1 Peter 3:8-9
8Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 9Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
The passage shows us how to live our lives an Christians. Jesus has given us an example of being kind, living in harmony, being sympathetic, loving. Peter utters this to the church to do good, and be good.
It is tough to always be the better person, to keep loving even when ones has given you evil. But, through Christ, I will be able to live with love.
Father God, I know that I am imperfect, but You are perfect. I pray that my insufficient love for others be filled up by Your love. Allow me to be a person that does not get revenge, or does not hate, or does not be hardhearted, but to love in all situations. I can only do this with Your help, so I pray for Your Holy Spirit to guide me. I thank you so much. I love you Lord. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Living For God In A World Without
1 Peter 2:11-12
11Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. 12Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
We who follow Christ are like strangers to those around us, living a life that is for Christ. The world is full of evil, and God has called us to be in the world, living in it, but not of the world, keeping to God's Holy ways.
Sometimes, it is difficult to live my life for Christ, but as I try my best to do His good works, I hope to make a difference to those around me, praying that I may be a testament to God's glory.
Father God, I praise Your Holy name. I honor You and give you glory. I thank you for your mercy, and I thank you for giving me a full life. I pray that I may be a witness to others that they may know the love that You have given. I pray for Your Holy Spirit to continue to do the good works in those around me. Allow me to be a witness for You. I pray all this that You may be glorified in Jesus mighty name.
Amen.
11Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. 12Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
We who follow Christ are like strangers to those around us, living a life that is for Christ. The world is full of evil, and God has called us to be in the world, living in it, but not of the world, keeping to God's Holy ways.
Sometimes, it is difficult to live my life for Christ, but as I try my best to do His good works, I hope to make a difference to those around me, praying that I may be a testament to God's glory.
Father God, I praise Your Holy name. I honor You and give you glory. I thank you for your mercy, and I thank you for giving me a full life. I pray that I may be a witness to others that they may know the love that You have given. I pray for Your Holy Spirit to continue to do the good works in those around me. Allow me to be a witness for You. I pray all this that You may be glorified in Jesus mighty name.
Amen.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Strengthening Faith Through Trails
1 Peter 1:6-7
6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
Peter is recognizing the trails and suffering that Christians faced. He recognizes the difficulties that they went through, and are still going through as the letter is written. He states the importance of their trials, that it is of great worth.
It is true to some degree the saying "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Here, Peter shows us that trails that the Lord allows us to go through strengthens our faith in Christ, bringing us to a place where our faith in Him is refined.
Father God, I know it is tough to go through seasons of trial, but I pray that You are with me through it all. You said you will never leave me nor forsake me, and I take that promise. I thank you for all that you have put me through, and I continually pray that I may go through this with You to strengthen me. I thank you for all that you have done, and I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
Peter is recognizing the trails and suffering that Christians faced. He recognizes the difficulties that they went through, and are still going through as the letter is written. He states the importance of their trials, that it is of great worth.
It is true to some degree the saying "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Here, Peter shows us that trails that the Lord allows us to go through strengthens our faith in Christ, bringing us to a place where our faith in Him is refined.
Father God, I know it is tough to go through seasons of trial, but I pray that You are with me through it all. You said you will never leave me nor forsake me, and I take that promise. I thank you for all that you have put me through, and I continually pray that I may go through this with You to strengthen me. I thank you for all that you have done, and I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Walking In The Way Of The Lord
Hosea 14:9
9 Who is wise? He will realize these things.
Who is discerning? He will understand them.
The ways of the LORD are right;
the righteous walk in them,
but the rebellious stumble in them.
The righteous walk in them and the rebellious stumble in them. The way of the Lord is understandable by those who seek to be righteous before the Lord, but is a stumbling block for those who does not seek Him.
I believe that God is my Lord and my Savior, and that He is the guide in my life. Sure, sometimes it may be difficult to allow Him to direct my path, but I need to walk in His ways. It would seem even more tough for those who do not know the Lord, but I pray that they may not stumble.
Father God, I want to pray that you may not cause any one of your children to stumble, but to seek You with all our heart, mind, and strength. I ask that your Holy Spirit direct my path, and guide me in all that I do. I pray that you speak to me and reveal to me a new rhema as I grow deeper in my relationship with You. I pray this all to glorify you in Jesus name.
Amen.
9 Who is wise? He will realize these things.
Who is discerning? He will understand them.
The ways of the LORD are right;
the righteous walk in them,
but the rebellious stumble in them.
