“Because He Himself in His humanity has suffered in being tempted, He is able to help and provide immediate assistance to those who are being tempted and exposed to suffering.” Hebrews 2:18 AMP
“In Him we have redemption [that is, our deliverance and salvation] through His blood, which paid the penalty for our sin and resulted in the forgiveness and complete pardon of our sin, in accordance with the riches of His grace.” Ephesians 1:7AMP
Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice for our sin my sisters when He gave Himself over to be tortured and then suffer an intentional affliction, a hardship of pain, indescribable suffering of death upon the cross.
The Bible tells us how God repeatedly gave our ancestors opportunities to live their lives as He had intended, one of freedom and peace as written in Jeremiah 29:11 AMP “For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” However, there were steps they needed to take, and they failed to embrace God’s way as further told in verses 12-14 AMP “Then you will call on Me and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear your voice and I will listen to you. Then with a deep longing you will seek Me and require Me as a vital necessity, and you will find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you,’ says the Lord, ‘and I will restore your fortunes and I will free you and gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you,’ says the Lord, ‘and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.’” This place of exile was and still remains today when we chose the world and culture over God’s truth. Thankfully God gave us the supreme and final way to restore our lives and relationship with Him through Jesus Christ and the redeeming power of His blood.
“For the message of the cross is foolishness absurd and illogical to those who are perishing and spiritually dead because they reject it and chose the sin of this world, but to us who are being saved by God’s grace it is the manifestation of the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 AMP Personalized
“For the remarkable, undeserved grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to reject ungodliness and worldly immoral desires, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives with a purpose that reflect spiritual maturity in this present age, awaiting and confidently expecting the fulfillment of our blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, who willingly gave Himself to be crucified on our behalf to redeem us and purchase our freedom from all wickedness, and to purify for Himself a chosen and very special people to be His own possession, who are enthusiastic for doing what is good.” Titus 2:11-14 AMP
Jesus’ death on the cross provides for eternal redemption, no longer as in the ancient days must we sacrifice yearly a goat, calf, bird of unblemished blood. Jesus’ blood is pure, perfect, flawless belonging to a supernatural God eliminating the need for further sacrifices. His blood covers our sin and provides a redeemed eternal life once your temple returns to the earth dirt. Our spirit is set free to be seat at our King Jesus’ feet. It also provides for the here and now to live free from the bondage of sin. The price paid for you and I is of unmeasurable value….
“For you know that you were not redeemed from your useless spiritually unproductive way of life inherited by tradition from your forefathers with perishable things like silver and gold, but you were actually purchased with precious blood, like that of a sacrificial lamb unblemished and spotless, the priceless blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18-19 AMP
Dear Sisters, let nothing come between what the work of the cross has provided for you…receive it and believe without hesitation that it has been done for you personally. As daughters of the Most High King, surrender any doubt at His feet, ask Jesus to reveal any hidden sin, confess all sin immediately and ask Jesus for help in overcoming sinful habits and thinking.
Right now…”In Him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation, and as a result believed in Him, were stamped with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit, the One promised by Christ, as owned and protected by God. The Spirit is the guarantee, the first installment, the pledge, a foretaste of our inheritance until the redemption of God’s own purchased possession His believers, to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:13-14 AMP
Finally, my sisters I humbly leave you with this verse to fully embrace.. “for He delivered us and saved us and called us with a holy calling a calling that leads to a consecrated life—a life set apart—a life of purpose, not because of our works or because of any personal merit—we could do nothing to earn this, but because of His own purpose and grace His amazing, undeserved favor which was granted to us in Christ Jesus before the world began eternal ages ago, but now that extraordinary purpose and grace has been fully disclosed and realized by us through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus who through His incarnation and earthly ministry abolished death making it null and void and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher of this good news regarding salvation.” 2 Timothy 1:9-10 AMP
“Christ was chosen before the world was made, but He was shown to the world in these last times for your sake. Through Christ you believe in God, who raised Christ from the dead and gave Him glory. So, your faith and your hope are in God.” 1 Peter 1:20-21 NCV
Jesus came to earth with intention, a long time coming with purpose. There was a plan one that would fill the chasm between us and our Heavenly Father. Last Sunday I heard an amazing message from Pastor Ken Squires at Bethel Life Center in Wichita, Kansas. Pastor Ken described the void between us and God as a chasm, that emptiness created in the garden that drove us to hide from God, have doubt or feel rejected. Through time you and I, my sweet sisters, have been trying to build a bridge across that chasm to reach our God. Every time we fail, yes I said that EVERY TIME WE FAIL…
There is only one way to cross the chasm and that is when we recognize and embrace that Jesus’ blood has filled that chasm to overflowing. Ephesians 2:13 NASB says “But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” You see my sisters through His blood the chasm is filled and the opportunity for an intimate relationship with our Father is restored. We can never build a bridge strong enough because our salvation does NOT come in “doing” because Jesus has already done, accomplished what was needed for us to be close to God, so that we no longer hide, or live with guilt or fear. Now because of His blood you and I can walk with confidence, peace, and joy despite our circumstances.
Hebrews 13:12 tells us that “Jesus also suffered…in order to sanctify the people through His own blood.” Crossing the chasm through the blood of Jesus is to be in a new relationship with God. The blood of Christ offers forgiveness of sin, eternal life but also sanctification meaning to purify, make sacred, holy, to be set apart for God’s special use and purpose.
So now, how can you and I live with intention? The Word tells us, “Because He Himself [in His humanity] has suffered in being tempted, He is able to help and provide immediate assistance to those who are being tempted and exposed to suffering.” Hebrew 2:18 AMPebrew
The Bible is a precious instruction manual inspired by God written by God’s chosen, “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16 NASB Through it we are able to obtain a true relationship with God one which we all are desperately seeking. True peace comes at Jesus’ feet, when we invest our time learning to see yourselves and those around us through His eyes, making daily decisions based on what God says and not the world. A good friend said, “We cannot have the mind set of obeying God until we get what we want…We MUST obey (live God’s way) until God gets what He wants!”
Living with intention is to live seeking after God’s purpose for your life. We must acknowledge that He is the Creator, and we are His created. It is a lifestyle, we must but aside our selfish nature; think of others, as Jesus did. God has given us the ability to live as written in Galatians 5:22-23 NASB “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” This is not always easy, but don’t be discouraged because God has given us help…” Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the [Holy] Spirit who is from God, so that we may know and understand the [wonderful] things freely given to us by God.” I Corinthians 2:12 AMP
Today, Sweet Sisters in Jesus Christ I am asking you to fully embrace this amazing scripture, “And He is the perfect Father who leads us all, works through us all, and lives in us all!” Ephesians 4:6 TPT (The Passion Translation comes from the Aramaic language which Jesus spoke).
