Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. " Luke 9:23
When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him. Luke 23:33
When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching. Luke 33:48-49
Then Joseph took Jesus’ body down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.
The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment. Luke 33:53-56
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!" Luke 24:1-6
Jesus, Risen Savior, Glorious Lord~
The invitation to follow You is not one for fun in the Son. Not every day will be a bright, cheerful ticker tape parade. In fact, if we accept the invitation, we should anticipate a dark, difficult march through the valley of death. Our acquaintances may abandon us in our affliction, but those who truly love us will linger and watch until the tragedy is terminated. Lord, You know that Good Fridays are excruciatingly painful! Please give us strength to tolerate them.
After Friday comes endless Saturday mourning. Something’s gone or someone’s missing. The very thing or person that once filled the hollow of our heart has vanished. We’re left alone and empty, wondering when the wait will end. Sadness and sorrow seize our soul. Please dear Lord, give us faith to face Saturday, and grace to remain at the grave through our grief.
If we stick around through our dreadfully dark Fridays and seemingly eternal Saturdays, we’ll see brilliant sensational Sundays! We will rejoice when You turn our trial into triumph! It will be a blessing when You wipe the warm tears from our blurry eyes. As our vision clears we will see something bright drawing near, something different than we’ve ever seen before. We will see You our Risen Savior and Glorious Lord! Hallelujah! Amen.
Between yesterday’s tragedy and tomorrow’s triumph will you leave God or linger at the grave until He’s glorified?
Your Good Friday could be disease or death, affliction or addiction, divorce or separation, heartache or hardship, disaster or destruction. Whatever your misfortune, look forward with hope to Easter Sunday when your mourning will turn to joy.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Reflections from Psalm 116
Psalm 116: 15
The LORD's loved ones are precious to him; it grieves him when they die. NLT
Gracious God, Our Loving Father and King,
O how I love You! When I cried out to You for mercy, You attentively bent down and listened to my soft voice. Please hear the cries of Deb, Kyle and Katelyn. They have bravely starred death in the face. In their deep sorrow, lavish them with grace, righteousness, and compassion. Wipe away the hot tears that gently trickle down their tender faces. They are weary, wounded, and weak from their long journey through the valley of death. Capture them in Your loving arms, comfort them, and provide them with much needed rest. Shower them with blessings.
Dwayne is precious in Your sight. In his life and death You were glorified. He was truly a faithful servant. He fought the good fight and finished the race a winner. Because he kept the faith, You have lovingly welcomed him home. He is with You in Paradise. You’ve awarded him the grand prize, his crown of righteousness! We praise You Lord, for the gift of eternal life.
May Deb and the children grow spiritually because they have tasted the bitter brew of affliction. Now, please offer them a sip from the cup of sweet salvation. Let them gratefully savor Your goodness and faithfulness that follows bitterness. Fill their cups to the brim with Your luscious love so they can pour it out onto others. Please seal their hearts with peace and praise because of Your precious Son who offers us consolation and sweet salvation. God, I lift them to the throne of grace and ask You to touch them and comfort them, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
If you cry out to God in your despair, He will hear you and answer from heaven. Praise God for the gift of eternal life.
For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day. 2 Timothy 4: 6-8
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11: 25-26
The LORD's loved ones are precious to him; it grieves him when they die. NLT
Gracious God, Our Loving Father and King,
O how I love You! When I cried out to You for mercy, You attentively bent down and listened to my soft voice. Please hear the cries of Deb, Kyle and Katelyn. They have bravely starred death in the face. In their deep sorrow, lavish them with grace, righteousness, and compassion. Wipe away the hot tears that gently trickle down their tender faces. They are weary, wounded, and weak from their long journey through the valley of death. Capture them in Your loving arms, comfort them, and provide them with much needed rest. Shower them with blessings.
Dwayne is precious in Your sight. In his life and death You were glorified. He was truly a faithful servant. He fought the good fight and finished the race a winner. Because he kept the faith, You have lovingly welcomed him home. He is with You in Paradise. You’ve awarded him the grand prize, his crown of righteousness! We praise You Lord, for the gift of eternal life.
May Deb and the children grow spiritually because they have tasted the bitter brew of affliction. Now, please offer them a sip from the cup of sweet salvation. Let them gratefully savor Your goodness and faithfulness that follows bitterness. Fill their cups to the brim with Your luscious love so they can pour it out onto others. Please seal their hearts with peace and praise because of Your precious Son who offers us consolation and sweet salvation. God, I lift them to the throne of grace and ask You to touch them and comfort them, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
If you cry out to God in your despair, He will hear you and answer from heaven. Praise God for the gift of eternal life.
For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day. 2 Timothy 4: 6-8
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11: 25-26
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Romans 11: 33-36
33Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
34"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
35"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
36For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Wise and Knowledgeable King,
Please expand my view of You. From afar You are an intriguing blip on the horizon. Reduced by distance, You are too manageable to be marvelous and too small to be significant. However, as I come closer, I am absolutely astonished by the vast view of who You are and what You have done for me.
What is your view of God? Do you see Him from a distance or up close? Walk nearer to Him and He will expand Your view.
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
34"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
35"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
36For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Wise and Knowledgeable King,
Please expand my view of You. From afar You are an intriguing blip on the horizon. Reduced by distance, You are too manageable to be marvelous and too small to be significant. However, as I come closer, I am absolutely astonished by the vast view of who You are and what You have done for me.
- I marvel at Your extravagance and generosity
- I’m awestruck by Your wisdom and knowledge
- I’m mesmerized by Your hidden treasures
- I wonder at Your pathways that are too complex to chart
- I’m amazed at Your never-ending mind
- I’m consumed with Your constant rightness
- I’m stunned at Your unlimited resources
What is your view of God? Do you see Him from a distance or up close? Walk nearer to Him and He will expand Your view.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Exodus 33: 11, 17
11 The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. 17 And the LORD said to Moses, "I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name."
John 15: 15-16
Jesus said, "15I have called you friends …16You did not choose me, but I chose you."
Holy and Awesome God!
I am astonished that you have chosen a sinner like me to be Your friend. You are holy, perfect, and pure. I’m imperfect and impure. My life is in shambles! I’m incredibly needy! Of all the beautiful and gifted people in the world who seem to have so much to offer, You have chosen me to be Your friend. I have no beauty, no gift, and no clout to offer. Yet You, Most High King, know me! You know my name and are pleased with me. How can this be?
It is a mystery I will never understand, but I believe You have called me "friend." You’ve shown me by example that it’s not the rich and famous you befriend, but ordinary people with humble hearts like mine. I will give my whole heart to You and be Your friend too. I long to hear You speak to me face to face as friends do.
I’ll start by checking in with You every day. In prayer, I’ll pour out my heart to You knowing that You’ll listen attentively. I’ll tell you when I’m happy or sad. I’ll seek Your advice before making difficult decisions. Your Word, the Holy Scriptures, will speak back to me wisdom and encouragement. You will counsel me and teach me when I come to You as a friend. It will please You when I listen to Your advice. For my respect, You will give me rich blessings and favors.
I will cherish our relationship and look forward to our time together! I could search the whole world and find no friend as dependable or trustworthy as You! You are a holy and awesome Friend! Thank You for choosing me! I am blessed beyond measure! Amen.
Have you checked in with your Best Friend today? If not, now is the time to give Him a call.
John 15: 15-16
Jesus said, "15I have called you friends …16You did not choose me, but I chose you."
Holy and Awesome God!
I am astonished that you have chosen a sinner like me to be Your friend. You are holy, perfect, and pure. I’m imperfect and impure. My life is in shambles! I’m incredibly needy! Of all the beautiful and gifted people in the world who seem to have so much to offer, You have chosen me to be Your friend. I have no beauty, no gift, and no clout to offer. Yet You, Most High King, know me! You know my name and are pleased with me. How can this be?
It is a mystery I will never understand, but I believe You have called me "friend." You’ve shown me by example that it’s not the rich and famous you befriend, but ordinary people with humble hearts like mine. I will give my whole heart to You and be Your friend too. I long to hear You speak to me face to face as friends do.
