Sunday, October 30, 2016
Today's Theme is.....Prodicals
11 To illustrate the point further, Jesus told them this story: “A man had two sons. 12 The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons. 13 “A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living. 14 About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve. 15 He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs. 16 The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything. 17 “When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, 19 and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’ 20 “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. 22 “But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. 23 And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, 24 for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began. 25 “Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, 26 and he asked one of the servants what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother is back,’ he was told, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.’ 28 “The older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in. His father came out and begged him, 29 but he replied, ‘All these years I’ve slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. 30 Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!’ 31 “His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. 32 We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’”
I'm thinking someone, or someones really need to hear this today. Praying that God will wrap all who feel lost in His arms, that all who feel like God is far away and like they can never get back to Him will understand and know that He is looking down the road for them, waiting for them to return into His loving, open arms.
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Love Reminder
1 Corinthians 13
[ The Way of Love ] If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. If I speak God’s Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, “Jump,” and it jumps, but I don’t love, I’m nothing. If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love. Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love doesn’t strut, Doesn’t have a swelled head, Doesn’t force itself on others, Isn’t always “me first,” Doesn’t fly off the handle, Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, Doesn’t revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end. ...
Sometime I just need a reminder. I hadn't heard this song in a while and I guess God decided it was time to bring the desire He has for us to love as He loves to the forefront of my mind. I must admit I get caught up in self all too often, not consciously, or intentionally, just as the moments and hours of the day pass, I just focus more on what I am doing and having to do then loving those around me. I'm sure it is a common ailment among a lot of us, so God's little nudges are always timely in, and essential to our Christian walk. My Mom was so good about seeing the needs and hearts around her...I covet this gift!
Lord, teach us, lead us and remind us to love. Help us to focus on what is needed around us, how we can share Your loving touch with the our family, friends, and the world. In Jesus name, Amen.
Share God's love today!!
[ The Way of Love ] If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. If I speak God’s Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, “Jump,” and it jumps, but I don’t love, I’m nothing. If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love. Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love doesn’t strut, Doesn’t have a swelled head, Doesn’t force itself on others, Isn’t always “me first,” Doesn’t fly off the handle, Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, Doesn’t revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end. ...
Sometime I just need a reminder. I hadn't heard this song in a while and I guess God decided it was time to bring the desire He has for us to love as He loves to the forefront of my mind. I must admit I get caught up in self all too often, not consciously, or intentionally, just as the moments and hours of the day pass, I just focus more on what I am doing and having to do then loving those around me. I'm sure it is a common ailment among a lot of us, so God's little nudges are always timely in, and essential to our Christian walk. My Mom was so good about seeing the needs and hearts around her...I covet this gift!
Lord, teach us, lead us and remind us to love. Help us to focus on what is needed around us, how we can share Your loving touch with the our family, friends, and the world. In Jesus name, Amen.
Share God's love today!!
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
LOL---God Is So On Point!
From today's entry in a "thought a day" devotional I have:
Be on the lookout for mercies. The more we
look for them, the more of them we will see.
Blessings brighten when we count them.
Maltbie D. Babcock
Looking, counting.....hmmm seems to be a theme going on today!! God is so good, and so on point!
Looking Up
Days fly by, especially as we get older. I've heard there is some formula for this phenomenon...time seemingly going faster as we age, it has to do with ratios and other mathematical things that I know nothing about. But anyway, it just seems that the time is spinning faster and faster and sometimes we just forget to look up! Building seconds and minutes into the day to just look around for the Lord's handiwork is something I am trying to cultivate--it's actually looking out for the God visits.
The Lord loves to bless us. Loves to spend time with us. Jesus spent His days walking with, talking to, teaching, healing, and loving people. And God never changes. The same Jesus that walked the earth loving and caring for those around Him, is the same God today that wants to be with us, care for us and show Himself as the involved, blessing God that He always was and is. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. We've been studying the book of Joshua on Sunday mornings and in it we see how involved God was in His people's lives. He showed Himself as leader, caregiver, provider and mighty warrior on their behalf. Joshua 1:9 This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
So where is all this leading, you ask? Where did this whole conversation in my head come from? LOL....why the clouds of course! I saw the clouds and it just clicked! My Father did that! He made that amazing painting in the sky! He gives His beauty and His blessing to people everywhere, we just need to recognize and appreciate it. Too often we rush by, never noticing the wonder around us, or appreciating the divine moments that open up into our lives. Yesterday I saw the clouds. This morning I had an enjoyable conversation with a sister in the Lord. Yesterday I was able to pray with a family member going through a serious situation....All these things, small visits from the Lord that I sometimes, (well many times really) take for granted. Oh that our spiritual eyes would be wide open to God's presence and touch in our lives!! Little by little, we grow in this area. And isn't it awesome that the Lord continues to teach us.
Lord thank You for once again reminding me of Your presence and blessing all around. I guess I need that reminder often and that's okay. I am so thankful for Your patience and Your love, the fact that You always share Your heart with me, letting me and all of us know You are with us. Keep reminding us Lord!! Psalm 121:4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumber or sleeps. You never tire to teaching, of helping us to see. Thank You.
Look for God's presence today, ON PURPOSE!
