Tag Archive | crucified

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 56 – Set Free in Christ

May17

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 56

Set Free in Christ

Lord, what does it mean to be set free in Christ? Sometimes, I still don’t feel free from the power of sin. I want to be free to become all that You created me to be. Lord, how can I claim Your freedom and remain free?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

Child of Mine, when you accepted Christ as your Savior, you became free from the penalty of your sin. Jesus Christ died in your place and paid the wages of your sin (Romans 6:23). You are a new creation in Christ Jesus; the old is gone, the new is here (2 Corinthians 5:17). He has released you from a life of sin. You may now live a life of righteousness through faith in Christ (Philippians 3:9). Christ has made you righteous in My eyes, so that we now may enjoy an intimate relationship. You have the freedom to approach My throne of grace with boldness (Hebrews 4:16).

You were crucified with Christ, so you no longer live, but Christ lives in you. Live by faith in Jesus, who loved you and gave Himself for you (Galatians 2:20). Your old self was crucified with Him, so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with and you would no longer be a slave to sin—you were set free from it (Romans 6:6). You are dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:11). Sin is no longer your master because you are not under the law, but under My grace (Romans 6:14).

You are free from the power of sin. It is for freedom that Christ has set you free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourself be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Galatians 5:1). It is up to you to claim this freedom and walk in the victory over sin that the death of Jesus Christ provided for you. You have the authority of Jesus’ name; you have the power of His Spirit within you. You can overcome the desires of the flesh, by the power and authority I have given you. I will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but I will provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13).

I sent My Son to proclaim good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners (Isaiah 61:1-2). He is the way and the truth and the life (John 14:6). My divine truth has exposed the lies of Satan. The light of My salvation has released you from the bondage of Satan’s lies. Do not believe the lies of the enemy, when you know the truth of God. Walk in the freedom of the truth. Do not make vows and agreements with the devil, when Christ has freed you from the prison of the evil one. Now you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:32, 36). Claim the freedom of the truth and walk in it victoriously.

You are free to become what I created you to be. Allow Jesus to live His life in and through you. Be obedient to whatever He asks you to do. He will demonstrate His love and power through you. Do not be distracted by the world, but focus your attention on Christ. Trust Him to live out His perfect will and plan for you, through you. This happens only when you are walking in close relationship with Him through reading the Bible, praying, and listening to His voice. The most important thing you can do is to put Him first, meet with Him daily, talk to Him and listen to His voice.

I will speak to you in your thoughts and from My Word. The Bible will come alive for you when you tune in to the voice of the Holy Spirit within you. He will remind you of what I say, as well as, reveal and interpret Scripture for you, so you are able to understand My wisdom, My promises, and My will for your life. When you hear and recognize My voice, you experience the life of abundance that Christ came to give you. I want the best for you. I am the best! Be free in Me.

Prayer:

Jesus, my Lord, thank You for dying for me, so that I might live. I submit myself to You and ask that You will live out Your will and plan for me, through me. Allow me to live a life of abundance by clearly hearing Your voice and obeying it. Lord, I am always blessed with so much joy whenever I am obedient to Your requests. Give me the desire to obey Your every command, and connect with You daily in two-way conversation. Lord, speak to me now as we meet to maintain a deeper, more intimate relationship. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Heavenly Father, will you expose one area of my life that I remain in the bondage of sin? Please tell me exactly what I need to be free from in this area. (Record every word you hear in your thoughts. Spend some time now confessing your sin and submitting yourself to God.)

 

  • Jesus, my Savior, please expose one of the enemy’s lies that I have believed or bought in to, and then, set me free with Your truth. (Write down whatever you hear Him say, and claim the freedom He gives you.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, please show me Your plan for me to live in freedom from the sin and bondage I just confessed. Please remind me of the truth in God’s Word and remind me to use it when the enemy attacks me in this area. (Write all the thoughts He gives you on this and record any words or verses from Scripture that come to mind.)

