Whiter Than Snow

Let us cry out to Abba Father for sanctification and purification of our souls.

Let us invite Him in to cleanse and condition our hearts...that He might bathe and soak us in The Holy Spirit, as we truly experience His Grace.

Let us petition Him to remove all shame, fear, guilt, anger and uncertainty...all the lies we've received in our earthly existence...and, in turn, receive and believe His immutable truth.

And may He may produce in us the authentic, Holy Spirit-filled being He intended and created in us...with a heart whiter than snow.

Psalm 51:2
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

John 13:8
"Never shall You wash my feet!" Peter told Him. Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.” John 13:9
"Then Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not only my feet, but my hands and my head as well." Acts 22:16
And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized, and wash your sins away, calling on His name.

1 Corinthians 6:11
And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Hebrews 10:22
...let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.

Proverbs 22:11
He who loves purity of heart And whose speech is gracious, the king is his friend.

Hebrews 12:14
Pursue peace with all men, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.

Psalm 51:10
Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Lead Me To The Rock

The Psalms are the prayers of King David during the most overwhelming times of His life. His trials and problems always brought Him to his knees before God.

He knew when He was overwhelmed and had reached the limit of what he could endure, to cry out to the One who can bear all things and gives us rest. .
We too can cry out to that same Rock – to Jesus Christ - our rock of deliverance, our rock of defense, our rock of salvation, our rock of our strength.

David cries out “Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.” Notice our job is to cry out to God in our distress, and the job of the Holy Spirit is to lead us to Jesus.

If you are overwhelmed today, if your circumstances are more than you can bear, cry out to Jesus – to the Rock that is his higher than you and higher than your circumstances, higher than all your problems.

He will deliver you. He will bring you to a place of rest, strength, and victory. .
Psalm 18:46
The LORD lives; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.

Psalm 27:5
For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.

Psalm 40:2
He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and put my feet upon a rock, and established my steps.

Psalm 62:26
He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defense; I shall not be moved.

No Greater Love then His

Our worth is decided by God and God alone...His appraisal of our value is the atoning sacrifice of His one and only Son, Jesus Christ.

God planned our existence before creation, loved us at our darkest, and worked it together for our good to spend eternity with Him.

THERE IS NO GREATER LOVE THAN HIS!

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.

1 John 4:10
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Psalm 139:13-14
For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.

Pure In Heart

Father God,

Create in us a softened, clean, healed, whole heart...

A heart that is cultivated and fertile to receive Your Word and Truth...

A heart that is filled with the full measure of Your unconditional, merciful love and grace.

Weed out and remove the things that bind us and cause us to separate ourselves from You, Lord.

Plant Your seeds in the soil of our hearts, Father, and grow our roots deep...nourish and flourish us with Your Living Waters.

And let us bear an ever-increasing yield of fruits of The Spirit, according to Your Will for us in Jesus Christ.

May we all have ears that hear and a penetrable heart, for Your Glory...

In The Name of our Holy and Righteous Savior, Jesus Christ,

Amen.

Mark 4:3-9
"Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times.”
Then Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”

Luke 8:15
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

Luke 8:16
No one lights a lamp and covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he sets it on a lampstand, so those who enter can see the light.

Psalm 51:10
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

The Birth of Jesus

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. (Luke 2:1-20)

Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.

Matthew 1:23
Behold! The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel (which means, "God with us").

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.

God With Us

Praise God that He made a way for humanity to be reconciled unto Him! A Holy Child born and given to us through the zealous love of The LORD God!

He is the Wonderful Counselor who listens to every sorrow. He intimately knows every struggle and the innermost desires of our hearts. He provides an eternal resource to those who call upon His name.

He is our Mighty God and LORD over all. He is able and willing to save, shield and deliver each of His precious children. He is watching over His Word and fulfills It.

He is our Eternal Father, Alpha and Omega, nailed to The Cross, and interceding on our behalf every second of every day. He designed us in His image and made a way for us to reside with Him forever. He completes us.

He is the Prince of Peace, promising an abundant life of hope, love, joy and a sound mind to those who diligently seek Him.

God was with us then...He is with us now...He is with us always!

Hallelujah!

Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

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.

Isaiah 9:7
There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.

Matthew 1:21
She will give birth to a son, and you shall give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.