The Lord loves to bless us. Loves to spend time with us. Jesus spent His days walking with, talking to, teaching, healing, and loving people. And God never changes. The same Jesus that walked the earth loving and caring for those around Him, is the same God today that wants to be with us, care for us and show Himself as the involved, blessing God that He always was and is. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. We've been studying the book of Joshua on Sunday mornings and in it we see how involved God was in His people's lives. He showed Himself as leader, caregiver, provider and mighty warrior on their behalf. Joshua 1:9 This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
So where is all this leading, you ask? Where did this whole conversation in my head come from? LOL....why the clouds of course! I saw the clouds and it just clicked! My Father did that! He made that amazing painting in the sky! He gives His beauty and His blessing to people everywhere, we just need to recognize and appreciate it. Too often we rush by, never noticing the wonder around us, or appreciating the divine moments that open up into our lives. Yesterday I saw the clouds. This morning I had an enjoyable conversation with a sister in the Lord. Yesterday I was able to pray with a family member going through a serious situation....All these things, small visits from the Lord that I sometimes, (well many times really) take for granted. Oh that our spiritual eyes would be wide open to God's presence and touch in our lives!! Little by little, we grow in this area. And isn't it awesome that the Lord continues to teach us.
Lord thank You for once again reminding me of Your presence and blessing all around. I guess I need that reminder often and that's okay. I am so thankful for Your patience and Your love, the fact that You always share Your heart with me, letting me and all of us know You are with us. Keep reminding us Lord!! Psalm 121:4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumber or sleeps. You never tire to teaching, of helping us to see. Thank You.
Look for God's presence today, ON PURPOSE!
Thursday, October 20, 2016
New Favorite!
Just loving this new song by Natalie Grant and I wanted to share it!! It's a nice way to start the day, remembering who God is. I lift You up Lord, to be the King of my world.
Hit In The Head, Literally!
Busy, busy, busy. That's life right? We run, we rush--to do lists, errands, jobs....and of course, don't forget to schedule some fun---hahaha. We take care of families help out at churches, ministries, and try to fit in taking care of ourselves. I know I don't just speak for myself when I say overwhelmed is almost a natural state of being. I'm pretty sure this isn't how God intended it to be!
So okay, I'm out for a quick run (trying to squeeze that all important exercise into my day), and as always listening to a Joyce Meyer podcast. She was talking about our lives and taking care how we live each day, making the most of our time. At one point she said, "If you don't like your schedule--change it." Hmmmm. Ok a very simple statement, right? Quite the obvious answer to overcrowded days. But God had an exclamation point for it--just to make sure I knew He was speaking to me. Right after she said that I got hit in the head with an acorn!! The Lord literally hit me in the head to get my attention! LOL Really!!! I just had to laugh out loud.
I know schedules are tight. We all seem to be in a race to get the most done in the shortest amount of time. I don't know why it has gotten like this. But I know it's not what God wants. I can't see Him being happy about overburdened, stressed out, worn out saints running around trying to shine for Him while they can barely keep their eyes open or take a breath to appreciate the time they've been given. No wonder we miss the Lord's presence in our lives so often. I'm pretty sure most of us can eliminate one or two things from our days without the whole of our world falling apart.
The most important and most imperative part of our day is spending time with the Lord, building our spiritual strength and deepening our relationship with Him on a daily basis. He can and will show us how to work out the rest of life. I have plenty of "must dos", as I'm sure most of you do. The days fly by in a whirlwindy blur of activity and sometimes chaos. But letting God slow us down is a spiritual discipline well worth cultivating. This time I was only hit in the head with a tiny acorn....I don't want to wait til the Lord uses something like a brick to learn this lesson!
This was one of the funniest God visit I've had. I love that our Lord has a great sense of humor!
I pray for each of us to let the Lord lead us in our activities, show us how to make the most of our days without being overburdened and over-scheduled. Lord, You have the perfect plan for each of our days...help us to let you set the pace. Your plans are perfect, You timing always right. I give this day to You right now Lord. Let it be as You would have it. Thank You for the funny way You relayed this most important message. Help us to take a breath often during the day---taking time to praise You, to say thank You, to just be in Your presence, moment by moment.
Pray about this in Your life. Get with God and let Him be your schedule maker.
So okay, I'm out for a quick run (trying to squeeze that all important exercise into my day), and as always listening to a Joyce Meyer podcast. She was talking about our lives and taking care how we live each day, making the most of our time. At one point she said, "If you don't like your schedule--change it." Hmmmm. Ok a very simple statement, right? Quite the obvious answer to overcrowded days. But God had an exclamation point for it--just to make sure I knew He was speaking to me. Right after she said that I got hit in the head with an acorn!! The Lord literally hit me in the head to get my attention! LOL Really!!! I just had to laugh out loud.
I know schedules are tight. We all seem to be in a race to get the most done in the shortest amount of time. I don't know why it has gotten like this. But I know it's not what God wants. I can't see Him being happy about overburdened, stressed out, worn out saints running around trying to shine for Him while they can barely keep their eyes open or take a breath to appreciate the time they've been given. No wonder we miss the Lord's presence in our lives so often. I'm pretty sure most of us can eliminate one or two things from our days without the whole of our world falling apart.
The most important and most imperative part of our day is spending time with the Lord, building our spiritual strength and deepening our relationship with Him on a daily basis. He can and will show us how to work out the rest of life. I have plenty of "must dos", as I'm sure most of you do. The days fly by in a whirlwindy blur of activity and sometimes chaos. But letting God slow us down is a spiritual discipline well worth cultivating. This time I was only hit in the head with a tiny acorn....I don't want to wait til the Lord uses something like a brick to learn this lesson!