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:

Sovereign Lord, Your plans and timing are perfect. I submit my will to Yours, and ask that You would live Your life in and through me. Help me become the creation You had in mind when You formed me in the womb. Before you knew me, You set me apart (Jeremiah 1:5). I am grateful that You purchased my freedom from sin and continue to release me from the bondage of sin and the prison of lies I have believed over the years. Lord, I give You access to all areas of my heart and ask that You transform my life so that I might become the creation You called me to be. Thank You for the abundant blessing I receive by hearing Your voice and living in relationship with You. I am so grateful for everything You do for me. I am blessed to be dead to sin and alive to God in Christ (Romans 6:11). In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 146:7, He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free.

Isaiah 61:1-3, 1The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, 2to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, 3and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.

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

Luke 4:18-19, 18”The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, 19to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

John 8:31-36, 31To the Jews who had believed Him, Jesus said, “If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. 32Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” 34Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

John 14:6, Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Romans 6:6-14, 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.

Romans 6:17-18, 17But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. 18You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

Romans 6:22-23, 22But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness , and the result is eternal life. 23For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Romans 8:1-2, 1Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.

1 Corinthians 10:13, No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful: He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

2 Corinthians 3:17-18, 17Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Galatians 2:20, I 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.

Galatians 5:1, It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

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.

Philippians 3:7-9, 7But whatever were gains to me I know consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

Colossians 1:19-22, 19For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, 20and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross. 21Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. 22But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation.

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.

Revelation 1:5-6, 5and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood, 6and 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 48 – Where is God?

May9

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 48

Where is God?

Father, sometimes when painful things happen to us, we wonder where You are and why You would allow us to go through our trials, troubles, and challenges. Lord, will you speak to that question for me? Where are You in the midst of our toil, pain, and heartache?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

I am right there with you in the middle of your hardships and your pain. In all your distress, I too am distressed (Isaiah 63:9). I understand what you are going through; I, Myself, have experienced an even greater measure of pain and suffering. Where am I in your suffering? I am where the pain is. I was crushed for your iniquities; the punishment that brought you peace was on Me (Isaiah 53:5). I will never leave you or forsake you (Joshua 1:5).

Oh my child, I know your pain. I know your anger, your anxiety, your frustration, your hurt. Cast all your cares on me. Give over your burdens and exchange them for a lighter load. Be yoked with me and I will carry you through your difficulties. Remain in Me and I will remain in you. Find your peace in knowing that you are following My will and plans. You are doing the right thing. I know you do not understand My ways, but I will work all things together for the good of those who love me and are called according to My purpose (Romans 8:28). You have been called by Me. You do not need to understand it all right now. I am always working behind the scenes to bring about My will, to bring about change in people who are willing to seek Me with their whole heart.

In your trials I carry you (Isaiah 63:9). As you were crucified with Me, you now must daily bear your own cross of suffering (Luke 9:23). You will seek Me and find Me, when you seek Me with your whole heart. Seek Me in Your affliction and you will find Me there. I do not leave you to walk through your valleys alone. I take you by the hand and guide you through the rough terrain and over the mountain peaks. I remove the obstacles that stand in your way. But I do not necessarily remove you from your troubles, or remove your troubles from you. The lessons learned in affliction are often the most valuable teachings that mature your faith to a level that a life of all pleasure would never attain.

Submit yourself to Me. Delight in Me and I will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). I will prosper you, give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). The blessings from your obedience will be passed down from generation to generation of those who love me. Hang in there. Do not be overwhelmed by the magnitude of this trial. I will carry you through. I will walk you through this challenge. There is a mountain of peace and blessing on the other side of this valley. Hold to the truth and the truth will set you free.

I am setting you free from this emotional, physical, and financial burden. I will bless you seven times the cost of this trial. Your reward is from Me. Run for the prize. Do not look back. Do not look side to side in comparison with your brother or sister. Do not let the enemy overtake you and break in or interrupt the race you are running with Me. I am your running mate. Together we will win this race and celebrate the joy of the rewards.

I love you, My child. Keep your head up, your eyes to the sky, and focus on Me, not your troubles. I am here. I will never leave you or forget about you. I will carry you through. You are My friend, My beloved child, the heir of everything that belongs to Me.

Prayer:

Most Holy One, I thank You for Your love and kindness. I am grateful that I am never alone when I remain in relationship with You. Thank You for Your presence in my trials, even when I don’t know it or feel it. I thank You for working in the background to cause the good to come out of every trial I face. Lord, I am secure in the confidence I have that You are in control and You want the best for me. I submit myself to You, and ask that You share Your heart with me now about the challenges I am walking through today. Please help me see Your hand in my life and know Your presence in every situation. In the name of Jesus, my Rescuer, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father, in the challenges I face today, what do You want me to learn from this experience? (Record every thought He gives you.)

 

  • Jesus, my Friend, please show me Your presence and compassion in my pain. Share Your heart for my suffering. (Write down all words and thoughts you hear.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, my Comforter, please ease my cares and share God’s heart for me in this struggle. Why do I need to endure this pain? (Journal what He says to you.)

 

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:

Dear Lord, thank You for being present with me at all times, through every challenge I face, guiding me through the valleys and climbing the mountains with me. I am so grateful for your love and care. Thank You for sharing your heart with me now, and please give me a teachable heart to know and learn more about You and how You take care of me. 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 37:4, Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Isaiah 53:5-6, 5But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed. 6We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 63:9, In all their distress He too was distressed, and the angel of His presence saved them. In His love and mercy He redeemed them; He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.

Luke 9:23, Then He said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me.”

Romans 8:18-21, 18I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. 20For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.

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.

2 Corinthians 4:10-12, 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that His life may also be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in You.

Philippians 3:7-11, 7But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, 11and so somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Hebrews 2:17-18, 17For this reason He had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18Because He Himself suffered when he was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted.

Hebrews 4:14-16, 14Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin. 16Let 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.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 45 – Fully Forgiven

May6

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 45

 Fully Forgiven

Father God in heaven, I have the head knowledge that I am forgiven. I have confessed my sin, invited Jesus into my heart to be my Savior and Lord, and I know that He died for my sins, so that I could experience Your grace and forgiveness through a saving relationship in Christ. But so many times I have held on to past sins. I continue to ask forgiveness for the same sins, when You have already forgiven me and forgotten them, long ago. Lord, how do I completely rid myself of the shame, the guilt, and release the claim to my sins? How do I know that I am fully forgiven? How can I be freed from this burden?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

O child of Mine, you are being harder on yourself than I have been on you. Let Me release you from your burden of guilt and set you free with the truth (John 8:32). When the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36).

Your sin separated you from Me. There was nothing you, yourself can do make that right. It is solely by My amazing grace, and the death of My Son, Jesus Christ, on the cross that you may experience the forgiveness of sins and the hope of eternal life. Accepting Jesus as your Savior, and believing that He died for your sin, is the only way to be reconciled to Me.

When you invited Jesus into your heart to be your Savior, you were crucified with Christ. You no longer live, but Christ lives in you (Galatians 2:20). When your old self was crucified with Him, your former body, ruled by sin was done away with, so that you are no longer a slave to sin—you were set free (Romans 6:6-7). Let Me say it again, “When the Son sets you free, you are free indeed” (John 8:36). Believe it and walk in the freedom I provide.

When I adopted you as My child, I sent the Spirit of My Son, Jesus, into your heart. The Spirit calls out, “Abba Father.” You are no longer a slave, but My child; and since you are My child, I have made you My heir (Galatians 4:6-7). Not only are you fully forgiven, you are fully Mine. You belong to Me, and I love you. I am your loving Abba Father, and you are My sweet child.

You have My assurance that you are fully forgiven. It is up to you to fully believe it and fully accept My forgiveness—all of it. I remember your sins no more, and you would do well to accomplish this also. When you hold onto your sin, you are demonstrating a false belief that Jesus’ work on the cross was all in vain—that His death was not enough. But I tell you, it was. Do not discount the work of Christ on the cross. I gave Him up for you. Please accept that gift fully, and fully believe it.

Do not allow the enemy to keep you in the prison cell of sin and guilt when you have been rescued and redeemed. In Christ, you have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of My grace (Ephesians 1:7). Your sins were completely atoned for and I have washed you whiter than snow (Psalm 51:7). I love you; I died for you; you are My child; and you are forgiven. Receive it and believe it.

Prayer:

Abba Father, thank You for Your gift of grace and forgiveness. I confess that I did not fully accept Your gift. Please forgive me. I believe it and receive it anew. I bind up Satan in the name of Jesus, by His shed blood. I claim victory over sin; I am free. I am a new creation in Christ, the old is gone, the new is here (2 Corinthians 5:17). I am no longer a slave to sin; I am a child of God. Lord, please speak to me more personally right now, and share what’s on Your heart. In the name of Jesus, my Savior, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, tell me what it means to be Your child. (Write down everything you hear: words, phrases, verses, etc.)

 

  • Jesus, lover of my soul, please help me understand more fully, how I was crucified with You on the cross, and how You set me free. (Record the ideas and thoughts He gives you now.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, empower me to discard the old false belief, and fully embrace the truth. What do I need to do to accomplish this? (Journal everything you hear in your head.)

 

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:

Dear Lord, thank You for helping me to better understand what forgiveness means. Thank You for remembering my sins no more; please help me to do the same. Help me fight against the devil when he accuses me of sins that have already been forgiven by You. Help me claim my identity as Your child, and fully accept the forgiveness and the freedom that brings. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Exodus 34:5-7, 5Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed His name, the Lord. 6And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, 7maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.”

Psalm 25:11, For the sake of Your name, Lord, forgive my iniquity, though it is great.

Psalm 51:7, Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

Psalm 86:5, You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to You.

Psalm 130:3-4, 3If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? 4But with You there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve You.

Isaiah 43:25, “I, even I, and He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more.”

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 no more.”

Jeremiah 33:8, “I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against Me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against Me.”

Daniel 9:9, The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against Him.

Matthew 6:14-15, 14“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Matthew 18:21-22, 21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

Matthew 26:27-28, 27Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

Mark 11:25, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

Luke 6:37, 37“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Luke 11:2-4, 2He said to them, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come. 3Give us each day our daily bread. 4Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.’”

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

John 8:34-36, 34Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36So if the Son set you free, you will be free indeed.”

John 20:23, “If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

Acts 2:38, Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Acts 10:43, “All the prophets testify about Him that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name.”

Acts 13:38-39, 38“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. 39Though Him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.”

Romans 6:6-7, 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.

2 Corinthians 2:10-11, 10Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, 11in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.

Galatians 2:20, I 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.

Galatians 4:6-7, 6Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” 7So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are His child, God has made you also an heir.

Ephesians 1:7-10, 7In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8that He lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, 9He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ, 10to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

Ephesians 4:30-32, 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Colossians 1:13-14, 13For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 3:13, Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Hebrews 8:12, “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Hebrews 9:22, In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.

1 John 1:9, If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar and His Word is not in us.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 44 – Confess Your Sin

May5

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 44

Confess Your Sin

Lord, I confess I am sinful, and my sins separate me from You. Lord, I do not want to live a life apart from You. Please forgive my sins, and help me feel the conviction of Your Holy Spirit every time I fall short of Your glory. Father, may I be quick to respond and confess my sin. Holy Spirit, empower me to turn away from temptation and sin; to turn and walk away from it, every time. Lord, sanctify me and make me more like Jesus. Teach me Your ways and fashion me after Your will. Help me to pay attention to Your voice within me; to listen and obey.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

O child of mine, you are not your own; you were bought with a price—the death of My Son, Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Do not feel free to go your own way and continue in rebellion to Me. Partial obedience does not equal obedience. All sin, no matter how small, is disobedience. When you obey Me, I know that you love Me. I will not be anywhere near sin or those who sin. Do not let sin set you apart from Me, but remain in Me with your love and obedience.

All have sinned and fall short of My glory (Romans 3:23). But I loved you so much, while you were still sinners, I sent My Son, Jesus Christ, to die for your sin (Romans 5:8). Death is the required penalty for your sin, but My free gift to you is eternal life (Romans 6:23), when you believe in Me and confess your sin. Confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that I raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved (Romans 10:9-10).

I love you so much, that I gave My one and only Son, Jesus. Whoever believes in Him, shall not die, but experience eternal life (John 3:16). When you confess your sin, I am faithful and just and will forgive you all your sin and purify you (1 John 1:9). When you do sin, you have an Advocate with Me—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for your sins (1 John 2:1-2).