John 4:42
They said to the woman, "We now believe not only because of your words; we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man truly is the Savior of the world."

John 11:27
"Yes, Lord," she answered, "I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world."

Luke 2:11
Today in the City of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!

God's Gift To You

Take time to today to reflect on what God has done for you in Christ Jesus...the richness of His Glorious Mystery, and the hope this gift offers to you.

Mediate on the complexity of God's perfect, divine plan...and how He lovingly and deliberately included you. That, long ago before the heavens and earth were created, He formed you in His mind and intricately planned your existence, identity, and eternal inheritance.

No matter what your circumstances are today, praise Him for what He has carefully constructed, revealed and promised to you...the greatest Gift ever unwrapped...The Mystery of Jesus Christ.

Hallelujah!

Romans 8:19
The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God.

John 1:12
But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God--

Colossians 1:26-27
the mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints, to whom God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Ephesians 3:9
and to illuminate for everyone the stewardship of this mystery, which for ages past was hidden in God, who created all things.

Colossians 2:2
that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ,

John 3:16-17
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. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.

Galatians 3:26
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

1 John 5:11
And this is that testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Author of Peace

God brings order out of chaos, even the chaos we create ourselves.

If there is conflict and confusion in your life today and you lack peace, chances are you are looking at the relationship, situation, or problem through the eyes of the world. Doing so brings about impatience, disorder, and anxiety, which can cause us to lash out unlovingly at others.

But when you shift your focus through God’s lens, His peace begins to reign in your heart. God is able to help you respond to others in love, patience, and forgiveness; thus, maintaining peace with those around you. It’s your choice – you can live in confusion or chaos, or you can live a life marked by peace.

Proverbs 16:7
When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 16:33
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Thirst for Righteousness

Hunger and thirst are powerful motivators, prompting us to spring into action to satisfy these needs - to indeed “fill” the emptiness with something - anything to ease the pain. In fact, much of our lives are spent working and planning to ensure that these needs are met to the best of our ability.

But, what if instead we trust The LORD our God to satisfy our needs - specifically, our spiritual need for righteousness? While in the wilderness fasting for forty days and nights (as per Divine instruction), Jesus was tempted by the enemy to fill His need outside of the will of God - to use His power to feed Himself - to satisfy His own personal gratification. Jesus responded by saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’” (Luke 4:4)

Jesus chose to depend only on God. And through the perfection of His righteousness, we now may choose Truth and be satisfied in our own hunger and thirst - filled with the indwelling of The Holy Spirit - redeemed, sanctified, and transformed into the fullness of God!

Praise The LORD for the righteousness made available to us through His Son! Praise The LORD for His Promise to fill us when we seek the Eternal Manna of Jesus Christ! Praise The LORD that He promises to satisfy our every need when we place our faith and trust in Him alone!

LORD God, You are faithful and have promised that when we search for You with all of our heart, You will open the door to Eternity and we will find You. We receive this promise and invite You, precious Jesus, to fill our hearts with Your Glory. You are our righteousness, redemption, and rest...and Your Truth is the lamp to our feet. Fill us, Father, with the Eternal Well of Salvation - Jehovah Saves - that we may never hunger or thirst for all the days of our lives. We place our faith and trust in You alone to fill every void and need. In The Name of Jesus we pray these things...Amen.

Jeremiah 29:13
You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

Matthew 7:8
For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

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.

John 6:51
I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And this bread, which I will give for the life of the world, is My flesh.

John 7:37
On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood up and called out in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.”

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.

Isaiah 12:3
With joy you will draw water from the springs of salvation.

Psalm 107:9
For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

Be Courageous And Act

May The Lord give you distinct discernment to see what He has ordained and laid before you today.

May you rise up, empowered with the supernatural strength of The Holy Spirit...clothed with the Christian armor...covered in protection and prayer.

And may you be anointed with the courage and tenacity to accomplish what He has purposefully placed in your path!

Psalm 31:24
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

Galatians 6:9
Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up.

1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

2 Corinthians 4:1
Therefore, since we have this ministry through the mercy of God, we do not lose heart.

2 Corinthians 9:6
Consider this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.

2 Thessalonians 3:13
But as for you, brothers, do not grow weary in well-doing.

Ephesians 6:10
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Ezra 10:4
Arise! For this matter is your responsibility, but we will be with you; be courageous and act.

