Psalm 103:1-5
Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
Who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
Who satisfies your desires with good things.
Our Loving King~We bow before Your heavenly throne in awe of Your Majesty. You are Lord Most High. Your name is Holy! Thank You for all the gifts You generously give to Your beloved children.
You forgive ALL our mistakes - past, present and future; BIG, Middle-sized, and small. The next time we choose to wallow in a sea of self-pity remind us that You don't harbor a grudge. In love, all our errors were erased at the Cross with the precious blood of Your Only Son. Thank You, Jesus!
You are the Great Physician who touches and heals our heart disease. Gently, You mend the deep gashes, scrape away the calluses, and bandage our injured souls by Your stripes. Compassionately, the capillaries preventing Your love from steadily flowing through us are unclogged. Thank You for providing unending heavenly healing.
Reaching Your long fingers into the messy muck and mire of our lives, You pull us out of the polluted pit and redeem us. With the sludge of sin washed away by the blood of the Lamb, we sparkle and shine like never before. We are free to live above shame and reproach.
Thank You for changing us.
Because you are a doting and loving Father, You crown us with love and kindness. We don't deserve to be forgiven, healed, or redeemed, but it delights You to give us these treasures. You are pleased to embrace us and teach us to walk Your way. Thank You, Father, that Your hands are wide enough to hold the whole world.
In Your presence the desires of our hearts are satisfied. You give us a never-ending supply of Bread from Heaven, Your Holy Word. Our thirsty souls are continuously quenched with fresh water from the River of Life. There is nothing more rewarding or tranquil than communing with You. Thank You for Your plentiful provision. Recognizing the incredibly good gifts You've given us in the name of Jesus, we stand up and sing to You, our Father and King! Make us a blessing today! Amen.
If You are a child of God, You are a child of the King and the heir of these incredibly good and generous gifts. Have you claimed the benefits of His royal family? They are yours and they are free! Please take them and be satisfied.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Intimately Known
Psalm 139:1-6
O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
You hem me in-behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
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 the house 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, protect and keep 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? God knows what's on your heart and mind. Ask Him to point you to the Truth and to give you courage to follow Him.
O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
You hem me in-behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
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 the house 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, protect and keep 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? God knows what's on your heart and mind. Ask Him to point you to the Truth and to give you courage to follow Him.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
For Goodness & Glory
2 Peter 1:3
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Good and Glorious God,
Thank You for ideally forming me in Your image, and personally calling and equipping me to live a godly life. As I spend time getting to know You, teach me Your rich and wonderful truths. By Your divine power, I will follow them to escape the decadent evil desires of the world and live humbly and honestly before You and mankind.
It is not enough to believe IN You. I must KNOW You intimately and BELIEVE You. I need to urgently begin applying Your principles to my heart and mind so that I'll be morally excellent. The more familiar I am with You, the easier it will be to stay alert and self-controlled in strenuous situations. I'll be pleasantly surprised by the persistent patience You give me to persevere through painful problems. Your radical love, will inspire me to be genuinely warm and welcoming to both desirable and despicable people. Exhibiting these fine qualities in my life, I'll be more productive and useful in Your royal service.
I promise to work hard to learn everything I can about You. Please continue to tenderly teach me until I unmistakably understand. I want my lifestyle to prove to the watching world that I am the child You called and equipped in glory, goodness and grace.
With great anticipation and heavenly hope, I look forward to the rich reception I'll receive when I walk through the pearly gates of Your everlasting Kingdom to live happily ever after with You because of Jesus. Amen.
Do you have a burning desire to know God? How much time will you spend with Him today? You can't imitate His glory and goodness, if you don't know Him intimately.
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Good and Glorious God,
Thank You for ideally forming me in Your image, and personally calling and equipping me to live a godly life. As I spend time getting to know You, teach me Your rich and wonderful truths. By Your divine power, I will follow them to escape the decadent evil desires of the world and live humbly and honestly before You and mankind.
It is not enough to believe IN You. I must KNOW You intimately and BELIEVE You. I need to urgently begin applying Your principles to my heart and mind so that I'll be morally excellent. The more familiar I am with You, the easier it will be to stay alert and self-controlled in strenuous situations. I'll be pleasantly surprised by the persistent patience You give me to persevere through painful problems. Your radical love, will inspire me to be genuinely warm and welcoming to both desirable and despicable people. Exhibiting these fine qualities in my life, I'll be more productive and useful in Your royal service.
I promise to work hard to learn everything I can about You. Please continue to tenderly teach me until I unmistakably understand. I want my lifestyle to prove to the watching world that I am the child You called and equipped in glory, goodness and grace.
With great anticipation and heavenly hope, I look forward to the rich reception I'll receive when I walk through the pearly gates of Your everlasting Kingdom to live happily ever after with You because of Jesus. Amen.
Do you have a burning desire to know God? How much time will you spend with Him today? You can't imitate His glory and goodness, if you don't know Him intimately.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Fearfully & Wonderfully Made
Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My Creator King,
Absolutely everything in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible has been deliberately created by You for Your delight.
Thank You for distinctively designing and developing me in the safe and solitary confines of my mother's womb. The pattern for my life is held in Your huge holy hands. You know me intimately and intricately; inside out and backwards. The characteristics that I see as flaws were intentionally built into me. You are inerrant and love me just the way I am. I am precious in Your sight. Created for Your personal pleasure, You think about me constantly. Such knowledge is too complex and beyond my comprehension. I adore You for mysteriously and miraculously making me.
O Searcher of Souls look deep within my heart and see for Yourself how I've interfered and interrupted the grand scheme You had for my life. Correct me and conform me according to Your divine dream. When people peer at me may they only see Your immense love, infinite mercy, and immeasurable goodness.
Marvelous Maker, help me to know You more. With Your assistance, I'll learn to appreciate and celebrate the unique individual You've made me to be for Your splendor and satisfaction both now and forever more. Amen.
God made you just the way you are for His splendor and satisfaction! Celebrate your uniqueness, including the flaws, and He will be glorified.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My Creator King,
Absolutely everything in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible has been deliberately created by You for Your delight.
Thank You for distinctively designing and developing me in the safe and solitary confines of my mother's womb. The pattern for my life is held in Your huge holy hands. You know me intimately and intricately; inside out and backwards. The characteristics that I see as flaws were intentionally built into me. You are inerrant and love me just the way I am. I am precious in Your sight. Created for Your personal pleasure, You think about me constantly. Such knowledge is too complex and beyond my comprehension. I adore You for mysteriously and miraculously making me.
O Searcher of Souls look deep within my heart and see for Yourself how I've interfered and interrupted the grand scheme You had for my life. Correct me and conform me according to Your divine dream. When people peer at me may they only see Your immense love, infinite mercy, and immeasurable goodness.
Marvelous Maker, help me to know You more. With Your assistance, I'll learn to appreciate and celebrate the unique individual You've made me to be for Your splendor and satisfaction both now and forever more. Amen.
God made you just the way you are for His splendor and satisfaction! Celebrate your uniqueness, including the flaws, and He will be glorified.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Knowing Jesus
Philippians 3:8
I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.
Dear Jesus,
You are the deepest desire of my heart. The power and possessions I once persistently pursued are worthless. The accolades and accomplishments I aggressively accumulated are insignificant. The pleasures and treasures of the world can't come close to knowing You, Jesus. Please show me all the clutter in my life that needs discarded to make room for more of You.
I want to know You more and more each day. My greatest aspiration is to be more like You in every way. I'm utterly inferior and terribly inadequate. My trinkets and trophies can't save me. They're meaningless to You. All You want is all of me. Knowing You personally and passionately is the only thing that matters. My relationship with You is the most important thing in my life.
