Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 20 – I am Your Rock and Refuge

Apr11

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 20 – I am Your Rock and Refuge

O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth (Psalm 8:1). You are my Rock and my Refuge, my stronghold in times of trouble (Psalm 9:9). Deliver me now from the hands of my enemies and hide me in the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91). Allow me to find refuge under your wings. Be my shelter and my sanctuary. You are my safe place. I find my rest in You alone.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

O my child, do not fear your momentary troubles. I am with you. I am your Rock and Refuge. I am the stronghold for your life. I am your shelter in the storm; your sanctuary in the chaos. I am your hiding place; under My wings you will find safety. I protect you from your enemies. I fight your battles with the evil one. I stand beside you to strengthen you in the midst of your foes. I clothe you in My battle armor. You will stand firm in the fight. And when you have done everything, you will remain standing (Ephesians 6:10-18).

I hear your pleas and cries for help. I turn My ear to you and quickly rescue you (Psalm 31:2). I will save you from your perils and impending doom. I deliver you from all your troubles (Psalm 34:17). I am your strong tower, a refuge in times of need. I strengthen the weak and weary (Isaiah 40:30). I am a father to the fatherless; a defender of widows (Psalm 68:5). I look after the orphans and women with no husbands. I am your protector and provider.

When danger lies in wait for you, I am with you. Run to Me when you are afraid. Escape into My everlasting arms. I am your refuge, your safe haven. I will rescue you and protect you. I will quiet you with My love. I will delight in you and rejoice over you with singing. You are my sons and daughters. I will take away your punishment and turn back your enemy. You will never again fear harm. I am with you (Zephaniah 3:15-17).

My grace is sufficient for you. When you are weak, you are strong in Me (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). I am your tower of strength, your pillar of power, your Mighty God. I arm you with strength and keep your way secure (2 Samuel 22:33). My ways are perfect and My Word is flawless. When you speak, speak My words; when you serve, serve with my strength (1 Peter 4:11).

 I hear the cry of the righteous; I deliver you from your troubles. I am close to the brokenhearted and save those crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:17). Your troubles may be many, but I deliver you from them all. I protect every bone in your body, and keep you strong for the battle. You are My beloved child, I will not allow you to be overtaken. You will overcome your struggles; your victory is sure in Me. Do not fear, I am with you. I will strengthen you and uphold you (Isaiah 4:10.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, my Rock and my Refuge, I will trust in You and You will deliver me from all my fears and trials. Thank You for being my stronghold and the horn of my salvation. I have nothing to fear. You are my Mighty God, my strong tower, my refuge in the storm. I take my rest in your loving arms, and I draw from Your strength when I am weak. Lord God, speak to me now as we sit together for a while. Calm my fears and prepare me for the battles I face today and in the days to come. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

 Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, how do you strengthen me? Will you share your secrets with me? (Record what He says.)

 

  • Jesus, my Deliverer, please rescue me from the enemy that holds me captive. Set me free with Your perfect truth and Your flawless Word. (Write the truth He reveals to you now.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, teach Me from the heart of God. Instruct me and guide me through the next steps in my journey. Allow me to hear clearly from You right now and every time I turn to You. (Enter the ideas that pop into your mind just now.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Almighty God, my strength and my shield, my warrior and deliverer, in You, I place my trust. You will protect me and strengthen me for all my battles. You rescue me and deliver me from all my troubles. I have nothing to fear when I put my trust in You. You hear my cries and You are faithful to protect me and uphold me. I am so blessed to have the one, true God as my Warrior and my friend. Thank you for speaking Your heart to me today. I will tuck Your truths down into my heart and pull them out again when needed. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Deuteronomy 32:4, He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He.

Deuteronomy 33:27, The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, ‘Destroy them!’

2 Samuel 22:2-3, He said, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent people You save me.”

2 Samuel 22:31-33, “As for God, His way is perfect; The Lord’s word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.”

Psalm 7:1, Lord my God I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me.

Psalm 8:1, Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!

Psalm 9:9, The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 18:1-2, I love You, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 19:14, May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Psalm 31:1-4, In You, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in Your righteousness. Turn Your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock and refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since You are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of Your name lead and guide me. Keep me from the trap that is set for me, for You are my refuge.

Psalm 34:17-20, The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers Him from them all; He protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.

Psalm 46:1, God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Psalm 62:8, Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 68:5, A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling.

Psalm 91:2, I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

Psalm 92:15, “The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.”

Isaiah 26:4, Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord the Lord Himself, is the Rock eternal.

Isaiah 40:28-31, Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Nahum 1:7, The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.

Zephaniah 3:17, The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.

1 Corinthians 10:3-4, They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10, But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Ephesians 6:10-18, Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, an after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.

1 Peter 4:11, If any speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If any serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 19 – Crucified with Christ

Apr10

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 19 – Crucified with Christ

Lord Jesus, Romans 6:6 concludes that I have been crucified with You and I died with You, and if I died with You, then I was raised with You and now live with You. This concept is so difficult for me to grasp. I have suffered nothing compared to the sacrifice You made for me. I do not feel worthy to claim this truth, and yet, if I do not, then You died for nothing! Lord, help me understand the meaning of being crucified with Christ.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My beloved sons and daughters, do not be confused by the concepts in My Word. The simple truth is I died for you. I died once for all the sins of all mankind, past, present, and future. When you invite Me into your heart to be your Savior and Lord, you confess that I am the Son of God, the Lamb of God, who died to take away the sins of the world. You believe in your heart that God raised Me from the dead. When you confess this and believe this, you will be saved. You become My child, and you will spend all eternity with Me.

