Wants over needs. We want to feel happy, we want to be similar to peers, we want to fit in, we want to keep up with the Joneses, we want stuff that never satisfies; bling, clothes, cars, a big house and status.
What do we need? We need to seek God first; seek Him for our futures, seek Him for our daily struggles like comparison traps, seek Him for provisions of community, shelter, food and peace. Peace with Him and His plans trumps the world view of constant discontent and changing cultural norms.
Status in Him seems crazy to those who don’t know Him. Yet He is our Almighty God, our Jehovah Jireh ( provider), Jehovah Nissi ( Love), and the all sufficient One, El Shaddai!!
Genesis 17:1 NLT When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am El-Shaddai-‘God Almighty.’ Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life.
Just like Abraham in the book of Genesis, our God is the El Shaddai. We must serve Him faithfully and seek to be content with what He wants to provide not our selfish desires and needs.
1 John 2:15-17 MSG Don’t love the world’s ways. Don’t love the world’s goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world—wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important—has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.
As I took this photograph of the Mt. Baker Mountain range, I was in awe of the majesty found in God and His creation. His goodness and strength is unfathomable. He is the solid rock for our life. All wisdom comes from Him.
Matthew 7:24-29 AMP “So everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, will be like a wise man [a far-sighted, practical, and sensible man] who built his house on the rock. [25] And the rain fell, and the floods and torrents came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. [26] And everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not do them, will be like a foolish (stupid) man who built his house on the sand. [27] And the rain fell, and the floods and torrents came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and great and complete was its fall.” [28] When Jesus had finished [speaking] these words [on the mountain], the crowds were astonished and overwhelmed at His teaching; [29] for He was teaching them as one who had authority [to teach entirely of His own volition], and not as their scribes [who relied on others to confirm their authority].
Seek the guidance of Your Creator God for your steps. The journey may have trials and forks on the trail of life. But you will not walk alone. No other words needed.
I am doing a mini study on the phrase “Only You”. when I ponder this phrase I realize that I must reflect this action. Only you? I make the choice to move in the authority of Christ who is in me. Only the Lord, He gives me the capacity to be strong and courageous as the Lord did for Joshua.We must be strong and courageous but not in our own abilities but in the power, might and authority of our Lord.We need to keep our focus on God. Wars raged in his times and they still rage today.
Joshua 1:7-8 AMPC Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. [8] This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
Joshua 1:9 AMPC Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
These are powerful scriptures to remind us that His promises follow each of His children. Only you can start the process of transformation by submitting to God. His Word declared aloud brings us the voice and hearing to claim its promises for our families.
Another important preparation for our next level intimacy with our God requires our action. Job 11:13-20 describes how we can prepare our hearts and hands to Him.
Job 11:13-20 NLT “If only you would prepare your heart and lift up your hands to him in prayer! [14] Get rid of your sins, and leave all iniquity behind you. [15] Then your face will brighten with innocence. You will be strong and free of fear. [16] You will forget your misery; it will be like water flowing away. [17] Your life will be brighter than the noonday. Even darkness will be as bright as morning. [18] Having hope will give you courage. You will be protected and will rest in safety. [19] You will lie down unafraid, and many will look to you for help. [20] But the wicked will be blinded. They will have no escape. Their only hope is death.”
We need to access the promises of God. We need to meditate on His Word, again declaring it aloud. Repeat aloud Job 11:13-20. Repeat over and feel the declaration change the atmosphere in your home.
Psalm 25:5-6 AMP Guide me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; For You [and only You] I wait [expectantly] all the day long. [6] Remember, O LORD, Your [tender] compassion and Your lovingkindnesses, For they have been from of old.
For only with the Lord guiding and teaching us His truth can we in expectancy be changed from the inside out. We can open ourselves up to a deeper understanding of His goodness, compassion and grace. He is a just God who wants our active participation in relationship. We must move into His arms, His truths, and be given more hope as our reward.
Psalm 25:7-10 AMP Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; According to Your lovingkindness remember me, For Your goodness’ sake, O LORD. [8] Good and upright is the LORD; Therefore He instructs sinners in the way. [9] He leads the humble in justice, And He teaches the humble His way. [10] All the paths of the LORD are lovingkindness and goodness and truth and faithfulness To those who keep His covenant and His testimonies.