This was one of the funniest God visit I've had. I love that our Lord has a great sense of humor!
I pray for each of us to let the Lord lead us in our activities, show us how to make the most of our days without being overburdened and over-scheduled. Lord, You have the perfect plan for each of our days...help us to let you set the pace. Your plans are perfect, You timing always right. I give this day to You right now Lord. Let it be as You would have it. Thank You for the funny way You relayed this most important message. Help us to take a breath often during the day---taking time to praise You, to say thank You, to just be in Your presence, moment by moment.
Pray about this in Your life. Get with God and let Him be your schedule maker.
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Obedience Accomplishes.....
I had one of those Scripture revelation moments recently. As I sat reading the passage on Paul's conversion (Acts 9:1-19) I saw something in that familiar old story that hadn't caught my attention before. I love when that happens!
1 Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest. 2 He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains. 3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” 5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do. 7 The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8 Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9 He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink. 10 Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord!” he replied.
11 The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. 12 I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” 13 “But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! 14 And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.” 15 But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. 16 And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” 17 So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. 19 Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.
I've underlined the verses that gave me a jolt as I read them. Obedience. Ananias was obedient. Though afraid, maybe even wondering if God was sending him to be martyred, he went to see this Saul. The Saul who stood by while Stephen was stoned to death, The Saul who was out hunting Christians with ferocious fervor and zeal. This same Saul who was now blind after encountering the risen Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus. Ananias obeyed God, and the repercussions of that obedience have changed the world. One small act, one momentous impact. It was Ananias God used to open Saul's eyes, bring him to baptism and set Saul on the new road God had chosen for him.
One man's act of obedience helped bring about the salvation of millions upon millions throughout the ages. How many churches did Paul plant? How many men, women and children did he lead to Christ? And not just when he was alive, but through his Spirit breathed writings that make up much of the New Testament. How many of us have been encouraged, corrected, comforted, and directed through the words God gave him to write. All because one man obeyed God!!
What can our obedience accomplish? It may not be on the same scale as Ananias', but then again, it may! But even if one act of obedience on my part brings one person to the Savior, then it's worth it. The value of obedience to the Lord is unfathomable. Both in the world we can see and the world we cannot.
I wonder if Ananias thought his submission in this one thing was just a small (albeit most scary) act or if he had any idea the implications were to be so significant and far reaching. I'm kind of thinking he had no idea! I mean, if we knew one small act of obedience would have a colossal impact we would most likely obey quickly and enthusiastically. But if it's something we consider small and unimportant we are more quick to shrug it off due to inconvenience, discomfort or fear. Something to consider. We never really know what is small and what is huge....but then again, is there really any small acts of obedience when it comes to God's kingdom? I don't think so.
Lord, you are amazing. I love these God visits in Scripture! I thank You for new insights. I thank You for sharing Your heart with me and through me! What an awesome privilege. Help all of us to obey in all things. We struggle. You know that. Thank You for Your mercy and Your help.
Is there something you have been putting off submitting to God in? Don't be so quick to skim over well read Bible passages, there is always something new in God's Word!
1 Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest. 2 He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains. 3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” 5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do. 7 The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8 Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9 He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink. 10 Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord!” he replied.
11 The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. 12 I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” 13 “But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! 14 And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.” 15 But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. 16 And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” 17 So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. 19 Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.
I've underlined the verses that gave me a jolt as I read them. Obedience. Ananias was obedient. Though afraid, maybe even wondering if God was sending him to be martyred, he went to see this Saul. The Saul who stood by while Stephen was stoned to death, The Saul who was out hunting Christians with ferocious fervor and zeal. This same Saul who was now blind after encountering the risen Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus. Ananias obeyed God, and the repercussions of that obedience have changed the world. One small act, one momentous impact. It was Ananias God used to open Saul's eyes, bring him to baptism and set Saul on the new road God had chosen for him.
One man's act of obedience helped bring about the salvation of millions upon millions throughout the ages. How many churches did Paul plant? How many men, women and children did he lead to Christ? And not just when he was alive, but through his Spirit breathed writings that make up much of the New Testament. How many of us have been encouraged, corrected, comforted, and directed through the words God gave him to write. All because one man obeyed God!!
What can our obedience accomplish? It may not be on the same scale as Ananias', but then again, it may! But even if one act of obedience on my part brings one person to the Savior, then it's worth it. The value of obedience to the Lord is unfathomable. Both in the world we can see and the world we cannot.
I wonder if Ananias thought his submission in this one thing was just a small (albeit most scary) act or if he had any idea the implications were to be so significant and far reaching. I'm kind of thinking he had no idea! I mean, if we knew one small act of obedience would have a colossal impact we would most likely obey quickly and enthusiastically. But if it's something we consider small and unimportant we are more quick to shrug it off due to inconvenience, discomfort or fear. Something to consider. We never really know what is small and what is huge....but then again, is there really any small acts of obedience when it comes to God's kingdom? I don't think so.
Lord, you are amazing. I love these God visits in Scripture! I thank You for new insights. I thank You for sharing Your heart with me and through me! What an awesome privilege. Help all of us to obey in all things. We struggle. You know that. Thank You for Your mercy and Your help.