He Is Holy!

Our Lord God is the Holiest of holies, far beyond anything else in existence. Yet, regardless of our human condition, our Heavenly Father desires an intimate relationship and fellowship with each of His children!

He desires for us to choose, honor and obey Him; to receive His sanctification and transformation into holiness. God created us in His likeness and designed us to spend eternity with Him! So much that He gave His only Son to accomplish this!

Let us approach His Holy Realm with humility; honor our time with Him on Holy Ground. Let us choose, praise, glorify, obey and worship our Abba Father in the manner that He is worthy.

Our Lord God is high and lifted up...and He Is Holy, Holy, Holy!

Let them praise Your great and awesome name; Holy is He.
~Psalm 99:3

There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.
~1 Samuel 2:2

...and they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory."
~Isaiah 6:3

...and they have no rest day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come.
~Revelation 4:8

And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.
~Exodus 3:5

We Praise You, Father!

For, we are fearfully and wonderfully made, by You and for Your purpose and pleasure!

You have carefully crafted creation and breathed life into all that exists, both seen and unseen;

Yet, we are thought of, loved and adored by You, in ways we cannot even fathom.

Oh, we are truly blessed, for we know that not only do we live, but that we are delightfully designed to spend all eternity with You!

In Christ's Name,
Amen.

Psalm 139:14
Many, O Lord my God, are Your wonderful works Which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us Cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.

I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.

Job 5:9
Who does great and unsearchable things, Wonders without number.

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.

Nehemiah 9:6
You alone are the LORD. You have made the heavens, The heaven of heavens with all their host, The earth and all that is on it, The seas and all that is in them. You give life to all of them And the heavenly host bows down before You.

Ephesians 1:4
For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence...

Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus...

1 John 2:25
And this is the promise that He Himself made to us: eternal life.

The Lord Hears Our Cry

We all go through struggles and hard times. Life is not fair. There are times of sadness, despair, and regret. The Psalmist paints a picture of someone trapped in an emotional downward spiral.

Everything seems overwhelming and yet, in the end, they were able to say that there is encouragement in seeking God’s help. Why? Because God hears us. There are two types of trauma that brings the kind of despair that we read in today’s passage. There is the trauma of “not getting what we need” , and then there is the trauma of “getting something that we should have never received.” The first is the result of neglect and abandonment, the second from abuse. But the good news is that God hears us in our despair and He can help us. Life brings each of us inescapable traumas that block maturity. God’s redemptive activity comes to us in two ways: He brings healing to our traumas, and adopts us into His family. Both ways boost us through our blocks to maturity, along the way to wholeness, With these boosts, we will be able to live from the hearts He gave us, our true identities will emerge, and our relationships with family and community will be characterized by joy.  

Today, praise God for His healing. It is there for you as you bring your pain to Him. Also, praise God for His family. It is through the fellowship and love from each other that we are made whole and can experience the joy He has for us.

“Save me, O God, for the floodwaters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; I can’t find a foothold. I am in deep water, and the floods overwhelm me. I am exhausted from crying for help; my throat is parched. My eyes are swollen with weeping, waiting for my God to help me.” – “Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged. For the LORD hears the cries of the needy.” Psalms 69: 1-3, 32-33 (NLT)

Abundant Life In Christ

Would it make any difference to you today if you received the truth that Jesus came that you may have life, and to also have it abundantly?
How much different would your life be if you understood that God has a specific, fruitful plan for you; one that is immeasurable by man?

God does have a distinct, predestined purpose for all of His precious children...both individually and collectively...and it is far beyond anything we can possibly conceive in our humanity.

Our unchanging, unwavering Provider has unlimited resources and He is exceedingly able to bless us far beyond our heart's desire...according to His power that is at work within us...today, tomorrow and forevermore!

All of the trials, temptations, fears, possessions, pain and worldly pleasures we attain or experience on Earth are temporary. But, a life that is sustained through The Holy Spirit is exceedingly abundant and eternal. Through His provision of truth, freedom, and grace...we should not just be alive, but experiencing our lives abundantly!

