Tag Archive | delight

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

May27

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 65

Listen to My Voice

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Two-way Conversation with God: 

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

 

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

 

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

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:

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 49 – A Woman After My Own Heart

May10

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 49

A Woman After My Own Heart

Lord, what does it mean to become a woman after Your own heart? Please describe what that looks like. Help me see that woman through Your eyes, and then, teach me how to become her and pursue You more passionately. Give me the desires of my heart, O Lord. I will delight in You.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My darling, I created you for My enjoyment. I desire to have a deeply intimate relationship with you. I want to be involved in all aspects of your life. It pleases Me when you are eager to meet with Me in the secret place, quieting your heart and mind enough to see if I might say something. I speak to you often, whether you hear Me or not. Many times you do not discern My voice from your own thoughts because you do not anticipate that I will speak to you. The first step to hearing My voice is to expect and believe.

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear My voice and open the door, I will come in and eat with you and you with Me (Revelation 3:20). We will enjoy sweet communion and fellowship together. I hear all of your prayers and requests, but I ask that you leave room in the conversation for Me to speak also. I desire to encourage you, uplift you, teach you, guide you, comfort you, give you My wisdom, and pour out My love on you. You may experience all of Me, when you put Me first and daily meet with Me away from the noise and distractions.

Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, was a woman after My own heart. She knew how to honor and please Me by sitting at My feet listening to what I said (Luke 10:38-42). She eagerly waited in anticipation to hear every word that fell from My lips. She did not want to miss one thing I said. She endured the chastisement of her distracted sister, Martha, who was busy with all the preparations. Martha scolded Me to tell Mary to help her, but I would not. Mary had chosen what was better, and I would not take that from her. Mary wanted to hear everything I had to say and remained close to Me in order to hear Me. The way to experience a close relationship with Me is to sit with Me daily and eagerly listen to every word I speak.

Do not merely listen to My voice, but also, obey it. Anyone who loves Me will obey My teaching. My Father will love them, and We will come to them and make Our home with them (John 14:23). Love Me with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). Demonstrate the fullness of your love by listening to Me and obeying Me in the things I teach you. You are My child, even My heir. Everything I have is yours. Ask anything according to My will, and you will have what you asked of Me (1 John 5:14).

You may never be able to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:18-19). But I would love to try to help you grasp it. Let Me fill you to overflowing with My love, beyond your imagination. Know and feel My presence as you sit with Me in two-way conversation.

Will you meet with Me more often? Will you sit at My feet listening to what I say? Do you desire to know what’s on My heart? Will you spend more time in My Word getting to know Me better, so that you can believe My promises and discern My voice? Will you pursue Me as passionately as I have been pursuing you? I created you to love you, My child. I know your inmost being (Psalm 139:13), and I desire that you would know Mine—what makes My heart come alive. Actively chase after Me and become a woman after My own heart.

Prayer:

Abba Father, make these dead bones come alive for you. Renew a steadfast spirit within me (Psalm 51:10). I desire a deeper, more intimate knowledge of You and relationship with You. Please help me establish a practice of meeting with You daily. Let me discern the promptings of Your Spirit within me, and then, obey. I submit my will to Yours, my heart to Yours, my spirit to Yours. Please make Your Word come alive for me as I read it. I want to know You better and hear everything You say. Give me ears to hear You and the heart to obey You. Please make Your home in me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Loving Father, please give me specific ideas, for me personally, on how to establish a regular practice of putting You first, meeting with You. (Write down all the thoughts you receive.)

 

  • Jesus, fill me with Your love that surpasses knowledge. Speak to my heart today. (Record every word and thought He gives you.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, make the things of God known to me (John 16:13). Let me hear Your truth today. (Journal whatever you hear in your heart.)

 

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:

Lord, I thank You for creating me and loving me beyond my imagination—beyond what I can grasp and understand. I desire to know You as well as You know me. I want to know Your heart, listen to Your voice, and carry out Your will and plans. Lord, thank You for speaking to me and sharing Your desires. Help me to remain in relationship with You, even as You remain in me. I want to pursue You as passionately as You pursue me. Give me the desire to honor You and please You by sitting at Your feet listening to every word that falls from Your lips—they are sweeter than honey to my mouth (Psalm 119:103). I love You, Lord, and I want to become a woman after Your own heart. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 51:10-12, 10Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Psalm 119:103, How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

Psalm 139:13-14, 13For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mothers’ womb. 14I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Jeremiah 29:11-14, 11“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. 12Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. 14I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.”

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

Mark 11:22-24, 22“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23“Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea.’ And does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Luke 10:38-42, 38As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to Him. 39She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said. 40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to Him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

John 14:13-14, 13“And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14You may ask Me for anything in My name, and I will do it.”

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

Ephesians 3:16-21, 16I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people; to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, 21to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

1 John 5:14, This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.

Revelation 3:20, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with Me.”

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 33 – Blessed to Be a Blessing

Apr24

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 33

 Blessed to Be a Blessing

Lord, I am so grateful for all that You have blessed me with. How may I be a blessing to others? How might I pay it forward? What is Your plan and purpose for my life. How might I best serve You, bring glory to Your name, and bless Your children in the process?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, I have blessed you to be a blessing. Just as I blessed Abraham (Genesis 12:2) to be a blessing, I have blessed you to be a benefit to others. I have given you much and much will be required of you (Luke 12:48). I have entrusted you with much, so I ask much more of you. Will you prove faithful? It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). Give generously out of the abundance you have received from Me.

You are blessed when you trust in Me (Psalm 40:4). I give you My strength and peace (Psalm 29:11). You are blessed when I discipline you and teach you. I will never reject you or forsake you. (Psalm 94:12-14). Blessed are you when you revere My name and take delight in My commands (Psalm 112:1). Blessed are the ones who seek Me and find My wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 3:13), who seek My instruction and do not disregard it, who listen to Me and find life in My wisdom (Proverbs 8:33-35). My blessings bring wealth without the pain of striving (Proverbs 10:22).

I bless the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those who are persecuted because of righteousness, and those insulted because of Me (Matthew 5:3-11). Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial; that person will receive the crown of life I promise to the one who loves Me (James 1:12). I bless all who call on Me (Romans 10:12). You are blessed in all these things.

I do not bless you so that you may keep it to yourself. Freely you have received; now freely pass along your blessings to others (Matthew 10:8). In the spirit of giving, when you give so much as a cup of cold water to one in need, you will show yourself to be Mine and not lose your reward (Matthew 10:42). Be generous with your gifts; give liberally, as you have received generously from Me. This includes the gifts of love and forgiveness.

Do not be stingy in your giving. You have been blessed with much, you must, in turn, contribute much to the well-being of others. Give food to the poor, and spiritual food to the poor in spirit. Share a meal along with the good news of the gospel. Those who give to the poor will lack nothing (Proverbs 28:27). I consider you pure and faultless when you look after the widow and the orphan (James 1:27). This is a cause I feel strongly about.  

Do not keep to yourself what you have learned in strife. Be a blessing to others by sharing your experiences and what I have taught you. A teacher does not withhold the blessing of experiential learning. Let others learn from your mistakes whenever they are willing to listen. Share your story, the story I have written in your life, as well as, My story of love in the Bible. Be prepared at all times to give an account for the hope which you have in Christ Jesus. Share the message of the gospel and offer the prayer of invitation when the Holy Spirit prompts you. Do not shrink back from My requests. Whenever possible, guide others into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

You have been blessed so richly because of My mercy and grace. Will you now be a blessing to others? Do not store up for yourself treasures on earth, but give generously and store up treasures in heaven where nothing will destroy them (Matthew 6:19-21).

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, I am blessed by You to be a blessing to others. Help me use the gifts given to me by the Spirit to benefit the body of Christ, as well as, those who do not yet know you as their Savior. Lord Jesus, help me to not be stingy with the gifts you have given me. Let me give generously to others as You have given generously to me. Lord, I ask You to give the voice of Your Spirit to me generously now as we meet for a few moments alone. Lord, allow me to hear Your wisdom and direction for my life. Thank You for the blessing of Your Holy Spirit living in me. I pray that I will always pay attention to Your voice in my thoughts. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, will You now remind me of the blessings I have received from You and how You want me to use those to bless others? (Record all the thoughts that flood your mind right now.)

 

  • Jesus, my Savior, will You bring to my mind the face of someone You want me to bless today. Then, show me, Lord, the best way to show Your love to them. Let me see them through Your eyes, and see the real need that will benefit them most. Then, give me the courage to give generously to bring glory and honor to You. (Write down the ideas He gives you.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, may I always be tuned in to Your promptings and Your whispers as You direct me to be a blessing to others. Help me know the means and the extent You desire me to give. Please show me Your will for me today. How may I best use my gifts and resources to bless another? Please be specific. (Journal His words and promptings.)

 

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:

Almighty God, thank You for sharing Your heart for Your children and ways I might show Your goodness and love to others. I pray that out of my abundance I will always give with a cheerful heart and a generous spirit. Thank You for the ideas You have given me on ways I may show Your love to others while blessing them by meeting their need. Lord Jesus, You were the best example of this. Holy Spirit, continue to transform me into the likeness of Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ, who gave the ultimate gift with His death on the cross, I ask all these things. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

Psalm 33:12, Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He chose for His inheritance.

Psalm 40:4, Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.

Psalm 84:4-5, 4Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they are ever praising You. 5Blessed are those whose strength is in You, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.

Psalm 89:15-17, 15Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, Lord. 16They rejoice in Your name all day long; they celebrate Your righteousness. 17For You are their glory and strength, and by Your favor You exalt our horn.

Psalm 94:12-14, 12Blessed is the one You discipline, Lord, the one You teach from Your law; 13You grant them relief from days of trouble, till a pit is dug for the wicked. 14For the Lord will not reject His people; He will never forsake His inheritance.

Psalm 112:1, Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in His commands.

Proverbs 3:13-15, 13Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, 14for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. 15She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.

Proverbs 8:33-35, 33“Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. 34Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. 35For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord.

Proverbs 10:22, The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, without painful toil for it.

Proverbs 28:20, A faithful person will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.

Proverbs 28:27, Those who give to the poor will lack nothing but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.

Isaiah 30:18, Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore He will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!

Matthew 5:3-11, The Beatitudes – He said: 3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Matthew 6:19-21, 19“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves to not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 10:8, “Freely you have received; freely give.”

Matthew 10:42, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones, who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”

Luke 6:38, “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.”

Luke 12:48, “…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. “

Acts 20:35, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Romans 10:12, For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

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.

James 1:27, Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

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

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 5 – I am Your Living Water

Mar27

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 5

I am Your Living Water

Lord Jesus, I am hungry for your love and thirsty for your companionship. Please come and sit with me now, and satisfy my longings. Let my hunger forever be contented by You only, and my thirst forever be fulfilled by Your presence. Jesus, love me with Your words and quench my insatiable cravings. Please pour into me now a fresh filling of Your Living Water, the Holy Spirit.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

From the moment you believed in Me, you have had access to My living water, the Holy Spirit. You may come to Me anytime you are thirsty. When you drink of My living water, you will never thirst. I am the spring of water welling up to eternal life (John 4:14). My living water is the only thing that will satisfy your spiritual thirst. Your needs can be met nowhere else but in Me. Come to Me and drink. Drink freely from the fountain of life.

 I have loved you with an everlasting love. My love is the only remedy for your soul. Your longings can be met only in relationship with Me. I am the medicine for your pain. I am the food for your hunger and the water for your thirst. I am the wisdom for your questions. I am the shelter in your storm. I am your Comforter in times of grief and loss. I am your companion in your hour of need. I will never leave you or forget about you (Joshua 1:5). I am with you always.

 Believe in Me and rivers of living water will flow from within you (John 7:38). Tune in to Me daily. I am the voice of God within you. Take delight in Me and I will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). Commit your way to Me, and I will make firm your steps; I will uphold you (Psalm 37:23-24). Sow your seed in time spent with Me, and I will bring forth a garden of peace and satisfaction in your spirit.

 I am the bounce in your step, the sparkle in your eyes, the joy in your spirit, and the hope in your heart. A life lived apart from Me is no life at all. Spend time with Me each morning. Put your trust in Me, submit yourself to Me, and I will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). I will lead you to springs of living water (Revelation 7:17).  I am the passage through which your spiritual lifeblood flows. I am the living water, flowing from a place of righteousness.

Turn your thoughts to Me. Set your mind on what the Spirit desires and live in accordance to My will. Do not be controlled by the flesh, but let your mind be directed by Me. In this, you will find your life and peace (See Romans 8:5-6). I will teach you all things and remind you of everything Jesus said. I am the gift of Jesus, your inner peace. Do not let your heart be troubled (John 14:26-27). You can be at peace, even in the middle of the storm. Simply tune into My Spirit within.

 You may return to the well of the world time and time again, but your thirst will never be satisfied. Let down your bucket into the well of My Spirit, and I will fill it to overflowing with My living water. I am your confidence. Find your peace and joy in Me and nothing else. Let Me demonstrate My love and faithfulness to you. Drink deeply from My well and find rest for your weary soul. I am your lifeblood. I am your living water, welling up to eternal life in Christ Jesus.

Prayer:

Dear God & Jesus, I thank You for the indescribably awesome gift of Your Holy Spirit living within me. Thank You for the incredible picture of being my living water. I praise You that You offer an easily accessible way that my needs and longings will be met. I will not thirst when I drink deeply from the well of Your living water within my soul. You provide all my needs and desires. Thank You for caring for me so deeply and completely. Let Your living water flow through me right now as I spend a few minutes with You alone. Allow me to hear and recognize Your voice within me as You satisfy my thirst for more and more of You.

 Two-way Conversation with God:

  •  Holy Spirit, what does it mean to me that You exist in me as living water? (Write the first thing that comes to your mind.)

 

  • How does your living water help me in my daily life? (Record the thoughts He give you.)

 

  • Allow me to bask in the river of Your eternal love. Please tell me what You think of me? Lord, what do You want me to hear from you today? (Jot down all words and thoughts that pop into your mind right now.)

 

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:

Dear Holy Spirit of God, I thank You for dwelling in me as a fountain of water welling up to eternal life. You are my living water, the lifeblood that flows through my heart. My life is so much richer because of Your presence in me. Help me fight for the time to spend alone with You. Please daily pour into me a fresh and continuous filling of your living water. Cleanse me and wash me whiter than snow. Satisfy all my longings and give me the desires of my heart. I want to live with a heart for God, allowing the overflow of Your love to burst forth from my inner fountain into the lives of others who are parched and weary. Lord, help me to love myself as You do, so that I may love others with the love You pour into me. Let me be Your fountain of life bringing Your encouragement to another desperately thirsty soul. Thank You for Your love and Your presence in my life. I am eternally grateful for these awesome gifts. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

John 4:10, Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked Him and He would have given you living water.”

John 4:13-14, Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

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.”

John 7:37-39, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in Me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this He meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

Psalm 37:4, Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:23-24, The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

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.

Revelation 7:16-17, “Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat down on them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water.”

Romans 8 – See whole chapter.

Romans 8:5-6, Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.

Romans 8:11, And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you.

John 14:26-27, “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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.”

Revelation 22:17, The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved.

You are a Princess

May9


A woman is standing at the microphone and holding a pen.Beloved one, I have adopted you as My child. You are the daughter of the King—that makes you a Princess. You are precious to Me. Come and sit with Me this morning. Let Me shower you with My love. I will rejoice over you with singing.

 Rest your weary body and find refreshment for your soul. I am all you need. I love you much more than you will ever comprehend. I will take care of you. I never leave you or forget about you. My promises are true. I am trustworthy. You can depend on Me for everything you need.

 Delight yourself in Me, and I will give you the desires of your heart. Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Search for Me, and find Me, when you seek Me with all of your heart. I wait patiently for you to come to Me. Will you make time for Me today? Sit and talk with Me, My love. I have so much to say to you.

 I am your shepherd, and you are My sheep. My sheep know My voice. I speak to you from within your heart. Learn to recognize My voice. Listen to My instruction. Receive My encouragement. Apply My wisdom. Walk with Me daily. Communicate with Me all day long. I am your closest companion. I will walk you through your struggles and rejoice with you in your successes. You belong to Me. I will protect you and provide for all your needs. Find new hope, confidence, and joy in Me. Do not fear, I love you perfectly.


 

A Delicate Balance

Oct1

Body

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, Who is in you, Whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Mind

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2)

Spirit

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (Psalm 51:10-12)

 

My beloved one,

Honor Me with your body—it is My dwelling place. Deep within your inmost being, I make your heart My home. Do not defile your body, it is My holy temple. You are not your own. You have been purchased by My blood; I redeemed you. You belong to Me; therefore, honor Me with your body. You are My child. Put to death the misdeeds of the body and live by the Spirit of the One Who adopted you for all time.  

Renew your mind with My good pleasure. Immerse yourself daily in My Word. Do not be conformed to the ways of this world, but be transformed by Me. Do not believe the lies that originate in the darkness. But listen to the truth spoken by My Spirit. Let Him recreate your thoughts. Bathe yourself in Scripture, using it as your fortress and your defense on the battlefield of your mind.

Your spirit has been linked with mine. Live in step with the Spirit, disregarding the desires of the flesh. Set your mind on what the Spirit desires and deny the impulses of the body. When your body, mind, and spirit all cooperate with My Spirit, He gives life to your mortal body and purifies your depraved mind.

The balance between body, mind, and spirit is delicate and difficult to achieve. Only when you live by My Spirit will you find your equilibrium. Listen to My voice within and submit yourself daily into My care and guidance. I am here to help you succeed. Take My hand and walk with Me. I will see you through your challenges and rejoice with you in your victories. We will overcome.

Let My children, called by My name, delight with Me in the joy of My salvation!


 

I Knit You Together in Your Mother’s Womb

Jun12


A woman is standing at the microphone and holding a pen.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalm 139:13-14)

My darling daughter, I knew you before I created you in your mother’s womb. I ordained all of your days before one of them came to be. You are my beautiful creation, made in my likeness. Let your light shine, as my light shines through you. Raise your hands to the heavens in praise of my holy name. You are my child. I love you beyond measure. Lift your eyes toward the skies and watch me smile down upon you. You are my precious one. I call you by name, you are my own.

Spend time with me today, and I will shower you with my love an affection. Listen to my voice, my wisdom will direct your paths. Search for me as hidden treasure. Seek me and find me when you look for me with all your heart. I am with you always. I have never stopped pursuing you. Make time for me in your day. I am your strength and peace. I am your comfort and joy. Know me and experience the life I have planned for you. You are the child I delight in. I celebrate your birth today! Happy Birthday, my love.


 

Daughter of the King

Apr11


A woman is standing at the microphone and holding a pen.“Then you will know that I, the Lord your God, dwell in Zion, my holy hill.†(Joel 3:17)

Sing, O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel. Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O Daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away your punishment, he has turned back your enemy. The Lord, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm. On that day they will say to Jerusalem, “Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. 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.†(Zephaniah 3:14-17)

You are my Daughter of Zion. As I dwell in Zion, I also dwell in you. I live in your heart. Be glad and rejoice, for I am with you. I take great delight in you. I rejoice over you in song. You are my child. I have adopted you as my own daughter. You are the Daughter of Zion, the Daughter of the King, my precious princess, the beautiful bride of Christ. You are mine. You belong to me.

Do not fear, I am with you always. Rejoice in the one who has saved you. Lift your hands in praise to the King. I am the one true God, and you have access to me at all times. Seek me within your own heart and you will find me. Listen to my voice from within. I will not lead you astray. Let me direct your paths. I have marked out the best way for you to go. Follow me, and I will lead you beside still waters. I will restore your soul. Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of the King! Your God is with you, he dwells in you.