Tag Archive | Spirit of God

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

May5

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 44

Confess Your Sin

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Two-way Conversation with God:

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Prayer:

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 32 – Pray Continually

Apr23

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 32

Pray Continually

Lord, what does it mean to pray continually? Do I need to breathe a prayer all day long to You? How do I work this in to my busy life? What do You require of me and desire from me with regard to prayer?

 A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My darling child, continual conversational prayer is the main way I communicate with you through the Holy Spirit dwelling in you. I desire that you live your life, busy as it is, in an attitude of prayer, talking to Me and listening to Me throughout your day, every day. That means that as you go about your daily activities, make decisions, and plan for your future, you seek Me in prayer. As you practice this more, eventually it will become your first instinct to speak with Me in every situation, not only in trials and challenges.  

Consult with Me to gain the wisdom you need to make all your decisions, large and small. Ask Me for anything, grandiose or miniscule, and it will be yours when you believe you will have what you ask for (James 1:5-6). I want to be involved in every area of your life. I want you to depend on Me for your wisdom, your direction, and your strength.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to Me, and My peace, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and your mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7). I will calm your fears and give you the courage for every battle, the wisdom for every circumstance, the strength for every challenge.

You may be filled with joy always (1 Thessalonians 5:16), because of the confidence you have in knowing that I am God, I am in control, and I will provide for you in all situations. You may be free to give thanks in all situations for the same reason (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving shall become a daily devotion for you as well. Tune in to the Spirit of God within you. Remain in step with Him. The fruit of the Spirit is joy (Galatians 5:22-23). Let others see My joy in you, even in the middle of the storms. Joy comes from the confidence you receive when you place your trust in Me through prayer.

It is possible that you can go about your daily routine maintaining an ongoing conversation with Me. Pay attention to the voice of My Holy Spirit inside you. He will direct your thoughts and prick your memory to remind you to seek Me and speak to Me often. You simply need to be more mindful of My continual presence. I am with you at all times. I hope to hear from you in all circumstances. I desire that you depend on Me for everything. Ask Me for anything in My name and I will do it (John 14:14).

Pray to Me about anything and everything. I hear all your cries, and I answer every one in My perfect way and timing. Whether it’s locating a lost set of keys or making the decision to buy a new home, I am here and ready to answer your pleas for recollection and wisdom. I am for you, not against you. I favor you, I do not disregard you. I am at your side, on your side in all situations. I love you, My child. Will you love Me with all your heart by seeking Me first, before you make your plans and decisions?

When you pray frequently, you sustain the intimate fellowship I desire. You will learn to trust Me more when you continually work on developing a more cherished connection with Me daily. You will see that I am compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness (Exodus 34:16). You will acknowledge I am your Lord, your warrior, your confidante, and your friend. I am your loving Father, and I desire to hear from you and speak to you more regularly throughout your day. I do not forget you; please do not forget me. I love you.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, I give thanks that You are available to speak with all hours of the day and night. Please help me develop the practice of speaking with you more frequently throughout my day. I want to be dependent on You and honor You by putting You first in my life. I also desire a deeper connection and a more intimate relationship with You. That comes only by communicating with you more regularly. Lord, please speak to me specifically right now about how I can accomplish this goal. Please give me ideas that I can work on with You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father in heaven, please speak to me personally about how I might implement this ‘Pray Continually’ attitude. (Record all ideas and thought He gives you.)

 

  • Jesus, share with me how You maintain an attitude of praying continually. How do I accomplish this in my busy life? What do you require of me? (Write the impressions and thoughts you receive.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, please prick my memory all day long to think about communicating with God all day long as I carry out every activity. Help me discern Your voice and Your leading in this area. Please show me how You work in my heart to help me carry out this request. (Journal all you hear in your thoughts right 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, thank You that I can approach Your throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16) with the confidence of knowing that I am Your child and You hear every word I speak. Lord, please help me discern Your voice within and hear every word You speak to me also. Lord, I am so grateful that I can experience a close relationship with You. Help me to maintain this two-way conversation with You that is so life changing and exhilarating. It truly is one way to experience the abundant life Jesus came to give me. Thank You that prayer is one of the ways I can experience intimacy with you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Exodus 34:6-7, 6And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, 7maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness rebellion and sin.”

Deuteronomy 4:7, What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to Him?

Psalm 4:1, Answer me when I call to You, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.

Psalm 6:9, The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.

Psalm 65:2, You who answer prayer, to You all people will come.

Psalm 86:6-7, Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. When I am in distress, I call to You, because You answer me.

Proverbs 15:29, The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.

Mark 11:24, Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

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.”

Galatians 5:22-25, 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, 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.

Philippians 4:6-7, 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

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.

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.

James 1:5-6, 5If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

1 Peter 3:12, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (also Psalm 34:15-16)

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

 

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 31 – Child of God

Apr22

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 31

Child of God

Lord, what does it mean that I am Your child? How have I earned that awesome title? To what do I owe the amazing privilege of being a child of God?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, you have not earned this privilege of being called a child of God. It was given to you when you were created by Me, and when you were reborn again by faith in My Son, Jesus Christ. I knit you together in your mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). I created you because I love you. I know you by name and you have found favor with me (Exodus 33:13).

Before you were born, I set you apart (Jeremiah 1:5) and called you by name (John 10:3). I have lavished My great love on you; you are My blessed child (1 John 3:1). I desire a more cherished relationship with you on a daily basis. You are My child, and I love to spend time with you alone. Will you put Me first and make Me your highest priority?

In Christ Jesus, you are My child through faith (Galatians 3:26). Your sin separated you from Me. However, I provided the way to reconciliation with Me. When you received Christ as your Savior and believed in the risen Jesus Christ as My Son, I gave you the right to become My child, adopted by Me, through faith in Christ (John 1:12-13).

For My Son, Jesus Christ, has said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in My name welcomes Me” (Matthew 18:2-5). Take on the nature of a child of God, a lowly infant who is: dependent, pure, humble, meek, inquisitive, unassuming, obedient, passionate, loving, forgiving, and merciful. Be merciful as I am merciful, love your enemies and do good to them Then your reward will be great and you will be a child of the Most High (Luke 6:35-36).

You no longer need to remain in darkness. I am the light of the world, follow Me and have the light of life! (John 8:12). Believe in the light and walk in the light as children of the light (John 12:35-36). You are the light of the world; do not hide your light or allow the enemy to extinguish it. Let your light shine before others and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).

You are a child of God, and therefore, you are led by the Spirit of God. The Spirit you received when you confessed Jesus as your Savior and Lord brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him you are given the right to cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself testifies with your spirit that you are God’s child. Now if you are His child, then you are His heir—heir of God and co-heir with Christ, if indeed you share in His sufferings in order that you may also share in His glory (Romans 8:14-17).

You are human and you disobey Me occasionally. However, because you are My child, whom I love, I discipline you when you need it, in order that you may share in My holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it (Hebrews 12:10-11). Consider yourself a legitimate child of God, when I love you enough to discipline you in the training of the Lord for a future harvest of righteousness and peace.

My blessed one, being a child of God is a privilege. It is an honor and a freedom. Along with any hardships you endure, you will also experience My favor in life, as My child. I will take care of you and provide for you. I will protect you and shield you. I will rescue you and uphold you. I am your loving Father, the Great Shepherd of His sheep. You are My little lamb that I love dearly.

Prayer:

Father in heaven, thank You so much for creating me, loving me, and adopting me as Your child. I am so blessed to be included as your little lamb in Your sheepfold. Thank You for Your favor as a child of the King. Thank You for your protection and provision. I live to bring You all the glory, honor, and praise You are due. Lord, please share more of Your passions with me right now as we sit in conversation with one another. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, will You now speak to Me personally about my privilege and role as Your child. What do You desire from me? (Record all the words and thoughts He gives you now.)

 

  • Jesus, my Savior and Lord, thank You for providing the way back to God, the Father. Thank You for the many blessings my faith in You affords me. Please tell me what my faith in You offers me as God’s heir, co-heir with You. (Write whatever pops into your mind right now as you listen to His voice.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, help me assume the lowly position as a Your child. May I desire to be led by You in everything I do and say. Teach me how to remain in step with You all throughout my days. (Journal all ideas you hear in your thoughts.)

 

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

Prayer:

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, thank You for Your love and the ability to hear Your voice in my thoughts. Thank You all for the work You have done in my life to bring me into a saving relationship with the Lord, an abundant life on this earth, and an eternity in heaven with You. I am truly blessed to be called a ‘Child of God,’ and I am eternally grateful for this privilege. Spirit please lead me and guide me through this life, so that I may let my light shine for others to see Your goodness and Your grace bringing all the glory to My Father in heaven. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Exodus 33:12-13, 12…You have said, “I know you by name and you have found favor with me.” 13If you are pleased with me, teach me Your ways so I may know You and continue to find favor with You…

Deuteronomy 14:1, You are the children of the Lord your God.

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

Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Matthew 5:14-16, 14“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Matthew 18:2-5, 2He called the little children to Him, and placed the child among them. 3And He said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5And whoever welcomes one such child in My name welcomes Me.”

Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Mark 10:13-16, 13People were bringing little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14When Jesus saw this, He was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16And He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them and blessed them.

Luke 6:35-36, 35But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Luke 18:16-17, 16But Jesus called the children to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

John 1:12-13, 12Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—13children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

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

John 10:2-4, 2The 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 12:35-36, 35Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. Whoever walk in the dark does not know where they are going. 36Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.”

Romans 8:14-17, 14For those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory.

Romans 9:26, and, “In the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people.’ There they will be called ‘children of the living God.’”

Galatians 3:26, So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.

Hebrews 12:7-11, 7Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9Moreoever, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in His holiness. 11No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Step 1 – Expect and Believe – From: 7 Simple Steps to Hearing God’s Voice

Jan4


7 Simple Steps to Hearing God’s Voice: Listening to God Made Easy

By Sindy Nagel

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

Step 1 – Expect and Believe

To hear God’s voice, we must expect and believe we will hear it. In faith, we should not doubt that God speaks to us. James 1:5-7 says,

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord.

DOUBT kept me from hearing God’s voice for the first twenty years after I became a Christian. My skepticism resulted in a lack of spiritual intimacy with Jesus Christ for the first two decades of my life as a believer.

I knew being a Christian meant enjoying a relationship with Jesus Christ. I thought I had one, but I didn’t really consider that it required two-way conversation with Jesus to maintain that closeness.

Unfairly, I talked to God, but I didn’t pause to listen to His response. I never dreamed one of the voices in my head might be the Spirit of God within me.

I didn’t EXPECT that God would ever speak to me, an average person. I knew He spoke to prophets, pastors, missionaries, and other spiritually mature individuals, but I never thought I could hear God’s voice.

However, one evening about eighteen years ago, it all changed for me. I heard a voice in my thoughts that I knew was not my own. It was God! He spoke to me, an average girl. Now I know ordinary people hear from God too. And I know God speaks to all believers, but we don’t always hear Him.

In John 8:47, Jesus says, “He who belongs to God hears what God says.†Jesus said it, so you can believe it! When you belong to God, you will hear Him.

The next verse helped me when I found myself hesitating: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!†(Mark 9:24). To hear God’s voice, we must first believe we will hear it—believe, and then anticipate hearing it.

I attribute my years of doubt to a deficiency in knowing and understanding God. More precisely, I needed to better understand His Holy Spirit within me. It’s absolutely vital we grasp the idea of who the Holy Spirit is in order to expect we will hear God’s voice and believe God speaks to us.

When we invite Jesus Christ into our hearts to be our Savior and Lord, we instantly have the ability to hear God speak because He sends His Spirit to live in our hearts. The Holy Spirit is God’s voice in us.

When Jesus died on the cross, He didn’t stay in the grave. Amen? And He didn’t leave us alone as orphans to fend for ourselves. He gave us a far greater gift—God raised Him from the dead, and He sent the Holy Spirit to live inside the heart of every believer.

Did you hear that fantastic news? Jesus is alive, and the Holy Spirit is the living God who dwells in us and gives us life! We do not place enough value on this gift. It is priceless!

By the Holy Spirit’s power we are able to hear the voice of God within us. Here are a few other things the Holy Spirit does for us:

  • He reveals to us what He knows and hears from God and Jesus. (John 16:13-15)
  • He testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. (See Romans 8:16)
  • He seals us as a deposit, guaranteeing our eternal inheritance until the day of redemption. (See Ephesians 1:13)
  • He is our Counselor. He counsels us in the wisdom of God. (See John 14:16)
  • He is our Comforter who soothes us in times of sorrow, anxiety, and grief. (See 2 Cor. 1:3-4)
  • He is our Teacher. He reminds us of what Jesus said and recalls Scripture to our minds. He properly interprets the Word of God for us. He teaches us the truth. (See John 14:26)
  • He guides us to the truth. (See John 16:13)
  • He ignites our faith. (See John 6:63, Ephesians 3:16-17)
  • He empowers us to overflow with God’s hope. (See Romans 1:13)
  • He teaches us right from wrong according to Scripture.
  • He convicts us concerning sin, encouraging us to confess it and repent, or change our ways. (See John 16:8)
  • He transforms us and encourages us to become exceedingly more Christ-like through the process of sanctification. (See 2 Thessalonians 2:13)
  • He is Immanuel, God with us 24/7. (See Matthew 1:23)
  • He makes the things of God known to us. (See John 16:14)
  • He gives us spiritual gifts from God. (See 1 Corinthians 12:4-11)
  • He empowers us to do the will and work of God. (See Acts 1:8)
  • He is our intercessor, helps us in our weakness. When we do not know what to pray, the Spirit prays for us in accordance with God’s will. (See Romans 8:26-27)

The list goes on and on. The Holy Spirit of God indwelling us meets all our needs. Also, He connects us in relationship to God the Father and Jesus the Son. We know God better and experience more of Jesus through His Spirit within us.

The most astonishing part about all of this is the Holy Spirit is a free gift from God. Have you accepted this free gift?

1 Corinthians 2:12 says, “We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us†(emphasis mine). What a priceless gift it is indeed!

Jesus took our place on the cross. All we have to do is invite Him into our hearts to be our Savior and Lord. When we do, both abundant life here on earth and eternal life with God in heaven are free for the taking. We can have the Spirit of the living God dwell in us without any cost to us. Truly, this is amazing grace!

In John 16:13-15, Jesus explained the main role of the Holy Spirit when He said,

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. He will bring glory to Me by taking from what is Mine and making it known to you. All that belongs to the Father is Mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is Mine and make it known to you (emphasis mine).

God speaks to all of His children through the voice of the Holy Spirit within. He makes known to us all that belongs to God the Father.

We have the living God inside us, so why wouldn’t we be able to hear His voice?

There are at least 7 things that may prevent us: doubt, fear, pride, worry, busyness, disobedience, and an unwillingness to forgive. To be clear, these behaviors won’t necessarily keep God from speaking to us, but they may make us deaf to His voice. Learn more about each of these obstacles in my book, 7 Roadblocks to Hearing God Speak: Removing the Barriers between you and God.

Practicing any or all of the seven behaviors above may cause you to feel the All-Powerful God won’t speak to you because you’re not worthy to hear Him. Truly, despite your flaws and feelings of inadequacy, God continues to pursue you passionately. He doesn’t wait until you are perfect and sin-free to speak to you. If that were the case, none of us would ever hear from Him. Instead, the Holy Spirit helps you become more Christ-like, so it’s imperative you know how to hear and recognize His voice to utilize the promptings and assistance He offers you in the journey of sanctification.

Ironically, listening to the Holy Spirit and hearing from God are vital for identifying and changing or eliminating the seven behaviors causing your deafness to Him.

One of the roadblocks to hearing God’s voice is lack of time or busyness. The next step to hearing God’s voice is making Him your first priority and meeting with Him daily. This practice greatly increases your ability to hear Him speak. Expect to hear His voice. God does speak to you. Believe the truth. God desires an intimate relationship with you through two-way conversation. Now, make the time to listen. You’ll be really glad you did!

 

Click here to order this book now!

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

Book One in Hearing God’s Voice Series

 

The Spirit of God in You

May18

“We know that we live in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit” (1 John 4:13).

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

My dear children, you belong to Me. You, who acknowledge Jesus is My Son, live in Me and I in you. You know I am in you by the Spirit I have given you. You have seen the light. In Me there is no darkness. Now live in the light by the power of My Spirit within you. The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. My Son, Jesus Christ, overcame the world. You, too, have been given the power to overcome the darkness when you believe Jesus is My Son, and you walk by My Spirit.

To walk by My Spirit, you must listen to My still, small voice within you. I speak to you from the depths of your heart. Find a place of solitude and listen intently to hear the voice of My Spirit. I speak to you throughout your day. As a shepherd guides his sheep, so My voice will guide you. You are My sheep, and My sheep know My voice.

I have shown you My great love for you by sending you My Son. My love is made complete in you when you love each other, even as I have loved you. You love because I first loved you. Now show the world My love is in you by keeping My commands and carrying out My will. Let others taste and see My goodness.

You are My light in this dark world. Do not hide yourself, but shine brightly for all to see.

 

Many Scripture references in this text also come from the book of 1 John and John 10.


 

Obedience is Love

Mar20

And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. (2 John 6)

Children of God, I ask you to walk in truth and love—the truth that I am the Father’s Son, Jesus Christ, and the love that the Father has bestowed upon us. True love is this: that we obey the commands of God. I have asked you to love one another, just as I have loved you. Love is obedience. Obedience is love. One does not exist without the other. When you are obedient to His commands, you demonstrate your love for the Father. When you love the Father, you demonstrate your love through your obedience. I love God, therefore, I demonstrated my love with my obedience, even unto death on the cross. Obey God, and walk in His true love. This love is a gift from God above. You cannot manifest this kind of love from any efforts of your own flesh. You must draw on the pure, unadulterated love of God, in order to love another in His grace. Do not be taken in by the kind of love the world offers, but cling to the love that has saved you from your sins. My blood was shed for your atonement. Claim your victory in my name. Live as I live. Love as I love. Demonstrate your love of God by loving one another. Love from the depths of the Spirit of God within you. When you do, your reward will be great.