If only we would worship and bow down to Him. Kneeling before our Lord, our maker! He is our shepherd, we are His sheep, the flock under His care.
Psalm 95:6-7 NLT Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the LORD our maker, [7] for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care. If only you would listen to his voice today!
He who made the heavens and earth wants you to take steps on the Rock, when we look to the mountains, we see majesty, firm foundation and endless beauty. He is the Rock on which we must stand. ( paraphrase Psalm 121)
So only you can make the decision for yourself! Your parents, families faith in Jesus may have or have not brought you wisdom in religion, however, there is a reason we each need to personally seek the Lord, Jesus. It’s a one to one partnership of wisdom, grace, mercy, comfort, help, hope, direction and peace. Ask Jesus and receive a bountiful reward. It is not only for you but for generations behind you.
Matthew 7:8 NLT For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.
Has your vision been blurry lately? Do you feel a sense of deep uncertainty, like there is a veil being placed over your eyes maybe even attempting to penetrate the mind?
It’s like a game of smoke and mirrors? One moment, we see an illumination of potential truth then the smoke blows in and we feel a bit tipsy. Perhaps it’s like drinking more than you can handle. Brain fog leads to less confidence in yourself and in the world.
The Bible tells us there will come a time when many Antichrists will vie for our attention. The voices of others may be speaking lies or half truths. How do we decipher the truth from a lie?
1 John 2:18 NLT Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Antichrist is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know that the last hour has come.
We must keep our minds meditating on what God, the author of truth speaks to our minds and souls. We can filter others words through His.
The Father of lies, the devil, wants us to be detoured from the plans of God.
God wants us to seek His wisdom for all things. There is supernatural peace when we do, our human minds can’t understand but are filled with His Presence.
Psalm 14:2 AMP The LORD has looked down from heaven upon the children of men To see if there are any who understand (act wisely), Who [truly] seek after God, [longing for His wisdom and guidance].
Smoke can be used to provide an illusion during a magicians act. When was the last time you went to a carnival or amusement park? Have you gone into the funhouse with its multiple mirrors and different distractions of unstable ground? As a kid, I found this ride to be a combination of fun and scary.
Our present times as parent, family member and friend can feel the same way. The difference is that this life is not an amusement park ride.
We must choose to seek the truth of God by accepting Jesus as our Savior and asking His Holy Spirit to be the guide of our lives. There is no other solution.
1 John 2:20,24-29 NLT But you are not like that, for the Holy One has given you his Spirit, and all of you know the truth. [24] So you must remain faithful to what you have been taught from the beginning. If you do, you will remain in fellowship with the Son and with the Father. [25] And in this fellowship we enjoy the eternal life he promised us. [26] I am writing these things to warn you about those who want to lead you astray. [27] But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true-it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ. [28] And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. [29] Since we know that Christ is righteous, we also know that all who do what is right are God’s children.
We must teach our kids the same message. There is no other truth but following the one true God and His ways. Proverbs 22:6 is a great family scripture.
Proverbs 22:6 NLT Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.
As you step into your day, realize, you get to choose which life path you take. Drop the smoke and mirrors! It will get you no where but more confused.
Brooke Ligertwood, and her song “Authority” is such a power packed declaration of the authority of God in this world. So despite the attempt to smoke and mirrors to make you confused and feel a sense of chaos, seek the authority of God. One word from Him will change the course of your life and those you love. Trust Him today.
All authority belongs to the Lord. It’s not by our strength that things prevail. The battle is the Lord’s, our job is to submit to Him, believe His promises and declare them for ourselves and for those we love.
Joshua 1:8-9 NLT Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. [9] This is my command-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Time has shown me that trials are not punishment from God. I was brought up with a legalistic religion that focused on the need to right every sin made. My inability to have children felt like a punishment for sin. However, that was a lie from Satan, I gained more insight into life as I turned my life over to His plans.
Mountains to climb
Life is filled with steep mountains to climb. We don’t have to go it alone.
My need to orchestrate my life, my career, my marriage, my potential family to be, left no room from God to be my one and only God. I was on the throne as my own God. What a thought.
Over time and trials, I am seeing how God has been molding my character and life by showing me the places I need to hand over to His plans. What do you need to hand over to God? Is it your health, your family or friend relationships? What is blocking your path to growing with Him?
