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Passionate Pursuit
~ Open your heart to the Father today, and allow your mind to be renewed to the good life He has for you.
The key to abundant life here on earth is the passionate pursuit of Jesus. I doubt there will be a single believer who ever reads these words that will doubt that statement. But I also know that we often fail to truly believe that statement in our hearts. If we truly believed that the key to abundant life was passionately pursuing Jesus, most of our lives would look drastically different. My life would look drastically different.
If we truly believed that passionately pursuing Jesus would bring us abundant life, the way we spend our time would drastically change. We would choose pursuing the presence of God over entertainment more often. We would structure most of our worship services differently. We would cease working for the opinion of man and start living for the good pleasure of our Creator. And our lives would look simpler, more joyful, more peaceful, and more like the life of Jesus.
The good news for you and me is that there is grace for us today.
Isaiah 55:6-7 says:
“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that He may have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.”
It’s time for the people of God to wake up to the true purpose for our lives. It’s time that we stop seeking the things of the world and give our lives to the total and wholehearted pursuit of Jesus. And there is grace from on high that God longs to give us today to do so.
The Lord is saying to you and me, “Seek my face” (Psalm 27:8). And we need to reply as David by saying, “My heart says to You, ‘Your face, Lord, do I seek'” (Psalm 27:8). All that stands between you and a radical life transformation is turning away from the cares and pursuits of the world and giving your heart to your heavenly Father. We have a daily opportunity to live in total communion with our Creator, receiving and giving love in everything we do. Jesus paid the ultimate price for you and me to live with the tangible knowledge of God’s love for us. We also have the opportunity every day to live marginal lives where we experience and commune with God part of the time and live for the fleeting and unsatisfying ways of the world the other. The choice is yours today. Will you passionately pursue relationship with Jesus, or will you allow the ways of this world to crowd out parts of your life like weeds blocking you from the refreshing, life-giving presence of the living God?
Take time in prayer [devotion] to listen to your Father, meditate on His promise of abundant life, and chase after wholehearted relationship with Jesus at all costs. May you experience to new levels today the abundant life Jesus died to give you.
True passion for God is always kindled as a response to the catalytic love of God. His passion for us, His pursuit of us, ignites a flame in our hearts that the world can’t put out. If you begin to feel passionless, lukewarm in your faith, ask God for a fresh experience with His love. Ask Him to remind you of His goodness, His provision, His pursuit. And allow His love to reignite the flame of your heart, that you would live with wholehearted devotion to Him. May you discover new passion for God in your life today as your eyes are opened to all the incredible ways He’s at work in you and around you.
_________________
~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/passionate-pursuit-2023/
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A Promised Hope
~ If you are in a season of waiting, don't become discouraged — the Lord always delivers.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 11:1-6
Sometimes it can be hard to grasp how much time passed between events in the Bible. After the Old Testament’s completion, for instance, 400 years passed before God’s next direct revelation.
Let’s put that span in terms we can better comprehend. In 1620, the Pilgrims landed on the shores of what would become Massachusetts. That was 404 years ago. Think of all that has happened since then — everything from the American Revolution to man walking on the moon to the creation of artificial intelligence. God’s people waited that long without a word from the Lord! While many grew despondent, others clung to hope.
Anna, for example, was a widow and prophetess who served at the temple in Jerusalem, waiting for Israel’s redemption. She trusted that “A shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse ... and the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him” (Isaiah 11:1-2). This promised Messiah would bring order, strength, counsel, and wisdom as He delighted in the Lord, and He would make everything right.
Then, at the appointed time, Anna witnessed the miracle of fulfilled prophecy as she gazed into the face of the tiny baby Jesus. In response, she praised and thanked God for being faithful to His promise (Luke 2:38). Like her, we can praise God, secure in the knowledge that God will do all He says He will do.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/a-promised-hope
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Hobby Lobby Founders Show Christians How to Respond to Cultural Animosity
This Salon headline caught my eye: “Hobby Lobby-funded Jesus Super Bowl ads can’t hide the hate that fuels the Christian right.” The article blasted the “He Gets Us” campaign as a “bait-and-switch, trying to lure unchurched people in with a phony message of love and acceptance, only to push them into joining up with the MAGA movement.”
The writer notes that the campaign is partly funded by the Green family and claims that “their life mission, besides getting rich by selling cheap tchotchkes, is to push their brand of far-right Christianity on the country.” The writer then uses more hateful rhetoric as she continues to accuse the family of hatred.
I cannot imagine that she has actually met the Green family. If she did, she would have to know that they are the furthest thing from a hateful threat to our country.
A few years ago, I was privileged to spend some time with them before an event in Washington, DC, at which we both spoke. They were remarkably gracious, humble, and caring. Their extreme generosity has touched millions of lives around the world with compassion and grace.
The night before we met, one of our team members happened to be in our hotel lobby when David Green, the founder of Hobby Lobby, checked in. The receptionist noticed his name tag and asked, “Do you work for Hobby Lobby?”
He smiled and answered, “Yes.”
You are called to this cultural moment:
• Does seeing such animosity against a family that holds historic, orthodox Christian beliefs feel discouraging to you?
• In the face of such rising threats to our faith and our future, do you sometimes feel overwhelmed and wonder if you can make a difference that matters?
My wife and I were discussing this issue yesterday and she noted: We are not responsible for changing the world, only our part of it. We may not be able to impact the “culture,” but we can impact the lives we influence. We are not personally accountable for the direction of our nation, but we are personally accountable for the way we relate to the people we meet today.
God called me into this ministry to speak truth to culture. But while I can write words that will be read by a large audience (for which I am daily humbled and grateful), you can actually live biblical truth in ways that make you the salt and light your part of our world desperately needs.
In fact, God has entrusted to you capacities and influence He has given no one else. He called you to both the place where you live and the time in which you live. If He couldn’t use you in this cultural moment, you wouldn’t be living in this cultural moment. He didn’t commission you to fail — He commissioned you to advance His kingdom through your intercession and influence.
What are some practical ways to be cultural missionaries today?
One: Expect opposition from those who oppose our Lord.
As the “father of lies” (John 8:44), Satan “has blinded the minds of the unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Consequently, to quote my wife again, we should expect lost people to act like lost people. You and I did the same before we experienced the transforming love and grace of God.
Jesus was blunt: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you” (John 15:18). When we suffer for our Savior, we can choose the example of our spiritual ancestors who, when they were beaten for their faith, “left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name of Christ” (Acts 5:41).
Two: Treat others as Christ treats us.
You and I are no better than those who have not yet experienced the grace of God’s love. Thus, following the example of Jesus, we should “pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44), forgiving them as we have been forgiven (Colossians 3:13).
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. observed:
"Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
Three: Share the grace we have received.
When we truly experience God’s love, we cannot be the same. As Pope St. Clement I (AD 35–99) wrote to the Corinthians:
If we review the various ages of history, we will see that in every generation the Lord has offered the opportunity of repentance to any who were willing to turn to Him. When Noah preached God’s message of repentance, all who listened to him were saved. Jonah told the Ninevites they were going to be destroyed, but when they repented, their prayers gained God’s forgiveness for their sins, and they were saved, even though they were not God’s people."
"Accordingly, we should obey His sovereign and glorious will and prayerfully entreat His mercy and kindness. We should be suppliant before Him and turn to His compassion, rejecting empty works and quarreling and jealousy which only lead to death."
And we should share the gifts of grace we have received, remembering Jesus’ promise:
“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Will you be “blessed” today?
______________
~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.denisonforum.org/daily-article/hobby-lobby-founders-show-christians-how-to-respond-to-cultural-animosity/
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The Cicadas Double Emergence of 2024 (light blue & brown):
https://earthsky.org/earth/cicadas-trillions-emerging-2-broods-spring-2024-us/
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Fear Not
"Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or anguish or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?"
"No, in all these things we are more than victorious through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that not even death or life, angels or rulers, things present or things to come, hostile powers, height or depth, or any other created thing will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!"
~ Romans 8:35,37-39
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The Daily Article — February 16, 2024
Is Russia sending nukes to space?
~ How to respond with faith when we’re right to be afraid.
News broke yesterday that Russia is developing a space-based nuclear weapon that “the United States does not have the ability to counter.”
This is what we know so far:
• The weapon would be intended to attack other satellites, potentially crippling space-based surveillance, civilian communications, and the military’s ability to coordinate and control operations.
• To this point, it does not appear that the weapon could be used to target locations on the ground.
• Russia does not appear ready to deploy the weapon at the moment, though it is unclear what their timeline for doing so might be.