Ephesians 3:20
Now to Him who is able to do infinitely more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us,

Psalm 37:4
Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Philippians 4:19
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 1:11
In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will... James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Romans 16:25
Now to Him who is able to strengthen you by my gospel and by the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery concealed for ages past,

2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Etrernal 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.

New Creation

Satan likes to utilize our shame from past mistakes to fill us with a sense of indictment. The enemy gains a stronghold through our unhealed hearts; thus, intensifying and festering our anger, guilt, and regret. He uses our lingering, painful emotions to rob us of our joy and peace in the present.

Even more dangerous, the enemy can glamorize the past in a way that makes us long for pieces of our old self. This is a dangerous, slippery slope. Remember Lot's wife! Our past is the biggest indicator of how desperately we need our precious Savior!

In contrast, God says we are a new creation and justified by the Blood of Christ. God says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. God is able to restore the years the locusts have taken away. He promises an abundant life full of hope. Through His grace, every mistake can be miraculously transformed into a beautiful testimony of His love, mercy, forgiveness, and splendor.

The past, along with the present and future, belongs to Abba God. Therefore, let us trust and honor God by surrendering it to Him, all for His ordained and anointed purpose. Let us partner with The Balm of Gilead in a heart healing; obey and trust Him to make all things new; praise Him for all He has done and will continue to do.

Let us give God all the glory for how He made a way for us through Jesus; believe and fully receive His Grace. Let us rejoice that we are reconciled by The Blood of The Lamb; sanctified, transformed and regenerated by The Holy Spirit.

Take heart, for there is no place in the present or our future for anything old. We are a new creation...kin with Christ...citizens of Heaven. If there is anything useful from our brokenness, God can certainly transform it into something beautiful, according to His Will and all for His Marvelous Glory...
Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

The Bread of Life

Let us always be grateful and mindful that in the wilderness of famine or the valley of temptation, The Word of God prevails...it is our soul's food...the means by which our Spirit is nourished and sustained.

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

May we always be hungry for Truth...comforted by His Rod and Staff - His Word and The Holy Spirit...and rejoice in The Bread of Life, forevermore...

"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)

"I am the bread of life." (John 6:48)

He Loved Us First

Let us not be fearful of the snares of man, because that leads to the trap of an unholy path.

Let us instead pray for God's hand of protection over us in the midst of rejection, ridicule and persecution.

Let us instead pray for patience, courage and strength of endurance...reacting as children of The Living God.

Let us rejoice that He called us out of darkness and pray for those who do not know The Father...remembering that we love and forgive because He first loved and forgave us.

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 John 3:1
Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.

1 John 3:13
So do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you.

Luke 21:19
By your patient endurance, you will gain your souls.

John 15:19
If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.

John 15:21
But they will treat you like this on account of My name, because they do not know the One who sent Me.

Luke 23:34
Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up His garments by casting lots.

1 John 4:10
And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Matthew 10:22
You will be hated by everyone on account of My name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.

Overcomer

Rejoice today that you are an overcomer! You have received Jesus as your Savior, and your identity is rooted in Him. Through Christ, you have defeated death and conquered darkness! You are a new Creation, and He who is in you is greater than anything! Walk in victorious freedom; for in Him, there is no condemnation...only a lighted life that cannot be extinguished. This is His eternal promise to you; this is the abundant life He offers to all who receive Him. You are His...rescued and redeemed...sealed for Eternity...one with The Son!

Rejoice and praise The King of kings and LORD of lords, as you walk in confident and unshakable faith! Rise grateful every day with hope and predestined purpose; freely receive His Grace...and run your race as the conqueror that you are called, equipped, and chosen to be!

1 John 4:4
You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

1 John 5:4
For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world— our faith.

John 1:5
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John 16:33
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Ephesians 1:13
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,

Galatians 3:14
He redeemed us in order that the blessing promised to Abraham would come to the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

Revelation 3:5
“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.”

Revelation 3:12
“He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.”

Revelation 17:14
These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.

John 10:10
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Romans 8:37
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

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

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!

“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.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11:29-30‬ ‭

Gracious Words

Have you ever blurted out the wrong words at the wrong time? Horrified, you wish you could push the rewind button and start again – but, unfortunately, the words are irretrievable.

Scripture tells us to keep watch over our tongue, and for good reason. Words have the power to create strife or peace; to build up or destroy; to bless or curse.