Our trials bring us two options: we avoid His direction and love, which brings more fear and stress or we can bring our trials to Him and have His help for the journey. When we realize our inability to control anything in life and give it all to Him. He can work out His purpose.
If I have an unrepentant heart for past sins the enemy brings heaps of shame and guilt on our life over grace and mercy. Talk to God, repent of the sin ( my pride was an obstacle). Remove the obstacles to your relationship of love with Jesus.
Our trials may be the experience we need to realize how much God loves us and how much we need to be refined in the trial. I definitely learned, it is not about my plans but His.
“Jesus loves me” is a popular children’s song. The lyrics expressed that “when I am weak He is strong”, I wanted the yes, Jesus does love you, “the Bible to tell me so.”
We must seek relationship with God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit!
The more I broke free of the Spirit of religion, ( yes, it is a spirit from the enemy set to destroy our relationship with Jesus), by seeking God and His truths in scripture, the more I was amazed at how Jesus loved me.
You see, it has always been about Relationship with our Creator God, Jesus.
When we choose to submit our whole life to God, He brings more wisdom to equip our day. He brings more hope even if we or our loved one has cancer, or if we struggle to love ourselves, or are challenged by addictions, or mental health. We can not do life alone.
Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT Now may the God of peace- who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood- [21] may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.
Psalm 31:7 NLT I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul.
Jesus, the answer to the broken relationship of human and God, brought restoration and repair to the broken covenant. What an amazing gift of Jesus to our broken world. We need Him. He died for us, even though we are sinners.
What love Jesus has for us, His Holy Spirit is a gift of wisdom. Jesus loves you, obey His call, accept His help.
John 14:16-17 AMP And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever— [17] the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.
Amazing grace and mercy is within our grasp, just open your heart, mind and soul!
Open you hands, bend your knees and bow before the only One worthy of all our worship, Jesus.
God does have good plans for us. We must act in faith, believe He will work for our good, even when things seem impossible.
“Good plans”, a song by Red Rocks Worship, has been on my playlist daily. What an anthem to the goodness of God no matter the trial.
Good plans by Red Rocks Worship
John 14:26-27 AMP But the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. [27] Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]
Created from the dust, Adam was created by our Creator God! We are his descendents, we are dust! Just as the Lord breathed His breath of life into Adam, The same Creator God breathes life into us.
Deep breath! Go ahead take another deep breath! Breathe deep and slow to 4 counts! Now slowly release that loving lung filled oxygen, to a count of 7. Clear out the crud you may have been fighting to clear ( just like me this month), deep breathe and clear out the clogged bronchioles.
Awe, feel the awe of a cleared mind by a cleared lung. We have work to do. He knows how weak we are, He breathes His strength to heal.
Psalm 103:13-19 NLT [13] The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. [14] For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. [15] Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. [16] The wind blows, and we are gone- as though we had never been here.
The wind blows, our days on earth are unknown. What are you doing with your time?
17] But the love of the LORD remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children [18] of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments! [19] The LORD has made the heavens his throne; from there he rules over everything.
He made the heavens and the earth! He made all things. He is faithful to His children. He is faithful to those who obey His commands. His love extends to those who fear Him, in reverence and awe.
Fear of God by Brooke Ligertwood. What a powerful anthem of the praise and power when we have the fear of God!
Fear of God
Brooke sings, “Lift up your voice if God has called you to, He will give you supernatural power to do the work He calls you to do”. The Word of God supports this promise from our Creator God.
Psalm 103:8-22 NLT The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. [9] He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. [10] He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. [11] For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. [12] He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. [13] The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. [14] For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. [15] Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. [16] The wind blows, and we are gone- as though we had never been here. [17] But the love of the LORD remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children [18] of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments! [19] The LORD has made the heavens his throne; from there he rules over everything. [20] Praise the LORD, you angels, you mighty ones who carry out his plans, listening for each of his commands. [21] Yes, praise the LORD, you armies of angels who serve him and do his will! [22] Praise the LORD, everything he has created, everything in all his kingdom. Let all that I am praise the LORD.
He knows we are weak, He gives love unconditionally, let me say it again, His love remains forever with those who fear Him (respect and honor)! Praise Him alone!
2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT [5] You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake. [6] For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. [7] We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.
