Antidote for Anxiety

Let us fix our eyes on our one true necessity...The Good Portion...that which cannot be shaken or taken.

Let us lay our burdens at His feet and listen to the whisper of His Word, receiving His Truth deep into our hearts.

And as we lean into Him and take His yoke instead, our worries of today will dissipate and disintegrate. For His burden is light and, as we come to know Him, we will receive His rest forevermore.

Matthew 6:27
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifespan?

Matthew 6:25
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?

Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Matthew 11:28-30
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Luke 10:39-42
She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me." But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

Walk In Love

As humans in a fallen world, it is inevitable that we will all face some form of rejection, abandonment, temptation and persecution in our lives.

But, we can take heart that God took human form as Jesus Christ and was also rejected, abandoned and persecuted. He suffered in ways far beyond what any of us will ever face or can possibly comprehend. He completely knows and understands our pain and suffering. After all, the burden of sin...OF ALL MANKIND...rested on our unblemished Christ Jesus...alone.

Yet, He loved and sacrificed...He showed mercy, grace, forgiveness and compassion, regardless of the tumultuous circumstances He faced.

To put on the attitude of Christ is to respond in love to those who persecute and spitefully use us...to forgive and pray for them, in spite of the struggle.

A Godly response...one rooted in His Truth and Grace casts Light into the darkness...soothes the sting...removes the strongholds...binds up our wounds...and heals us with His Truth and Eternal Love.

Ephesians 5:1-2
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

Luke 23:34
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

John 13:34
A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so also you must love one another.

Romans 12:14
Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse.

Acts 7:60
Falling on his knees, he cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a priority...it is a true expression of agape love and it honors God. Understanding forgiveness is key and leads us to experience the fearless freedom it offers.

Forgiveness is not minimizing, excusing, or agreeing with the offense. We must see sin for what it is and recognize who the true offender is. Remember, our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places...against the author of anger, fear, frustration, hurt, pain, sin and confusion.

Separating the sin from the sinner opens up our heart to forgiveness of our fellow human beings...it allows God to shed His Healing Light and Truth on the stronghold of the offense...and the darkness loses its power.

Forgiveness does not always lead to reconciliation. Jehovah is Holy and He calls us to holiness. He also calls us to guard our hearts. There are certain relationships and circumstances that we should not expose ourselves to because they are not born of The Holy Spirit. We can forgive the offense...love and pray for the sinner...but must diligently separate ourselves from sin.

If we seek God and His truth...listen to the whisper of The Holy Spirit...He will enable us to forgive others and ourselves...lead us to the people, places and situations that He ordains, according to His purpose.

We have certainly all sinned and fall short of God's glory. But, as believers, we are to be imitators of Christ. And if we make forgiveness a priority, we will indeed experience peace, healing, wholeness and freedom...and honor Him with a clean heart.

Proverbs 19:11
A man's discretion makes him slow to anger, And it is his glory to overlook a transgression.

Matthew 6:14
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you.

Romans 15:7
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring glory to God.

Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.

Luke 6:37
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

Romans 3:23
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Proverbs 4:23
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Ephesians 6:12
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

1 Corinthians 14:33
For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Stepping Back Into His Will

When we drift, we most likely will experience some sort of spiritual crisis. No matter where we may find ourselves in such a painful season as this, we must always remember God’s love for us never changes. His love is perfect and completely independent of our humanity.

As we turn back to Him, we may find there are consequences for stepping out of His will. However, as believers, we can take comfort that there is never an eternal penalty for our sin. The Lord is always mighty to cover us with His comfort, grace, and mercy. And, He alone is the sustainer of our soul and spirit.

When we repent and draw near to The Father, He offers forgiveness, restoration and spiritual renewal. And regardless of the circumstances, He can repurpose our pain. He will equip us to realign our lives with His will, all for His glory. We must have faith and trust Him...as we wait for Him to generously return us to joy of our salvation.

Lamentations 3:40

Let us examine and probe our ways, And let us return to the LORD.

Psalm 51:2

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity And cleanse me from my sin.

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.

Luke 15:20

So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still in the distance, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.

Deuteronomy 4:29

But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul.

Psalm 13:5

But I have trusted in Your lovingkindness; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.

Psalm 54:4

Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul.

Psalm 51:10

Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Give It To God

Give it to God

Resign yourself to the will of God and seek His counsel; walk not in fear or frustration.

Run to and rest in His eternal arms.

Lay all that burdens you at His feet and take His yoke instead.

He will fight for you; He will sustain you and uphold you with His righteous hand.

Surrender it all to Him...be still...and know that He is God.

Psalm 55:2

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

Isaiah 28:12

...to whom he said, "This is the resting place, let the weary rest," and, "This is the place of repose..."

Matthew 11:29

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

A Promise of Hope For The Weary

God deals with sin. But through His Covenant of Grace, we find mercy, healing, redemption and restoration. The LORD is mighty to overcome the darkness...and He is faithful to transform the lost years into something beautiful and useful for His Kingdom.

There is ALWAYS hope when we surrender our heart and fix our eyes on Him...

Jeremiah 31:25
I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come!

Psalm 103:5
Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.

Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Matthew 11:28
Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

John 4:14
But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a fount of water springing up to eternal life.

Psalm 107:9
For He has satisfied the thirsty soul, And the hungry soul He has filled with what is good.

Isaiah 40:29
He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power.

Isaiah 43:19
Behold, I will do something new, Now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it? I will even make

The Lord Is A Warrior

God has a promise, purpose and plan for every sorrow surrendered to Him.

He redeems, restores and transforms every humbled and committed heart.

He appoints, anoints and equips every one of His precious children, according to their call.

He honors faith, trust and obedience with everlasting grace, peace, joy, mercy and strength.

He conquered the grave and is our Rock, Refuge, Savior and Deliverer. He is Lord over all, and His Name is Yahweh! And He is alive, eternal and always a warrior for those who call upon His Name!

Psalm 24:8
Who is the King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, The LORD mighty in battle.

Exodus 14:14
The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent.

Psalm 86:10
For You are great and do wondrous deeds; You alone are God.

Psalm 83:18
That they may know that You alone, whose name is the LORD, Are the Most High over all the earth.

Exodus 15:6
Your right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power, Your right hand, O LORD, shatters the enemy.

Psalm 18:46
The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock; And exalted be the God of my salvation.

Job 19:25
As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, And at the last He will take His stand on the earth.

Deuteronomy 32:4
The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He.

2 Samuel 22:31
As for God, His way is blameless; The word of the LORD is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.

Psalm 29:11
The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace.

Jeremiah 31:25
"For I satisfy the weary ones and refresh everyone who languishes."

1 Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

Eternal Perspective

A key factor in achieving peace in the midst of adversity is maintaining our eternal perspective. This strengthens our resolve as we wait patiently on The Lord. We focus on our Lifeboat, Who provides a refuge of still waters, regardless of the surrounding stormy seas.

Eternal perspective is gained through prayer and intimate fellowship with The Father, help from The Holy Spirit, saturation in the scripture, and by consciously removing our gaze from the worldly temptations Satan surrounds us with.

Eternal perspective lends a Godly view...the REAL big picture...and assists us in overcoming temptations and weathering storms, while maintaining perfect peace of mind.

When we look through the Christ lens, we experience love and grace, and we extend the same to others. We have everlasting peace, because we understand we were carefully crafted with purpose; that God intends for us to live an abundant, fruitful life, not one constantly tainted with misery, regret and uncertainty. As our faith is strengthened in the presence of our Savior, we glean more of Who our God really is and we gain a more personalized understanding of His design for us.

Our eternal perspective is founded in God's truth and is steeped in His cherished promises. We are enabled to make each day count for our King, because we have our eyes on the prize. So, at the end of an enormously tough day or season, we know with all that we are, it is virtually non-existent when compared to the reward of an eternity with Jesus.

Colossians 3:2
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Philippians 3:14
I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God's heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.

John 16:33
I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.

John 14:2
In My Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?

Hebrews 3:1
Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, set your minds on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess.

Revelation 3:21
To the one who is victorious, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

Romans 8:17
And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ--if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.

Philippians 3:20
But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ...

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

2 Samuel 22:31
As for God, His way is blameless; The word of the LORD is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.

Rest For Weary Souls

Run to and rest in the open, eternal arms of our loving Father. Release all your burdens to Him and take His yoke instead.

Resign yourself to the will of God and seek His Holy counsel. He will sustain you and uphold you with His righteous hand.
Be still in His loving care while He refreshes you with Living Waters...as you find rest and repose for your weary soul.

Mathew 11:29-30
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Psalm 55:2
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

Isaiah 28:12
to whom he said, 'This is the resting place, let the weary rest,' and, 'This is the place of repose...' 

Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!

The Bread of Life

Let us praise our Heavenly Father for feeding us the eternal manna of Jesus Christ, that we may be spiritually enlightened, strengthened, supported and fulfilled all the days of our lives.

Let us be ever hopeful that, whether we are facing the famine in the wilderness or the valley of temptation, The Word of God prevails. His Truth is our soul's food.

May we always be hungry for Truth; feast on and rejoice in The Bread of Life, forevermore...

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4)

He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. (Deuteronomy 8:3)

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. (John 6:35)

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)

He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever. (Psalm 111:5)

Fortress of Hope

Regardless of what you may be facing today, place your trust in the Fortress of hope, and you will not be shaken.

God is the giver and foundation of your faith. He is the author of salvation and eternal life. He commands all things seen and unseen. He provides the promise of an abundant life and desires to fulfill that for you. He has the omniscient ability to untangle the snares of adversity and part the stormy sea. He alone knows the path to peace.

He has a plan for your life, including all the seemingly impossible predicaments. Trust God. Surrender it to Him with unwavering faith. Pray without ceasing. Open your heart to receive how He may want to heal and instruct you, hone your character and strengthen your faith. God is certainly able to bring you through it with an awesome testimony of His greatness, all for His glory.

Just let your soul rest in Him, for He is the unlimited source of your help, hope, peace, comfort and strength.

And remember...at the end of the day, come what may, you have been promised eternity with Jesus.

Psalm 33:20
We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.

Hebrews 10:36
You need to persevere, so that after you have done God's will, you will receive what He has promised.

Psalm 37:39
The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.

Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.

Psalm 25:5
Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; For You I wait all the day.

Psalm 27:4
Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.

Psalm 62:5
Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.

Psalm 130:5
I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.

Closer Than A Brother

Our Savior, Our Friend

Jesus, You are our greatest, truest friend. You laid down Your life for us and spilled Your Precious Blood, so we could come to know You.

You are the Counselor on High and The True Physician. You are our Advocate, Shepherd, Savior, Bridegroom, Rock, Salvation, Strong Tower of Strength…

And, LORD Jesus, we run to you!

John 10:11
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.

Isaiah 9:6
For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Mark 2:17
On hearing this, Jesus told them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

John 14:16
And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever--

Psalm 18:2
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold

Isaiah 61:10
I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in my God; For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

John 15:15
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you.

Fear Not

Some of us are natural warriors. Through our experiences and temperament, it is ingrained into our very fiber to fight when faced with adversity. Others choose to retreat...bury the feeling and run. Interestingly, these responses even mimic the physiologic design our Elohim created in us, known as “fight or flight.” Thus, whether it is a learned belief system or an involuntary response, when faced with fear we tend to either fight or run. However, The LORD has told us repeatedly to fear not...and fearlessness is achievable only if we are dependent upon Him.

For those who fight, we have to remember The LORD is the mightiest of warriors. We think we’ve made it through some “stuff” and pride ourselves on being a strong person. But, this in itself is a weakness and a struggle. Self-reliance is not trusting God, and it prevents Him from pouring His fullness into us. HIS power is made perfect in our weakness. HE is the source of our strength. We are only conquerors through Christ! When we are dependent on God, Christ’s power will rest upon us. Living in self-reliance-warrior-mode is exhausting because we are fighting a battle we cannot win alone. The war, the battle, and the victory is His!

Likewise, if we tend to bury and retreat, we never face the very things we are afraid of...so we continue to run. Nothing ever gets fully resolved. In essence, we never process through anything with Jesus, never receive healing, and never fully experience Grace. We should instead run to our Strong Tower of Strength, seek His refuge, and allow Him to cover us with His wing. We must retreat into His presence, not into ourselves, or (especially) into our own thinking. If we are not willing to confront issues with Jesus, like the “fighter,” we are self-reliant in carrying our burdens. We grow weary, exhausted, and debilitated as the weight accumulates. We become a prisoner in our own mind and never experience peace. The task is to take His yoke, hold our thoughts captive in Christ, and invite Him in to repair the wounds we have neglected due to fear.

Rejoice, for Jesus is the Prince of peace! When we are faced with fear, we must remember chaos, doubt, fear, and uncertainty are not fruits of the Spirit and NOT from our mighty LORD! He has repeatedly reminded us not be afraid and that He is near to His precious children. Jesus paid a high price to afford us deliverance and reconciliation to The Father...that we might seek refuge, experience His Grace, and rest in Him.

Be strong, but in the power of The LORD’s might. Be a soldier, but in The Name of Jesus! Retreat for rest in Jesus...and run into the arms of The God Of All Comfort. Open your heart for healing by The True Physician. Surrender your thoughts to The Counselor On High. Exchange your self-reliance for His yoke. Draw near to God..allow His perfect love to cast out your fear...and experience peace that surpasses all understanding.

Exodus 15:3
The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is his name.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?

Psalm 18:2
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the LORD, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.

2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.

John 16:33
I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!

1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Deuteronomy 31:8
The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

Psalm 68:19
Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation. Selah.

God Fills The Void

Only the One who created our hearts is meant to fill it. We were designed by God to desire, seek and to ultimately be completed by Him.

Nothing else we attempt to occupy the void with will ever suffice because we are destined for Him. Only God can penetrate the emptiness and the longing in our hearts and offer us true satisfaction. Jesus is the sustenance of life and paid an incomprehensible price to make His home in our hearts!

So let us give the Lord our whole heart, as it belongs to Him to fill! And may we be blessed with the anointing of His love...as our soul-cup runs over with His fullness, born from the spring of eternal life.

Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Matthew 11:28
Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

John 4:14
But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a fount of water springing up to eternal life.

John 6:35
Jesus answered, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst."

Colossians 2:10
And you have been made complete in Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

Ephesians 3:19
and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Psalm 63:1
...O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water.

Colossians 1:16
For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him.

Romans 11:36
For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.

Drawn Near To God

Let us call upon The Lord with a sincere heart and steadfast faith...seek Him earnestly and delight ourselves in Him.

Let us trust in His promises and take refuge in our Rock, Stronghold and Shield...find safety, strength and fruitful seasons in Him.

Let us draw near to our Deliverer in truth and transparency, finding that He is never far away...that our cries are readily received by His Heavenly ears.

And may we come away with a new song in our heart...rejoicing and praising Him forevermore!

Psalm 34:17
The righteous cry, and the LORD hears And delivers them out of all their troubles.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the LORD, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 34:18
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 18:6
In my distress I called upon the LORD, And cried to my God for help; He heard my voice out of His temple, And my cry for help before Him came into His ears.

Psalm 18:2
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18:31
For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God,

Deuteronomy 4:7
For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the LORD our God whenever we call on Him?

Jeremiah 23:23
"Am I a God who is near," declares the LORD, "And not a God far off?"

Acts 17:27
God intended that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us.

Acts 14:17
Yet He has not left Himself without testimony to His goodness: He gives you rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts with food and gladness."

Psalm 73:28
But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, That I may tell of all Your works.

Psalm 37:4
Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 28:7
The LORD is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.

Stand Firm On Truth

Brethren, we must stand firm on God’s Truth. It only takes one waking day in this decaying world to recognize the perilous times at hand. There is an increasing urgency in our commission as we prepare for our beloved Groom.

Everything true and just is found in God’s Word. His precepts and promises are immutable and He is seeing it all through to fulfillment. Lest we fall slaves to the deceit and bondage of this world, we must don the sword of the Spirit and guard the precious Truth entrusted to us.

His Truth is holy, pure and without compromise. With it, we are fully equipped to live a life that is righteous and blameless in His sight...as worthy vessels for the priceless cargo we carry for our beautiful Lord and Savior. His Word contains every perfect instruction to serve honorably in our faithful race.

Beloved brothers and sisters, He IS the way...and the gate is narrow. Stand firm...be encouraged...and always be prepared to share the source of your hope. Speak truth boldly and without shame, but always with the love of Jesus.

Oh, how blessed are those who receive Christ into their hearts! For, they shall walk in truth, love, light and freedom...and unto them is the imperishable crown of eternal life!

Psalm 40:2
He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.

Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery.

1 Corinthians 16:13
Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Mark 13:31
Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.

Colossians 1:22-23
But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

John 14:6
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Hosea 14:9
Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; Whoever is discerning, let him know them. For the ways of the LORD are right, And the righteous will walk in them, But transgressors will stumble in them.

Matthew 7:14
But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Matthew 24:44
For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him.

Philippians 1:27
Nevertheless, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending side by side for the faith of the gospel.

Mark 16:15
And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”

1 Peter 3:15
But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to articulate a defense to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But respond with gentleness and respect,

Psalm 31:24
Be strong and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD.

Psalm 119:1
Aleph. How blessed are those whose way is blameless, Who walk in the law of the LORD.

Philippians 4:1
Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you must stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.

James 1:12
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.

The Lord Surrounds His People

May The Lord surround and strengthen us, and place us in His perfect peace.

May His power rest on us and be made perfect in our weaknesses...according to His omniscient might...and all for the richness of His glory.

May He anoint us and fill us with the bounty of His Holy Spirit, until our cup overflows.

And may we never be shaken in our trust in Him, as He completes the good and gracious work He ordained in us long ago.

You have enclosed me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me.
~Psalm 139:5

But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.'
~2 Corinthians 12:9

I pray that out of the riches of His glory, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being,
~Ephesians 3:16

...being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully...
~Colossians 1:11

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, that He considered me faithful and appointed me to service.
~1 Timothy 1:12

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
~Philippians 4:13

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
~Philippians 1:6

He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.
~Psalm 62:2

Freedom

God created us as free-moral-agents. We are free to choose eternal life or death...free to choose Fruits of The Spirit or the "forbidden fruit" we may be confronted with each day...free to choose Him.

Praise God that when we exercise our free will and choose Christ (the authentic path designed for us long ago), we experience the HIGHEST FORM OF FREEDOM!

In His love for us, Abba God not only gives us freedom of choice, but also offers a plan when we get derailed! He stretches out His arms from afar and promises forgiveness, mercy, grace, redemption, and restoration. What love!

John 8:32
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

2 Corinthians 3:17
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom

Romans 8:2
For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set you free from the law of sin and death.

Hebrews 4:16
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Luke 15:20-24
So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his servants, “Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” So they began to celebrate.

The Lord Is My Shepherd

Father God,

Thank You for Your tender, loving desire to form a righteous relationship with Your sheep...

Thank You for the perfect provision of our every physical, emotional and spiritual need so that we are sustained in our walk with You...

Thank You for Your peaceful, living waters of renewal and restoration so that we shall never thirst...

Thank You for Your guidance and Your will in creating us according to Your divine purpose, and for Your glory...

Thank You for Your faithful protection and comfort; Your Word and the indwelling of The Holy Spirit...

Thank You for preparing the way in advance and for Your blessings of hope, abundance and security...

Thank You for Your voice in the darkness that leads Your wandering sheep back into the fold...

We joyfully praise and thank You for Your precious gift of eternal life...that we will spend with You, our Lord and Shepherd, Jehovah Raah!

In The Holy and Righteous Name of Jesus,
Amen.

Shine

We bow down before Your Throne and choose divine partnership with You today and every day.

We pray for Your pouring of The Holy Spirit into our willing hearts; that You ordain and anoint us with ongoing sanctification and transformation.

We pray for minds that comprehend and partake of Your immutable knowledge, and to receive this holy truth into yielding hearts.

Mold us and fill us, Father, so we can be a beacon of hope to others and lead them to Your sanctuary. Show us how to be co-laborers in the building of Your Kingdom, and may it come swiftly to this hurting world.

Continue your completion in us, Lord; bend, mold and hone us into the authentic being You created and designed in us long ago.

And may Your flame blaze brilliantly within us, Lord...so we will shine radiantly as the sun and stars in the heavens...for ever and ever...

In Jesus Christ's Name,

Amen.

Matthew 13:43
Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Philippians 2:15
...so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world...

Matthew 5:14
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Rest For Weary Souls

Run to and rest in the open, eternal arms of our loving Father. Release all your burdens to Him and take His yoke instead.

Resign yourself to the will of God and seek His Holy counsel. He will sustain you and uphold you with His righteous hand.

Be still in His loving care while He refreshes you with Living Waters...as you find rest and repose for your weary soul.

Psalm 55:2
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

Isaiah 28:12
to whom he said, 'This is the resting place, let the weary rest,' and, 'This is the place of repose...'

Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!

Fullness of Hs Love

Praise The LORD that we are more than conquerors through Christ and His fragrant offering to The Father! We claim this victory today and everyday in The Name of Jesus!

Praise The LORD for the peace He has placed in our hearts...and for pouring into us the fullness of His unshakeable, unconditional, unwavering, extravagant and limitless love!

Praise The LORD that we are one with The Son, rooted and grounded in love, never separated from The Father...and that through His Grace, we have inherited Eternity with The King of kings and LORD of lords!

Hallelujah!

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.

John 16:33
I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!"

Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

1 Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 5:2
and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Ephesians 3:17-19
So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God...

Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Revelation 3:21
To the one who is victorious, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.