Try to stay conscious of Me as you go step by step through this day. My Presence with you is both a promise and a protection. My final statement just before I ascended into heaven was: Surely I am with you always. That promise was for all of My followers, without exception.
The promise of My Presence is a powerful protection. As you journey through your life, there are numerous pitfalls along the way. Many voices clamor for your attention, enticing you to go their way. A few steps away from your true path are pits of self-pity and despair, plateaus of pride and self-will. If you take your eyes off Me and follow another's way, you are in grave danger. Even well-meaning friends can lead astray if you let them usurp My place in your life. The way to stay on the path of Life is to keep your focus on Me. Awareness of My Presence is your best protection.
Matthew 28:20
English Standard Version
teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Hebrews 12:1-2
English Standard Version
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.
Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.
Thank you Lord for your words of hope!
ReplyDeleteThank You, Father.
ReplyDeleteEvery day I read these year after year and they always mean so much more each time. I especially like the "Labels" that I can go to for extended reading, hopefulness and faith. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I usually read my book, but sometimes I'm away from it and am very thankful for this online version and the extra insights and prayers.
DeleteOne of the witnesses in the cloud that surrounds you and me is Teresa of Avila (1500’s). She labored like Martha and spent countless hours at the feet of Jesus like Mary (cf. Luke 10:38-42). From her writings comes this pearl of wisdom:
ReplyDelete“Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. All things are passing away. God never changes. Patience obtains all things. Whoever has God lacks nothing. God alone suffices.”
The cloud of witnesses after having lived in faithfulness to God have taken their seat in the stands and are cheering you and me on with their prayers. As they did, let us run with endurance this race before us with our focus always being on our Lord & Savior Jesus.
Thanks Bob! Teresa of Avila’s words spoke volumes to me. As a former marathon runner, I know how I have always trusted the Lord to strengthen me and carry me to the end of my marathons. He has done it 5 times and I truly felt I was walking in the palm of His hand during the last 5 miles of all of them. He is ever so faithful. And always will be.
DeleteI am reading this laid up with ice on my upper calf from a muscle strain. How I am longing to run and play and get the exercise I need to feel healthy and strong in this finish! Ice is my friend for the next few days, and your prayers are appreciated. Thank you Jesus for this opportunity to be even stiller in your Presence.
DeleteAudra, prayers for you now, I understand. Bob thank you for the simplicity yet profound from Teresa of Avila. I wrote it down to read again.
DeleteJust saw this a day later dear Audra. So sorry you're having a hard time with your calf. Praying for you that God is healing you and you will be just in time. Yes this time to rest is a gift from your Father. He knows just what we need.
DeleteMy Mum and Dad too are among the cloud of witnesses and numbered with the Saints having finished the race set before them. They laboured for the Lord well into their 90's. The race goes not to the swift or famous but to those who endure to the end.
DeleteThat's a beautiful picture of the clouds of witnesses, I expect my folks and siblings are there are well
Deletegod where are you when will I have peace nothing but worries and problems. why have faith if nothing changes just gets worse and worse.
ReplyDeleteDo not accept your misery: surrender it to God. Nothing matters but Him, including relief. When He becomes everything, then the rest follows...including relief & deliverance.
DeleteAmen!!! Thank you, very well said!
DeleteUnknown Unknown;
DeletePlease keep the faitk, I have been in many dark places where I allowed my faith to wither, although knowing all along my faith would be what would get me through and crying out to the Lord for strength.
He is there for you waiting for you to ask for help.
I'am learning more and more to be thankful for trials( a tuffy sometimes ) but we are suppose to be thankful for trials.
" KNOW THAT THE LORD OF LIGHT LOVES YOU ".
Praying for you.
PEACE ��
Unknown Unknown;
DeleteYou are known by our Father; he knows your trials, give everything to him, he loves you because you are his child.
He tells us " MY PEACE I GIVE TO YOU, MY PEACE I LEAVE WITH YOU "
PRAYING FOR YOU.
Unknown Unknown, I pray you have seen the faithfulness of God and your heart has been revived and renewed. God bless you always.
DeleteMy dear friend shared this with me last night. A poem called "The Difference"-author unknown
DeleteI got up early one morning and rushed right into the day. I had so much to accomplish that I didn't have time to pray.
Problems just tumbled about me and heavier came each task.