I must confess that over the last couple of weeks I have been asking God to give me His Words to share with you. This is the process I always use as I quiet my mind and ask my spirit along with the help of the Holy Spirit to speak. As I have shared my mind and ability to recall is slightly limited right now however I will not let this limitation hold me back. A decade ago, a young lady gave me a gift of a coffee mug and right now as I am sipping on my coffee the words on it speak to me. “His Word is in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I CANNOT! This simple girl is on FIRE! ” Jeremiah 20:9 personalized.
I say all of this to tell you that as I was preparing my computer to write, I opened my last writing and God brought me to tears as I read what was written because my sisters I did not remember what the Holy Spirit had given me that morning. It spoke to me with such truth…God’s Truth and so now the Holy Spirit is urging me to continue.
We must live with a Perpetual Attitude, an awareness of His presence. So how can we get there and how can we keep it fresh? How can we “go deeper”? Let’s look at the word perpetual; occurring repeatedly; so frequent as to seem endless and uninterrupted, never ending, everlasting, eternal, permanent. And now the word attitude; a settled way of thinking or feeling about something, typically one that is reflected in a person’s behavior. As the daughters of the Most High King this must be the position we pursue.
Practicing the presence of God is a learned habit you can develop. We, my sisters, are not flesh but spirit with the ability to live by the Holy Spirit, let me put it a simpler way…we must allow our spirit to become bigger than our flesh (mind) for it is in our mind that all sin begins.
I have adopted what I call “Jesus Habits” to assist me in building my Perpetual Attitude of worship focused on God and living daily in His presence.
Create reminders to bring your thoughts back to an awareness, a knowing that God is with you in that moment. For me I use 3 x 5 cards with scriptures written on them posted in various places within my view, I also carry my Bible with me EVERYWHERE. Just knowing it’s with me gives me comfort.
2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us to make every thought obedient to God. Let No negative thought occupy your mind, be quick to give it to God, if forgiveness is necessary then offer a prayer of repentance.
There are situations and people who can distract you and offend you, once again God tells us not to dwell upon these things. For me I remind myself I MUST let “it” go! Anything I’ve harbored in my heart toward people who have hurt me, misrepresented me, spoke unkindly about me. I have to “let go” of the desire for an apology — it isn’t coming! And that’s ok! Instead, I stop right there and offer simple words of praise, “God is with me and for me right now”. Remove yourself from any situation or individual that interferes with your relationship with God.
The Bible tells us to “pray all the time” 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Pastor Rick Warren offers this simple idea…choose a brief simple phrases that can be repeated to Jesus in one breath: “You are with me.” “I want to know You.” “Help me trust You.” Pray it as often as possible so it is rooted deep in your heart. Just be sure that your motive is to Honor God, not control Him. In my hardest days I simply say, “Yes God.”
It is impossible to be God’s child if you don’t know what He says. You can’t love God and hear Him speak if you don’t know Him. Samuel knew God intimately because He revealed Himself through His Word. “and he showed himself to Samuel through his word.” 1 Samuel 3:21b NCV There are also many great men and women of God who have written books to help you know God. God’s Word belongs to you…it is tangible! I strongly suggest that you use a printed Bible, write in it…mark it up…date those moment you encounter Him!
The key to living in God’s presence is by changing our attitude in our daily lives, no matter where you are right now you can honor God with your attitude and action. That is to say, what you normally do for yourself begin doing for God, whether it is preparing for your day…bathing, eating, your daily routine. Then at work how can you do this for your King? How can you serve your King in action? In thought? Many believe you have to “get away” you know have a set “quiet time” and yes that is important, but we serve a God of details and He is there every moment so why not acknowledge His presence and give Him the Glory. He loves to hear your voice as you share your life with Him.
Heavenly Father, help me and my beautiful sisters in Christ…live in Your presence with a perpetual attitude of worship, help us to see it is more than a time or place, a song sung, a sermon heard, a quiet time…God, you are in our details, you see every circumstance and You are there with us! Jesus I surrender my very breath to you…help me to know You God in an intimate way. I pray this in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Greetings to all of you, my sweet sisters in Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 38:16-17NIV personalized, “Lord, by these things people live, and in all these is the life of my spirit; You have restored me to health and let me live! Behold, for in my own belief before you rescued me I had great bitterness and hurt; But You kept me even then…because You love my soul from the pit of destruction and nothingness, and in Your great sacrifice You have hurled all my sins behind Your back.”
Today victory is mine…despite the doctors’ reports, despite what is ahead…Jesus saved me. 2 Corinthians 5:1-5MSG personalized tells me, “I know that when this body of mine is taken down like a tent and folded away, it will be replaced by MY new body in heaven—God-made, not handmade—and I will never have to relocate my “tent” again. Sometimes I can hardly wait to move—and so I cry out in frustration as my tent that is my flesh and bones age giving way to sickness. Compared to what’s coming, living conditions around here seem like a stopover in an unfurnished shack, and I am tired of it! I have been given a glimpse of the real thing, my true home, my heavenly spirit body! The Spirit of God whets my appetite by giving me a taste of what’s ahead. He has put a little of heaven in my heart so that I will never settle for less.”
I know that God will not relieve me from my earthly body not one minute before my great commission is finished. By now most of you have heard that I have been diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer. God has given me comfort in this because victory is already mine, I have received my miracle, my victory…salvation, which is the knowledge that I am forgiven and the daughter of the Most High King, loved and valued!
As you know this year God gave me the word “Grateful”, He knew what was coming and He wanted me to focus on all He has done in my life, how He saved me in my darkest times, how He lead me to taste His love and experience His Design for His children in such way that I would sing…NO SHOUT His Truth… “We all belong to Him and He wants to restore all that has been lost and redeem His children!”
A few weeks ago, I was thinking about what to write to you, my sweet sisters and God had me open His Word like many times before…He whispered “Just let it fall open and read…I have something for you there”. This was just days before I received the news my tent was stricken by this intruder… God said, “This is for you my daughter let this be your comfort.”
