Tag Archive | strength

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 64 – The Secret Place

May26

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 64

The Secret Place

Lord, what exactly to you mean by ‘the secret place’?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My darling child, the secret place is simply the place you and I meet alone, away from crowds, noise, and distractions. The meeting place may be a room in your home, a secluded garden, a mountain top, or a jail cell. The ‘secret’ is you and I alone together. This may happen anywhere you are, anytime of the day or night. The secret place is a special place in your heart that you and I connect and communicate.

I have said, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:5-6). “But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:17-18). Prayer and fasting done in secret will be rewarded. Anything done in the secret place with Me will be My gift to you.

Go to the secret place when you pray. Go to the secret place to seek Me and find Me. Go to the secret place to hear My voice and know My thoughts. Go to the secret place to discern My will. Go to the secret place to acquire My wisdom and My strength. Go to the secret place to find My peace in the middle of chaos. Go to the secret place to experience My love and joy.

My desire is that you frequent the secret place at least daily; My preference is that you and I meet there throughout the day. I am always waiting for you in the secret place. Seek Me at all times; I am here. Believe it! You may find Me and hear Me speak to you any time you will make the time to listen; any time you will quiet your heart enough to hear My still, small voice.

Run to the secret place for a word of encouragement. Hide in the secret place and experience My protection. Walk with Me in the secret place; I will share My heart with you. Eat with Me in the secret place; I have a feast prepared for you. Let My Spirit refresh your soul in the secret place. It is no secret that I love you, and I desire to spend time alone with you, one-on-one, in secret. See you there soon!

Prayer:

Father, I am going in to the secret place right now to be with You, and You have been here waiting for me. It feels so good and so peaceful spending time here alone with You. Thank You for dwelling in my heart, so that I may meet with You any time of the day or night. It is such a gift to hear Your voice and discover Your thoughts. Please share more with me right now. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Abba Father, what do You want me to know about this secret place that You and I meet? What do You want me to know about our relationship? (Write every thought you have and word you hear.)

 

  • Jesus, my brother, is our relationship the same as my relationship with the Father? What do You want me to know and hear about the relationship You and I share? (Record all your thoughts, feelings, and ideas.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, thank You for dwelling in the secret place. Help me to make time to be there more regularly. You are always there waiting for me. What do you want me to know about our relationship and our meeting time? (Journal everything He makes known to you.)

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

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for sharing Your heart with me again today. It is so great knowing Your intimate thoughts, desires, and messages of love and encouragement to me. I am grateful that Jesus made the way for me to communicate with You, at all times, in all places. I carry You in my heart wherever I go. My desire is to remain in You and You in me. Come near to me now, my Friend. Let me know Your presence and feel Your love. I put my trust in You and receive the confidence that You are in control of all things. This brings me much peace and joy, no matter the circumstances I may be in. You are my Comforter, my Guide, my Protector an Provider. You are my Savior and Deliverer. You are my Rock and Refuge, my hiding place. Thank You for being my All-in-All; You are everything to me. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 139:13-17, 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. 15My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. 16Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the day ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. 17How precious to me are Your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!

Matthew 6:5-6, 5“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Matthew 6:16-18, 16“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 57 – Strength in Weakness

May18

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 57

Strength in Weakness

Heavenly Father, sometimes I feel so physically, emotionally, and spiritually drained. I am spent. I cannot even muster enough strength to take the next step, to put one foot in front of the other. Lord, where do I turn from here? Where do I find my strength in weakness? Why do I feel so weak? I am so humbled at this point. I have lost all my strength and independence.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My good child, let Me explain. In order to keep you from being prideful, I allow trials and challenges in your life. When you are humbled before Me and emptied of all your pride; when you reach the end of your ‘self’’; only then are you ready to receive My grace and help. You begin to understand that everything you hold closely, and all that you are, comes from My hand. Every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17). I see you in your weakness and give you My strength.

Pain, grief, disappointment, rejection, and failure may bring you to your knees. That is not a bad place to be. I often need to allow these tough times in your life before you are ready to let go and let Me go to work for you. I promise to work all things together for the good of those who love Me and are called according to My purpose 8:28). If you never experienced frailty, would you ever have a need for Me? My desire is that you will run to Me in these tough times, so I might teach you about My love and faithfulness. However, I would love for you to seek Me in the good times as well. Worship Me and seek Me with your whole heart (Deuteronomy 4:29). Love Me with all your heart, soul, mind and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5). Put Me first, above everything else.

Depend on Me. When you are weak, it is then, you are strong in Me. Therefore, be willing to boast all the more gladly about your weaknesses. My power is made perfect in weakness (1 Corinthians 12:9). Your weakness is My strength. Believe it! You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). You will know My strength when you remain in relationship with Me, especially when you are at your lowest point. In difficult times, I am your rock and your fortress (Psalm 18:2). I am all that you need.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). I am with you in all your trials, every one. I will never leave you or forget about you (Joshua 1:5). I wait patiently for you to turn to Me for help and strength. My arms are always open to you. Run to Me when you are exhausted. I will renew your strength and you will soar on wings like eagles; you will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint (Isaiah 40:31). I am here for you, My child. You have access to all that is Mine, including My strength, at all times. Just ask!

Prayer:

Father in heaven, I am in awe of You. You are so good to Me. You are always there for Me any time I need a helping hand, a word of encouragement, a boost in my spirit. Thank You for Your loving kindness and Your faithfulness. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). I am thankful in the trials, because I can depend on You. Lord, please speak to me from Your heart at this time. In the name of Christ, my solid Rock, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Papa God, what is it that you want me to know and hear from You today? (Record all the thoughts He gives you.)

 

  • Jesus, my fortress and my deliver, renew my strength today. Speak to me from Your heart. (Write every word you hear from Him.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, lead me to the Word of God. Please encourage me in my weakness. (Journal the words and 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:

Loving Father, thank You for Your kind words and faithful promises. I am so blessed to have You for my Papa. I owe my life to You; You are my strength and my All in All. Thank You for renewing my strength when I am weak; even for carrying me in the difficult times. You build me up when I am frail. You lift me up when I am down. You support me in all I do. I love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Deuteronomy 4:29, But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Deuteronomy 6:5, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

Joshua 1:5, “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you.”

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

Isaiah 40:29-31, 29He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

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

Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

2 Corinthians 12:6-10, 6Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, 7or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

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

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 41 – Refining Fire

May2

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 41

 Refining Fire

Lord, I am thankful that in all things You work for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28). Lord, You allow the fire of our trials and afflictions, in order to test us and purify us. Your refining fire of adversity will remove the dross, skim off the waste in our lives, and purify us, like silver and gold. When the dross has been removed, You, the Silversmith, can make something of our lives (Proverbs 25:4-5). You can use our vessel to complete the purpose You fashioned us for. Lord, thank You for Your wisdom in allowing us to suffer trials, to refine us and mature us in our faith. We learn to trust more completely in You, as You accompany us in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:24-25) and bring us to a place of abundance (Psalm 66:8-12).

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

O child of Mine, it is good you understand a portion of My ways. There are times when I spare you from challenges and troubles, yet other times I do not. I allow you to endure trials and I use them for your good: to strengthen you; to perfect your faith; and to purify you, removing the unnecessary waste from your life. I refine you as silver and test you as gold (Zechariah 13:9).

Do not fear the heat of the fire; fire is your friend. The furnace will be only hot enough to soften your will to the point when I can fashion you into a masterpiece, even more beautiful. I am with you in the fiery furnace. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze (Isaiah 43:2). Take My hand; I will walk you through the fire, into a place of abundance (Psalm 66:12).

Count it all joy whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:2-4). I will not allow you to be tested beyond what you can handle. I give you My Spirit to strengthen you in your weakness. I will renew your strength; you will soar on wings like eagles; you will run and not grow weary, you will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:31).

My beloved one, submit your will to Mine. Gladly enter the fire of refinement. Permit Me to mold you and make you according to My will. I sanctify you Myself (John 17:19). I desire that you continually allow Me to work in your life to make you more and more like Myself. This work will best be accomplished in the fire of refinement. I would not ask you to do something I have not done Myself. Lay down your life, and yield to Me. I know what is best for you and I desire only that. I want you to know how much I love you, My friend.  

Prayer:

Father God, my Silversmith, I delight in You. Thank You for loving me so much that You are willing to allow the trials which will refine me the most. Thank You for walking me through the flames and not letting me perish. I am grateful for the gift of Your Spirit who strengthens me when I am weak. Do not let any of these trials go to waste, Lord. Use them all for my good. Teach me Your ways, Lord. May I be like putty in the Potter’s hand? Please speak to me now and show me more of Your beautiful heart for me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Almighty God, help me understand Your wisdom in allowing me to experience trials. (Record everything you experience in your thoughts.)

 

  • Jesus, my Savior, please rescue me from the flames and teach me the lesson you want me to know. What is Your heart for me in this trial? (Write all the words and ideas that enter your mind.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, my Paraclete, stay with me in this present adversity. Make my spirit willing to endure this trial and my mind open to the lessons You want me to learn in it. Help me to see this challenge through Your eyes. What outcome do you desire for me? (Journal all His thoughts and impressions.)

 

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:

Wise Father in heaven, thank You for the trials and the fire that refines me. Please use these trials for my good: mature my faith and trust in You; sanctify my spirit; teach me Your ways and Your wisdom. I submit myself to You; please take my hand and walk me through my challenges. Lord, do not let the flames set me ablaze, but rescue me before I perish. Thank You for Your presence next to me in the furnace that burns so hot. Refine me with Your fire, so that I may set the world on fire for You! In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Job 23:10, But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

Psalm 12:6, And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver purified in a crucible, like gold refined seven times.

Psalm 66:8-12, 8Praise our God, all peoples, let the sound of His praise be heard; 9He has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. 10For You, God, tested us; You refined us like silver. 11You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. 12You let people ride over our heads; we went through fire and water; but you brought us to a place of abundance.

Proverbs 25:4-5, 4Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel; 5remove the wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.

Isaiah 40:29-31, 29He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 43:1-3, 1“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. 2When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 3For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior…”

Isaiah 48:9-10, 9“For My own name’s sake I delay My wrath; for the sake of My praise I hold it back from you, so as not to destroy you completely. 10See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. For My own sake, for My own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield My glory to another.”

Jeremiah 9:7, Therefore this is what the Lord Almighty says: “See, I will refine and test them, for what else can I do because of the sin of my people?”

Ezekiel 22:17-22, 17Then the word of the Lord came to me: 18“Son of man, the people of Israel have become dross to Me; all of them are the copper, tin, iron and lead left inside a furnace. They are but the dross of silver. 19Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘Because you have all become dross, I will gather you into Jerusalem. 20As silver, copper, iron, lead and tin are gathered into a furnace to be melted with a fiery blast, so will I gather you in My anger and My wrath and put you inside the city and melt you. 21I will gather you and I will blow on you with My fiery wrath, and you will be melted inside her. 22As silver is melted in a furnace, so you will be melted inside her, and you will know that I the Lord have poured out My wrath on you.’”

Daniel 3:24-25, 24Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly Your Majesty.” He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”

Daniel 6:26-27, 26”I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For He is the living God and He endures forever; His kingdom will not be destroyed, His dominion will never end. 27He rescues and He saves; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.”

Zechariah 13:7-9, 7“Awake, sword, against my shepherd, against the man who is close to me!” declares the Lord Almighty. “Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered, and I will turn My hand against the little ones. 8In the whole land,” declares the Lord, “two-thirds will be struck down and perish; yet one-third will be left in it. 9This 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.’”

Malachi 3:2-3, 2But who can endure the day of His coming? Who can stand when He appears? For He will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. 3He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the Lord will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness.

John 17:17-19, 17“Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. 18As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world. 19For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.”

Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

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

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.

Revelation 3:18, I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

 

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 40 – Praise Him in the Storms 

May1

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 40

Praise Him in the Storms 

Lord, where have you been during the storms of my life?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, I have been there with you through each one, you just didn’t always know it. 

The raindrops that fall during your storms are My tears falling to the earth. I cry with you each time you cry. The lightning that you see flash across the dark sky of your storms is from My heart breaking in two for you. My heart aches for you each time I see you suffer through trials and tribulations. The thunder you hear during your storms is from My anger. I am angry when the people I have created cause you hurt and pain. I am angry when the enemy attacks you and wounds you. 

The winds that blow through your storms are the breaths of My sighs moving through the earth.  I sigh with compassion when I think of My beloved children going through the pain of daily struggles with relationships, disease, divorce, sin and death. When the waves on the seas crash against your boat and toss it to and fro in your storms, I am there to make sure the waves are not bigger than your vessel can handle. My hand is upon you.

When you feel you can’t last another day, I allow you to rest in My arms and I renew you with the strength you need to go on. When you wonder and ask why I would allow you to go through these storms, I do not get angry. It has not been easy for Me to watch you go through these tough times. You’re My child and I love you. I want to rescue you from each storm. But in My infinite wisdom, I allow you to endure the pain and suffering to bring you closer to Me. I want to build your character and mature your faith so that I may use you to help others through their storms. 

It is during these storms that I hope you will realize how much you need Me. I am waiting for you to cry out to Me so that I can extend My grace to you. My grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9). I will pull you through. I am also waiting for you to seek help from others, so that I can use them to be like Christ to you. Let down the walls of pride and reach out for assistance.

It is during these times, that I hope you’ll turn to Me. My heart breaks when My people turn to other things to comfort themselves, like:  food, alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, money, and material possessions. I want to be your God, your one and only God. I am your anchor of hope in the storm. I am your stronghold; your rock and refuge (2 Samuel 22:2-3). Take your shelter in the shadow of My wings (Psalm 36:7). I will protect you from all evil and the evil one.

It is during these storms that I am waiting to show you how much you mean to Me and whom I can be to you, but sometimes you don’t allow Me to. You don’t give Me the time with you I need to accomplish this or your pride gets in the way. You want to be so independent and in control of your own life. You want to get yourself out of your own messes in your own way. You run ahead of Me. You do not want to rely on Me or on the fellowship of believers to help you get through the tough times.

In My word, I tell you how I feel about pride. I hate pride. Pride comes before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). With pride comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom (Proverbs 11:2). I oppose the proud, but give grace to the humble (James 4:6). When you are weak, it is then that I show My power in you (2 Corinthians 12:10).  When you share your needs with Me and with My faithful ones, you are not revealing your weakness, but your strength. By asking for help and prayers, you are being humble, so that you may experience all My grace and all My wisdom. But when you try to do it all on your own, you leave Me no room to help.

Do not forsake Me, for I will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). I have proven that. I am the God who saved Noah from the flood (See Genesis 6). I saved the three Hebrew boys from the fiery furnace (See Daniel 3). I saved Daniel from the mouths of hungry lions (See Daniel 6). I was with David when he fought the giant (See 1 Samuel 17). I released Joseph from Pharaoh’s prison (See Genesis 41). I saved Isaac from being sacrificed on the altar (See Genesis 22). I delivered Jonah from the belly of the fish (See Jonah 2). And I will see you through your storms too. Please notice that I did not keep these people from going through their struggles, but I did not forget about them; I was with them. I allowed them to go through their storms for their own good and then rescued them. And I will rescue you too, in My perfect timing, if you will let Me.

Praise Me in the storms. I love you and I will take care of you. I will rebuke the winds and the waves (Matthew 8:26). I do not allow you to endure more than you can handle, however, by the power of My Spirit within, you can handle a lot. Fix your eyes on Me and I will see you to the end of the storm. I am with you always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). I am with you in every storm. I set My rainbow in the clouds as My promise to you, that never again will waters become a flood to destroy all life. You will survive your storms. I will see to it because I love you.

Prayer:

Lord, I praise You in the storm. I praise You that You do not leave me alone. I praise You in Your sanctuary, in Your mighty heavens. I praise You for Your acts of power; for Your surpassing greatness. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. (Psalm 150:1-2, 6). With all the breath in me, I praise You, Lord. I praise You because You listen to my cries and quiet me with Your love. Please allow me to hear some more of Your heart right now, Lord. Speak to me in the stillness of this room as we sit together in conversation. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, what stirs Your heart into action during my storms? (Record all the thoughts you have.)

 

  • Jesus, my faithful Savior, thank You for rebuking the winds and waves in my storms, and restoring the calm. Lord, please show me where You are in the storm. (Write the ideas and words that come to mind for you.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, I know You are with me always. Please help me feel Your presence and Your love in the midst of this tempest. Please describe the work You are doing in me through this current challenge. (Journal everything 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:

Heavenly Father, thank You for speaking to my heart even now. I praise You in this storm, Lord. You are worthy of all my praise. I thank You for Your work in me as I learn to depend on You for all things, in good times and bad. Lord, I confess my pride of independence and ask You to forgive my shortcomings. I submit my spirit to Yours, and ask that You continue to mature me to be more like Jesus. I ask this in His name. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

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

Psalm 17:7-9, 7Show me the wonders of Your great love, You who save by Your right hand those who take refuge in You from their foes. 8Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings 9from the wicked who are out to destroy me, from my mortal enemies who surround me.

Psalm 36:7, How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

Psalm 107:28-31, 28Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brought them out of their distress. 29He stilled to storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. 30They were glad when it grew calm, and He guided them to their desired haven. 31Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind.

Psalm 150:1-2,6, 1Praise the Lord. Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens. 2Praise Him for His acts of power; praise Him for His surpassing greatness…6Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.

Proverbs 11:2, When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

Proverbs 16:18, Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

Matthew 8:23-27, 23Then He got into the boat and His disciples followed Him. 24Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. 25The disciples went and woke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” 26He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. 27The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!”

Matthew 28:20, “…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

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

Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

James 4:6-8, 6But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8Come near to God and He will come near to you.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 39 – Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed

Apr30

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 39

Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed

Lord, as with everything, one’s faith is tested in trials and strengthened in a relationship with You. Extreme faith is a gift from the Spirit. And yet, Your word promises it takes only a small amount of faith to do great things. Hardships test the faith and produce perseverance. Is it even possible to increase my faith without the trials? Either way, I have faith in You to work all things together for the good of those who love You (Romans 8:28).

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My beloved friend, when you encounter hardship, exercise your faith. It takes only a speck of faith to accomplish great things. “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there.’ And it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:19-20). Even a little faith can move mountains.

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matthew 21:21-22). But when you doubt, you are as a wave on the sea, tossed back and forth, double-minded. You should not expect to receive anything you ask for (James 1:7).

Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:2-4). Faith and trust go hand in hand. Trust in Me with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, submit to Me and I will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Listen to My voice and submit yourself to Me. Trust that I am in control of all things; have faith that I will give you anything you ask for in My name.

Faith is a gift from Me. You have been saved through faith by My grace (Ephesians 2:8), and you live by faith every day. There are different kinds of faith. Extreme faith is a gift of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:9). Your faith will make you well. When you ask for healing, believe in it! Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours (Mark 11:24). Nothing is impossible when you believe (Matthew 17:20). Jesus dwells in your heart through faith. He is able to do immeasurably more than all you ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within you (Ephesians 3:20). Have faith and believe it!

When you experience a breakdown in your faith, do not focus on the obstacle in front of you. But fix your eyes upon Jesus. Do not grow weary and lost heart (Hebrews 12:2-3). Do not fix your eyes on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). There is but One who remains in control of all things; it is I, the Sovereign God, who reigns on high and rules all things and all people at all times. I am trustworthy. I never change. Put your faith and trust in Me; I AM.

Always remember, never will I leave you, never will I forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). I love you deeply and want what is best for you. I am always at work behind the scenes. I have a plan and purpose for you life (Jeremiah 29:11) and I am working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). You are my beloved child, and I care for you deeply. I desire that you mature in your faith, even if it involves allowing you to endure difficult times to do so. Stand firm in your faith; I will provide the strength and hope to persevere. I know what is best for you, and I will see you through your challenges. Have faith, even as small as a mustard seed!

Prayer:

Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of faith, even though it may be small. Thank You that even a speck of faith can move mountains. You are an awesome, all powerful God, who works through Your weakest people to show Your great strength and power. Almighty God, will you meet with me now and increase my faith and trust in You. Work Your grace and Your power in my life. Give me the confidence I need to trust in You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, please share with me how my faith in You works to move mountains. (Record every word and thought He gives you.)

 

  • Jesus, my Lord, I want to have the faith of the centurion (Luke 7:6-10) and the faith of the woman who touched Your robe to be healed (Mark 5:34). Teach me how to have that kind of faith. What must I do? (Write down all thoughts and ideas Jesus gives you in this moment.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, please give me the gift of faith. I want to believe and not doubt. Help me overcome my unbelief (Mark 9:24). Please give to me as You determine. What might that be? (Journal the thoughts and verses the Holy Spirit 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:

Dear Father in heaven, I am grateful for this conversation that we shared today. Thank You for sharing Your heart on the subject of my faith. Lord, strengthen me with Your gift of faith, and empower me to trust in You completely for all things. Lord, I am so blessed that You call me Your child, You love me beyond my comprehension, and You know what is best for me and carry it out according to Your good and perfect will. Thank You for your love and faithfulness to all generations of those who love You. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

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

Jeremiah 29:11-14, 11“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. 14I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.”

Matthew 9:2, Some men brought to Him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.”

Matthew 9:22, Jesus turned and saw her, “Take heart, daughter,” He said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment.

Matthew 15:28, Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted,” And her daughter was healed at that moment.

Matthew 17:19-20, Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there.’ And it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

Matthew 21:21-22, 21Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. 22If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

Mark 4:37-41, 37A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped.  38Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, don’t You care if we drown?” 39He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be Still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40He said to His disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey Him!”

Mark 5:34, He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

Mark 9:23-24, 23“’If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” 24Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

Mark 10:52, “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

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

Luke 5:20, When Jesus saw their faith, He said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”

Luke 7:6-10, 6So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to Him: “Lord, don’t trouble Yourself, for I do not deserve to have You come under my roof. 7That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9When Jesus heard this, He was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following Him, He said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” 10Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.

Luke 7:48-50, 48Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Luke 8:48, Then He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”

Luke 17:6, He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.”

Luke 17:19, Then He said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”

Acts 3:16, By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through Him that has completed healed him, as you can all see.

Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

Romans 10:17, Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 7Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and He distributes them to each one, just as He determines.

1 Corinthians 13:2, 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.

2 Corinthians 4:18, So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 5:7, For we live by faith, not by sight.

Ephesians 2:8-9, 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9not by works, so that no one can boast.

Ephesians 3:16-21, 16I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know His 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.

Hebrews 10:22-23, 22Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 11:1-3, 1Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2This is what the ancients were commended for. 3By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what I seen was not made out of what was visible.

Hebrews 12:1-3, 1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

James 1:2-8, 12, 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. 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. 7That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do….12Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

1 Peter 5:8-11, 8Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion 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 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 38 – Be Joyful

Apr29

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 38

 Be Joyful

Dearest Father, You knit me together in the womb, and You know my inmost being. You know that I am not naturally a happy, joyful person. However, I do understand and believe that true joy is not a feeling, instead it is a gift from the Spirit and a confidence I experience in my relationship with You. Your joy is my inner strength (Nehemiah 8:10). My joy is made complete in a close connection and daily conversation with You. Thank You for producing the fruit of joy in my life through the gift of the Holy Spirit within me. Listening to Your voice and reading Your Word both bring me great and lasting joy.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, you may not feel joyful, however, that is exactly what you are. You experience supernatural joy through the gift of My Spirit. You possess the confidence in knowing that I am your God, I am in control, and you can place your hope and trust in Me and My promises. You have the assurance that I love you and care for you; therefore, I will work all things together for your good (Romans 8:28).

We are not speaking about the happiness that good circumstances produce, but an inner, enduring joy that supersedes the pleasures that the world offers. You may remain joyful in every situation because of your relationship with Jesus Christ who sustains you. That relationship never changes. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

I am your strength and shield. When your heart trusts in Me, it leaps for joy (Psalm 28:7). I grant you unending blessings with the joy of My presence (Psalm 21:6). My joy is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). I turn your crying into dancing and your mourning into joy (Psalm 30:11). Rejoice and be glad that My Spirit gives you unending peace and lasting joy.

My peace and joy are available to you in good times and bad through the gift of the Spirit. You may rejoice even when I don’t deliver you from your troubles, because you know that I will take care of you and provide for all your needs. It is during your trials that you grow the most. You learn to depend on Me and know that I will never leave you or forget about you (Hebrews 13:5).

Joy is also a choice. You may enjoy a positive outlook as you focus on Me rather than your sorrows and difficult circumstances. You know I will walk you through your trials. I am in control of everything. Nothing can separate you from My love (Romans 8:39). Be thankful for what I am doing in you through your challenges. When you are weak, I am your strength (2 Corinthians 12:10). Your joy will be made full. Choose Me and be joyful.

Prayer:

Dear Most Holy Father, I am joyful because of the peace, hope, faith, and confidence I have in knowing You love me and You are in control of all things. There is no one like You, Lord. There is no place I’d rather be than spending time in relationship with You. It brings me great joy to listen to Your voice and read about You in Your Word. Thank You for adopting me as Your child and allowing me to approach You with freedom and confidence (Ephesians 3:12). Lord, magnify my joy by allowing me to clearly hear Your voice and Your words for me in this moment as we sit in conversation. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God: 

  • Father God, what brings You the most joy? (Record what you hear from Him.)

 

  • Jesus, my Savior, please explain to me the joy You anticipated even in Your darkest hour as stated in Hebrews 12:2, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Write everything He brings to your mind right now.)

 

  • Holy Spirit, please sanctify me to become more like Christ and produce in me, the fruit of joy. Show me what that will require. (Journal all your thoughts and ideas.)

 

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

Prayer:

Lord, in the past, I could really relate to David’s claim in Psalm 30:11-12, “You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing Your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise You forever.” I experienced that new joy as You brought me from depression to dancing, and now I cannot keep silent about Your goodness. You have done great things for me and I am filled with joy (Psalm 126:3). I see where the Spirit has produced that fruit of joy in me. I will praise you forever, O Lord, my God. My heart sings and leaps for joy, even in the difficult times, because I put my faith and trust in You to carry me through. I can experience joy in any situation. Thank You for this realization. Thank You for Your mercy and grace, peace and joy, love and provision. Thank You for building a firm foundation of joy in my life and a lasting joy in my heart for You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Nehemiah 8:10, Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Nehemiah 12:43, And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away.

Psalm 21:6, Surely You have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of Your presence.

Psalm 28:7, The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him.

Psalm 30:11-12, 11You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12that my heart may sing Your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise You forever.

Psalm 47:1-2, 1Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. 2For the Lord Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth.

Psalm 51:12, Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Psalm 66:1, Shout for joy to God, all the earth!

Psalm 95:1, Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.

Psalm 100:1-2, 1Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. 2Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.

Psalm 126:3, The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy.

Proverbs 12:20, Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.

Isaiah 12:4-6, 4In that day you will say: “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done, and proclaim that His name is exalted. 5Sing to the Lord, for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. 6Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you.”

Isaiah 51:11, Those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

Isaiah 58:13-14, 13“If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on My holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, 14then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land, and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

Habakkuk 3:18, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Luke 6:23, “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.”

Luke 10:21, At that time, Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what You were pleased to do.”

John 3:29, “The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is Mine, and it is now complete.”

John 15:9-11, 9“As 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, 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 complete.”

John 16:23, “So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”

John 17:13, “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.”

Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

Romans 8:35-39, 35Who shall separates us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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

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

Galatians 5:22-23, 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.

Ephesians 3:12, In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.

Philippians 1:3-6, 3I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being 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 2:1-2, 1Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

Philippians 4:4, Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice!

Colossians 1:9-12, 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.

Hebrews 1:9, “You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” (Psalm 45:6-7)

Hebrews 12:2, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

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

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 1:6-9, 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. 8Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

3 John 1:4, I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 33 – Blessed to Be a Blessing

Apr24

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 33

 Blessed to Be a Blessing

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Two-way Conversation with God: 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Prayer:

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luke 6:38, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

 

 

 

 

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

Apr7

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

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer: 

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

Two-way Conversation with God:

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Prayer:

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John 14:23, Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves Me will obey My teaching. My Father will love them, and We will come to them and make Our home with them.”

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

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

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

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

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

Ephesians 2:4, But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.

Ephesians 3:16-19, I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know His love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved

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

Apr5

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

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

 A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

 Two-way Conversation with God:

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

 

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

  

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

 

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

 

Prayer:

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

Supporting Scripture:

 Joshua 1:5, “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

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

Copyright © Sindy Nagel. All Rights Reserved.