Why didn't God help me? I wondered;
He said, "But you didn't ask."
I wanted to see joy and beauty but the day toiled on gray and bleak.
I wondered why God didn't show me,
He said, "But you didn't seek."
I tried to come in to God's Prescence
I used all my keys in the lock.
God gently and lovingly chided,
"My child you didn't knock."
I woke up early this morning and paused before meeting the day.
I had so much to accomplish that I had to take time to pray.
Audra! I have a needlepoint with this on it. I bought it for my son and his wife for this Wedding but it was too big to ship so it's in his old room and I read it yesterday and it blessed my heart as usual. Hope your calf is getting better.
DeleteSo simple Audra, yet so powerful!. Thx!
DeleteLord I thank you for your faithfulness because sometimes I do forget about you and how amazing you are especially in times where things are going good I have to remind myself that it’s all about you
ReplyDeleteAll praise and glory to you lord in all areas of my life AMEN
J.Doc Glasgow
Jesus
DeleteZebediah Name Woulds Pray In
DeleteMy Bible Gateway verse for today:
ReplyDeleteTherefore you are great, O LORD God. For there is none like you, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears. - 2 Samuel 7:22 Thank you Father, Amen!!
Amen, Sassy Mom, Amen!
DeleteZEBEDIAH
DeleteCorrection: Therefore YOU are great .......For there is none like YOU, there is no God besides YOU
ReplyDeleteI'm so thankful for the gift a good night's sleep, Father! You working in my heart while I rest allowed me to wake up to another day, thankful, mindful of You.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I have been enjoying The Message. After learning of 3 people (in 2 days) who are now awaiting the Return, I woke up this morning, fully rested and just thanked God for my life and the lives of my loved ones. I had the realization that I don't have to worry about my future - I know what it is. Do I want to spend the next 20-30 years (if, by His grace, I have that long), mulling over the 'what-if's' in life? I once again gave my husband, my children, my home, my friends into His care, because He cares for all of us and more than I could ever attempt to.
"A few steps away from your true path are pits of self-pity and despair, plateaus of pride and self-will. If you take your eyes off Me and follow another's way, you are in grave danger. Even well-meaning friends can lead astray if you let them usurp My place in your life."
This morning, I am praying for my dear sister in Christ, who will be taking her 24 year old daughter for her cancer test. I pray for her peace, for her daughter's perfect health and for comfort and love that she receives from Him every day. Let her heart be at peace, Father, in the name of Jesus Christ.
And I'm praying for my loved ones who now have loved ones awaiting the Return. Remind them that they will see them again and they will be whole and pure and blessed. Remind me of these things, Lord, when my heart 'goes astray.' "Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you." Isaiah 41:10 (The Message)
Rest assured, dear JC Family, that you are in my prayers. I pray that your needs are met, your hearts are soothed and that you give your cares to the One who gave His only begotten Son, so that you could confess with all confidence that He has gone before you.
Thank you for this site, Peyton Family!
BEAUTIFUL AND RECEIVED! Continued prayers and in faith we know GOD is there! IN HIS LOVE
DeleteAmen dear Norah. No reason to fear the future! We put our loved ones in the care of their loving Father and our future in His Hands. The Christ in you is so incredibly beautiful! I love you Sis!
DeleteAsking for prayers from this JC FAMILY for the Payton Family. Chris posted last night that his Mom was called home last Sunday night. He shared it has been hard for their family. Thank you JC Family for surrounding them with
ReplyDeleteYour consoling prayers. Chris has been such a blessing to ALL of us. God bless you Chris. May the Lord hold you tight in His loving arms.
Chris and Family, please know that your JC Family are lifting you all in prayers for God's strenght and confort at this difficult time. His Presence is with you. Lean on Him, keep trusting Him, even in this dark hour. We join our voices in prayer and love for your family.
DeleteFather, in the name of Jesus, we lift Chris and his family up to You. Thank You for embracing them in Your loving arms and granting them comfort, strenght and Peace. Thank You for Your Presence that will NEVER leave them. Please surround them with love and support from family and friends today and the days ahead. We know that they already have Your love and support. Thank You and be glorified, in Jesus name.
Maplewood NJ
JJ, thanks for informing the group. God bless you! We are in prayers together.
DeleteMaplewood NJ
Prayers for peace for you and your entire family during this difficult time, Chris. Thank you for forming this blog.
