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Showing posts from October, 2023

The Path of Fullness

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  Fellowship with God The Path of Fullness Psalm 16:11 (KJV) Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Background Psalm 16:11 reminds us of the profound joy and fulfilment found in the presence of God. This verse, found in the book of Psalms, captures the essence of walking closely with the Lord. It says, "Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." Encourage d In our journey of faith, we often seek happiness and fulfilment in various places and pursuits. Yet, Psalm 16:11 directs our attention to the ultimate source of true joy and satisfaction: the presence of God. When we walk in fellowship with our heavenly Father, we discover a path of life that is marked by fullness and everlasting pleasure. God's presence is not limited to a physical location; it's a spiritual reality that we can exper

Intimate Fellowship with the Father

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Fellowship with God Intimate Fellowship with the Father 1 John 1:3 (KJV) "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ." Background The first epistle of John is a letter written to believers, emphasizing the importance of fellowship with God. In this verse, John shares the message he and the other disciples have witnessed and heard about Jesus. He invites believers to share in this fellowship, emphasizing that their fellowship is not only with fellow believers but with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Be Encouraged Today, as we delve into the theme of "Fellowship with God," let us reflect on the profound words of 1 John 1:3. This verse highlights the incredible privilege we have as believers: intimate fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. It's an invitation to share in the very presence of God. Imagine

God Rejoices in Our Fellowship

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  Fellowship with God God Rejoices in Our Fellowship Zephaniah 3:17 (KJV) "The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing." Background The book of Zephaniah, found in the Old Testament, reveals God's profound love and care for His people. This verse portrays God as mighty and compassionate, rejoicing over His people with joy and even singing songs of joy over them. It speaks of God's intimate presence in the midst of His children. Be Encouraged Today, as we embark on a new theme of "Fellowship with God," let us be reminded of the beautiful imagery in Zephaniah 3:17. This verse reveals a God who not only saves but also takes great joy in His relationship with us. He is mighty, and His love for us is unwavering. Imagine the God of the universe rejoicing over you with joy and singing songs of joy because of His love for you! Your fello

Rejoice in God's Love

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The Lord Cares for His Own Rejoice in God's Love Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV) "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing." Background The book of Zephaniah is one of the small prophetic books (minor prophets) in the Old Testament. This verse is a beautiful depiction of God's love and care for His people. It portrays God as a mighty Saviour who rejoices over His children with gladness, quiets them with His love, and sings over them with joy. Be Encouraged As we conclude our reflections on the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let us take heart in the profound words of Zephaniah 3:17. This verse unveils the depth of God's love for us. He is not a distant or indifferent deity but a loving and mighty God who actively works for our salvation and rejoices over us with gladness. In the midst of life's challenges and

Fear Not, God Is With You

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The Lord Cares for His Own Fear Not, God Is With You Deuteronomy 31:6 (KJV) "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." Background In the book of Deuteronomy, we find Moses addressing the Israelites, preparing them for their journey into the promised land. In this verse, he encourages them to be strong and courageous, reassuring them that the Lord their God will go with them and will never fail or forsake them. Be Encouraged As we continue our reflections on the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let's take comfort in the timeless words of Deuteronomy 31:6. This verse is a resounding reminder that in our journey through life, we need not be afraid or anxious about the challenges we may face. Why? Because our faithful God goes with us. Life can indeed be daunting, filled with uncertainties and situations that may cause fear to cr

Precious in His Sight

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  The Lord Cares for His Own Precious in His Sight Matthew 10:29-31 (KJV) "Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not, therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows." Background In this passage from the book of Matthew, Jesus emphasizes the depth of God's care for His children. He uses the analogy of sparrows, which were among the cheapest birds sold in the market, to illustrate God's concern. Jesus assures us that not a single sparrow falls to the ground without the Father's knowledge. Furthermore, He highlights that we, as His children, are of much greater value in God's eyes than these sparrows. He even knows the number of hairs on our heads. Be Encouraged Today, let's reflect on the profound words of Jesus in Matthew 10:29-31. This passage assures us of God's meticulous care for every aspect of our lives.

God's Care for the Sparrows and You

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  The Lord Cares for His Own God's Care for the Sparrows and You Luke 12:6-7 (KJV) "Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows." Background In Luke 12:6-7, we find Jesus teaching His disciples about God's attentive care. He uses the example of sparrows, small and seemingly insignificant birds, to illustrate God's concern for even the minutest details of His creation. Jesus goes on to emphasize that if God takes notice of these tiny creatures, how much more does He care for His children, knowing even the number of hairs on their heads. Be Encouraged As we embark on today's meditation under the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let these words from Luke 12:6-7 reassure your heart. It's easy to feel overlooked or insignificant at times, especially in the midst of life's

Innumerable and Precious Thoughts Towards You

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The Lord Cares for His Own Innumerable and Precious Thoughts Towards You Psalm 139:17-18 (KJV) "How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee." Background In these verses, we are reminded of the preciousness of God's thoughts toward us. These verses express the incomprehensible nature of God's care and attention to every detail of our lives. Be Encouraged As we delve deeper into the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let's ponder the profound words of Psalm 139:17-18. These verses convey the idea that God's thoughts toward us are innumerable and beyond our understanding. It's a beautiful reminder that we are always on His mind. In a world that can often make us feel insignificant or overlooked, we find solace in knowing that the Creator of the universe thinks of us continually. His thoughts toward us

He Is Close to the Brokenhearted

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The Lord Cares for His Own He Is Close to the Brokenhearted Psalm 34:18 " The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." Background The Book of Psalms, in chapter 34 and verse 18, assures us that the Lord is near to those with a broken heart and saves those who are crushed in spirit. This verse speaks of God's compassion and presence during our times of distress and emotional pain. Be Encouraged As we continue to explore the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let's reflect on the comforting words of Psalm 34:18. In moments of heartache, when our spirits feel crushed, it's reassuring to know that the Lord is not distant or indifferent to our pain. He draws near to those who are hurting, extending His arms of love and comfort. Life often brings situations that leave us feeling broken, whether it's the loss of a loved one, a shattered dream, or the weight of emotional burdens. During

Engraved in His Loving Hands

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The Lord Cares for His Own Engraved in His Loving Hands Isaiah 49:15-16 (KJV) Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me._ Background Isaiah 49:15-16 beautifully captures the depth of God's care and love for His people. These verses illustrate a powerful image of God's unwavering love and constant remembrance of His children. Be Encouraged As we dwell further into the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let us meditate on the profound words of Isaiah 49:15-16. This passage paints a vivid picture of God's love and care for us, likening it to a mother's love for her child. It says that even if a mother could forget her nursing child (which is highly unlikely), God will never forget us. Our names are engraved on the palms of His hands, a symbol of His enduri

Casting Your Cares on the Caring God

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The Lord Cares for His Own Casting Your Cares on the Caring God Matthew 6:25-26 (ESV) "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" Background In Matthew 6:25-26, Jesus directs our attention to the beauty of God's care for His creation. He reminds us not to be anxious about our daily needs such as food and clothing, for life is more than these material concerns. He points to the birds of the air, who do not toil or sow, yet our Heavenly Father lovingly provides for them. Jesus asks, "Are you not of more value than they?" These verses serve as a gentle but powerful reminder of God's attentive care for His children. Be Encouraged As we c

Casting All Your Care Upon Him

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The Lord Cares for His Own" Casting All Your Care Upon Him   1 Peter 5:7 (KJV) "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." Background In this verse from the first epistle of Peter, we are reminded of God's profound care and concern for His people. The apostle encourages us to cast all our anxieties and worries upon God because He genuinely cares for us. Be Encouraged As we continue our journey through the theme "The Lord Cares for His Own," let us take a moment to reflect on the reassuring words of 1 Peter 5:7. This verse tells us to cast all our cares and concerns upon the Lord because He genuinely cares for us. Life can be overwhelming at times, filled with worries, anxieties, and burdens. But the beauty of our faith lies in knowing that we don't have to carry these burdens alone. God invites us to release our cares into His capable hands. He is not an indifferent or distant God; He is a caring and loving Father who is conc

He Will Not Suffer Thy Foot to Be Moved

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The Lord Cares for His Own He Will Not Suffer Thy Foot to Be Moved Psalm 121:3 (KJV) "He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber." Background This verse is part of the Songs of Ascents, a collection of psalms sung by pilgrims as they journeyed to Jerusalem for festivals. Psalm 121 emphasizes the unwavering protection and care of the Lord as the ultimate Guardian of His people. Be Encouraged Today marks the beginning of our new theme, "The Lord Cares for His Own." It's a comforting truth to know that the God we serve is not passive but actively watches over us. Psalm 121:3 reassures us that He will not allow our feet to slip or stumble. The One who keeps us is vigilant and attentive, never taking His eyes off us, even for a moment. In life's journey, we often encounter rough terrains, challenging circumstances, and unexpected hurdles. Yet, we have the assurance that God, our divine Protector, is with us every

An Unshakeable Hope

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  Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive An Unshakable Hope 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (KJV) "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." Background These verses from Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians speak of the hope of Christ's return. They reassure believers that when the Lord descends from heaven, those who have passed away in faith will rise first, and those who are alive will join them in a glorious reunion with the Lord. Be Encouraged Today's meditation concludes our theme "Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive." These verses remind us of the unshakable hope we have as followers of Christ. They paint a vivid picture of the Lord's return, a day of great rejoicing

A Crown of Righteousness

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Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive A Crown of Righteousness 2 Timothy 4:8 (KJV) "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." Background The book of 2 Timothy is one of the pastoral letters written by the apostle Paul to his younger protege, Timothy. In chapter 4, Paul reflects on his life's journey and anticipates his departure from this world. In verse 8, he expresses his unwavering confidence in the eternal reward that awaits him and all who eagerly await the appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ. Be Encouraged 2 Timothy 4:8 is a powerful reminder of the hope we have as believers. It speaks of a crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to all who love His appearing. This hope is not reserved for Paul alone but is extended to all true disciples who eagerly anticipate the return of Chri

The Love of God is Poured into our Hearts

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  Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive The Love of God is Poured into our Hearts Romans 5:5 "And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us." Background The book of Romans, written by the apostle Paul, is a profound exposition of the Christian faith. In Romans 5, Paul speaks about the benefits of justification through faith in Jesus Christ. In verse 5, he highlights the role of hope and the love of God. This verse reminds us that the love of God is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, and this love enables us to hold on to hope without being ashamed. Be Encouraged Romans 5:5 beautifully illustrates how the love of God transforms our hope. It tells us that our hope is not in vain; it will not disappoint us. Why? Because the love of God is not a distant concept but a living reality within us, thanks to the Holy Spirit. This divine love strengthens our hope, assurin

For God So Loved the World

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Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive For God So Loved the World John 3:16 (KJV) "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Background Perhaps one of the most well-known verses in the Bible, John 3:16, encapsulates the heart of the Christian faith. In this verse, Jesus speaks to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews, about the transformative power of God's love. It underscores the incredible sacrifice of God giving His Son, Jesus, out of His boundless love for humanity. The verse also emphasizes the essential concept of eternal life through belief in Christ. Be Encouraged John 3:16 is a timeless reminder of the depth of God's love and His desire for a relationship with us. The phrase "For God so loved the world" resonates deeply, revealing the extraordinary lengths God was willing to go to secure our eternal life. This verse reminds us that no

Eyes Cannot See, Ears Cannot Hear

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Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive Eyes Cannot See, Ears Cannot Hear 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV) "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." Background This verse from 1 Corinthians reveals a profound truth about the future God has prepared for those who love Him. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, speaks of the mysteries of God's wisdom and plan. He quotes from the Old Testament (Isaiah 64:4) to emphasize that the blessings and glory awaiting God's faithful followers are beyond human imagination. Our finite eyes and ears cannot fully grasp the incredible wonders and eternal life God has in store for His beloved. Be Encouraged The promise in 1 Corinthians 2:9 fills our hearts with anticipation and excitement. It reminds us that the hope of eternal life is not just a vague idea but a reality too grand for human senses to compreh

No More Tears

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Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive No More Tears Revelation 21:4 (KJV) " And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. " Background The book of Revelation, filled with vivid imagery and apocalyptic visions, gives us a glimpse into the ultimate hope of eternal life with God. In Revelation 21, we find a beautiful promise: God will wipe away all tears from the eyes of His people. This verse signifies the culmination of God's redemptive plan. It paints a picture of a new heaven and earth, where there is no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain. It's a promise of eternal joy, peace, and life in the presence of our Creator, free from the suffering and trials of this world. Be Encouraged The words of Revelation 21:4 offer profound comfort and assurance. In times of sorrow, loss, and pain, I take solace in the hope that G

A Living Hope

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Keeping Hope of Eternal Life Alive A Living Hope 1 Peter 1:3-4 (KJV) "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten me again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for me." Background In the book of 1 Peter, the apostle addresses Christians who were enduring various trials and persecutions. He begins with a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ. Peter praises God for His abundant mercy, which has given us a living hope. This hope is not based on worldly circumstances but on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It assures us of an eternal inheritance in heaven, one that is incorruptible, undefiled, and imperishable. This message was meant to encourage believers facing difficulties to look beyond their present struggles to the glorious future awaiting them. Be Encouraged To