came into my heart very strongly and with a sense of urgency. So, whoever is feeling “spiritually disconnected” or “restless” this post was for you…”

See related image detail. New Life Alliance Church main - New Life Alliance Church

 

DEAR GOD: Your Enduring Presence Comforts Me~

What Does Falling in Love With Jesus Actually Mean?

“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the worldAmen.” – Matthew 28:20  


Enduring Presence 

In the closing verses of the Gospel of Matthew, we find the resurrected Christ imparting a final commission to His disciples. This passage, often referred to as the Great Commission, encapsulates the mission of the church and the enduring Presence of Christ.

The Command to Teach

Christ’s directive to “teach all nations” is a call to discipleship that extends beyond the mere transmission of knowledge. It is an invitation to a life-transforming journey that aligns one’s actions with the teachings of Jesus.

  • What does it mean for us to observe all that Christ has commanded
  • How does this shape our daily lives?

The Assurance of Presence

Perhaps the most comforting aspect of this verse is the promise that follows the command: “I am with you alway.” In a world fraught with uncertainty and change, the constancy of Christ’s presence offers an anchor for the soul. How do we experience this presence in our lives? In what ways does it sustain us through trials and tribulations?

The Scope of the Promise

The phrase “even unto the end of the world” speaks to the timeless nature of Christ’s commitment to His followers. It is a promise that transcends generations, cultures, and epochs. As we face the challenges of our own era, how does this assurance shape our perspective on the future?

A Moral Reflection

The moral imperative embedded in this scripture is clear: to live out the teachings of Christ and to share them with others. It calls us to a higher standard of conduct, one that reflects the love and grace of the One we follow. Are we living up to this calling? Are our lives a testament to the teachings we have received?

A Reflective Close

As we ponder the depth of Christ’s commission and the promise of His presence, let us take a moment to reflect on our role in this divine narrative. Are we active participants in the mission of teaching and sharing the Gospel? Do we find solace in the promise of Christ’s enduring presence?

Unity Prayer

“Dear LORD, we are humbled by Your great commission and the promise of Your eternal presence. Grant us the wisdom to teach Your ways and the courage to live them out. May we feel Your presence guiding us at every step, and may our lives be a reflection of Your love until the end of time, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”


Let’s embrace the teachings of Christ and find comfort in His everlasting presence all the days of our lives…

DEAR GOD: Your Word Is Locked In My Heart~

His Word Our Hearts | Driving Thought

The Steadfast Love of Christ

 In the depths of despair, where hope seems but a distant flicker, the words of Psalm 69:14 resonate with a profound truth: “Rescue me from the mire, do not let me sink; deliver me from those who hate me, from the deep waters.” This cry for deliverance is not just a plea for physical salvation; it is a testament to the enduring love of Christ that reaches even the darkest corners of our existence.

When we lock the Word into our mind, heart and soul – we then can unlock things through Christ – and Him alone. His Word is a balm for our souls and a love feast for our entire lives.

Moral Compass

The moral compass guided by Christ’s love points us towards compassion, forgiveness, and unwavering kindness. It challenges us to ask ourselves: How do we emulate Christ’s love in our daily interactions? Are we quick to judge, or do we extend a hand of grace as He does?

Prayerful Introspection

“Oh, Sweet Lord- Jesus, in the midst of our trials, remind us of Your unfailing love. Help us to embody Your compassion and to seek Your wisdom in all things. May our hearts be anchored in Your grace always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflective Questions

  • How can we show Christ-like love to those who oppose us?
  • In what ways can we draw strength from Christ’s love during times of personal struggle?

Closing Moral Thoughts

As we ponder Psalm 69:14, let us remember that Christ’s love is not passive; it is active and transformative. It calls us to rise above our circumstances, to love without reservation, and to live with a heart full of grace. May this verse inspire all of us to reflect on the depth of Christ’s love and locking the Word into our hearts and how it shapes our moral journey.

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May we all meditate and ponder this verse and the significance of the boundless love that Christ offers and how it can guide us through life’s tumultuous waters – all the days of our lives here on earth!🕊️

DEAR GOD: THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE~

Christian Christmas Nativity Wallpapers - Top Free Christian Christmas ...

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For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Luke 2:11-14 (KJV)

Hallelujah! The King of kings and LORD of lords and The Savior of the World is here!!!!   Merry Christ-mas to all!

May His Light shine upon you and your family
Christ-mas live in your hearts every single day of the year. Never forget how much He loved us and LOVES us to this very day.

I thought you’d enjoy this Christmas classic that gives me chills every single time, especially the part about “The Baby Boy you delivered will soon deliver you.”

OH my GOSH!  Powerful, true and my heart beats so fast when I hear that line.

God Bless you all.

See you all back here on Tuesday.