DeleteBlessings. Condolences extended to your family,Chris.
DeleteSaying prayers for Chris and the entire Payton family during this difficult time. May you all find the peace and strength to get through this struggle, and may you remember the good times shared with your mom/grandma/mother-in-law. May she be enjoying heaven with Our Lord. God's blessings to all of you! CO
DeletePayton Family:
ReplyDeleteMay you feel God's presence surrounding you with His comfort and peace. God is present in this time of sorrow and longs to be the arms that you run to. Mary okc
Seems like Winter is fast approaching this fall morning on the east coast, but Your Love and mercy oh Lord, will never change like the weather. It remains the same. You are the same yesterday, today and forever. Your Presence never leaves us.
ReplyDeleteWhen we feel as though You are not near, it is NOT because You have left, it is because we have disconnected from You, failed to acknowledge You and Your Presence. We get carried away in pain, sorrows or disappointments and feel You have forsaken us in our trials, but You have not or when some are blessed, they forget the SOURCE of their blessings. Please FORGIVE us oh Lord. May we draw ourselves closer to Your Holy Spirit no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in.
May we sing with the choir:'Your Presence is Heaven to me', because there is UNSPEAKABLY JOY being in Your Presence.
Thank You for Life today and Thank You for Your always present PRESENCE!
Lifting the broken hearted, the grieving and all those who feel the Lord has left them. Please take joy in this devotion and be reminded that the good Lord is ALWAYS with you, just waiting for you to call out to Him, in trials or not, He wants to embrace you in His loving arms and give you that light at the end of Your dark tunnel.
His PRESENCE is a Promise, don't forget that! Love and Peace to all as we stay in the Presence of our Lord.
Maplewood NJ
Thank you dear Maplewood and Amen! Beautiful words of truth and encouragement! He has heard our cries and His mercy and compassion are never ending. He is just waiting for our loved ones and all lost souls and the broken hearted to come to Him to be comforted, redeemed and saved. Thank you Jesus!
DeleteRE: Your Presence Is Heaven To Me, While relistening to this really beautiful song, I re-read a comment which read, WOW!...as I'm listening to this really beautiful song I feel so relaxed, redeemed, restored, refilled, reformed, rebuilt, rehonoured, renewed, refreshed, reproduced, rededicated, refounded, reflowed, repaired, repacked and relocated by the presence of God...thank you Jesus Christ...Amen. Amen. Amen.
DeleteGood morning Brie! Sounds like you got some needed R & R and then some! Thank God for such a blessing and hope that Larry is feeling the same.
DeleteWow Brie! Sounds like you experienced a good ole spiritual shot in the arm👏. That should set a beautiful start of your day. I could use an ample serving of the same.
Delete♥️🎶 Your Presence is Heaven to me https://youtu.be/bGdphVx_V-o
DeletePeace, love, and rest to the family. Your brothers and sisters appreciate and love you.
ReplyDeleteJ.Doc Amen. Thanks for the reminder. It is easy to forget about God when life is going great. Things have gotten so much better for since just a short time ago when I came here asking for prayers for my alcoholism. I try not to forget the glory goes all to God. I pray every day and thank God for this wonderful life I have. I pray that I never forget. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi JC family. Actually wrote a posts and lost it like others have experienced as well. lol
ReplyDeleteShort on time so simply asking for prayers of wisdom on how to proceed with the woman I love. And if it is God's will, to draw her heart back to me.
Sending prayers your way. The Lord has your situation in hand.
DeletePraying peace for Chris and his family @paytonfamily. Losing a parent is the natural order of life, but that doesn't make it any less challenging. May God, friends, and family help you in this time of grief. Godspeed.
ReplyDeleteLord let me focus on You today and let nothing stand in my way. Protect me from my own careless thoughts, words, and actions. Let me put You 1st and acknowledge You in all things. I want to grow my love and relationship with You.You are the source of all I need and suffice for everything. Lord, I reach out and ask for Your protection from my own careless wants and needs so that my focus may be on You and Your will. Amen
ReplyDeletePraising God today and always as he leads me through my journey. Blessings to you all and extended prayers going out to the Payton family during their time of sorrow. Stay close to The Vine!
ReplyDeleteJC Warriors, please pray with me, The God of RESTORATION will restore mother - daughter relationship between "A" (one of my "other kids" I'm not involved)and her mother.