• Should Russia — or any other nation — send nuclear weapons into space, it would violate the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. China, Russia, and the United States have all signed that treaty, but it remains one of the few from that era still in effect.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with representatives from the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday to discuss the president’s planned response.
Committee chairman Mike Turner said of the briefing:
“We all came away with a very strong impression that the administration is taking this very seriously and that the administration has a plan in place. We look forward to supporting them as they go to implement it.”
Should we be afraid?
Further details have been withheld in order to protect intelligence sources, and both the administration and Congress have been quick to note that there does not appear to be an immediate threat. Still, the nature of the response to date would seem to indicate that the danger is more than hypothetical.
When asked if he could tell Americans not to worry, Mr. Sullivan replied that it was “impossible to answer with a straight ‘yes.’”
After all, Russia does not necessarily have to use the weapon in order for it to have a potentially catastrophic impact. Simply sending it into orbit would be enough to fundamentally shift the way that other world powers like the US and China see space as a battleground. That’s why the 1967 agreement was signed in the first place.
And though the White House has stated that they do not intend to withdraw from the treaty even if Russia does, the uproar over the mere possibility that Russia will be the first to take that step demonstrates just how fragile those agreements can be.
Christ’s Most Challenging Command:
In times like this, I’m reminded of one of Christ’s most challenging commands: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34).
The Greek phrase typically translated as “do not be anxious” is “me merimnao”, and it carries the idea of being “divided into parts” or “pulled in opposite directions.”
The idea is not that we never feel the emotions of fear or anxiety. After all, God never commands us how to feel. Rather, His instruction pertains to what we do with those emotions and the degree to which we allow them to control our thoughts and actions.
The sin against which we are warned is feeding our anxiety by dwelling on it instead of giving it back to God and trusting that our fears are not greater than our heavenly Father. And while that’s often easier said than done, choosing faith in the midst of fear can make a remarkable difference in how others perceive that faith.
Redeeming Anxiety:
Anxiety is an emotion common to all people, and dealing with fear is a struggle to which all of us can relate, even if the specific cause of concern varies from person to person.
Whether it’s Russian nukes and the threat of World War III, or something closer to home like stress at work or a strained relationship with family, being honest about our fears without letting them pull us in a thousand directions can demonstrate the power and authenticity of the gospel to those who desperately need to encounter both.
So don’t be naïve about the dangers we face, and don’t feel as though you have to act like everything is alright if it’s not. That’s not faith; it’s ignorance.
Instead, let God use those fears as a way of drawing you closer to Him and to remind you that He is still greater than any troubles we face in this world.
That’s how we can escape the anxiety that is ripping so many parts of our world apart and help others learn to do the same.
How stretched do you feel today?
______________
~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.denisonforum.org/daily-article/is-russia-sending-nukes-to-space/
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Hurry Up and Wait
"...but those who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not grow weary; they shall walk and not faint." ~ Isaiah 40:31
We spend many minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years rushing through life only to find ourselves waiting, waiting, and waiting some more. We wait at the doctor's office; we wait at the grocery store; we wait at the post office; we wait at the pharmacy; we wait for our children to grow up and then anxiously wait for them to come home again. Waiting is hard, exasperating work. The fact that we hate to wait has created a "quick fix" society.
We microwave our food; pump our own gas; process our words on a computer; write notes of affection on the internet, not paper; jet to locations far and near; hear news from across the world in fractions of a second; eat out because it takes too much time to cook, and so on.
In our world, waiting is bad. However, in God's world, waiting is good. God has given us many instructions on the necessity of waiting.
Let's look at some of these:
"My soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation." ~ Psalm 62:1
"Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart" ~ Psalm 27:14
"Blessed is he who waits..." ~ Daniel 12:12
"We have waited for Him and He will save us." ~ Isaiah 25:9
"I wait for You, You are my strength; O God, You are my defense." ~ Psalm 59:9
Did you notice the words used by those who wait on God? These are not words of frustration and confusion. These are words of strength, salvation and blessings. Waiting on God, as David, Isaiah and many others learned, means letting go and letting God. It involves study, reflection, prayer, solitude and time apart from the world.
• Spend time giving time to God.
• Block out a section of your calendar for the Son of Man.
Then sit quietly...and wait on God!!!
________________
~ published by: The Daily Encourager
~ To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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The Impact of Forgiveness
~ God's grace and kindness to us should naturally flow to others.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 18:21-35
When Peter asked Jesus about forgiveness, he probably thought he was being generous by asking if seven times was enough. In a place and time where grace and mercy were in short supply, the disciple likely felt himself incredibly charitable. So imagine his surprise when Jesus replied, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but 70 times seven” (Matthew 18:22).
Jesus then shared the parable of a slave who owed the king a great debt. The king felt compassion, released him, and forgave the debt. But later, the man found someone who owed him a smaller amount. Rather than extend a portion of the grace he’d received, the slave demanded payment and punished the other man until he could pay it all. Hearing of this wickedness, the king called back the slave who had shown no mercy to a fellow worker. Then the king withdrew his generous offer and handed the slave over to jailors to work off every single denarius he owed.
May an unmerciful mindset never be true of us.
When we truly grasp the depth of what Jesus did on the cross (Colossians 2:14), we should be eager to grant and freely share that gift with others. Forgiveness becomes a natural outpouring of the indwelling power of God within us, allowing us to forgive to the extreme — just as we are forgiven.
______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-impact-of-forgiveness
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Renewal of Perspective
~ May God give us the power and courage to choose the right perspective today, to see the world and our lives through His eyes.
This life is like a gust of wind, strong and tangible, but as fleeting as it is real. Tragically, most of us spend the majority of our lives just trying to find out why we’re here. We ask:
• What’s our purpose?
• What’s the point of all this?
• What’s the meaning of life?
While Scripture is clear that this life is fleeting, God also makes it abundantly clear that what we do with our lives here is of eternal significance. We have incredibly important things to do and little time to do them. So, to truly live life to the fullest as God desires for us, to make the impact we alone can make in this life, we need a clear understanding of how fleeting and important our lives are. We need a renewal of perspective.
1 John 2:17 says: “The world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”
God has a plan for you and a will for your life. Your abilities, mind, heart, and hands are of incredible importance to Him.
Ephesians 2:10 says: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Your heavenly Father has works prepared for you that only you can accomplish. He has plans for you that He does not have for anybody else. But He has also given you the ability to lead your own life. Every day you have the choice to surrender your life to the lordship of Jesus and follow the guidance of His Spirit. Or, you can choose to go through life being your own boss, making decisions and plans on your own without His guidance. Only one choice will lead you to a life spent co-laboring with God and making an eternal impact. Only one choice will lead you to the joy and purpose you were created for. Only one choice will assure you at the end of your days that you made a deep and lasting impact with your life.
You see, there isn’t enough time to waste any part of your life pursuing the things of the world. There aren’t enough days to spend even a single one building your kingdom instead of God’s. And your life will be measured by the way in which you loved God and others, not by the weight of your possessions, accolades, or status.
Jesus commands us in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Jesus illustrates an often-missed point here: the value of your life is your heart. God is the Creator of all treasure, of everything beautiful, but His prized possession is your heart. His deepest longing is for your affections. He knows that when you give your heart to the world, to pursuing earthly objectives, you will miss out on the peace and purpose of living your life with a constant eternal perspective. Scripture tells us that though we are here on earth, this is not our home. We are called to live here with urgency, maintaining a renewed perspective of our time.
Paul writes in Ephesians 5:15-17: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”
• Will you live your life in light of God’s will for you or your own?
• Will you surrender your heart to the Lord every day?
The choice is entirely up to you. You have both the Holy Spirit and the world vying for your heart. But only God will reward your affections with His own. Only God gave up His life entirely out of His unending devotion and love for you. All you have to do to live fully for God is encounter the love of your heavenly Father each day and live in response to that love by loving Him and others. When you are faithful to listen, God is faithful to guide you day to day and season to season. His kingship demands our obedience, and His love stirs our hearts until obedience to Him is natural. Experience both the majesty and love of your King today. Let the Holy Spirit lead you to a life of radical, loving obedience. Allow the Spirit and the Word to renew your perspective on the purpose of your life. And choose today to live with eternal perspective by loving your heavenly Father and others.