Enjoy your holiday and be blessed~

DEAR GOD: Shine Your Light~

Isaiah 60:1 KJV- Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.

 

LORD, shine Your light from high above in the world that seems to be under darkness as of late. Help those in anguish, and those in ill health, help those trapped in situations that seem hopeless, help those who are experiencing loss of a loved one, or those who are trapped in a bad marriage, or those who are tempted to ignore God’s Word and commandments, help those who haven’t yet come to You, or those who have turned their backs on You, help these individuals, help those who are addicted by something in their lives that are keeping them from experiencing life through You and Your Word, help those who go against Your Word, and help the World that is in such disarray my LORD, only YOU can change things with a wave of Your hand, or by Your Word, all those reading this right now, may their prayers be heard, and if it is Your will, may it be done, in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

I felt it in my heart, God laid it upon me to write that prayer, someone out there is in need of prayers this very moment, so turn to the One who can help You, never give up, or lose faith, cause God’s timing and Will is perfect. Hang in there, hold on, and know that He hears You, and is there with You.

God is like oxygen. You can’t see it, but we NEED IT TO BREATHE. So, breathe!  Take in the LORD, follow Him and His Word, and know that He will never leave or forsake You.

Accept Him as LORD and Savior. Jesus said, “no one goes to the Father, but through Me”(John 14:6) — He also says, “Whatever you ask in my name to the Father, it shall be done” (John 14:13) Those two verses meditate upon them, realize the depth of what that means, and accept Him as LORD.

  • Jesus is LORD, and LORD above all.
  • Praise His name, Amen!

“Father, may I do all I can to please You, may I always walk in obedience to You, may I turn from all temptations, and may I share You Word and be Your servant all the days of my life, and I pray for all those reading this message, I pray for all issues to be resolved in their lives, and that they are obedient to You and Your Son, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

John 8:12 KJV- Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

 

Ephesians 5:8- KJV For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

 

John 3:16 KJV -For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

DEAR GOD: You Are the Keeper of My Soul~

 

I observed my niece playing with her toys on the floor in her living room. She methodically placed her building blocks one on top of the other. She seemed to really enjoy the red ones the most. As the pile got higher and higher, she became more excited. Until the last block she placed atop of the huge pile.  I knew it was sure to happen and within seconds she was crying. “All come down!” She cried as her mom assured her; she could build it again. That seemed to stifle the tears somewhat. And within seconds a chocolate chip cookie and milk seemed to erase the entire scenario from her little innocent mind.

That got me to thinking about our souls. The blocks were like the weight of the world, all its troubles piling atop one another. Issues, troubles, finances, division, political discourse, so on and so forth. Until one final piece crumbles it to the ground. That could be our soul!

Jesus very succinctly gives us a warning in Mark 8:36. He is telling us what good to gain the world if we lose our soul in the process? How important is the things of this world that would push our souls to the brink of eradication?

Listen, of course we need to be aware of current events. Jesus warned His disciples as he sent them out into the world in Matthew 10:16,Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. 

The Lord Jesus used the dove as a model for harmlessness and innocence, and the serpent for wisdom and cunning. So, we are to utilize the two in a way that is fitting of a Christian and follower of Christ. We are to be cautious as we venture into the world and be forewarned at all times, remembering the words of Christ.

How can we do this?

  1. Take note of the world events, but don’t get pulled into them in an ungodly fashion. ((Colossians 2:8)
  2. Be aware that evil does exist in the world but remember that Christ gives us authority in His name to overcome it. ((Mark 16:18)
  3. Be an example of His light to those you encounter, smile, help, and be attentive to other’s needs. (Matthew 5:16)
  4. Stay in the Word, and always have your Gospel Armor in place (Ephesians 6)
  5. Don’t fear those who can kill your flesh, but rather those who can “kill your soul.” (Matthew 10:28)

 

Number five on the above list is crucial to your spiritual growth and roots in Christ. The only One we answer to is our LORD. The only One we bow down to is to the Highest Authority in the Universe, our LORD and Savior, King of kings.

Sure, we are subject to “civil law” and “rules” in which societal norms are vitally important to exist. But make no mistake, we are under the control of the Highest Royal God, who is at the helm 24/7!

It is Him and only He that has our soul in His hands.

We have a duty as citizens to obey the rules of the land, but we have a full-blown allegiance to acquiesce to all of what God commands.

So, remembering my nieces “tower” that fell from all that weight. There is only so much world you can take in before it tries to snatch up your soul. But as faithful followers, nothing could ever take us from the love of Christ. Nothing!

Romans 8:39 -Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

“Father my LORD, thank You for Your brilliant light, love and guidance, may I always be aware that we are dealing with daily spiritual warfare in the world, may my spirit always be in step with Your word in all I do and encounter, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”