ReplyDeleteSaying prayers now, Sassy Mom! CO
DeleteSassy Mom-- Prayers are on the way. Bless you Sassy Mom for your love of people!
DeleteThank you for the reminder that God is with us always! It always helps me to see it and practice believing it.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lord, for a productive counseling appt today. We are struggling, and You keep holding us in your arms. You are The Way, The Truth and The Life! Jesus, I trust in You! Amen. CO
Amen CO, Amen!!! Well prayed!!!
DeletePraying for Chris and his family. For encouragement, strength, and comfort as they remember his mother. As I go through this week, I will try to keep a perspective that life is short and that each person is precious. I praise God for this blog. I read it every day and rarely post, but feel so grateful for like minded believers. Its refreshing. Wherever you are in the world, God bless you JC family. He is good.
ReplyDeleteFree as can B --- Bless you for your post. So good to know you are out there. This JC FAMILY just keeps growing. Hallelujah!
DeleteAgreed. And yes life is short. I felt in my spirit today that my dad's days here on earth are short as his heart is failing. Going to hug him next time I see him.
DeleteChris, thinking of you and your family as well. We only have one mother and one father.
THOUGHTS ON INTIMACY WITH OUR LORD
ReplyDeleteOur first reading should always be scripture, God's Word to us. So how does one decide what to read? There are many directions that can be chosen at this point. The one caution is to be aware of the tendency to only read the things we like or not choosing readings (like OT readings) we are not interested in. The ego masks itself as the Holy Spirit many times. You can find online, several versions of the Revised Common Lectionary which suggests readings for the day. I use a form of it so that I am led to read scripture rather than only reading what I 'feel like' reading. There are times that I am given a strong sense to read through a book of scripture and if that be the case, I do so over a period of time, only reading short passages at a sitting. The point I strive for in my devotions is to quiet my personal desires so I can be led in reading. I try to keep my choosing of scripture to a minimum. If all of scripture is inspired (and it is), then in all of scripture God has something to say whether I find it on my favorites list or not.
An example of the above was after Pentecost this past summer, when the readings associated with the resurrection were completed, I was seeking what to read next. II Timothy surfaced in my devotional. To be honest, though I had taught the epistle in bible studies, I had never used II Timothy for my readings in my devotional time so this was a bit of new territory for me. For the months of June and July, I was led to take a very slow walk into II Timothy and blog here my experience. Needless to say, I was richly blessed in listening to God and writing to you. This is an example of how I was led in the reading of scripture in my devotional time.
I cannot tell you what to read but the Holy Spirit will be more than happy to. Open your heart, seek to be led, and follow in the daily reading scripture.
An additional thought to connect with our JC reading above, one way to stay connected to Him as He desires throughout the day, is to take a sentence or phrase from your reading and repeat it continuously throughout the day. That will help to keep bringing you back to His presence you had on your morning 'date' with Him.
Just some thoughts for the Spirit to use in leading you in your intimate experience with our Lord.
Be blessed this day! God be with you. With love, Bob
Thank you Bob. God bless you.
DeleteThank you Bob. All scripture is God-breathed and useful for training in righteousness. Thank for for the encouragement.
DeleteThanks Bob - for your words in 2020 and in 2018. Very enlightening and blessed. KS
DeleteThank you always Bob for your loving advice as we go along our Faith journey. The Lord walks beside us and His Hand is unchanging and always there t hold:
DeleteMore great thoughts and encouragement, thank you Bob!
DeleteYes indeed, it is the LIVING WORD!
DeleteThank you Bob for sharing your experience with us. Your words are so helpful and a wealthy blessing added here. God Bless you.
DeleteMindy, Jeanne, and Norah from yesterday but to all of the JC team here. As discussed earlier by using a pseudonym, as others do, I can keep co-workers, family, and friends from being identified and troubled by my thoughts here. So, with confidentiality to protect those unaware of my circumstances but to still share God's grace and love from my walk, I opened up after being a bystander for a long period of time.