The righteous walk in them and the rebellious stumble in them. The way of the Lord is understandable by those who seek to be righteous before the Lord, but is a stumbling block for those who does not seek Him.
I believe that God is my Lord and my Savior, and that He is the guide in my life. Sure, sometimes it may be difficult to allow Him to direct my path, but I need to walk in His ways. It would seem even more tough for those who do not know the Lord, but I pray that they may not stumble.
Father God, I want to pray that you may not cause any one of your children to stumble, but to seek You with all our heart, mind, and strength. I ask that your Holy Spirit direct my path, and guide me in all that I do. I pray that you speak to me and reveal to me a new rhema as I grow deeper in my relationship with You. I pray this all to glorify you in Jesus name.
Amen.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Remebering God
Hosea 13:6
6 When I fed them, they were satisfied;
when they were satisfied, they became proud;
then they forgot me.
God is in love with His people, His children. Like a Father, He takes care of them. As they were fulfilled with their own desires, they forgot to trust in the Lord, and later became proud and forgot all about God.
It is so easy to forget about God when you don't feel that you need Him. Once we have what we want, we tend to forget that which we need. I don't want to forget about my God, because He is my supplier, my breath of Life, my redeemer, my Savior, my guide. I need Him in all that I do.
Father God, I pray that I may not forget about You, even when I have what I want, even when you have blessed me and fed me and clothed me, I want to give You all the glory. I pray that I may be humble and not selfish. I pray that I may continue to serve You in all that I do. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
6 When I fed them, they were satisfied;
when they were satisfied, they became proud;
then they forgot me.
God is in love with His people, His children. Like a Father, He takes care of them. As they were fulfilled with their own desires, they forgot to trust in the Lord, and later became proud and forgot all about God.
It is so easy to forget about God when you don't feel that you need Him. Once we have what we want, we tend to forget that which we need. I don't want to forget about my God, because He is my supplier, my breath of Life, my redeemer, my Savior, my guide. I need Him in all that I do.
Father God, I pray that I may not forget about You, even when I have what I want, even when you have blessed me and fed me and clothed me, I want to give You all the glory. I pray that I may be humble and not selfish. I pray that I may continue to serve You in all that I do. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Never Satisfied With Things That Don't Last, Focus On God
Hosea 12:1
1 Ephraim feeds on the wind;
he pursues the east wind all day
and multiplies lies and violence.
He makes a treaty with Assyria
and sends olive oil to Egypt.
Ephraim are those people that did not follow the Lord. They pursue east winds all day, never reaching their goal, never satisfied with what they have presently. They always want more.
It is useless to want more and more. Sometimes, greed can overcome a person's spirit. This passage reminds me to not let greed of earthly possession, never ever lasting, to be a focal of my life in Christ. Instead, to put my focal on my Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus.
Father God, I thank you for your Son who has given His life for my sins, so that I may be redeemed by Your grace. I thank you for the gift of Salvation, and that I may live a life with a relationship with my Father in heaven. I pray for this word that you have given to me. I pray that I may not be so possessed by earthly things, things that will not last me, but to focus on the Kingdom that is to come. I pray that You may guide me in this, that I may not stumble and fall. I thank you so much Lord. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
1 Ephraim feeds on the wind;
he pursues the east wind all day
and multiplies lies and violence.
He makes a treaty with Assyria
and sends olive oil to Egypt.
Ephraim are those people that did not follow the Lord. They pursue east winds all day, never reaching their goal, never satisfied with what they have presently. They always want more.
It is useless to want more and more. Sometimes, greed can overcome a person's spirit. This passage reminds me to not let greed of earthly possession, never ever lasting, to be a focal of my life in Christ. Instead, to put my focal on my Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus.
Father God, I thank you for your Son who has given His life for my sins, so that I may be redeemed by Your grace. I thank you for the gift of Salvation, and that I may live a life with a relationship with my Father in heaven. I pray for this word that you have given to me. I pray that I may not be so possessed by earthly things, things that will not last me, but to focus on the Kingdom that is to come. I pray that You may guide me in this, that I may not stumble and fall. I thank you so much Lord. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Great Love Of The Father
Hosea 11:9
9 I will not carry out my fierce anger,
nor will I turn and devastate Ephraim.
For I am God, and not man—
the Holy One among you.
I will not come in wrath.
God here shows the love of His people, the kindness that follows as His heart loves men. Man is imperfect, yet God is perfect, perfect in all that He does, perfect in His love for us.
This passage reminds me of the Love of my Father in Heaven. He is so awesome. He really does not want to punish us, yet he does so sometimes, and other times he shows us mercy. In the end, His love for us is so great, that I can not understand the fullness of it.