Is there something you have been putting off submitting to God in? Don't be so quick to skim over well read Bible passages, there is always something new in God's Word!
Thursday, October 13, 2016
God's Attributes, From Mom
Moral Attributes
Holiness- root word "holy" means to separate from or exalted above other things.
Isaiah 6:1-3 It was the year King Uzziah died that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of His robe filled the Temple. Attending Him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With tow wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. They were calling out to each other, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven's Armies! The whole earth is filled with His glory!"
Excellent- God's gift we receive by faith through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 4:24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy.
Righteousness- refers to His affirmation of what is right as opposed to what is wrong. Refers to His moral laws, administration of justice.
Punishment- For wrongdoing. Only God holy, perfect, He alone is qualified to judge and mete out punishment.
Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock; His deeds are perfect. Everything He does is just and fair. He is a faithful God who does no wrong; how just and upright He is!
Genesis 18:25 Surely You wouldn't do such a thing, destroying the righteous along with the wicked. why, You would be treating the righteous and the wicked exactly the same! Surely You wouldn't do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?
Romans 2:6-16 He will judge everyone according to what they have done. He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. But He will pour out His anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness. There will be trouble and calamity for everyone who keeps on doing what is evil - for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. But there will be gory and honor and peace from God for all who do good - for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism. When the Gentiles sin, they will be destroyed, even though they never had God's written law. And the Jews, who do have God's law will be judged by that law when they fail to obey it. For merely listening to the law doesn't make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in His sight. Even Gentiles, who do not have God's written law, show that they know His law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard. They demonstrate that God's law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. And this is the message I proclaim - that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone's secret life.
Redemption- Comes from God alone. He makes us righteous and holy.
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes - the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in His sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a person has life."
Romans 3:24-26 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's' glorious standard. yet God, with undeserved kindness, declare that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when He feed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed His life, shedding His blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when He held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for He was looking ahead and including them in what He would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate His righteousness, for He Himself is fair and just, and He declares sinners to be right in His sight when they believe in Jesus.
Love- Essential, self-giving nature of God.
Genesis 1:31 Then God looked over all He had made, and He saw that it was very good! And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day.
Psalm 145:9 The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation.
Mark 10:18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus asked. "Only God is truly good."
Truth- All truth is grounded in God, revealed through God.
Psalm 25:5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.
John 4:24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
Wisdom- Revealed in His doing the best thing in the best way at the best time for the best purpose.
1 Timothy 1:17 All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen. To God alone Who is wise.
1 Kings 3:9 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” Claim God's wisdom.
James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. Simply by asking.
Romans 5:5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Love. God is love.
Psalm 145:9 The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation.
From me.
God's attributes. We could and will spend eternity learning Who God is, what He is like, how to love Him. I look forward to this so much. Living here on earth, in all the yuck around us, and inside of us, sometimes I feel so distant from knowing this wonderful being, God, Who I love so much....yet I know through His Word that I can be close to Him, I can know Him. This is why the Scriptures are so important to spend time with. I think this is also where meditating on them comes in. While mulling them over in our heads and hearts, they become more that just words on a page--they transform into something alive that spreads the knowledge and love of God in our hearts leading to transformed lives that bring Him glory. I want to know Him more!!!
Lord, give us a deeper knowing of You. Not just head knowledge it, but let us go beyond, straight into Your heart. Lord, I feel as if I can never have enough of You, never know You enough. I pray that feeling never stops, that You fill each of us with a burning desire for You! Reveal Yourself to us today, and every day. There is none like You.
Today, spend time with one Scripture that teaches who God is. Carry it with you throughout the day.
Holiness- root word "holy" means to separate from or exalted above other things.
Isaiah 6:1-3 It was the year King Uzziah died that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of His robe filled the Temple. Attending Him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With tow wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. They were calling out to each other, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven's Armies! The whole earth is filled with His glory!"
Excellent- God's gift we receive by faith through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 4:24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy.
Righteousness- refers to His affirmation of what is right as opposed to what is wrong. Refers to His moral laws, administration of justice.
Punishment- For wrongdoing. Only God holy, perfect, He alone is qualified to judge and mete out punishment.
Genesis 18:25 Surely You wouldn't do such a thing, destroying the righteous along with the wicked. why, You would be treating the righteous and the wicked exactly the same! Surely You wouldn't do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?
Romans 2:6-16 He will judge everyone according to what they have done. He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. But He will pour out His anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness. There will be trouble and calamity for everyone who keeps on doing what is evil - for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. But there will be gory and honor and peace from God for all who do good - for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism. When the Gentiles sin, they will be destroyed, even though they never had God's written law. And the Jews, who do have God's law will be judged by that law when they fail to obey it. For merely listening to the law doesn't make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in His sight. Even Gentiles, who do not have God's written law, show that they know His law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard. They demonstrate that God's law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. And this is the message I proclaim - that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone's secret life.
Redemption- Comes from God alone. He makes us righteous and holy.
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes - the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in His sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a person has life."
Romans 3:24-26 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's' glorious standard. yet God, with undeserved kindness, declare that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when He feed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed His life, shedding His blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when He held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for He was looking ahead and including them in what He would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate His righteousness, for He Himself is fair and just, and He declares sinners to be right in His sight when they believe in Jesus.