2 Corinthians 4 reminds us, we are fragile clay jars but contain a great treasure. Our great power comes from God! Plug into the source of all Light and illuminate His power as you walk in His ways!
Anointing oil was used in the beginning of the Bible in Exodus and it is relevant for us today! We were shown an example of the calling into the Kingdom of God with Moses and Aaron.
Exodus 29: 1 -9 Moses consecrated Aaron and his sons, to serve God as priests, and as a result in that particular scripture, anointing oil was poured over Aarons’ head to anoint him so he could bring Godly wisdom to the people.
As moms, dads, sisters, and brothers, we are called to seek wisdom from God, first, and to share it with our children. In connection with the Old Testament use of anointing oil, we use anointing oil because we are set apart; our homes and our children affect generations.
As believers under the new covenant, we are Holy by faith and the Holy Spirit working in us. The anointing oil is a New Testament mystery. We use it by faith because the apostles used it and we follow their example as Christ’s followers!
Isn’t it amazing to think God gives us the tools, the weapons of warfare so that we can guide our children and our families? We have many tools at our disposal: accepting Him as Lord and Savior, seeking the Holy Spirit, believing He is the wisdom giver including his gifts in words and tongues, prayer and intercession with Him, praise for His goodness, quality time in His Word, fasting, fellowship, and accountability with fellow believers, and anointing oil is essential to our healing.
Psalm 133:1-3 (msg) “How wonderful, how beautiful and brothers and sisters get along. It’s costly anointing oil flowing down his head and beard flowing down Aaron’s beard flowing down the collar of the priestly robes just like the dew on Mount Herman. This is where God commands the blessing, and ordains eternal life”.
1 Samuel 16:1 -13 (msg) (paraphrase)shares how Samuel was called to find a new king, and how God directed Samuel to fill his flask with anointing oil and sent him to Jesse of Bethlehem. Samuel was afraid because he was afraid of Saul. the current king would kill him and yet Samuel listened to God. Samuel followed God‘s directions, and ultimately this him to Jesse’s sons. None of the sons were considered by God to be worthy of being anointed to be the next King. Even Samuel was surprised as he went through each one of the sons, all seven, and Samuel was blunt with Jesse, and said, “Where is your other son”, then Jesse said in verse 12 “My last son the runt is tending sheep” and that was David so in verse 13 Samuel took the flask of oil, anointed David with his brothers standing around watching, and the Spirit of God entered David like a rushing wind and God vitally empowered David for the rest of his life.
So why do we use anointing oil as a spiritual weapon?
Mark 6:13 (KJV) “And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them”. Isaiah 10:27(KJV) “It will come to pass, and that day that his burden will be taken away from your shoulder, and his yoke from your neck of the yoke will be destroyed because of the anointing oil”. James 5:14 (KJV) says “Anyone sick among you let him call the elders of the church and let them pray over him, anointing with oil in the name of the Lord.”
How do we use anointing oil? I use essential oil, but you can use olive oil. Frankincense is my favorite as the home smells of the essence of Jesus ( it was at His birth and death)! Carry your Bible and declare these scriptures included in this discussion as needed. You do not battle alone He strengthens you!
Read Psalm 91 anointing your home windows and doors.
Psalm 91:1-16 NLT Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. [2] This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. [3] For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly diseases. [4] He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. [5] Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. [6] Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. [7] Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you. [8] Just open your eyes, and see how the wicked are punished. [9] If you make the LORD your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, [10] no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home. [11] For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go. [12] They will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone. [13] You will trample upon lions and cobras; you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet! [14] The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. [15] When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. [16] I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation.”
Pray God’s blessing on all who live in your home and enter it.
Anoint yourself and your family: Pray God’s provision and goodness with gratitude.
Matthew 11:28-30 ( at the neck base of the skull), anoint pillows (the visual for a yoke is an oxen attached to another to provide direction in the fields and plow for a harvest) Jesus wants us to submit or yoke ourselves to Him!
Matthew 11:28-30 NLT Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
Deuteronomy 28:1,3-6 NLT “If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the world’s nations. [3] Your towns and your fields will be blessed. [4] Your children and your crops will be blessed. The offspring of your herds and flocks will be blessed. [5] Your fruit baskets and breadboards will be blessed. [6] Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed.
Psalm 84:11 NLT For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.
Psalm 4:8 NLT In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.
Mark 12:29-30 NLT Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. [30] And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’
Use the spiritual weapons given to us by God, Ephesians 6, and live in spiritual, emotional, and physical health by the blood of Jesus despite life circumstances!
3 John 1:2 NLT Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.
Storms will rage, but Jesus calms the storm. We must believe He can. His ways are not our ways! Don’t look to the left or right, listen for the truth in the Word of God!
Luke 8: 22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. 23 As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger. 24 The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. 25 Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”
We can go through hardship and feel at our breaking point. We can feel the restless sea under our feet. Our eyes can’t see the future but we have to step out in faith and trust the One who existed from the beginning and will live in eternity. Faith will rise up in us when we believe He can calm the storms.
“Peace, Be Still” by the Belonging (featuring Lauren Daigle) shares the importance of stepping out in faith and trusting God!
Breaking free of toxic environments and people can give us a chance to start again. Freedom is within our grasp, reach out to Jesus! Whether you are a parent, friend, or family member, watching those you love in stormy times can be heartbreaking. We must cast all our cares on Him for He cares for you and your loved one.
1 Peter 5: 5 -11 5b“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers[b] all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.10 In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 11 All power to him forever! Amen.
Ask for Him to show you the path. Let the waves wash away the gritty sand and set your feet on the Rock! His foundation stands firm.
Sheep are amazing creatures! They are cuddly cute as a lamb. They are sturdy in structure, they provide wool to bring warmth on a winters day. They follow other sheep blindly at times seeking a safe well fed environment.
However, sheep are also stubborn, don’t seek the easiest path, follow the leader, even if a fellow sheep goes near a cliff. They need a good shepherd to guide them. They need a poke by the shepherds staff to redirect their steps. They can run in fear and get lost.
Humans are no different! We are stubborn, don’t seek the best path, can be led to foolishness, in fear, we can take a cliff dive without meaning too.
John 10:1-16 NLT “I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! [2] But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. [3] The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. [4] After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. [5] They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” [6] Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, [7] so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. [8] All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. [9] Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. [10] The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
The Lord is a Good Shepherd! Do not be afraid, He is our God! He wants you to lean into Him above all the noise! He is Almighty God!
He is the maker of heaven and earth ! The earth is His footstool! He wants all His children to come to Him and be saved!
Isaiah 41:10 NLT Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
He gives His children multiple chances to seek His face. He is the Ancient of Days! He is the Alpha and Omega!!
Ancient Gates is a powerful song by Brooke Ligertwood. The lyrics speak of His greatness!
Ancient Gates by Brooke Ligertwood
My pastor shared this week about this concept, He is our Shepherd, He wants us to enter His gates so we can be safe with Him. Yes, our Shepherd may need to discipline our stupidity and foolish impulsive choices. However, our Shepherd loves us and sees His children.
John 10:11-16 [11] “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. [12] A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. [13] The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. [14] “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, [15] just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. [16] I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
Despite the multiple distractions the world or others bring, praise Him in the hills and valleys. Praise for Him pushes back the darkness!!! Enter His gate and be changed for His plans. So run to Him, He is ready with open arms to lead His sheep ( He is a good, good Shepherd)!
Light, it is the thing that illuminates our path. It brightens our day. It provides a vision through the darkness. Light, it is what the Lord brings to us when we’re in the midst of storms and struggles. Light, it is what we need, today, in this dark world, more than anything else. Scripture tells us that He, the Lord, Jesus, is a light for our path. It is the guidance we need when things seem chaotic and insecure.
When God created the world and everything in it, He started with light. He created light on the first day.
Genesis 1:2-5 AMP The earth was formless and void or a waste and emptiness, and darkness was upon the face of the deep [primeval ocean that covered the unformed earth]. The Spirit of God was moving (hovering, brooding) over the face of the waters. [3] And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. [4] God saw that the light was good (pleasing, useful) and He affirmed and sustained it; and God separated the light [distinguishing it] from the darkness. [5] And God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day.
Light came from Him! He separated it from the darkness. He had plans from the beginning of time for this amazing wonder on the earth and within us!