ReplyDeleteWith that far too long of a set-up, I have not gotten with the specialist of my health challenge however results with my primary doc were duplicated in a second test. I've now seen the 3rd test results with the specialist and they confirm what appear to be unfavorable results. I will update the blog on Friday as my visit and some other tests will be done today (10.15th). Regardless of the diagnosis or prognosis, I have lived a very blessed and fruitful life. I have no right to a pity party when you think of 3rd world country citizens, refugees in the Middle East, and our soldiers in their early 20s returning from wars without limbs. God has my hand and THIS team and soon others will have my back. I am blessed and as I read from Brie's post and agree with... "it is well with my soul." Thanks for your prayers. Amen
Non-stop Prayers are going up for you, Madfox. God's Blessings will come down. Thanks so much for sharing with us. I love praying for you. Glad all is well with your soul. Love, Brie
DeleteFather, wrap Madfox up in Your loving, healing arms and let Your spirit flow abundantly through him. Give him what he needs right now and keep him close in Your heart. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏. Thank You Jesus. Praise the Lord continually and always.
DeleteMadFox --- I thank my Gracious Lord, that your name, MadFox, is written on the palm of His hand, and that He knows all of your days before a single one came to pass, according to His word in Psalm 139:16. Lord, please show MadFox, Your perspective of his circumstances, so that he can see them the way You do. I thank you, my Gracious Lord, that Your Holy Spirit is with MadFox, and You comfort him, fill him with hope and surround him with Your love. I thank you my Gracious Lord, that You always walk though the deep places with us. May MadFox's life bring you glory and honor and praise. In Jesus' precious name I pray, AMEN and AMEN. You are loved, MadFox!!!
DeleteEchoing all prayers for Madfox. We love you!! Thank you for sharing your love with everyone you encounter. Thank You Jesus for Madfox.
DeleteAgreeing with the JC warriors for you, Madfox. God loves you with an everlasting love. Praying for you and your precious family.
DeletePraying for you and with you MadFox. God has showered blessings all around you. KS
DeleteYES, echoes from me too. I can't say anything they didn't say. I've been alone for some time now and taking care of my 93 year old mother has often scared me. My Bible Study leader told me in the spring when Covid-19 hit to picture being under Jesus's protective wing. That mental picture has help me tight every day since then. I want to give it to you. Thanks for the opportunity to share and pray with you!. Love, Kathy
DeleteJoining in prayers for you and your loved ones dear Madfox. Thank you for opening up. The Lord bless you and keep you, make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. Amen
DeleteBlessings from France
Thank you, MadFox, for allowing us in. It is an honor and privilege to pray for you. I, too, join in the continuous prayers for you and your family. May you feel God's loving arms around you and may your family feel Him too. With love, Nancy
DeleteMadFox, I am joining all JC family in prayer for you and your family! May He protect and heal you. May His peace surround you! Love and blessing to you!
DeleteDear Brother MadFox, we will get through this together. Prayer is our greatest resource though we do not see all that it is accomplishing. But the prayer warriors of this blog have proven themselves in their devotion to praying for one another and that is enough. We live in hope (an expression I often heard from my Jewish brother-in-law as his wife, my wife's sister, was dying of pancreatic cancer). God be with you.
DeleteDear Brother, I am joining in all prayers for your healing. May God comfort your heart and give your mind a rest. Whatever trial you are facing God already knows and He is writing your future. You have been a faithful servant of the Lord and He will remain with you through every moment of every day and always. You have seen His faithfulness many times and You know He will guide you forever. Praying that miracles are coming and the Way Maker is already making a way for you to recover completely. Don’t lean on your own understanding. Instead, lean on the Everlasting Arms. You’re always in my prayers dear Brother. His light is shining even brighter to light your wilderness. Look up from where your help cometh. Much love
DeleteI can't think of anything to add to this beautiful circle of prayer warriors words, I am joining hands in prayers for you.
DeleteMadFox, I can comfortable in stating that all of us on this site are blessed to "know" you! I join my voice with our JC family in prayers to our Lord for you and your family!
DeleteYou are loved MadFox by all of us..Jesus loves you more. We are praying without ceasing. Peace be with you and yours.
DeleteAhhh, MadFox - finally, we hear from you. You've been SO on my heart! Whatever it is, whatever the 'Specialist' says, OUR Specialist, has given His life for YOU, and to have it MORE than abundantly. You are in my prayers, as always. You have this whole, big, JC Family praying for you, each step of the way. Love you, my friend.
DeleteThank You Jesus. Help me keep my eyes on You Lord. If I am distracted, bring my eyes back to You. Praise the Lord forever and always.
ReplyDeleteAmen dear Janet. Jesus, Help me, I trust in You. Remind me to stay in Your Presence.
DeleteAlmighty Loving Father, Thank You that Jesus is ‘Immanuel... God with us’ (Matthew 1:23). Thank You that Your kingdom is among us now and one day You will return and I will see You face to face and be with You forever. Thank you that I get to experience a foretaste of these blessings here on this earth and will one day experience them fully, in Your visible presence. Thank You for the peace, joy, security and protection felt in Your presence. Your Omnipresence is real, You are everywhere all the time. David cried out in Psalm 139:7, “Where can I go from Your Spirit?” May I never lose the conscious awareness of Your presence, but count it all joy that Your Spirit lives permanently in my heart, never leaving nor forsaking me. Please forgive me for all the times I may have ignore Your presence being preoccupied with my agendas and the care of this world. When I rest in You, look to You and trust You, I know that I will be able to do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
ReplyDeleteMay Your Holy spirit fill me afresh and cause me to always be consciously aware of Your presence. It is YOU I seek and can hear You say like You said to Jacob, “I will be with you” (Gen. 31:3). This promise was fulfilled with the coming of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Thank you Lord. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Sassy Mom- rejoicing and thanking God for Connie’s G. negative results!!!! Jehovah Rapha is too good!
Xavier Hill- Oh my brother, what heartfelt cry to the Lord! Jesus is so proud of you for acknowledging your faults and is right there with you to help you! Trust Him, He will take care of you. God bless you!!
God’s daughter- Praying with and for you. God is the a Restorer of relationships. Keep crying out to Him, one day soon He will give you a reason to testify. I’m a witness. Was estranged from some family members for a long time, but God restored our relationship. He is able. I echo Sassy Mom’s note of Joel 2:25.
Brie- Thank you for sharing in yesterday’s post: “THE INSPIRING STORY BEHIND THE SONG: “IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL”!!!!! So good to know!
Lifting ALL other prayers to our Father and trusting Him for more testimonies!
Also, praising and thanking Him for all other victories and healing testimonies! We serve a Mighty Great God! The glory is all HIS!
Blessings and Peace.
Maplewood, NJ
Wonderful prayer, Maplewood. Peace always. KS
DeleteAMEN Maplewood. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and prayers.
DeleteAmen Maplewood. Praying with you and thanking you for your prayers. Praying always for you and your little sister Janet.
DeleteThank You Lord, for the promise of Your presence and protection for the dangerous pit falls I encounter along my path. Thank You for the blessing of your provision and abundant love. Sharing all victories and lifting all mentioned prayers to our heavenly Father.
ReplyDeleteDear MadFox ...keeping you and your family in my prayers...You are a beacon to others. May your light continue to shine Strong. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteBlessing Prayers requested for our daughter on her 44th birthday. May she keep her focus on God and always be aware of His Loving Presence and His Forgiveness, no matter what. "Surely I am with you always!" May His promise be firmly embedded in her heart and in her life. I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank. I yield. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
ReplyDeleteFather, Bless and guide your child, Brie's daughter on her 44th Birthday. Protect her, give her good health and keep her heart and mind focused on You. Guide her steps to joy, fulfillment, love, peace and Your Glory. Show her that You love her just as she is and always will. Thank You in the Name of Jesus.
DeleteJoining in prayer with Jeanne and Brie. Father, give Brie's daughter a blessed day and draw her near to You and all Your goodness and glory. Let Your presence be known to her. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
DeleteHappy happy birthday beloved daughter of Brie!! ❤️
DeleteHappy anniversary, Brie, on the birth of your beautiful daughter and happy birthday and blessings to her! Knowing your child is grounded in their faith is so very comforting. (I have one that is and one that isn't but continue to pray for him to come back to the Lord) Thanks for sharing your birth-day anniversary of your daughter with us, Brie. What a happy day that was and what great memories you have to reflect back on! Such a blessing!
DeleteA Happy Birthday blessing to your daughter Brie🎊🎶🎉🎁🎂. May she celebrate the goodness of Her God for gifting her the 44 yrs. May she realize her heavenly mission for the rest is it. Praying your DH is mending. Also that Keith is doing better. You're all in my prayers🙏💕
DeleteWe must continue to pray for our unsaved dear ones. They are all still in His Hands and we have planted in them the seeds of faith to grow in God’s timing.
Delete"Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for He has said, 'I will never leave you or forsake you.'" (Hebrews 13:5). "The Lord Your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing." (Zephaniah 3:17). "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9).
ReplyDeleteHeavenly Father, thank You for always being with me. Praise You Lord always. You are such a wonderful Father. I am not worthy of You, but I am so grateful that You love me so much and that You are always protecting me and are there for me. I can't do anything apart from You and I need You always. Please guide me and give me good discernment. Thank You Jesus. Thank You for all that You are doing in my life and for everyone You are placing around me. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
YES! Lord, I am joining into Janet's prayer, in Jesus' Name. Amen
DeleteMe too dear Janet. In Jesus' Name. Amen. Hallelujah!
DeleteYour prayer is my prayer! Thank you and Amen dear sister!
DeleteIn awareness of Jesus Presence 'I Speak Jesus' over all JC folk, situations, circumstances and needs. https://youtu.be/FpGYImM_VeM
ReplyDeleteThank you Peter! May God richly bless you and answer your prayers and all our prayers! Thank You Jesus.
DeleteGood morning and May the peace of Christ be with you this day! Audra, thank you for that poem from last year. It’s a great way to Surat each problem, each day. It’s kind of odd that people often get to a point during a trial where it gets really bad and then they say, “Well all we can do now is pray.” Prayer must be our first response, but that’s not always how we react. I pray that we may always look to the father first, to revoke the evil one and ask his devotions and to surrender everything unto the Lord.
ReplyDeleteAnd so I ask for a special prayer today as we are saying farewell to a special friend as we euthanize our dog Colt this afternoon. He’s been such a blessing to our family and friends; a loving companion and friend - gift from God. It’s been a rough week preparing for this, especially since we just had a funeral for my uncle last week and my wife’s job just got more unbearable with more COVID cases to work with and in transiting between jobs. Trying to run this leg of the race with endurance, hope and trust.
May you each be richly blessed this day with the Love of God, the peace of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!
Praying for you Rich C. Praying for you and your wife in these challenging times. Praying for jobs to fit and provide and give hope. Praying as you release precious Colt. That is such a gut-wrenching time. Glad you could have loved and been loved by Colt. ❤️
DeletePraying with and for you Rich, May you feel His Presence near. now and throughout the transitions. in Jesus' Name. Amen.
DeleteGod be with you and your family Rich C. Prayer is nothing to roll eyes at. "Pray without ceasing". Those that come to this blog at all hours know the power of prayer and believe and trust that God hears each one. Holding all in His loving arms, we are blessed with his Peace. May it shower down upon you today Rich C and everyone. ✝️🙏♥️
DeletePraying for you Rich C and your entire family. It is so tough to lose our furry family members. I pray for peace and strength to deal with all the challenges you're going through. JE
DeleteRich, praying for you and your wife today as you say goodbye to your Colt. Our furry family members give us THE BEST welcoming each day and are the best therapists by far. A tough day for you both for sure. May the memories you've shared with Colt bring you comfort in the days ahead, Rich, and may God bring you thru these trying times for you and your wife. In Jesus' mighty name, AMEN.
DeleteDear Rich C. I remember so well preparing for our dog Molly. The day before I gave her a bath, took her for her walk in the woods, just nuzzled her, took final pictures with our grands, hubby & her. We sobbed for weeks, & still do when we think of her & talk to her when we pass her grave sight. Her love for us was unconditional as your beloved Colt for you. Let's both be thankful that God gifted us with Colt & Molly. She was 17 yrs. Old. Praying that your wife will receive strength to bear under her work load. Comfort for the loss of your uncle. In Jesus' Name. Amen
DeleteSuch a sad thing to say goodbye to a true family member and loyal friend. Joining prayers for your comfort. You and your wife are dealing with much loss and your uncertain job situations. God bless and guide you both. Hold tightly to His unchanging Hand as you bravely say goodbye to Colt. God knows well the feelings you are experiencing because He knows your hearts intimately. Lean on His promises.
DeleteSorry for the typos there…. Early here and I’m sleepy. Meant to say “rebuke Satan” and that I am transitioning between jobs. Blessings🙏😁
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday blessings for your daughter Brie! May you have a fun celebration!