This life requires a daily process of confession, forgiveness, and commitment. Daily we need to gain fresh perspective on what really matters. Constantly throughout our day we need to remind ourselves of why we were created. Engage in this process, encounter the grace of God as you make mistakes, and live your life pursuing all that God has in store for you. You can never experience the same peace, purpose, and grace-filled love anywhere else as you will living fully surrendered to God. God will never forsake you or reject you. He has only love for you. Choose Him over the world today and experience the life you’ve been longing for.
_________________
~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/renewal-of-perspective-2023/
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The University of Adversity
"We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed." ~ 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
It’s hard to find anyone in Christian history who became a great leader without earning an advanced degree at the "University of Adversity". John Bunyan (1628-1688), the author of "The Pilgrim’s Progress", grew up in poverty and taught himself to read. As a young man, he struggled with feelings of not being forgiven by God and was tortured by visions of eternal punishment. His devout wife helped him to overcome his fear, but then, while she was still in her twenties, she died of a sudden illness. In his grief, Bunyan devoted himself to preaching. The English government, however, repeatedly imprisoned him for preaching without a license.
On one occasion, Bunyan was sentenced to three months in prison, but when he told the officials he intended to go on preaching, his sentence was extended to 12 years. John Bunyan experienced God’s presence in a special way while he was in prison. In fact, it was in his cell that he penned his enduring classic, "The Pilgrim’s Progress". It’s a book that could only have been written by a soul that was refined by the fires of adversity.
God has a mission for your life and mine. But before we can carry out that mission, we will often go through the boot camp of adversity. If this is where you find yourself today, ask God to give you His grace to walk through this time with you. He promised He would never leave or forsake us.
______________
~ published by: The Daily Encourager
To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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On Glorious Display
~ Our Creator lovingly crafted each of us into a masterpiece to reveal His glorious love.
Scripture Reading:
"I will praise You because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, and I know this very well." ~ Psalm 139:14
Did you ever study Vincent van Gogh’s famous painting “The Starry Night”? It’s a captivating blend of circles and swirls that form a dreamlike sky. On one level, it’s intriguing to picture yourself in the scene and imagine the vivid sights and gentle breeze implied by the curling forms. But if you look more closely, you’ll begin to see nothing about the painting is haphazard. Every stroke of blue, yellow, green, white, and purple is unique and intentional, creating contrast between sky and stars. The combination of colors brings depth and richness to the composition, and each hue is enriched because it exists in harmony with those around it.
As beautiful as van Gogh’s masterwork might be, it pales in comparison to what the Creator has accomplished in us, His beloved children. We believers are each a unique blend of personality, gifts, and experiences that God has mixed together and continually applies so we simultaneously enhance and are enhanced by those around us.
What an honor it is to be God’s handiwork!
While every Christian is a small piece of the whole of creation, we never lose our distinctiveness or get lost in the grandeur of the big picture. Quite the contrary — God knows exactly where we are and keeps us in mind as He adds others to His magnum opus.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/on-glorious-display
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Renewal of Conscience
~ May God empower us to see ourselves the way He does as we spend meaningful time in His presence today.
Our conscience is a window revealing how we view ourselves and, most importantly, our relationship with God. One of the worst effects sin has is distorting our view of ourselves in relation to God. The devil’s plan with sin was always to separate us from God, so Jesus came to the earth to destroy the power of sin in our lives. He came so that we might have restored relationship with our heavenly Father. But still sin persists. Even though the power of sin was broken, its effects destroyed, we often still live with an unclean conscience. We feel that God is angry with us, that He doesn’t want to be with us, or that we can’t come before Him and sit at His feet. Your conscience affects your relationship with God either negatively or positively. It will either lead you to God’s throne room or away from His presence. Your heavenly Father’s desire today is that you would come to see yourself as He does, that your conscience would be wiped clean, and that sin and lies would separate you from Him no longer.
Hebrews 10:19-23 contains an important truth for us today. Scripture says:
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that He opened for us through the curtain, that is, through His flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”
Let the truth of Scripture sink into your heart. Hebrews tells us that our confidence to come before God is found in the blood of Jesus. Through His death, Jesus paved the way for you and I to come before the throne of God with confidence and full assurance of faith. God’s desire today is that our conscience’s would be “sprinkled clean” with the powerful blood of our Savior.
So, let’s dive even deeper into how God sees us today. Let the truth of His word further mold our identities until they are perfectly aligned with His perspective:
Galatians 3:26-28 says, “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 3:20 says, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Thessalonians 5:5 says, “For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness.”
1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”
And Colossians 1:21-22 says, “And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him.”
Your heavenly Father sees you as He sees Jesus. Many Christians believe that while they are clothed with Christ, they’re still dirty and sinful on the inside. But don’t be deceived. At salvation you were made completely new:
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ Jesus, he is a new creation.”
God didn’t trick Himself with the death of Jesus. He sees you completely. And when He looks at you, He sees the blood of Jesus running through your veins. He sees you as His clean and holy child. Through the death of Jesus, you can see God with unveiled face:
2 Corinthians 3:16-18 says, “But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
You can see and know God freely and fully. In fact, that’s God’s greatest desire. He longs for us to know Him. He longs for us to encounter the depth of His love and affections for us every day.
• Sit at the feet of your loving heavenly Father with the knowledge that there is nothing in the way of you and Him.
• Spend time with Him allowing the truth of how He sees you to renew your conscience.
May your conscience, renewed in Him, lead you freely and consistently to the throne of God.
Whenever you feel like something is in the way of you and God, take a minute to reflect on your conscience. Ask yourself, “Do I feel worthy to be with God? Is something leading me away from Him instead of to Him?” Ask the Spirit to renew your conscience in that moment. Spend a minute gaining God’s perspective. Confess whatever sin you committed to God, and allow His forgiveness to draw you near. Nothing could be more important than spending time with your heavenly Father with a clean conscience that you might experience the fullness of His affection for you.
________________
~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/renewal-of-conscience-2023/
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Finding True Rest
~ God is faithful to deliver those who trust Him for help.
Scripture Reading:
"I am at rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will never be shaken." ~ Psalm 62:1-2
Have you ever carried a heavy object for so long that your arms start to burn from its weight? You count the steps until you can finally set it down, and when you do, relief floods your body as the pain subsides. We can feel something similar in our spirit when we surrender our burdens to the Lord.
David understood this kind of relief well. With his enemies in relentless pursuit, he was forced to hide to save his life. The weight he carried was evident as he cried out in distress, “How long, Lord? Will You forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). Yet, through his extended season of challenges, David experienced God’s faithfulness as well as His consolation in the anguish.
Remembering that God is faithful will bring release from the weight of our worries. So let’s hold to the perspective that God is at work and keep our eyes fixed on the solution rather than the problems. Then, like David, we will be able to say, “I will never be shaken” (Psalm 62:2).
While you are learning to release your burdens, be sure to talk to God in prayer (Psalm 62:8) and wait in hope for Him (Psalm 62:5). And never forget that He is your rock and salvation.
That is true relief.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/finding-true-rest
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I've been reading through the Book of Jeremiah for the past month, and I agree with you on the resemblance of the peoples of Israel turning their back on the LORD God who saved them time-after-time, and with the today's people of the USA. In spite of all the wickedness that the people did, Jehovah - their God, continued to give them opportunities to turn-back to Him, and He would relent on the destruction that was about to happen to them. I believe - like then - God is giving the USA similar opportunities to repent, and turn away from our iniquities - or, in His wrath our nation will be destroyed. As "Christians", it is our duty - as it was Jeremiah's - to sound the alarms to all of those within our "circle of influence" that the time to repent has never been greater than it is today.
Thanks for the shared Word brother Plugger!
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Renewal of Purpose
~ May the Holy Spirit reveal within us the true reason we were created, and guide us down the path of purpose today in His presence.
You and I were born with a deep desire to live with purpose. As children, we dream of doing something significant with our lives. We dream of being a person who makes a difference in the world. Inherent in all of us is a longing to make a deep and lasting impact. Our longing for purpose only becomes a problem as we begin seeking out its source. Most of us live our lives in constant pursuit of finding out why we’re here, seeking the answer to the question: “What am I uniquely made for?” And we look for the answers in all the wrong places. We look for our purpose in each other, in the ever-changing whims of society, or internally, in what seems to make us feel good in the moment. But God has a better purpose for our lives than we could ever find in the world. He has a purpose so great, so powerful, and so lasting that when we get a glimpse of it, we will forever be changed. God has a page in His grand narrative written just for you, to use you to make a unique and eternal impact on the earth.
