Grace Like Rain

May28

by Sindy Nagel

May Your grace like rain

Fall down on me

Cleanse my heart

And set me free

From my sin and shame

And its grip on me

May Your grace like rain

Wash over me

By Your grace, I’m saved

Now I’m dead to sin

So that I may live

A full life again

Out of Your great love

Your Son died for me

Paid my price for sin

Now I am redeemed

God, Your grace like rain

Washes over me

By no works of mine

Your grace is free

Lord, let me testify

To Your good news

So not one of your sheep

Its life will lose

Lord, empower me

To share Your light

So that all will see

Your love and might

Let Your grace like rain

Fall down on me

Let me live the life

You designed for me

I thank You, Lord

For Your gift of grace

That You’ve given me

To run this race

Let Your favor rest

On my life in You

So that I may do

All You ask me to

⁸For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)

Peace and Rest

May27

A message from God’s heart to yours:

²⁸ “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Are you tired, worn down, or exhausted? Come to Me and find your rest in Me. Join yourself to Me, and I will strengthen you and uphold you. Take My yoke and walk the journey with Me. I will carry the weight of your burdens. I do not give you more than you can handle. Learn from Me. I am gentle. Experience My peace. I am humble. I do not require of you more than you can give Me. I am your sanctuary, your safe haven, a place of peace and rest.

The world will heap on you burden upon burden. My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Come to Me and find your rest in Me. My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. Do not listen to the world when it shouts whom you should be. Do not believe the quiet whispers of the enemy, he is the father of lies.

Come near to Me, and I will come near to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I am your Father and you are My child. Find your identity in Me, not in the world. The confidence you gain from the knowledge of whose you are will give you the peace you desire, even in the middle of the storm.

Delight yourself in Me, and I will give you the desires of your heart. I have fashioned you and formed you with a heart like Mine. Come to Me and let Me pour Myself into you. Learn from Me. Listen to Me. Listen and obey. Find peace and rest in knowing and doing My will. Find joy in your obedience to My commands.

I love you My child, you belong to Me. You are Mine, and I am yours. Find your rest in Me. You can do all things through Christ Who gives you strength. All things are possible with God.

Matthew 11:28-30, John 14:27, John 8:44, James 4:8, Jeremiah 29:13, Psalm 37:4, Philippians 4:13, Matthew 19:26

Power to Grasp the Love of Christ

Aug13

Ephesians 3:14-21

¹⁴For this reason I kneel before the Father, ¹⁵from Whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. ¹⁶I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, ¹⁷so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, ¹⁸may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, ¹⁹and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. ²⁰Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, ²¹to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

A message from God’s heart to yours:

Beloved one, you are My child, My family. Since you invited Jesus Christ, My Son, to dwell in your heart through faith, I have also sent My Spirit to dwell inside you. You have the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead living in you. I strengthen you with My power through My Spirit. You have the power to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ for you. You may know this love that surpasses knowledge. Be filled to the measure of all My fullness. I can do much more than you ever ask, according to My power at work within you. This brings Me glory.

You are an expression of My love toward humankind. You are My image bearer, filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Let your light shine for all to see. You are in the world, but not of the world. Let your light be a beacon, shining brightly in a darkened world. Let others taste and see My goodness and bring glory to Me through your good deeds.

You are the salt of the earth. Do not lose your saltiness. Remain in relationship with Me so that you may season others with My grace. Be full of mercy and kindness. Always know how to answer everyone. Make the most of every opportunity to proclaim the mystery of Christ. Always be ready to tell a watching world the reason for your hope.

Remain in My Word, it is choice food for your soul. If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask anything and it will be done for you. It is to My glory that you bear much fruit, showing yourself to be the followers of Jesus Christ, the Way.

Live by the Spirit and keep in step with Him. He will lead you and guide you on your way. He will empower you to do all that I ask of you. I have great plans for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you. Seek Me with all your heart to know the depths of Mine. Pursue Me daily and experience My peace.