The old adage claims ‘words never hurt me.” That, however, couldn’t be farther from the truth. Words do hurt and can wound a heart for a lifetime. But the right words spoken at the right time have the power to heal and comfort.

Words count – so count your words!

“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
Psalm 141:3

“There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
James 3:2 .

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Proverbs 15:1

“A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is!" Proverbs 15:23

Using Words Wisely

The spoken word can have a powerful impact on the listener. Once spoken, our words are irreversible. They can bless or curse; heal or hurt; be gentle or incite anger; edify or tear down; be useful or destructive. Although we have no power over how our words are received, we do have stewardship over what we say...and how we say it.

The mighty Word of God says that the tongue is “a world of wickedness among the parts of the body,” that “death and life are in the power of the tongue,” and that “the one who guards his mouth preserves his life.” Our words have immense power! While righteous words are life-breathing, careless speech can have devastating consequences.

LORD God, help us to be quick to listen, slow to anger and slow to speak. Show us how to guard and tame our tongues. Bend our speech to be useful and gentle, seasoned with grace and wisdom. Lead us to speak truth in love...like honey to the soul of the recipient. Forgive us, LORD, for any unrighteousness we commit with our words; protect and heal us us from the careless words of others. Teach us how to utilize our words to bless, comfort and edify one another. Remind us always of the magnitude of our words, and let us be Holy Spirit led in all we do and say. In The Name of Jesus we pray...Amen!

Matthew 12:36
But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.

James 3:5-6
In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest on fire. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

Colossians 4:6
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Psalm 49:3
My mouth will speak wisdom, And the meditation of my heart will be understanding.

Ecclesiastes 10:12
Words from the mouth of a wise man are gracious, while the lips of a fool consume him;

Proverbs 13:3
The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 21:23
He who guards his mouth and his tongue, Guards his soul from troubles.

James 1:19
My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,

Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

Proverbs 18:7
A fool's mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul.

Proverbs 10:11
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.

Romans 14:19
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.

1 Peter 1:15
But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.

Intercession

Intercessory prayers reflect the very essence of God's own character...rich in unconditional love, grace and mercy.

Praying for others enables us to look beyond ourselves and increases our empathy, concern and compassion for others.

Think about this...who do you want to spend eternity with? Are there people you care about who do not know Jesus? Are you praying for them...interceding without ceasing?

Then, consider this...love and pray for your enemies. This is truly putting on the compassion of Christ and going beyond yourself in interceding for them.

Remember, prayer is sweet smelling aroma that pleases Him (Revelation 5:8). The Father desires our prayers! Prayer strengthens our faith and increases our intimacy with Him! In it, we are reflecting and glorifying Jesus!

Let us pray with sincere hearts and without ceasing on behalf of God's hurting children...that they will have a heart change and receive Jesus...that they will share in our eternal inheritance...and experience the riches, hope, glory and everlasting grace freely given by our Abba Father!

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Called & Equipped

God does not make empty promises. If He brings you to it, He is faithful to empower and equip you to accomplish His will. His gifts are irrevocable; His Word and promises are immutable. He equips the called and gives strength to the weary.

Lord, we praise You and claim the victory of what You are doing in and through us...equipping us for every good work...according to Your perfect will. Father, thank You for strengthening and sustaining us as we walk on your lighted path; we pray to follow the promptings of The Holy Spirit and to discern Your will in all areas of our lives. We give You all the glory, Abba, and pray for wisdom and courage to do what is pleasing unto You.

In the precious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,

Amen!

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

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

2 Timothy 3:17
so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 11:29
For God's gifts and His call are irrevocable.

1 Corinthians 1:9
God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold resolutely to the hope we confess, for He who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 13:20-21
Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Examine My Heart, Oh Lord!

Dear Lord,

I ask that today and every day You will partner with me in a thorough examination and cleansing of my heart. Reveal, heal and deliver me of all the strongholds I am bound by in my life. LORD, please expose with Your Truth and Light all the pain, fear, shame, guilt and sorrow that is hidden within dark places of my heart … all the things that prevent me from living a life of freedom, peace, and joy that come from a transparent relationship with You. 