Genesis 1:14-18 AMP Then God said, “Let there be light-bearers (sun, moon, stars) in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night, and let them be useful for signs (tokens) [of God’s provident care], and for marking seasons, days, and years; [15] and let them be useful as lights in the expanse of the heavens to provide light on the earth”; and it was so, [just as He commanded]. [16] God made the two great lights—the greater light (the sun) to rule the day, and the lesser light (the moon) to rule the night; He made the [galaxies of] stars also [that is, all the amazing wonders in the heavens]. [17] God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to provide light upon the earth, [18] to rule over the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good and He affirmed and sustained it.
With Gods’ direction, Moses lead the people of Israel through the desert wilderness. It was God’s pillar of smoke, and the light that directed their path.
God guided His people as explained in Nehemiah, God sustained them.
Nehemiah 9:11-12 AMP You divided the sea before them, So that they passed through the midst of the sea on dry land; You hurled their pursuers into the depths, Like a stone into mighty and raging waters. [12] And with a pillar of cloud You led them by day, And with a pillar of fire by night To light the way for them In which they were to go.
We also must walk in the Light despite the darkness seeming to swirl around us! Do not forget to praise in the storms, it can push away depression, anxiety and fear.
Psalm 56:10-13 AMP In God, whose word I praise, In the LORD, whose word I praise, [11] In God have I put my trust and confident reliance; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? [12] Your vows are binding upon me, O God; I will give thank offerings to You. [13] For You have rescued my soul from death, Yes, and my feet from stumbling, So that I may walk before God In the light of life.
Choosing to follow the Creator of Light by following His promises can seem impossible but nothing is impossible with God!
Psalm 112:4 AMP Light arises in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious and compassionate and righteous (upright—in right standing with God).
Seeking the Lord at these times is mandatory! He will light your path and bring hope in the darkness that is internal and eternal when we trust in Him alone. Jesus is the Prince of Peace!
Isaiah 42:16 AMP I will lead the blind by a way they do not know; I will guide them in paths that they do not know. I will make darkness into light before them And rugged places into plains. These things I will do [for them], And I will not leave them abandoned or undone.”
He wants our free will choice for His plans, we were created to make our own personal decision. He loves us and wants us to choose Him.
He tells us in Isaiah 58 what will be our reward:
Isaiah 58:8-12 AMP Then your light will break out like the dawn, And your healing (restoration, new life) will quickly spring forth; Your righteousness will go before you [leading you to peace and prosperity], The glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. [9] Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; You will cry for help, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ If you take away from your midst the yoke [of oppression], The finger pointed in scorn [toward the oppressed or the godly], and [every form of] wicked (sinful, unjust) speech, [10] And if you offer yourself to [assist] the hungry And satisfy the need of the afflicted, Then your light will rise in darkness And your gloom will become like midday. [11] And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your soul in scorched and dry places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail. [12] And your people will rebuild the ancient ruins; You will raise up and restore the age-old foundations [of buildings that have been laid waste]; You will be called Repairer of the Breach, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.
Let Him repair and restore your life bringing more of His Light to the world!
John 8:12 AMP Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
What does it mean to be baptized in Jesus Christ?
Romans 6:3-5 MSG That’s what baptism into the life of Jesus means. When we are lowered into the water, it is like the burial of Jesus; when we are raised up out of the water, it is like the resurrection of Jesus. Each of us is raised into a light-filled world by our Father so that we can see where we’re going in our new grace-sovereign country.
How can we bring His Light to others? It is not about us it is about bringing hope to others about Him!
2 Corinthians 4:5-6 MSG Remember, our Message is not about ourselves; we’re proclaiming Jesus Christ, the Master. All we are is messengers, errand runners from Jesus for you. It started when God said, “Light up the darkness!” and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful.
Our human minds can’t fully grasp how Jesus may use our life story!
1 John 1:7 AMPC But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations].
Walk in the Light, find hope in His promises, ask Him to direct your steps to His sisters and brothers, , there is freedom in His Arms. Then shine your Light for all to see Him!
Father, I am a sinner in need of Your saving grace and mercy! Please forgive me for my selfish ways, my impulsive choices that have led to death. I want new life in your love, Jesus! I repent ( turn away) from the sins that have held me captive to the enemy___________. Forgive me of my sins. Fill my life with you, Jesus! I place my life in Your hands! I give you permission to guide my path! Thank you Jesus! I want your Light to shine through me! Amen!
Inspiring Light Through the Cracks 