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Power to Grasp the Love of Christ

Aug13

Ephesians 3:14-21

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

A message from God’s heart to yours:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Pursuing the Heart of God Series – Book 1


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

May23

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 62

Blessed are the Merciful

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Two-way Conversation with God: 

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

 

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

 

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

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 60 – Spiritual Growth

May21

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 60

Spiritual Growth

Heavenly Father, you have saved me and called me to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Teach me the best ways to mature in You, grow in my faith, and bear much fruit for Your glory. I am wholly Yours. Transform me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ, so I may live a life that pleases You.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My faithful child, you have already been given everything you need to become like Jesus Christ in every way. The One who saved you and gave you His spirit is able to teach you how to live a life that pleases Me. You have been given a new life in Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). All things are possible through Him who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13).

It is up to you to tap in to that divine power in Christ Jesus. Allow Jesus to live His life in and through you. Abandon sin, and rely on the life giving power of Jesus Christ; make Him the Lord of your life. Read God’s Word and listen for His voice within you. He will guide you on an exciting journey of faith and adventure in Him. Grow and mature in your relationship with the Lord by spending time in His Word and obeying the instructions you hear from His lips. Grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Grow in relationship with Me and become even more fruitful.

My divine power gives you everything you need for a godly life through your knowledge of Him who called you by His own glory and goodness (2 Peter 1:3). Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:5-8).

Listen to the voice of My Spirit within. I will teach you everything you need to know to live a godly life. It’s up to you to practice what I teach you. Stay true to the quality of character modeled for you in Christ. I predestined you to be conformed to the image of My Son (Romans 8:29) and reflect My glory in ever increasing measure.

This is how you know that you live in Him and He in you: He has given you of His Spirit (1 John 4:13). Remain in Me, as I also remain in you (John 15:4). Talk to Me, listen to Me, obey Me, read My Word, pay attention to My Spirit within, and walk in the Spirit rather than the flesh. Grow in your knowledge of Me, and allow the Spirit to transform you into My likeness. All these things contribute to your spiritual growth. Remain in Me and the Spirit will produce His fruit in your character. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing (John 15:5). Your spiritual growth is achieved by remaining in relationship with My Spirit. Grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ and His Spirit, and you grow in Me at the same time. It pleases Me very much.

Prayer:

Almighty God, full of grace and mercy, pour out Your love on me today. Allow me to hear Your voice and see glimpses of Your heart for me. Father, show me the stagnant areas in my faith, and help me grow in the grace and knowledge of You. You are my King and the object of my affection. I submit my heart and my will to You, and ask that Your Spirit transform me into the likeness of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, let my life be a fragrant offering daily unto You. Speak to me now as we meet in conversation. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father, in what areas has my faith lacked growth? (Record what you hear.)

 

  • Jesus, my Friend, what areas of my character does the Spirit need to transform to make me more like you? (Write down all the thoughts He gives you.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, how do you transform me? How do you make me more like Jesus? (Journal all the ideas He gives 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:

Father God, I never want to remain stagnant in my faith. Help me to grow in the image of Christ through the transforming power of Your Spirit. I understand that challenges and trials may produce the most concentrated growth in my spirit. I submit myself to Your leading to transform me however you see fit. I trust that You walk with me in all circumstances and teach me Your ways. Lord, refine me and make me like gold, pure gold (Zechariah 13:9). In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Zechariah 13:9, “This third I will put into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on My name and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.’”

John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.”

Romans 8:28-30, 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. 29For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified.

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

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

2 Peter 1:2-12, 2Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. 4Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. 10Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have.

2 Peter 3:18, Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

1 John 4:13, This is how we know that we live in Him and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 59 – Fruit of the Spirit

May20

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 59

Fruit of the Spirit

Lord, displaying the fruit of the Spirit seems a goal too difficult to continually attain. How do I become a fruit-bearing Christian? How do I maintain a life of fruitfulness in You? Lord, may You be known by the fruit of the Spirit displayed in me. I want to serve You and bring You glory all the days of my life. Let me be known as Your disciple by Your good fruit in me.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My sweet child, I desire a close relationship with you. When you remain continually connected to Me, My Spirit produces His good fruit in you. You cannot yield the fruit of the Spirit on your own. You must submit yourself to the purifying work of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit produces choice fruit in you; it is not the result of your own doing. Be the bearer of good fruit by walking in step with the Spirit, rather than striving in the flesh. Depend on Me and be sensitive to the promptings of the Spirit within.

The Holy Spirit is continually sanctifying you; daily He transforms you into the image of Christ Jesus. Surrender your will to Him. Pay attention to His voice. Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). Crucify the flesh with its passions and desires and live by the Spirit keeping in step with Him at all times (Galatians 5:23). When you do this, you will be recognized by your fruit (Matthew 12:33). Every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit (Matthew 7:17).You are a good tree when you remain rooted in Me.

Meditate on My Word day and night and you will be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever you do will prosper (Psalm 1:2-3). Blessed are you when you trust in the Lord, and put your confidence in Him. You will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit (Jeremiah 17:7-8).

You are known to be My disciple, when you display the fruit of the Spirit in both your words and deeds. Stay tuned in to My Spirit. When you remain in relationship with Me, you will experience My love, joy, and peace. The seed I sow in you will reap a harvest of fruitfulness in you for others to taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8). When you, yourself, have experienced My patience, kindness, and goodness, you can’t help but display it and share it with others. Surrender to the control of My Spirit and clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another as the Lord has forgiven you. Let your love bind all these virtues together and let peace rule in your heart (Colossians 3:12-15).

“Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:4-5). “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in My name the Father will give you. This is My command: Love each other” (John 15:16-17) Be transformed by My Spirit as you live in step with Him, and you will bear fruit that will last.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, I do want to glorify Your holy name. I ask that Your Spirit purify me and transform me into the image of Jesus Christ. I pray that I could remain in an intimate relationship with You, walking in step with the Spirit, so that I will become a good tree that produces choice fruit. Holy Spirit, I submit myself to Your transforming power, so that I will blossom. Mature those blossoms into vine-ripened fruit. Let me remain in the vine right now as we speak face to face in quiet conversation. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, please share from Your heart what I need to improve on with regard to maintaining a more cherished relationship with You. (Write whatever you hear Him say.)

 

  • Jesus, my Friend, You are the vine, I am the branch. How do I bear fruit that will last? What is my part in this command? (Record everything Christ says to you in your thoughts.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, help me stay in step with You. Allow me to hear Your voice clearly. What am I missing? What must I do to remain in step with You? (Journal your thoughts and the impressions He gives you now.)

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:

Most High God, You have laid down Your life for me. I want to honor You, by laying down the desires of the flesh, and picking up my cross daily to follow You. I submit my will to Yours and ask that You empower me to live a fruitful life when I remain in close relationship with You. As I read and meditate on Your Word, let me be like a tree planted by streams of water. Let me bear fruit in its season. I will remain in You as You remain in me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 1:1-3, 1Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night. 3That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

Psalm 34:8, Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.

Proverbs 11:30, The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.

Jeremiah 17:7-8, 7“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. 8They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heart comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

Matthew 7:17-20, 17“Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown in to the fire. 20Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”

Matthew 12:33, “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.”

Luke 3:9, The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”

John 15:4-17, 4“Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. 5I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing. 6If you do not remain in Me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. 9As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. 10If you keep my commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commands and remain in His love. 11I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be compete. 12My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14You 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. 16You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in My name the Father will give you. 17This is My command: Love each other.”

Galatians 5:16-17, 16So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.

Galatians 5:22-26, 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 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. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Colossians 1:9-14, 9For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of His holy people in the kingdom of light. 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 3:12-15, 12Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And 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. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 29 – For the Good of Those Who Love Me

Apr20

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 29

For the Good of Those Who Love Me

Lord, we know that even Christ followers are not free from personal struggles, challenges, trials, and disappointments. At times You allow us to experience difficulties in order to grow us in our faith and fortify our relationship with You. It is during these times, that we come to the end of ourselves and have no place else to turn, but to You. Thank You that You wait patiently for us to seek You and depend on You. When we seek You in the middle of the hardships, You strengthen our faith and increase our trust in You. We have the awesome promise that You will use all these trials, challenges, and disappointments for our good. Your love and grace are truly amazing!

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, when you face difficulties in this life, rather than falling away from Me, run toward Me. Stay firm in the faith and put your trust in Me. Though you face opposition and obstacles, I am teaching you persistent determination. Do not be too eager for immediate resolution to your problems. Allow Me to do My work in My perfect timing and bring about the best for all concerned. In the process, I will teach you abiding hope and perseverance that will get you through anything you may face in the future as well.

Adversity may reveal a hidden sin in your life. Do not run ahead hoping to speed your way through this hardship. Take a step back and pay attention to the conviction of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8). When necessary, confess your sin and turn away from it. Do not return to the ways of the flesh. You are a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). Do not default to your old nature. Allow the God of peace to sanctify you through the work of the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). Allow your adversity to be a bridge to a more meaningful relationship with Me.

Cast all your anxiety on Me. I care for you. Be alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing similar sufferings. After you have suffered a little while, I, Myself will restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. All power is Mine for ever and ever (1 Peter 5:7-11).

 Child of Mine, My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). I know all things, and I will work all things together for the good of those who love Me, who have been called according to My purpose (Romans 8:28). Allow Me the room to move in your life in My ideal timing. Be strong and take heart, wait upon Me (Psalm 27:14). Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer (Romans 12:12). Be joyful in the confidence of knowing I am in control. Endure your suffering with forbearance. Always persevere in a continual posture of prayer. Give thanks in all things, at all times (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

I will allow this adversity only as long as it takes to accomplish My purpose in you. I will not leave you in it any longer than is necessary. You may have troubles, but I will deliver you from them all (Psalm 34:19). My purpose is fulfilled in you as you mature in your faith through your trials. When I have your attention, your heart is softened to spending time with Me. You are being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:29), as you persevere in your trials. You are being molded and shaped through the heartaches and pain, learning to be more dependent on Me, and being prepared to serve where I need you most. I desire your devotion to a deeper connection with Me. I love you, My friend, and I want to spend more time with you.

Prayer:

Almighty God, I praise You Father because You are the all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present God. You know what is best for every person and every situation and You will and work all things together for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28). Lord, I thank You that You created me, love me, care for me, and prepare me for the purpose You created me for. Thank You for the difficulties You allow that mature me into the person You need me to be to carry out Your purpose and Your plan. Please walk me through each challenge and teach me everything I need to know. Lord, speak to me now, as I meet with You alone. Share Your heart with me in a more personal way.

Two-way Conversation with God:

  • Father in heaven, You know the current difficulties I face, specifically _____________ (fill in the blank). Please speak to me about this situation, Lord. What is it that you want me to learn from this trial? (Record whatever thoughts come your way.)

 

  • Jesus, what is my responsibility in this circumstance I named above? What should I be doing? What will help me and my faith to mature the most as I wait patiently for this current affliction to be over? (Write down all thoughts that enter your mind.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, please show me how You are sanctifying me, making me more like Jesus, during this current trial. Help me to see myself through Your eyes. What do I need to change? How can I respond most favorably to this challenge? (Journal your thoughts and Scripture that comes to mind.)

 

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

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, my Prince of Peace, allow Your perfect peace to flow through my body, mind, and spirit. Help me to be confident in Your omnipotence, Your faithfulness, and Your grace, so that I can weather this storm and still remain at peace in the middle of it, knowing that You will see me through it. You alone can calm the wind and the waves and push back the clouds to reveal the sunshine again. I look forward to the rainbow at the end of this storm. May I humbly receive the instruction from Your lips which encourages the growth I need in my faith to withstand all the tests of time. Help me persevere in patience as I wait on You for the outcome of these momentary troubles. Thank You for sharing Your heart with me today. I wait on You, Lord, for clarity in my next step and for Your deliverance. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 27:14, Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Psalm 34:6, This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles.”

Psalm 34:19, The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.

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

Psalm 138:7, Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You preserve my life.

Isaiah 55:8-9, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

John 16:7-11, 7“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. 8When He comes, He will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: 9in regard to sin, because men do not believe in Me; 10in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see Me no longer; 11and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.”

Romans 8:28-30, 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. 29For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified.

Romans 12:12, Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

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

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, 16Rejoice always, 17pray continually, 18give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

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.

James 1:2-4, 2Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

1 Peter 1: 6-7, 6In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

1 Peter 5:7-11, 7Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. 8Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around looking for someone to devour. 9Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. 11To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

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

Working in You

May15


In all my prayers for you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:4-6)

Mountain Grandeur A woman is standing at the microphone and holding a pen.© Greg Olsen. Used with Permission. For more information visit, www.GregOlsen.com 

My precious child, I created you for a purpose, and I have begun a good work in you. I will continue to work in you and through you until the day Christ returns. You were made in my image from day one, and now that you have been reconciled to me through Christ, the Holy Spirit dwelling in you continues to transform you into my likeness. May you be filled with the fruit of righteousness, remaining pure and blameless until the day of Christ. Whatever you do, do it to the glory of God. Let your countenance and your actions reflect my love in all situations. You are my ambassadors of love. Let the world see who lives in you. Love out loud, sharing the message of the gospel wherever life takes you. Bring others to me as they see you walking out your faith. You are my beloved one. Be my warrior, courageous and fearless, as you fight for the souls that are lost. Let the joy of Christ in your heart overflow, touching every one you meet. I have blessed you to be a blessing to others. Go and bless my world.

 

You Created Me–I am Yours

Apr8


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)

O Lord, my Lord, you saw me before you created me. You knit me together in my mother’s womb. You ordained all of my days before one of them came to be. You know my heart, O God. Before a word is on my tongue, you know it completely. Lord, replace my words with your words. Speak through me. I am your instrument of love. Play me as a harp making sweet, pleasing melodies. I am your megaphone. Let me magnify your name, praising you before all nations. Let the words that flow from my lips be a fragrant offering to you, my Lord. May all who hear me, respond in praise to you.

I delight myself in you, my King. I am fearfully and wonderfully made in your image. You live in me and mold me into your likeness day after day. You have refined me like silver and tested me like gold. I belong to you, O Lord. I will glorify your name and lift your name high above the earth. I raise my hands to the heavens in honor of you. You have adopted me as your own. You are my God and Father, my Creator and Sustainer, my Rock and Redeemer. You rule and reign over heaven and earth. Please rule and reign in me, my King. My heart is yours; my tongue is yours; my will is yours. I surrender myself to you. Use me for your glory today and every day. I love you with all my heart.

My child, I saw you before I created the world. I designed you and formed you in your mother’s womb. I laid out your days before you were born. I know your heart and mind. I am familiar with your ways and know the words on your tongue before they are uttered. I will use you to glorify my name in all the earth. You have surrendered yourself to me. You are like putty in my hands. I am the potter; you are the clay. I will mold you and make you after my will. Daily give yourself into my hands, and I will lead you on the path I have marked out for you. Honor me in all you do and say.

Your heart is safe with me. I will guard it against all evil. Be true to me and remain in me, and I will remain in you. I am your God and Father, your Creator and Sustainer, your Rock and Redeemer. I have freed you from your prison. I rebuilt you and refined you to carry out my plans. I am with you always. Be strong and courageous. I go with you wherever I send you. I shadow you in the wings of my protection. You are mine. Nothing will take you over on my watch. I never sleep, nor slumber. You are always on my mind and in my heart, as surely as I live in yours. You are my darling daughter. I love you beyond your comprehension.

Precious in His Sight

May14

My dear child, you are precious. I love you more that you will ever comprehend. You are the crown of my creation. I am your Father; you are my darling daughter. I am the King; that makes you a princess. You are royalty in my kingdom here on earth.

You are made in my image. You are stunningly beautiful. You radiate the brilliance of my light in your eyes and in your smile. You give generously to others with your time and devotion. You love and nurture all those around you. You exhaust yourself meeting the needs of others. You empty yourself to fill another.

Come to me, my child. Let me lavish you with my love. Bask in knowledge that I love you more than you understand. Come to me and let me refresh your weary soul. Spend time with me alone, and I will rejuvenate your spirit. I will energize you with my presence and my word. Sit quietly with me, and listen to my voice.

I love spending time with you. Please take time to meet with me away from the noise and distractions of your busy life. Draw on my peace. It is available to you at all times.  I am the Prince of Peace, and my Spirit lives in your heart. You have access to my peace whenever you need it. Be still and know me more intimately.

You are my child; I am your Father. I am with you always. I will never leave you or forget about you. I care for you immensely. Drink deeply from  the well of my love. Drink until your thirsty soul is satisfied.  Make time for me. I am your daddy. Let me hold you in my arms. I will rejoice over you with singing and quiet you with my love. My love for you is so great that I gave the life of my Son for you. Will you now give your life to me? Live in the abundance that I have come to give you. Seek me and you will find me. I am right here waiting to connect with you. Listen to my voice and live the life I intended for you. I love you, my child.