When you confess your sin, then turn and walk away from it. Do not continue in your sinful nature, when you have the Spirit living in you. In Christ, you have crucified the flesh and no longer need to walk in it. But since you now live according to the Spirit, stay in step with the Spirit of God (Galatians 5:24-25). You are a new creation in Jesus Christ, the old is gone, the new is here (2 Corinthians 5:17). Live as the new person you are, claiming your victory in the shed blood of Jesus Christ for you.

When necessary, confess your sins to each other. Seek forgiveness when you have wronged another. You have been forgiven much, therefore, you will be required to forgive as much. Do not be generous with your judgment and stingy with your forgiveness. But forgive one another as you also have been forgiven (Colossians 3:13).

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for providing the Way, Jesus Christ, to be reconciled to you despite all my sin. Thank You for loving me, even though I am sinful, and for giving the gift of Your Son to die in my place. Lord, I am so grateful that I may experience Your grace and forgiveness when I confess my sins to You. Lord, please share Your heart with me in a more personal way right now. What do I need to change? What do You see in me? Please pour into my heart directly from Yours, as deep pours into deep. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

  • Father, please forgive me, for I have sinned. I confess my sin and weakness in this area:______________ (fill in the blank). I ask your forgiveness in the name of Jesus by His blood. Lord, what do You want to share with me about this? (Record all that you hear.)

 

  • Jesus, my atoning sacrificial Lamb of God, thank You for taking away my sin. Please tell me what You want me to know about Your love and Your sacrifice. (Write down every word and thought you receive.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, thank You for Your convicting work in my heart. Please reveal any other layers of sin that need to be confessed regarding this situation. Tell me what I need to do. (Journal everything you hear, think, and feel. Then, be obedient to what He asks you to do.)

 

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:

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I appreciate all that You have done for me. I thank You for working together to accomplish in me the work You have started in me. I am a work in progress, and I am grateful that You are patient with me, every time I fail. Thank You for picking me back up, brushing me off, and setting my feet back on Your firm foundation. Thank You for second chances, and third, and fourth. I love You, and I will do better in the future with Your help. I cannot do any of this on my own. I am completely dependent on You, so I submit myself to You now. I commend my spirit into the hands of Your Spirit and ask that You will carry on Your continual redemptive, renovation work in me. In the name of Jesus, my Redeemer, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 32:5, Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” And You forgave the guilt of my sin.

Psalm 65:3, When we were overwhelmed by sins, You forgave our transgressions.

Jeremiah 15:19, Therefore, this is what the says: “If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve Me; if you utter worthy, not worthless, words, you will be My spokesman. Let this people turn to you, but you must not turn to them.”

Ezekiel 18:30-32, 30“Therefore, you Israelites, I will judge each of you according to your own ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? 32For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!”

Luke 13:3, “I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”

Luke 15:7, “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”

Luke 15:10, “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

John 16:7-11, 7“But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. 8When He comes, He will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9about sin, because people do not believe in Me; 10about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see Me no longer; 11and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.”

Acts 3:18-20, 18But this is how God fulfilled what He had foretold through all the prophets, saying that His Messiah would suffer. 19Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20and that He may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus.

Romans 2:4-8, 4Or do you show contempt for the riches of His kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?  5But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when His righteous judgment will be revealed. 6God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” 7To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, He will give eternal life. 8But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.

Romans 3:23-24, 23For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

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

Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 10:9-10, 9If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 19Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 7:10, Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

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

Colossians 3:13, Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

James 5:16, Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

1 John 1:8-2:2, 1:8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar and His word is not in us. 2:1My dear children, I write this to anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 21 – The Resurrection and the Life 

Apr12

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 21

The Resurrection and the Life 

Happy Easter, Lord! You are risen! Hallelujah! You are the reason for this season! Thank You for providing the way for me to experience a full life here on earth now, and life in heaven with You for all eternity. Thank You for dying for my sins and for Your resurrection to life. Thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit to live in me and give me life! Please share Your heart with me now.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My beloved child, I laid down My life in exchange for yours. I willingly experienced death on the cross as payment for your sin. I died and was buried. However, sin, death and the grave did not defeat Me. I am victorious! On the third day, I was raised according to Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:4). I am risen from the dead! The Father raised Me to life again, and now I live to give life to you through the gift of My Spirit within you. Do not waste this gift.