“God—you’re my God! I can’t get enough of you! I’ve worked up such hunger and thirst for God, traveling across dry and weary deserts. So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open, drinking in your strength and glory. In your generous love I am really living at last! My lips brim praises like fountains. I bless you every time I take a breath; My arms wave like banners of praise to you. I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy; I smack my lips. It’s time to shout praises! If I’m sleepless at midnight, I spend the hours in grateful reflection. Because you’ve always stood up for me, I’m free to run and play. I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post.” Psalm 63:1-8MSG
God was telling me look at Me, not what you are hearing with your ears or seeing with your eyes…sweet daughter I AM your portion, NO MATTER WHAT! COME WHAT MAY!
There are tough days coming…surgery, reconstruction, chemo, radiation, hormone therapy…all of these things cannot…WILL NOT…disrupt or confuse the truth that Jesus is my King, my Forever Father! Father God, I pray for you to continue your work in me, cast out any thought or iniquity still in me…open any stronghold and destroy any fear for I am your creation God and You are my Savior in whom I trust.
2 Corinthians 5:7-8 tells us “for we walk by faith, not by sight… but we are of good courage and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.”
In closing, there are some lyrics of a popular worship song that has ministered to me, here it is for you to take in…be blessed and comforted.
CHAMPION by Bethel Worship I’ve tried so hard to see it Took me so long to believe it That You’d choose someone like me To carry Your victory Perfection could never earn it You give what we don’t deserve and You take the broken things And raise them to glory
You are my champion Giants fall when you stand Undefeated Every battle You’ve won I am who You say I am You crown me with confidence I am seated, in the heavenly place Undefeated, with the One who has conquered it all
Now I can finally see it You’re teaching me how to receive it So let all the striving cease This is my victory
When I lift my voice and shout Every wall comes crashing down I have the authority Jesus has given me When I open up my mouth Miracles start breaking out I have the authority Jesus has given me
You are my champion Giants fall when you stand Undefeated Every battle You’ve won I am who You say I am You crown me with confidence I am seated, in the heavenly place Undefeated, by the power of Your name I am seating, in the heavenly place Undefeated, with the One you has conquered it all
Greetings to all of you, my sweet sisters in Jesus Christ. “When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun! All these new things are from God who brought us back to Himself through what Christ Jesus did. And God has given us the privilege of urging everyone to come into His favor and be reconciled to Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 TLB
What an amazing gift we have in Jesus. This gift is beautiful wrapped with paper and ribbons, the paper and ribbons can be thought of as salvation, a guaranteed home with Jesus and our Heavenly Father. The sacrifice Jesus made on the cross confirmed our reservation in eternity when we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior.
Today, I want to talk about the contents of the gift. Deuteronomy 11:21TLB gives us a glimpse of what God has for those who believe in Him… it says, “so that as long as there is sky above the earth, you and your children will enjoy the good life awaiting you in the land the Lord has promised you.”
You see this gift is to be used here and now, embraced, pursued, practiced, and welcomed. As you embrace God and walk with Him Psalm 115:14NASB tells us “May the Lord increase you, you and your children.” This increase comes in the form of love, joy, peace, hope, grace, strength, mercy, and so much more. He will meet your needs and restore what the Locust has eaten. Now many might speak these scriptures and others spouting material riches however I caution you that while God tells us He will supply all our needs this does not necessarily mean prosperity as the world measures it. I would much rather cultivate and harvest the Fruits of the Spirit along with an intimate relationship with Jesus than financial gain.
Galatians 5:22-23 MSG, “But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.”
As the contents of the gift unfolds we find Jesus has given us…
“ For as you know him better, He will give you, through His great power, everything you need for living a truly good life: He even shares His own glory and His own goodness with us!” 2 Peter 1:3TLB
“yet now God declares us “not guilty” of offending him if we trust in Jesus Christ, who in His kindness freely takes away our sins.” Romans 3:24TLB
Paul tells us in Philippians 4:11-13NASB “Not that I speak from need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
“For because of our faith, He has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to actually becoming all that God has had in mind for us to be.” Romans 5:2TLB
“who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was granted to us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.” 2 Timothy 1:9NASB
“He disciplines us for our own good so that we may share in His Holiness.” Hebrews 12:1NASB
“For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39NASB
In Closing, I urge you my sisters to step into all God has for you, there are many believers who once they take off the ribbon and paper leave their gift untouched for one reason or another. This gift can only be fully experienced through daily pursuing Jesus with all our body, mind and spirit. Allowing God to refine us…transforming us into the very image of Himself, our Father. Ephesians 2:10AMPC confirms this… “For we are God’s own handiwork, His workmanship, recreated in Christ Jesus, born anew, that we may do those good works which God predestined, planned beforehand for us taking paths which He prepared ahead of time, that we should walk in them living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live.”
Greetings to all of you, my sweet sisters in Jesus Christ. “It was for freedom that Christ set you and I free…completely liberated; therefore, keep standing firm and do not be hampered and ensnared or allow sin to put a leash on you which Jesus Christ has removed. There is no sin that can hold you captive unless you give in to it.” Galatians 5:1 personalized
This life we are living…the relationship we have with Jesus and others are as vital as the very air we breathe. There are specific elements to our relationship with our Savior which are also necessary in our earthly relationships. A couple weeks ago our youth pastor at Generations Church, Pastor Jesse Jamerson, spoke some words of Truth on this very subject. Here find my takeaway from Pastor Jesse and God’s Truth.
God’s Word pours out the elements of our relationship with our Creator, His Son, and His children. Let’s explore each of these elements so that you and I might find the Truth concerning a more intimate bond with God and others. This has always been God’s Plan from those first days when Adam and Eve walked with God in the Garden until Jesus returns…God’s primary concern has been our relationship with Him.
We know from God’s Word (Genesis 1:26-28) we were created in His image. Unfortunately, that image was twisted and distorted by sin. Jesus came to restore that image, His sacrifice paid the price for our sin once and for all…past, present, and future. Now this opportunity is for this moment, here in our earthly bodies, to experience God’s Love through a relationship with Jesus. To claim our Kingdom position as His Children, the daughters of the Most High King. This position can only be manifested in your life through a thriving relationship with Your Savior and Heavenly Father.
This relationship I am speaking of has elements or attributes, without them we CANNOT receive the love God intends for each of us. These very elements also must be found in our relationships with others. Let’s take a close look at what is required…
Be Yourself – There is no need to try and make a false impression on God, He already knows…also be real with those around you. The Apostle Paul puts it right out there…”And when I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come as someone superior in speaking ability or wisdom, as I proclaimed to you the testimony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. I also was with you in weakness and fear, and in great trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of mankind, but on the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 2:1-5 NASB We also find in 2 Timothy 2:15. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” False impressions to impress quickly fade. Remember, God made you so let others see the real you.
Further study; Psalm 139:14, 2 Corinthians 4:7-10, Romans 12:1-21, James 5:15
Spend Time – It is said what you spend time with what you value. Your relationship with God and others is dependent on the time you invest. How can we know someone, or they know us if we don’t spend time with them? God is passionate about a relationship with you. God wants us to spend time with Him! In fact, the more time we spend with God, the more He will be involved in our lives. James 4:8 MSG says “So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud “NO” to the Devil and watch him make himself scarce. Say a quiet YES to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.”
More than anything, spending time with God not only builds your relationship but your faith. “Come, let’s talk this over, says the Lord; no matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can take it out and make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you white as wool!” Isaiah 1:18 TLB Our personal relationships also require time and conversation…How are we to know one another if there is no investment of our time.
Further study: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Hebrews 10:25
Communication – 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” The Bible warns us that what we say and how we say it is important to God. Conversation like spending time is crucial in every relationship. God loves to hear our thoughts and ideas after all He created us to be unique and have a life purpose. Through our conversations with Him that purpose is revealed. With others God’s Word, speaks clearly about how through our communication we build or damage relationships. “Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.” Proverbs 18:13NLT Also, Colossians 4:6NLT says, “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” What we say and how we say it makes all the difference. “ If you speak to people in words they don’t understand, how will they know what you are saying? You might as well be talking into empty space.” 1 Corinthians 14:9NLT
Further study: Proverbs 13:17, James 1:19, Psalm 19:14, Proverbs 15:1
Humility – This word often is confusing for us even the dictionary doesn’t really define what it means to walk in humility, in fact it is completely a world’s view and not Gods. Simply stated to walk in humility is to fully understand “It’s NOT about you!” Humility is better defined by servanthood, that is the way in which we serve others and God. In fact, to serve God is to serve others without expectation of reward or recognition. A true believer gives with a cheerful heart, quietly without expecting something in return. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 NASB, Here it is so plainly put…meditate upon these words, “Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God’s action in them find that God’s Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing. And God isn’t pleased at being ignored.” Romans 8:5-8 When we are unable or unwilling to humble ourselves we are saying we don’t trust God.
Further Study: 1 Peter 5:6-7, James 4:6, Philippians 2:3-4, Matthew 18:4, Ephesians 4:1-3
Trust – Putting your trust in God is the way forward. Set aside your anxieties and doubts and turn it all over to the Lord. God says “Trust in me, your Father, the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to me, and I will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6personalized “You will keep the man in perfect peace whose mind is kept on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3 NLT How can you find peace without trusting God, in this world with so much uncertainty. In those you love as well, there must be trust, without trust every single other element in the relationship will fail.
Listen – Are you a good listener? Listening is one of the easiest things you’ll ever do, and one of the hardest.
In a sense, listening is easy, or I should say hearing is easy. It doesn’t demand the initiative and energy required in speaking. That’s why “faith comes from hearing and hearing through the word of Christ”. Romans 10:17NASB. We must make listening to God a priority. God is speaking to us continually; we must train our spirit to hear His Voice. But despite this ease — or perhaps precisely because of it — we often fight against it. In our sin, we’d rather trust in ourselves than another, amass our own righteousness than receive another’s, speak our thoughts than listen to someone else. True, sustained, active listening is a great act of faith, and a great means of grace, both for ourselves and for others. This happens when we invest time. It is through reading His word, fasting, and praying we increase our ability to listen to God. In our relationship with others the same applies, if you are so busy talking how can you know what your loved one is feeling or thinking. Humility is at work in listening as well as having good communication skills. So, learning to listen well won’t happen overnight. It requires discipline, effort, and intentionality. You will get better with time. Here are seven steps to becoming a better listener (1) Good listening requires patience. Remember it’s not about you. (2) Good listening is an act of love. (3) Good listening asks perspective questions. (4) Good listening readies us to minister words of grace to precisely the place where the other is in need. (5) Good listening can be a greater service than speaking. Lean in express concern with your body language. (6) Put more emphasis on affirmation than on answers. (7) Good listening should reflect our relationship with God.
Further Study: John 10:27, James 1:19, Matthew 7:27, Proverbs 12:15 and 18:13
Intentional – We must pursue God with intention. Let’s be honest, the fast pace of life can easily whisk us away and into the busy grind, leaving the day void of conversations with God. This is true for our relationships with others as well. “So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17NASB Our deepest friends should be committed Christ-followers that encourage us spiritually, and whom we are actively encouraging. We are to be a light in our relationships and conversations with non-believers. “and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25NASB We must actively pursue two types of relationships: ones that contribute to our spiritual walk and ones to whom we can contribute, both believers and non-believers. “Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” Colossians 3:13-14
Intimacy – “Put me on trial, Lord, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. For I am always aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth..” Psalm 26:2-3NLT When writing to the church at Philippi, Paul said this, “I gave up all that inferior stuff so I could know Christ personally, experience his resurrection power, be a partner in his suffering, and go all the way with him to death itself. If there was any way to get in on the resurrection from the dead, I wanted to do it.” Philippians 3:10 When we look at this word “know” in its fullness of translation we see there is or was nothing more intimate, more personal, this is experienced through the Holy Spirit residing within us. We can confidently say when we know God we are never alone. Jesus had such an intimate relationship with God that He knew He was never alone. No matter the circumstance, no matter who was around Him or how people felt about Him or treated Him, Jesus was at peace, confident, and able to overcome. This is what it is like to experience intimacy with God. God is the starting place for this kind of intimacy with others. If we cannot be intimate with our Savior, then we will surely struggle to be intimate with people. Yet if we can be intimate with God, He can and will show us how to be free to encounter the kind of intimacy in relationships that we all desire.
Further Study: John 15:4-6, Zephaniah 3:17, John 17:3, Colossians 3:1, Romans 5:8, Matthew 10:30
When you are pursuing a relationship with God built upon these elements, it affects every aspect of your life. You’ll love differently, treat people differently, you will see the world and others through Jesus’ eyes.
In closing here are a few more scriptures to meditate upon…
“Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.” 1 John 3:18NLT
“You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart.” 1 Peter 1:22NLT
“But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 NLT
Finally, this is my desire for you sweet sisters…“I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself.” Colossians 2:2 NLT
Blessings, Sister Laurie
If you would like to reach out to me, I welcome you to do so. I would love to share what God is speaking to me and pray for you, pour into you so that you may grow your relationship with our loving Savior Jesus Christ. It is in the sharing and studying of God’s Word that we find the freedom only God, our Forever Father can bring.
Greetings to all of you, my sisters in Jesus Christ. I’m reading a new book, well at least a new book for me entitled, “Blessed Beyond Measure”, by Gloria Copeland. In the first couple of pages, she got me thinking about God’s Word and how every circumstance, every word shows us just how much God loves us and wants absolutely the best for you and I. Gloria’s book speaks to God’s Goodness and how we miss out on receiving all He has for us by our own misunderstanding, wrong thinking and actions. God NEVER withholds, it is us who miss what He is offering. God’s Holy Word clearly tells us the outcome of our obedience to Him and the outcome of disobedience. In His Words God says “Place these words on your hearts. Get them deep inside you. Tie them on your hands and foreheads as a reminder. Teach them to your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning until you fall into bed at night. Inscribe them on the doorposts and gates of your cities so that you’ll live a long time, and your children with you, on the soil that God promised to give your ancestors for as long as there is a sky over the Earth.” Deuteronomy 11:18-21 MSG God is telling you right here what to do in order to make way for His goodness to be manifested in your life.
Just like God’s children of the Old Testament, it is our life choices, our decisions and actions that put us into captivity. Many believers and non-believers get confused about the sovereignty (supreme power or authority) of God, they find themselves blaming God for the misfortunes, disasters, heartbreaks, sickness…saying this must be a curse put on us by God. The truth is it is our own curse, through man’s sinful nature and the influences of the devil. Now I must make something perfectly clear…illness in most cases is not the result of sin however sinful behavior can weaken our body making it vulnerable to sickness. An example of this would be drug addiction which damages God’s perfectly created body and makes it susceptible to health conditions, often leading to death.
The famous scripture which hangs in many homes today says, “For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for prosperity and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NASB But most people stop right there believing all I have to do is believe and I will live in prosperity. We have a responsibility in receiving the “goodness” God is speaking of…read further, “Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will let Myself be found by you,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.” Jeremiah 29:12-14 NASB
Now let me get to the entrée of what I wanted to share with you, we are sitting at God’s Table, and He wants to serve a full course meal including dessert, I believe one of the best scriptures that describes God’s Goodness is found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. I know your thinking that’s the “love” chapter and is not God telling us how to behave? How to love? Well, yes but how much better we can understand if we look at it as a description of God and know with confidence that we being made in His image have the ability within our spirit with the help of the Holy Spirit to demonstrate the same goodness in our lives. We know that God is love and all true love flows from Him into us therefore let us look at these precious words exchanging the word “love” for God to gain a deeper understanding of the depth of God’s goodness. I have personalized these scriptures using several translations.
God is patient, enduring, understanding…God is kind,
God is not suspicious or bitter however He desires for us to keep our eyes on Him some might say He is jealous, but I say protective.
God has no need brag He is sovereign, God is not arrogant, boastful, proud or rude there is no need for there are no other Gods only those manmade with no power and influenced by Satan to distract us. If we look at nature and all of God’s creation we see there is no need for God to boast or demand His own way…He is a gentleman who never forces.
God never acts disgracefully, God does not seek his own benefit; God cannot be provoked, He is not irritable, God does not keep an account, no record of a wrong suffered, God exists in the light never in darkness, no good thing EVER comes from darkness. God is GOOD!
God does not rejoice in unrighteousness or wrongdoing; He never rejoices concerning injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. God’s heart breaks at man’s sinful nature, His Word was meant and remains our personal guide in life to experience God and all He has for us. God’s great sacrifice is the evidence of His love, that He Himself is Love…to suffer and die for each of us upon the cross.
God’s truth bears up under anything and everything that comes, God is always ever ready to believe the best all His children, God’s hopes are fadeless under every circumstance…
God will never fail you…He will never change, fade out or become obsolete…GOD IS THE SAME YESTERDAY, TODAY and TOMORROW!
In closing, I will leave you with this final truth. The goodness of God and the glory of God spoken in the Bible are practically synonymous meaning interchangeable, identical, equal or it might be said one in the same. In the Hebrew language the word “glory” means “to be heavy with everything good.” In today’s world and language, we might find words that seem superior to the word “good” such as best, better, or excellent, however, in Hebrew “good” is the superlative word meaning there is no higher word, nothing more grand or descriptive. In other words, the word “good” found in God’s Word speaks of the highest and greatest, everything that is positive and desirable. Ladies that is who God is…God is Good.
Greetings to all of you, my sisters in Jesus Christ. I am just going to jump right in. There is a battling raging in the world. Our position with God is solid, however God tells us in His Word…”For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 2:16KJV
Today, the kingdom of God is under full attack…the forces of evil are out there bringing confusion and destruction. While we know with confidence the battle is won for God’s eternal purpose people are still perishing daily. The lines of identity, social justice, moral value have been blurred. You might ask why is this happening? It is because believers all over the world have taken the back seat and allowed God’s Truth to be silenced.
We must arm ourselves and not be shy, the back seat is not working, God wants us driving! We must remember who has been given authority against the forces of darkness in this world right now! Who has been called to share God’s love in this world with power and influence? It is you and I my sister! So, what can we do? Let me make it clear…everyone is important and has value! No matter how far astray they have become from the beautiful person God created them to be.
First, in God’s Word and Truth as spoken in Luke 4:18AMP, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me (the Messiah), Because He has anointed Me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent Me to announce release (pardon, forgiveness) to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are oppressed (downtrodden, bruised, crushed by tragedy).”
Second, we have a responsibility in our relationships, not just family but those we encounter in our peripheral daily life, Colossians 2:2TLB says, “This is what I have asked of God for you: that you will be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love, and that you will have the rich experience of knowing Christ with real certainty and clear understanding. For God’s secret plan, now at last made known, is Christ himself.” Further, Colossians 3:13-14NTL “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.”
We must stand up in a loving way to Satan’s attempts at destroying or should I say taking as many as he can with him, that really what it amounts to…Jesus is coming and those who have not heard, have not taken Jesus Christ as their Savior will suffer the consciences. That is the harsh truth!
Here are some steps we can take to help those lost in the devil’s grip find freedom.
Arm yourself, know God…daily talk, pray and read His Word, seek out Godly instruct, worship, prophecy and sing of His power and goodness. The more time we invest in Him the closer we grow and the more power to free those captives is revealed. It is all about relationship with Him and then taking it to others.
Meet people where they are both physically and spiritually. Right in their mess…reach out in love, offer encouragement that there is something so much better coming. Identify with their situation, remember one size does not fit all, we must be relevant to the culture and situation.
Use world tools to reach people, don’t engage in political arguments instead promote God’s love. Consider who is in your peripheral, their culture, background, past, outward appearance. Remember everyone deserves to be loved. Forgiveness is key. We must live without offence, quick to forgive. Please know I am not talking about living in an abusive relationship or tolerating abuse, it is how we react that shows our forgiveness and love. Live with healthy, Godly boundaries.
Listen…less words more listening. Are you taking the time to really listen? Do not be in a hurry, there is nothing more important than representing Jesus Christ, we do this through listening. Be slow to speak and make sure your response is not coming from hidden hurt. We must look to God for the Godly counsel that is what is needed in today’s world. That doesn’t not mean pointing out sin. As a person comes to Christ, Jesus will lead them out of their sin. Romans 8:1TPT says…”So now the case is closed. There remains no accusing voice of condemnation against those who are joined in life-union with Jesus, the Anointed One.” We must not give a list of rules to the one searching for it can be a huge stumbling block. The first step for the one searching is to come to a place of encountering God and asking Jesus into their hearts, confessing He is Lord and asking for forgiveness. Scripture does not tell us to point out their sin.
Am I approachable? 1 Timothy 1:12-16TPT personalized says “My heart spills over with thanks to God for the way he continually empowers me, and to our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, who found me trustworthy and who authorized me to be his partner in this ministry. Mercy kissed me, even though I used to be a blasphemer, a persecutor of believers, and a scorner of what turned out to be true. I was ignorant and didn’t know what I was doing. I was flooded with such incredible grace, like a river overflowing its banks it is a superabounding grace, until I was full of faith and love for Jesus, the Anointed One! I can testify that the Word is true and deserves to be received by all, for Jesus Christ came into the world to bring sinners back to life—even me, the worst sinner of all! Yet I was captured by grace, so that Jesus Christ could display through me the outpouring of his Spirit, a demonstration of his perfect patience as a pattern to be seen for all those who would believe, in fact they are destined to believe in him for eternal life.” We must consider, Colossians 4:4-6TPT personalized which instructs us through Paul “And please pray for me, that God will open a door of opportunity for us to preach the revelation of the mystery of Christ, for whose sake I am imprisoned. Pray that I would unfold and reveal fully this mystery, for that is my delightful assignment. Walk in the wisdom of God as you live before the unbelievers and make it your duty to make him known giving this purpose your all. Let every word you speak be drenched with grace, compassion and tempered with truth and clarity. For then you will be prepared to give a respectful answer to anyone who asks about your faith.”
Who can you bless today? With a Word, a gesture or action? Who is in your peripheral?
It has been several days since I have been in my refuge, the room I have in my house where I seek God’s presence, pray and study. Our home has had family here and the littles brought germs with them, my husband was the first to catch the bug which appeared as a cold, and then I felt the symptoms invading me as well. I never really got congested but my head felt full. I found myself just sitting and staring at the TV, unable to get myself inspired to do anything. My husband will tell you that I am a busy person who always sets out with a plan daily of things to accomplish and yet for the last couple of weeks I just could not get moving. I will also say that retirement can be challenging, you have more days to do “stuff” less “money” to do them and so you find yourself saying “that can wait.” A frustrating place to be…my foggy head, lack of motivation and no real deadline to make me move. And yet there is something is there not? There is God. The True force behind the “why” of everything. I cannot imagine what it would be like to not believe, to not know that I am His child, to live without purpose in the fourth quarter of life. This is where faithfulness comes in. And so, in my stupor I will say “Yes God!” I will call upon my Father to help me rise up and get moving…I will remain faithful!
The dictionary defines faithfulness as the concept of unfailingly remaining loyal to someone or something and putting that loyalty into consistent practice regardless of extenuating circumstances. Faithfulness is adhesion, allegiance, attachment, commitment, constancy, dedication, devotedness, devotion. Faithfulness comes from a place of trust and loyalty. The Bible says in Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is a confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faithfulness requires us to submit our ways to God, it means that even when are physical body is failing us we keep saying “Yes God.” Even when something we hoped for, someone we thought would extend an invitation, an opportunity dissipates into thin air we continue to say, “Yes God”.
I receive a newsletter from the Assemblies of God quarterly and in the fall issue an article about faithfulness caught my eye, it’s simple truth lead me to share these thoughts with you and so I extend a thank to Donna Barrett, author. It spoke to me right in the midst of my funk (for lack of a better word), encouraged me to stay the course, do my best and give God all the praise.
King Saul had it all, selected by God when the Israelites asked for a leader. Set up as King, he had wealth, wisdom, and looks but most of all… he had God on his side. So, what happened? Simple put he let the distractions of this world blur his vision, congest his mind. In a nutshell, he become unfaithful to God. Scripture says, “So Saul died for his unfaithfulness which he committed against the Lord, because of the word of the Lord which he did not keep; and also because he asked counsel of a medium, making inquiry of her, and did not inquire of the Lord. Therefore, He killed him and turned the kingdom over to David, the son of Jesse.” 1 Chronicles 10:13-14NASB
Every person in the Bible, every situation is placed there with purpose by God, to warn us, to teach us how to navigate life on planet earth. With that being said, Saul is given to us as an example of what can happen when we take our eyes off God and put our faith in things of this world. King Saul made three mistakes. Let us look at each of these and see if you and I are vulnerable as well.
DO NOT Look to the World for Guidance
Saul stopped seeking God for guidance, consulting a medium instead. In today’s world you and I do this when we let popular opinion guide us. On social media we look to see how many “likes” we get to affirm a thought or decision. Any information source you seek before or more than God is just a modern-day medium. God’s Word is the ultimate guide, the internet provides a multitude of information that can be spun, miss quoted, and edited to sway our decision in the wrong direction. I know I find myself saying “let me google that to see what is said concerning that”, now please let me say that we my husband and I have consulted the web on home repair, which item might fit our needs best and it can be a wonderful resource. Even in studying God’s Word, the internet has thousands of amazing articles and other sources for us to build our faith. You and I need to put God’s Gospel first, more than whatever version of truth is presented to us at the moment. I find Philippians 4 as a source of comfort and guidance. His Truth is still the Truth, even if no one believes it. A lie is still a lie, even if everyone believes it.
DO NOT Compare
Saul’s second mistake was comparing himself to others especially to David.
1 Samuel 18:7-9 tells us, “The women sang as they played, and said, “Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.” Then Saul became very angry, for this lyric [b]displeased him; and he said, “They have given David credit for ten thousands, but to me they have given credit for only thousands! Now what more can he have but the kingdom?” 9 And Saul eyed David with suspicion from that day on.”
This song of celebrated victory caused Saul to become jealous of David. It rendered he unable to escape the comparison trap. He saw David as a rival instead of acknowledging him as someone Saul had mentor and sharing in the victory. Embracing the truth that together they were a winning team. How would this scenario have changed if Saul had recognized his jealousy and brought it before the Lord in repentance?
I used to find myself begrudging other sisters in Christ who knew more scripture, who’s prayers were more elegant than mine, who I thought reached a higher level in their faith than me, friends who’s relationship appeared closer. But as I have grown as a believer, God has shown me that I have value in Him, my own unique value that He has grown in me. Even my marriage, in my friendships they are unique and God has taught me not to compare with others. Comparing ourselves to others in any respect leads to jealousy, losing sight of who you are, or your value in God’s Kingdom. Once again social media is a trap in this area, it has become today’s tool for unfair comparison. Unfair comparison and jealousy feed off one another and result in a never-ending vicious cycle. The way out is to be faithful to God with who you are and what He has given you. DO NOT let the enemy lure you into the comparison trap.
Be Honest with Yourself
The worst kind of deception is self-deception. Saul began lying to himself, believing those lies and then lying to those around him. The lying thought in your mind is a prelude to sin in action. In 1 Samuel 13:7-14, we find Saul disregarding God’s instruction to wait for Samuel…we see Samuel confront Saul as to why he did not wait for him as instructed. Here comes the excuses. When Saul disobeyed God and kept some of the plunder, he justified his actions as recorded in 1 Samuel 15:7-15. This pattern of excuse-making starts with self-deception. An excuse is nothing more than a lie wrapped up in rationalization. Who we are and what we do are connected, it might be said that our action verifies our character.
A person’s character is defined in Webster’s Dictionary as, “Your character is your personality, especially how reliable and honest you are. If someone is of good character, they are reliable and honest. If they are of bad character, they are unreliable and dishonest.” Even the world identifies that we are subject within our character to good and evil. The sinful nature you and I were born with is found within our character. However, there is good news in that God has given you and I a spirit within us, along with the Holy Spirit to overcome the sinful nature “bad character” within us. As we look to God remain faithful to His Word our character is refined into the image of Jesus Christ as spoke of in scripture. This is lifelong process well worth all our effort. The apostle Paul reminds us that there is a constant conflict, a battle within us that must be surrendered to God. He tells us in Romans 7 that this struggle is real and that it continues even though Paul himself teaches and speaks God’s Truth at every opportunity. For me this is an inspiration to not give in or give up.
In closing, Saul allow his character to be compromised by putting is faith in the world’s view instead of God’s. Once he took his eyes off God, sadly Saul began making decisions based in the world and self-deception, he became lost to God’s Truth and suffered eternal consequences.
“But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures for some time now, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. Cling to this truth, All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when He comes to set up His Kingdom: Preach the Word of God through what you speak and in action. It must be your lifestyle to represent His Truth daily no matter the circumstance you find yourself in. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. In fact, it is now upon us. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.” 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5NLT personalized
Greetings to all of you, my sisters in Jesus Christ. Several weeks ago I began praying for a scripture and word from God for this coming year. Some might call this a vision for the coming year and in the past I have written out the vision as God gave it to me. This year it was different, God gave me one scripture and then one word to study on, meditate on and let them motivate me to remain faithful and patience in 2022. To keep moving forward allowing God to be my direction and center.
“For we reach the goal of fulfilling all the commandments when we love others deeply with a pure heart, a clean conscience, and sincere faith.” 1 Timothy 1:5 TPT
This scripture touched me deeply, love and learning to love as God loves us is so key in our life. Many of the struggles you and I have come from our inability to love and forgive as God has directed us.
As you might have guessed the word God gave me is “Grateful”. I believe we just don’t spend enough time expressing our gratitude to God and those around us. The word “grateful” is defined as “feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness; thankful; conscious of benefit received, affording pleasure or contentment : PLEASING, pleasing by reason of comfort supplied or discomfort alleviated.” God’s Word and science tells us that living in an attitude of gratefulness is beneficial to both our spiritual and physical being.
Your ability to be grateful is directly related to the level of joy in your life and how you handle anxiety. It is impossible for both joy and anxiety to be present at the same time within you. The root of anxiety is found in your desire to control…the people you love, your co-workers, your physical environment, career. It is said that control is an illusion, never really attained because you don’t know what is going to happen next. Moreover, your mind is prone to discontentment, wanting what is out of your reach. Over thinking, dwelling upon that next material thing, success, popularity, status that somehow will give you the control you desire. This develops into anxiety which lends itself to chaos, the feeling of being out of control, and so a vicious cycle ensues. Being thankful requires you to relinquish your control.
The Apostle Paul understood this cycle all too well and God gave him the answer to finding the lasting joy we all desire. Philippians 4:6-8TPT says “Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell Him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will guard your heart and mind through Jesus Christ. Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable, and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising Him always.”
I have spent the day researching the how to of living in a grateful state, it is there where the joy and peace of God exists. Not surprisingly, there are many articles both Christian and secular that speak about living in a grateful state. There are two common thoughts; first, it is a decision and secondly, it is important to have people around you how are pursuing this joy as well. We must rid ourselves of the naysayers, and cynics. It is far more enjoyable to spend time with someone who is grateful and positive than it is to be with someone who is negative and self-consumed. Gratefulness frees you from your negativity so that you can be more open in your relationship with God and people. Let me put it very plainly…God is calling us to gather and pray with one another to build one another up not tear down, not dwell, our prayer life must be full of thanksgiving and gratefulness directed at what God has done, is doing and will do. I’m not saying that we should not bring our concerns to God BUT our sincere gratefulness must outweigh the concerns. Gratefulness must be cultivated by being involved in small groups, attending church, serving, praying with others.
I have put together a list of thoughts and scripture for you to embrace in your journey to live gratefully.
