Definitely The Goodness

Definitely The Goodness

May 9, 2024

To reach God decisively and with authority, embrace the goodness of your heart in Christ and your love for Him.

It is not because we are inherently lovely, but because God is love. God’s unwavering love and acceptance of you leaves no room for doubt. He knows your heart and your struggle.

The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law, as Corinthians 15:56 reminds us. However, Proverbs 16:7 explains that when a person’s ways please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them. Know God loves you and accepts the whole of you now, forgiving you.

In Ephesians 2:1-2, it is revealed that we were once dead in our transgressions and sins, following the ways of the world and the ruler of the kingdom of the air. But now, in Christ, we are alive and reborn, turning away from the ways of the world and focusing on the sight of Christ.

Let love and faithfulness never depart from you, as stated in Proverbs 3:3-4. Bind them around your neck and write them on the tablet of your heart. By doing so, you will find favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. As for Psalms One, blessed is the person who does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, stand with sinners, or sit with the scornful. Their delight is in the law of the Lord, and they meditate on it day and night. Like a tree planted by water, they will bear fruit in due season, their leaf will not wither, and whatsoever they do shall prosper.

The ungodly, on the other hand, are like chaff blown away by the wind. They will not stand in judgment, nor will sinners be in the congregation of the righteous.

The Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly will perish. Remember, in Jeremiah 10:23, that people’s lives are not their own, and it is not for them to direct their own steps. In 1 Timothy 4:1-4, it is cautioned that in the latter times, some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. These individuals will speak lies in hypocrisy, their consciences seared with a hot iron. They may forbid marriage and command to abstain from certain foods, but God has created everything to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.

Finally, come to the end of yourself and let the Spirit loose. We are here to serve and protect.
God wants you to be well and with Him, while you desire the peace and security found in Christ—a true end to grief.

Jesus wills it.

May 9, 2024

Luke 7:13
“And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.”

Gods’ Will for You

Gods’ Will for You

May 7, 2024

Are you longing for a deeper meaning in life, a sense that there is more to be discovered? God understands your desires, He knows your heart and the treasures it seeks. You already have a connection with God, as He resides within the hearts of all mankind. Find peace in your true heart, where Christ dwells.

Finding God’s will for your life is a question that many ponder. It is a good starting point to simply begin the search. God knows your heart and desires for you to know His. Embarking on this path may feel overwhelming at times, but remember that God will never burden you with more than you can bear. The revelation of His will may not always come in awe-inspiring moments, but rather through subtle whispers that align with His word and your heart-in-Christ.

Proverbs 16:4 states, “The Lord works out everything to its proper end—even the wicked for a day of disaster.” Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” On this path, focus on representing God in all things and seek His guidance through attentive listening. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you through the ordinary moments of life, transforming them into supernatural experiences. Peace is the key; if you find yourself lacking it, move along to another task and trust the Spirit’s work. When making decisions, take your time, listen for truths, guidance, and God’s voice. God desires your peace and comfort in life’s choices. Stay on the path, representing Christ, until you have clarity, free from the influence of pride or the need to save face. Expect to hear from God and be open to His guidance and understanding.

Romans 5:13 reminds us that sin existed prior to the law, but without the law, sin is not charged against anyone’s account. Now, we live by grace because no one could uphold the law. We failed to follow it, living a period without law. Moses introduced the law by God, and Jesus brought the law of Grace. Your salvation depends on your will.

Isaiah 59:1-2 assures us that the Lord’s power and ability to save are boundless. However, our iniquities have created a separation between us and God, hiding His face from us and inhibiting His ability to hear us.

In Christ, we become new creations. 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come.”

Malachi 3:6-7 declares, “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors, you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.

Change is essential, and we must strive to understand God’s will for us. By seeking knowledge and embracing His guidance, we allow ourselves to transform. Remember, God will never ask too much of you.

Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that Jesus Christ remains constant throughout time – yesterday, today, and forever.

Eyes Up

May 7, 2024

The fear of man bringeth a snare:
but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.
Proverbs 29:25 – KJV

Walk in the Spirit

May 7, 2024

How are we sharing the news?

Guided By A Higher Power In Our Choices

Finding Your Strength Now In Divine Guidance

“O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.”

It is my personal belief that this conveys the idea that humans have a limited ability to find their way in life and that we do not have the power to control our own journey.  This verse emphasizes that human beings do not control their own destiny and cannot ultimately dictate their path in life.

O LORD, I recognize that a person’s journey in life is not determined by their own actions; it is beyond the control of any individual, even at their best, to navigate and guide their own path through life.

That the way of man is not in himself

Guided By Divine Wisdom

The verse from Jeremiah 10 23 articulates a profound theological insight regarding human agency and divine sovereignty, highlighting that individual efforts to navigate life are intrinsically limited and ultimately futile without the guidance of the Lord, thereby underscoring the essential belief that true direction in life is bestowed by divine wisdom rather than solely derived from human intention or capability.

I Acknowledge Your Sovereignty O LORD

His Divine Guidance and Sovereign Authority

The insights found in Jeremiah 10:23 illuminate not only the nature of humanity but also underscore the significance of prayer in our lives. Although the verse itself does not directly reference prayer, it highlights a profound truth about our inherent struggles and the universal challenges we face. This scripture reflects the reality that we often lack the intrinsic ability to navigate life correctly on our own. It serves as a reminder that we are in need of guidance and support, which prayer beautifully provides, connecting us to a higher wisdom and helping us seek the right path amidst our shortcomings.

The journey that an individual embarks upon can lead to choices that define their course, whether it be towards virtuous deeds or malevolent acts, embracing triumph or encountering defeat.. In the intricate tapestry of life, every choice weaves a thread, yet each thread is influenced by the swirling currents of circumstance, belief, and the unseen forces that guide us. As we navigate our journeys, the compass of destiny often takes us down unexpected paths, revealing that our choices are but reflections of deeper truths and greater connections. It is in the moments of challenge and triumph where we discover the profound impact of our conduct—not solely determined by will, but also by the wisdom gained from our experiences and the relationships that shape our understanding of good and evil.

As we look with our hearts in Jesus after the Spirit deeper into the profound wisdom of Scripture, we must reflect on the truth articulated in Jeremiah 10 verse 23. This verse reveals a fundamental aspect of our existence, reminding us that our human understanding falls short when navigating the complexities of life. “O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself.” This acknowledgment lays the groundwork for a transformative realization that we are not the architects of our own destinies. Instead, we are called to surrender our desires and plans to the sovereign will of God, who knows our hearts and paths better than we ever could.

Consider the weight of these words. In our journey, we often cling to the illusion of control, believing that through our efforts and wisdom, we can dictate the outcomes of our lives. Yet, Scripture brings clarity, saying, “It is not in man that walketh to direct his own steps.” This humbling truth invites us to recognize our limitations and the necessity of divine guidance. In a world that often celebrates self-sufficiency, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly willing to submit our plans to God? Are we ready to embrace the reality that our steps are directed by Him?

The story of Melchizedek, the enigmatic priest and king of Salem, serves as a beautiful illustration of this principle. Melchizedek appears in Genesis 14, where he blesses Abram and receives a tithe from him. Significantly, Melchizedek’s name means “king of righteousness,” and he is described as a priest of the Most High God. His existence challenges our perception of earthly authority and control. Here is a figure who, without a recorded lineage, embodies the truth that true authority and guidance come from God alone. Just as Melchizedek ministered to Abram, we too must seek spiritual nourishment and direction from the Lord.

Our human frailty is evident as we navigate daily choices and life decisions, yet through recognizing our dependence on God, we can experience peace that transcends understanding. God desires our full trust; He invites us to cast our burdens upon Him and lean not on our own understanding as stated in Proverbs 3 verses 5 and 6. When we yield to this divine guidance, we align ourselves with the perfect plan that God has for our lives.

Reflect upon these questions in your own heart: In what areas do you struggle to relinquish control? How might acknowledging God’s sovereignty over your path transform your worries into trust? As we meditate upon these truths, let us not forget that this is an invitation to a deeper relationship with our Creator. His guidance is not only for the major decisions but for every step we take.

In closing, remember that while we walk this earth, we are not alone. The Spirit of God walks with us, illuminating our steps and directing our paths. Our reliance on God nurtures our faith and equips us for the journey ahead. With every decision, let us turn our hearts towards Him, recognizing that in Him, we find our true direction. Therefore, let us approach life with the humility of Jeremiah, acknowledging that indeed, the way of man is not in himself, but through the grace of God, we are led in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Embrace this truth, and let it guide you today and always. Amen

Humans Exercise Free Will Through Their Choices

Recognizing Divine Guidance and Sovereignty

Beloved disciples, let us delve deeply into the essence of walking in the Spirit. As we navigate this journey of faith, I urge you to reflect on the very foundation of divine guidance that we have been given. The question posed in Jeremiah 32 articulates a profound truth: Is there anything too hard for God? The answer echoes through the ages with unwavering certainty. The God we serve is the Creator of all flesh, the One who spoke the universe into being. When faced with trials and tribulations, remember that nothing lies beyond His power.

In a world where confusion reigns and self-directed plans often lead to ruin, we are reminded by Jeremiah 10 that it is not in man to direct his own steps. How humbling it is to recognize that our understanding is limited and our vision is clouded. We strive, oh how we strive, to carve our own paths, yet we find ourselves weary and lost without the counsel of our Creator. In our attempts to control our destinies, we may overlook the guiding hand of God that seeks to lead us toward paths of righteousness.

Let us consider the implications of truly walking in the Spirit. It is a conscious choice to surrender to God’s will, to seek His direction in every decision, big or small. In doing so, we align ourselves with His purpose, allowing His Spirit to mold our desires and intentions. This is not a call to passivity; rather, it is an invitation to active faith—stepping forward with confidence, knowing that we are guided by a God who sees the beginning from the end.

Moreover, the wisdom found in Proverbs reminds us of resilience. Though a righteous man may fall seven times, he rises again. Each stumble is not a defeat but a lesson, a divine opportunity for growth. Reflect on your own life—how often have you encountered setbacks that felt insurmountable? Yet, in those moments, it is the grace of God that lifts you, that encourages you to rise once more. This resilience is cultivated not by our strength, but by the nurturing of the Holy Spirit within us.

Consider, my friends, the unstoppable force of God’s grace in our lives. Are we not reminded that even in our darkest hours, we have a Savior who intercedes on our behalf? The wicked stumble in bad times because their foundation is not built on the Rock. But we, as bearers of His name, are called to rise above the fray, to shine brightly even amid trials. Do not allow the weight of failure to define you; instead, see it as a stepping stone toward greater reliance on our Lord.

Now, as we contemplate these truths, I challenge you to engage in a personal reflection. How often do you seek God’s guidance in your daily life? Are you embracing the Spirit’s leading, or are you attempting to navigate the waters of life in your own strength? Let these questions stir within you a desire for deeper intimacy with the Father. Pray earnestly for His direction, and in silence, listen for His voice.

Jesus has promised us the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to walk in accordance with His will. This is not merely a theoretical concept; it is the living reality of our faith. Thus, I implore you, walk in the Spirit. Release the need to control every aspect of your life and allow God to direct your steps. Embrace the freedom that comes from trusting in His divine sovereignty.

Is there anything too hard for God? If He can create the heavens and the earth, surely He can handle the complexities of our lives. So let us cast aside any doubts and walk boldly into the unknown, anchored in the promise that He goes before us. Know this, that as you surrender your will to His, you will not only find direction but peace—a peace that surpasses all understanding.

In conclusion, remember that our journey is not one of solitary navigation but of communal discipleship. Encourage one another in this race, uplift one another when you see a brother or sister faltering. Together, as a body in Christ, let us walk in the Spirit, continually seeking the guidance of our God who holds the universe in His hands. As we do, may we reflect His light, drawing others to the hope and salvation found in Him alone. Amen.