Clear the clutter from the home of my heart to make room for Your all-consuming power. Using that mighty power, I'll overcome evil and temptation. In Your strength, I'll die to my past addictions and attractions. Sharing in Your suffering, I'll lay down my former lifestyle to follow You, Jesus.
Thank You for preserving History so that I can have heavenly hope. After the excruciating pain of death, joy comes in the "mourning" - beautiful life that never ends.
There is absolutely no greater thing than knowing You, Jesus. You mean the world to me. The most valuable treasure of all time is found in You - sweet salvation. With a spring in my step, a song in my heart, and a smile on my face I'll praise You for Your magnificent greatness in Jesus name. Amen.
If you were standing before the throne of God and He asked you, "Do you love me with all your heart, mind, soul and strength?" could you honestly answer, "Yes, Lord, You are my most important relationship." How will you prove it?
What are you willing to give up to know Christ better? Time each day for bible study and prayer? Approval from friends and family? Your personal plans, ambitions, and dreams? Knowing Christ is worth the sacrifice.
Today I will give up ___________________________________ in order to know you more, Jesus.
Go and obey. Jesus said,
"If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching." John 14:23
I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.
Dear Jesus,
You are the deepest desire of my heart. The power and possessions I once persistently pursued are worthless. The accolades and accomplishments I aggressively accumulated are insignificant. The pleasures and treasures of the world can't come close to knowing You, Jesus. Please show me all the clutter in my life that needs discarded to make room for more of You.
I want to know You more and more each day. My greatest aspiration is to be more like You in every way. I'm utterly inferior and terribly inadequate. My trinkets and trophies can't save me. They're meaningless to You. All You want is all of me. Knowing You personally and passionately is the only thing that matters. My relationship with You is the most important thing in my life.
Clear the clutter from the home of my heart to make room for Your all-consuming power. Using that mighty power, I'll overcome evil and temptation. In Your strength, I'll die to my past addictions and attractions. Sharing in Your suffering, I'll lay down my former lifestyle to follow You, Jesus.
Thank You for preserving History so that I can have heavenly hope. After the excruciating pain of death, joy comes in the "mourning" - beautiful life that never ends.
There is absolutely no greater thing than knowing You, Jesus. You mean the world to me. The most valuable treasure of all time is found in You - sweet salvation. With a spring in my step, a song in my heart, and a smile on my face I'll praise You for Your magnificent greatness in Jesus name. Amen.
If you were standing before the throne of God and He asked you, "Do you love me with all your heart, mind, soul and strength?" could you honestly answer, "Yes, Lord, You are my most important relationship." How will you prove it?
What are you willing to give up to know Christ better? Time each day for bible study and prayer? Approval from friends and family? Your personal plans, ambitions, and dreams? Knowing Christ is worth the sacrifice.
Today I will give up ___________________________________ in order to know you more, Jesus.
Go and obey. Jesus said,
"If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching." John 14:23
Friday, February 20, 2009
Acceptable Gifts for a King
Psalm 40: 6-8
Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.
Then I said, "Here I am, I have come-
it is written about me in the scroll.
I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart."
Holy Love,
Thank You for piercing my ears with the bold truth. Finally, I'm beginning to understand how to live a life of love. Offering You my time without heartfelt devotion is inadequate. Presenting You my talent without wholehearted dedication is insufficient. Halfheartedly giving You my treasure out of obligation is inappropriate. You don't want religious ceremonies and showy performances. All that You desire is my wholehearted devotion.
It will please You when, by faith, I humbly come to the foot of the cross admitting my faults and failures allowing the bond of Your blood to fix and fortify me. Realizing the high price you paid to correct my defects will give me a deeper desire to walk and work with You. I'll willingly give up family, friends and freedom in order to spend time getting to know You. The more I know You, the more readily I'll give up my possessions and plans in order to experience Your almighty power. Forfeiting my comfortable lifestyle and important position to endure pain and hardship will perfect my faith, make me shine purer and brighter, and draw others to You.
Please dear Lord, write Your commands on my heart so that I'll remember to obey them. I desire nothing more than to walk and work with You so that my gifts will be adequate, sufficient, and appropriate for the King of my heart. Amen.
God doesn't want your rituals and routines. He wants your whole heart devoted to Him. What are you willing to give up in order to please Him? Will you give up hobbies, television or work in order to spend time with Him? Will you give up shopping and sports in order give more of your money to Him? Would you be willing to give up your home and career in order to go where He sends You?
Dig deeper by reading Matthew 19:16-24
Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.
Then I said, "Here I am, I have come-
it is written about me in the scroll.
I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart."
Holy Love,
Thank You for piercing my ears with the bold truth. Finally, I'm beginning to understand how to live a life of love. Offering You my time without heartfelt devotion is inadequate. Presenting You my talent without wholehearted dedication is insufficient. Halfheartedly giving You my treasure out of obligation is inappropriate. You don't want religious ceremonies and showy performances. All that You desire is my wholehearted devotion.
It will please You when, by faith, I humbly come to the foot of the cross admitting my faults and failures allowing the bond of Your blood to fix and fortify me. Realizing the high price you paid to correct my defects will give me a deeper desire to walk and work with You. I'll willingly give up family, friends and freedom in order to spend time getting to know You. The more I know You, the more readily I'll give up my possessions and plans in order to experience Your almighty power. Forfeiting my comfortable lifestyle and important position to endure pain and hardship will perfect my faith, make me shine purer and brighter, and draw others to You.
Please dear Lord, write Your commands on my heart so that I'll remember to obey them. I desire nothing more than to walk and work with You so that my gifts will be adequate, sufficient, and appropriate for the King of my heart. Amen.
God doesn't want your rituals and routines. He wants your whole heart devoted to Him. What are you willing to give up in order to please Him? Will you give up hobbies, television or work in order to spend time with Him? Will you give up shopping and sports in order give more of your money to Him? Would you be willing to give up your home and career in order to go where He sends You?
Dig deeper by reading Matthew 19:16-24
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Set Your Heart on Him
Job 11:13-19
Yet if you devote your heart to him
and stretch out your hands to him,
if you put away the sin that is in your hand
and allow no evil to dwell in your tent,
then you will lift up your face without shame;
you will stand firm and without fear.
You will surely forget your trouble,
recalling it only as waters gone by.
Life will be brighter than noonday,
and darkness will become like morning.
You will be secure, because there is hope;
you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid,
and many will court your favor.
O Loving and Kind Father,
Have mercy on me! I know I've messed up, made wrong choices, and blatantly disobeyed You. You've seen it all and are fully aware of my unruly conduct. There's no hiding from Your omnipotent holy eyes, and no one to blame but myself. You know the truth. I cannot lie. Like a mischievous child caught in action, I'm humiliated and dreading discipline. I'd rather hide the evidence and pretend like nothing happened, but that will get me in bigger trouble. Instead, I need to reach out my hands and run into Your open arms, honestly admitting my mistakes with a broken heart. Then, You'll pity me and be generous in love.
Tenderly, You'll scrub away my guilt so that I'll have a snow-white heart filled with clean thoughts and right desires. Because of Your openhanded kindness, I'll be motivated to behave like the beloved child of the King.
With my eyes adoringly set on You, I'll face the world unashamed. Clean and confident, I'll stand up straight and tall, unafraid of ridicule or rejection. Only then will I forget my misery, leaving the past behind me. The brightness of Your Son will light up my life, chasing away any clouds of fear and doubt. In Your peaceful presence, I'll rest and relax because there is hope. Without a care in the world, I'll supernaturally live a life of love. My exuberant joy and inexplicable calmness will cause others to come to me for help in their time of need.