Love- Essential, self-giving nature of God.
Genesis 1:31 Then God looked over all He had made, and He saw that it was very good! And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day.
Psalm 145:9 The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation.
Mark 10:18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus asked. "Only God is truly good."
Truth- All truth is grounded in God, revealed through God.
Psalm 25:5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.
John 4:24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
Wisdom- Revealed in His doing the best thing in the best way at the best time for the best purpose.
1 Timothy 1:17 All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen. To God alone Who is wise.
1 Kings 3:9 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” Claim God's wisdom.
James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. Simply by asking.
Romans 5:5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Love. God is love.
Psalm 145:9 The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation.
From me.
God's attributes. We could and will spend eternity learning Who God is, what He is like, how to love Him. I look forward to this so much. Living here on earth, in all the yuck around us, and inside of us, sometimes I feel so distant from knowing this wonderful being, God, Who I love so much....yet I know through His Word that I can be close to Him, I can know Him. This is why the Scriptures are so important to spend time with. I think this is also where meditating on them comes in. While mulling them over in our heads and hearts, they become more that just words on a page--they transform into something alive that spreads the knowledge and love of God in our hearts leading to transformed lives that bring Him glory. I want to know Him more!!!
Lord, give us a deeper knowing of You. Not just head knowledge it, but let us go beyond, straight into Your heart. Lord, I feel as if I can never have enough of You, never know You enough. I pray that feeling never stops, that You fill each of us with a burning desire for You! Reveal Yourself to us today, and every day. There is none like You.
Today, spend time with one Scripture that teaches who God is. Carry it with you throughout the day.
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Helllloooo, God Talking....
Okay, so I always know God has something on His mind, something He wants me to know, think about, respond to and put into action, when He keeps bringing something to my attention in a short period of time. Usually, but not always, this takes the form of a Bible verse. This time it was Ephesians 5:19-20. This verse says: ...singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
'Nuff said! God has given me my marching orders! LOL He has made it abundantly clear what He wants going on inside and outside of me. Thinking right, talking right.
Okay, Lord. I agree with You. This verse is for me (and for all of you too!). Help me and all of us to put it into practice. To joyfully obey Your Word. It's not always easy to follow this teaching, I struggle, and I'm sure many others do as well. But through the power of the Holy Spirit we can do it! Lord, I ask for a constant reminder on this. In Jesus Name, amen.
Let's obey! 'Nuff said!
'Nuff said! God has given me my marching orders! LOL He has made it abundantly clear what He wants going on inside and outside of me. Thinking right, talking right.
Okay, Lord. I agree with You. This verse is for me (and for all of you too!). Help me and all of us to put it into practice. To joyfully obey Your Word. It's not always easy to follow this teaching, I struggle, and I'm sure many others do as well. But through the power of the Holy Spirit we can do it! Lord, I ask for a constant reminder on this. In Jesus Name, amen.
Let's obey! 'Nuff said!
God Attributes, From Mom,
God's Attributes
Attribute-inherent character of a person or being.
He is: holy, almighty, righteous, pure, all-knowing, all-powerful, all-wise. To fear (reverential awe) the Lord is to recognize God's attributes. When I regard God correctly, I gain a clearer picture of myself--sinful, weak, frail, needy. When I recognize who God is and who I am, I will fall at His feet in humble respect. Only then will He show me how to choose His way. To revere God is to hold Him in highest honor. God offers me intimate and lasting friendship when I revere Him.
Love. Holiness. Constancy. Justice. Truth. Eternal. All-knowing. All-present. All-powerful. God's attributes, as revealed in the Bible.
Spirit- John 4:24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
Changeless- Hebrews 1:12 You will fold them up like a cloak and discard them like old clothing.
But you are always the same; you will live forever.”
All-Powerful- Genesis 18:14 Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son.” Isaiah 40:28 Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
All-Knowing- Job 31:16 Do you understand how he moves the clouds with wonderful perfection and skill? Psalm 147:5 How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension! Romans ll:33-36 Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! For who can know the Lord’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back?
Everywhere- Genesis 18:25 Surely you wouldn’t do such a thing, destroying the righteous along with the wicked. Why, you would be treating the righteous and the wicked exactly the same! Surely you wouldn’t do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?” Psalm 139:7-12 I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave,you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night—but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you.
Eternal- 2 Peter 3:8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,”says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.”
From me:
Reading over these verse was inspiring for me. I tend to lose sight of God's amazing awesomeness in the everyday mess of living. I forget His greatness, and be inclined to treat God as common in my interactions with Him. So I needed this today. I need the reminder of Who He is. So, I guess in typing out Mom's journal entry today, I had a most necessary God visit!
Lord, You are so much higher, so much greater and just so much.....more than I can ever think, ever imagine. Forgive me for the times I forget that and treat You with commonality, disrespect and even a contemptuous attitude (like when I don't get my own way). I question all too often, Your care, Your ways, Your love. Yes, You are my intimate friend, my loving Daddy, and sweet, sweet Savior. But You are also the Almighty God, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, holy and fearsome. Keep me, keep each of us in balance. Let all creation praise You!
Remember and meditate on who God is today! Reverence Him!
Attribute-inherent character of a person or being.
He is: holy, almighty, righteous, pure, all-knowing, all-powerful, all-wise. To fear (reverential awe) the Lord is to recognize God's attributes. When I regard God correctly, I gain a clearer picture of myself--sinful, weak, frail, needy. When I recognize who God is and who I am, I will fall at His feet in humble respect. Only then will He show me how to choose His way. To revere God is to hold Him in highest honor. God offers me intimate and lasting friendship when I revere Him.
Love. Holiness. Constancy. Justice. Truth. Eternal. All-knowing. All-present. All-powerful. God's attributes, as revealed in the Bible.
Spirit- John 4:24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
Changeless- Hebrews 1:12 You will fold them up like a cloak and discard them like old clothing.
But you are always the same; you will live forever.”
All-Powerful- Genesis 18:14 Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son.” Isaiah 40:28 Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
All-Knowing- Job 31:16 Do you understand how he moves the clouds with wonderful perfection and skill? Psalm 147:5 How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension! Romans ll:33-36 Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! For who can know the Lord’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back?
Everywhere- Genesis 18:25 Surely you wouldn’t do such a thing, destroying the righteous along with the wicked. Why, you would be treating the righteous and the wicked exactly the same! Surely you wouldn’t do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?” Psalm 139:7-12 I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave,you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night—but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you.
Eternal- 2 Peter 3:8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,”says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.”
From me:
Reading over these verse was inspiring for me. I tend to lose sight of God's amazing awesomeness in the everyday mess of living. I forget His greatness, and be inclined to treat God as common in my interactions with Him. So I needed this today. I need the reminder of Who He is. So, I guess in typing out Mom's journal entry today, I had a most necessary God visit!
Lord, You are so much higher, so much greater and just so much.....more than I can ever think, ever imagine. Forgive me for the times I forget that and treat You with commonality, disrespect and even a contemptuous attitude (like when I don't get my own way). I question all too often, Your care, Your ways, Your love. Yes, You are my intimate friend, my loving Daddy, and sweet, sweet Savior. But You are also the Almighty God, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, holy and fearsome. Keep me, keep each of us in balance. Let all creation praise You!
Remember and meditate on who God is today! Reverence Him!
Thursday, October 6, 2016
God, From Mom, Part 3
Intimacy is on of the characteristics of a heart turned toward God.
Know God through His Word.
Daniel 11:32 He will flatter and win over those who have violated the covenant. But the people who know their God will be strong and resist him. (again, the first "he" here is not God, but a character referred to as the king of the north.)
We can learn about God by His attributes. An attribute is an inherant characteristic of a person or a being.
Psalm 8:1 O Lord, our Lord, you majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. This is the personal name of God combined with the meaning "Master, Sovereign," all sufficient God.
From the footnote of Mom's Bible on Psalm 91:1-2
God - "the Lord" is the personal name of God (Yahweh)
Elyon - the Most High
Elohim - the sublime God
El Shaddai - God Almighty
Psalm 91:1-2 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord; He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him.
Psalm 63 speaks of fellowship with God.
1 O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. 2 I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory. 3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! 4 I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. 5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy. 6 I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. 7 Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
8 I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely. 9 But those plotting to destroy me will come to ruin. They will go down into the depths of the earth. 10 They will die by the sword and become the food of jackals. 11 But the king will rejoice in God. All who swear to tell the truth will praise him, while liars will be silenced.
From the "Truth in Action" commentary of Mom's Bible. vs1-2: Thirst for God. Anticipate. This will result in more time with Him. This is a worship hymn to God. Falling in love with Jesus. True worship.
Longing for God. Psalm 42:1-2 As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before Him?
This is my prayer, my hearts desire. Oh, that I would have a longing and thirst for You, Lord. My hearts desire - to know You intimately, to walk close beside You always, to know Your grace, love, power. This is my prayer.
From me:
And mine too. My heart echoes Mom's that I would have a longing and thirst for the Lord. It's not always easy to find in ourselves, the daily routine and concern for the tangible drown out our need and desire for the divine. Sometimes we have to quiet our hearts and minds and just seek Him. When we do, we find that deep yearning that can only be filled by the Almighty.
Lord, continue to fill me with this desire. I want to thirst for You as David did. Let it be my driving need. Jesus said in Matthew 4:4...People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." I need You, Your words, Your presence more than food, more than water, more than anything this life or this world have to offer. Lord, sometimes I forget this. I see and feel the world around me, and lose my true north, my truest focus, which is You. I thank You for the desire You've put within me for Yourself. I ask that You increase it. Keep it in the forefront of my thoughts. Give each of us a deeper desire for You. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Today, put aside the world, the concerns and the to do lists, for just a little while and seek the Lord. Ask Him to fill your with this desire for Himself. And then act, in faith, on that desire.
Know God through His Word.
Daniel 11:32 He will flatter and win over those who have violated the covenant. But the people who know their God will be strong and resist him. (again, the first "he" here is not God, but a character referred to as the king of the north.)
We can learn about God by His attributes. An attribute is an inherant characteristic of a person or a being.
Psalm 8:1 O Lord, our Lord, you majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. This is the personal name of God combined with the meaning "Master, Sovereign," all sufficient God.
From the footnote of Mom's Bible on Psalm 91:1-2
God - "the Lord" is the personal name of God (Yahweh)
Elyon - the Most High
Elohim - the sublime God
El Shaddai - God Almighty
Psalm 91:1-2 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord; He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him.
Psalm 63 speaks of fellowship with God.
1 O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. 2 I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory. 3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! 4 I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. 5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy. 6 I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. 7 Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
8 I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely. 9 But those plotting to destroy me will come to ruin. They will go down into the depths of the earth. 10 They will die by the sword and become the food of jackals. 11 But the king will rejoice in God. All who swear to tell the truth will praise him, while liars will be silenced.
From the "Truth in Action" commentary of Mom's Bible. vs1-2: Thirst for God. Anticipate. This will result in more time with Him. This is a worship hymn to God. Falling in love with Jesus. True worship.
Longing for God. Psalm 42:1-2 As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before Him?
This is my prayer, my hearts desire. Oh, that I would have a longing and thirst for You, Lord. My hearts desire - to know You intimately, to walk close beside You always, to know Your grace, love, power. This is my prayer.
From me:
And mine too. My heart echoes Mom's that I would have a longing and thirst for the Lord. It's not always easy to find in ourselves, the daily routine and concern for the tangible drown out our need and desire for the divine. Sometimes we have to quiet our hearts and minds and just seek Him. When we do, we find that deep yearning that can only be filled by the Almighty.
Lord, continue to fill me with this desire. I want to thirst for You as David did. Let it be my driving need. Jesus said in Matthew 4:4...People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." I need You, Your words, Your presence more than food, more than water, more than anything this life or this world have to offer. Lord, sometimes I forget this. I see and feel the world around me, and lose my true north, my truest focus, which is You. I thank You for the desire You've put within me for Yourself. I ask that You increase it. Keep it in the forefront of my thoughts. Give each of us a deeper desire for You. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Today, put aside the world, the concerns and the to do lists, for just a little while and seek the Lord. Ask Him to fill your with this desire for Himself. And then act, in faith, on that desire.
He Hears Each Prayer....
As is our practice Sundays at church we have a special time of prayer. Requests are voiced, needs are mentioned and we bring them before the Lord as a group each week. I sat in my chair, jotting down the names and needs as I usually do, but this time I noted them on the back of my bulletin, not noticing the picture next to where I was making my list. And then I did. And what a perfect answer to prayer that picture was. A reminder of God's care and ultimate deliverance we have to rest in and look forward to. One day, all these needs will be swept away, like the tears from our eyes and we will live in His presence, whole, healthy, and at peace forever. What a beautiful God we serve.
All I can say is thank You Lord. You are truly a good and loving Father. Thank You.
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
God, From Mom Part 2
I think I mixed up the order of this entry from Mom....but I am believing there is a reason for it. And so I will go backward to the page I missed and start from there! It's kind of like that verse or passage in the Bible you were supposed to find, but you ended up reading and studying the "wrong" one, but it really was the one God knew you needed. God knows best!!
To know God through a personal relationship of faith (belief in). To know God through a study of what the Bible teaches about His nature.
Leviticus 19:2 “Give the following instructions to the entire community of Israel. You must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy."
Jeremiah 32:27 “I am the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?
What do the writers say about Him and His remarkable attributes?
Psalm 19:1-4 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. 2 Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. 3 They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. 4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,
and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.
Romans 1:16-20 16 For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.17 This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.” 18 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
1 John 4:8-10 But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
Look at the amazing things God has done.
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Exodus 14:21-31 21 Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the Lord opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. 22 So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side!
23 Then the Egyptians—all of Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and charioteers—chased them into the middle of the sea. 24 But just before dawn the Lord looked down on the Egyptian army from the pillar of fire and cloud, and he threw their forces into total confusion. 25 He twisted their chariot wheels, making their chariots difficult to drive. “Let’s get out of here—away from these Israelites!” the Egyptians shouted. “The Lord is fighting for them against Egypt!” 26 When all the Israelites had reached the other side, the Lord said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the sea again. Then the waters will rush back and cover the Egyptians and their chariots and charioteers.” 27 So as the sun began to rise, Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the water rushed back into its usual place. The Egyptians tried to escape, but the Lord swept them into the sea. 28 Then the waters returned and covered all the chariots and charioteers—the entire army of Pharaoh. Of all the Egyptians who had chased the Israelites into the sea, not a single one survived. 29 But the people of Israel had walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, as the water stood up like a wall on both sides. 30 That is how the Lord rescued Israel from the hand of the Egyptians that day. And the Israelites saw the bodies of the Egyptians washed up on the seashore. 31 When the people of Israel saw the mighty power that the Lord had unleashed against the Egyptians, they were filled with awe before him. They put their faith in the Lord and in his servant Moses.
John 3:16 For God loved the world so much that he gave His one and only Soon, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
From me:
Knowing God. There is no higher purpose, no greater pleasure, no bigger honor that we could hope for in life. It is what we were created for. Who we were created for. It is why, until we find Him, there will always be an emptiness in our hearts looking to be filled. We are so blessed to have a God who desires for us to know Him, and willingly, lovingly reveals and shares Himself with us. He looks for those who seek Him with all their hearts. Deuteronomy 4:29 But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul. He promises we will find Him.
Lord, let us seek You, let us get to know You. Give us hearts to take the time to learn Who You are, As a dear friend we desire to spend time with, a new love we desire to know better. There is no greater friend, no better love, no dearer being with whom we can have fellowship. Thank You that You cherish our company, Give us a thirst for Your presence and the knowledge of Who You are.
Spend time today getting to know God. Set apart some quiet time to sit and be in His presence, to look at His Word and discover this wonderful Creator and Savior of ours.
To know God through a personal relationship of faith (belief in). To know God through a study of what the Bible teaches about His nature.
Psalm 139 1 O Lord, you have examined my heart
and know everything about me.
2 You know when I sit down or stand up.
You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
3 You see me when I travel
and when I rest at home.
You know everything I do.
4 You know what I am going to say
even before I say it, Lord.
5 You go before me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to understand!
7 I can never escape from your Spirit!
I can never get away from your presence!
8 If I go up to heaven, you are there;
if I go down to the grave,[a] you are there.
9 If I ride the wings of the morning,
if I dwell by the farthest oceans,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
and your strength will support me.
11 I could ask the darkness to hide me
and the light around me to become night—
12 but even in darkness I cannot hide from you.
To you the night shines as bright as day.
Darkness and light are the same to you.
13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
16 You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed.
17 How precious are your thoughts about me,[b] O God.
They cannot be numbered!
18 I can’t even count them;
they outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up,
you are still with me!
19 O God, if only you would destroy the wicked!
Get out of my life, you murderers!
20 They blaspheme you;
your enemies misuse your name.
21 O Lord, shouldn’t I hate those who hate you?
Shouldn’t I despise those who oppose you?
22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred,
for your enemies are my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 Point out anything in me that offends you,
and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
verses 13-18 God is omnipotent (all powerful), verses 7-12 God is omnipresent (always present) and verses 1-6 God is omniscient (all knowing).
To know God reveals -- God is three, co-equal. God is Spirit, unity, trinity. God is love. 1 John 4 16-17 God is love, and all who live in love live in God and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face Him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in the world.
He is: Father of all men. Father of Christ, an eternal, unique relationship. Father of all believers, a relationship established by grace. Father of Israel, a bond established by covenant. Father, a word chosen to communicate one of the primary ways God wants us to know Him.
How can I know the God Who is there? Does God truly exist? Think (meditate) on these following thoughts and questions.
1) What were we made for? To know God.
2) What aim should we have in life? To know God.
3) What is the eternal life that Jesus gives? To know God.
4) What is the best thing in life? To know God.
5) What in man gives God the most pleasure? Knowledge of Himself.
Know God through His Word.
Daniel 11:32 He will flatter and win over those who have violated the covenant. But the people who know their God will be strong and will resist him. Just as a notation here, the him Daniel is speaking of here is known as the king of the north, he is an enemy of God and His people.
Getting to know God -- what does He say about Himself?
Exodus 34:6-7 The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, “Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy!I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. 7 I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations.”
Leviticus 19:2 “Give the following instructions to the entire community of Israel. You must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy."
Jeremiah 32:27 “I am the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?
What do the writers say about Him and His remarkable attributes?
Psalm 19:1-4 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. 2 Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. 3 They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. 4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,
and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.
Romans 1:16-20 16 For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.17 This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.” 18 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
1 John 4:8-10 But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
Look at the amazing things God has done.
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Exodus 14:21-31 21 Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the Lord opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. 22 So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side!
23 Then the Egyptians—all of Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and charioteers—chased them into the middle of the sea. 24 But just before dawn the Lord looked down on the Egyptian army from the pillar of fire and cloud, and he threw their forces into total confusion. 25 He twisted their chariot wheels, making their chariots difficult to drive. “Let’s get out of here—away from these Israelites!” the Egyptians shouted. “The Lord is fighting for them against Egypt!” 26 When all the Israelites had reached the other side, the Lord said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the sea again. Then the waters will rush back and cover the Egyptians and their chariots and charioteers.” 27 So as the sun began to rise, Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the water rushed back into its usual place. The Egyptians tried to escape, but the Lord swept them into the sea. 28 Then the waters returned and covered all the chariots and charioteers—the entire army of Pharaoh. Of all the Egyptians who had chased the Israelites into the sea, not a single one survived. 29 But the people of Israel had walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, as the water stood up like a wall on both sides. 30 That is how the Lord rescued Israel from the hand of the Egyptians that day. And the Israelites saw the bodies of the Egyptians washed up on the seashore. 31 When the people of Israel saw the mighty power that the Lord had unleashed against the Egyptians, they were filled with awe before him. They put their faith in the Lord and in his servant Moses.
John 3:16 For God loved the world so much that he gave His one and only Soon, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
From me:
Knowing God. There is no higher purpose, no greater pleasure, no bigger honor that we could hope for in life. It is what we were created for. Who we were created for. It is why, until we find Him, there will always be an emptiness in our hearts looking to be filled. We are so blessed to have a God who desires for us to know Him, and willingly, lovingly reveals and shares Himself with us. He looks for those who seek Him with all their hearts. Deuteronomy 4:29 But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul. He promises we will find Him.
Lord, let us seek You, let us get to know You. Give us hearts to take the time to learn Who You are, As a dear friend we desire to spend time with, a new love we desire to know better. There is no greater friend, no better love, no dearer being with whom we can have fellowship. Thank You that You cherish our company, Give us a thirst for Your presence and the knowledge of Who You are.
Spend time today getting to know God. Set apart some quiet time to sit and be in His presence, to look at His Word and discover this wonderful Creator and Savior of ours.
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