I did not die in your place, so that you could continue in a sinful lifestyle. Your sinful nature was crucified with Me. You no longer live, but now I live in and through you. The secret to experiencing the full life is to remain with Me in the secret place. Tap into the power of the Spirit by meeting with Me each day. Remain in tune to My voice within as you live out your day. Walk in step with the Spirit, and live a life of abundance.

I am the way and the truth and the life (John 14:6); the light of all mankind (John 1:4-5). No longer shall you remain in darkness and sin, but step into the light, as I am in the light, and the darkness will not overcome you. Remain in My presence, and the light I shine in your heart will give you the light of the knowledge of the glory of God (2 Corinthians 4:6). Meet with Me face to face, and when you depart, the light of My countenance continues to radiate from your face, bringing light for all the world to see and know that you belong to Me.

Be prepared to give an account for the hope which you have in Christ. I give you new birth into a living hope through My resurrection, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade. I keep this inheritance in heaven for you (1 Peter 1:3-4). Whoever believes in Me shall not die but have eternal life (John 3:16). This is the hope you may share with all the world. The anticipation of an eternity with Me in heaven helps you endure this life through good times and bad. Put your confidence in Me. My promises are true. Celebrate the truth of My resurrection. I am risen! I am alive, and I live in you.

I proclaim good news to the poor in spirit. I bind up the brokenhearted and proclaim freedom for those held in spiritual bondage. I release prisoners from darkness and open the eyes of the spiritually blind. I proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and provide comfort those who mourn. I bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. You will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor (Isaiah 61:1-3).

Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). Live a good life and point others to Me. Profess My goodness and let your life be a witness to those who do not yet know Me. Let the light of your hope shine on them and share the gospel of peace. You are My representative of hope, the light of My salvation, and My messenger of good news. Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel (Mark 16:15).

Prayer:

O Lord, my God, You are the Bright Morning Star, the Light of the World, who lights my way in the darkness. I step out of the darkness and into your wonderful light. I leave behind the lies, the bondage, the despair and depression. I break all vows I made with the enemy, and receive the light of truth You proclaim. Thank You for opening my blind eyes and bestowing on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of grief, and the garment of praise instead of despair. I lift off all evil and trauma that held me captive, and receive my freedom with your truth. Your truth has set me free, so I am free indeed (John 8:32). Allow me to hear your voice clearly now as You share more of Your heart with me. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father in heaven, thank You for Your great plan of salvation through Your Son whom You raised from the dead. Lord, please share with me Your plan for me. (Record the thoughts God gives you right now.)

 

  • Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord, please share with me how to experience abundant life here on earth as I wait to experience life eternal with you. (Write down the thoughts and impressions you receive from Christ.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, please share with me Your role in the resurrection and life. Tell me how you impact my life in this area. (Record the ideas you receive 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:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sharing with me Your One and Only Son, Jesus, and the gift of Your Holy Spirit in my heart. I am so blessed that You provided a way to be reconciled with You, so that I might experience a full life here on earth, and a life of eternity with You in heaven. You are the God of all peace, and I put my complete hope and trust in You. I surrender my life to Your plan. Lord, please use me to share Your goodness with others and impact the direction of their lives. Help me lead others to a saving knowledge of Your grace and a relationship with You. Let Your light shine through me. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Isaiah 61:1-3, The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.

Matthew 5:16, In the same way, let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 28:5-7, The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay. The go quickly and tell His disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee, There you will see Him.’ Now I have told you.”

Mark 16:15-16, He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”

Luke 24:33-34, They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.”

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 3:16, For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 8:31-36, To the Jews who had believed Him, Jesus said, “If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

John 10:8-10, “All who have come before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

John 11:25-26, Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in Me will never die. Do you believe this?”

John 14:6, Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.Acts 2:32-33, God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.

Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Corinthians 15:3-6, For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance; that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, He appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.

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.

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.