Please dear Father, search my heart and show me anything I'm doing wrong. Give me judgment day honesty to agree with You, and humility to obey. More than anything in the world, I want to be wholeheartedly devoted to You because of Jesus who died for me. Amen.
Study the above Scripture. What is God promising you if you devote your heart to Him, stretch out your hands and get rid of your sins?
For additional reading open your Bible to Psalm 139 and make it your heartfelt prayer. Issue God a search warrant to examine your heart, and agree with Him on any and all evidence He finds against you, no matter how hard. Reach out your hands like a contemptible child crying for pity. (Psalm 51:17) Today could be judgment day and on that day you will give an account to Him for everything (Matthew 12:36). Ask Him to give you judgment day honesty to admit your mistakes, so that you can begin enjoying His promises in Job 11.
Yet if you devote your heart to him
and stretch out your hands to him,
if you put away the sin that is in your hand
and allow no evil to dwell in your tent,
then you will lift up your face without shame;
you will stand firm and without fear.
You will surely forget your trouble,
recalling it only as waters gone by.
Life will be brighter than noonday,
and darkness will become like morning.
You will be secure, because there is hope;
you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid,
and many will court your favor.
O Loving and Kind Father,
Have mercy on me! I know I've messed up, made wrong choices, and blatantly disobeyed You. You've seen it all and are fully aware of my unruly conduct. There's no hiding from Your omnipotent holy eyes, and no one to blame but myself. You know the truth. I cannot lie. Like a mischievous child caught in action, I'm humiliated and dreading discipline. I'd rather hide the evidence and pretend like nothing happened, but that will get me in bigger trouble. Instead, I need to reach out my hands and run into Your open arms, honestly admitting my mistakes with a broken heart. Then, You'll pity me and be generous in love.
Tenderly, You'll scrub away my guilt so that I'll have a snow-white heart filled with clean thoughts and right desires. Because of Your openhanded kindness, I'll be motivated to behave like the beloved child of the King.
With my eyes adoringly set on You, I'll face the world unashamed. Clean and confident, I'll stand up straight and tall, unafraid of ridicule or rejection. Only then will I forget my misery, leaving the past behind me. The brightness of Your Son will light up my life, chasing away any clouds of fear and doubt. In Your peaceful presence, I'll rest and relax because there is hope. Without a care in the world, I'll supernaturally live a life of love. My exuberant joy and inexplicable calmness will cause others to come to me for help in their time of need.
Please dear Father, search my heart and show me anything I'm doing wrong. Give me judgment day honesty to agree with You, and humility to obey. More than anything in the world, I want to be wholeheartedly devoted to You because of Jesus who died for me. Amen.
Study the above Scripture. What is God promising you if you devote your heart to Him, stretch out your hands and get rid of your sins?
For additional reading open your Bible to Psalm 139 and make it your heartfelt prayer. Issue God a search warrant to examine your heart, and agree with Him on any and all evidence He finds against you, no matter how hard. Reach out your hands like a contemptible child crying for pity. (Psalm 51:17) Today could be judgment day and on that day you will give an account to Him for everything (Matthew 12:36). Ask Him to give you judgment day honesty to admit your mistakes, so that you can begin enjoying His promises in Job 11.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
His Heart is Set on You
Job 7:17
What is man, that You should exalt him,
That You should set Your heart on him. NKJV
My Sweet Heart,
Your Word is too wonderful for me. I could and should live in complete condemnation but You did the unthinkable when You set Your tender heart on mine determined to show me the depth of Your compassion. Miraculously, You gave me a new life full of love and power, making me a witness to Your abundant grace. My ugliness is forever gone and I'm altogether lovely to You. Who am I to deserve such royal treatment?
It's sheer joy to freely rise up each morning and move on despite life's challenges. Because of Your great love, I can fearlessly face afflictions realizing that You, the High and Lofty One whose name is Holy, agonized every minute of Your ministry and died suffering. Why should I, the lowly tainted one whose name is sinner, deserve better than You? Difficulties prove that Your caring heart is set on mine. Full of Your tender loving kindness I'll live a life of love even when problems and pressures plague me. My lips will exalt You, while my soul experiences absolute peace and rest because You've graciously chosen to lay Your heart on mine in the name of Jesus. Hallelujah! Amen.
How are you handling your troubles? Do you think you deserve better than Jesus? Consider Him. He was holy, perfect, and pure. He willingly left His home in heaven to come to earth where He was immensely tormented and died an excruciating death for you. He did it all without complaining in order to exalt you to a privileged position in His royal family. He intentionally set His heart on you! His eyes adore you! Praise Him and thank Him for your difficulties because they prove that He cares for you enormously.
What is man, that You should exalt him,
That You should set Your heart on him. NKJV
My Sweet Heart,
Your Word is too wonderful for me. I could and should live in complete condemnation but You did the unthinkable when You set Your tender heart on mine determined to show me the depth of Your compassion. Miraculously, You gave me a new life full of love and power, making me a witness to Your abundant grace. My ugliness is forever gone and I'm altogether lovely to You. Who am I to deserve such royal treatment?
It's sheer joy to freely rise up each morning and move on despite life's challenges. Because of Your great love, I can fearlessly face afflictions realizing that You, the High and Lofty One whose name is Holy, agonized every minute of Your ministry and died suffering. Why should I, the lowly tainted one whose name is sinner, deserve better than You? Difficulties prove that Your caring heart is set on mine. Full of Your tender loving kindness I'll live a life of love even when problems and pressures plague me. My lips will exalt You, while my soul experiences absolute peace and rest because You've graciously chosen to lay Your heart on mine in the name of Jesus. Hallelujah! Amen.
How are you handling your troubles? Do you think you deserve better than Jesus? Consider Him. He was holy, perfect, and pure. He willingly left His home in heaven to come to earth where He was immensely tormented and died an excruciating death for you. He did it all without complaining in order to exalt you to a privileged position in His royal family. He intentionally set His heart on you! His eyes adore you! Praise Him and thank Him for your difficulties because they prove that He cares for you enormously.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
A Devoted Heart
1 Chronicles 22:19
Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the LORD your God. Begin to build the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the sacred articles belonging to God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD.
Father in Heaven,
Thank You for Your inexhaustible love and enduring faithfulness. Because You love me beyond the limits of my imagination, I'm compelled to live a life of love, personally and passionately devoted to You.
Please help me develop a vibrant, intimate relationship with You through continual Bible study and persistent prayer. Inspire me to build a sacred place in my heart to hide Your valuable commands and priceless promises. In this sanctuary, store the treasures of Your heart so that I'll instinctively know what's most important to You.
Full of Your riches, I'll worship You with adoring faith by pouring out my life completely for You. With one heart, we'll dance together harmoniously. Motivated by overpowering love, I'll follow Your lead, deliberately laying down my life for others. The closer I get to You, the easier it will be to identify the people and purposes that matter to You. Living in pure, uninterrupted devotion to You, my spontaneous actions and positive attitudes will be a pleasant love offering attracting others to Your divine goodness.
Please search the temple of my heart and show me anything that I love more than You. By Your power and grace, I'll deliberately remove those obstacles from my life in order to be entirely dedicated to You. More than anything else in the world, I desire to worship You ceaselessly in the temple of my heart where Your precious treasure abounds because of my unwavering commitment to Jesus, Your Son. Amen.
A lofty life-long goal is to devote your heart and soul to seeking the Lord. As you do, He will hide His treasure in your heart, and you'll naturally live a life of love, attracting others to His divine goodness.
Because of His inexhaustible love and enduring faithfulness are you willing to pour out your life for Him? Identify those things in your life that prevent you from just being with Him. Then, determine to give Him the first fruit of Your time each day for Bible study and prayer.
What does Jesus value? Read Matthew 25:34-40 Click here to read it on-line
Dig deeper with Oswald Chambers, "It is the Lord" from My Utmost for His Highest. Click here to read it on-line
Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the LORD your God. Begin to build the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the sacred articles belonging to God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD.
Father in Heaven,
Thank You for Your inexhaustible love and enduring faithfulness. Because You love me beyond the limits of my imagination, I'm compelled to live a life of love, personally and passionately devoted to You.
Please help me develop a vibrant, intimate relationship with You through continual Bible study and persistent prayer. Inspire me to build a sacred place in my heart to hide Your valuable commands and priceless promises. In this sanctuary, store the treasures of Your heart so that I'll instinctively know what's most important to You.
Full of Your riches, I'll worship You with adoring faith by pouring out my life completely for You. With one heart, we'll dance together harmoniously. Motivated by overpowering love, I'll follow Your lead, deliberately laying down my life for others. The closer I get to You, the easier it will be to identify the people and purposes that matter to You. Living in pure, uninterrupted devotion to You, my spontaneous actions and positive attitudes will be a pleasant love offering attracting others to Your divine goodness.
Please search the temple of my heart and show me anything that I love more than You. By Your power and grace, I'll deliberately remove those obstacles from my life in order to be entirely dedicated to You. More than anything else in the world, I desire to worship You ceaselessly in the temple of my heart where Your precious treasure abounds because of my unwavering commitment to Jesus, Your Son. Amen.
A lofty life-long goal is to devote your heart and soul to seeking the Lord. As you do, He will hide His treasure in your heart, and you'll naturally live a life of love, attracting others to His divine goodness.
Because of His inexhaustible love and enduring faithfulness are you willing to pour out your life for Him? Identify those things in your life that prevent you from just being with Him. Then, determine to give Him the first fruit of Your time each day for Bible study and prayer.
What does Jesus value? Read Matthew 25:34-40 Click here to read it on-line
Dig deeper with Oswald Chambers, "It is the Lord" from My Utmost for His Highest. Click here to read it on-line
Monday, February 16, 2009
Taste and See
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Psalm 34:8
Psalm 34:8
Sweet Jesus,
O how I love the sweetness of Your Words. They are sweeter to my taste than the finest chocolate. Your delicious concoction of promises and commands is irresistible. They satisfy my most intense craving, evoking pleasure in the deepest part of my soul.
Hidden in my Bible are surprising nuggets of truth. As I taste each one, I discover Your mouthwatering goodness that melts my heart. Your opulent promises are my source of hope. Sinking my teeth into Your sumptuous loving kindness comforts my troubled spirit. Indulging, in Your luxurious mercies, refreshes my distressed mind. Treating myself to Your bittersweet commands makes my salvation thick, rich and smooth.
Your Words, O Lord, are an attractive treat! They are my heart's delight and joy! I have tasted and experienced Your goodness. With all my heart I want to savor the magnificent flavor every day of my life, and share the sweetness with others to glorify and bless Your sweet name. Amen.
Your Bible is a delectable box of chocolates waiting to be devoured. Open it, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Valentine from God
I have loved you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 3:31
My Dearly Beloved Child,
You are precious and honored in My sight.
I created you for My glory and I love you.
Your heart belongs to me.
In love, I chose and adopted you.
My loving kindness never ends.
I don't easily get angry and
I won't nag or scold you.
My arms are wide open; come to me.
In love, I'll accept and redeem you.
I will love your forever.
I will not ever abandon you.
No matter what you've done in the past,
I've completely forgotten about it.
In love, I've forgive you.
I will strengthen you and increase your power.
You will soar like an eagle through the storms.
You will run and not grow weary.
You will walk and not be faint.
In love, I'll lead and guide you.
I will be with you forever.
There's no need to be afraid or distraught.
I will always help you.
I will hold on to you tightly.
In love, I'll bless you and make you happy again.
My beloved, you are my eternal valentine!
Love, Your Father in Heaven
You are special and you are loved. Do you believe God? He wants you to be His valentine, not just today, but always and forever.
Jeremiah 3:31
My Dearly Beloved Child,
You are precious and honored in My sight.
I created you for My glory and I love you.
Your heart belongs to me.
In love, I chose and adopted you.
My loving kindness never ends.
I don't easily get angry and
I won't nag or scold you.
My arms are wide open; come to me.
In love, I'll accept and redeem you.
I will love your forever.
I will not ever abandon you.
No matter what you've done in the past,
I've completely forgotten about it.
In love, I've forgive you.
I will strengthen you and increase your power.
You will soar like an eagle through the storms.
You will run and not grow weary.
You will walk and not be faint.
In love, I'll lead and guide you.
I will be with you forever.
There's no need to be afraid or distraught.
I will always help you.
I will hold on to you tightly.
In love, I'll bless you and make you happy again.
My beloved, you are my eternal valentine!
Love, Your Father in Heaven
You are special and you are loved. Do you believe God? He wants you to be His valentine, not just today, but always and forever.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Chosen to Know and Believe
Isaiah 43:10
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD,
"and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me,
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me."
Immortal, Invincible, Incorruptible Almighty King,
Yours is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor. Everything in heaven and earth belongs to You. You are exalted as head over all. You answer to no one. When You rise from Your throne, Your enemies scatter. The keys to Heaven and Hell are in Your holy hands. There never was or ever will be anyone like You. You are perfect, pure and pristine.
Yet, in love, You chose to reveal Yourself to a rebel like me. And, in love, You decided to rescue, revive, and restore me. No one can ever reverse the renovation You've done to my heart, mind and soul. I am Your witness. You are God and there is no other! Apart from You there is no Savior. Because of what I have seen with my own two eyes, I am required to tell others Who You are.
Out of all the billions of people on the face of the earth, it is an honor to be close to You. The more intimately I know You, the more assuredly I believe and understand You. Your praise is always on my lips.
O Lord, how can I ever thank You for selecting me to be Your witness in the world? I long to know You more dearly, believe You wholeheartedly, and understand how to live a life of love that glorifies Your name. Amen.
You are God's witness in the world. A witness is one who has a story to tell. As His servant it is your duty to tell others about God's revolutionizing love. He has uniquely chosen You in love to know, believe, and understand Him. What are you doing to foster your relationship with Him? You can only tell what you know.
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD,
"and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me,
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me."
Immortal, Invincible, Incorruptible Almighty King,
Yours is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor. Everything in heaven and earth belongs to You. You are exalted as head over all. You answer to no one. When You rise from Your throne, Your enemies scatter. The keys to Heaven and Hell are in Your holy hands. There never was or ever will be anyone like You. You are perfect, pure and pristine.
Yet, in love, You chose to reveal Yourself to a rebel like me. And, in love, You decided to rescue, revive, and restore me. No one can ever reverse the renovation You've done to my heart, mind and soul. I am Your witness. You are God and there is no other! Apart from You there is no Savior. Because of what I have seen with my own two eyes, I am required to tell others Who You are.
Out of all the billions of people on the face of the earth, it is an honor to be close to You. The more intimately I know You, the more assuredly I believe and understand You. Your praise is always on my lips.
O Lord, how can I ever thank You for selecting me to be Your witness in the world? I long to know You more dearly, believe You wholeheartedly, and understand how to live a life of love that glorifies Your name. Amen.
You are God's witness in the world. A witness is one who has a story to tell. As His servant it is your duty to tell others about God's revolutionizing love. He has uniquely chosen You in love to know, believe, and understand Him. What are you doing to foster your relationship with Him? You can only tell what you know.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
A Heart Shaped for Love
Romans 5:5
For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
My Dear Father,
You make my heart throb with inexpressible joy! Because Your Son, Jesus, unashamedly brought me to You, I am full of the sweet essence of Your Spirit. Absorbed in Your irresistible affection, I can live peacefully in Your presence free from criticism, judgment and condemnation.
In Your grip of grace, I'll courageously accept problems and difficulties believing they're for my good. Engrossed in Your softness, I'll expect You to gently polish me with patience to tolerate unfriendly people and unexpected circumstances. Because You care so deeply for me, I know You'll painstakingly work on me until I shine with Your glory. The process will likely be agonizing, but it will be worth it as I become more and more like You every day.
My heart's one desire is to be so personally close to You, that Your sweetness instinctively pours out of me like a fragrant perfume. Consumed with Your overwhelming love, no matter how busy, exhausted or frustrated I am I'll keep smiling and spontaneously respond with patience and kindness. No matter how sick, lousy or hurt I feel, immersed in You, I'll have a heart shaped for love that continually praises Your glorious name. Amen.
How will you develop a heart shaped for love?
For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
My Dear Father,
You make my heart throb with inexpressible joy! Because Your Son, Jesus, unashamedly brought me to You, I am full of the sweet essence of Your Spirit. Absorbed in Your irresistible affection, I can live peacefully in Your presence free from criticism, judgment and condemnation.
In Your grip of grace, I'll courageously accept problems and difficulties believing they're for my good. Engrossed in Your softness, I'll expect You to gently polish me with patience to tolerate unfriendly people and unexpected circumstances. Because You care so deeply for me, I know You'll painstakingly work on me until I shine with Your glory. The process will likely be agonizing, but it will be worth it as I become more and more like You every day.
My heart's one desire is to be so personally close to You, that Your sweetness instinctively pours out of me like a fragrant perfume. Consumed with Your overwhelming love, no matter how busy, exhausted or frustrated I am I'll keep smiling and spontaneously respond with patience and kindness. No matter how sick, lousy or hurt I feel, immersed in You, I'll have a heart shaped for love that continually praises Your glorious name. Amen.
How will you develop a heart shaped for love?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Forgiven in Love
Ephesians 1:7
In him we have the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace.
Psalm 32:1-2
Blessed are they
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
Blessed is the man
whose sin the Lord will never count against him.
Blessed Redeemer,
You are not only the Lover of My Soul. You are the Most High and Holy Judge. Your Words sweep me off my feet! Thank You for accepting my pitiful plea and declaring me "not guilty." I'm blessed beyond words! My only response is to fall on my knees in humble adoration.
Overwhelming joy pours from my heart because in love You served my death sentence. Mercifully, You've forgiven and forgotten my rebellious, deliberate, stubborn misdeeds. I'm eternally thankful that my daily unintentional, accidental mistakes will never be counted against me. Blessed assurance! Your rich, abundant grace has brought me into an everlasting intimate relationship with You! Your love enthralls me!
Breathe on me, Holy Spirit. Subdue my stubborn will. Tame my temptations. Control my conduct. Heal my hurts. Right my wrongs. And, teach me to live a life of love so that I will forgive others as You've forgiven me. Put a smile on my face today that reflects the joy in my heart because my defiant disobedience has been redeemed by One incredible deal for the praise of Your glorious name. Amen.
If you have nothing else to smile about today, be happy that in Love your sins are forgiven and forgotten forever. That's worth celebrating! Who do you need to forgive because of Love?
Jesus, said, "I cancelled that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?"
Read the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant. Matthew 18:21-35
Read it on-line
In him we have the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace.
Psalm 32:1-2
Blessed are they
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
Blessed is the man
whose sin the Lord will never count against him.
Blessed Redeemer,
You are not only the Lover of My Soul. You are the Most High and Holy Judge. Your Words sweep me off my feet! Thank You for accepting my pitiful plea and declaring me "not guilty." I'm blessed beyond words! My only response is to fall on my knees in humble adoration.
Overwhelming joy pours from my heart because in love You served my death sentence. Mercifully, You've forgiven and forgotten my rebellious, deliberate, stubborn misdeeds. I'm eternally thankful that my daily unintentional, accidental mistakes will never be counted against me. Blessed assurance! Your rich, abundant grace has brought me into an everlasting intimate relationship with You! Your love enthralls me!
Breathe on me, Holy Spirit. Subdue my stubborn will. Tame my temptations. Control my conduct. Heal my hurts. Right my wrongs. And, teach me to live a life of love so that I will forgive others as You've forgiven me. Put a smile on my face today that reflects the joy in my heart because my defiant disobedience has been redeemed by One incredible deal for the praise of Your glorious name. Amen.
If you have nothing else to smile about today, be happy that in Love your sins are forgiven and forgotten forever. That's worth celebrating! Who do you need to forgive because of Love?
Jesus, said, "I cancelled that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?"
Read the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant. Matthew 18:21-35
Read it on-line
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Redeemed in Love
Ephesians 1:7
In him we have redemption through his blood.
Jesus, My Redeemer,
Your love is absolutely amazing! That You would leave your majestic home in heaven to come to this wretched place on earth to save hateful people is unfathomable. I might die for someone really special, like my child, but I'd never die for someone who despises me. Yet, that's exactly what You did for me. While I was Your vilest offender, You intentionally died for me.
Laying down Your life, You bridged the grand canyon that separated us. Your broken body made the Way for me to safely cross over into Your glorious everlasting kingdom. I no longer have to fear falling to my death and eternal punishment because You took my hand, called me "friend" and graciously brought me into Your Father's presence. How can I ever thank You?!
I can't begin to comprehend why You'd choose to rescue a person like me. Your thoughts are greater than my thoughts and Your ways are wider than my ways. It's a mystery I'll never understand, but like a naïve child, I'll believe that You blessed, chose, adopted, accepted and redeemed me in Love.
Out of deep, heartfelt gratitude, I'll rejoice in this wonderful relationship I have with You. Because You've redeemed me in Love, I'll live a life of love by building bridges for others to come into Your presence. I'll trust You to be my best, most devoted, and loyal Friend to the very end. All glory to You for saving me from the eternal hole of hell and sending me to Your magnificent, majestic, most high kingdom where I will live happily ever after because of Jesus. Amen.
Thank God for His redeeming love! 1 Peter 1:22 says, "Love one another deeply and from the heart." How will you love others with the redeeming love of God - even those who hate you?
Dig deeper by reading Romans 5:6-11 Read it on-line
In him we have redemption through his blood.
Jesus, My Redeemer,
Your love is absolutely amazing! That You would leave your majestic home in heaven to come to this wretched place on earth to save hateful people is unfathomable. I might die for someone really special, like my child, but I'd never die for someone who despises me. Yet, that's exactly what You did for me. While I was Your vilest offender, You intentionally died for me.
Laying down Your life, You bridged the grand canyon that separated us. Your broken body made the Way for me to safely cross over into Your glorious everlasting kingdom. I no longer have to fear falling to my death and eternal punishment because You took my hand, called me "friend" and graciously brought me into Your Father's presence. How can I ever thank You?!
I can't begin to comprehend why You'd choose to rescue a person like me. Your thoughts are greater than my thoughts and Your ways are wider than my ways. It's a mystery I'll never understand, but like a naïve child, I'll believe that You blessed, chose, adopted, accepted and redeemed me in Love.
Out of deep, heartfelt gratitude, I'll rejoice in this wonderful relationship I have with You. Because You've redeemed me in Love, I'll live a life of love by building bridges for others to come into Your presence. I'll trust You to be my best, most devoted, and loyal Friend to the very end. All glory to You for saving me from the eternal hole of hell and sending me to Your magnificent, majestic, most high kingdom where I will live happily ever after because of Jesus. Amen.
Thank God for His redeeming love! 1 Peter 1:22 says, "Love one another deeply and from the heart." How will you love others with the redeeming love of God - even those who hate you?
Dig deeper by reading Romans 5:6-11 Read it on-line
Monday, February 09, 2009
Accepted in Love
Ephesians 1:6
To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. NKJV
O Gracious Father!
Your Words are a love sonnet to my soul! I just want to sit in the warmth of Your presence, listening to them until they penetrate the deepest part of me. Why in the world would You - Holy and Perfect Father - choose, adopt and accept a scruffy child like me?
Because I can't grasp the depth of Your love, I try to earn Your acceptance by doing good things, not realizing that I'll never measure up to Your holy standard. Only when I work in relation to Your Son are the things I do acceptable and pleasing to You.
Shamefully, I try to hide my faults from You. Unfortunately, I can't conceal anything from Your holy gaze. If I'd only humble myself and admit what I've done wrong, You'd lovingly cover up my mistakes, accepting my inadequacies.
As though Your acceptance is non-existent, I often run off looking for approval of important people. Deceived, demoralized, and disappointed, I hesitate to return to You. Too proud to admit my poor judgment, I fear You'll reject me. In reality, You're eagerly waiting for me to come back.
Please give me a fuller understanding of Your glorious grace so that I'll quit seeking approval and begin seeking Your face. When I stop running away from You and start running into Your open arms, I'll realize that I'm totally accepted in Love. In Your strong grip of grace, I'll show my heartfelt gratitude by living a life of love when I accept others despite their idiosyncrasies for the praise Your Beloved Name. Amen.
Are you trying to earn God's acceptance by works? Are you avoiding Him because of something You've done? Are you afraid He'll reject you, if you go back to Him?
Listen to His promise. He has accepted you in Love. Stop seeking His approval; you're already approved by Him.
If you've done something awful, stop avoiding Him and go tell Him about it. His Word says if we confess our sins, He's faithful and just and will forgive our sins. (1 John 1:9)
If you've wandered off looking for approval from man, go back to Him, He's waiting for you. (Luke 15:11-32)
His Word says, "Nothing can separate you from His love." (Romans 8:35-39)
For another look at the Father's glorious gift of acceptance read Luke 15:11-32.
To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. NKJV
O Gracious Father!
Your Words are a love sonnet to my soul! I just want to sit in the warmth of Your presence, listening to them until they penetrate the deepest part of me. Why in the world would You - Holy and Perfect Father - choose, adopt and accept a scruffy child like me?
Because I can't grasp the depth of Your love, I try to earn Your acceptance by doing good things, not realizing that I'll never measure up to Your holy standard. Only when I work in relation to Your Son are the things I do acceptable and pleasing to You.
Shamefully, I try to hide my faults from You. Unfortunately, I can't conceal anything from Your holy gaze. If I'd only humble myself and admit what I've done wrong, You'd lovingly cover up my mistakes, accepting my inadequacies.
As though Your acceptance is non-existent, I often run off looking for approval of important people. Deceived, demoralized, and disappointed, I hesitate to return to You. Too proud to admit my poor judgment, I fear You'll reject me. In reality, You're eagerly waiting for me to come back.
Please give me a fuller understanding of Your glorious grace so that I'll quit seeking approval and begin seeking Your face. When I stop running away from You and start running into Your open arms, I'll realize that I'm totally accepted in Love. In Your strong grip of grace, I'll show my heartfelt gratitude by living a life of love when I accept others despite their idiosyncrasies for the praise Your Beloved Name. Amen.
Are you trying to earn God's acceptance by works? Are you avoiding Him because of something You've done? Are you afraid He'll reject you, if you go back to Him?
Listen to His promise. He has accepted you in Love. Stop seeking His approval; you're already approved by Him.
If you've done something awful, stop avoiding Him and go tell Him about it. His Word says if we confess our sins, He's faithful and just and will forgive our sins. (1 John 1:9)
If you've wandered off looking for approval from man, go back to Him, He's waiting for you. (Luke 15:11-32)
His Word says, "Nothing can separate you from His love." (Romans 8:35-39)
For another look at the Father's glorious gift of acceptance read Luke 15:11-32.
Accepted in Love
Ephesians 1:6
To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. NKJV
O Gracious Father!
Your Words are a love sonnet to my soul! I just want to sit in the warmth of Your presence, listening to them until they penetrate the deepest part of me. Why in the world would You - Holy and Perfect Father - choose, adopt and accept a scruffy child like me?
Because I can't grasp the depth of Your love, I try to earn Your acceptance by doing good things, not realizing that I'll never measure up to Your holy standard. Only when I work in relation to Your Son are the things I do acceptable and pleasing to You.
Shamefully, I try to hide my faults from You. Unfortunately, I can't conceal anything from Your holy gaze. If I'd only humble myself and admit what I've done wrong, You'd lovingly cover up my mistakes, accepting my inadequacies.
As though Your acceptance is non-existent, I often run off looking for approval of important people. Deceived, demoralized, and disappointed, I hesitate to return to You. Too proud to admit my poor judgment, I fear You'll reject me. In reality, You're eagerly waiting for me to come back.
Please give me a fuller understanding of Your glorious grace so that I'll quit seeking approval and begin seeking Your face. When I stop running away from You and start running into Your open arms, I'll realize that I'm totally accepted in Love. In Your strong grip of grace, I'll show my heartfelt gratitude by living a life of love when I accept others despite their idiosyncrasies for the praise Your Beloved Name. Amen.
Are you trying to earn God's acceptance by works? Are you avoiding Him because of something You've done? Are you afraid He'll reject you, if you go back to Him?
Listen to His promise. He has accepted you in Love. Stop seeking His approval; you're already approved by Him.
If you've done something awful, stop avoiding Him and go tell Him about it. His Word says if we confess our sins, He's faithful and just and will forgive our sins. (1 John 1:9)
If you've wandered off looking for approval from man, go back to Him, He's waiting for you. (Luke 15:11-32)
His Word says, "Nothing can separate you from His love." (Romans 8:35-39)
For another look at the Father's glorious gift of acceptance read Luke 15:11-32.
To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. NKJV
O Gracious Father!
Your Words are a love sonnet to my soul! I just want to sit in the warmth of Your presence, listening to them until they penetrate the deepest part of me. Why in the world would You - Holy and Perfect Father - choose, adopt and accept a scruffy child like me?
Because I can't grasp the depth of Your love, I try to earn Your acceptance by doing good things, not realizing that I'll never measure up to Your holy standard. Only when I work in relation to Your Son are the things I do acceptable and pleasing to You.
Shamefully, I try to hide my faults from You. Unfortunately, I can't conceal anything from Your holy gaze. If I'd only humble myself and admit what I've done wrong, You'd lovingly cover up my mistakes, accepting my inadequacies.
As though Your acceptance is non-existent, I often run off looking for approval of important people. Deceived, demoralized, and disappointed, I hesitate to return to You. Too proud to admit my poor judgment, I fear You'll reject me. In reality, You're eagerly waiting for me to come back.
Please give me a fuller understanding of Your glorious grace so that I'll quit seeking approval and begin seeking Your face. When I stop running away from You and start running into Your open arms, I'll realize that I'm totally accepted in Love. In Your strong grip of grace, I'll show my heartfelt gratitude by living a life of love when I accept others despite their idiosyncrasies for the praise Your Beloved Name. Amen.
Are you trying to earn God's acceptance by works? Are you avoiding Him because of something You've done? Are you afraid He'll reject you, if you go back to Him?
Listen to His promise. He has accepted you in Love. Stop seeking His approval; you're already approved by Him.
If you've done something awful, stop avoiding Him and go tell Him about it. His Word says if we confess our sins, He's faithful and just and will forgive our sins. (1 John 1:9)
If you've wandered off looking for approval from man, go back to Him, He's waiting for you. (Luke 15:11-32)
His Word says, "Nothing can separate you from His love." (Romans 8:35-39)
For another look at the Father's glorious gift of acceptance read Luke 15:11-32.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Adopted in Love
Ephesians 1:5-6
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. NLT
Romans 8:17
And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. NLT
Abba, Father,
I'm thankful and joyful that You decided to adopt me into Your royal family, reserving a room for me in Your mansion in the sky. You will be my Father and I will be Your dearly loved child forever because of my relationship with Your Son. O how I love to tell of the marvelous grace You've poured out on me. Your loving kindness makes me feel like dancing.
Upon arriving in the hallowed halls of Your heaven, You'll wipe every tear from my eye. You'll crown me with compassion and clothe me with fine linen, white and clean purchased with the blood of Jesus. I'll be made new. My heart leaps for joy at the very thought of the rich inheritance for those whom You adopted in love.
Until I get there, I'll be seized by shame, suffering and sorrow. In the midst of misery, I'll live a life of love by rejoicing and giving thanks to You for bringing me into Your family. Singing sweet songs in my sadness, and powerfully pleading for patience during pain, I'll smile when I feel like crying. When others around me hear my heavenly hope they'll join in the celebration when they choose to believe the blessed and beautiful words from my lips.
Thank You, Father for my identity and inheritance. They are my joy, delight and strength. No one can ever take this treasured heritage from me. Please put a smile on my face today that reflects the love and joy in my heart because of who I am in Jesus! Amen.
Knowing that God adopted you in love, what should your response be in the midst of suffering? How will you live a life of love in order to share in Christ's glory?
Read how Paul & Silas lived out their love in prison in Acts 16:16-40. What do can you learn from their example?
Read Acts 16:16-40 On-line
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. NLT
Romans 8:17
And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. NLT
Abba, Father,
I'm thankful and joyful that You decided to adopt me into Your royal family, reserving a room for me in Your mansion in the sky. You will be my Father and I will be Your dearly loved child forever because of my relationship with Your Son. O how I love to tell of the marvelous grace You've poured out on me. Your loving kindness makes me feel like dancing.
Upon arriving in the hallowed halls of Your heaven, You'll wipe every tear from my eye. You'll crown me with compassion and clothe me with fine linen, white and clean purchased with the blood of Jesus. I'll be made new. My heart leaps for joy at the very thought of the rich inheritance for those whom You adopted in love.
Until I get there, I'll be seized by shame, suffering and sorrow. In the midst of misery, I'll live a life of love by rejoicing and giving thanks to You for bringing me into Your family. Singing sweet songs in my sadness, and powerfully pleading for patience during pain, I'll smile when I feel like crying. When others around me hear my heavenly hope they'll join in the celebration when they choose to believe the blessed and beautiful words from my lips.
Thank You, Father for my identity and inheritance. They are my joy, delight and strength. No one can ever take this treasured heritage from me. Please put a smile on my face today that reflects the love and joy in my heart because of who I am in Jesus! Amen.
Knowing that God adopted you in love, what should your response be in the midst of suffering? How will you live a life of love in order to share in Christ's glory?
Read how Paul & Silas lived out their love in prison in Acts 16:16-40. What do can you learn from their example?
Read Acts 16:16-40 On-line
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Chosen in Love
Deuteronomy 7:6
You are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.
My Knight in Shining Armor,
Hearing Your Holy Word thrills my heart! It stirs my soul to think that, in love; You chose me out of all the people on the face of the earth to be royal, holy, and redeemed. Who am I to deserve this kind of love?
Even though I was hiding in the dark behind a thick wall of shame, You found me, and gave Your life to rescue me. Bringing me into the wonderful light of Your love, You traded my ripped rags for a royal robe of righteousness. Miraculously Your Words changed my rough callused heart to a soft, holy one. I'm utterly ecstatic that an unbecoming person like me is no longer abandoned, but belongs to You, the High King of Heaven! Not only that, I'm Your treasured possession! Valuable! Priceless! Precious! O how thankful I am that You rescued me from the dark dungeon, brought me into the wonderful light, and called me to be Yours!
I can't keep quiet about my miracle makeover! As a member of Your royal family, I'm obligated to live a life of love by publicly telling others the difference You've made in my life. Now to You who chose me, out of all the people on the face of the earth, to be Your treasured possession be the glory, honor and praise forever and ever. Amen.
God chose you in love to be His treasured possession, not because you deserve it, but because of His loving kindness. You are valuable, priceless, and precious to Him.
In the light of His love, will you fully surrender your life to be the royal priest He's called you to be? A royal priest devoted to his life to serving God and speaking out for Him.
You are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.
My Knight in Shining Armor,
Hearing Your Holy Word thrills my heart! It stirs my soul to think that, in love; You chose me out of all the people on the face of the earth to be royal, holy, and redeemed. Who am I to deserve this kind of love?
Even though I was hiding in the dark behind a thick wall of shame, You found me, and gave Your life to rescue me. Bringing me into the wonderful light of Your love, You traded my ripped rags for a royal robe of righteousness. Miraculously Your Words changed my rough callused heart to a soft, holy one. I'm utterly ecstatic that an unbecoming person like me is no longer abandoned, but belongs to You, the High King of Heaven! Not only that, I'm Your treasured possession! Valuable! Priceless! Precious! O how thankful I am that You rescued me from the dark dungeon, brought me into the wonderful light, and called me to be Yours!
I can't keep quiet about my miracle makeover! As a member of Your royal family, I'm obligated to live a life of love by publicly telling others the difference You've made in my life. Now to You who chose me, out of all the people on the face of the earth, to be Your treasured possession be the glory, honor and praise forever and ever. Amen.
God chose you in love to be His treasured possession, not because you deserve it, but because of His loving kindness. You are valuable, priceless, and precious to Him.
In the light of His love, will you fully surrender your life to be the royal priest He's called you to be? A royal priest devoted to his life to serving God and speaking out for Him.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Blessed in Love
Deuteronomy 7:13
He will love you and bless you.
Ephesians 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
O God My Father,
What a blessing You are! Because of my friendship with Your dear Son, You've lovingly lavished me with all the riches of heaven. Pouring out Your glorious grace on me, You exchanged the ashes of my broken heart for a crown of beauty turning my sad days to glad days. My heart leaps for joy because of Your great love!
Pitying me, You looked beyond my imperfections. It delighted You to trade my tattered clothes of despair for a garment of praise. Handing me the Book of Love, a Holy Bible, You gave me wisdom and knowledge to understand the mysteries of Your Word. In the blessing of Your love, humiliation turned to honor enabling me to proudly display Your majestic splendor.
A changed person, full of glory and grace, I'll begin rebuilding ruined relationships. From the wreckage and rubble, I'll build lasting friendships that bridge others to Your heavenly kingdom. Because You've doubly blessed me with a beautiful new beginning, I'll live a life of love. Blessing others, I'll celebrate the everlasting legacy available to me because my relationship with Your own dear Son. Amen.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Read Ephesians 1:3-14. Make a list of all the spiritual blessings God gives you because of your friendship with His Son.
Read Ephesians 1:3-14 On-line
Dig deeper by reading Isaiah 61. Read Isaiah 61 On-line
He will love you and bless you.
Ephesians 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
O God My Father,
What a blessing You are! Because of my friendship with Your dear Son, You've lovingly lavished me with all the riches of heaven. Pouring out Your glorious grace on me, You exchanged the ashes of my broken heart for a crown of beauty turning my sad days to glad days. My heart leaps for joy because of Your great love!
Pitying me, You looked beyond my imperfections. It delighted You to trade my tattered clothes of despair for a garment of praise. Handing me the Book of Love, a Holy Bible, You gave me wisdom and knowledge to understand the mysteries of Your Word. In the blessing of Your love, humiliation turned to honor enabling me to proudly display Your majestic splendor.
A changed person, full of glory and grace, I'll begin rebuilding ruined relationships. From the wreckage and rubble, I'll build lasting friendships that bridge others to Your heavenly kingdom. Because You've doubly blessed me with a beautiful new beginning, I'll live a life of love. Blessing others, I'll celebrate the everlasting legacy available to me because my relationship with Your own dear Son. Amen.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Read Ephesians 1:3-14. Make a list of all the spiritual blessings God gives you because of your friendship with His Son.
Read Ephesians 1:3-14 On-line
Dig deeper by reading Isaiah 61. Read Isaiah 61 On-line
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Love Enough to Give
2 Corinthians 9:7
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
O God My Father,
Majesty, honor and power belong to You. Everything in heaven and on earth is Yours. Riches and glory come from You. High and lifted up, You rule and reign over everything. Your mighty hands are strong enough to build a magnificent Church full of faithful followers.
Who are we that we should be able to give You anything? Everything we have is Yours. Help us to use the rich resources You've so generously given us to build Your church into a beautiful temple where people can divinely encounter You.
One stone does not make an ornate, palatial structure, or even a single wall. We're all living stones - valuable gems, precious treasures - uniquely shaped by You for a particular purpose. As we're intricately interconnected our efforts are multiplied and a holy and sacred palace arises from Your Almighty Foundation, Jesus Christ
With our hearts set firmly on You, we'll love enough to cheerfully give our personal treasures to build a glorious place to worship You, the High King of Heaven. Stir in the Spirit of every able bodied believer to industriously volunteer their time, money and expertise. The job of building a strong Church is enormous and requires a plethora of rich resources.
Young and inexperienced, we need to carefully follow the work instructions found in our Bibles. When the work is done right, people entering our sanctuary will meet You personally. As we genuinely give back to You with happy hearts what is rightfully Yours, we'll not only build strong Churches, but also strong bridges connecting people in our communities to Your heavenly kingdom.
Together, we give You thanks and jubilantly celebrate everything You've given us in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Time is precious in this busy world. Money is prized in our materialistic society. Expertise is priceless in an intellectual culture. It all came from God. Do you love Him enough to give it all back to Him?
I encourage you to read 1 Chronicles 28 & 29. I wonder what the church would be like if people responded the same way today? What would happen if we ALL acknowledged God? What would be the result if EVERYONE served him with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind? What would it be like if we desired to serve Him above all else? Envision the outcome if we came together, as strong living stones, to do the work we've been created to do? Imagine the temple we could build for our Holy God, if every believer in the church gave with heartfelt devotion all of their time, money and expertise to building Churches and bridges for God's Kingdom!
Read 1 Chronicles 28 & 29 On-line
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
O God My Father,
Majesty, honor and power belong to You. Everything in heaven and on earth is Yours. Riches and glory come from You. High and lifted up, You rule and reign over everything. Your mighty hands are strong enough to build a magnificent Church full of faithful followers.
Who are we that we should be able to give You anything? Everything we have is Yours. Help us to use the rich resources You've so generously given us to build Your church into a beautiful temple where people can divinely encounter You.
One stone does not make an ornate, palatial structure, or even a single wall. We're all living stones - valuable gems, precious treasures - uniquely shaped by You for a particular purpose. As we're intricately interconnected our efforts are multiplied and a holy and sacred palace arises from Your Almighty Foundation, Jesus Christ
With our hearts set firmly on You, we'll love enough to cheerfully give our personal treasures to build a glorious place to worship You, the High King of Heaven. Stir in the Spirit of every able bodied believer to industriously volunteer their time, money and expertise. The job of building a strong Church is enormous and requires a plethora of rich resources.
Young and inexperienced, we need to carefully follow the work instructions found in our Bibles. When the work is done right, people entering our sanctuary will meet You personally. As we genuinely give back to You with happy hearts what is rightfully Yours, we'll not only build strong Churches, but also strong bridges connecting people in our communities to Your heavenly kingdom.
Together, we give You thanks and jubilantly celebrate everything You've given us in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Time is precious in this busy world. Money is prized in our materialistic society. Expertise is priceless in an intellectual culture. It all came from God. Do you love Him enough to give it all back to Him?
I encourage you to read 1 Chronicles 28 & 29. I wonder what the church would be like if people responded the same way today? What would happen if we ALL acknowledged God? What would be the result if EVERYONE served him with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind? What would it be like if we desired to serve Him above all else? Envision the outcome if we came together, as strong living stones, to do the work we've been created to do? Imagine the temple we could build for our Holy God, if every believer in the church gave with heartfelt devotion all of their time, money and expertise to building Churches and bridges for God's Kingdom!
Read 1 Chronicles 28 & 29 On-line
Monday, February 02, 2009
Live a Life of Love
Ephesians 5:1-2
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Extravagant Lord of Love,
I'm in awe of You and Your amazing love. The way You woo me, nurture me, and care for me is astonishing! Like a tenderhearted Father, You show me how to properly behave in the Book of Love, the Holy Bible. Watching You, I'll learn how to live a life of love. Teach me to:
Talk wholesomely with thanksgiving
Encourage others
Never take advantage of anyone
Discipline my mind to think clearly
Expose the activities in my life that are futile
Respect and obey Your authority
Have a happy heart despite my circumstances
Excel at doing what's good, right and true
Avoid religious smooth talkers
Radically love without expecting anything in return
Take time to be with You
With all my heart, I want to figure out what pleases You and then do it, making the most of every change I get to shine Your light into the world. Radically change my heart today, making it like Yours. Putting the interests of others before my own, I'll find that it truly is more blessed to give than to receive. Thank You for loving me with everlasting love and drawing me to You with cords of kindness. To You be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 5 tells us exactly how to live in the family of God. Open your Bible and read it, or click on the link provided to read it on-line. Make a list of at least five specific ways you can live a life of love. Then, do it with a joyful heart.
Read Ephesians 5 on-line, The Message
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Extravagant Lord of Love,
I'm in awe of You and Your amazing love. The way You woo me, nurture me, and care for me is astonishing! Like a tenderhearted Father, You show me how to properly behave in the Book of Love, the Holy Bible. Watching You, I'll learn how to live a life of love. Teach me to:
Talk wholesomely with thanksgiving
Encourage others
Never take advantage of anyone
Discipline my mind to think clearly
Expose the activities in my life that are futile
Respect and obey Your authority
Have a happy heart despite my circumstances
Excel at doing what's good, right and true
Avoid religious smooth talkers
Radically love without expecting anything in return
Take time to be with You
With all my heart, I want to figure out what pleases You and then do it, making the most of every change I get to shine Your light into the world. Radically change my heart today, making it like Yours. Putting the interests of others before my own, I'll find that it truly is more blessed to give than to receive. Thank You for loving me with everlasting love and drawing me to You with cords of kindness. To You be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 5 tells us exactly how to live in the family of God. Open your Bible and read it, or click on the link provided to read it on-line. Make a list of at least five specific ways you can live a life of love. Then, do it with a joyful heart.
Read Ephesians 5 on-line, The Message
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