I died for your sin, in your place, on the cross. So, in essence, your sin died with Me; your old sinful self died with Me. My Word says that you have been crucified with Christ, and you no longer live, but Christ lives in you (Galatians 2:19). But wait, there’s more! Christ did not remain in the grave. God raised Him from the dead! He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father.

Therefore, if you died with Christ, you were raised with Christ. Your old self is gone, your new self is here (2 Corinthians 5:17). You are a new creation in Christ Jesus. Do not spend too much time trying to grasp the depth of this concept. Keep it simple. Sometimes, you need to exercise your faith and simply believe that My Word is true. You have been crucified with Christ, and you no longer live, but Jesus Christ lives in and through you (Galatians 2:19).

Do not give in, then, to the former ways of the flesh. Those old ways were nailed to the cross and died. You are dead to sin and alive to Christ. Live your new life in step with the Spirit of the risen Jesus Christ, whom I have deposited in your heart.

I have reconciled you to Myself, and I remember your sins no more (Jeremiah 31:34). You must forget them also. Do not cling to the past, but live in your present state, alive in Christ and fully forgiven. Accept My forgiveness in full. When you do not accept My forgiveness in full, you do not accept the complete work of Christ on the cross. Now, do as I do, and remember your sins no more. You are fully forgiven; fully accept it and live in the freedom that brings.

Do not hold on to your sinful nature. That was nailed to the cross as well. You now have new life in Jesus. Live for Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and God, Himself, who sanctifies you through and through (1 Thessalonians 5:23). You are holy and righteous because I have bought you with a price and redeemed you (Psalm 103:4). You are Mine.

Prayer:

Father, Your work in me is amazing. Your Spirit in me is right. I am no longer a slave to sin (Romans 6:6), sin is not my master. I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ. Thank You for your gift of saving grace through the death of Jesus Christ my Savior and Lord. I am crucified with Christ, and therefore, I am risen with Him, and He lives in me. Hallelujah! Praise You, Lord. And now will you speak to my heart about this some more. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father, why did You send Your Son, Jesus, to die for me? (Record what God says to you in your thoughts.)

 

  • Jesus, I am so humbled that You would die for me and count me in on the act. I am crucified with You. Please share Your heart with me on this. (Write the words Jesus gives you in your heart and mind.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, empower me to claim this victory over death, sin, and the grave, by the precious blood of Jesus, my risen Savior. Show me my part in this plan. (Note the impressions and thoughts you experience right now.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, You all are so precious to me. Thank You for Your love and work in my life. Thank You for Your favor and Your grace. Thank You for Your unselfish acts. May You be glorified! Thank You for the words and thoughts You gave me just now. I am so blessed to be in relationship with You, to know Your heart and Your thoughts. Let me not take this for granted. You are my personal, living Lord, who lives and reigns in me. Have Your way in me, Lord. Sanctify me through and through, to make me more like You. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 103:2-5, Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all His benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Jeremiah 31:34, “No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins on more.”

Romans 6:5-14, 5For if we have been united with Him in a death like His, we will certainly also be united with Him in a resurrection like His. 6For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—7because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. 8Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him. 9For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, He cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over Him. 10The death He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life He lives, He lives to God. 11In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to Him as an instrument of righteousness. 14For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.

2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them.

Galatians 2:19-21, 19“For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. 20I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 21I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”

Galatians 5:24-25, Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.

2 Thessalonians 2:13, But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.

1 Peter 1:2, who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with His blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.

 Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 18 – Serve One Another in Love

Apr9

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 18

Serve One Another in Love

Lord, how would you have us serve others? Submitting ourselves to one another is a difficult task. You are the Lord of the universe, and yet, You set a serving example for us by washing the disciples’ feet. Lord, do you really require that of us? Furthermore, You submitted Yourself to the Father’s will and died on the cross to pay my sin debt. You laid down Your life in exchange for mine. Thank You, Jesus. You are the ultimate servant leader.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

Serving one another in love fulfills the second greatest commandment under the new covenant: Love your neighbor as yourself. This is second only to the greatest commandment: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. It’s that important to submit to one another in love, as Christ submitted Himself to death on the cross, giving Himself up for His bride, the church. You are able to love, because He first loved you (1 John 4:19).

Don’t get hung up on the words ‘servant’ and ‘submission.’ To submit yourself means to be obedient, surrendering your will to another. I, first, require that you submit yourself to Me. You will be obedient to Me as you submit yourself to another and serve another in love. I am King of kings and Lord of lords, however, I did not come to earth to be served, but to serve. I am a servant King, and I require no less of you.

When you serve another in love, you will be blessed (John 13:17). I modeled serving the Father, as I served My disciples by washing their feet. I humbled Myself and the Father exalted Me. I do not ask you to do more than I, myself, will do.

Perhaps you need to complete a pride inventory. Do you carry pride in your heart? If so, do what you must do to quickly get rid of all pride, haughtiness, and arrogance. Pride is detestable to Me (Proverbs 16:5). Humble yourself and I will exalt you (Matthew 23:12). Those who are greater should become the lesser, and those who rule should become the ones who serve (Luke 22: 26-27). Take up your cross and follow Me (Luke 9:23-24), then follow My example. Whoever loses their life for Me will save it. Let go of your pride.

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy and blameless (Ephesians 5:21-27). Be obedient to Me and submit to one another in love. Lay down your pride and serve one another, as I have served you by the laying down of My life. That is how much I love you.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, thank You for humbling Yourself by leaving Your throne in heaven to take on the flesh of mankind. Thank You for submitting to the Father’s will by laying down Your life for Your bride, the church, to make us spotless, holy, and blameless. I am so grateful that You paid the full debt of My sin, by death on the cross, to make me presentable to my Heavenly Father. Thank you for making the way for me to be reconciled to Him. I appreciate the opportunity You give me to communicate with God as His child and friend. Please allow me to hear Your voice clearly in these few moments I spend with You in the secret place. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, please share Your heart with me; share Your desires for how I can best serve others. (Record all thoughts and ideas He gives you right now.)

 

  • Jesus, my Savior, please help me know Your heart for serving others. Teach me to be willing to follow in Your footsteps and the example You set for me. Please give me ideas of how I can bring glory to You by serving others.

 

  • Holy Spirit, please reveal all the ways I am prideful. I confess the sin of pride in my heart and ask forgiveness. How may I do better in the future of submitting my spirit to Yours? Please give me examples of changes that need to be made in my life to be obedient to Your will of serving others. (Write every thought that the Holy Spirit impresses on you.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

 Dear Lord, thank You for communicating Your heart’s desires of how I might serve You and others in ways that bring glory to Your name. Humble me and help me be reverent and respectful to You by being obedient to Your commands to love and serve one another. Help me to submit to You and to others, the way Jesus submitted Himself to You and Your will. May you receive all the glory, honor, and praise. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Proverbs 6:16-19, There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.

Proverbs 16:5, The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

Matthew 20:26-28, “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

Matthew 23:12, For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Luke 22:26-27, “But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.”

John 13:5…12-17, After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciple’s feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him…When He had finished washing their feet, He put on His clothes and returned to His place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” He asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

Galatians 5:13-14, You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather; serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Ephesians 5:21-27, Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.

Ephesians 6:7-8, Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.

Colossians 3:23-24, Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

James 4:6-8, But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you.

1 John 4:19, We love because He first loved us.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 17 – I am Your Light in the Darkness 

Apr8

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 17 – I am Your Light in the Darkness 

Lord Jesus, in Your Word You say, “I am the light of the world.” Please tell me from Your heart what that means for me.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My beloved child, I am your light in the darkness. I am the light of the world (John 8:12). In Me there is no darkness (1 John 1:5). I am pure and holy, free from all sin and the darkness that surrounds it. I am the brightest of lights. I separate Myself from all darkness and evil, and I turn your darkness into light (2 Samuel 22:29).

I am a lamp unto your feet and a light for your path (Psalm 119:105). When your way is uncertain or not well defined, I provide a light to guide you where you should take your next step. I clear the obstacles from your path and mark out the way in which you should go. I am with you always. You never need to remain in darkness, when you have the light of My presence to direct you.

Light is truth. I shine the light of My truth into the dark places to expose all evil and lies. In your heart, you may believe some lies about yourself and your life that the enemy has introduced to you along the way. Your enemy has a clever way of steering your emotions and actions in a negative direction. It would be good to sit with Me and examine your heart. Allow Me to expose the enemy’s lies and replace them with My good and perfect truth. Allow Me to shine the light of My goodness into the dark places in your heart. My healing and transformation are available to you at all times. I will walk this road with you, even beside you. Know My truth, and the truth will set you free (John 8:32). My light brings freedom from the bondage of Satan’s lies.

I am the way and the truth and the life (John 14:6). I am way that leads you to the Father. I am the light for your path. I am the truth; in Me there is no falsehood. My light shines into the darkness and the darkness scatters. The darkness has not overcome the light (John 1:5). Neither will the darkness overcome you when you are walking in the Light. Remain with Me, and remain in the Light of My presence.

 I am your everlasting light. My light does not wane or fade. My brilliance illumines all the darkness on the earth. My light pierces the darkness and overcomes it. I am the light of the world, and in Me, you also are the light of the world. Let your light shine before others, that all may know Me and follow Me. In doing so, you bring glory to your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16). You are My celestial light. When you meet with Me, My light is reflected in your countenance. Shine brightly for all to see and know that you belong to Me. You are mine.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank You for explaining more of Yourself to me. Thank You for sharing Your light with me and shining Your light into the dark places in my heart and life. Lord, thank You for exposing the enemy’s lies and replacing them with Your good and perfect truth. As I sit with you now, please reveal to me more of Your heart and will for my life. I pray this in the name of Jesus, the Light in my world. Amen.

 Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father in heaven, thank You for being the light that represents purity, holiness, and truth. Please speak to me and share with me how I might tap into this power and live in the light. (Record the thoughts you have right now.)

 

  • Jesus, my everlasting Light, shine brightly into the dark areas of my heart and mind. Expose the lies of the enemy and set me straight with the light of your truth. (Write any thoughts that come to mind.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, my internal Counselor. Please walk me through the healing journey of confronting the lies I have been held captive to. Please set me free with your truth, and I will be free indeed. (Note all truths that you hear in your thoughts.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the light and truth in my life. Thank You for exposing the ways of the enemy, and for revealing the lies I have bought into. I confess that I was a prisoner of these lies, and I release all power the enemy had over me. I make no agreements with the enemy. Satan no longer has a grip on me. I lift off all trauma that was caused by these lies, and I ask You, O God, to transform my heart and mind as I believe the truth You now give me. I know the truth, and the truth sets me free. Halleleuia! Thank You, Jesus. In Your Name, I bind up Satan and all the forces of evil. I claim Your victorious power and the protection of Your shed blood on the cross at Calvary. Be my light and my salvation. I shall have no fear when I trust in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

2 Samuel 22:29, You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.

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

Psalm 27:1, The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 104:2, The Lord wraps Himself in light as with a garment; He stretches out the heavens like a tent.

Psalm 119:105, Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path

Isaiah 2:5, Come, descendants of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the Lord.

Isaiah 9:2, The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

Isaiah 42:16, I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.

Isaiah 60:19-20; The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end.

Matthew 4:16, the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

John 1:4-5, In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John 8:12, When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

John 8:32, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

2 Corinthians 4:6, For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

Ephesians 5:8, For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.

1 John 1:5, This is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you: God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all.

1 Peter 2:9, But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

 

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 16  – I am the Lover of Your Soul

Apr7

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 16  – I am the Lover of Your Soul

Dear God, how is it that You, the Creator and Ruler of the universe, love someone like me? How do I know that you love me for sure? I do not deserve your love. I cannot earn your love. And yet, Your Word says You love me. Why is it that You love me, Lord?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, I am the lover of your soul. I knew you and loved you long before I created you. You are mine. You belong to me. I love you with a deep, unconditional, everlasting love. My love for you will never change. I am the same yesterday, today, forever (Hebrews 13:8). I am love (1 John 4:8).

My love for you is My greatest gift to you. You cannot earn My love. It is a free gift, just like My grace. Every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17). My love defines who you are and whose you are. I demonstrated My love for you in this, while you were still a sinner, I sent My Son, Jesus, to lay down His life for you (Romans 5:8). I loved you then, and I will always love you. I am dependable. You can count on Me to love you into all eternity.

I love you no matter what you do. My love for you is unchanging and consistent. My love is forgiving and forgetting. My love is unfailing and wonderful. Nothing you do will increase or decrease My love for you. You are My beloved child. I love you no matter what. You do not understand the depth of my love for you because you cannot grasp it. It is so much different from any other love you know and feel.

You need not wonder whether I love you and accept you as you are, I do. You are worthy of My love because you are My child. I created you to love you, and ask that you, in turn, love Me with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). If you love Me, you will obey Me, and I will come and make My home in you (John 14:23). I will never leave you or forget about you (Joshua 1:5).

Respond to Me in love. Accept My free gift of love and grace. When you invite Jesus into your heart, I give you another indescribable gift. I send My Holy Spirit to live in your heart. I not only love you, but I live in you. Your body is My temple, My dwelling place (1 Corinthians 3:16). I love you from the inside out. You have a member of the Godhead living in you and loving you at all times. How wonderful is that? I am the lover of your soul, because your soul is My home. I have made My home in you, and I love My home. I love you, My friend. I have loved you before the beginning of time, and I will love you through all eternity. 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your good and perfect love. Help me to grasp the depth of that love as we communicate today. Lord, will you show me Your heart for me as Your child. Lord, help me to know and feel Your presence with me right now as we talk heart to heart. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

  • Father, describe to me what it was like to send Your one and only Son, Jesus, to die for me. (Write the thoughts that come into your mind.)

 

  • Jesus, so great is Your love for me, that You were willing to die in my place, for my sin. Please share Your heart with me about this sacrificial love. (Record any words or impressions that enter your heart.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, You are the gift of God’s love, who dwells in me. Please share with me what You want me to know today. (Jot down all thoughts and senses you experience in your mind and heart.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Dear Jesus, I cannot thank You enough for Your unconditional love and Your sacrificial demonstration of that love on my behalf. Thank You for making a way to be reconciled to God, the Father, and for the gift of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, so that I may communicate with all three members of the godhead any time of the day or night. This is such a spectacular gift. I so appreciate all that You have done for me and continue to do for me. I love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Joshua 1:5, I will never leave you nor forsake you.

Psalm 25:10, All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of His covenant.

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 100:5, For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 86:13, For great is your love toward me; You have delivered me from the depths, from the realm of the dead.

Psalm 108:4, For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

Psalm 117:12 For great is His love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.

Psalm 118:1, Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.

Psalm 136:3, Give thanks to the Lord of lords; His love endures forever.

Psalm 144:2, He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me.

Song of Songs 2:4, Let Him lead me to the banquet hall, and let His banner over me be love.

Isaiah 54:10, “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

Mark 12:30, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

John 14:23, Jesus 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.”

John 15:13-14, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are My friends if you do what I command.”

John 16:27, “No, the Father Himself loves you because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God.”

Romans 5:5, And hope does not put us to shame because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Romans 5:8, God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

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

Ephesians 2:4, But 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.

Ephesians 3:16-19, I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may 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, and to know His love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Hebrews 13:8, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

James 1:17, Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

1 John 3:1, See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

1 John 4:8-10, Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

1 John 4:19, We love because He first loved us.

Revelation 1:5-6, To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father—to Him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 15 – My Peace I Give You

Apr6

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 15 – My Peace I Give You

Dear Jesus, please calm my fears and anxieties. Replace the angst and worry with Your calming reassurance and peace. Help me to know and feel Your perfect peace that passes all understanding. Give me the confidence of knowing You are in control of all things, and You will take care of me and my loved ones. Remind me of Your perfect love and protection. 

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, do not fear, do not be afraid. I am God, and I am in control of all things (Psalm 103:19). I will take care of you and your loved ones. You may depend on Me for all your needs, in all situations. No matter what challenges you face, I will be with you, sustaining you and strengthening you to walk victoriously through your trials. Remain in Me and I will remain in you (John 15:5).

 I am the Prince of Peace. My name is Peace. You have access to My peace at all times through My Spirit within you. The Holy Spirit is My peace I leave with you (John 14:27). Find your tranquility and respite as you remain with Me in the secret place. In the stillness, I will quiet your fears and apprehensions. Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10). I am your refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Trust in Me with all your heart. I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19). Do not doubt My faithfulness; I am true to My promises. Come to Me with your burdens. Lay them at My feet and do not pick them up again. I will carry your burdens for you and give you a lighter load. Take My yoke upon you, for My yoke is easy and My burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30).

 Seek Me in all you do. Submit yourself to Me. Come near to Me and I will come near to you (James 4:7-8). I am your Rock and Refuge (2 Samuel 22:2-3). I am your stronghold in times of trouble. Find your confidence and reassurance in Me. I will shelter you and protect you. I will rescue you and uphold you. You are mine, and I will take care of you. I have your best interests in mind, therefore, you may be at peace in your mind and in your heart. I will be with you always, my beloved one.

Prayer:

 Dear Lord, I confess my lack of faith and trust in You which is evident in my worry and anxiety. I submit myself to You now Lord, and ask that You change my negative thoughts into belief and confidence in Your eternal promises. I thank You for caring for me so completely. You meet all my needs and You give me the desires of my heart. I may trust You with my life because You are faithful and true to Your promises. My heart and mind are at peace when I am with You. You calm all my fears and worries. I cast them on You. Thank You for carrying the weight of my burdens. I am excited to meet with You now and hear more of Your heart for me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

 Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, please describe to me how I may take refuge in You. (Record the thoughts He gives you.)

 

  • Jesus, please share with me how to know and feel Your perfect peace. (Write the words, impressions, and verses that come to mind.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, You are my inner peace. Help me tap into that peace by reminding me of Your work in my soul. (Jot down the thoughts that pop into your mind.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Lord God Almighty, thank You for sharing Your heart with me now. I am so blessed to be able to communicate with You daily and know deeper places of Your heart. Bless me now with Your peace because I am confident in Your power. You are the Sovereign Lord, ruler of all the universe, and I can depend on You for everything. You have my best interests in mind, and you provide for all my needs. There is no need for wasting time in worry. You will take care of me and my loved ones. I have nothing and no one to fear. You are my God, and I am Your beloved child. What an awesome privilege and honor. May You receive all the glory, honor and praise You are due. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

 Numbers 6:24-26, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.”

2 Samuel 22:2-3, The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent people You save me.

Psalm 29:11, The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.

Psalm 46:1-3, God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountain quake with their surging.

Psalm 46:10-11, He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 103:19, The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all.

Proverbs 14:30, A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

Isaiah 9:6, For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 26:3, You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord Himself, is the Rock eternal.

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

Luke 12:22-32, Then Jesus said to His disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have not storeroom or barn; yet God fees them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will He clothe you—you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.”

John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; 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.”

John 15:5, “I 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.”

John 15:7, “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Romans 8:6, The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.

2 Corinthians 13:11, Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:4-7, Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19, And My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:15, Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

2 Thessalonians 3:16, Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

Hebrews 13:20, Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

James 4:7-8, Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you.

 Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 14 – Do Not Fear

Apr5

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 14 – Do Not Fear

Lord God, when times are uncertain and unpredictable, many people, including myself, succumb to fear. Lord, when our world as we know it is shaken and turned upside down, and the future is unsure, what should be our appropriate response? What do we do with our fear of the unknown? Our fear of the worst? Our fear of financial ruin? Our fear of serious illness? Even, our fear of death? Lord, please calm all our fears.

 A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

 Look to the mountains, where does your help come from? Your help comes from Me. I AM the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth. I will not let your foot slip—I watch over you and never sleep (Psalm 121:1-4).

Do not be afraid. I am true to My promises. I keep My word. I am faithful to those who love Me. Trust in Me with all your heart. Do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Me and I will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). No need to fear the unknown, because your Maker knows all things. I will guide you and lead you through the uncertainties. Call on Me; listen to Me and I will direct your next step.

 You fear because you do not know the future, the outcome of your present challenges. I know all things and I will use all things for your good (Romans 8:28). My plans for you are good. I will walk you through your trials. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze (Isaiah 43:1-2). I am your constant companion. I protect you.

 I am your refuge and your fortress. Hide in the shadow of the Almighty; I will cover you and hide you under My wings. My faithfulness will be your shield and your wall of protection. Do not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. No harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your home. I will command My angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. Because you love Me, I will rescue you and protect you. I will be with you in times of trouble. I will deliver you. (See Psalm 91)

 I am your Father, and you are My child. I call you by name. I love you and I will take care of you. Trust in Me, and I will be faithful to My promises. Let My perfect love drive out all your fears (1 John 4:18). I will be with you always, even to the end of the age. Find your shelter and your rest in My capable arms. Do not be afraid. I will never leave you or forget about you (Joshua 1:5). You are Mine.

Prayer:

Faithful Father, thank You that even in the worst of times, I need not fear anything because You love me and take care of me. Thank You for faithfulness and your promises. Thank You for your protection and provision. I am so blessed that You call me Your child, and love me so perfectly. Thank You for calming my fears and reassuring me of Your care and protection. Please speak to me now as we meet for conversation. I long to know the deepest places of Your heart for me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

 Two-way Conversation with God:

  • Father, please remind me of Your love for me. Tell me who I am in You. (Record the words and thoughts that come to your mind as you listen.)

 

  • Jesus, how do You feel about me? What is my identity in You? (Write the thoughts and impressions He gives you.)

  

  • Holy Spirit, please remind me of the Scripture that will calm my fears the most at this time. (Jot down any words or verses that come to mind as you listen.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Dear Lord, thank You for speaking to my heart just now. Thank You for loving me and staying by my side through all my trials and challenges. Thank You for reminders of Your promises in Your Word. Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit dwelling in me. It is a comfort that I can run to You any time of the day or night for calming reassurance. Thank You for Your peace even in the midst of the storm. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

 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.”

Psalm 23:4, Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 27:1, The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 34:4, I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 46:1-3, God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Psalm 91, 1Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3Surely He will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. 7A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. 9If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, 10no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 13You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. 14”Because he loves Me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges My name. 15He will call on Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him. 16With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

Psalm 121:1-4, I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

Psalm 121:7, The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Proverbs 1:32-33, “For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to Me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.”

Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your path straight.

Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”

Isaiah 43:1-2, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

Isaiah 54:14, In righteousness, you will be established. Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to fear. Terror will be far removed; it will not come near you.

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.

1 John 4:18, There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved.

 

 

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 13 – I am Your Champion

Apr4

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 13 – I am Your Champion

Lord Jesus, I am most intrigued by Your title Champion. It is such a positive, powerful description of Your character. The word Champion itself implies Winner, Victor. You are a Winner! You are a Victor! You were victorious over sin, death, and the grave. You came to earth, taking on the flesh of a man, and yet You remained without sin. Spectacular! Lord, please explain to me Your heart for being my Champion. What does that look like to You?

 A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

 I am Yahweh, your warrior God. I am victorious over all things. I win every battle. I love you and care for you so much that I fight your battles for you, on your behalf. I am with you always. I am your Protector, Defender, Guardian, and Advocate.

 I am your Protector. I dress you in my full armor so that when the day of evil comes you will be strong and stand your ground against the devil’s schemes. I protect you from all evil and the evil one. Stand firm with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, the breastplate of righteousness in place and your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Take up the shield of faith and extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit on all occasions. (See Ephesians 6:10-18).

 I am your Defender. I care for you and stand up for you. I defend the weak and powerless. I am the Great Shepherd who cares for His sheep. I defend My sheep against the perils of life. I slay the bear and the wolf. I lay down My life for the sheep (John 10:11) to keep them safe and free from harm. I laid down My life for you because I love you so deeply.

 I am your Guardian. I take care of you. I am concerned about you at all times. I always do what is best for you. I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). I protect you from the snares of the enemy. I stand watch over you in the night hours making sure you remain safe. I never slumber or sleep.

 I am your Advocate. I plead your case day and night before My Father in heaven. I live forever and I live to intercede for you. I am your Great High Priest, seated at the right hand of God. I am the One who saves completely.

 Champion is an all-encompassing word that helps describe the way I feel about you. I love you so much, I want to protect you from all evil. I go before you and behind you. I stand at your side in support of you through all your battles and challenges. I defend your causes and plea your cases. I am your biggest cheerleader, and I care about every aspect of your life.

Prayer:

Dear God, I am humbled again by the greatness of Your love for me. You care about me when no one else does. You watch over me day and night to protect me from all perils. Your eyes are always upon me and Your ears are always attentive to my cry (1 Peter 3:12). Lord, thank You for loving me, caring for me, protecting me, defending me, guarding me, and being my Champion. I am so blessed to be Your child, to be loved by You. I scarce can take it in. Please continue to speak to me now as we spend a few moments together alone. Allow me to clearly hear Your voice and thoughts within me. Eliminate all distractions and help me focus my heart in the direction of Yours. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

 Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Warrior God, help me understand how You fight for me daily. (Record the thoughts He gives you.)

 

  • Jesus, my Good Shepherd, please describe to me how You take care of me as Your sheep. (Write all words and ideas given to you right now.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, my Advocate, intercede for me and give me access to God’s heart for me with regard to a current battle I face. (Record all thoughts and impressions you receive.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, thank You for meeting with me to share more of Your heart with me and for me. I am so grateful for Your omniscience, omnipotence, omnipresence in my life. You know all, control all, and inhabit all. I am so blessed to have You, the Almighty Warrior God, on my side, in my corner. Thank You for Your protection, defense, and intercession. I am eternally grateful that You care for me so completely and thoroughly, meeting all my needs and desires. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

 Supporting Scripture:

Warrior:

Exodus 15:2-3, “The Lord is my strength and defense; He has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt Him. The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is His name.

Jeremiah 20:11, But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior; so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5, For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretention that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

He Protects:

Psalm 32:7, You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance

Psalm 40:11, Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord; may your love and faithfulness always protect me.

Psalm 41:1-3, Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them—they are counted among the blessed in the land—he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness.

Proverbs 2:7-8, He hold success in store for the upright, He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones.

John 10:10-11, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”

John 17:11-15, “I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your name, the name You gave Me, so that they may be one as We are One. While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name You gave Me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled. “I am coming to You now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of My joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one.”

2 Thessalonians 3:3, But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

Ephesians 6:10-18 – Armor of God, Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, an after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

He Defends:

Psalm 82:3-4, Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.

Psalm 119:154, Defend my cause and redeem me; preserve my life according to your promise.

Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”

Jeremiah 50:34, Yet their Redeemer is strong; the Lord Almighty is His name. He will vigorously defend their cause so that He may bring rest to their land, but unrest to those who live in Babylon.

Jeremiah 22:16, “He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know Me?” declares the Lord.

He Guards:

Jeremiah 29:11-14, “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. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.”

1 Peter 3:12, For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.

He Advocates:

Hebrews 7:24-26, But because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them. Such a high priest truly meets our need—One who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 12 – I am Your Bridegroom

Apr3

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 12 – I am Your Bridegroom

Lord of the universe, how is it that I am considered Your bride? To what do I owe this honor, this extravagant pleasure? May I be found ready when you return to rescue me, Your bride. Lord, what does it mean to be Your bride? What do you want me to know about this privilege and calling?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My sister, My bride, you have stolen My heart. My banner over you is love (Song of Songs 4:9). Since before the beginning of time, I have thought of you and loved you. I knew you before I formed you. Before you were born, I set you apart (Jeremiah 1:5). I called you by name. You are My beloved bride and I rejoice over you with singing (Zephaniah 3:17).

 My love for you is so enormous that I was willing to lay down My life for you. A bridegroom should be willing to lay down his life for his bride. I took your place on the cross and paid the death penalty that belonged to you. I did this willingly and obediently, while you were yet a sinner (Romans 5:8). This is the full expression of My deep, unconditional, unending love for you.

 I love you so much, I gave Myself up for you to make you holy, cleansing you by the washing with water through the word, and to present you to Myself as a radiant bride, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless (Ephesians 5:25-26). I look forward to the great wedding of the Lamb. Make every effort to live a life of holiness and righteousness, so that when I come again, I will find you spotless, blameless, and at peace.

Continue to live in step with the Spirit, not giving in to the flesh, but growing in the grace and knowledge of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; living as I would have you live, submitting yourself to Me.

As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will I rejoice over you, My beloved. A bride prepares for days, weeks, months, even years eagerly anticipating her big wedding day, to be united to her bridegroom in holy matrimony. What are you doing in preparation for our big day? Will you be ready for Me? Will you be waiting patiently, working diligently, and eagerly watching for My return?

Yet, by My Spirit, I am already with you always, even to the end of the age. Your heart is My dwelling place. Our spirits are closely intertwined, united in love and devotion. I am your Bridegroom, and I will rejoice over you, My darling.

Prayer:

My Lord and my Master, I am so in love with You. I willingly submit myself to You as Your beloved bride. I will do my best to wait patiently for your second coming. I will work diligently at being a good witness and sharing my testimony of your goodness with those who do not yet know You as their Lord and Savior. I will eagerly watch and be ready for Your return. Thank You for giving Your life in exchange for mine. Please help me to live in step with Your Spirit, so that I may be found spotless, blameless and at peace. Putting my trust in You, gives me the confidence I need to be at peace in any and every situation. Thank You for Your love and devotion to me. May I forever be willing to return the same to You. Will You allow me to hear clearly from You again right now as we meet together in two-way conversation? In the name of Jesus, my Bridegroom, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Lord, the idea of Your being my Bridegroom, gives me a picture of a deeply intimate spiritual relationship with You. Will you describe to me what that looks like to You? What do you desire for relationship with me? (Record all the thoughts the Lord brings to your mind.)