Supporting Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-21, Matthew 5:14, John 17:14, Psalm 34:8, Matthew 5:13, Colossians 4:2-6, John 15:7-8, Galatians 5:25, Jeremiah 29:11-14

Click here to purchase Sindy’s latest book from her new series: Pursuing the Heart of God – Books 1 & 2

Pursuing the Heart of God Series – Book 1

O Silent Night, O Holy Night

Dec25

O silent night, O holy night

As they followed one bright star

The Magi traveled from the East

To Bethlehem afar

To see the Baby King at last

Whose birth was long foretold

The promise of the Messiah

Whose name was Christ the Lord

For God so loved the world—that’s us

He gave His only Son

To be reconciled with us all

For the Way, there’s only One

Confess your sin, believe in Christ

Who paid the wages of your debt

He gave His life in exchange for yours

The most humble sacrifice yet

Believe in Him and live your life

To please the Only One

Who loved you more than you could know

By sending His Only Son

Put God first, make time for Him

To talk to Him in prayer

Then, sit quietly and listen

As the Lord meets you there

Be still and know that He is God

Who whispers in your heart,

I love you and I give to you–

My wisdom, I impart

My guidance awaits you, child

As you meet with Me alone

For I am always with you–

Your heart, it is My home

Come near to Me and sit with Me

As I meet you one-on-one

A relationship only possible

By the death of My own Son

I delight in you, and My love for you

Is more than you can grasp

I will give you everything you want

You simply need to ask

Remain in Me, and I in you

Closer than arm’s length

And you can do all things

Thru Christ who gives you strength

In all things that happen, child,

I work for your own good

I use each trial and heartache

Better than anyone ever could

I made you in My image:

My peace, My joy, My love

Be a light of joy in the world

As a witness to God above

O silent night, O holy night

Enjoy this Christmas Day

Remembering the greatest gift

The Baby King in the manger hay

Merry Christmas,

Sindy Nagel

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 66 – Seek Me First

May28

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 66

Seek Me First

Lord, I am ashamed to say that so often I do not ‘Seek You First’. I run ahead making my own plans and do not consult You until later, after the plans have been made. Lord, this will be a good lesson for me. Teach me Your will, Lord. Show me Your heart. What do You want me to know? How do I keep You my highest priority—in the forefront of my mind at all times? Glory to Your holy name. You deserve all my heart—my first fruits, not the leftovers. Train me in holiness and righteousness. Let me live in to the person You had in mind when You formed me in the secret place. Transform me into the likeness of Jesus Christ, Your Son, who was obedient to You at all cost—even death on a cross. I want to be pleasing to You. I submit my heart to You now, Lord. Educate me in Your desires.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My beloved child, here is My heart for you. I created you so I could show My love to you. I created you so you could show your love to Me. I created you so I could have an intimate relationship with you. You are My bride and I am your Bridegroom. Yes, that intimate.

Think of your marriage relationship. That is the type of relationship I desire with you. Remember your marriage vows, the promises you made to one another on that sacred wedding day: to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.

I want to have all of your heart, and hold you in My arms of love. Seek Me in good times and bad—for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health. I love you and cherish you. I desire the same—love Me and cherish Me.

When you relate to your spouse in a healthy, godly way, you will put them in first place, second only to Me. You are willing to lay down your life, setting aside your desires, for the good of your spouse and your relationship. You put his or her wants and needs ahead of your own. You consult with your spouse before you make plans for yourself.

That is all I ask of you. Treat Me as your marriage partner. Seek Me first. Out of reverence and respect, consult with Me before making your plans. I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:11-13). Seek Me first; My plans are always in your best interest.

Also, think of a parent/child relationship. You want your child to seek you before he or she makes his or her plans. You want to give your permission, your blessing, your wisdom to your child. You may have better plans for them, than they are making for themselves. You are always looking out for the best interest of your child. You help them avoid traps and pitfalls. That is all I want for you too—I want the best for you. I want to help you avoid the negative consequences of plans made in haste without seeking Me first. Your plans may be good, but My plans are always the best. You are My child, and I love you. Will you seek Me first?

Because you don’t see Me, you forget about Me. I am as real as your spouse, your parent, your child. When you think of your spouse, think of Me also. When you think of your child, remember Me at the same time. When you think of your parent, reflect on Me also. When you consider those who are closest to you, include Me in that list. You may not see Me, but I am here—remember Me, and put Me first. I care for you, and I desire a close relationship with you.

Love Me with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (Matthew 22:37). Seek first My kingdom and My righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33). I love those who love Me, and those who seek Me find Me (Proverbs 8:17). Seek Me with all your heart; seek Me first. I love you, My child. Remember Me.

Prayer:

Father God, You are so right. You are so righteous. You have my best interests in mind. I will seek You first. I will find You. I will remember You. I desire a close, intimate relationship with You also. Lord, Holy Spirit, help me remember You. Remind me at all times that You are here with me—You never leave me or forget about me (Joshua 1:5). Speak to me now as I put You first for the next few moments with You, Lord. Let me hear clearly from You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Father, I love You. Please share Your heart with me now. How do You feel about me? (Record all the thoughts He pours into your heart and mind.)

Jesus, You are the ultimate model of putting God first and seeking Him first in all things. Lord, teach me Your ways. How do I do this? (Write every idea and thought He gives you now.)

Holy Spirit, empower me to remember God at all times. Remind me of His presence and His truth. Help me remember to seek Him first in all things. What do I need to seek Him first about today? (Journal all your thoughts and impressions.)

Review God’s thoughts and impressions you’ve sensed and written above. What Scripture comes to mind as you review your notes? Use the concordance of your Bible to look up an impression from God’s Word. Record the verse or passage here. Write all insights and encouragement the Holy Spirit illumines for you as you read God’s Word right now.

Prayer:

Jesus, my Bridegroom, help me to be a loving, devoted bride. I want to honor You with my love and respect, my attention and obedience, my commitment and steadfastness. Remind me to put You ahead of everything and everyone. Help me to remember You and seek You before I make any plans of any kind. I love You with all my heart, soul, and mind. Help me live out that kind of love and devotion to You. Help me be the kind of bride that pleases You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Deuteronomy 4:29, But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Deuteronomy 5:7, “You shall have no other gods before Me.”

Deuteronomy 6:5, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

Joshua 1:5, “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you.”

Joshua 24:15, But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.

Psalm 5:3, In the morning, Lord, You hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

Psalm 105:3-4, Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.

Proverbs 8:17, I love those who love Me, and those who seek Me find Me.

Isaiah 55:6, Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.

Jeremiah 29:11-13, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.”

Jeremiah 33:2-3, “This is what the Lord says, He who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it—the Lord is His name: ‘Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’”

Matthew 6:33, But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Matthew 22:36-39, ³⁶“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” ³⁷Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ ³⁸This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Matthew 28:20, “…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Mark 1:35, Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.

Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 65 – Listen to My Voice

May27

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 65

Listen to My Voice

Father, You wake me early every morning to spend time with You. Thank You for the daily gift of hearing a word from You, whether it be an instruction I hear from Your lips, or a truth I read in Scripture, all give life to my soul. I am blessed to be Your child and have the ability to recognize Your voice within. Thank You for Your words of truth, always timely and edifying.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

Good morning, My child. I awaken you morning by morning, awaken your ear to listen like one being taught. I, the Sovereign LORD, have opened your ears (Isaiah 50:4-5). When your eyes flutter open early in the morning, do not return to your slumber. Get up and meet with Me. There is no better time than first thing in the morning to receive My great love and wise instruction for your life. Jesus, My Son, modeled this as He got up while it was still dark and went to a solitary place to speak with Me (Mark 1:35). Follow Jesus to Me. Approach My throne of grace with confidence, so that you may receive mercy and find grace to help you in your time of need (Hebrews 4:16). You need Me in the morning. I will give you the best approach for your day.

Come, listen, listen to Me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to Me; listen, that you may live (Isaiah 55:1-3). Seek Me while I may be found; call on Me while I am near (Isaiah 55:6). I am with you always, all hours of the day and night. O sleeper, rise up and speak with Me in the morning. I have come to give you life in abundance.

I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love Me—the LORD your God—listen to My voice, and hold fast to Me. I am your life (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear (Mark 4:23). I speak to you all hours of the day. Are you listening to My voice within you? Do you hear My thoughts in your mind?

My sheep listen to My voice. I call My own sheep by name and lead them out. When I have brought out all My own, I go on ahead of them, and My sheep follow Me because they know My voice (John 10:2-4). Are you listening? Do you know My voice? Pay attention to the voice of My Spirit who dwells in your heart. I do not overpower you with the sound of thunder. My voice is most often like a whisper. Sharpen your listening skills, and tune in to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. He will remind you of everything I have said to you. He speaks only the truth. He will take from what is Mine and make it known to you, even the things to come (John 16:13-15).

You are My sheep. My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me (John 10:27). Follow Me, My sheep. I will lead you on the path I have marked out for you. I will guide you in the way everlasting. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My loving eye on you (Psalm 32:8). My eyes are upon the faithful (Psalm 101:6)). I go before you and behind you; I hem you in under the wing of My protection. Listen to My voice all the days of your life, and it will go well with you; confidence, peace, and joy will be yours in abundance.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me the ears to hear what You are saying. I will listen to Your voice and experience the abundance Your Son came to give me. Share with me Your heart right now as we sit and speak to each other in quiet conversation—Your heart to my ears. Lord, let me hear Your voice and know You more intimately, as You already know me. In the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Father God, I desire to know Your deepest thoughts, Your desires for my life, Your instructions for my day. Please speak to me now and lead me on my way. (Record everything He says to you.)

Jesus, the living Son of God, light my way today. Give me the understanding You want me to have. Teach me Your ways, and enlighten my mind with Your thoughts. I am anxious to hear Your truth. (Write down the ideas and knowledge He gives you.)

Spirit of Truth, give me ears to hear what You say to me. What do you want me to know today? What lie have I believed? What is the truth? (Journal all His words of truth to you today.)

Prayer:

Lord of lords, I submit myself to you today. You are the Sovereign Lord, God of all, ruler of all things, and I am Your child—blessed with Your abundance—all that belongs to You is mine. I will meditate on Your Word, day and night. It will be the feast my body, mind, and spirit crave. I will find my spiritual nourishment in You. O Bread from heaven, be my manna for today. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Deuteronomy 30:19-20, ¹⁹This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live ²⁰and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him. For the LORD is your life, and He will give you many years in the land He swore to give to your fathers., Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”

Psalm 101:6, My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with Me; the one whose walk is blameless will minister to me.

Isaiah 50:4-5, ⁴The Sovereign LORD has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. ⁵The Sovereign LORD has opened my ears; I have not been rebellious, I have not turned away.

Isaiah 55:1-3, 6, ¹“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have not money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. ²Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to Me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. ³Give ear and come to Me; listen, that you may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David.” …⁶Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.

Mark 1:35, Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.

Mark 4:23, “If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear.”

John 10:2-4, ²“The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. ³The gatekeeper opens the gate for Him, and the sheep listen to His voice. He calls His own sheep by name and leads them out. ⁴When He has brought out all His own, He goes on ahead of them, and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice.”

John 10:27, “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

John 16:13-15, ¹³“But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come. ¹⁴He will bring glory to Me by taking from what is Mine and making it known to you. ¹⁵All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is shy I said the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you.”

Hebrews 4:16, Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 64 – The Secret Place

May26

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 64

The Secret Place

Lord, what exactly to you mean by ‘the secret place’?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My darling child, the secret place is simply the place you and I meet alone, away from crowds, noise, and distractions. The meeting place may be a room in your home, a secluded garden, a mountain top, or a jail cell. The ‘secret’ is you and I alone together. This may happen anywhere you are, anytime of the day or night. The secret place is a special place in your heart that you and I connect and communicate.

I have said, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:5-6).^“But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:17-18). Prayer and fasting done in secret will be rewarded. Anything done in the secret place with Me will be My gift to you.

Go to the secret place when you pray. Go to the secret place to seek Me and find Me. Go to the secret place to hear My voice and know My thoughts. Go to the secret place to discern My will. Go to the secret place to acquire My wisdom and My strength. Go to the secret place to find My peace in the middle of chaos. Go to the secret place to experience My love and joy.

My desire is that you frequent the secret place at least daily; My preference is that you and I meet there throughout the day. I am always waiting for you in the secret place. Seek Me at all times; I am here. Believe it! You may find Me and hear Me speak to you any time you will make the time to listen; any time you will quiet your heart enough to hear My still, small voice.

Run to the secret place for a word of encouragement. Hide in the secret place and experience My protection. Walk with Me in the secret place; I will share My heart with you. Eat with Me in the secret place; I have a feast prepared for you. Let My Spirit refresh your soul in the secret place. It is no secret that I love you, and I desire to spend time alone with you, one-on-one, in secret. See you there soon!

Prayer:

Father, I am going in to the secret place right now to be with You, and You have been here waiting for me. It feels so good and so peaceful spending time here alone with You. Thank You for dwelling in my heart, so that I may meet with You any time of the day or night. It is such a gift to hear Your voice and discover Your thoughts. Please share more with me right now. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Abba Father, what do You want me to know about this secret place that You and I meet? What do You want me to know about our relationship? (Write every thought you have and word you hear.)

Jesus, my brother, is our relationship the same as my relationship with the Father? What do You want me to know and hear about the relationship You and I share? (Record all your thoughts, feelings, and ideas.)

Holy Spirit, thank You for dwelling in the secret place. Help me to make time to be there more regularly. You are always there waiting for me. What do you want me to know about our relationship and our meeting time? (Journal everything He makes known to you.)

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for sharing Your heart with me again today. It is so great knowing Your intimate thoughts, desires, and messages of love and encouragement to me. I am grateful that Jesus made the way for me to communicate with You, at all times, in all places. I carry You in my heart wherever I go. My desire is to remain in You and You in me. Come near to me now, my Friend. Let me know Your presence and feel Your love. I put my trust in You and receive the confidence that You are in control of all things. This brings me much peace and joy, no matter the circumstances I may be in. You are my Comforter, my Guide, my Protector an Provider. You are my Savior and Deliverer. You are my Rock and Refuge, my hiding place. Thank You for being my All-in-All; You are everything to me. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 139:13-17, ¹³For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mothers’ womb. ¹⁴I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. ¹⁵My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. ¹⁶Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the day ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. ¹⁷How precious to me are Your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!

Matthew 6:5-6, ⁵“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. ⁶But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Matthew 6:16-18, ¹⁶“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. ¹⁷But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, ¹⁸so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 63 – Your Body, My Temple

May25

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 63

Your Body, My Temple

Oh Lord, I am in awe that You, the Sovereign ruler of the universe, would choose to make my heart your dwelling place. I am so blessed, and yet, so convicted that I should live a life pleasing to You. However, I still fall short, so many times. I don’t remember that You live in Me, or choose to live according to the flesh, rather than the Spirit. Please show me Your heart.

Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

You are My child. I have adopted you as My sons and daughters. You are a member of My family. You have received My life in you. I have given you My Spirit. I sent My Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is My Son, I live in them and they in Me. So you know and rely on the love I have for you. I am love. Whoever lives in love lives in Me, and I in them (1 John 4:13-16). I live in you.

Be careful how you live—not as unwise but as wise. Do not become drunk on wine, but be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:15-20). Flee sexual immorality. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from Me? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor Me with your bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18-20).

The one who keeps My commands lives in Me, and I in them. And this is how you know that I live in you: You know it by the Spirit I gave you (1 John 3:24). And if the Spirit of Jesus is living in you, I will also give life to you because of His Spirit who lives in you (Romans 8:11). I anointed you, set My seal of ownership on you, and put My Spirit in your hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come (2 Corinthians 1:21-22). You are Mine and you will spend eternity in heaven with Me.

My Son has said, “Anyone who loves Me will obey My teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them” (John 14:23). I am with you always; live with that in mind. Do not defile your body, My home. Keep your heart pure. Die to sins and live for the righteousness provided by My Son (1 Peter 2:24). Let others be won over to Me without words by your behavior when they see the purity and reverence of your lives (1 Peter 3:1-2).

Your body is My temple. Worship Me with your body. Treat it with care and respect. Take care of your body, My home. Your heart is My sanctuary. Live as dedicated to Me, set apart for a higher purpose. You are My workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which I prepared in advance for you to do (Ephesians 2:10). Honor Me in all you do and say. You are Mine; live as so.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, my heart is Your home. You live and work in me. Therefore, I can hear the voice of Your Spirit within me, as He teaches me more of Your character and Your ways. Lord, speak to me now as we meet in sweet fellowship in Jesus Christ. I am eager to hear a word from You today. Show me more of Your heart through our intimate conversations right now. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Abba Father, please show me any ways that I have offended You with my body. Help me to see the error of my behaviors, and let me repent of my sins. (Record everything He shows you, and then, confess your sin and turn from these ways.)

Jesus, my Savior, teach me what it means to live a life set apart for You. (Write down all thoughts and ideas He gives you.)

Holy Spirit, convict me of my sin and help me to live a life of purity and righteousness. Spend some time with me now, cleaning my heart, Your home. (Journal everything you heart from Him.)

Prayer:

Father in heaven, who lives in me, I want to honor You with my body. I want to live as dead to sin and alive to Christ. Empower me to live a life set apart for you; a life of holiness and purity, free from debauchery. I want to live by Your commands, empowered by Your Spirit, to carry out the work You planned for me from the beginning. Thank You for the gift of Your Spirit who helps me in my weakness. I yield my spirit to the sanctifying work of Your Spirit in my life. I desire to display the fruit of self-control in my life. Spirit of God, please produce that fruit in me. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

John 14:23-26, ²³Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves Me will obey My teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. ²⁴Anyone who does not love Me will not obey My teaching. These words you hear are not My own; they belong to the Father who sent Me. ²⁵All this I have spoken while still with you. ²⁶But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. “

Romans 8:9-11, ⁹You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. ¹⁰But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. ¹¹And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you.

1 Corinthians 3:16, Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?

1 Corinthians 6:18-20, ¹⁸Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. ¹⁹Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? ²⁰You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22, ²¹Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, ²²set His seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

2 Corinthians 5:1-10, ¹For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. ²Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, ³because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. ⁴For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. ⁵Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God; who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. ⁶Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. ⁷For we live by faith, and not by sight. ⁸We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. ⁹So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. ¹⁰For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, ,so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

2 Corinthians 6:16, What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.”

Ephesians 1:13-14, ¹³And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, ¹⁴who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of His glory.

Ephesians 2:10, For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Ephesians 2:22, And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit.

Ephesians 5:15-20, ¹⁵Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. ¹⁷Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. ¹⁸Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, ¹⁹speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, ²⁰always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians 1:20-21, ²⁰I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. ²¹For to me, to live is Christ sand to die is gain.

1 Peter 2:24, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by His wounds you have been healed.”

1 Peter 3:1-2, ¹Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, ²when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.

1 John 3:24, The one who keeps God’s commands lives in Him, and He in them. And this is how we know that He lives in us: We know it by the Spirit He gave us.

1 John 4;13-16, ¹³This is how we know that we live in Him and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit. ¹⁴And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. ¹⁵If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. ¹⁶And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 62 – Blessed are the Merciful

May23

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 62

Blessed are the Merciful

Lord, teach me what it means to be merciful. It is a great gift directly from Your hand. You are a merciful and loving Father; You show Your kindness and compassion to Your people from generation to generation. Help me to be a representation of Your mercy.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My blessed child, I created you in My own image; in the image of God, I created you. I am kind and forgiving, compassionate and loving, understanding and merciful. Practice My ways by the power of My Spirit within you. Show kindness and tenderness to everyone. Be willing to forgive, as you, yourself have been forgiven. My compassions are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). Arise each day with a new acceptance of the one you find difficult to love.

I desire genuine devotion, not lip service. Practice My instructions; carry out My commands. Treat others as you want to be treated, with mercy and respect. This may require a change in the way you live. Stop and think before you act or react. Trade in a criticism for a word of kindness. Rather than exercising anger, willingly extend forgiveness. Hold your tongue; it can be a double-edged sword. Speak with words of encouragement and bring peace to a weary soul.

Show mercy and you will be shown mercy (Matthew 5:7). Sow seeds of kindness, and a harvest of kindness you will reap. Practice humility with love. Do not wait to be served, but serve one another in love. Be compassionate to the hurting, helpful to those in need, and generous with your giving. Exercise grace and mercy whenever you have an opportunity. Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8).

Religious activities mean nothing without personal surrender to the Lord. The mouth speaks what the heart is full of (Matthew 12:34). Be full of blessing and understanding. “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6). “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36).

In My great mercy, I have given you new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by My power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:3-5). I have blessed you to be a blessing (Genesis 12:2). Bless others with an attitude of mercy, love, and forgiveness.

Prayer:

Merciful Father in heaven, thank You for Your compassion and grace. You have been so faithful with Your promises and provision. Thank You for Your compassions; they are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). Thank You for Your forgiveness and Your peace. Help me to know the meaning of mercy and to pass that gift along to the undeserving one. Lord, share Your heart with me now as we speak one-on-one. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen

Two-way Conversation with God:

Father God, please remind me of specific ways that You have shown Your mercy to me. (Jot down all the thoughts He gives you.)

Lord, Jesus, show me ways I might be merciful to others; even specific circumstances recently when I could have shown more mercy. (Write down all the ideas He puts in your heart.)

Holy Spirit, empower me with God’s character trait of mercy. Fill my heart with mercy for the one needs to see it from me. Lord, bring that person to my mind right now and give me the opportunity to exercise Your loving mercy to this person. (Record what you hear and any examples of you are given.)

Prayer:

Almighty God, You have made me in Your image. You are a compassionate, merciful Father. Lord, let me be as kind and forgiving as You are, so that I might be a good representation of Your character. Lord, teach me Your ways, and help me to be merciful that I might be shown Your mercy. Lord, help me be slow to anger and quick to forgive. Give me a heart full of mercy, even when I am not shown any. I desire to live in a manner which is pleasing to You. I humbly myself to You, in order to serve You wholeheartedly. Teach me Your ways, and empower me to live them out. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Genesis 12:2-3, ²“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. ³I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

Lamentations 3:22, Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.

Nehemiah 9:17, But You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore You did not desert them.

Nehemiah 9:31, But in Your great mercy, You did not put an end to them or abandon them, for You are a gracious and merciful God.

Psalm 25:6, Remember, LORD, Your great mercy and love, for they are from of old.

Psalm 78:38, Yet He was merciful; He forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them.

Daniel 9:9-10, ⁹The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against Him; ¹⁰we have not obeyed the LORD our God or kept the laws He gave us through His servants the prophets.

Daniel 9:18, Give ear, our God, and hear; open Your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears Your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy.

Hosea 6:6, “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.”

Micah 6:8, He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Zechariah 7:9, This is what the LORD Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.’

Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

Matthew 9:13, “But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Matthew 12:34, “The mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”

Luke 1:50, “His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.”

Luke 6:36, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”

Romans 9:18, Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden.

Ephesians 2:4-10, ⁴But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus., in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by race you have been saved, through faith—and this this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

1 Peter 1:3-5, ³Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, ⁵who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 61 – Neither Hot Nor Cold

May22

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 61

Neither Hot Nor Cold

Dear Father, why do I feel on fire for You at some times, and many other times, I feel almost nothing, even cold-hearted. My fervor for You is like a tide that ebbs and flows. Father, I know that You are not happy with lukewarm devotion to You. Lord, I don’t want my faith to diminish. I want to be passionate for You at all times. How do I keep that fire burning for You? How do I burn hotter and hotter for You?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My blessed child, you have heard Me say, “I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:14-16). You, yourself, know that lukewarm food and drinks of any type are not as pleasing to the palate as either hot or cold ones. So it is with spiritual enthusiasm for Me. I prefer to see you enjoy a passion and eagerness for Me in your service and worship. I don’t want to force you into anything; it is My hope that you would want to spend time with Me in close relationship.

“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with Me” (Revelation 3:19-20). I discipline you because I love you. I am always waiting at the door of your heart. Will you let Me in? When you do, we will enjoy a sweet communion and companionship.

When you allow other things to take first place in your life, ahead of Me, you are at risk of your fire dying out. Anything that you invest more time in than Me, becomes an idol, whether you realize it or not. It doesn’t have to be a statue or a physical image that you hold dearly. It can be anything that you adore and revere more than your relationship with Me. Do not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything I have forbidden. I am a consuming fire, a jealous God (Deuteronomy 4:23-24). I am jealous for your love and devotion. I am jealous for your time and relationship.

To keep an engine running smoothly, you must oil it. To keep a lamp burning brightly, you must supply it with oil. Time spent with Me is the oil that will keep your lamp burning and the lubricant that will keep your engine running. A synthetic oil may promise you longer life, but it is not the real, genuine life-giving source of fuel for your fire. Only when you spend time with Me will you receive the passion for the things that really matter to Me. Be wise and do not run out of oil for your lamp. Keep your lamp burning brightly and your engine running smoothly with oil of gladness and blessing received only in relationship with Me.

When you are in tune with My Spirit and My heart, your passions will align with Mine. I ignite the fire within you, and supply you with the oil to keep it burning. Remain in Me as I remain in you (John 15:4). Remain in daily relationship and conversation with Me, and the oil of passion will continue to fuel your internal fire for Me. I am a consuming fire. I am jealous for you because I love you so much (Deuteronomy 4:24).

Prayer:

Dear Father in heaven, thank You for Your consuming fire and jealousy for me. Would it be that I return that fire for You. Let me be jealous for time with You, as You are jealous for time with me. Lord, I am here with You right now, putting You first, and desiring to know Your heart and will for my life. Set me ablaze with passion for You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Heavenly Father, how do I show You my passion for You? How does that fire for You get ignited? (Record every word and thought He gives you.)

Jesus, You are the light of the world. How do I burn brightly for You? Please help me tap in to the oil of gladness and blessing that will keep my light burning brightly for You. (Write down all the thoughts He impresses on you.)

Holy Spirit, equip me and empower me to put God first in my life. You are the lover of my soul and my life-giver. Expand my time and give me the desire to spend time in relationship with You. What is Your plan for this? (Journal all the words, thoughts, impressions He gives you right now.)

Prayer:

Father God, I don’t want to be a lukewarm Christ follower. Lord, ignite in me the fire of passion for You. Pour into me the oil that keeps my lamp burning brightly for You. Please stoke the fire in me and strengthen the flame as I seek a more intimate relationship with You. Lord, give me the desires of my heart (Psalm 37:4), and help me commit my time to You first. Let me be a well-oiled engine running smoothly in passion and service for You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Exodus 27:20, “Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil of pressed olives for the light so that the lamps may be kept burning.”

Deuteronomy 4:23-24, ²³Be careful not to forget the covenant of the LORD your God that He made with you; do not make for yourselves an idol in the form of anything the LORD your God has forbidden. ²⁴For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.

Psalm 18:28, You, LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.

Matthew 3:11, “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

Matthew 24:12-13, ¹²“Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, ¹³but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”

Matthew 25:1-13, ¹“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. ²Five of them were foolish and five were wise. ³The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. ⁴The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. ⁵The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. ⁶At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet Him!’ ⁷Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. ⁸The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ ⁹‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ ¹⁰But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with Him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. ¹¹Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ ¹²But He replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ ¹³Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”

Luke 3:16, John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

John 15:4-5, ⁴“Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. ⁵I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.”

Hebrews 12:28-29, ²⁸Therfore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire” (See Deuteronomy 4:24).

Revelation 3:14-22, ¹⁴“These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. ¹⁵I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! ¹⁶So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of My mouth. ¹⁷You say, ‘I am rich: I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. ¹⁸I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. ¹⁹Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. ²⁰Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with Me. ²¹To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with My Father on His throne. ²²Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”