I’ll start by checking in with You every day. In prayer, I’ll pour out my heart to You knowing that You’ll listen attentively. I’ll tell you when I’m happy or sad. I’ll seek Your advice before making difficult decisions. Your Word, the Holy Scriptures, will speak back to me wisdom and encouragement. You will counsel me and teach me when I come to You as a friend. It will please You when I listen to Your advice. For my respect, You will give me rich blessings and favors.
I will cherish our relationship and look forward to our time together! I could search the whole world and find no friend as dependable or trustworthy as You! You are a holy and awesome Friend! Thank You for choosing me! I am blessed beyond measure! Amen.
Have you checked in with your Best Friend today? If not, now is the time to give Him a call.
Monday, September 26, 2005
John 15:12-16
Jesus said, "12My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. 14You are my friends if you do what I command. 15I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last."
Jesus,
I am delighted that You have asked me to be Your friend. What a privilege! Yes, of course I will be! You laid down Your life for Your friends – those who have a personal relationship with You and know You intimately. I’m glad that You didn’t lay down Your life for Your followers, brothers, or disciples. You intentionally laid it down for me. I can’t comprehend the depth of Your sacrifice, but know that in return You desire a deep friendship with me. It’s the least I can give You!
A servant doesn’t know his master intimately. He doesn’t know his master’s business. His only focus is on getting the job done for the approval of the boss. A friend is given preferential treatment and doesn’t need to seek approval because he already has it. A friend has the inside scoop. Thank You for choosing me to be Your friend. It is an honor!
May Your great sacrifice compel me to passionately pursue this friendship. May it be my priority and preoccupation to love You and love others as You have commanded because of our relationship. Please show me who I can be a friend to today for Your namesake. Amen.
Do you know Jesus as your friend? Are you passionately pursuing a relationship with Him? If not, tell Him you long to know Him more. Then make it a priority and your lifelong passion to pursue Him.
Jesus,
I am delighted that You have asked me to be Your friend. What a privilege! Yes, of course I will be! You laid down Your life for Your friends – those who have a personal relationship with You and know You intimately. I’m glad that You didn’t lay down Your life for Your followers, brothers, or disciples. You intentionally laid it down for me. I can’t comprehend the depth of Your sacrifice, but know that in return You desire a deep friendship with me. It’s the least I can give You!
A servant doesn’t know his master intimately. He doesn’t know his master’s business. His only focus is on getting the job done for the approval of the boss. A friend is given preferential treatment and doesn’t need to seek approval because he already has it. A friend has the inside scoop. Thank You for choosing me to be Your friend. It is an honor!
May Your great sacrifice compel me to passionately pursue this friendship. May it be my priority and preoccupation to love You and love others as You have commanded because of our relationship. Please show me who I can be a friend to today for Your namesake. Amen.
Do you know Jesus as your friend? Are you passionately pursuing a relationship with Him? If not, tell Him you long to know Him more. Then make it a priority and your lifelong passion to pursue Him.
Friday, September 23, 2005
Psalm 139: 1-6
1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Omniscient, Omnipresent, Almighty God,
You know me and are with me all the time, no matter where I go. You promise to never leave or abandon me. You are my constant companion. You don’t live with me, You live in me. That’s intimacy!
You know when I wake up in the morning miserable. You know when I go to bed at night mad. You know when I leave for work with attitude and return home with gratitude. You are familiar with all my ways.
I can play hide and seek with my friends, but not with You. There’s no place I can hide from You. My friends will believe my made up stories with make believe characters, but not You. You are the Author of my story and the illustrator of the characters. You know the whole story because it’s Yours.
I can pack my bags and run away from home to escape hurt, humiliation and hatred, but I can’t run away from You. You know where I am every second. I can’t get getaway from Your strong grip of grace. You promise to bless and protect me.
You know me intimately and are always with me. These thoughts are too overwhelming for me to understand. Please just give me faith to know You more and believe! In response I will worship You, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Almighty God. Amen.
Are you trying to play hide & seek with God? Do you make up stories and pretend to be someone you’re not? Do you want to run away? Ask God to look into your heart and know what you’re thinking. Ask Him to point you to the Truth and give you courage to follow His directions.
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Omniscient, Omnipresent, Almighty God,
You know me and are with me all the time, no matter where I go. You promise to never leave or abandon me. You are my constant companion. You don’t live with me, You live in me. That’s intimacy!
You know when I wake up in the morning miserable. You know when I go to bed at night mad. You know when I leave for work with attitude and return home with gratitude. You are familiar with all my ways.
I can play hide and seek with my friends, but not with You. There’s no place I can hide from You. My friends will believe my made up stories with make believe characters, but not You. You are the Author of my story and the illustrator of the characters. You know the whole story because it’s Yours.
I can pack my bags and run away from home to escape hurt, humiliation and hatred, but I can’t run away from You. You know where I am every second. I can’t get getaway from Your strong grip of grace. You promise to bless and protect me.
You know me intimately and are always with me. These thoughts are too overwhelming for me to understand. Please just give me faith to know You more and believe! In response I will worship You, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Almighty God. Amen.
Are you trying to play hide & seek with God? Do you make up stories and pretend to be someone you’re not? Do you want to run away? Ask God to look into your heart and know what you’re thinking. Ask Him to point you to the Truth and give you courage to follow His directions.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
John 21: 1-7, 12
1Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way: 2Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3"I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
4Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered.
6He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"
12None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.
Jesus, You are the Lord, the great I AM, who is always with me. On bright days, Your presence warms my heart. On deep, dark days filled with discouragement and disappointment You are just as present. On days of despair when all hope is gone and the net of my heart is empty, my vision is distorted by tear soaked eyes. I can’t recognize You standing right in front of me. I can’t hear Your voice. Are You there?
Please open my eyes to see while others just stand still staring. Open my mind to perceive while others parade around pondering. Many will watch, but I want to see, hear, and believe. Give me crystal clear vision to recognize You! I long to know You more dearly so that I can see You more clearly. When You affectionately call me I want to know Your voice. I need to hear You say, "Friend, haven’t you any hope?" Then I need faith to follow Your simple command to toss the empty net of my heart into the sea of blessings. You will fill it beyond my wildest imagination and exceed my immediate need! I’ll jubilantly shout, "It is the Lord!" and others will notice You because of my faith.
Please dear Lord, take my desperate dilemma and turn it into bountiful blessings for Your glorious name. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear, and faith to believe. Amen.
What is your hopeless situation? Do you see the Lord standing in front of you? He’s there if you look beyond the tears. He’s calling, "Friend, haven’t you any hope?" Tell him today that you want to know Him more dearly so that you can clearly see Him, hear Him, and believe Him when your heart is empty.
4Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered.
6He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"
12None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.
Jesus, You are the Lord, the great I AM, who is always with me. On bright days, Your presence warms my heart. On deep, dark days filled with discouragement and disappointment You are just as present. On days of despair when all hope is gone and the net of my heart is empty, my vision is distorted by tear soaked eyes. I can’t recognize You standing right in front of me. I can’t hear Your voice. Are You there?
Please open my eyes to see while others just stand still staring. Open my mind to perceive while others parade around pondering. Many will watch, but I want to see, hear, and believe. Give me crystal clear vision to recognize You! I long to know You more dearly so that I can see You more clearly. When You affectionately call me I want to know Your voice. I need to hear You say, "Friend, haven’t you any hope?" Then I need faith to follow Your simple command to toss the empty net of my heart into the sea of blessings. You will fill it beyond my wildest imagination and exceed my immediate need! I’ll jubilantly shout, "It is the Lord!" and others will notice You because of my faith.
Please dear Lord, take my desperate dilemma and turn it into bountiful blessings for Your glorious name. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear, and faith to believe. Amen.
What is your hopeless situation? Do you see the Lord standing in front of you? He’s there if you look beyond the tears. He’s calling, "Friend, haven’t you any hope?" Tell him today that you want to know Him more dearly so that you can clearly see Him, hear Him, and believe Him when your heart is empty.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
2 Corinthians 12: 7-10
7To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Eternal, Invisible, Almighty God-
Thank You for the prickly thorns of trouble and temptation sent to me by Satan. I now know that You authorized him to deliver them to me to keep my heart humble. I’ve repeatedly asked You to remove the pain of my afflictions and addictions. Instead You empowered me with grace to endure them. Your magnificent grace is enough to enlighten and enliven me. It is sufficient to strengthen and soothe me. When I am worn-down, weak, and weary from sadness, sickness, and sin, please purify my heart and fill it with faith to believe in Your almighty power.
By faith, I believe You will turn my hurts to hope, my loss to life, and my difficulties to determination. In the turmoil twisting around me there is a purpose. During chaos and confusion, Your power is manifested and magnified in me. Rather than dreading trials and tests, I need to rejoice in them. Instead of focusing on my inadequacies and insecurities, I need to focus on Your covenant promises to me. You have pledged to keep me, protect me, and teach me. You’ve promised to abide in me and be my strength. Now, I need to walk in faith by acknowledging, accepting, and acting on Your holy name – El Shaddai. To Your all-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty name be the glory forever and ever. Amen
Identify the prickly thorns sent by Satan to torment You. Thank God that they were sent to keep you focused on Him.
Eternal, Invisible, Almighty God-
Thank You for the prickly thorns of trouble and temptation sent to me by Satan. I now know that You authorized him to deliver them to me to keep my heart humble. I’ve repeatedly asked You to remove the pain of my afflictions and addictions. Instead You empowered me with grace to endure them. Your magnificent grace is enough to enlighten and enliven me. It is sufficient to strengthen and soothe me. When I am worn-down, weak, and weary from sadness, sickness, and sin, please purify my heart and fill it with faith to believe in Your almighty power.
By faith, I believe You will turn my hurts to hope, my loss to life, and my difficulties to determination. In the turmoil twisting around me there is a purpose. During chaos and confusion, Your power is manifested and magnified in me. Rather than dreading trials and tests, I need to rejoice in them. Instead of focusing on my inadequacies and insecurities, I need to focus on Your covenant promises to me. You have pledged to keep me, protect me, and teach me. You’ve promised to abide in me and be my strength. Now, I need to walk in faith by acknowledging, accepting, and acting on Your holy name – El Shaddai. To Your all-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty name be the glory forever and ever. Amen
Identify the prickly thorns sent by Satan to torment You. Thank God that they were sent to keep you focused on Him.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Genesis 17: 1-3
1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless. 2 I will confirm my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers."
3 Abram fell facedown.
God Almighty-
Thank You for revealing Yourself to me. You are Elohim, Creator of everything. El Elyon, Sovereign, Most High God who controls everything. El Roi, God who sees everything. El Shaddai, All-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty God. You are my strength and shield. My Great Reward, there is none like You!
I believe You have power over every condition and circumstance in my life. I am convinced that You control all things. There are no accidents. There is no fate or luck. You are large and in charge! I know Your eternal Word is always right and true. You are believable and reliable. Nothing is too big for You. You can do anything, at anytime. There are no mountains to high for You. There are no valleys too low for You. There are no oceans too wide for You. When You speak it is accomplished. You are El Shaddai – keeper of all promises.
So often, like Abram, I focus on the seemingly impossible. Open my eyes to see that You are the God of Impossibilities. I want to believe You are who You say You are. Don’t let me wallow and waver in unbelief. Increase my faith and glorified in me, just like You were with Abram. Fully persuade me that You have the power to do exactly what You say You will do. I want to know You as God Almighty, to walk before You and be blameless. I need faith to believe You.
You have already promised me that Satan can’t destroy me (Job 1: 1-6). No one can harm me. They might be able to strip me of everything I have, but they can’t take my great reward – YOU! You are eternally mine and I am eternally grateful! I believe that You will sustain me, protect me, and keep me for Yourself just as You have promised. You are my all-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty El Shaddai and I will glorify Your holy name forever and ever! Amen
Do you believe God to be all-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty over all of your seemingly impossible situations?
3 Abram fell facedown.
God Almighty-
Thank You for revealing Yourself to me. You are Elohim, Creator of everything. El Elyon, Sovereign, Most High God who controls everything. El Roi, God who sees everything. El Shaddai, All-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty God. You are my strength and shield. My Great Reward, there is none like You!
I believe You have power over every condition and circumstance in my life. I am convinced that You control all things. There are no accidents. There is no fate or luck. You are large and in charge! I know Your eternal Word is always right and true. You are believable and reliable. Nothing is too big for You. You can do anything, at anytime. There are no mountains to high for You. There are no valleys too low for You. There are no oceans too wide for You. When You speak it is accomplished. You are El Shaddai – keeper of all promises.
So often, like Abram, I focus on the seemingly impossible. Open my eyes to see that You are the God of Impossibilities. I want to believe You are who You say You are. Don’t let me wallow and waver in unbelief. Increase my faith and glorified in me, just like You were with Abram. Fully persuade me that You have the power to do exactly what You say You will do. I want to know You as God Almighty, to walk before You and be blameless. I need faith to believe You.
You have already promised me that Satan can’t destroy me (Job 1: 1-6). No one can harm me. They might be able to strip me of everything I have, but they can’t take my great reward – YOU! You are eternally mine and I am eternally grateful! I believe that You will sustain me, protect me, and keep me for Yourself just as You have promised. You are my all-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty El Shaddai and I will glorify Your holy name forever and ever! Amen
Do you believe God to be all-sufficient, all-powerful, almighty over all of your seemingly impossible situations?
Monday, September 19, 2005
Genesis 16
1 Now Sarai, Abram's wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar; 2 so she said to Abram, "The LORD has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family through her." Abram agreed to what Sarai said … 4 He slept with Hagar, and she conceived. When she knew she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress …
6 Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her.
7 The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring in the desert … 8 And he said, "Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?" "I'm running away from my mistress Sarai," she answered.
9 Then the angel of the LORD told her, "Go back to your mistress and submit to her." 10 The angel added, "I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count" …
13 She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me." (El Roi)
My Father in Heaven,
Most High God who rules the universe, You are a God who sees everything! I praise Your glorious name, El Roi because You see even me!
Your Highness, forgive me for all the times I have been like Sarai and taken matters into my own hands. You have a plan for me, just as You had a plan for her. You promise to bless me, protect me, and give me a bright future. Yet, I have trouble believing You! I have my own dreams, hopes and desires. Your plans for me that always prevail. Forgive me for interfering. I’m sorry for all the people I’ve mistreated in trying to receive Your promised blessing on my own. I have failed the test of time by running ahead of You. I am embarrassed and humbly ask You to keep me from evil and deliver me from temptation so that I will not cause others pain.
My Fair King, I have run away from my problems like Hagar. I am afraid of those who have hurt me. I can’t go back and face them. It’s too dangerous. I am a coward. Please breathe Holy Spirit power on me today so that I can stand firm and face my adversaries. You are a great big God who sees me and knows exactly who has perpetrated me. You know what’s happened. Now give me the courage to go back and look the bully right in the face.
When I am fully armored, under Your protection, I believe that You will work all things for good because I am Your beloved child who loves, cherishes and honors You. I believe You are God Most High, my Father, Fairest Ruler of the Universe, who is in control of everything. I believe You are watching over me, empowering me in the name of Jesus. Amen
Are you impatiently trying to get God’s promised blessing on your own? Who have you mistreated in the process? Stop, seek forgiveness from the ones you hurt, and wait for God.
What problem are you running from? Are your problems too big for God? Go back and face them. He will empower you.
6 Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her.
7 The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring in the desert … 8 And he said, "Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?" "I'm running away from my mistress Sarai," she answered.
9 Then the angel of the LORD told her, "Go back to your mistress and submit to her." 10 The angel added, "I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count" …
13 She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me." (El Roi)
My Father in Heaven,
Most High God who rules the universe, You are a God who sees everything! I praise Your glorious name, El Roi because You see even me!
Your Highness, forgive me for all the times I have been like Sarai and taken matters into my own hands. You have a plan for me, just as You had a plan for her. You promise to bless me, protect me, and give me a bright future. Yet, I have trouble believing You! I have my own dreams, hopes and desires. Your plans for me that always prevail. Forgive me for interfering. I’m sorry for all the people I’ve mistreated in trying to receive Your promised blessing on my own. I have failed the test of time by running ahead of You. I am embarrassed and humbly ask You to keep me from evil and deliver me from temptation so that I will not cause others pain.
My Fair King, I have run away from my problems like Hagar. I am afraid of those who have hurt me. I can’t go back and face them. It’s too dangerous. I am a coward. Please breathe Holy Spirit power on me today so that I can stand firm and face my adversaries. You are a great big God who sees me and knows exactly who has perpetrated me. You know what’s happened. Now give me the courage to go back and look the bully right in the face.
When I am fully armored, under Your protection, I believe that You will work all things for good because I am Your beloved child who loves, cherishes and honors You. I believe You are God Most High, my Father, Fairest Ruler of the Universe, who is in control of everything. I believe You are watching over me, empowering me in the name of Jesus. Amen
Are you impatiently trying to get God’s promised blessing on your own? Who have you mistreated in the process? Stop, seek forgiveness from the ones you hurt, and wait for God.
What problem are you running from? Are your problems too big for God? Go back and face them. He will empower you.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Psalm 103: 1-5
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things.
My Loving King~
I bow before Your heavenly throne in awe of Your majesty. You are Most High. Your name is holy and worthy of my praise! Thank You for all the benefits You ascribe to Your beloved children.
You forgive all my sins and give me a clean heart. The next time I choose to wallow in a sea of self-pity over my past, my failures, and weaknesses, remind me that You don’t harbor anger forever. In love, You erased all my mistakes at the cross with the precious blood of Your Only Son. Thank You, Jesus!
You touch me and heal all my diseases because You are the Great Physician. Your healing is not always the physical healing I desire, but it is always spiritual and it is always right. You gently mend the deep tears in my tattered heart. You bandage my injured soul when I come to You in faith. At the foot of the cross, You graciously heal me with blood from Your wounds that drip steadily on my open sores. Thank You for the unending flow of heavenly healing.
You redeem me from the polluted pit by reaching Your clean hand into the muck and mire and pulling me out. You remove the sludge of sin by washing me with the costly blood of the Lamb. When I am clean, You pick up all my broken pieces and glue me together with the bond of Your love. Thank You for saving me and making me whole again.
You crown me with love and kindness because You are my devoted Father and King. I don’t deserve to be forgiven, healed, or redeemed, but you tenderly reach down and scoop me up in Your strong arms. You hold me and teach me to walk with You. In the grip of Grace, I will not fall. Thank You, Father, for holding onto me.
You satisfy the desires of my heart. You give me daily Bread from Heaven, Your Holy Word spoken to me. You quench my thirst with Living Water. When I eat and drink with You I am satisfied. Thank You for Your plentiful provision.
When I recognize the blessings You freely give Your children, I am overwhelmed with joy. With everything that’s in me I praise Your holy name because of the many good gifts You’ve given me. I love You, my Father and King! Make me a blessing today! Amen.
You are a child of the King. Have you claimed the benefits of His royal family? They are yours and they are free! Please take them and be satisfied.
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things.
My Loving King~
I bow before Your heavenly throne in awe of Your majesty. You are Most High. Your name is holy and worthy of my praise! Thank You for all the benefits You ascribe to Your beloved children.
You forgive all my sins and give me a clean heart. The next time I choose to wallow in a sea of self-pity over my past, my failures, and weaknesses, remind me that You don’t harbor anger forever. In love, You erased all my mistakes at the cross with the precious blood of Your Only Son. Thank You, Jesus!
You touch me and heal all my diseases because You are the Great Physician. Your healing is not always the physical healing I desire, but it is always spiritual and it is always right. You gently mend the deep tears in my tattered heart. You bandage my injured soul when I come to You in faith. At the foot of the cross, You graciously heal me with blood from Your wounds that drip steadily on my open sores. Thank You for the unending flow of heavenly healing.
You redeem me from the polluted pit by reaching Your clean hand into the muck and mire and pulling me out. You remove the sludge of sin by washing me with the costly blood of the Lamb. When I am clean, You pick up all my broken pieces and glue me together with the bond of Your love. Thank You for saving me and making me whole again.
You crown me with love and kindness because You are my devoted Father and King. I don’t deserve to be forgiven, healed, or redeemed, but you tenderly reach down and scoop me up in Your strong arms. You hold me and teach me to walk with You. In the grip of Grace, I will not fall. Thank You, Father, for holding onto me.
You satisfy the desires of my heart. You give me daily Bread from Heaven, Your Holy Word spoken to me. You quench my thirst with Living Water. When I eat and drink with You I am satisfied. Thank You for Your plentiful provision.
When I recognize the blessings You freely give Your children, I am overwhelmed with joy. With everything that’s in me I praise Your holy name because of the many good gifts You’ve given me. I love You, my Father and King! Make me a blessing today! Amen.
You are a child of the King. Have you claimed the benefits of His royal family? They are yours and they are free! Please take them and be satisfied.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Matthew 7: 7-11
Jesus said, 7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
Most High King,
Thank You for Your Holy Word spoken to me. As Ruler of the universe, You set the rules and determine the rewards for Your children. The rule that You posted on my heart today is: Ask, Seek and Knock. This is not optional, it's expected from Your children. If we fear Your authority as our Father, the Most High King, we will obey. Our response to Your rules will show how much we love, honor, and respect You. When we submit to Your power, You eagerly reward us. You are a good and loving Father. This rule does not just apply to me, but to every one of Your children.
You promise to give us whatever we ask for. However, You will only give us good gifts. The problem is that we often ask for candy and coke. You don't want us filling up on junk food because it's unhealthy. Instead, You want to provide us with a healthy spiritual feast that will make our hearts, minds and bodies strong like Jesus. Teach us to ask for fish rather than snakes!
You promise that if we seek we will find. The problem is we often seek cheap baubles and trinkets when You want us to find Holy Treasure. In the Treasure Chest of Your Word, we will find brilliant, valuable gems that sparkle and glimmer. If we seek Your Treasure we will be wealthier than we could ever imagine! We will find an incredible inheritance that's ours to claim. Teach us to seek the rich beauty of Your face, our Heavenly Treasure.
You promise that if we knock the door will be open. The problem is we're knocking on the wrong door. When we know You personally, we will know where You live and which door to knock on. When we knock on Your door, You will open it and invite us in. You will light the fire in the hearth of our heart and dwell there with us. You will sit and speak to us giving us wisdom and understanding. Teach us to know You so that we will knock on the door of Your heart.
Father, You are so good! Abundant blessings await us if we will only obey by asking for Your will, seeking Heavenly Treasure, and knocking on the right door. Open the eyes of our hearts today to believe Your rules and receive Your rewards! Amen.
Ask, Seek and Knock. It's a command. Will you obey? God promises good gifts to His obedient children.
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
Most High King,
Thank You for Your Holy Word spoken to me. As Ruler of the universe, You set the rules and determine the rewards for Your children. The rule that You posted on my heart today is: Ask, Seek and Knock. This is not optional, it's expected from Your children. If we fear Your authority as our Father, the Most High King, we will obey. Our response to Your rules will show how much we love, honor, and respect You. When we submit to Your power, You eagerly reward us. You are a good and loving Father. This rule does not just apply to me, but to every one of Your children.
You promise to give us whatever we ask for. However, You will only give us good gifts. The problem is that we often ask for candy and coke. You don't want us filling up on junk food because it's unhealthy. Instead, You want to provide us with a healthy spiritual feast that will make our hearts, minds and bodies strong like Jesus. Teach us to ask for fish rather than snakes!
You promise that if we seek we will find. The problem is we often seek cheap baubles and trinkets when You want us to find Holy Treasure. In the Treasure Chest of Your Word, we will find brilliant, valuable gems that sparkle and glimmer. If we seek Your Treasure we will be wealthier than we could ever imagine! We will find an incredible inheritance that's ours to claim. Teach us to seek the rich beauty of Your face, our Heavenly Treasure.
You promise that if we knock the door will be open. The problem is we're knocking on the wrong door. When we know You personally, we will know where You live and which door to knock on. When we knock on Your door, You will open it and invite us in. You will light the fire in the hearth of our heart and dwell there with us. You will sit and speak to us giving us wisdom and understanding. Teach us to know You so that we will knock on the door of Your heart.
Father, You are so good! Abundant blessings await us if we will only obey by asking for Your will, seeking Heavenly Treasure, and knocking on the right door. Open the eyes of our hearts today to believe Your rules and receive Your rewards! Amen.
Ask, Seek and Knock. It's a command. Will you obey? God promises good gifts to His obedient children.
Matthew 7: 7-11
Jesus said, 7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
Most High King,
Thank You for Your Holy Word spoken to me. As Ruler of the universe, You set the rules and determine the rewards for Your children. The rule that You posted on my heart today is: Ask, Seek and Knock. This is not optional, it's expected from Your children. If we fear Your authority as our Father, the Most High King, we will obey. Our response to Your rules will show how much we love, honor, and respect You. When we submit to Your power, You eagerly reward us. You are a good and loving Father. This rule does not just apply to me, but to every one of Your children.
You promise to give us whatever we ask for. However, You will only give us good gifts. The problem is that we often ask for candy and coke. You don't want us filling up on junk food because it's unhealthy. Instead, You want to provide us with a healthy spiritual feast that will make our hearts, minds and bodies strong like Jesus. Teach us to ask for fish rather than snakes!
You promise that if we seek we will find. The problem is we often seek cheap baubles and trinkets when You want us to find Holy Treasure. In the Treasure Chest of Your Word, we will find brilliant, valuable gems that sparkle and glimmer. If we seek Your Treasure we will be wealthier than we could ever imagine! We will find an incredible inheritance that's ours to claim. Teach us to seek the rich beauty of Your face, our Heavenly Treasure.
You promise that if we knock the door will be open. The problem is we're knocking on the wrong door. When we know You personally, we will know where You live and which door to knock on. When we knock on Your door, You will open it and invite us in. You will light the fire in the hearth of our heart and dwell there with us. You will sit and speak to us giving us wisdom and understanding. Teach us to know You so that we will knock on the door of Your heart.
Father, You are so good! Abundant blessings await us if we will only obey by asking for Your will, seeking Heavenly Treasure, and knocking on the right door. Open the eyes of our hearts today to believe Your rules and receive Your rewards! Amen.
Ask, Seek and Knock. It's a command. Will you obey? God promises good gifts to His obedient children.
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
Most High King,
Thank You for Your Holy Word spoken to me. As Ruler of the universe, You set the rules and determine the rewards for Your children. The rule that You posted on my heart today is: Ask, Seek and Knock. This is not optional, it's expected from Your children. If we fear Your authority as our Father, the Most High King, we will obey. Our response to Your rules will show how much we love, honor, and respect You. When we submit to Your power, You eagerly reward us. You are a good and loving Father. This rule does not just apply to me, but to every one of Your children.
You promise to give us whatever we ask for. However, You will only give us good gifts. The problem is that we often ask for candy and coke. You don't want us filling up on junk food because it's unhealthy. Instead, You want to provide us with a healthy spiritual feast that will make our hearts, minds and bodies strong like Jesus. Teach us to ask for fish rather than snakes!
You promise that if we seek we will find. The problem is we often seek cheap baubles and trinkets when You want us to find Holy Treasure. In the Treasure Chest of Your Word, we will find brilliant, valuable gems that sparkle and glimmer. If we seek Your Treasure we will be wealthier than we could ever imagine! We will find an incredible inheritance that's ours to claim. Teach us to seek the rich beauty of Your face, our Heavenly Treasure.
You promise that if we knock the door will be open. The problem is we're knocking on the wrong door. When we know You personally, we will know where You live and which door to knock on. When we knock on Your door, You will open it and invite us in. You will light the fire in the hearth of our heart and dwell there with us. You will sit and speak to us giving us wisdom and understanding. Teach us to know You so that we will knock on the door of Your heart.
Father, You are so good! Abundant blessings await us if we will only obey by asking for Your will, seeking Heavenly Treasure, and knocking on the right door. Open the eyes of our hearts today to believe Your rules and receive Your rewards! Amen.
Ask, Seek and Knock. It's a command. Will you obey? God promises good gifts to His obedient children.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
John 7: 37-39
37On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." 39By this he meant the Spirit…"
God of Wonders,
You are the Spirit of Living Water, the same Spirit who hovered over the shapeless earth in the beginning. You hover over me! Hovering over my heart, You prepare me to love You and serve others. Hovering over my mind, You prepare me to understand the Truth of Your Holy Word. Hovering over my will, You prepare me to make right choices that are pleasing to You. Hovering over me, in a loud voice, You spoke power into me! I believe Your power is now my power! Energize me! Strengthen me! Form me into the person You created me to be. Be glorified in me!
Joyfully, I come to drink the never-ending stream of pure Living Water flowing from the full well of my salvation. With each sweet sip, draw me closer to You. As I spend time reading, reflecting, and responding to Your Word, the Bible, let the Spirit of Truth fill me. Saturated in Scripture, I will have the holy power to separate myself from the pleasure of sin I once enjoyed. Overflowing with the ecstatic joy of knowing You, Jesus, Your love will naturally pour out to those around me. Others will touch the stream of Living Water and feel Your Presence.
Please dear Lord, guard my heart. Guide me into all Truth. Do not let me become stagnant with the sludge of sin. Show me the gunk clogging the flow and I will remove it with confession and repentance. Contaminated water is not attractive or useful. Spirit of the Living God hover over me. Cleanse my contaminated mind. Use me to quench thirsty souls scorched with sin. I am Yours O Lord. Increase Your glory through the Living Water flowing in me and through me for Your name sake. Amen.
Did you notice that Jesus said in a loud voice, "Come to me and drink"? He is expecting you! Go sip the sweetness of His Word as He speaks to You through the Bible today. Blessings will flow in you and through you!
God of Wonders,
You are the Spirit of Living Water, the same Spirit who hovered over the shapeless earth in the beginning. You hover over me! Hovering over my heart, You prepare me to love You and serve others. Hovering over my mind, You prepare me to understand the Truth of Your Holy Word. Hovering over my will, You prepare me to make right choices that are pleasing to You. Hovering over me, in a loud voice, You spoke power into me! I believe Your power is now my power! Energize me! Strengthen me! Form me into the person You created me to be. Be glorified in me!
Joyfully, I come to drink the never-ending stream of pure Living Water flowing from the full well of my salvation. With each sweet sip, draw me closer to You. As I spend time reading, reflecting, and responding to Your Word, the Bible, let the Spirit of Truth fill me. Saturated in Scripture, I will have the holy power to separate myself from the pleasure of sin I once enjoyed. Overflowing with the ecstatic joy of knowing You, Jesus, Your love will naturally pour out to those around me. Others will touch the stream of Living Water and feel Your Presence.
Please dear Lord, guard my heart. Guide me into all Truth. Do not let me become stagnant with the sludge of sin. Show me the gunk clogging the flow and I will remove it with confession and repentance. Contaminated water is not attractive or useful. Spirit of the Living God hover over me. Cleanse my contaminated mind. Use me to quench thirsty souls scorched with sin. I am Yours O Lord. Increase Your glory through the Living Water flowing in me and through me for Your name sake. Amen.
Did you notice that Jesus said in a loud voice, "Come to me and drink"? He is expecting you! Go sip the sweetness of His Word as He speaks to You through the Bible today. Blessings will flow in you and through you!
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
John 6: 35, 51
Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world."
Bread of Heaven,
I praise You, my Heavenly Father and King who provides my daily bread.
Feed me! Fill me! Sustain me! There’s nothing I crave more than tasting the sweetness of Your holy Word spoken to me. Hungry, I come, seeking nourishment for my starving soul. Freely I partake of Your sweet salvation, believing every morsel from Your mouth will satisfy me. I’ll savor the rich flavor of Your forgiveness forever!
Having spent time alone with You in prayerful reflection on Your holy Word, I am satisfied by Your sacrifice. Thank You, Father for giving me sufficient resources to feed the needy crowd surrounding me. With Your blessing, I will share the Bread of Life with anyone who opens his or her hands to receive it.
Lord, here I am. Take all of me. Bless me. Break me. Use me to feed Your sweet salvation to the hungry. When I feed the multitudes, You will be glorified. Thank You for my daily Bread. I love You! Amen.
Do you partake of sweet Bread from Heaven every day by spending time in God's Word? It is a free, never-ending smorgasbord for us to enjoy and share with others every day of our life! Praise God!
Bread of Heaven,
I praise You, my Heavenly Father and King who provides my daily bread.
Feed me! Fill me! Sustain me! There’s nothing I crave more than tasting the sweetness of Your holy Word spoken to me. Hungry, I come, seeking nourishment for my starving soul. Freely I partake of Your sweet salvation, believing every morsel from Your mouth will satisfy me. I’ll savor the rich flavor of Your forgiveness forever!
Having spent time alone with You in prayerful reflection on Your holy Word, I am satisfied by Your sacrifice. Thank You, Father for giving me sufficient resources to feed the needy crowd surrounding me. With Your blessing, I will share the Bread of Life with anyone who opens his or her hands to receive it.
Lord, here I am. Take all of me. Bless me. Break me. Use me to feed Your sweet salvation to the hungry. When I feed the multitudes, You will be glorified. Thank You for my daily Bread. I love You! Amen.
Do you partake of sweet Bread from Heaven every day by spending time in God's Word? It is a free, never-ending smorgasbord for us to enjoy and share with others every day of our life! Praise God!
Monday, September 12, 2005
Job 1: 6-12
6 One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. 7 The LORD said to Satan, "Where have you come from?" Satan answered the LORD, "From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it."
8 Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil."
9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. 10 "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face."
12 The LORD said to Satan, "Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger." Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD.
My Father, El Elyon
God Most High. You rule over the universe from Your heavenly throne. All power and might belong to You. Nothing can happen without your permission. Satan has to answer to Your Highness. Knowing and believing the truth about Your sovereignty makes it easier to obey Your command to rejoice and give thanks in ALL things.
When others mistreat me, I can give thanks. In the midst of misfortune, I can rejoice. Through difficult circumstances You are building and strengthening my character. If I believe You are who You say You are, God Most High, who rules and overrules everything in heaven and earth, I will trust Your perfect love to see me through the storm.
Just because I love and respect You doesn’t mean You won’t allow bad things to happen. Many people have superficial faith, believing You when things are going well, but denying You life gets rough. Adversity destroys superficial faith, but strengthens real faith. Do I really believe You? If I do, I will cling tightly to You. You will be my Life Line. Firmly attached to You with the belt of Truth, I will praise Your heavenly name, and recognize You for who You are and not for what You give.
It helps me to know that Satan has to ask Your permission to torment me. While You allow him to do so, to test my faith, You also put limits on him. He can take away all my possessions, and my family, but He can’t destroy me! I am Yours! Please dear Lord, give me faith to believe so that I can stand firm like Job through the storms of life. Amen.
During difficult circumstances do you cling to the Life Line of God Most High or do You abandon Him?
Faith isn’t faith until it’s tested.
8 Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil."
9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. 10 "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face."
12 The LORD said to Satan, "Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger." Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD.
My Father, El Elyon
God Most High. You rule over the universe from Your heavenly throne. All power and might belong to You. Nothing can happen without your permission. Satan has to answer to Your Highness. Knowing and believing the truth about Your sovereignty makes it easier to obey Your command to rejoice and give thanks in ALL things.
When others mistreat me, I can give thanks. In the midst of misfortune, I can rejoice. Through difficult circumstances You are building and strengthening my character. If I believe You are who You say You are, God Most High, who rules and overrules everything in heaven and earth, I will trust Your perfect love to see me through the storm.
Just because I love and respect You doesn’t mean You won’t allow bad things to happen. Many people have superficial faith, believing You when things are going well, but denying You life gets rough. Adversity destroys superficial faith, but strengthens real faith. Do I really believe You? If I do, I will cling tightly to You. You will be my Life Line. Firmly attached to You with the belt of Truth, I will praise Your heavenly name, and recognize You for who You are and not for what You give.
It helps me to know that Satan has to ask Your permission to torment me. While You allow him to do so, to test my faith, You also put limits on him. He can take away all my possessions, and my family, but He can’t destroy me! I am Yours! Please dear Lord, give me faith to believe so that I can stand firm like Job through the storms of life. Amen.
During difficult circumstances do you cling to the Life Line of God Most High or do You abandon Him?
Faith isn’t faith until it’s tested.
Friday, September 09, 2005
Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
Almighty God-
You are my One and Only true source of escape and protection. Forgive me for relying on chariots and horses: family and friends, money and materialism, desires and dreams for security.
In times of distress, I need to run right into Your all-sufficient strong arms. Rather than collapsing during crisis and conflict I can stand firm with You. When inadequacy and insecurity immobilize me I can aggressively look them in the eye and boast in Your powerful name! You are my God, strong and mighty! I want to have complete confidence in who You are so that I can trust in Your holy name.
When my heart is heavy and fear is settling in my soul I want to escape to the safety of Your presence. Because of Your unfailing love, You promise that I will stand firm. I believe you. I may lose my friends and family, money and materialism, desires and dreams but I will never, ever lose my relationship with You. Trusting You is my only hope and peace.
Assured of the saving power of Your strong right hand, I will rejoice in my salvation. In the shelter of Your protection I will celebrate victory by worshipping and praising Your wonderful name. To Your name be the glory and power forever! Amen.
Who or what are you placing your trust in?
but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
Almighty God-
You are my One and Only true source of escape and protection. Forgive me for relying on chariots and horses: family and friends, money and materialism, desires and dreams for security.
In times of distress, I need to run right into Your all-sufficient strong arms. Rather than collapsing during crisis and conflict I can stand firm with You. When inadequacy and insecurity immobilize me I can aggressively look them in the eye and boast in Your powerful name! You are my God, strong and mighty! I want to have complete confidence in who You are so that I can trust in Your holy name.
When my heart is heavy and fear is settling in my soul I want to escape to the safety of Your presence. Because of Your unfailing love, You promise that I will stand firm. I believe you. I may lose my friends and family, money and materialism, desires and dreams but I will never, ever lose my relationship with You. Trusting You is my only hope and peace.
Assured of the saving power of Your strong right hand, I will rejoice in my salvation. In the shelter of Your protection I will celebrate victory by worshipping and praising Your wonderful name. To Your name be the glory and power forever! Amen.
Who or what are you placing your trust in?
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
Isaiah 50:
10 Who among you fears the LORD
and obeys the word of his servant?
Let him who walks in the dark,
who has no light,
trust in the name of the LORD
and rely on his God.
O God Most High~
You are my Protector. The hideous hounds of trouble, worry and fear harass me. The wicked wolves of corruption and temptation are right on my tail, ready to devour me. I’m exhausted, weak and can’t run any further! Help me run right into Your wide open arms. Catch me! Hide me in the shelter of Your glorious name where brutal beasts cannot besiege me.
In the safety of Your presence, teach me who You really are. By faith, I will believe You. Trusting in Your magnificent name, I will know where to run to escape the dastardly dogs of desire and discontentment that are badgering me. As I get to know You better, I will learn to fully rely on You, the One and Only true God, my Savior. Blessed be Your beautiful name forever and ever. Amen.
What trouble is chasing you? Who are you running to?
Isaiah 50:
10 Who among you fears the LORD
and obeys the word of his servant?
Let him who walks in the dark,
who has no light,
trust in the name of the LORD
and rely on his God.
O God Most High~
You are my Protector. The hideous hounds of trouble, worry and fear harass me. The wicked wolves of corruption and temptation are right on my tail, ready to devour me. I’m exhausted, weak and can’t run any further! Help me run right into Your wide open arms. Catch me! Hide me in the shelter of Your glorious name where brutal beasts cannot besiege me.
In the safety of Your presence, teach me who You really are. By faith, I will believe You. Trusting in Your magnificent name, I will know where to run to escape the dastardly dogs of desire and discontentment that are badgering me. As I get to know You better, I will learn to fully rely on You, the One and Only true God, my Savior. Blessed be Your beautiful name forever and ever. Amen.
What trouble is chasing you? Who are you running to?
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Ecclesiastes 2: 10-11
10 I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor.
11 Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.
El Elyon
You are Ruler of everything. God Most High. Divine Authority.
Thank You for the lessons we can learn from the wise King Solomon. He had it all – power, authority, prestige, money, success, wisdom, and knowledge – but in the end, he realized it was meaningless. Lord, I too pursue pleasure – often denying myself nothing my eye desires. I refuse my heart few pleasures.
I work hard with the wisdom, knowledge, and skill You’ve given me. You have greatly rewarded my efforts with the richest of blessings! However, I am not in control of it. I am powerless! I can now clearly see and understand that in a heart beat it could all be gone. A hurricane could destroy it. A fire could burn it. An earthquake could shatter it. Sickness could render it useless. An accident could end it all.
When I die I can’t take any of my possessions with me. Naked I came into the world and naked I’ll leave it. No matter how hard I work, I cannot catch the wind and hold it in my hands. It’s impossible. You direct my every step. Everything in my life is under Your control. My El Elyon is the only One who can can satisfy the deep longings and desires of my heart. Please possess me, Most High God! I am Yours, O Lord.
Help me Lord, to live my life on purpose in the present. I don’t want to look back some day and realize that I’ve wasted my life on meaningless activities. Please show me Lord, what is important to You. How do You want me to invest my time, energy and money in order to love You and serve others? Please give me more knowledge, wisdom and happiness as I live in Your Light. All I want is an everlasting portion of Your love and the blessings that come from living for You. You and You alone are my joy and righteousness. I need to know You more so that I can live a life pleasing to You. In the light of Your blessing I will gain everything under the Son. Amen.
What pleasures and treasures are you pursuing? If a natural disaster were to strike your home town today, how would you respond to the loss of them?
In light of the incredible loss from the hurricane, I encourage you to seek and understand the true meaning of life. Read, reflect and respond to Ecclesiastes.
11 Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.
El Elyon
You are Ruler of everything. God Most High. Divine Authority.
Thank You for the lessons we can learn from the wise King Solomon. He had it all – power, authority, prestige, money, success, wisdom, and knowledge – but in the end, he realized it was meaningless. Lord, I too pursue pleasure – often denying myself nothing my eye desires. I refuse my heart few pleasures.
I work hard with the wisdom, knowledge, and skill You’ve given me. You have greatly rewarded my efforts with the richest of blessings! However, I am not in control of it. I am powerless! I can now clearly see and understand that in a heart beat it could all be gone. A hurricane could destroy it. A fire could burn it. An earthquake could shatter it. Sickness could render it useless. An accident could end it all.
When I die I can’t take any of my possessions with me. Naked I came into the world and naked I’ll leave it. No matter how hard I work, I cannot catch the wind and hold it in my hands. It’s impossible. You direct my every step. Everything in my life is under Your control. My El Elyon is the only One who can can satisfy the deep longings and desires of my heart. Please possess me, Most High God! I am Yours, O Lord.
Help me Lord, to live my life on purpose in the present. I don’t want to look back some day and realize that I’ve wasted my life on meaningless activities. Please show me Lord, what is important to You. How do You want me to invest my time, energy and money in order to love You and serve others? Please give me more knowledge, wisdom and happiness as I live in Your Light. All I want is an everlasting portion of Your love and the blessings that come from living for You. You and You alone are my joy and righteousness. I need to know You more so that I can live a life pleasing to You. In the light of Your blessing I will gain everything under the Son. Amen.
What pleasures and treasures are you pursuing? If a natural disaster were to strike your home town today, how would you respond to the loss of them?
In light of the incredible loss from the hurricane, I encourage you to seek and understand the true meaning of life. Read, reflect and respond to Ecclesiastes.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Daniel 4: 34-35
Daniel 4: 34-35
34 At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever.
His dominion is an eternal dominion;
his kingdom endures from generation to generation.
35 All the peoples of the earth
are regarded as nothing.
He does as he pleases
with the powers of heaven
and the peoples of the earth.
No one can hold back his hand
or say to him: "What have you done?"
El Elyon
God Most High
King of Heaven
Creator and Possessor the Universe
I praise, exalt and glorify Your holy name. You are sovereign. There are no gods like You in heaven or on earth. You are Most High. Ruler of everything! Everything belongs to You. You are in control of everything. Everything You do is right and fair, even though we may not see it that way. We are not capable of understanding the magnitude of Your greatness.
As I look with disbelief at the catastrophe of Katrina, I recognize that we are powerless. All power belongs to You. As a nation, we are proud of our riches. We are arrogant. We are haughty. We think we are mighty and indestructible. Those who walk in pride, You humble. The things we accumulate are gone in a flash. The rich have become poor. No one has anything.
From now on, I will try to trust You, El Elyon, to meet all my needs. I will do my best to surrender my life, my family and my future totally to Your care. As the rightful Owner of everything, possess me too. Take control of my life. Rule over everything I am and everything I do. Possessed by You, my faith will increase with every wondrous revelation You give me.
I want to believe that You are in absolute control of all things – hurricanes, tsunamis, tornadoes – all events and circumstances. I want to face the storms of life calmly, testifying, "My El Elyon has everything under control." Please reveal to me the mysteries of who You are. Restore to me honor and splendor for the glory of Your kingdom. Through the storms, make me greater than I ever was before. Be exalted O God above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth forever and ever. Amen.
Who’s in control of your life? God Most High (El Elyon) or you? I encourage you to surrender everything to El Elyon so that when catastrophe strikes You will know and believe that He is in charge.
34 At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever.
His dominion is an eternal dominion;
his kingdom endures from generation to generation.
35 All the peoples of the earth
are regarded as nothing.
He does as he pleases
with the powers of heaven
and the peoples of the earth.
No one can hold back his hand
or say to him: "What have you done?"
El Elyon
God Most High
King of Heaven
Creator and Possessor the Universe
I praise, exalt and glorify Your holy name. You are sovereign. There are no gods like You in heaven or on earth. You are Most High. Ruler of everything! Everything belongs to You. You are in control of everything. Everything You do is right and fair, even though we may not see it that way. We are not capable of understanding the magnitude of Your greatness.
As I look with disbelief at the catastrophe of Katrina, I recognize that we are powerless. All power belongs to You. As a nation, we are proud of our riches. We are arrogant. We are haughty. We think we are mighty and indestructible. Those who walk in pride, You humble. The things we accumulate are gone in a flash. The rich have become poor. No one has anything.
From now on, I will try to trust You, El Elyon, to meet all my needs. I will do my best to surrender my life, my family and my future totally to Your care. As the rightful Owner of everything, possess me too. Take control of my life. Rule over everything I am and everything I do. Possessed by You, my faith will increase with every wondrous revelation You give me.
I want to believe that You are in absolute control of all things – hurricanes, tsunamis, tornadoes – all events and circumstances. I want to face the storms of life calmly, testifying, "My El Elyon has everything under control." Please reveal to me the mysteries of who You are. Restore to me honor and splendor for the glory of Your kingdom. Through the storms, make me greater than I ever was before. Be exalted O God above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth forever and ever. Amen.
Who’s in control of your life? God Most High (El Elyon) or you? I encourage you to surrender everything to El Elyon so that when catastrophe strikes You will know and believe that He is in charge.
Friday, September 02, 2005
1 Peter 1: 3-11
3As we know Jesus better, his divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life. He has called us to receive his own glory and goodness! 4And by that same mighty power, he has given us all of his rich and wonderful promises. He has promised that you will escape the decadence all around you caused by evil desires and that you will share in his divine nature.
5So make every effort to apply the benefits of these promises to your life. Then your faith will produce a life of moral excellence. A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better.
6Knowing God leads to self-control. Self-control leads to patient endurance, and patient endurance leads to godliness. 7Godliness leads to love for other Christians, and finally you will grow to have genuine love for everyone. 8The more you grow like this, the more you will become productive and useful in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But those who fail to develop these virtues are blind or, at least, very shortsighted. They have already forgotten that God has cleansed them from their old life of sin.
10So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Doing this, you will never stumble or fall away. 11And God will open wide the gates of heaven for you to enter into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. NLT
Righteous God,
My faith is precious! As I grow in my knowledge of You grace and peace are abundantly mine. Thank You!
Your divine power gives me everything I need to live a godly life that glorifies You. Thank You for Your many wonderful promises. They are valuable treasures for my heart and soul. When I believe You and claim them, I can escape corruption and temptation.
Day by day, I see more clearly that it is not enough to believe in You. I must KNOW You and BELIEVE You. When I apply Your promises to my heart and mind I can live a life of moral excellence. As I become more familiar with You and Your plan for my life, I will be able to exercise self-control. With an attitude of gratitude I will be able to cheerfully submit to the fiery trials of suffering. Persevering through pain will purify me, producing Christ-like characteristics in me. My troubles and tribulations will make me more tolerant of my brothers and sisters. Hard times will tender my heart to love the unlovable.
The more I learn and grow in my knowledge of You, the more useful I will be to You. Please open the eyes of my heart Lord! Remove the blinding scales of sin. I want to see You. I want to be like You.
I promise to work as hard as I can to learn more about You. Please show me until I clearly see. I want to prove to the weary and watching world around me that I belong to Your royal family. I am the child You chose and adopted. Let me live like it. When I do, You say I will never stumble and fall. I believe You.
I look forward with heavenly hope to a rich welcome into Your everlasting kingdom where my King reigns. I eagerly anticipate reigning there with You forever and ever because of Jesus. Amen.
Do you have a burning desire to know God? How much time will you spend with Him today?
5So make every effort to apply the benefits of these promises to your life. Then your faith will produce a life of moral excellence. A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better.
6Knowing God leads to self-control. Self-control leads to patient endurance, and patient endurance leads to godliness. 7Godliness leads to love for other Christians, and finally you will grow to have genuine love for everyone. 8The more you grow like this, the more you will become productive and useful in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But those who fail to develop these virtues are blind or, at least, very shortsighted. They have already forgotten that God has cleansed them from their old life of sin.
10So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Doing this, you will never stumble or fall away. 11And God will open wide the gates of heaven for you to enter into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. NLT
Righteous God,
My faith is precious! As I grow in my knowledge of You grace and peace are abundantly mine. Thank You!
Your divine power gives me everything I need to live a godly life that glorifies You. Thank You for Your many wonderful promises. They are valuable treasures for my heart and soul. When I believe You and claim them, I can escape corruption and temptation.
Day by day, I see more clearly that it is not enough to believe in You. I must KNOW You and BELIEVE You. When I apply Your promises to my heart and mind I can live a life of moral excellence. As I become more familiar with You and Your plan for my life, I will be able to exercise self-control. With an attitude of gratitude I will be able to cheerfully submit to the fiery trials of suffering. Persevering through pain will purify me, producing Christ-like characteristics in me. My troubles and tribulations will make me more tolerant of my brothers and sisters. Hard times will tender my heart to love the unlovable.
The more I learn and grow in my knowledge of You, the more useful I will be to You. Please open the eyes of my heart Lord! Remove the blinding scales of sin. I want to see You. I want to be like You.
I promise to work as hard as I can to learn more about You. Please show me until I clearly see. I want to prove to the weary and watching world around me that I belong to Your royal family. I am the child You chose and adopted. Let me live like it. When I do, You say I will never stumble and fall. I believe You.
I look forward with heavenly hope to a rich welcome into Your everlasting kingdom where my King reigns. I eagerly anticipate reigning there with You forever and ever because of Jesus. Amen.
Do you have a burning desire to know God? How much time will you spend with Him today?
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Knowing God in the Storm
My heart is heavy for the people in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama who are suffering today from Katrina’s fury. Last October I was in Gulf Port, MS for business and stayed at the Grand Casino on the gulf coast. The sea swallowed it. I think of all the people who served me during my visit there. I think of the shattered lives of my customers. As I sought God for these poor souls, He took me to the following Scripture and spoke hope to my grieving heart, affirming my desire to know Him more.
Habakkuk 3: 10, 15-19
10Torrents of water swept by;
the deep roared and lifted its waves on high.
15 You trampled the sea with your horses,
churning the great waters.
16 I heard and my heart pounded,
my lips quivered at the sound;
decay crept into my bones,
and my legs trembled.
Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity
to come on the nation invading us.
17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and
the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights.
Isaiah 51:
15 For I am the LORD your God,
who churns up the sea so that its waves roar—
the LORD Almighty is his name.
Lord God, Almighty,
I am in awe of Your strength and power. As I look upon the death and destruction in this great nation, I see Your might and majesty. You are the Sovereign Lord who tosses the sea and makes its waves rumble. I watched in horror as torrents of water swept by, devouring people and possessions like a hungry lion. Nothing remains but You, Lord God Almighty.
You have shown me that power, prestige and possessions could not save one soul. In the end, the storm destroyed everything regardless of status. Everyone is equally hungry, homeless and helpless. The only thing that matters is knowing You, Jesus. Stripped of everything, You are the only One thing left to cling to. You have taught me to hold loosely to my comforts and possessions so that I can cheerfully bear up under my agonizing cross of affliction.
Fill me Jehovah, to overflowing with more of Jesus. In the midst of catastrophe, I want to delight in my salvation. When I am empty and poor, I desire to be full and rich of Jesus joy. Sitting on a heap of ruins, with all my earthly comforts gone, I want to be able to praise and worship Your glorious name. You are the One and Only True God, my Savior.
God, I lift up the victims of destruction to Your holy name. Supply them with Your amazing grace. Comfort them with Your sweet Spirit. Draw them near to You. Save them by Your mighty hand. Be their shelter and comfort. Strengthen them through these tough times. Give them patient endurance during the difficult days ahead. Enlarge their hearts so that they will see You in the midst of their losses and crosses. May they find healing balm for every wound in Your all-sufficient name. Be a fragrant ointment for their sad and sick souls.
We are a nation perplexed and anguished by the damage from the raging sea. Terror and trepidation are causing people to wonder what is going on in the world. Now more than ever, we need to know You as Jehovah, the great I AM. We need to believe You are sufficient because You are All that is left. God, save the people! Redeem them from their misery! Revive us, as a nation, O Lord!
I see You coming in great power and glory. Your kingdom is near! Heaven and earth may pass away, but You will last forever – Jehovah, my great and unchanging Lord. I believe You because of Jesus. Amen.
While we can see the devastating storms of nature, there are also unseen storms of the heart that cause turmoil and wreck havoc in our lives. What storms are you facing? Do you know the Lord as Jehovah, the great I AM? Can you let go of your "stuff" and fully rely on His power? Recognize that you are powerless. He is the Only thing that matters.
Habakkuk 3: 10, 15-19
10Torrents of water swept by;
the deep roared and lifted its waves on high.
15 You trampled the sea with your horses,
churning the great waters.
16 I heard and my heart pounded,
my lips quivered at the sound;
decay crept into my bones,
and my legs trembled.
Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity
to come on the nation invading us.
17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and
the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights.
Isaiah 51:
15 For I am the LORD your God,
who churns up the sea so that its waves roar—
the LORD Almighty is his name.
Lord God, Almighty,
I am in awe of Your strength and power. As I look upon the death and destruction in this great nation, I see Your might and majesty. You are the Sovereign Lord who tosses the sea and makes its waves rumble. I watched in horror as torrents of water swept by, devouring people and possessions like a hungry lion. Nothing remains but You, Lord God Almighty.
You have shown me that power, prestige and possessions could not save one soul. In the end, the storm destroyed everything regardless of status. Everyone is equally hungry, homeless and helpless. The only thing that matters is knowing You, Jesus. Stripped of everything, You are the only One thing left to cling to. You have taught me to hold loosely to my comforts and possessions so that I can cheerfully bear up under my agonizing cross of affliction.
Fill me Jehovah, to overflowing with more of Jesus. In the midst of catastrophe, I want to delight in my salvation. When I am empty and poor, I desire to be full and rich of Jesus joy. Sitting on a heap of ruins, with all my earthly comforts gone, I want to be able to praise and worship Your glorious name. You are the One and Only True God, my Savior.
God, I lift up the victims of destruction to Your holy name. Supply them with Your amazing grace. Comfort them with Your sweet Spirit. Draw them near to You. Save them by Your mighty hand. Be their shelter and comfort. Strengthen them through these tough times. Give them patient endurance during the difficult days ahead. Enlarge their hearts so that they will see You in the midst of their losses and crosses. May they find healing balm for every wound in Your all-sufficient name. Be a fragrant ointment for their sad and sick souls.
We are a nation perplexed and anguished by the damage from the raging sea. Terror and trepidation are causing people to wonder what is going on in the world. Now more than ever, we need to know You as Jehovah, the great I AM. We need to believe You are sufficient because You are All that is left. God, save the people! Redeem them from their misery! Revive us, as a nation, O Lord!
I see You coming in great power and glory. Your kingdom is near! Heaven and earth may pass away, but You will last forever – Jehovah, my great and unchanging Lord. I believe You because of Jesus. Amen.
While we can see the devastating storms of nature, there are also unseen storms of the heart that cause turmoil and wreck havoc in our lives. What storms are you facing? Do you know the Lord as Jehovah, the great I AM? Can you let go of your "stuff" and fully rely on His power? Recognize that you are powerless. He is the Only thing that matters.
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