Philippians 3:10-11, I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

1 Peter 1:3-6, Praise 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, 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 God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.

1 Peter 3:21-22, And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to Him.

James 1:12, Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

1 John 1:1-2, That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.

1 John 5:11-12, And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.

1 John 5:20, We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true. And we are in Him who is true by being in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

Jude :20-21, But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.

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 8 — Forgive Others as I have Forgiven You

Mar30

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 8 

Forgive Others as I have Forgiven You

Dear Lord Jesus, I know You have been so gracious to forgive me, but now you want me to forgive others, even the ones who hurt me so badly? Lord, I cannot do this in my own strength. Please speak to me about this.

 A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

You are my child, one of My chosen people. I have set you apart by cleansing you and making you holy. When you confessed Me as your Savior, I forgave you of all your sins. You became a new creation and died to your former ways (2 Corinthians 5:17). You were crucified with Me (Galatians 2:20), and now you also live with Me as I live in you. Put to death all of your old earthly ways like: anger, rage, jealousy, malice, bad language, and lies (Colossians 3:8). Put on your new self, which is being renewed in the image of God your Creator. Therefore, now be kind, compassionate, humble, gentle, and patient (Colossians 3:12). Follow My example and live as I lived on earth.

 Live in righteousness because you belong to Me. Be tolerant of each other, and forgive each other in all things—even the ones who have hurt you the most. Forgive as you have been forgiven. Your Father in heaven does not hold anything against you. When you confess your sin, God forgives you without question. He keeps no record of your wrongs (Hebrews 8:12). You must do the same. When you forgive someone, forget their misdeeds and shortcomings. Remember them no more. God, in His ultimate grace and mercy, has provided the way to forgiveness. Seek God in order to forgive as you have been forgiven. The Holy Spirit will empower you to exercise the same love, grace, and forgiveness toward others that you have experienced yourself.  Not by power or might, but by My Spirit. 

 The Bible is clear: If you forgive others of their sins, God will forgive you of yours; but if you do not forgive others of their sins, God will not forgive yours (Matthew 6:12-15). Don’t let forgiveness stand in the way of your relationship and communication with God. Knock down the roadblock of an unforgiving spirit and clear the path to connection with the Lord.

 Above all things practice My love. This is the most desirable quality you have to give. Love will forgive a multitude of sins. Love binds all these things together in harmony. Do not love as the world does. Practice My love. Love does not fail (See 1 Corinthians 10:1-8). It is the most excellent way. If you have all these good features, and do not display My love, you are just making a loud noise. You have gained nothing; but when you put on My love to love another person, they will experience God Himself through His image bearer—you. Love as you have been loved. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Prayer:

 Lord, thank You for loving me with the most excellent kind of love and grace. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank you that you do not keep a record of my sins, flaws, shortcomings and misbehavior. Lord, I am so blessed to be Your child. Thank You for adopting me into Your kingdom and sealing my eternity You by Your Holy Spirit. Lord, help me to forgive others as I have been forgiven. Fill me to overflowing with the kind of love and grace I need to accomplish this task. I look forward to hearing more from You right now as we spend some time together alone. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

  •  Hello, Lord, it’s me. What do you want me to know about Your forgiveness? (Write what you hear.)

 

  • Jesus, I owe my life to You. I submit my heart to You and ask that You will share Your heart with me right now. What do you want me to know about You? (Record all words and impressions now.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, what is Your role in forgiveness? How do I tap into this power You offer? (Note His answer to your question.)

  

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 Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, thank You all for Your words and thoughts You gave me as we spoke just now. It means so much to me that I may simply confess my sins and know that I am forgiven and restored to You. Thank You for that privilege as Your child. Thank You for the power You give me to accomplish all that You require of me. I am nothing without You. Thank You for Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Thank You for Your protection and power. I am so blessed to be called Your beloved. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Matthew 6:12-15, “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

 Luke 6:37-38, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

1 Corinthians 10:1-8, If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others. It is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Galatians 2:20, I 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.

Ephesians 4:32, Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Colossians 3:8-10, But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, range, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off our old self with it practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in the knowledge in the image of its Creator.

Colossians 3:12-14, Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Hebrews 8:12, “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved