Happy New Year and welcome one and all to 2022! It is here, and we must focus on what is to come in this day, not worrying about tomorrow, but on what we can do today that is pleasing to God and people. Whether we know them or not, everyone benefits from a smile, a kind greeting, an attentive ear, and love. We never know what the other person is going through and a welcoming presence can be an encouragement. God works through His children, so keep your eyes on the Lord and others, pray consistently to be a blessing, and receive divine opportunities with an open heart. I pray in 2022 for more good intentions, tenderness, respect, and gratitude.
My 2021 word of the year was “spiritual disciplines.” It has been my prayer that as the year rolled forth, I would be discipled in those things that would further my wisdom and understanding of the Holy Scriptures as well as deepened in my knowledge of God. I give all glory, praise, and thanks to our heavenly Father, for He certainly hears our prayers and answers!
There is always room for improvement and there is much more of Him that I seek, but this past year has been a year of growth and for this I am grateful. I pray you have also been blessed in 2021; I would love to hear what God has done in your life!!
Spiritual Disciplines for 2021
Sit with God daily, seek Christ’s knowledge, mediatate on the Word of God and consistently practice God’s presence (Jan. 2021).
Always ask God before making any decisions; wait upon the LORD before moving.
Moderation in all things, govern and discipline yourself by reason, and listen to the Holy Spirit.
Guard your heart and mind.
Choose freedom; own and exercise your position in Jesus Christ.
Build an altar to God and tear down the enemy altar which consists of my focus on negative thoughts and emotions. Replace deception with pure and lovely thoughts. Praise and thank the LORD always; His mercy and steadfast love endures forever.
Facts not feelings. Ask yourself, “Is this favored and agreeable to God and does it contribute to the betterment of people? Will this conversation or action enhance growth for all? Does it give glory to Jesus?”
Read your journal at the end of the day. Give God thanks for the day. Read, remind, and commit God’s wisdom into your mind and heart. Charles Stanley says that what you take in before sleep, you will take with you when you sleep. (Feb. 28, 2021)
At least once a week, take stock before God. Are you keeping your life up to His standards? Your priority should be God’s approval. Does your ambition strive for people or God? (March 17, 2021)
Trust God with every single thing. (March 22, 2021).
Persevere in faith. Look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others (Phil. 2:4). Consider the concerns and needs of others first before thinking of yourself. Cultivate deep love for God and neighbor. (April 3, 2021).
Stay away from those things that give you angst. Find your peace in God by prayer and quiet mediatation as well as in reading Scripture. Matthew 6:6, “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
Always pray (June 21, 2021, First Baptist Atlanta word of the year).
Stay in the Light! The Spirit of God so strongly urges us to stay steadfastly in the Light (John 3:19-21)
Rebuke the I. Life is not about I, it is about God and people (September 7, 2021).
Walk in obedience, by the direction of the Holy Spirit.
Confess and repent, confess and repent, confess and repent. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way” (Psalm 139:23,24, NASB). “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10, NASB) (October 2021).
Put on the Armor of God so that when evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground…stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace….take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:10-18, NIV). Your struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12) (Dec. 2021).
Lastly, 2022 word of the year is “service.”
Yes, agreed, this is a significant list and to follow each one does take spiritual discipline. It cannot be done in human strength.
The Bible tells us, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you (John 14:15-16, ESV).
Friends, may the LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace (Numbers 6:24-26).
“If one ventures a word with you, will you become impatient? But who can refrain from speaking? Behold you have admonished many, And you have strengthened weak hands. Your words have helped the tottering to stand, And you have strengthened feeble knees. But now it has come to you, and you are impatient; It touches you, and you are dismayed. Is not your fear of God your confidence, And the integrity of your ways your hope?”
Job 5:6-7 (NASB)
“For affliction does not come from the dust, Nor does trouble sprout from the ground, For man is born for trouble, As sparks fly upward.”
Solid Joys: “The Power of a Superior Promise” (John Piper).
“Where do we find true freedom…I shall walk in freedom, for I have sought your
precepts (Psalm 119:45, John Piper translates) …The word frees us from smallness of mind.”
1 Kings 4:29 (ESV)
“And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore…
1 Kings 3:7,9 (ESV)
“…although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in…Give your servant therefore an understanding mind…that I may discern between good and evil…”
John Piper (as referenced above)
“The word frees us from threatening confinements.”
Jeremiah 1:6-8 (ESV)
“…Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, I am only a youth”; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD.” Then the LORD put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the LORD said to me, “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.”
Dr. Anthony George (paraphrased): “God takes responsibility for my life…God is with me” (First Baptist Atlanta).
John MacArthur: “Where I go, Christ goes!”
Psalm 18:16-19 (ESV)
“He sent from on high, he took me; he drew me out of many waters. He rescued me from my strong enemy and from those who hated me, for they were too mighty for me. They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the LORD was my support.
He brought me out into a broad place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.”
John 8:31-32 (ESV)
“…if you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:31 (ESV, Study Note)
“To abide in Jesus’ word means to continue believing what Jesus has said and walking in obedience to him. This verse shows that continuing to trust Jesus and obey Him is one test of who are truly His disciples.”
John 8:32 (ESV, Study Note)
“Verse 31 shows that Jesus is only talking about one way to know the truth and that is by continuing to believe and obey His word. Set you free means free from the guilt and enslaving power of sinful patterns of conduct.”
John 8:34 (ESV, Study Note)
“A slave to sin (Romans 6:16; 1 Corinthians 7:21) means unable to escape from sinful patterns of conduct without the help of Jesus to set a person free.”
John 8:36 (ESV, Study Note)
“Sets you free from both the guilt and the life controlling power of sin…”
John 8:32 (John MacArthur Study Bible, Note)
“Real disciples are both learners (the basic meaning of the word) and faithful followers.”
John 8:34 (John MacArthur Study Bible, Note)
“The ultimate bondage is not political or economic enslavement, but spiritual bondage to sin and rebellion against God.”
John 8:35-36 (John MacArthur Study Bible, Note)
“…Christ Himself, who sets the slaves free from sin. Those whom Jesus Christ liberates from the tyranny of sin and the bondage of legalism are really free (Romans 8:2; Galatians 5:1).”
John Piper (as referenced above): “Freedom for holiness.”
2 Peter 1:3-11 (ESV)
Confirm Your Calling and Election
“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so near-sighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities, you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
1 Peter 1:4 (ESV, Study Note)
“At conversion, Christians are delivered from the corruption of this world, which is rooted in sinful desire.”
I am thankful for this day and all its divine opportunities!
I am thankful I am not alone. I am perfectly content, peaceful, full of God, and praying for more.
Never put limits on God. All things are possible with Him (Matthew 19:26, ESV).
I am thankful for my family and friends who shower me with encouragement, support, and love every day.
I am thankful for my relationship with Jesus Christ: His death, burial, and resurrection.
I am thankful that I am seated in the heavenly places with Him (Eph. 2:6).
I am thankful for the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) and for the wisdom and understanding He gives me throughout His pages.
I am thankful for the Holy Spirit: His guidance, protection, growth, power, and for His intercessory prayers and I pray for a constant filling of His Holy Presence so that I am bursting forth with the Fruit of the Spirit so that I can bring honor, praise, and Glory to His Holy Name, for all to see and have.
I am supernaturally equipped, prepared, and empowered to successfully serve God and people. “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
I am thankful that I am blessed to do this for and with God, not for reward, but because of my love for Him; His Will, Plan, and Purpose! I possess great relief in knowing that it is God who is Sovereign! Elohim: God of gods and Lord of lords, Creator and Sustainer, Judge, Majesty, Awesome, Mighty, and Great (Deuteronomy 10:17)!
I am thankful for the blood of Jesus: my Redemption, Salvation, Sanctification, Righteousness, and Eternal Glory.
I am thankful, that one day, I will be to the likeness of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I am thankful for healing, discernment, freedom, and spiritual growth.
I am thankful that I am no longer captured by my own self needs but rather captured by God, for His use in this world.
I am thankful God hears my prayers and He answers from His Holy Hill (Psalm 99:9).
I am blessed beyond measure and there is nothing I need more than Jesus. He supplies endlessly all that I need.
“But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:33-34).
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me” (Psalm 51:10-11).
LORD, help me understand Scripture, open my mind and heart to your Holy Wisdom, bless me with the vision to comprehend so that I may be a blessing to all those whom you put before me. Let all see how alive and well you are in this world by shining your light in and through me. Soli Deo Gloria!!
Father, what do you have to say to me today?
As I sit in my new quiet space, tell me the secret thoughts of your heart. Is that even possible? I surely am praying for this type of intimacy! I sit in worship, praise, prayer, and thanksgiving, waiting patiently on your next move.
My soul is joyful, peaceful, and lovely because of you. I am, indeed, brand-new!! Your Almighty Hand has and is doing wonderful works in my heart. I shall not be shaken because I am firmly planted on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:24-27). This Holy Ground is where miracles take place. It is only Your love that is powerful, captivating, intoxicating, and lasting unlike the things in this world.
Thank you, LORD, you are “boundless, infinite, self-existent and absolute; everything else is contingent and relative. There is nothing very big and nothing very wise and nothing very wonderful. It’s all relatively so. It is only God who knows no degrees” (A.W. Tozer, The Attributes of God: A Journey Into the Father’s Heart, Volume 1).
And this all started and came to be by your love, mercy, and grace and my prayer is for this entire world to seek, know, and worship you so that this world would be peaceful and only existent because on your true love.
Thank you, Father, for the taste of Heaven that I do receive as I meet with you throughout the day, I peer through spiritual lenses as I go about my daily tasks, and the difference you make is invaluable. I look forward to more and more of You!
I write this all in the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen!!
I Have Calmed and Quieted My Soul (A Song Of Ascents Of David: Psalm 131, ESV)
O LORD, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.
O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time forth and forever- more.
Praise be to God, “this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come” (Hebrews 13:14, NLT). One day we will see our Lord and Savior, “for we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body whether good or evil” (2 Corinthians 5:10, ESV).
Dear Heavenly Father,
We praise you and thank you for your mercy and grace, your faithful pursuit of us, your Son Jesus Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection. Thank you for the Holy Spirit, our Helper, our Guide, Protector, Intercessory Prayer Warrior and so much more. How good and kind you are! We are well taken care of, our needs met in abundance, and victorious by the blood of Jesus! Thank you!!
Oh, Father, I pray this morning, for continued transformation in the hearts of humanity! Help us serve others as Jesus did, without conditions, judgement, mockery, or greed. He genuinely and generously gave to those around Him, thinking of the lives before Him before thinking of Himself, concerned with their lack and pleased to provide according to the Father’s will. Let all come together and worship you, fill us till overflowing with the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), and empower us to do your good works for your glory and honor (Matthew 5:16). Calm and quiet our souls and accomplish all you have set out to do! In Jesus’ Name, I pray,
It is has been awhile since I have posted and I feel really impressed upon to share this with you so by the leading of the Holy Spirit, I write in obedience to God’s will and I thank Him for His pursuit, care, love, attention and especially for His Son Jesus Christ…God bless you immeasurably you as read…may God fill you till overflowing with wisdom, understanding, and deeper knowledge of Him…
“Set me as a seal upon thine heart Thou Love more strong than death That I may feel through every part Thy burning, fiery breath. And then like wax held in the flame, May take the imprint of thy Name.
Set me a seal upon thine arm, Thou Love that burst the grave, Thy coals of fire can never harm, But only purge and save. Thou jealous Love, thou burning Flame, Oh, burn out all unlike thy Name.
The floods can never drown thy Love, Nor weaken thy desire, The rains may deluge from above But never quench thy fire. Make soft my heart in thy strong flame, To take the imprint of Thy Name.
I am okay! The LORD is clearing out the deepest wounds. Let Him do it! Accept what comes up and pray to God for healing. Be kind to yourself in the process. God is taking good care of you!
I trust you, Jesus!
Daniel 3:8-30 The Fiery Furnace (what is written is what the Holy Spirit highlighted in my heart; I encourage you to open your Bible and read the entire passage. I pray you are strengthened and encouraged!)
“Oh king live forever [king Nebuchadnezzar] you O’ king have made a decree that every man who hears the sound of the horn…shall fall down and worship the golden image and whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast into a burning fiery furnace…Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the men, O king, pay no attention to you, they do not serve your gods or worship the golden image you have set up…if you do not worship you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands…we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king…but if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”
The golden image is a distraction from God, put in place by the enemy, giving glory to the enemy which takes our eyes off of God, not trusting that God has the final say. God is victory in this world, in heaven, in all things. To take our eyes off the “golden image: keeps them focused on God’s victory…Jesus and the cross, Redemption! The men pay no attention to the king! We are to pay no attention to the enemy! God will always be God and His Truth will always be Truth!
This is the issue—we are tempted, drawn to self and complaints— choose Kingdom thoughts, the Trinity, the Victory—these glorious thoughts of God fade out due to distraction. Always be praising and thanking God. Do not pay attention to the “golden image.” it may appear pretty and mesmerizing, you may think you are rendered powerless, but do not pay attention, give your attention to God, what He has done, who He is, and praise!
The enemy is ruler of this world. He prowls around looking for those whom he can devour, children of God, he cannot. He play in the mind and he surely does. He stuffs people down into pits of despair in ignorance and deceit, anxiety, and fear. Paralyzes them so they are distracted, kept busy in evil tangles, taken in thought from the Almighty One but those who meditate on God’s word will be strengthened and will not be touched, will not be burned!
As the “the golden image” is refused, the enemy turns up the heat…binds people in all sorts of distress: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual—brings fear and panic…disassembles trust and belief in God. He aims to take from God, His glory and honor that only God is worthy of.
“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego fell bound into the burning fiery furnace.”
Unbelievers are thrown into the pit of hell, bound in unbelief, bound by their sin nature, bound in the refusal to bow down to God and worship, bound by pride, arrogance, rebellion, dysfunction, denial, bound by Satan’s lies.
We are all headed to the fiery furnace from birth—our destination in life is the pit of hell. We are all bound in our sin, bound to the sins of this world, handed down from generation to generation—tempted and tried, enticed to sin, turned from God, and fallen.
“King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste”
‘Rose up in haste’…it is by the Lord’s power in His children, His light and love, that others experience Him. He is revealed in this world by His children. It is through us that others experience Him, they see Him because of His work in and through us. As they see God, they too have the choice to ‘rise up’ and worship Him. Look around, God is everywhere….creation, the Bible (the inspired Word of God) the Ten Commandments, Christians who are ambassadors for God…God is everywhere. A general revelation to all. By faith, choose to see Him. Do not turn your head and rationalize Him away. He is here, His is present, and He is who He says He is. I can testify to this!! I am caused to lean on God, He is everywhere!!
“…did we not cast three men bound into the fire…they answered, ‘true O king’…but I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire and they are not hurt and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.”
Saved by the blood of Jesus—God’s grace and our faith! We are unbound from the enemy’s grip, saved, free from the bondage of sin and death, by God’s mercy, grace, and love. His faithfulness to His promise! We walk this world surrounded by fire here and after: trials and hardships, death and loss, pandemics and terror, unfair leaders, greed, and selfishness and so much more. This is the fire of Satan!
But we, believers in the Lord, Jesus Christ, are not burned. His Presence is with us, in us, and we overcome by His power that lives within us, believers, worshippers, faithful, obedient, seekers,…lovers of God…we shall not be burned!
“Nebuchadnezzar came near the fiery furnace and declared…servants of the Most High God, come out and come here.”
Because Nebuchadnezzar came near to the fire…he made the choice to come near and look and because of his decision, he saw the Presence of God, Hallelujah! There before him were the walking testimony of the three. He declared that God is Most High! He believed!
“[All those] gathered together saw that the fire had not had the power over the bodies of those men.”
“Those” being satraps, prefects, governors, and the King’s counselors. The enemy does not have power over our bodies. It is God who has the power! Whether we live or die, God will always have the power!
No matter who we are, how much worldly influence we have, our accomplishments and leadership…God’s power will be seen by all, from the elite to the lowly. Every single one will stand face to face with Almighty God, He will be seen as Most High and all will bow down and worship Him.
“Therefore God has highly exalted him [Jesus] and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee would bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-10, ESV).
*****
I wrote this just as I was told to do. Close your eyes to the grammar and may God open your eyes to Truth, to the things that He has for you as you read this revelation.
God goes way beyond emotions, wounds, and dysfunction. He is bigger than feelings. He has accomplished…His promise fulfilled. Jesus Christ, the Lord and Savior of the world. God saw the problem in humanity, our sin and He sent the remedy. Those who believe and receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, confess their sins, believe He is raised from the dead by the power of Almighty God…will be saved. We are blood-bought children of God. No amount of change, human nor worldly, will alter this promise. Our destination is not a fiery furnace but everlasting life with our Heavenly Father! As we wait for our call to come home, our eternal home, we are given the privilege to sit at the feet of Jesus, learn and grow, and serve. God is holding our hands, He sustains our spiritual life as well as all areas of our entire being. He is alive and well in our hearts and He is at work completing the work He has begun in us. (Please see the page “I AM” for a Salvation Prayer.)
Psalm 73:23-26 (ESV)
“Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire beside you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For behold, those who are far from you shall perish; you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you. But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.”
*****
Please keep in mind that I share with you what I feel led to share! I am simply a follower of Jesus Christ, not a preacher or a highly educated theologian. I am just a girl, created by God’s hand, who loves Jesus and the Bible, and it gives me great joy to write about my personal time with my Savior. He fills my heart, gives me peace and the intimacy that I so crave and need, and I am in great faith that as you read, Jesus will draw you near and speak words of love and truth into your heart! May He set your heart on fire for Him and the Bible and may you walk each day, every second of the day, thanking and praising Him. God’s grace be with you!
You caused the attachment to YOU! Through our hardships, you have used each for your good, your thoughts are of peace, not evil, to give a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11, NKJV). You have taken our difficulty and you have handled and resolved with special care and love, for we are YOUR workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which YOU prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).
What does the Bible tell us about your plan? You have rescued, redeemed, and restored your people. We are no longer living in the flesh but walking in the Spirit. We praise you, Almighty God, for we are reconciled back to our Heavenly Father, no longer slave to sin Romans (6:6), but children of God (John 1:12). Glory to each upon their last breath on this earth. We are destined to stand before you, all those who believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ, are complete, glorified, and perfect; not by our doing but all by yours! Thank you, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit for the work you have done!
Yes, along the way to our eternal reward, our Heavenly Prize awaits (Philippians 3:14, NLT), the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14, NKJV), we will struggle because this is the way to GLORY! In our trials, we are refined, to the likeness of Jesus! It is by your holy, gracious, loving, kind, good, and faithful hand that we are made new. New creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)!
What do we do as we wait upon you, while we are here in these bodies, walking this world, and navigating daily through life’s sorrows and joys? We are to always be praising, seeking, loving, and growing by spending time in your inspired Word, meditating on the Truths you share with us, practicing in each one in all that we do, praying, constant fellowship with you throughout each day, and service to you and to all those you put before us: family, friends, and strangers. We are to consistently share your love with all we meet, be kind and compassionate to all people, reflecting your LIGHT, accepting, and pleasing so that you are revealed in this world, so that all will come to know of Jesus Christ, so none should perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Our expectations can be grandiose; we desire to do great things in honor of you. We must be aware that our extremely limited human understanding may mislead us into false arenas. We may aim at the wrong targets, strive to accomplish, and carry out what we think to be good. We will find ourselves off-putting and wrong by your gracious correction. Our ill-intentions can cause grief and disappointment, but you are always right there with us, guiding us in the way we should go (Psalm 32:8), not in the way that we think we should go. Your direction is natural, peaceful, and easy. Our way is forced, uncomfortable, aggravating, and confined. You know the care needed to bring us back into your will. How wonderful you are!
You reveal where we have gone astray and you shed your wisdom and understanding into the decision so we are able to comprehend where we are and how we arrived, leading us into confession and repentance. We begin anew with great faith, by the Truth of your Word, that we are forgiven (Ephesians 4:32) and our offenses forgotten (Hebrews 8:12). All past, present, and future sins paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 10:10-14, NKJV), our substitute. The wrath we so deserve was placed upon Christ so that we can live free of sin and death. Thank you!
Oh, Father, may all receive the gift of Jesus Christ, saved by the death, burial, and resurrection of God the Son. It is by your grace and our faith (Ephesians 2:8-9) that we are spared from an eternal life of terror, eternally separated from you. No going back! The decision is made here on this earth and it is carried forth when we meet with you. We cannot change our minds when our physical bodies give out and quit. It will be too late!
Psalm 119:49-50 (NKJV)
“Remember your word to Your servant, upon which you have caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, for your word has given me life.”
Father, it is only you who puts eternal hope in the human heart. We do not put it there and in my experience, I did not even ask for this kind of hope because I did not realize it existed. I was blind to the fact that your kind of hope is so full of promise and strength, there is no fear of destroying divine hope. It cannot be manipulated by human hands nor by the powers of hell; it is immovable. It is done, available, and reachable. I did not know this hope at all. I have never had this kind of hope, ever, and if I did, it certainly was not of the same caliber. Like opening a birthday present, hopeful of the contents, but as soon as the gift was opened, and time was spent in its company, the hope went, the excitement no longer available, gone! Your hope never grows familiar, routine, worn out, and old. It never leaves us searching for another kind of hope. The hope you give is constant, driving, and life-changing. We thrive in your hope! It sits in our heart, reigning over all that comes against it. It is Jesus Christ. He is our only hope, and He is not going anywhere!! Praise God!
Romans 8:16-19 from the Matthew Henry App:
“As the accomplishments of the saints’ present hopes and expectations: As the saints are suffering for it, so they are waiting for it. Heaven is therefore sure for God by his Spirit would not raise and encourage those hopes only to defeat and disappoint them. He will establish that word unto his servants on which he has caused them to hope (Psalm 119:49), and heaven is therefore sweet for, if hope deferred makes the heart sick, surely when the desire comes it will be a tree of life, Proverbs 13:12. Now he observes an expectation of this glory…”
“The kingdom of God is within you and will be so to eternity.”
“The sufferings are small and short and concern the body only, but the glory is rich and great, and concerns the soul, and it’s eternal.”
“There is nothing like a believing view of glory which shall be revealed to support and bear up the spirit under all the suffering of this present time.
Brothers and sisters in Christ, let us praise the LORD! Oh, let us give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever” (Psalm 106:1, NKJV)!
Why would God not put to His use all those who trust and have faith in His Majesty, those with believing and willing hearts, those who call out to Him in every circumstance in their life, those whose very life depends on Him. Is that not what the children of God pray for? We pray to Him, for Him, and with Him. We pray for Spirit-filled and Spirit-controlled lives so that we can become of one heart, a common interest in the betterment of people, loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). Loving and forgiving always! We pray to become to the likeness of Jesus. We, through Providence, become an outpouring of God’s love wherever we go, rivers of living water (John 7:38) for all to enjoy. The excitement, elation, and thanksgiving in a believer’s heart are extraordinary. There is no end! There are no spaces in our hearts that cannot be filled by God. All we are told to do is ask and it will be given (Matthew 7:7)!
The divine drive into God’s will is natural and effortless, not anything of our own doing. It is our force and manipulations that bring on grief and strife. It is through faithful children of God that His glory is continuously revealed to others and to this world. We bring in the light of God! We reap His Holy gifts of love, we are granted a closeness with Him; He is reliable and trustworthy in managing all we bring to Him. He has the answers! He never leaves us empty-handed, a personal relationship with Almighty God that falls short of nothing, for He is perfection. He knows our every need, every single detail of our lives: yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He knows who will receive His Son, Jesus Christ, and those who choose not to. He knows it all! We cannot hide anything from our Heavenly Father! He will reveal and bring to the surface anything that offends Him, and it is in correction, that one learns of His existence. We may think we are fooling Him, we may claim ignorance, and lack but the time will come when all realizes that He is indeed who He says He is (Matthew 16:15-16)!!
Our Heavenly Father sees all of us, the inside and the out (1 Samuel 16:7). He created us for a specific purpose, and we are all equipped, fearfully and wonderfully (139:14) made. He loves every inch of us despite what others say or what we say about ourselves. We are His masterpiece created anew in Christ Jesus so that we can do the things God planned for us long ago (Ephesians 2:10). He loves us, even when we do not love ourselves.
This leads me to a commercial that I recently watched. The product was promoting invisible braces. I did not pay much attention at first but as the man in the commercial began to speak, the Holy spirit tuned me in to his conversation and put a spiritual spin on it.
The fellow was seeking help from the invisible braces. He had a gap between his front teeth. He was pleased to find a non-invasive treatment and one that is somewhat undetectable by others. I am immediately shown the insecurity this man feels in his appearance. I can identify!
That gap was not debilitating, it did not prevent him from eating and breaking down food as God created teeth to do. I imagine they worked just fine but someone or something along the course of his life pointed out that he had this gap; there is a flaw in his appearance and as this lie made its way into his mind, he began to ponder on it, and eventually, it manifested into an inadequacy and a weakness in him because he was seeking treatment. He was looking for something to close the gap so that he would be found “normal” amongst the crowd, accepted and well-liked, maybe even attractive to the ladies. He was, indeed, normal but that negative comment enlightened him to a false perception of himself. What a man thinketh in his heart, so he is (Proverbs 23:7) .
Just think what this false sense of self is doing to the rest of his life. He thinks there is something wrong with him, he must get help and fix his appearance so the worry and concern will leave him alone. When this gap is closed, then he will be happy!
How many times have I said this? Way too many to count!! If we look to others for comfort and wholeness, we will never find it. People come and go in our life and it is sad that this happens, but it is proof that people are not long-lasting. It is only God who walks faithfully with us now and who walks faithfully with us when it is time to leave this earth.
If someone or something had not mentioned his gap, he would not be concerned about his God-designed characteristic in his teeth. Instead of focusing on what he is not, according to the world’s standards, he could focus instead on other important matters such as his family, friends, personal hobbies, volunteer opportunities, higher education, and God. How much time, energy, and money do we divvy out each day to those things that are frivolous and fruitless?
I am pulled from the commercial and into inner thoughts regarding my own life. How many times throughout the course of my life has someone pointed out something to me: my appearance, my actions, the things I say, and even my intelligence. It was not until someone or something pulled at me that this false perception of myself took flight and eventually settled into my mind and then into my heart.
Imperfections come from outside sources! We measure ourselves with the world and in doing this, we recreate ourselves in the hopes of gaining peace of mind and happiness. It is when we come to know God on a deeper level that we begin to accept and love who we are because we know that this (me and you) are God’s creation. God is who matters.
I lived in the belief of what others have said about me. There are days that I still do, to some extent, but I know the Lord is working this lie out of me because as I sit here and write, I feel an inner strength that only comes from God. He is confirming that I am His masterpiece and so are you!! My heart is glad and smiling! Going all the way back to childhood, I believed I was inferior and inadequate because of what someone told me. I believed that everyone else was better than me; I would never measure up.
I have spent much time, energy, and money in renovating myself and not one thing has brought me the joy and peace that God brings me each day that I surrender myself to Him. I have wasted a good portion of my life living off emotion and the acceptance of others. I am exhausted with the constant shaping of myself into what others ask or expect of me instead of what God asks and expects of me. I do not know the person God has created me to be. This makes me incredibly sad! Not a sadness like a deep, dark depression, just a sadness that it took so long to uncover Racinda. I am finally able to see a piece of God’s masterpiece. I can now see a part of me that God sees and OH BOY did that declaration come right on out of my mouth!!! I feel the Holy Spirit all over me as if He is applauding the work He has done in me and not only that but this masterpiece has just finally realized how loved she is by her Heavenly Father: He likes what He sees and so do I…Hallelujah!! He is good!!
Our worth is not in looks, intelligence, our position in life, the money we have in the bank, our jobs, or our many accomplishments. Our worth comes from God! Our worth comes from the blood of Jesus, His resurrection, it is the fulfillment of Jesus Christ that believers in Him, gain worth. Wow does that ever elevate a lowly perspective! “Kingdom Thoughts,” as my Prayer 101 leader told me and the rest of the class many years ago! Think higher and put no limits on God!
God sees our heart, not our outward appearance! He is not concerned about “gaps.” What He is concerned about it is reconciling each one of us back to Him. He is concerned about our righteousness so we can live with Him in this world as well as after we leave this world. He is concerned about our hearts! Are they seeking Him or seeking other things without regard to His Sovereignty? We are all sinful in nature, but it is only by the belief in His Son, Jesus Christ, that we are forgiven and made new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Without Jesus, we will remain as we are, unchanged and sentenced to death.
The Holy Spirit shared some insight with me yesterday and I have been meditating on it and sharing it as I feel led. The experiences we go through in life can be quite challenging. I found myself reflecting on past Bible studies and the prayer team at the church. Those moments left me feeling extremely foolish in the things I said and in the way I acted. In God’s grace, He reminded me that what He does in our lives and in this world may not make any sense to the human mind, but it makes perfect sense to Him, and that is what matters. In hearing this, I now have a higher view of the moments where I tripped over myself and fell. It is good to be confirmed in the fact that God is in control and it is His responsibility to shape us as He sees fit. It is all for His glory so that all the world can come to know Him.
God’s goal is not to give us everything that we ask Him for. He blesses according to His riches and glory (Philippians 4:19)! He is first in all things! The Bible tells us and shows us a loving God pursuing humanity! It tells of God’s plan which is to send His Son, God the Son, Jesus Christ into the world to die for the sins (1 John 2:2) of the world so that all may be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), reconciled back to right standing with Almighty God. It is God who gives and takes away (Job 1:21) and He does this so that hearts will be changed so that out of these transformed hearts, His glory will be seen by all, so that we, as His children, can live this life empowered by the Holy Spirit to do the things He instructs us to do. Believers live in God’s peace and joy, His spiritual blessings, and favor. We walk with Him through every circumstance in life, we are never alone! We may feel alone at times, but we are not! If we have received Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit lives in us (1 John 4:13), and nothing will separate us from His love (Romans 8:39). He is going nowhere, ever!!
We are privileged and blessed to be part of His restoration plan. God loves us just as we are, He is accepting, kind, and welcoming always! No matter our condition, He is there with open arms and He desires to share life with us. We are created for relationships, we thrive when connecting with others who are encouraging and supportive, and we were also created to connect with God, to have a personal relationship with God.
He is at work in every heart and if we let Him, He will take from us our heart of stone and give us a heart of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26). One that loves Him and others. Hearts that seek His love and will and bends to all that He has to say. We share His glory with the world. He pours into us His goodness and we pour His goodness into others. We enjoy, daily, His spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3). We have peace that is not of this world (John 14:27) and joy that outlasts all things! We have been offered Jesus Christ, He is our free gift (Ephesians 2:8) to a personal God, who hears our every request!!
He is always with us, always attentive, always loving, and always forgiving!
Who told you, you weren’t enough!!
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If you would like to receive Jesus Christ as your personal Savior repeat the following prayer with all your heart:
Heavenly Father, I want to have a personal relationship with Jesus. I confess Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I believe He shed His blood and He died for me. I believe You raised Him from the dead and He is seated with you in heaven. I want to begin a new life walking in victory through faith in Jesus. Send your spirit Lord to dwell in me counseling and guiding me in truth. Thank you for providing the way to you through your son Jesus. Thank you for the forgiveness of my sins and providing eternal life with you through faith and trust in Jesus. I receive it now by faith. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.
You are now part of God’s family! Once you’ve asked Him into your heart, He doesn’t leave! You are sealed and saved forever!
Find a Bible-based church to attend weekly. Be sure to read your Bible and talk to God daily. He will direct your next steps!
Congratulations and welcome! I would be delighted to hear your story. I am available if you should ever need prayer or a Christian sister to talk to. You can reach me through the contact form. God Bless you!!
This Salvation Prayer comes from The Prayer and Crisis Referral Network. This is a 24 hour prayer and crisis line. You can reach them by phone or text at (877) 800 7729. There is always someone available to speak and pray with you and it is anonymous.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
Dear Almighty God!
I lift all those up to you who greet this day in pain and illness, sorrow, loss, grief, confusion, and stress. Those who are lonely, uncertain, unsteady, anxious, and fearful: the unsaved. This is not how you intend us to live. This is not the life that Jesus Christ came to give to the world. This is not the gift that Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection freely gives each one of us. The Bible tells us, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36)!
Father, draw each one burdened and laid low by the fiery darts of the enemy, close to you. Whisper affirmations of unconditional and inseparable words of love into their heart. Give them total reassurance that you are with them, wherever they go (Joshua 1:9). You know every detail of their trial and you will not allow them to stand alone. Your love for your children compels your mighty hand of mercy and grace to prevail in all things. Not one is without your guidance and protection. Father, bring to their remembrance your Word of Truth, past blessings where you have announced yourself in their lives and brought victory into a situation where they only saw defeat and failure. You are our only hope, and we call on you this morning to restore hope into the hearts of those who see none.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging…The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress (Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11).
Praise be to you, LORD, the God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name (1 Chronicles 29:11-13).
Hallelujah!
Father, bless each one with peace, love, joy, comfort, healing, a great knowledge of you, and an undeniable, uncontainable, ever-seeking desire and closeness with you. No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me declares the LORD (Isaiah 54:17).
We have trust and great faith that you have spoken. Your word, LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures. Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve you. If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have preserved my life. Save me, for I am yours; I have sought out your precepts. The wicked are waiting to destroy me, but I will ponder your statutes. To all perfection I see a limit, but your commands are boundless (Psalm 119:89-96).
It is You, Almighty God, the One whom we love and serve, who delivers us from the fire. Just as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to King Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel, we say the very same to our enemy today, “We do not need to defend ourselves in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace [hardships: trouble, pain, sickness, emotional distress, and dysfunction], the God we serve is able to deliver us [Salvation and Glory] from it, and he will deliver us [deliverance here on this earth or deliverance into our permanent home with Him in heaven], we will be delivered…we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up [sin and hardship, the enemy who distracts and steals our attentions and adorations for God] (Daniel 3:16-18). All glory is given to God for He has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world (1 John 4:14).
How sweet are your words to my taste [how awesome is your comfort and peace, your love and joy in those times of discontent and battle, your rescue, redemption, and restoration], your words are sweeter than honey to my mouth [to my heart, to my life]. Through your precepts, I get understanding; therefore, I hate every false way (Psalm 119:103). Nothing compares to you! You are more than enough for us! How satisfied, and full we are in You, our Daily Provision, Jehovah Jireh, the Lord who provides.
Thank you, Father, for taking tender care of all those who greeted this day downtrodden. Thank you, Father, that the power of your love, your Truth, and your Holy Presence has lifted each one so that they can taste your goodness, a piece of Heaven.
Rejoice in the LORD always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The LORD is near; Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you (Philippians 4:4-9).
How we love you Father and thank you for this day! Thank you for your inspired Word! Thank you for hearing our prayers and answering! In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen!
*****
All Scripture taken from the New International Version (NIV).
I woke with several praise songs in my heart. I am feeling prayerful and thankful, blessed and favored! Thank you, God, for this precious, early morning gift!
Yes, Lord, you are more than enough for me! I sit here this morning in complete peace, joyously basking in your Holy Presence. I cannot move, speak a sound, nor is my mind tempted to drift into another direction. I am held, grateful, and at the mercy of your Sovereign hand. This is a taste of Heaven! Pure delight and promise!
Wash over me, Lord, and show me your glory, your goodness, your love! Hallelujah!
You are so good and kind and there is no place I would rather be than here with you, in fellowship with you, your chosen child, set apart by You and for You, for holy purposes (1 Peter 2:9)! Help me shout to the crowds how magnificent you are! Help me tell of your Son, Jesus Christ and teach your inspired Word, so that all will come to know your divine, hand-delivered peace, love, and life, to each person you put before me. Empower me to be, one of many, to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ, His work on the cross, His death, burial, and resurrection. Help me use the spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12) that you have so graciously given upon the receiving of the Holy Spirit, to do the work you have predestined (Romans 8:28-30) me with, help me carry out your will in this world. We are your workmanship, purposed with good works (Ephesians 2:10), so that all will come to know you, saved and reconciled back to You, Almighty God (2 Corinthians 5:18-21)!
There is a stillness in my heart, and I pray for more of this, for me and for all those who bow reverently at your feet, in obedience to your Word. Oh, what a lovely surprise this is, this morning, and I am hooked and will seek out this exact moment every single second of the day, until I see you, face to face!
I am so very quiet, my entire being hushed by your Providence! Hallelujah!
Almighty God, what do you have for me, here and now, throughout this day, and the rest of my time here in this glorious Creation that YOU spoke life into! One word from you and all things quicken to your mighty commands. What comfort I find in you, your control of all that exists, not my concern, but yours, giving me the time and energy to put forth into you. You are my joy, a constant light in my heart, and worthy of all praise, honor, and glory.
Heavenly Father, I am here this morning, by your divine call, my heart content and full, and listening for your Almighty voice! This is goodness, far superior than anything I have ever known, this is most certainly YOU, my personal and serene get-away from all the craziness in this world. I hide in you, my shield and fortress, the lifter of my head (Psalm 3:3), my strength, and courage! I retreat to your holy sanctuary, created, and inhabited by YOU and YOU alone, for rejuvenation, direction, and wisdom to carry on as I have been chosen to do. Thank you, Father, for drawing me into this treasured place!
I now know where to dwell and because I have had a taste of such bliss, I will, by your mercy and grace, always be here, with you, in you, our hearts joined together in fellowship, an exchange of pure love and so far-gone that no sound exists, no distraction would dare enter, only adoration and total devotion welcomed and rejoiced!
This is good, you are good, thank you for inviting me here!
What blessedness you have brought me into, this morning! I cannot comprehend your love of me, but my heart gladly and gratefully receives you. Do not let me miss any moments, opportunities, or experiences, with you. Keep me here with you, let me not turn away, nor head back to where I was before I met you. I cannot bear to think of my life before you, that old familiar darkness used to rule my every thought and emotion. It has vanished because of You. Oh, what a terrible spot to be in! Please, never let it return!! Guard my heart and mind (Philippians 4:7) and let no weapon formed against me prosper (Isaiah 54:17)! Hold me up by your righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10), lift me high above this worldly turmoil. Do this for all your children, in Jesus’ Mighty Name!! Despite our daily circumstances, remind us always of your goodness. Hold each one tightly in this holy stronghold with you, learning, growing, loving, and serving!
What you have shared with me, help me share with others so that they will know you too. I want all to come with me to this secret, fortified depth of holiness. No matter what is happening in their life, my life, we are always in your hand, your care, and protection. Help each one supernaturally understand your Word of Truth. This is where the supernatural relationship begins and deepens, this is what sets us free to live as you have planned us to live (Hohn 8:36). We are here for a purpose and it is through the Bible that we learn of you and your plan for humanity and this world. Nothing is fruitless in your purpose. All have importance, called to participate, no forcing on your part, but freewill on ours. Open our hearts to hear you, Lord!
Fill each one with the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), so we can tell others of your grace and mercy, your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior, our Lord, and His awesome sacrifice for us all. Hallelujah! How wonderful, lovely, and faithful He is!! May all come to know Him!!
Healing for all by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, a free gift of grace(Roman 6:23) for those who believe in His work on the cross (Isaiah 53:5)!
Psalm 119:1-8 (ESV)
Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet
“Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me!”
Our Heavenly Prize 