 

  • Jesus, how do I experience an intimate relationship with a spiritual being? I can’t see you or touch you. Many times, I don’t even hear your voice. Lord, what can I do to experience you in a very real and deeper way?

 

  • Lord Jesus, what would You have me do to get ready for Your return and for the wedding of the Lamb?

 

Review the Holy Spirit’s thoughts and impressions you’ve 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, You are the lover of my soul. You loved me before You knew me. You loved me before You created me. You set me apart to be Your bride. I am so humbled by this identification in You. You are my Lover, my Father, my Brother, my Friend. I cannot even grasp the depth of Your love for me. Even in my sin, You loved me so much that You gave Your life for me. Thank You, Jesus, for loving me no matter what. Please forgive my shortcomings and help me live a life more pleasing to You. Soften my spirit to enable me to submit myself fully and totally to You in all areas. There is no fear in love. Your extreme love for me affords me the ability to put my complete trust in You. I have nothing to fear when I remain in You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Song of Songs 4:9-10, “You have stolen my heart, my sister, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace. How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume more than any spice.”

Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart…”

Zephaniah 3:17, “The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.”

Song of Songs 2:4, Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner over me be love.

Isaiah 62:5, “As a young man marries a young woman, so will your Builder marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.”

See Matthew 25:1-13 the parable of the ten virgins – the point is to continually watch for Jesus second coming and remain in a perpetual state of readiness and an eager anticipation of His return should keep us living productively. – The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible, page 1848, NIV).

Romans 5:8, But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

See Ephesians 5:21-33.

Ephesians 5:22, Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.

Ephesians 5:25-26, Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.

Revelation 19:7, Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.

Also see Revelation 21:2, 21:9, 22:17.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 11 – I am Your Paraclete

Apr2

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 11

I am Your Paraclete

Father God, what do You mean by the word Paraclete? What does that mean for me? How does that define our relationship? Give me a glimpse of Your heart. Please teach me Your ways and provide me the knowledge of Your good gifts. Help me to appreciate all that You are to me—my Paraclete.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, I love to teach you My ways. I love to give you the knowledge you need to better understand My heart for you. A Paraclete is a Greek word that means “called beside or alongside to help.” I am your Helper, your Friend, who walks alongside you at all times.

I will remind you that Jesus calls you His friend (see John 15:12-15). He laid down His life for you because He loves you so profoundly. Jesus was the first Paraclete. And when He left the earth, He did not leave you as an orphan. He asked the Father to send another Helper, Advocate, or Paraclete, the Holy Spirit (John 14:16). I am He.

I dwell in you, and walk beside you, as you navigate your life here on earth. I am your deposit guaranteeing your eternal life in heaven. I teach you (John 14:16), and remind you of what Jesus taught (John 14:26). I testify about Jesus (John 15:26), and convict you of your sin (John 16:8).

I am your Advocate. I love you unconditionally at all times. I stick closer to you than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). I prove faithful to My promises. I do not abandon you. I encourage, strengthen, and empower you. I uphold, support, and defend you. I teach you the wisdom of God. I help you interpret the Word of God. I offer you counsel and comfort. I speak the truth in love. I speak to the Father in your defense. I give you spiritual gifts (Galatians 5:22-23). I transform you and empower you to live a life conformed to Jesus Christ. I do all this without your knowledge or recognition. I am your Best Friend. And I desire a more cherished, close, intimate, personal relationship with you. Do you desire to know Me more intimately as well?

Take a walk with Me daily. Walk with Me and talk with Me. Listen to Me. Obey Me. I am your Paraclete, and I have your best interests in mind. Let Me love you with the Father’s love, unconditionally. Let Me love you with the Son’s love, sacrificially. Let Me love you as a Friend, completely. You are My delight.

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, thank You for giving me a picture of who You are to me. Thank You for caring for me so completely. I appreciate all that You are and all that You do. Thank You for remaining at my side and dwelling in my heart. Thank You for being available to me at all times, to counsel me, encourage me, teach me, and empower me. Please enable me to hear from you now as we sit together and talk. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

  • Father, thank You for sending the gift of the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. What do You want me to know about this wonderful benefit? (Write all the thoughts you have right now.)

 

  • Jesus, thank You for being a Friend. Please tell me what that means for me. (Write your insights here.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, thank You for being another Paraclete. Tell me how to best tap in to your works in my life. (Record your thoughts and impression here.)

 

Review the Holy Spirit’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:

Lord, thank you for being a close companion who walks beside me, guiding me through life. It’s a huge comfort knowing that I never walk alone, You are always by my side. I appreciate all that You do for me. I am grateful that I know the God of the universe who is willing to sit with me and speak to me. Thank You for Your words and thoughts I received from You and recorded above. Remind me of these truths whenever they fade from my memory. Lord, I love You with all my heart. Thank You for first loving me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture: 

John 14:15-17, “If you love Me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you will know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.” (emphasis mine)

John 15:12-15, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love as no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business.  Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from My Father I have made known to you.”

John 14:26-27, “But the Counselor, 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. Peace I leave with you; 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.”

John 15:26, “When the Counselor comes, who I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me.”

John 16:7-8, “But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. When He comes, He will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.”

Proverbs 18:24, A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Galatians 5:22-23, But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved