“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” Philippians 2:1-2 “If there is encouragement in Christ, consolation in love, fellowship with... Continue Reading →
Joined to Him
“But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.” I Corinthians 6:17 There is a part of me that understands true healing can only come through the Lord. When we allow every part of ourselves to join with Him, there is wholeness. We take our ways and submit them to His... Continue Reading →
Unaccepted Fast
“Then the Lord said to me, “Do not pray for this people, for their good. When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and grain offering, I will not accept them. But I will consume them by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence.”” Jeremiah 14:11-12... Continue Reading →
The Abstinence of Daniel
“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.” Daniel 10:2-3 This fast by Daniel is one of abstinence of specific things. He abstained from pleasant food,... Continue Reading →
To Know Him
Hosea 6:6 emphasizes that God values mercy and knowledge over sacrifices. The passage illustrates that true faithfulness to God is shown through intimate, private relationships rather than public displays of sacrifice. Knowing God deeply leads to understanding our identity in Him, and genuine love for Him should stem from this relationship, not obligation.
Broken Cistern
The author reflects on the biblical message from Jeremiah 2:13 about forsaking God and relying on flawed self-made solutions. They acknowledge past struggles with prioritizing their relationship with God and recognize the importance of keeping faith and intimacy with Him above all other commitments. Surrender and obedience are key to receiving God’s living water.
Responsibility for Growth
The passage emphasizes that God has appointed apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip and edify the body of Christ. Individual growth in faith and understanding is a personal responsibility. Maturity is essential to avoid being misled and to contribute positively to the body, highlighting the importance of unity and support within the community.
Build Yourself Up
The author reflects on the importance of intentionally building faith through prayer and scripture, while also recognizing personal responsibility in maintaining love and grace, especially during challenging moments. Despite experiencing hurt in marital interactions, the emphasis is on self-awareness and the need for mercy, grounded in a faithful relationship with God.
Hoping and Eagerly Waiting
The author expresses hope inspired by Romans 8:24-25, emphasizing the importance of unseen hope and perseverance. Anticipating a holiday trip to Arkansas to spend time with grandchildren, they reflect on a previous stressful journey. The author also contemplates their hopes in relation to God’s promises.
Waiting for Him to Save Us
Isaiah 25:9 emphasizes the joy of waiting for God's salvation and restoration. The passage reflects on the necessity of patience after repentance, highlighting that immediate restoration is not always granted. True faith requires enduring consequences rather than treating God as a quick-fix solution for our mistakes.
Restoring Voice 