Father God, I thank you for your love for me. I know you love your children so much. Show me the love that you have, and allow me to just have a bit of that in my life. I ask that I may show the Love of my Father in heaven to those around me. I pray for your heart for your people. I ask that you be known. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
9 I will not carry out my fierce anger,
nor will I turn and devastate Ephraim.
For I am God, and not man—
the Holy One among you.
I will not come in wrath.
God here shows the love of His people, the kindness that follows as His heart loves men. Man is imperfect, yet God is perfect, perfect in all that He does, perfect in His love for us.
This passage reminds me of the Love of my Father in Heaven. He is so awesome. He really does not want to punish us, yet he does so sometimes, and other times he shows us mercy. In the end, His love for us is so great, that I can not understand the fullness of it.
Father God, I thank you for your love for me. I know you love your children so much. Show me the love that you have, and allow me to just have a bit of that in my life. I ask that I may show the Love of my Father in heaven to those around me. I pray for your heart for your people. I ask that you be known. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Living For God Through A Blessed Life
Hosea 10:1-2
1 Israel was a spreading vine;
he brought forth fruit for himself.
As his fruit increased,
he built more altars;
as his land prospered,
he adorned his sacred stones.
2 Their heart is deceitful,
and now they must bear their guilt.
The LORD will demolish their altars
and destroy their sacred stones.
What spoke to me here was the spreading of Israel's territory, of prospered land, and of fruitfulness, yet, through it all, they lost sight of their Creator and Lord. They started to do things that was not pleasing to the Lord. The disobeyed Him as they focused on their things and themselves.
It's easy to lose sight of what is important in your life according to God. I wish I would not lose sight of my focus and relationship with my Father in Heaven, even through all the blessings that He has provided me with.
Father, Lord and Creator of this awesome Universe. I ask that You always be relevant and focal in my life. I ask that I may not lose sight of You, that I may thank you and bless you for a blessed and prosperous life. I thank you for all that you have done in my life, and that I may continue to serve You in all that I do. I want to glorify you Jesus name.
Amen.
1 Israel was a spreading vine;
he brought forth fruit for himself.
As his fruit increased,
he built more altars;
as his land prospered,
he adorned his sacred stones.
2 Their heart is deceitful,
and now they must bear their guilt.
The LORD will demolish their altars
and destroy their sacred stones.
What spoke to me here was the spreading of Israel's territory, of prospered land, and of fruitfulness, yet, through it all, they lost sight of their Creator and Lord. They started to do things that was not pleasing to the Lord. The disobeyed Him as they focused on their things and themselves.
It's easy to lose sight of what is important in your life according to God. I wish I would not lose sight of my focus and relationship with my Father in Heaven, even through all the blessings that He has provided me with.
Father, Lord and Creator of this awesome Universe. I ask that You always be relevant and focal in my life. I ask that I may not lose sight of You, that I may thank you and bless you for a blessed and prosperous life. I thank you for all that you have done in my life, and that I may continue to serve You in all that I do. I want to glorify you Jesus name.
Amen.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Being Called A Fool, Being Called A Child Of God
Hosea 9:7
7 The days of punishment are coming,
the days of reckoning are at hand.
Let Israel know this.
Because your sins are so many
and your hostility so great,
the prophet is considered a fool,
the inspired man a maniac.
The passage speaks of the prophet, God's people to speak His words. Prophets, especially this prophet, was called a fool and a maniac. That is because of his unfailing faith towards God's words.
Christians have been called fools and weirdos, and maniacs before, but as His words say, we are different because God has called us not to be of this world, but to be in it, meaning we may not entirely fit in, especially when we follow God's direction. It is better to be called weird, than to miss the direction that God has given me.
Father God, I pray that you lead me in all that I do. I ask that your Holy Spirit guide me in my actions. Even if looked at by man as crazy, I know that Your wisdom is beyond man. I pray that I may be bold in You, that I may trust in You, and that You may be glorified, in Jesus Holy and Mighty name.
Amen.
7 The days of punishment are coming,
the days of reckoning are at hand.
Let Israel know this.
Because your sins are so many
and your hostility so great,
the prophet is considered a fool,
the inspired man a maniac.
The passage speaks of the prophet, God's people to speak His words. Prophets, especially this prophet, was called a fool and a maniac. That is because of his unfailing faith towards God's words.
Christians have been called fools and weirdos, and maniacs before, but as His words say, we are different because God has called us not to be of this world, but to be in it, meaning we may not entirely fit in, especially when we follow God's direction. It is better to be called weird, than to miss the direction that God has given me.
Father God, I pray that you lead me in all that I do. I ask that your Holy Spirit guide me in my actions. Even if looked at by man as crazy, I know that Your wisdom is beyond man. I pray that I may be bold in You, that I may trust in You, and that You may be glorified, in Jesus Holy and Mighty name.
Amen.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Punishment For A Rebellious Heart
Hosea 8:1
1 "Put the trumpet to your lips!
An eagle is over the house of the LORD
because the people have broken my covenant
and rebelled against my law.
The people of Israel have judgement and punishment waiting for them. They have rebelled against God, and have disobeyed His commands, so they are to be punished for their actions.
Idk why this verse spoke to me. I guess it is telling me and reminding me that there are consequences to my actions. Again, my sin is to be judged. I am to pay for my disobedience to the Lord, but by the Grace of Jesus Christ, who took that punishment for me, I can have joy in my life. Yet, to still be reminded that God judges those who rebel.
Father God, I pray for my life to not rebel against You. I ask that I may obey Your commands. I ask that You be Lord of my life. I thank you for Salvation, that I have it through grace alone. I thank you so much, for all that you have given me. I thank you for being able to share your spirit through Your words. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
1 "Put the trumpet to your lips!
An eagle is over the house of the LORD
because the people have broken my covenant
and rebelled against my law.
The people of Israel have judgement and punishment waiting for them. They have rebelled against God, and have disobeyed His commands, so they are to be punished for their actions.
Idk why this verse spoke to me. I guess it is telling me and reminding me that there are consequences to my actions. Again, my sin is to be judged. I am to pay for my disobedience to the Lord, but by the Grace of Jesus Christ, who took that punishment for me, I can have joy in my life. Yet, to still be reminded that God judges those who rebel.
Father God, I pray for my life to not rebel against You. I ask that I may obey Your commands. I ask that You be Lord of my life. I thank you for Salvation, that I have it through grace alone. I thank you so much, for all that you have given me. I thank you for being able to share your spirit through Your words. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
God's Direction Is On Target
Hosea 7:16
16 They do not turn to the Most High;
they are like a faulty bow.
Their leaders will fall by the sword
because of their insolent words.
For this they will be ridiculed
in the land of Egypt.
Israel is compared to a faulty bow. One that will not shoot the way that it is directed. Sometimes, people are a faulty bow, always going the wrong way.
We need God to bend us and mold us back to a straight bow, one that shoots straight the way and direction that He wants for us.
Father God, I pray that I may be a straight bow, one that is used by You. I ask that you may bend me to be straight for You. Shoot me in the direction that You want, and let me reach my target. You are awesome and so splendid. I give you honor and glory in Jesus name.
Amen.
16 They do not turn to the Most High;
they are like a faulty bow.
Their leaders will fall by the sword
because of their insolent words.
For this they will be ridiculed
in the land of Egypt.
Israel is compared to a faulty bow. One that will not shoot the way that it is directed. Sometimes, people are a faulty bow, always going the wrong way.
We need God to bend us and mold us back to a straight bow, one that shoots straight the way and direction that He wants for us.
Father God, I pray that I may be a straight bow, one that is used by You. I ask that you may bend me to be straight for You. Shoot me in the direction that You want, and let me reach my target. You are awesome and so splendid. I give you honor and glory in Jesus name.
Amen.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
God Desires A Change Of The Heart Instead Of Actions Without Change
Hosea 6:3-6
3 Let us acknowledge the LORD;
let us press on to acknowledge him.
As surely as the sun rises,
he will appear;
he will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth."
4 "What can I do with you, Ephraim?
What can I do with you, Judah?
Your love is like the morning mist,
like the early dew that disappears.
5 Therefore I cut you in pieces with my prophets,
I killed you with the words of my mouth;
my judgments flashed like lightning upon you.
6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice,
and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.
Hosea speaks as a prophet about the heart of the people. The people turn back to God by offering burnt sacrifices, but God does not care about the sacrifice that we present to Him as much as our intent and the heart of sacrifice.
It is so easy to just do things without a true heart. Many times we listen to people and we say things that I are just listening for listening sake, or saying things not meaning what we say. As the same, I may repent and go through the motions of serving the Lord, but my heart may not be in my actions. I need to truthfully, with all my heart, serve the Lord, not just saying it and going through the motions.
Father Lord, I pray for my heart to truthfully and faithfully serve You. I ask that You forgive me for my lack of intent and for just saying and doing things halfheartedly. I ask that Your Holy Spirit may give me strength, not letting me be swayed by the enemy, but to keep my focus on You. I thank you Lord. I love you in Jesus name.
Amen.
3 Let us acknowledge the LORD;
let us press on to acknowledge him.
As surely as the sun rises,
he will appear;
he will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth."
4 "What can I do with you, Ephraim?
What can I do with you, Judah?
Your love is like the morning mist,
like the early dew that disappears.
5 Therefore I cut you in pieces with my prophets,
I killed you with the words of my mouth;
my judgments flashed like lightning upon you.
6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice,
and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.
Hosea speaks as a prophet about the heart of the people. The people turn back to God by offering burnt sacrifices, but God does not care about the sacrifice that we present to Him as much as our intent and the heart of sacrifice.
It is so easy to just do things without a true heart. Many times we listen to people and we say things that I are just listening for listening sake, or saying things not meaning what we say. As the same, I may repent and go through the motions of serving the Lord, but my heart may not be in my actions. I need to truthfully, with all my heart, serve the Lord, not just saying it and going through the motions.
Father Lord, I pray for my heart to truthfully and faithfully serve You. I ask that You forgive me for my lack of intent and for just saying and doing things halfheartedly. I ask that Your Holy Spirit may give me strength, not letting me be swayed by the enemy, but to keep my focus on You. I thank you Lord. I love you in Jesus name.
Amen.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Not Turning Left Nor Right, But Straight Ahead To The Lord
Hosea 5: 13-15
13 "When Ephraim saw his sickness,
and Judah his sores,
then Ephraim turned to Assyria,
and sent to the great king for help.
But he is not able to cure you,
not able to heal your sores.
14 For I will be like a lion to Ephraim,
like a great lion to Judah.
I will tear them to pieces and go away;
I will carry them off, with no one to rescue them.
15 Then I will go back to my place
until they admit their guilt.
And they will seek my face;
in their misery they will earnestly seek me."
The people of Israel have turned, not to God, but to other kingdoms that they feel could save them. As it turns out, man is imperfect and no one can save except for the Lord.
In my struggles, I often times turn to my left or my right, but I should be turning to my Father in heaven. It is so easy to not put God first, but I must strive to change my direction to point to Him.
Father, I thank you for your saving grace. I pray that I may direct my path towards You. I need to focus on you. I pray against the enemy, leading me astray, and I ask that I seek You in all that I do. I pray this that You may be glorified in Jesus name.
Amen.
13 "When Ephraim saw his sickness,
and Judah his sores,
then Ephraim turned to Assyria,
and sent to the great king for help.
But he is not able to cure you,
not able to heal your sores.
14 For I will be like a lion to Ephraim,
like a great lion to Judah.
I will tear them to pieces and go away;
I will carry them off, with no one to rescue them.
15 Then I will go back to my place
until they admit their guilt.
And they will seek my face;
in their misery they will earnestly seek me."
The people of Israel have turned, not to God, but to other kingdoms that they feel could save them. As it turns out, man is imperfect and no one can save except for the Lord.
In my struggles, I often times turn to my left or my right, but I should be turning to my Father in heaven. It is so easy to not put God first, but I must strive to change my direction to point to Him.
Father, I thank you for your saving grace. I pray that I may direct my path towards You. I need to focus on you. I pray against the enemy, leading me astray, and I ask that I seek You in all that I do. I pray this that You may be glorified in Jesus name.
Amen.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Although I know, I Need To Live According To His Words
Hosea 4:6-7
"Because you have rejected knowledge,
I also reject you as my priests;
because you have ignored the law of your God,
I also will ignore your children.
7 The more the priests increased,
the more they sinned against me;
they exchanged their Glory for something disgraceful.
The knowledge that Hosea speaks about here are that people know God and His laws, but do not take them to heart and do not follow them. It is like people know what to do, but don't do what they say they will do. That is why God says that the more priests there are, the more they sin against Him. They know more of what to do, yet they choose not to obey the word of God.
God's heart pains every time I disobey Him. I know His words, and I understand them fairly well, so when I choose intently to disobey God, I am rejecting Him. There are times when I fall and sin, but I need to keep my focus on Him, not to disobey, but to keep to His words.
Father God, I pray for your forgiveness each time I sin against you. I know how much you love me, yet it pains you to have me reject you. I am sorry. I thank you for your unconditional love for me, that you have saved me by grace through Jesus. I pray for your strength to not disobey you, but to keep your words and act it out in my life. I pray that I may glorify you in Jesus name.
Amen.
"Because you have rejected knowledge,
I also reject you as my priests;
because you have ignored the law of your God,
I also will ignore your children.
7 The more the priests increased,
the more they sinned against me;
they exchanged their Glory for something disgraceful.
The knowledge that Hosea speaks about here are that people know God and His laws, but do not take them to heart and do not follow them. It is like people know what to do, but don't do what they say they will do. That is why God says that the more priests there are, the more they sin against Him. They know more of what to do, yet they choose not to obey the word of God.
God's heart pains every time I disobey Him. I know His words, and I understand them fairly well, so when I choose intently to disobey God, I am rejecting Him. There are times when I fall and sin, but I need to keep my focus on Him, not to disobey, but to keep to His words.
Father God, I pray for your forgiveness each time I sin against you. I know how much you love me, yet it pains you to have me reject you. I am sorry. I thank you for your unconditional love for me, that you have saved me by grace through Jesus. I pray for your strength to not disobey you, but to keep your words and act it out in my life. I pray that I may glorify you in Jesus name.
Amen.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Focusing On God When Not Focusing On Ourselves
Hosea 3:4-5
4 For the Israelites will live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or idol. 5 Afterward the Israelites will return and seek the LORD their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the LORD and to his blessings in the last days.
When people are taken away from what they want, they will be focused and lose their desire to be fulfilled by the things of this world, and turn and focus on God.
There are many times that I want things for myself. These times usually hinder my walk with God because I want things that disregard God as priority in my life. I pray against my flesh that these times will allow me to focus not on myself, but on my Lord.
Father God, I pray against my own flesh. I pray that the desires of fulfilling these earthly things go away, so that I may focus on You. I thank you for such a huge love you have for me. I give you praise and honor in Jesus name.
Amen.
4 For the Israelites will live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or idol. 5 Afterward the Israelites will return and seek the LORD their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the LORD and to his blessings in the last days.
When people are taken away from what they want, they will be focused and lose their desire to be fulfilled by the things of this world, and turn and focus on God.
There are many times that I want things for myself. These times usually hinder my walk with God because I want things that disregard God as priority in my life. I pray against my flesh that these times will allow me to focus not on myself, but on my Lord.
Father God, I pray against my own flesh. I pray that the desires of fulfilling these earthly things go away, so that I may focus on You. I thank you for such a huge love you have for me. I give you praise and honor in Jesus name.
Amen.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
God's Unfailing Love
Hosea 2:12-15
12 I will ruin her vines and her fig trees,
which she said were her pay from her lovers;
I will make them a thicket,
and wild animals will devour them.
13 I will punish her for the days
she burned incense to the Baals;
she decked herself with rings and jewelry,
and went after her lovers,
but me she forgot,"
declares the LORD.
14 "Therefore I am now going to allure her;
I will lead her into the desert
and speak tenderly to her.
15 There I will give her back her vineyards,
and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.
There she will sing [b] as in the days of her youth,
as in the day she came up out of Egypt.
Hosea's words is a reflection of the love that God shares with His children. He is one who wants us to come to us. Although we continue to turn away from Him, He still loves us so much. There are times where he directs us, only to turn back to Him. He cares for us and loves His children so uncomprehendingly.
This passage shows the love that God has for me. I think back of all the times that I turn away from Him, that disgraces Him, that rejects Him, and yet, I know that He is so loving that He wants to take me back. God is so awesome.
Father, You are so great and loving. I am sorry for the things that I have done in spite of You. I want to repent for the way that I have acted. I know that my life is so imperfect, yet you still choose to love me. I thank you for Christ Jesus, that I may be redeemed through His sacrifice. I pray that Your love for me change me and transform me to reflect Your holiness. I pray this in Your mighty name.
Amen.
12 I will ruin her vines and her fig trees,
which she said were her pay from her lovers;
I will make them a thicket,
and wild animals will devour them.
13 I will punish her for the days
she burned incense to the Baals;
she decked herself with rings and jewelry,
and went after her lovers,
but me she forgot,"
declares the LORD.
14 "Therefore I am now going to allure her;
I will lead her into the desert
and speak tenderly to her.
15 There I will give her back her vineyards,
and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.
There she will sing [b] as in the days of her youth,
as in the day she came up out of Egypt.
Hosea's words is a reflection of the love that God shares with His children. He is one who wants us to come to us. Although we continue to turn away from Him, He still loves us so much. There are times where he directs us, only to turn back to Him. He cares for us and loves His children so uncomprehendingly.
This passage shows the love that God has for me. I think back of all the times that I turn away from Him, that disgraces Him, that rejects Him, and yet, I know that He is so loving that He wants to take me back. God is so awesome.
Father, You are so great and loving. I am sorry for the things that I have done in spite of You. I want to repent for the way that I have acted. I know that my life is so imperfect, yet you still choose to love me. I thank you for Christ Jesus, that I may be redeemed through His sacrifice. I pray that Your love for me change me and transform me to reflect Your holiness. I pray this in Your mighty name.
Amen.
Monday, July 06, 2009
God Reuniting His People
Hosea 1:11
11 The people of Judah and the people of Israel will be reunited, and they will appoint one leader and will come up out of the land, for great will be the day of Jezreel.
Hosea is a prophet who is speaking the words of God. God speaks of restoration of His people through the prophet Hosea. He will reunite the people, both politically, and spiritually, despite what we have done.
This passage shows God's love for us. He wants to reunite us with Him. He loves us so much that He gave Jesus to us as a sacrifice for our sins. He wants to bring restoration to the human race, so that we may be as what He intended us to be.
Father God, You are so awesome. This passage just shows how awesome Your really are. You want to restore us to the glory that you first created. We have failed you so many times, yet you continue to strive to bring us to a place where we may have that relationship with You. Father, I thank you so much. I pray for the restoration of Your people, that we may all come to know the glory of heaven. I want to pray this in all things in Jesus mighty and glorious name.
Amen.
11 The people of Judah and the people of Israel will be reunited, and they will appoint one leader and will come up out of the land, for great will be the day of Jezreel.
Hosea is a prophet who is speaking the words of God. God speaks of restoration of His people through the prophet Hosea. He will reunite the people, both politically, and spiritually, despite what we have done.
This passage shows God's love for us. He wants to reunite us with Him. He loves us so much that He gave Jesus to us as a sacrifice for our sins. He wants to bring restoration to the human race, so that we may be as what He intended us to be.
Father God, You are so awesome. This passage just shows how awesome Your really are. You want to restore us to the glory that you first created. We have failed you so many times, yet you continue to strive to bring us to a place where we may have that relationship with You. Father, I thank you so much. I pray for the restoration of Your people, that we may all come to know the glory of heaven. I want to pray this in all things in Jesus mighty and glorious name.
Amen.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Sharing Your Faith Draws You Closer To Christ
Phil 1:6
6I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.
This is a call of action from Paul. He asks us to actively share our faith. Not only is that what Jesus commanded of us, but through this, we will have a better understanding of Christ.
I can see this happening. The more I do what God wants of me, the better I will understand the good thing that Christ represents. If someone is failing in their relationship with God, they can emerge themselves in their faith to draw closer to Him. I must actively share my faith, and continue to spend time with God daily, so that I may build up my relationship with my Father in Heaven.
Father God, I thank you for this encouragement through Your words. I ask that your words speak into my spirit. Allow me and encourage me to share my faith in You to all that I encounter. I pray for the moving of Your Holy Spirit in this place. I want to glorify you in Jesus name.
Amen.
6I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.
This is a call of action from Paul. He asks us to actively share our faith. Not only is that what Jesus commanded of us, but through this, we will have a better understanding of Christ.
I can see this happening. The more I do what God wants of me, the better I will understand the good thing that Christ represents. If someone is failing in their relationship with God, they can emerge themselves in their faith to draw closer to Him. I must actively share my faith, and continue to spend time with God daily, so that I may build up my relationship with my Father in Heaven.
Father God, I thank you for this encouragement through Your words. I ask that your words speak into my spirit. Allow me and encourage me to share my faith in You to all that I encounter. I pray for the moving of Your Holy Spirit in this place. I want to glorify you in Jesus name.
Amen.
Friday, July 03, 2009
Casting An Argumentative Spirit Away
Titus 3:9
9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.
Paul teaches about avoiding arguments, about bout foolish controversies, and quarrels. The Holy Spirit does not give a spirit of arguing, but it is from the enemy.
So many times, things that are foolish in Christ are the way people worship, or how holy one is. God speaks not to fight over these meaningless things, but to know the core truth of Christ Jesus and what He did. As Christians, we must not have a argumentative heart, but one that speaks truth in God's love.
Father God, you are so awesome. You are so great. Your love is like a million roses, freshness covering the scent of the Earth. Your greatness is deeper than the ocean. Speak to my spirit, and lead me in Your wisdom. I pray for Your heart. I pray against a spirit of arguments, but to have Your wisdom and avoid meaningless things. Lord, show me what is important in mind and speech. I pray that I may glorify you in all these things in Jesus name.
Amen.
9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.
Paul teaches about avoiding arguments, about bout foolish controversies, and quarrels. The Holy Spirit does not give a spirit of arguing, but it is from the enemy.
So many times, things that are foolish in Christ are the way people worship, or how holy one is. God speaks not to fight over these meaningless things, but to know the core truth of Christ Jesus and what He did. As Christians, we must not have a argumentative heart, but one that speaks truth in God's love.
Father God, you are so awesome. You are so great. Your love is like a million roses, freshness covering the scent of the Earth. Your greatness is deeper than the ocean. Speak to my spirit, and lead me in Your wisdom. I pray for Your heart. I pray against a spirit of arguments, but to have Your wisdom and avoid meaningless things. Lord, show me what is important in mind and speech. I pray that I may glorify you in all these things in Jesus name.
Amen.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Setting A Good Example
Titus 2: 6-8
6Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
There are many things that Paul tells Titus to do in this passage, but what mostly spoke to me was to set an example, to "set them an example by doing what is good."
While listening to One Love podcast today, Pastor Waxer also spoke of being an example, by having someone to mentor, to disciple. In the same way, God wants us to be examples to others. To show others what is good, as an example. In my disciplining and discipleship, I must be an example of what God's word is, through my actions, through my intent, through my spirit.
Father, I pray for discipline in my life. I want to live my life for You. Help me to do that. I pray that my life be an example of what is good, what is true, what is according to Your Spirit. I pray that you make me a witness so that others may see You through me. I pray that Your wisdom be here. Let those that need a good example find one, one that is Godly, one that is true, one that can see Your good works in them. I pray for others, that they may come to know You. I ask this in prayer, that You may be glorified in Jesus name.
Amen.
6Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
There are many things that Paul tells Titus to do in this passage, but what mostly spoke to me was to set an example, to "set them an example by doing what is good."
While listening to One Love podcast today, Pastor Waxer also spoke of being an example, by having someone to mentor, to disciple. In the same way, God wants us to be examples to others. To show others what is good, as an example. In my disciplining and discipleship, I must be an example of what God's word is, through my actions, through my intent, through my spirit.
Father, I pray for discipline in my life. I want to live my life for You. Help me to do that. I pray that my life be an example of what is good, what is true, what is according to Your Spirit. I pray that you make me a witness so that others may see You through me. I pray that Your wisdom be here. Let those that need a good example find one, one that is Godly, one that is true, one that can see Your good works in them. I pray for others, that they may come to know You. I ask this in prayer, that You may be glorified in Jesus name.
Amen.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Legalism vs. Having God's Love
Titus 1:10-11
10For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. 11They must be silenced, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach—and that for the sake of dishonest gain.
Paul is writing to Titus to encourage him as he leads the church. He teaches against rebellious people.
This passage caught my spirit as I was going over the words, circumcision group. This group means people who stick to the Jewish lifestyle and refuse to believe one can be part of God's family without this requirement. Again, it speaks of legalistic practices when talking about a relationship with God. It is not about following rules and laws, but about the love of the Father, and all else will follow.
Father God, I pray against legalism. I ask that you bind up the spirit of legalistic activity, the teachings of it, the attitude of it, and you cast it away. I ask that you may give me a spirit to yearn for Your holiness, for your Love, for your truth in all that there is. I need You, Lord. I thank you for your grace and your mercy, because without it, I would not be saved. I thank you for your loving kindness. I ask for my relationship with you get better. I thank you. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
10For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. 11They must be silenced, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach—and that for the sake of dishonest gain.
Paul is writing to Titus to encourage him as he leads the church. He teaches against rebellious people.
This passage caught my spirit as I was going over the words, circumcision group. This group means people who stick to the Jewish lifestyle and refuse to believe one can be part of God's family without this requirement. Again, it speaks of legalistic practices when talking about a relationship with God. It is not about following rules and laws, but about the love of the Father, and all else will follow.
Father God, I pray against legalism. I ask that you bind up the spirit of legalistic activity, the teachings of it, the attitude of it, and you cast it away. I ask that you may give me a spirit to yearn for Your holiness, for your Love, for your truth in all that there is. I need You, Lord. I thank you for your grace and your mercy, because without it, I would not be saved. I thank you for your loving kindness. I ask for my relationship with you get better. I thank you. I pray this in Jesus name.
Amen.
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