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Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 60 – Spiritual Growth

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 60

Spiritual Growth

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Two-way Conversation with God:

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May20

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 59

Fruit of the Spirit

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

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Two-way Conversation with God:

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Supporting Scripture:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Galatians 5:22-26, ²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ²⁴Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Colossians 1:9-14, ⁹For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, ¹⁰so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, ¹¹being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, ¹²and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of His holy people in the kingdom of light. ¹³For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, ¹⁴in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 3:12-15, ¹²Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. ¹³Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. ¹⁴And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. ¹⁵Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 46 – God’s Guidance

May7

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 46

God’s Guidance

Lord, so many times, I run ahead of You and make my decisions without Your wisdom and guidance. Help Me to remember that You are always with me, watching over me, protecting me, and You have my best interests in mind. When I seek You, I will find You, and Your Spirit will make Your heart known to me. I submit myself to You, and ask You to direct my paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Strengthen me to run with perseverance the race You have marked out for me (Hebrews 12:1). Please guide me down that path.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

I am never too busy to listen to you. I am available to you all hours of the day and night. I never slumber nor sleep (Psalm 121:4). I constantly work all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). If you lack wisdom, ask Me. I give generously to all without finding fault. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt (James 1:5-6). Ask and it will be given to you (Matthew 7:7).

Whatever situation you face, I have the answer. I will teach you from My Word. My Word is a lamp for your feet, a light on your path (Psalm 119:105). Meditate on it day and night and it will become clearer to you. My Spirit helps you understand My Word. I will instruct you with the truth and in My perfect timing. I will lead you on the path I have prepared for you and marked out for you. I will keep you in My sight at all times. My lovingkindness will surround you; I will protect you on every side. You will experience My peace and joy, even in your biggest trials.

I have plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Call on Me and I will listen to you. Seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:11-14). When you ask for anything according to My will, have faith and believe I will give you what you asked for (Mark 11:22-24).

I know the future and I know what’s best for you. My Spirit will guide you into all truth and tell you what is yet come (John 16:13). He will help you discern between truth and falsehoods. He will equip you for the plans I have made for you. He will empower you to carry out the purpose for which I created you. He will warn you of dangers that lie ahead. He will encourage you to live in a manner that will bring glory to Me. Pay attention to My Spirit within and your ears will hear My voice saying, “This is the way, walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

I reveal things to you by My Spirit; He knows the deep things of My heart and freely gives them to you (1 Corinthians 2:10-14). Blessed are you when you wait on Me! (Isaiah 30:18). Even when you do not know what to ask for, the Holy Spirit intercedes for you according to My will (Romans 8:26-27).

Come to Me and listen to Me. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My loving eye on you (Psalm 32:8). Trust in Me alone. When you do not follow My instructions, there will be consequences. Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but My unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in Me (Psalm 32:10). Do not be too hasty to make your own decisions and walk in your own way. In the end, your pride will reap you a harvest of destruction (Proverbs 16:18). Every decision you make is an important one, big or small. Involve Me in each one

Trust in Me with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Me and I will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). Do not run ahead and try to fix things on your own. You’ll most assuredly be disappointed in the end. Exercise forbearance and wait on Me. I will act on your behalf (Isaiah 64:4). When you walk down the path I place you on, your obedience will lead to blessings. Your best blessings are the result of listening to My voice and following My instructions. You are never alone. I am with you always. Why try to do things on your own? Listen to My voice and follow Me (John 10:27).

Prayer:

Lord, I am so blessed by Your Spirit within me who teaches me all things, even the deep things of Your heart. I am so looking forward to hearing more of Your heart for me today. Lord, please speak to me as I seek You wholeheartedly today. I want to do Your will. I desire to know Your plans for me. Lord, please let me in on the next step in the race. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Father God, I know You want the best for me. Lord, please show me what that means for me personally in my current challenge of _______________ (fill in the blank). (Write down all thoughts and impressions you have in this moment.)

Jesus, You are the way maker. Please show me the way to Your heart. What must I do to get on the path to a deeper relationship with You? (Record everything you hear.)

Holy Spirit, You are my Helper and my Counselor. Please counsel me with the wisdom of God and help me know which way I should turn in my current dilemma or decision to make: ______________ (fill in the blank). (Listen to His voice in your thoughts and journal whatever pops into your mind.

Prayer:

Most Holy One, I stand in awe that I can approach Your throne of grace anytime of the day or night. Thank You for being available to me 24/7/365. I desire to know Your wisdom and Your will in all circumstances. Lord, Your eyes are forever on me; you know my coming and my going. Holy Spirit, I submit my spirit to Your leading. Please direct my paths and help me discern God’s will and His ways. I will meditate on Your Word and receive my instruction from You. Holy Spirit, bring understanding as I read it. Point me to the Scripture You want me to know and cherish in my heart for today. In the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Psalm 121:1-4, ⁴I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? ²My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. ³He will not let your foot slip—He who watches over you will not slumber; ⁴indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

Psalm 32:8-11, ⁸I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My loving eye on you. ⁹Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. ¹⁰Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in Him. ¹¹Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!

Psalm 119:105, Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

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

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

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!

Isaiah 30:21, Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

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 7:7-8, ⁷“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. ⁸For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

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.”

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

John 16:13, But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on His own; he will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet come.

Romans 8:26-27, ²⁶In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but he Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. ²⁷And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

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

1 Corinthians 2:10-14, ¹⁰These are the things God has revealed to us by His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. ¹¹For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. ¹²What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. ¹³This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words. ¹⁴The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

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.

James 1:5-8, 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.

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.)

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.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 35 – Tired & Weary? Rest in Me

Apr26

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 35

Tired & Weary? Rest in Me

Heavenly Father, why do I wait until I am maxed out physically, emotionally, and spiritually to seek You for renewed strength and increased power. Your Word promises that when I put my hope in You, You will renew my strength. I will soar on wings like eagles, run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:29-31). Help me to seek You at the beginning of my trials, before I run out of fuel, running in my own direction. Lord, I put my faith in You and Your power within Me, to walk me through this challenge. Lord, what do You want me to hear and know today?

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

Come to Me, weary one. Lay down your burdens at My feet. I will carry your heavy load and exchange it for a lighter load to bear. Put your confidence in Me and find rest for your weary soul. My yoke is easy and My burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30). Surrender everything to Me and rest. Leave your worries and your cares in My capable hands. Allow Me to remove the weight of your responsibilities, and give you My perfect peace.

Hold fast to Me. Depend on Me for your every need. When you are weak, it is then you are strong (2 Corinthian 12:10). Trade in your stress, lay it down, and do not take it up again. Replace it with the confidence and joy of trusting in Me for everything you desire and need. My joy is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Take hold of the hope set before you and be encouraged. This hope in Jesus Christ is an anchor for the soul, firm and secure (Hebrews 6:18-19).

When you face trials, consider it pure joy, a testing of your faith. Learn to persevere to the finish to grow in your maturity and faith in Me (James 1:2-4). Be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:9). 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. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior (Isaiah 43:1-3).

Trust Me completely for everything. I am the Sovereign Lord, in control of all things. Submit yourself to Me. I am your helper. Be not afraid (Hebrews 13:6). I will see you through this difficult time. Cast all your anxiety on Me because I care for you (1 Peter 5:7). I will take care of you and allow your soul a break from the stress you endure.

Rest in Me. Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10). Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you (James 4:8). I do not give you more than you can handle. I give generously the power of My Spirit within you. Look within you and find the strength which reinforces your constitution and foundation in Me. I am here. I desire to daily meet with you in a quiet place where I can effectively communicate the depth of My love and concern for you.

You are My beloved child, whom I love. I do not allow you to be overwhelmed when you depend on Me. Rest in Me, My love. I am your shelter and your strong tower. I will rescue you from your present difficulties in due time. Seek Me in the middle of your storms, and find your respite in Me. I will walk you through the valleys and push the mountains aside that stand in your way. I prepare the path I have marked out for you. This is the good way. Walk in it and you will find rest for your soul (Jeremiah 6:16).

Prayer:

Father, thank You for your comforting, encouraging words and promises. I will find rest for my weary soul when I spend some time alone with You. Jesus, as I draw near to You now, please draw near to Me and quiet me with Your love. Speak to my heart directly from Your heart through the voice of the Holy Spirit within me. Lord, I seek You now, to be still and know that You are God. In the quietness of this secret place, allow me to clearly hear a word from You. In the name of Jesus, my Rescuer and my Refuge, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

1) Father in heaven, You are my Rock and Refuge. Please share Your heart with me now. How do I get to that place of shelter and rest in You. What do I need to add or remove from my life to best achieve this? (Write what you hear in your thoughts.)

2) Jesus, my Savior, will You now reveal the desires of Your heart for me? How do I weather this storm and maintain a resilient spirit and faith? (Record His words and ideas for you.)

3) Holy Spirit, I tune into Your voice and ask that You would remind me of and direct me to pertinent Scripture right now as we speak. Lord, what do You want me to know from Your Word? (Record all words and passages that come to mind just now.)

Prayer:

Most High, Omnipotent Father, I rejoice in Your sovereign power to demolish all strongholds and restore peace and rest to my soul. Lord, thank You that You walk me through my battles and bring me to a peaceful place of rest in You. Thank You, Great Shepherd, that You carry me, as a lamb in Your arms, away from dangers, foils, and snares, and lead me to the still waters and lush meadows, Your haven of security and well-being. Lord, please prepare and light the way You have marked out for me, and help me run this race with perseverance, fixing my eyes on You only (Hebrews 12:1). In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

2 Samuel 22:33, It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.

Nehemiah 8:10, “…the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

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

Psalm 28:7, The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.

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

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

Psalm 46:10-11, ¹⁰He says, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” ¹¹The Lord almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 84:5, Blessed are those whose strength is in You…

Psalm 105:4, Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.

Psalm 118:14, The Lord is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation.

Isaiah 40:28-31, ²⁸Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. 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.”

Isaiah 43:1-3, ¹“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called 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 43:1-3).

Isaiah 50:4, The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.

Jeremiah 6:16, This is what the Lord says, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Habakkuk 3:19, The Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to tread on the heights.

Matthew 11:28-30, ²⁸“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Romans 8:26, In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.

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 6:9, Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

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

Ephesians 6:10, Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.

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

1 Thessalonians 3:13, May He strengthen you in your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all His holy ones.

2 Thessalonians 3:13, And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing good.

Hebrews 6:18-19, ¹⁸God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. ¹⁹We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.

Hebrews 13:6, So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals to do me?”

James 4:8, Come near to God and He will come near to you.

1 Peter 4:11, If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 5:6-11, ⁶Humble yourselves, therefore under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. ⁷Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. ⁸Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around looking for someone to devour. ⁹Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. ¹⁰And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. ¹¹To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 11 – I am Your Paraclete

Apr2

Pursuing the Heart of God – Day 11

I am Your Paraclete

Father God, what do You mean by the word Paraclete? What does that mean for me? How does that define our relationship? Give me a glimpse of Your heart. Please teach me Your ways and provide me the knowledge of Your good gifts. Help me to appreciate all that You are to me—my Paraclete.

A Message from God’s Heart to Yours:

My child, I love to teach you My ways. I love to give you the knowledge you need to better understand My heart for you. A Paraclete is a Greek word that means “called beside or alongside to help.” I am your Helper, your Friend, who walks alongside you at all times.

I will remind you that Jesus calls you His friend (see John 15:12-15). He laid down His life for you because He loves you so profoundly. Jesus was the first Paraclete. And when He left the earth, He did not leave you as an orphan. He asked the Father to send another Helper, Advocate, or Paraclete, the Holy Spirit (John 14:16). I am He.

I dwell in you, and walk beside you, as you navigate your life here on earth. I am your deposit guaranteeing your eternal life in heaven. I teach you (John 14:16), and remind you of what Jesus taught (John 14:26). I testify about Jesus (John 15:26), and convict you of your sin (John 16:8).

I am your Advocate. I love you unconditionally at all times. I stick closer to you than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). I prove faithful to My promises. I do not abandon you. I encourage, strengthen, and empower you. I uphold, support, and defend you. I teach you the wisdom of God. I help you interpret the Word of God. I offer you counsel and comfort. I speak the truth in love. I speak to the Father in your defense. I give you spiritual gifts (Galatians 5:22-23). I transform you and empower you to live a life conformed to Jesus Christ. I do all this without your knowledge or recognition. I am your Best Friend. And I desire a more cherished, close, intimate, personal relationship with you. Do you desire to know Me more intimately as well?

Take a walk with Me daily. Walk with Me and talk with Me. Listen to Me. Obey Me. I am your Paraclete, and I have your best interests in mind. Let Me love you with the Father’s love, unconditionally. Let Me love you with the Son’s love, sacrificially. Let Me love you as a Friend, completely. You are My delight.

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, thank You for giving me a picture of who You are to me. Thank You for caring for me so completely. I appreciate all that You are and all that You do. Thank You for remaining at my side and dwelling in my heart. Thank You for being available to me at all times, to counsel me, encourage me, teach me, and empower me. Please enable me to hear from you now as we sit together and talk. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Two-way Conversation with God:

Father, thank You for sending the gift of the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. What do You want me to know about this wonderful benefit? (Write all the thoughts you have right now.)

Jesus, thank You for being a Friend. Please tell me what that means for me. (Write your insights here.)

Holy Spirit, thank You for being another Paraclete. Tell me how to best tap in to your works in my life. (Record your thoughts and impression here.)

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

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for being a close companion who walks beside me, guiding me through life. It’s a huge comfort knowing that I never walk alone, You are always by my side. I appreciate all that You do for me. I am grateful that I know the God of the universe who is willing to sit with me and speak to me. Thank You for Your words and thoughts I received from You and recorded above. Remind me of these truths whenever they fade from my memory. Lord, I love You with all my heart. Thank You for first loving me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Supporting Scripture:

John 14:15-17, “If you love Me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you will know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.” (emphasis mine)

John 15:12-15, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love as no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from My Father I have made known to you.”

John 14:26-27, “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

John 15:26, “When the Counselor comes, who I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me.”

John 16:7-8, “But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. When He comes, He will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.”

Proverbs 18:24, A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Galatians 5:22-23, But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

A Delicate Balance

Oct1

Body

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

Mind

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

Spirit

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

My beloved one,

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

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

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

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

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

A Thank-Full Heart

Nov26

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song.” (Psalm 95:1-2, NIV)

Lord, I come before You today with a heart full of gratitude! Thank You for saving me from my sins and redeeming my life. Thank You for your perpetual work in refining me to use for Your good purpose and will. I am forever thankful to You for adopting me as Your child. Thank You for the assurance of eternal life with You! Most of all, I thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives in my heart and challenges me daily to become more like Jesus Christ! What an amazing, priceless gift from above! Praise the Lord, the Rock of my salvation!

My precious child, you are welcome. It was My pleasure. I love you more than you will ever understand. Everything I do for you flows from a heart full of My love for you. I have your best in mind. In good times and bad, plenty and want, I am with you. The challenges I allow you to walk through help develop you into the person I had in mind when I created you. I will never leave you. I am only a whisper away. Listen to your heart within to feel My presence and know My voice. I speak to you daily—Are you listening? Meet with Me often, away from the crowds and noise. I have so much wisdom to impart for your daily life. Walk in step with My Spirit and take your direction from Me. The best is yet to come. Thank you for remembering Me today!

You Can Do It, With His Strength

Oct24

By Sindy Nagel

When the road you’re on is long and hard

With snares on either side

Take My hand; I’ll lead you on

I AM your strength and guide.

When challenges present themselves

And keep you from your way

Run to Me, I’m here for you

To walk you through your day.

When sorrow strikes and grief sets in

Your Comforter, I’m He

I’ll hold you in My loving arms

Your strength I’ll always be.

When sin is knocking at your door

Asking you to play

Call on Me, I’ll give you strength

There is a better way.

When hope is gone and your heart feels weak

You need a loyal friend

I AM your ever-present strength

I AM faithful to the end.

When you’re all alone and gripped with fear

Of some impending threat

I am your Fortress and your Shield

That truth, do not forget.

When the task at hand is much too large

For you to do yourself

I AM the One who gets you through

Trust Me to give you help.

You can do everything

You set your hand to do

Do not fear what lies ahead

My strength will lead you through.

Inspired by the Word of God from Philippians 4:13

“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”

Join Me in the Dance

Sep13

Let them praise His name with dancing and make music to Him with tambourine and harp. (Psalm 149:3)

You are my child. I want to spend time with you. If early morning is the only time that works, then get up and dance with Me. I am your dance partner. I want to be involved in your life—all of it. Remember I am with you every moment of every day. Notice Me. Speak with Me all day long. Listen to Me first thing in the morning, throughout your day, and just before bed. Dance is an art form that requires practice to perform well. Practice dancing with Me all day long.

Join Me in the Dance

by Sindy Nagel

Dance with Me in the morning

Dance with Me in the night

Dance with Me in the darkness

Dance with Me in the light

Dance with Me in the rain

Dance with Me in the sun

Dance with Me in the doldrums

Dance with Me in the fun

Dance with Me when you’re happy

Dance with Me when you’re sad

Dance with Me when you’re good

Dance with Me when you’re bad

Dance with Me when you’re anxious

Dance with Me when you’re still

Dance with Me when you’re hurting

Dance with Me when you’re well

Dance with Me when you’re broken

Dance with Me when you’re whole

Dance with Me in your heart

Dance with Me in your soul

Dance with Me when you’re weak

Dance with Me when you’re strong

Dance with Me in the silence

Dance with Me in the song

Dance with Me in the storms

Dance with Me in the peace

Dance with Me in captivity

Dance with Me in release

You may not know the steps

But don’t miss your only chance

To cherish this time together

When you join Me in the dance

Take my hand and I will lead you

The dance is more like a walk

A two-way chat between us

When we listen and we talk

Spend some time in the silence

Get away from the crowds and noise

Be still and know that I am God

And listen to my voice