Be grateful in every situation, leaning on God…this gratitude positions us in God’s will. God’s will is found in obedience. There are three areas your life you must focus on: (1) living in God’s unrestricted joy, (2) praying continually, and (3) giving thanks to God no matter what happens in your life. These three virtues combine to form the wonderful expression of Christ’s life within us. “Let joy be your continual feast, joyous in every season. Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18TPT
God’s love is the only thing that will last forever. Do you remember before you surrendered to God, you held on to all the hurt, you were unlovable; self-centered, and focusing on pleasing yourself. Now let this sink in…God looked down and loved you, the sacrifice of His Son was for you, Jesus Christ died for you. Right now, give thanks to God because you are loved passionately and without condition. “O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!.” 1 Chronicles 16:34AMPC
Be grateful for the abilities God has given you. As His daughter, you have the ability to show your gratefulness to God in action. The way in which you treat those around you, despite their behavior, is the outpouring of your love for God. It is God who gives us the strength to give, serve and work. When you have this attitude, even the most difficult task can be accomplished through your love for God. Simply put when you love God you love people. “Let the word of Christ live and grow in you richly, flooding you with all wisdom. Apply the Scriptures as you teach and instruct one another with the Psalms, and with festive praises, and with prophetic songs given to you spontaneously by the Spirit, so sing to God with all your hearts! Let every activity, commitment of your lives and every word, promise, oath that comes from your lips be drenched with the beauty of our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One. And bring your constant praise to God the Father because of what Christ has done for you!” Colossians 3:16-17 TPT
Be grateful for God’s deliverance. Without God you would be hopelessly lost. Only through the power of Jesus Christ, you are given the strength to rise above your sinful nature and overcome the desires of the flesh. You may have been saved while still snared by the lies of Satan, held captive. BUT through the Holy Spirit, you now have been set free. YES God! “My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance. And then as your endurance grows even stronger, it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking.” James 1:2-4TPT
Be grateful for God’s miraculous hand over your life. Always be thankful, giving God the glory and make sure that others know that this freedom you now have comes from God alone. There is no such thing as coincidence or luck, only by the hand of God and His intention for your life may you perceive how God is working things out for good in your life. So, with boldness declare God’s goodness daily. “I will worship you, Yahweh, with extended hands as my whole heart erupts with praise! I will tell everyone everywhere about your wonderful works!” Psalm 9:1TPT
Let your praise of gratefulness be in every prayer. Even before you see the answer…give God your praise. Thank Him just for listening, your attitude of gratefulness ushers a spirit of expectancy in our prayers. “Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell Him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will guard your heart and mind through Jesus Christ.” Philippians 4:6-7TPT
The good things in your life are ALL because of God. Make sure you thank God continually in all things big and small. This is your mission to speak with love, spread the Truth of God. “Everyone come meet His face with a thankful heart. Don’t hold back your praises; make Him great by your shouts of joy! For the Lord is the greatest of all, King-God over all other gods!” Psalm 95:2-3 “Then my song will be a burst of praise to You. My glory-shouts will make Your fame even more glorious to all who hear my praises!” Psalm 69:30TPT “God always makes His grace visible in Christ, who includes us as partners of His endless triumph. Through our yielded lives He spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of God everywhere we go.” 2 Corinthians 2:14TPT
Gratitude helps you see God. Gratitude glorifies God not for the gifts you have received but the Truth of who He is, Today, give all your praise to the Giver! Gratitude helps you realize all you have comes not because of you, but from God. Gratitude helps you enter into His presence, feel His personal care and experience His prefect timing. Dear sister, be careful to not be fooled or turn to sin to get what you want. “So, my friends, don’t be fooled by your own desires! Every gift or legacy God freely gives us is complete, wholesome, abundant, sufficient, enough, and perfect, streaming down from the Father of lights, who shines from the heavens with no hidden shadow or darkness and is never subject to change.” James 1:16-17TPT
Find contentment in Gratitude, let it deepen your faith. If you are not satisfied with what God has given you, more will not satisfy you either. Being thankful is the key to contentment. Keep a record of God’s past faithfulness and look back and reflect when a new challenge comes. Remember where you came from and who you are now as God’s child. Re-evangelize yourself by sharing what God has done and how you are now free. This will deepen your faith and lead you to the joy you are seeking. “We have a “profit” that is greater than theirs—our holy awe of God! To have merely our necessities is to have enough. Isn’t it true that our hands were empty when we came into the world, and when we leave this world our hands will be empty again? Because of this, food and clothing is enough to make us content.” 1 Timothy 6:6-8TPT “Let everyone thank God, for He is good, and He is easy to please! His tender love for us continues on forever!” Psalm 136:1TPT “It was like a dream come true when You freed us from our bondage and brought us back to Zion! We laughed and laughed and overflowed with gladness. We were left shouting for joy and singing Your praise. All the nations saw it and joined in, saying, “The Lord has done great miracles for them!” Yes, He did mighty miracles, and we are overjoyed!” Psalm 126:1-3TPT
Gratitude confronts Satan’s lies. This is my warning to you against evil. There are many scriptures that will testify of Satan’s plan to kill, steal and destroy you. He is jealous, he hates us and is a great deceiver. However, true gratitude for God and the abundance God gives protects us from falling victim to the enemy’s lies. Gratitude helps us live in the present and guards against envy. It is impossible to be thankful and jealous at the same time. Do not romance your past, your memory is distorted by evil. “For the Lord God is brighter than the brilliance of a sunrise! Wrapping Himself around me like a shield, He is so generous with his gifts of grace and glory. Those who walk along His paths with integrity will never lack one thing they need, for He provides it all!.” Psalm 84:11TPT “Do not say, “Why were the old days better than these?” For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this.” Ecclesiastes 7:10AMP “I thank you, Lord, and with all the passion of my heart, I worship You in the presence of angels! Heaven’s mighty ones will hear my voice as I sing my loving praise to You.” Psalm 138:1TPT
This writing has been long, I pray it ministers to you and sets you on a course to join me this year in being grateful for all God has done and continues to do in your life and mine as well. I leave you with this last Word of Truth…Gratitude is your testimony! Gratefulness, thanksgiving creates a fire in your spirit that burns bright and hot giving you and I the confidence to tell others.
“Go ahead and give God thanks for all the glorious things He has done! Go ahead and worship Him! Tell everyone about His wonders!” Psalm 105:1TPT
Sister Laurie JesusTruth 1/4/2022
If you would like to personally write to me, I welcome you to do so. I would love to share what God is speaking to me and pray for you, pour into you so that you may grow your relationship with our loving Savior Jesus Christ. It is in the sharing and studying of God’s Word that we find the freedom only God, our Forever Father can bring.
Blessings, Sister Laurie
I want to acknowledge those that helped in my search for a deepen understanding of what it means to give God our Gratitude. Real Joy by Pastor Akshay Rajkumar the lead Pastor of Redeemer Church in New Delphi, India. It is available on RightNow Media.com 15 Thankful Bible Verses to Remind You the Power of Prayer, by Sophia Caraballo, 11/24/2019 Top 7 Bible Verses About being Grateful, by Crystal McDowell
Instructions For Life According to Jesus Christ 