Jeremiah 29:11 says:
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Let us not miss the importance of what God would reveal to us today because we’ve heard something before. Instead, let’s dive in deeper and see what God’s Word would reveal to us about that purpose. In John 15:16 Jesus says, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide.” You are chosen by God. You aren’t secondary to someone else in God’s kingdom. He has formed you and chosen you to “go and bear fruit.” And Jesus desires that our fruit would “abide.” He has chosen you to make a lasting impact on the earth.
So, what lasting fruit does God intend for you here?
Answering this question should start with the Words of Jesus. Allow God’s commandments to lay the defining foundation of your purpose. In response to the question of what the greatest commandment is, Jesus replies, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30-31). Your purpose here on earth is to love God and love others. God has chosen to use love to bring about salvation. He’s chosen to use love as the catalyst for spiritual awakening. It’s love that is God’s driving force, and it’s love that He longs to instill in us as our highest goal. Understand today that you are formed and called to love above all else.
Scripture also tells us that we have been chosen to be carriers and ministers of the kingdom of God. Jesus said in Mark 1:15, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” God’s kingdom is here on earth. And Revelation 5:10 says, “You have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” We are not purposed to merely suffer and wait for heaven. God’s kingdom is here on earth, and we are His workmanship. We are His priests. Acts 26:16 says, “Rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you.” Matthew 28:19 says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,”
Your life here is of eternal value.
A life spent simply waiting for heaven is a life wasted. God has placed an eternal purpose on your life, a purpose meant to be pursued and lived out every minute of every day. You don’t have time to waste. And the compelling truth is, you will never be satisfied until you devote your life to ministering this incredible gospel of restoration and love. Until you pursue seeing God’s kingdom come through your job, relationships, and time, you will never experience the joy and passion only God’s purpose can bring you. God doesn’t have a cookie-cutter mold He tries to fit all believers into. He’s formed you for a specific and unique purpose no other believer will be able to accomplish. His plans for you are your own and no other’s. So, choose today to live your life for your heavenly Father. Work with Him in all that you do. Love Him and others with every fiber of your being. And experience the joy of making a deep, eternal impact with all that you do. May God renew your sense of purpose today.
• What will God say about your life when you get finished here?
• Will your life have been spent in pursuit of Him and His kingdom, or, in building up a small kingdom here that will pass away like the changing of seasons?
• Will your life be of fleeting or eternal impact?
Only you can choose how you will live your life. May you make the choice today and every day to live the only life that truly matters. God has incredible plans and purposes in store for you if you will simply open your heart and your hands to Him and say, “Use me.”
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/renewal-of-purpose-2023/
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Learning to Stand Still
"...Stand firm and see the Lord’s salvation He will provide for you today;" ~ Exodus 14:13
The Israelites had just left 400 years of slavery in Egypt. They had fled to the desert, but they had come to a dead end at the Red Sea. Word reached them that Pharaoh had changed his mind. He was sending his troops to recapture the Israelites. They cried out to their leader Moses, complaining that he had brought them that far only to die in the desert.
Learning when to move and when to stand is the greatest challenge for a believer. We are trained for action. We are not trained to sit idly and wait. We are trained to solve problems, not wait for them to resolve themselves. However, God says there are times to wait. We are to wait until He says go. If we go before He says go, we likely will make our situation worse.
If the Israelites had attempted to cross the Red Sea before it parted, they would have drowned. If they had fled north to try to avoid the Egyptians, God would not have moved in a miraculous way. God cannot work on our behalf if we continually try to solve our problem when He has instructed us to stand still. Standing still is sometimes the greatest action we can do, although it is the most difficult thing to do in the Christian walk.
Stand still when He says stand and see the deliverance of the Lord!
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~ published by: The Daily Encourager
To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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The Renewal of Your Mind
~ May God guide each of us down the path to renewing our minds in His presence, and through His Word today, that we might experience a greater measure of abundant life in Him.
The mind is the vehicle in which thoughts and ideas become emotions, beliefs, and actions. You hear things every day that attempt to influence the way you see yourself and your life. Advertising tells you that you are constantly in need of something bigger and better to be happy. People tell you who you are and what you should do based only on their limited perspectives. You also have a very real enemy who hates you, working to convince you that you aren’t worth love, you’re good at nothing, and you’ll never amount to anything.
But God, because of His incredible love for you, has given you the Holy Spirit and His Word.
He’s given you the ability to renew your mind to the truth of how He sees you and feels about you, the truth of who you really are. Every day, you have the chance to experience the much-needed renewal of your emotions, perspectives, and beliefs. Every day, God longs to speak the truth of your identity through His Word and Spirit.
So, let’s look today at the power of renewing our minds and how we can consistently experience that renewal.
Romans 12:1-2 says:
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.”
When we renew our minds, we are presenting ourselves as worship to God. You worship God when you choose to believe His Word over others’ words. You love God when you trust Him over your feelings and limited perspective. And when you renew your mind, you are conforming no longer to the world, with its destruction and many lies. God puts conforming to the lies of the world and renewing your mind to the truth in stark contrast.
Romans 8:5-6 further illustrates the point:
“For those who live according to the flesh think about the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, about the things of the Spirit. For the mind-set of the flesh is death, but the mind-set of the Spirit is life and peace.”
When you set your mind on the Spirit, you will begin to experience life in your thoughts. Your way of thinking will be transformed from being negative and destructive to positive and responsive to God’s boundless love and grace. What you choose to trust and believe will impact every area of your life for either good or bad.
So, in light of the incredible promises of God’s Word, how can you experience the fruit of renewing your mind? How can you continually set your mind on the things of the Spirit?
First, you have to make time to open your mind and heart to Scripture every day. The best time to experience renewal in your mind is when you first wake up. Every morning, you can lay the foundation for what you will believe and how you will think for the rest of the day.
Second, you have to read Scripture while listening to the Holy Spirit. Scripture will come alive when you spend time reading it with the guidance and teaching of the Spirit. In John 14:16-17 Jesus says:
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. He is the Spirit of Truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesn’t see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be in you.”
Spend time allowing your Helper, the Spirit of Truth, to reveal the ways in which He desires to apply Scripture to your life. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your Teacher as you read.
Third, you have to live in obedience to God’s Word. The Bible isn’t merely historical, but a book full of practical and applicable truth that has the ability to change your life. When you open your heart to God’s Word and choose to believe it, you will experience transformation. When you obey God’s commands, they will bear incredible fruit in your life. God’s Word is meant to direct you to the abundant life He has planned for you. Have faith in the Words of Scripture. Choose to believe God’s promises.
Last, you must see yourself in light of God’s Word. You have the choice to believe God or not.
The Bible says incredible things about your identity in Christ:
“He made the One who did not know sin to be a sin offering for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” ~ 2 Corinthians 5:21
The Bible says that you are God’s child, that you are worth the death of Christ and that you are free from the bondage of sin and the world. Those are powerful promises. But in order for you to experience the fullness of what Scripture says, you must renew your way of thinking to be like God’s. Paul says that “we have the mind of Christ” as people born of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:16).
So, set your mind every day on the things of God. Read Scripture with the help of the Spirit, walk in obedience to God’s Word, and see yourself as God does. If you will do these things daily, your entire outlook on life will be one of contentment, joy, purpose, and abundance.
• Where do you need to renew your mind today?
• What area of your life seems to be plagued by negativity, insecurity, or anger?
Spend time reading God’s Word with the Holy Spirit. Receive revelation from the very God who authored the Word you’re reading. Meditate on the Words that stand out to you, and allow them to change the way you think, feel, and act. Experience renewal today in your way of thinking, and watch as renewing your mind changes your entire day for the better.
How great is the love of God that He would give us the incredible gift of His Word to mold and shape us! Your heavenly Father loves you too much to let you stay where you are. Every day He has a plan to lead you into more and more abundant life. When you wake up, take a minute to ask yourself what you want your day to be like. What sort of life do you want to live today? Then ask the Spirit to help you renew your mind to God’s Truth so you can live that life. Walk in freedom today. Live with your mind set on the Spirit. And experience the incredible life God has planned for you as His child. You’ll never have a better day than one where your mind is renewed to the Truth of God’s unfathomable love.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-renewal-of-your-mind-2023/
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James: The Recipe For Victory Part One: Ore to Gold
"Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing." ~ James 1:2-4
The worldly perspective about winning is clear. We measure winning by what we accumulate:
Fame. Money. Followers. Our success is measured by the physical treasures we put in our storage sheds.
On the other hand, the Biblical view of winning is not about what we can accumulate but who we are:
Character. We win life by being, not by getting. True victory is about learning to encounter our trials with character.
Only by taking this view of success can we celebrate struggle. Like ore refined by pressure, we become who we are by facing our trials with courage and a proper perspective. Coal is turned into diamonds by the stress put upon it. And the same is true for us.
If we take the earthly view of success, it makes sense to avoid pain as a priority. What accumulation is there in suffering? What tangible prize do we get from our sorrow? In a strictly practical sense, our suffering has no market value. It is a setback. Endurance is an obstacle to be diminished rather than an opportunity to grow.
But in God’s economy, suffering is a path. Trials are a testing ground, an arena to develop and exercise our character.
James tells us to “consider it joy” when we encounter trials because winning requires a test. James presents life as a championship match. An opportunity to overcome self-seeking and choose instead to walk with the Lord. To endure and persevere and overcome when we encounter trials.
We are ore being refined into gold. We are not pirates gathering treasure. We are people becoming treasure. Pursuing the character and perspective of God. The opportunity presented is for us to become complete, to be all God created us to be. Material wealth ends up in a landfill, but spiritual wealth is a gold that endures.
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~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/ore-to-gold/
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Why God Closes Doors
~ We may not always understand what God allows, but we can always trust who He is.
Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 10:23-24
Yesterday we discussed closed doors. Now let’s look at some reasons why God might block our way.
Closed doors:
1. Prevent mistakes.
Just because a path is clear doesn’t mean it’s the one God wants us to follow. Sometimes we won’t have the information we need to make a wise decision, so He bars the way either spiritually or physically. The Holy Spirit can see the whole road map for our life, which is why we are to follow His guidance.
2. Redirect our walk.
Sometimes God has a different opportunity in mind — one that will yield bigger fruit, more contentment, and greater impact for the kingdom.
3. Test faith and build perseverance.
Waiting for the Lord to speak or act is hard. But we’ll learn wisdom, patience, and trust by pausing prayerfully until He reveals His will.
4. Buy us time.
God may temporarily hold shut an opportunity for service until a believer is properly equipped for kingdom work.
Despite the repeated references to “closed doors” in this devotion, the real message is that God opens doors. He has created a perfect pathway for us to follow. Keep your feet on it, and you will walk over thresholds leading to service, satisfaction, and glory for the Lord. Amen
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/why-god-closes-doors-2
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Empty No More
~ Are you restless and yearning for something you can't identify? Spend time with God.
Scripture Reading:
"You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." ~ Psalm 16:11
In a posthumously published work called "Pensées" (the French word for “thoughts”), religious philosopher and mathematician Blaise Pascal discussed the hunger mankind feels that can’t be satisfied by human effort. The passage is well worth reading, so let’s take a look at it together.
Pascal wrote:
“What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him ... though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words, by God Himself.”
There’s a reason why life feels empty: God created us with a yearning — one that He alone can satisfy. We can’t be fulfilled until we experience the Lord’s transforming and unconditional love. Jesus said, “I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). In other words, God wants us to feel complete, but that can happen only through a relationship with Him.
We can know joy and contentment when we seek God above all else.
Pray for His guidance, and ask Him to fill your life as only He can:
"O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for You. My soul thirsts for You; my whole body longs for You in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen You in Your sanctuary and gazed upon Your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise You! I will praise You as long as I live, lifting up my hands to You in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise You with songs of joy." ~ Psalm 63:1-5
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/empty-no-more
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The New Covenant Prophecy Fulfilled
“Look, the days are coming” — this is the Lord’s declaration — “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. This one will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt — a covenant they broke even though I had married them” — the Lord’s declaration. “Instead, this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days” — the Lord’s declaration. “I will put My teaching within them and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be My people. No longer will one teach his neighbor or his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they will all know Me, from the least to the greatest of them” — this is the Lord’s declaration. “For I will forgive their wrongdoing and never again remember their sin.” ~ Jeremiah 31:31-34
God established the "New Covenant" with all peoples - not just the nation of Israel. The "New Covenant" is through the sacrificial death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The writing upon our hearts of the "New Covenant" is by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to those that have accepted the "New Covenant" through Jesus Christ.
If you have not yet received this "New Covenant" of God, then send me a message, and together we will explore this wonderful and free gift from God.
Be blessed my friends!
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Confronting a Closed Door
~ When God closes a door, He will always open a better one.
Scripture Reading: Acts 16:5-10
• Have you ever faced a closed door?
• It’s extremely frustrating, right?
The apostle Paul knew exactly how that felt. On his second missionary journey, he repeatedly found the way blocked by the Holy Spirit. Eventually the apostle arrived in Troas with nothing but the sea in front of him and closed doors behind.
It must have seemed strange to Paul that God would prevent him from spreading the gospel. But instead of getting angry or trying to force his way into new territory, Paul waited for the Lord’s direction. The Bible doesn’t tell us how long he and Timothy lingered in Troas, but the apostle didn’t move until the Lord revealed the entrance to a new mission field.
If you’re in a period of waiting, try doing what Paul did. Look at your situation as a chance to seek God’s purpose and guidance. Ask the Lord why He has barred the way forward — perhaps the timing is wrong or there’s some unconfessed sin to deal with. Whatever the reason, it’s important to be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading — and to be ready for the door that will open.
When an opportunity is blocked, God has a reason. He is providing love and protection, even when we don’t see it. And He’s keeping His promise to work everything for our good:
"We know that God works together in all things for the ultimate good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose." ~ Romans 8:28
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/confronting-a-closed-door
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From the Pastor’s Heart – February 2024
~ The apostle Paul learned to trust God always, and you can too.
Here in Atlanta, Georgia, we’re noticing that even in winter, when the rosebushes are dormant, they still have their thorns. Isn’t that how it can be in the spiritual life? Some trials persist, though we plead with God to bring them to an end. But His grace carries us through. We pray that the following message from Dr. Stanley will encourage you to endure tenacious problems in your life — just as Paul endured his “thorn.”
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As a pastor, I’ve often helped people walk through trying times. Some responded by drawing closer to the Lord, growing in trust and dependence on Him. But I’ve also seen people give up, saying, “If this is the Christian life, I don’t want anything to do with it.”
• How do you respond in tough times?
• Are you confident that the Lord knows what He’s doing and will bring you through it?
• Do you begin to doubt that He loves you?
• If the outward evidence that He’s working on your behalf isn’t apparent, do you still trust that He is?
Most Christians I’ve met would like to trust God in every situation, but it’s not always easy.
Jesus didn’t promise us a problem-free life. In fact, He said the opposite: “In Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation” (John 16:33).
This is our reality, but if we keep our focus on Him instead of our troubles, we can endure anything thanks to His perfect peace. Isn’t that what we want?
The apostle Paul endured unimaginable suffering, but he never gave up on the Lord.
At one point, he was so afflicted by what he called “a thorn in the flesh” that he fervently begged God three times to remove it (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Yet the only answer he received was, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (v. 9).
How would you feel if after praying for relief, God gave you that answer?
No promise of a change in circumstances, just the grace to go through them. What if the situation went on for years? Could you respond like Paul, saying, “Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me” (v. 9)?
Thorns teach us that God’s grace is sufficient.
When we’re at our weakest, without control of the situation, we must rely on the Lord and His strength. And He always comes to our rescue. Sometimes He rescues us from the situation. But other times, deliverance comes through His superabundant grace to go through the trial for as long as it lasts.
God’s grace is His provision for us at the point of our need. Not almost enough, but all-sufficient, overflowing provision. No matter how long or how great the trouble or suffering, the Lord will strengthen us to walk through it. Not with defeated resignation, but with confident assurance.
Troubles are opportunities to learn contentment.
After hearing God’s reason for letting the “thorn in the flesh” remain, Paul responded, “Therefore, I delight (am content) in weaknesses, in insults, in distresses, in persecutions, in difficulties, in behalf of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong” (v. 10).
You’re probably wondering how you could ever be content with these things. Well, you can’t manufacture it with pep talks. It comes only through God’s grace working in your life.
Paul had to learn contentment (Philippians 4:11-13). It had nothing to do with favorable circumstances, but with his focus. If we fixate on the problems, they’ll grow insurmountable in our eyes. But when our minds are centered on the Lord and the truths of His Word, we’re able to accept every circumstance, knowing that He’s sovereign, His grace is sufficient, and He walks with us through it.
Difficulties stimulate spiritual growth.
How many spiritual lessons have you learned when life was easy? Probably not many. It’s usually in the darkest periods of life that we grow the most because all distractions are stripped away, and the Lord is the only one who can help us. After passing through the valley with Him at our side, we come out with a more accurate understanding of the Lord and His ways and deeper trust in His sovereign choices for our lives.
Isn’t it a great encouragement to know that you can walk through thorny experiences in a way that transforms your life and glorifies God?
You have the promise of His sufficient grace and strength to handle whatever comes your way. So trust Him, and let each trial be an opportunity to experience the peace of Jesus Christ, learn contentment, and grow in spiritual maturity.
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We’re always blessed to remember Dr. Stanley’s grace under pressure. He not only observed the trials of others but experienced many of his own during his long ministry.
May you find patience in your difficulties and know that you are not alone: “The family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings” (1 Peter 5:9). Till next time, God bless you.
For His Glory,
Your Friends at In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/from-pastors-heart/february-2024
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God's Plan for Renewal
~ May God teach and guide us into daily renewal as we make space every morning for Him to fill.
God has an incredible plan for renewal in your life. He knows better than anyone the trials, circumstances, and people that wear you down. And He knows that you need time to be refreshed by Him. Often, we seek rest and renewal from people and entertainment. Our friends, family, and entertainment can be great sources of fun and rest to be sure, but the only consistent and true source of renewal we have is spending time with our heavenly Father. Only He knows to the full extent what you need. And only He can give it to you. So, before we dive into the process of having specific areas of our lives renewed by God this week, let’s allow Him to simply reveal how to rest in His Word and presence.
First, let’s look at what Scripture says about our need for renewal. 2 Corinthians 4:16 says, “Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” Because of the nature of sin and separation from God, we as humans will not live in our fleshly bodies forever. Genesis 3:19 says, “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” But we also have the promise of Jesus in John 11:26 that “everyone who lives and believes in [Him] shall never die.” We live on the earth knowing one day our earthly bodies will pass away, and we will at the same time be taken from this world to the next. But God’s desire is that while you are here in this body you would be renewed in your spirit every day. Though your body will grow weary, He desires to strengthen your spirit with the hope of an everlasting life with an all-loving God who cares for you. You can meet with God every day. You’ve been given the ability through the Spirit to rest in God’s presence, to know His nearness and love. You can have the same experience as Paul in being “renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16).
So, how can we experience God’s promised renewal? How do we rest in God’s presence and allow Him to revive us?
First, it starts with trusting that God will reveal His love to you when you meet with Him. In Jesus’ high priestly prayer in John 17, He asks God to love us with the same love with which He loves Jesus (John 17:26). When you ask Him to show you His love, He will. When you make space to encounter Him, He will fill you with His presence. Trust that God loves to meet with you and renew you.
Also, foundational to experiencing renewal is engaging in worship. You and I are created to worship. It is both our highest goal and greatest success. When you engage in worship daily, you will experience a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
Lastly, spend time reading God’s Word, allowing it to change you and lead you to obedience. You must experience renewal in areas of your life that are not aligned with God’s Word. You have to spend time allowing yourself to be shaped and transformed by what God says is best for you. So much of being renewed by God is choosing to believe His Word over our experience of what we feel is true.
Let your faith be stirred to encounter your heavenly Father today. You can earnestly desire to meet with Him without any fear or reservation that you won’t experience His renewal. Know that when you wake up every morning, God has a plan for the time you spend with Him and the ability to reveal it to you through the Holy Spirit.
God earnestly desires to renew you this week. He longs to heal the wounded and dry places in your life. Spend time today meditating on God’s promise of renewal, and allow your desires to be stirred to receive all that your heavenly Father longs to give you.
May the prayer of your heart today be like David’s in Psalm 63:1-3:
“God, You are my God; I eagerly seek You. I thirst for You; my body faints for You in a land that is dry, desolate, and without water. So, I gaze on You in the sanctuary to see Your strength and Your glory. My lips will glorify You because Your faithful love is better than life.”
Just as David looked upon the Lord in His sanctuary, you can see God daily. Just as he beheld God’s power, glory, and love, you can experience God. May you be renewed today as you step out into the world, and may God’s strength be your source as you seek to live in light of His glorious nearness.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/god's-plan-for-renewal-2023/
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Rolling Stone tells the story of Hobby Lobby founders, “He Gets Us,” and God’s love
Given its obvious biases, I don’t usually turn to Rolling Stone for objective reporting on cultural issues. But that fact makes my point today.
The magazine is currently carrying the headline: “This Evangelical Billionaire Family Wants to Convert You on Super Bowl Sunday.” The article profiles the Green family, founders of Hobby Lobby, and their support for “He Gets Us,” a media campaign to share the good news of God’s love.
As expected, the profile puts the family’s positions on birth control, transgender bathrooms, and other moral issues in the worst possible light. But the very fact that Rolling Stone is telling the story of the campaign and its planned ads for Sunday’s Super Bowl advances the campaign’s mission.
The article quotes David Green’s statement in a podcast interview:
"What we’re known as, as Christians, we’re known as haters. We’re beginning to be known as haters — we hate this group, we hate that group. But we’re not. We are people that have the very, very best love story ever written, and we need to tell that love story. So, our idea is, let’s tell the story. As a Christian, you should love everybody. Jesus loved everybody."
Now, through God’s mysterious providence, even Rolling Stone is telling that “love story” to its readers.
Stories change the world.
In a lost culture experiencing a burgeoning crisis of meaning, stories of hope like the "He Gets Us" campaign resonate powerfully.
Conversely, due to the intrinsic power of stories, false narratives can do much harm.
For example, many have been telling children struggling with gender dysphoria the story that they need to “transition” their bodies to align with their preferred gender. No questions or exceptions are permitted. If parents or others disagree, they are castigated as “transphobic” and discriminatory.
Now the New York Times is reporting that, despite this pervasive story, eight in ten cases of gender dysphoria resolve themselves by puberty. In addition, 30 percent of people on gender-transitioning hormone therapy discontinue its use within four years, even though its effects, including infertility, are often irreversible.
Nonetheless, the article notes that advocates for “transitioning” are often so rigid and doctrinaire that they refuse to admit the drawbacks to so-called “gender-affirming care.”
In his book "Social and Cultural Dynamics", the famed Harvard sociologist Pitirim Sorokin distinguished between “ideational” and “sensate” cultures.
He explained that for the latter, “reality is that which can be perceived by the organs of sense.” People with this mentality “try to adapt themselves to those conditions which appear to the sense organs,” believing the world to be whatever they perceive it to be.
By contrast, “ideational” people “do not try to adapt themselves to what now seems superficial, illusory, unreal. They strive to adapt themselves to the true reality which is beyond appearances.”
In the mid-1950s, Sorokin was one of the few scholars to foresee the harmful trends of the sexual revolution that burst into social consciousness in the 1960s. America has clearly shifted from an ideational culture centered in objective truth and biblical morality to a sensate culture driven by subjective opinions and personal pleasure.
Have the trends Sorokin foresaw come to pass?
• Declining birth rates and a diminished parental commitment to the welfare of children.
• Vastly increased erotic content in movies, plays, novels, magazines, television shows, radio programs, song lyrics, and commercial advertising.
• Increased divorce, promiscuity, premarital sex, extramarital sex, homosexuality, spousal abandonment, and out-of-wedlock births.
• A growing increase in juvenile delinquency, psychological depression, and mental breakdowns.
In short, how is our “sensate,” post-truth culture working for us?
The good news is that the Christian story resonates deeply with human beings. Its promise to forgive our mistakes and alleviate our guilt, to give us a new start and an abiding hope, to make our lives abundant and eternally significant, speaks to the “God-shaped emptiness” in us all.
When we experience this transformation personally, our story magnifies the story (John 8:31–32). Then, when we tell our story with compassion and candor, “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), the Spirit speaks to the souls of those we influence.
As missiologist and Oxford University visiting scholar Ed Stetzer notes:
“God has made relationships his chosen delivery system for the gospel of hope.”
David Green explained why "He Gets Us" advertises during the Super Bowl, the most expensive TV event of the year:
“We really feel that we need, as a group of Christians, to tell 350 million people that he cares about you and he gets you.”
How will you join them today?
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~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.denisonforum.org/daily-article/rolling-stone-hobby-lobby-founders-he-gets-us-gods-love/
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To Know Christ
"That I may know Him (Christ Jesus)..." ~ Philippians 3:10
To know Christ is our desire.
To serve Christ is our privilege.
To follow Christ is our goal.
To preach Christ is our calling.
To see Christ is our reward.
Amen.
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~ by Ray Pritchard (https://www.keepbelieving.com)
To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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Ask Confidently
~ Our Father wants us to realize that we can ask for what we need and trust Him to care for us.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:7-11
Throughout the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus had been teaching the crowd how to walk with Him — to be pure in heart, to have mercy, to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:1-48; Matthew 6:1-34). Imagine Him looking around at each person whom He loved so very much. He must have known every laugh line, wrinkle, and scar on their eager faces. Even more amazingly, He also knew their hopes and dreams, their fears and doubts. And so He concluded His revolutionary sermon by saying, “Ask, and it will be given to you” (Matthew 7:7). But did they — and do we — really understand what that means?
Asking the Father for anything requires faith — not only in His capacity to meet our needs but also in His desire to do so. That’s why Jesus reassured His listeners with visible, tangible examples of a fish, snake, loaf, and stone (Matthew 7:9-10). If we want nothing more than to give good things to our loved ones, He says, we can trust that God in His perfect love desires to give us even greater blessings.
When Jesus tells us to ask, He affirms our identity as beloved children. He’s more than able and willing to meet our needs; our part is believing we are loved enough to make a request. Whatever you need today, ask with confidence and thanksgiving, knowing that your prayer will be answered in whatever way He deems best.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/ask-confidently
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Iran is “closer than ever” to a Nuclear Bomb
~ Why this is a global threat, and how Christians should respond.
The world is watching the latest negotiations in the Israel–Hamas war amid ongoing attacks by the Houthis and Hezbollah. In the meantime, we should not miss this headline from the Jerusalem Post: “Iran closer than ever to weaponizing uranium, building nuclear bomb.”
The "Institute for Science and International Security" is sounding the alarm and has upgraded its threat level to “Extreme Danger,” the highest of its six ratings, for the first time since the group began following the Iranian nuclear program in the 1990s. They warn that the country could make enough highly enriched uranium to fashion a nuclear explosive in a week and could build and deliver a weapon in “about six months.”
Why would Iran choose to do so?
And why is this such an “extreme danger” to the world?
At first glance, today’s news seems less than alarming on the assumption that Iran knows a nuclear attack on Israel or the US would lead to a swift and devastating nuclear retaliation against their country.
But this goes both ways: a nuclear-armed Iran would likely feel protected from aggression by its enemies and thus emboldened to escalate its proxy war on Israel and the West. It would pose an immediate threat to countries without nuclear weapons such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia and would probably incite them to seek such weapons, further heightening tensions in the region.
Military action against Iran (likely from Israel) to prevent its acquisition of nuclear weapons would likely escalate the ongoing regional conflict. And there is always the chance of a catastrophic — if not apocalyptic — nuclear accident.
But there’s one other crucial factor we dare not overlook:
An Iranian apocalypse.
As I noted in my book, "The War in Israel", Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) views its ultimate mission as preparing the way for the Mahdi (a Muslim messianic figure) to return and dominate the world for Islam. Preparations for this return escalated after Ayatollah Khamenei assumed the mantle of supreme leader in 1989 and especially in the aftermath of the 2009 anti-regime protests.
The IRGC views the existence of Israel as the “greatest barrier” to the reemergence of the Mahdi. Iran’s hardline clergy now claim that the “Jewish state will be destroyed before Mahdi’s arrival.”
If Iran can employ its regional proxies to force Israelis to abandon Israel, it will have achieved this necessary step in hastening the Mahdi’s return. If this strategy proves unsuccessful, will it turn to direct war with Israel?
If so, given the Israel Defense Forces’ overwhelming military superiority, would Iran utilize a strike-first nuclear weapon?
Bernard Lewis, the Princeton professor and renowned Middle East scholar, warned that the threat of many Iranians perishing in a war does not deter Iran’s leadership, which believes “it would be doing them a favor by giving them a free pass to heaven” as martyrs in a jihad. In a Wall Street Journal article, he added that to Iran’s leaders, an attack on Israel that killed Muslims would only speed them to heaven. And a response that devastated Iran “would have no meaning” since “what will matter will be the final destination of the dead — hell for the infidels, and heaven for the believers.”
For people with such a mindset, Lewis warned, mutually assured destruction “is not a constraint; it is an inducement.” And since many in Iran believe that the Mahdi will kill all the Jews when he comes, some may even believe that he would return to protect them from such retribution.
“Bad ideas have victims”
Israel and the West should obviously respond to this apocalyptic scenario by doing whatever is necessary to keep Iran from possessing nuclear weapons. Christians should also respond by praying fervently for a spiritual awakening that would transform Iran’s leaders from genocidal persecutors to Christ-following peacemakers. (If you doubt such a possibility, remember what Jesus did with Saul of Tarsus.)
But today’s discussion highlights one other point today:
Worldviews change the world.
Thousands have died and millions are being affected by Hamas’s vow to kill the Jews as demonstrated by its October 7 atrocities. From Russia to China to North Korea and Cuba, Marx’s communist ideology continues to impact and enslave millions. Moral relativism is fueling an epidemic of pornography, sexual confusion, drug overdoses, euthanasia, and suicide in the US.
I often quote this observation by my friend John Stonestreet: “Ideas have consequences. Bad ideas have victims.”
But here’s the good news: biblical ideas have victors.
Consider these facts:
"The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. . . .By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward" ~ Psalm 19:7–9, 11
How fully will you experience the “great reward” of your Father today?
________________
~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.denisonforum.org/daily-article/iran-closer-than-ever-to-nuclear-bomb/
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A Different Kind of Slow
~ God's timing is perfect — He doesn't rush and is never late.
Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 3:8-9
Bakers of sourdough bread learn to wait patiently. Sourdough is a “slow” bread that requires more time, effort, and attention than some other kinds. And because it depends on natural processes, it cannot be rushed. The result, though, is worth the patient waiting that it demands.
In a similar way, certain spiritual benefits can be gained only through waiting. For example, some of the early Christians felt frustrated by God’s delay. They had believed Jesus would return very soon, in their lifetimes. But time was moving on, and none of the promises they expected to see fulfilled were coming to pass. In fact, Peter warned believers that mockers would say “all things continue just as they were” (2 Peter 3:4). He reminded the people that our perception of time differs from God’s. For Him, decades and millennia pass like moments and days. So saying God is “slow” to keep His promise suggests a serious misunderstanding.
Not only is God not slow, Peter says, but what seems like slowness is actually God’s patience. Like the sourdough baker, God unhurriedly waits for something better — to see more people accept His gracious gift. We can wait patiently, too, if we understand that God’s delays always lead to something better than we can imagine.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/a-different-kind-of-slow
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The Guiding Light of God’s Deliverance
~ When you are afraid, give God your fears and trust Him to provide the strength and peace you need.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 34:1-7
During times of trial and uncertainty, worry can engulf our heart. But today’s passage serves as an unwavering beacon of hope: “I sought the Lord and He answered me, and rescued me from all my fears” (v. 4). When we feel vulnerable and assailed by doubt, God stands ready to be our guiding light, leading us through the darkness of fear into the comforting embrace of His love.
Like a lighthouse whose beam pierces the night, God’s presence offers reassurance in our life. When we earnestly seek Him, pouring out our fears and worries, He answers with a love that transcends our understanding. In the warmth of His compassion, we find strength to face our fears head-on, knowing we are not alone on a dark sea. God’s deliverance doesn’t mean our circumstances will change. Instead, it offers a transformative inner peace that steadies our mind and heart. It empowers us to walk through life’s challenges with the realization that our faith in Him is stronger than the grip of fear.
Let us take solace in knowing that even when we feel afraid, God is ever-present, guiding us with His divine light. In the darkest moments, His love shines through, illuminating the path ahead. As we seek Him, He becomes our rock, our refuge, and our source of courage.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-guiding-light-of-god-s-deliverance
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Wearing You Down
"Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." ~ 1 Peter 5:8
When I was 14, my dad would allow me to back the car out of the drive and put it under our only shade tree if I agreed to wash and polish it. Since I would do just about anything for the opportunity to drive, the car got washed and polished often.
One day while polishing the front bumper, I was shocked to discover that I was buffing the paint off. I had worn down a spot to the primer. Dad wasn't all that surprised but I was.
That is exactly how Satan works. He wears you down. Watchman Nee explains the work of the devil like this:
"Satan has in fact a plan against the saints of the Most High which is to wear them out. What is meant by this phrase, "wear out"? It has in it the idea of reducing a little this minute, then reducing a little further the next minute. Reduce a little today, reduce a little tomorrow. Thus the wearing out is almost imperceptible; nevertheless, it is a reducing.
The wearing down is scarcely an activity of which one is conscious, yet the end result is that there is nothing left. He will take away your prayer life little by little, and cause you to trust God less and less and yourself more and more, a little at a time. He will make you feel somewhat cleverer than before. Step by step, you are misled to rely more on your own gift, and step by step your heart is enticed away from the Lord.
Now, were Satan to strike the children of God with great force at one time, they would know exactly how to resist the enemy since they would immediately recognize his work. He uses the method of gradualism to wear down the people of God." (Watchman Nee)
But God has promised us hope and we need only to remember the words of Isaiah:
"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." ~ Isaiah 40:31
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~ by Jim Lee
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Letting Go of Anxiety
~ Will you trust God with everything that burdens your heart?
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 5:6-7
Amidst life’s hardships, God lovingly tells us to cast our anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7). He knows our heart and cares deeply about every aspect of our life. As we surrender our fears and worries to Him, we experience the peace that surpasses all understanding and find comfort in His unfailing love.
In a world marked by stress and anxiety, God offers an anchor for our restless souls. Many of us are beset by storms and feel as if we must navigate life’s challenges on our own. But the truth is, we have a heavenly Father who is ever-present and eager to handle our anxieties.
As believers, we’re not exempt from worry, but we are called to approach our fears with a different perspective. That is, we’re invited to shift our focus from the problems surrounding us to the One who holds the universe in His hands. God’s care for His children is not limited to the grandiose; it extends to the tiniest details of daily life.
Casting our anxieties upon the Lord is an act of surrender, which requires acknowledging our limitations and embracing His sovereignty. Though submitting in this way may not eliminate life’s challenges, doing so helps us face them with courage and trust.
_______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/letting-go-of-anxiety
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Good word brother! Thanks for the share!
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Embracing God’s Love in Our Relationships
~ God offers wise guidance for relationships: Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:25-32
Ephesians 4:32 is a heartwarming invitation from God: “Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”
These words serve as a loving blueprint for our relationships and urge us to mirror the Father’s love in our interactions.
God’s instruction is clear: Be kind. Compassion must be the foundation of our actions. It helps us to be tenderhearted and empathetic. Understanding the joys and sorrows of others enables us to create spaces where love thrives and wounds are healed. Christ also taught us to be forgiving — holding a grudge only weighs us down and blocks the freedom that comes with extending forgiveness. But by following God’s example, we break the chains of bitterness and embrace the liberating power of love.
In our daily life, we encounter countless opportunities to practice this divine kindness. A smile to brighten someone’s day, a listening ear to ease a burden, or a gentle word of encouragement — these simple acts can transform hearts and deepen connections. Let us not forget that we are called to love others as God loves us. His love is unconditional, extravagant, and all-encompassing. Today, let Ephesians 4:32 be our guiding light, reminding us to live as we are meant to: full of kindness and love.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/embracing-god-s-love-in-our-relationships
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Godly Living
"You must put away lying, Speak the truth, each one to all, because we are members of one another. Be angry and do not sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger, and don’t give the Devil a foothold. The thief must no longer steal. Instead, they must do honest work with their own hands, so that they will have something to share with anyone in need. No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear. And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit. You were sealed by Him for the day of redemption. All bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander must be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ Jesus."
~ Ephesians 4:25-32
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Victory Over Discouragement
"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He saves those crushed in spirit. Many adversities come to the one who is righteous, but the Lord delivers His children from them all." ~ Psalm 34:17-19
According to legend, the devil once had his tools for sale at a public auction. When the prospective buyers gathered, there was one oddly shaped tool which was labeled "Not for sale". When the buyers asked him to explain why that was, he answered, "I can spare my other tools, but I cannot spare this one. It is the most useful tool I have. It is called Discouragement, and with it I can work my way into hearts that would otherwise be inaccessible. When I get this tool into a person's heart, the way is open to then plant anything there I may desire".
Satan uses discouragement as a means of tempting us to give up. If he could discourage enough Christians to quit and not pursue the work we are doing for God's Kingdom, he would love it because it would mean he would have less threats to worry about!
Satan will try to use negative people, challenging circumstances, heartbreak, health issues, financial problems, or several other things to discourage us. But when discouragement comes, let us cling to the hope we have in today's verse.
First, who is it that will face troubles?
According to Psalm 34, the righteous person will. So, if you are being attacked, then you are doing something right! You are a bigger threat to Satan and all his schemes than you think. Gather strength knowing that greater is HE that is IN you!! God has given you the victory.
Second, when we are attacked (because at one point or another we will be), let us trust that the Lord hears us when we call and will come to our rescue EACH TIME.
Wow… this sends chills up my spine! Let this be a motivation to get back up and keep going. Whatever the task God has set before us, we are not alone. Satan can try all he wants, but we are children of the Almighty King and we will not be shaken because we are standing on Christ our Rock.
Suggested Prayer: Dear God, thank you because you hear me when I call and will come to my rescue. When temptation comes, or discouragement wants to bring me down, I pray you would remind me of who I am in you. Death could not defeat you and that same power is in me through your Holy Spirit. I ask that you reenergize me, motivate me, strengthen me, and allow me to refocus on you and the work that you have set before me. Thank you for never leaving or forsaking me. You are a good and caring Father in whom I can place my trust. In Jesus' precious name I pray, amen.
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~ published by: Daily Encourager
To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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Renewal of Joy
~ May God guide us today into a meaningful renewal of joy as we set our eyes and hearts on Him.
When I think of the word “joy” I often picture the unadulterated smile of a child’s face. Children have this ability to have joy simply because they’ve found the delight of their parents. The joy of a child is unlike anything most of us experience as we grow up. For most of us, true joy has been crowded out by the pressures and cares of responsibility. Joy becomes contingent upon the circumstances of our lives. Most of us feel the pressure of finances, work, relationships, and even serving God consistently to the point that joy is a pursuit we’ve almost given up on. But God has a message and a plan for you for a renewal of consistent and unshakable joy. Let’s open our hearts and minds to dive into everything God has in store for us as we spend time encountering His desire to bring us joy.
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Our joy is not to be of this world, but of God. Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” The fullness of joy will only be found in God’s presence, and the Bible tells us that God’s presence is everywhere! Psalm 139:7-10 says, “Where shall I go from Your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, You are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.” Because God is everywhere and in His presence is fullness of joy, joy is available to you 24/7. And Scripture teaches us in Romans 14:17 that “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” God’s lordship in our lives is all about “righteousness and peace and joy.” Our heavenly Father desires to bring about those incredible fruits of the Spirit in you today. He has a plan to lead you to perfect, unshakable joy. But in order to receive the incredible gift your God wants to give you today; you will have to make a choice to place your hope and trust in Him.
Scripture tells us that our joy is to be wholeheartedly found in God and not in the world.
The joy our heavenly Father longs to bring us is meant to transcend anything this world could ever do to us. But in order for God’s desire to come to fruition in our lives, we have to place our hope and trust solely in Him. Psalm 33:21 says, “Our heart is glad in Him, because we trust in His holy name.” Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
What we place our trust and belief in becomes the rudder that guides our emotions.
If you place your trust in your job, people, or finances, you are building a foundation for your joy that can be crushed at a moment’s notice. But if you will choose today to place your trust and hope in your Lord Jesus Christ, you will have a sure foundation unshakable by any trial or circumstance that comes your way. In fact, those very trials that had the power to destroy your joy will, in God, become yet another source of it.
James 1:2-4 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” When you place your hope and trust in God, your eyes will be opened to see the incredible work He is doing in you through any and every circumstance. Whether you have success in this life or not, you will have joy because your life will be wholly lived with your relationship with God as first priority.
When your goal is to see God’s kingdom come to earth, the circumstances of your job and relationships won’t have the power to shake your joy and satisfaction any longer. You see, God’s plan to is to redeem your life totally and completely. God’s plan is to renew your joy every morning as you place your hope and trust in Him alone.
Spend time today with your heavenly Father doing that very thing. Reflect on your life and see what has had the ability to shake your joy. May your joy become like that of a child’s today, who simply delights in the love of the Father.
“May you be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy” ~ Colossians 1:11
How incredible is the heart of our God that He would consistently and constantly bring us joy!
Our God has such a love for you that He never wants you to go a day without it. He never wants you to have a moment without His unshakable joy. Jesus said in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Experience the abundant life your God has in store for you as you live your life in a wholehearted pursuit of the joy of your good and present heavenly Father.
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~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/renewal-of-joy-2023/
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