Father. Please show me how to come before You in faith, trust, obedience, and submission, revealing to me all the lies I have received and believed in my life… helping me to replace my deformed belief system with Your Word and Your Truth, which endures forever. Teach me Your Ways, LORD, and show me how to find freedom in your limitless forgiveness for myself and others, to embrace myself as a new creation. Allow me to see myself through Your eyes, as Your precious child, joint heir with Christ in Your Kingdom of Heaven.
  
Write a new story on my heart, LORD… one born of The Holy Spirit, guided by the power of Your redemption and restoration. Please bless and comfort me with a wholeness of healing that is only possible through You, Jehovah Rapha-my LORD Who Heals. Abba Father, I praise You for all that You Are, yesterday, today and tomorrow, and pray all these things in the Name of my Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen!

Cast Your Burden On Jesus

Father,

My heart is heavy. I feel like I have to carry the burden alone. Words like overwhelmed, distraught, exhausted seem to describe where I am. I am not sure how to let you carry my heavy load, so please show me how. Take it from me. Let me rest and be refreshed so that my heart won't be so heavy in the morning.

In Jesus name. Amen.
.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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 mind in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

"When you are in distress and all these things have come upon you, in the latter days you will return to the LORD your God and listen to His
voice." Deuteronomy 4:30

"For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock." Psalm 27:5
"In the day of my trouble, I shall call upon You, For You will answer me." Psalm 86:7

"When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him." Psalm 91:15

"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 18:6

"About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly
a strong earthquake shook the foundations of the prison. At once all the doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.… "Acts 16:25

"When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand." Psalm 37:24

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

"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Romans 8:37

Never Broken!

As believers, the treasury of God's Word and the indwelling of The Holy Spirit enables us to endure the valleys of life with unshakeable confidence and peace.

Just as Paul, we know that regardless of the hardships we may face in this world, we will rise up and endure. We are sustained by the omniscient source of our faith and the power of His grace.

Take heart, for He who is in us is greater than anything in this world! (1 John 4:4)

God is our very present refuge and strength in troubled times! (Psalm 46:1)

We will endure because The Lord has promised He will sustain us to the end! (1 Corinthians 1:8)

His grace is always sufficient and His power is perfect, regardless our weaknesses! (2 Corinthians 12:9)

May we rest assured in His embrace...hold fast to His truth and promises, and let them be a ballast to our souls. We will surely survive even our dimmest days. For, by His grace, we are NEVER BROKEN!

2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light and temporary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that far outweighs our troubles.

Proverbs 24:16
For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again, But the wicked stumble in time of calamity.

Romans 8:18
I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.

1 Peter 5:10
And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you.

Isaiah 40:31
Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.

God Will Do A New Thing

Satan likes to utilize our shame from past mistakes to fill us with a sense of indictment. The enemy gains a stronghold through our unhealed hearts; thus, intensifying and festering our anger, guilt, and regret. He uses our lingering, painful emotions to rob us of our joy and peace in the present.

Even more dangerous, the enemy can glamorize the past in a way that makes us long for pieces of our old self. This is a dangerous, slippery slope. Remember Lot's wife! Our past is the biggest indicator of how desperately we need our precious Savior!

In contrast, God says we are a new creation and justified by the Blood of Christ. God says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. God is able to restore the years the locusts have taken away. He promises an abundant life full of hope. Through His grace, every mistake can be miraculously transformed into a beautiful testimony of His love, mercy, forgiveness, and splendor.
The past, along with the present and future, belongs to Abba God.

Therefore, let us trust and honor God by surrendering it to Him, all for His ordained and anointed purpose. Let us partner with The Balm of Gilead in a heart healing; obey and trust Him to make all things new; praise Him for all He has done and will continue to do.

Let us give God all the glory for how He made a way for us through Jesus; believe and fully receive His Grace. Let us rejoice that we are reconciled by The Blood of The Lamb; sanctified, transformed and regenerated by The Holy Spirit.

Take heart, for there is no place in the present or our future for anything old. We are a new creation...kin with Christ...citizens of Heaven. If there is anything useful from our brokenness, God can certainly transform it into something beautiful, according to His Will and all for His Marvelous Glory... 

Isaiah 43:19
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

What Is Seen Is Eternal

Let us fix our eyes on things unseen and eternal, and seek The Lord our God with our whole hearts.

Let us have everlasting hope in our omniscient Creator, regardless of our human perspective, and fully trust in His perfect plan.

And may our faith be refined like silver when tested...glorifying our Holy Father in Heaven.

Proverbs 8:17
I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.

Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

James 1:3
...because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance...

2 Corinthians 4:18
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

1 Peter 1:7
These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

tagTag Photopin

Purification

Holy and Heavenly Father God,

I pray that today and every day You will partner with me in a thorough examination and cleansing of my heart…reveal, heal and deliver me of all the strongholds I am bound by in my life.

LORD, please expose with Your Truth and Light all the pain, fear, shame, guilt and sorrow that is hidden within dark places of my heart...all the things that prevent me from living a life of freedom, peace, and joy that come from a transparent relationship with You.

Father, please show me how to come before You in faith, trust, obedience and submission …and in this exchange, please reveal to me all the lies I have received and believed in my life…partner with me in replacing my deformed belief system with Your Word and Your Truth, which is infallible and endures forever.

Teach me Your Ways, LORD, and show me how to find freedom in forgiveness of self and others…to embrace myself as a new creation...to put away the former things and live each day in the way You designed and ordained long ago...and to see myself through Your eyes, as Your precious child and joint heir with Christ in Your Kingdom of Heaven.

Show me, LORD, how to receive Your Fatherly Forgiveness, Great Grace, Limitless Love and Marvelous Mercy…lead me to bathe in the peaceful, still waters of renewal and sanctification…anoint me with Your Holy Spirit until my cup runs over.

Write a new story on my heart, LORD…one born of The Holy Spirit and guided by the power of Your redemption and restoration...please bless and comfort me with a holy wholeness of healing that is only possible through You, Jehovah-Rapha, my LORD Who Heals.

Abba Father, I praise You for all that You Are, yesterday, today and tomorrow, and pray all these things in the Name of my Savior, Jesus Christ...

Amen.
Be of good cheer. Your faith has made you well. Go in peace. (Luke 8:48)

Rooted

The strength of a life is in its roots. This is true of a physical tree, and our tree of life. The root system serves to guarantee the existence of the tree. Without healthy roots, a tree system cannot survive. They provide a firm base, an anchor for the whole structure of a tree – the trunk – the branches – leaves – fruit. They are all dependent on that healthy root system. One of the primary functions of the root system is to draw water and nourishment from the soil to feed on. This will allow our roots to grow deep to firmly establish and define us. 

To live the abundant life of a believer, we must be firmly rooted in God’s love and grace. But first, we must remove and let go of the toxic things that hinder us from being who God created us to be. Shame has no room in the life of a believer. Beloved, please understand that our past does not define us. The sins that hurt us whether ours or someone else’s perpetrated against us are not who we are. They kept us from being who God created us to be causing us to adopt unhealthy coping mechanism and put up walls around our hearts to keep from being hurt. These walls kept everyone else out including God. Addiction, sexual sin, trauma, neglect, abuse, violence, betrayal, unmet needs may not be able to be erased from our minds, but we can be free of their damaging effects on our souls. 

God sets us free by helping us walk through and process the pain, grieve losses, remove all the lies we have believed about ourselves and others, enabling us to offer and receive forgiveness. This releases us from the bondage of being a byproduct of our past. With certainty, research confirms we are affected by negative and hurtful experiences in our history. However, because of Christ’s sacrifice and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, we don’t have to be a slave to our past any longer. 

Jesus sets the captives free and firmly plants us in the nourishing soil of His unfailing love and grace so that our roots will grow deep in the truth of who we are in Him, so when the storms of life come we will not be uprooted.

God Is Love

God is the author and originator of love. HE IS LOVE. It is because of His love that we exist and are also able to love.

There is absolutely nothing that can alter The Father's pure, authentic, unconditional love for His precious children. He will never leave or forsake us. His love cannot be earned; the debt has already been paid in full. His love is based on Who He is, not who we are or what we do or think.

Choose His love. It is a holy, perfect, perpetual gift that guarantees grace and freedom. And it can be unwrapped every day...for eternity.

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.

Romans 5:8
But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Romans 5:10
For if, when we were enemies of God, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!

1 John 4:9
This is how God's love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.

Romans 8:32
He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things?

Romans 8:39
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.

Honored & Loved

If you knew how valuable and treasured you are, you would do all you can to lift others up when they are down, and not want to put them down or try to find fault with them.

If you knew how valuable and treasured you are, you would always encourage others and never discourage them.

If you knew how valuable and treasured you are, you would help people see beyond their present circumstances into a bright and shining future filled with hope because all of us have a bright and shining future anchored in the hope we have in Christ.

If you knew how valuable and treasured you are, you would see people through their brokenness and not their faults because that is how your beloved Father in heaven sees you.

If you knew how valuable and treasured you are, you would pray daily for others, especially the lost, and the unlovable who are seldom on anyone’s prayer list. You would understand that hurting people hurt people and often lash out because they don’t know what to do with the pain they carry inside.

If you knew how valuable and treasured you are, you would know that it is impossible to love others unless you receive God’s love first. We love because He first loved us. (1 John 4:19)
Precious child of the living God, when you know your value and worth in Jesus, you will go from a head knowledge relationship with the lover of your soul to a heart knowledge relationship overflowing with love, mercy, and grace that will freely pour out on others.

You are His treasure! Of so much worth! “See how very much our Father loves us, for He calls us His children, and that is what we are! (1 John 3:1)

Sufficient Grace

Thank You for encouragement and truth in Your Word and Your promise of sufficient grace. I thank You for creating me the way I am and for showing me how to accept even my weaknesses...for this is where You fill in the gap with Your grace and Your power is magnified.

I pray for less of me and more of You....reveal to me new areas where I need refinement of character...sanctify me with Your Holy Spirit and maturate me spiritually, as You bring me from faith to faith...from glory to glory.

Show me Your Ways, Lord. Take all of me and shape me according to Your perfect will...partner with me today and every day, so that others will see You in me...all for Your glory and Your kingdom.

I praise You for Your redemptive gift of Christ so that I may freely receive grace and walk in freedom...in my true, authentic identity. Thank You for Your ongoing transformation in me and for bringing me to where I am today. I praise You, Lord, for all the ways You have chosen to bless me...and I pray that You will enable me to open up even more of my heart to the work of Your hands.

Keep me on Your lighted, anointed and ordained path for my life, Father...and thank You for Your comfort and grace when I lose my footing. I need You...I love You...and I fully trust Your plan and purpose for my life, which belongs to You alone.

I pray this all in Jesus Christ's Holy and Righteous Name,

Amen.

1 Corinthians 2:5
...so that your faith would not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power.

2 Corinthians 12:5
I will boast about such a man, but I will not boast about myself, except in my weaknesses.

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

2 Corinthians 13:9
In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection.

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

2 Corinthians 12:10
That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

The Lord Is Faithful

Do not be afraid. God will not allow the enemy to swallow you up. You are a child of the Living God. He will deliver you, honor you, and will be glorified through you. God is faithful. Even your enemies will see His power.

He will keep you in sickness, and in death. He will be your comfort. He will walk you through the valley, and you will fear no shadow. Hold on to His promises.

Like a compass on a ship set your course and find your way by the promises of God. They will lead you, comfort you, and guide you through the most treacherous path. They will give you direction and wisdom and open up your own understanding to His inerrant Word.

Study God’s Word. It abounds with nuggets of courage. It will strengthen you and help you, and fill you with everlasting life and peace.

Matthew 6:13
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

1 Corinthians 1:9
God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

Deuteronomy 7:9
Know therefore that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments.

Reckless Words

When others criticize us, as difficult as it may be to accept, God may be using them as ‘heavenly sandpaper” to teach, correct, and refine us.

But constant harsh criticism, the kind that leaves us feeling demeaned, discouraged and devalued can cause emotional wounds, strain relationships, and stunt emotional growth especially when it comes at the hands of those we love and trust the most. We are called to build each other up not tear each other down.

Sadly, those who have a pattern of tearing down may be acting out modeled behavior of harsh criticism from early childhood. Don’t personalize a person’s critical spirit. They are acting out of woundedness causing them to sin against you. Guard your heart against believing lies about yourself, set healthy boundaries to protect yourself, don’t retaliate, hold fast to God’s truth, pray for your offender and release them to Jesus.

You are His precious child. He will lift you up dispelling the lies with the truth of His Word. Let the Balm of Gilead bring healing to your heart. 

"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Colossians 12-17