ReplyDeleteRich, being an avid animal lover/ owner of both cats and dogs, my heart goes out to you....It is never easy 💔to lose part of your "family." It was on my heart just this morning how this time last year we had an untimely passing of one of our cats, Chico. So my prayers for you and family coming your way for having to out down Bolt. As well as for your wife to have renewed strength and be able to work through the stress and strain that comes with her job of helping others.
Prayers also for a smooth transition to your new job, and may the peace and love of the Lord be with your family. May your guardian angels help pave the way with their protection.
Butterfly love- thank you so much for those comforting words and prayers! Brains too you as well🙏
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletehttps://youtu.be/76KsgvKrqnI
DeleteThe song is Lead me Lord by Gary Valeciano, the visuals or sooo heaven sent. Someone separately compiled this wonderful version. Love and prayers for all requests, always.💜❣
DeleteBeautiful, Butterfly Love. Thanks for sharing.
DeleteAbsolutely beautiful song dear Butterfly Love. Just shared it with my Mom and Sis! Thank you for your heartfelt words and your wonderful sharing.
DeleteFEEDING BIRDS
ReplyDeleteTHE LORD SATISFIES ALL YOUR DESIRES WITH GOOD THINGS.
Today’s devotion reminds me of Seagulls I have fed on the beach. Seagulls are an integral part of beach life, just as sand, sea, sky, and waves. Their presence helps identify where we are. What happens when we feed seagulls? It’s fun for a while, and then we become surrounded by more and more seagulls. Their numbers grow larger. Their demands grow louder. The feedings get more frenzied until they’re not fun anymore. And now we want to swat them away and get back to our peaceful lounging position on the beach. We try escaping them. We run; they follow. Now they won’t let us stop the feedings, go back to our beach lounging, and just soak up the Sun in Peace. We lose sight of our purpose: beach lounging, sun soaking, gentle wave soothing experience.
As we try to soak up the Son in Life, many voices clamor for our attention, like those seagulls. They entice us to participate in their frenzy, luring us into their pits of self-pity and despair, plateaus of pride and self-will, gossip and negativity. When we participate in these “off road” adventures, our participation identifies where we are in our journey. Are we lured by desire to be in the in-crowd, so we consider sharing that juicy tidbit of gossip? Or, do we want to appear as a trendsetter, so we purchase what we cannot afford? What happens when we continually feed insecurities, desire, and appearance? Do they become satisfied and fade away? Or, do they increase in number and become like those seagulls we fed on the beach, demanding more of us than we can bear, or want to lose?
When we take our eyes off Jesus and follow another's way, we are in grave danger of thwarting our purpose. Even well-meaning friends can lead us astray when we let them usurp His place in our life.
The way back to our path? Keep our focus looking to Jesus, continually aware of His Presence, our best protection from the distraction frenzy. He is the only founder and protector of our faith and most assuredly, He is with us always. Speak Jesus! Amen.
Awesome teaching sweet Brie! Sometimes I'm so busy preparing stuff for other people I don't even have time to pray. People need me, Yes, but I need God more! I love your words dear sister: Amen! Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. Name above all names.
Delete"Keep our focus looking to Jesus, continually aware of His Presence, our best protection from the distraction frenzy. He is the only founder and protector of our faith and most assuredly, He is with us always. Speak Jesus! Amen."
Amen Brie! Avoiding the fray in His name JESUS today. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI have baby news!....Houston, we have a baby BOY! Paula gave birth late last night to an 8 lb-3oz, 21 1/2" boy after a 40 hour labor. While she didn't get to do the water birth due to slow dilation and water having been broken early, she was able to have a vaginal birth. They Face-Timed at 1:35a.m. and there he was! She didn't say his gender at first...I just saw this beautiful gift from God lying on her chest attached to her breast. They named him "George" after my dad who died when I was a teenager but Paula, and her empathic-intuitive-self, has always had this attachment of sorts to him. Paula looked just beautiful...not at all like you'd think she might after the laboring she did. Me on the other hand, I look like a wreck and didn't even do any laboring, lol. While I look scary and worn out, there is a smile from ear to ear on my face and on my heart. Thank you all for your prayers for Paula, Ben, and George. SO very appreciated! Love and blessings to one and all and Happy Friday!
ReplyDeleteA dear, sweet part of heaven will always be shining on little George!
DeleteI'm so happy for you NJS❣
Welcome into His Kingdom on earth, Baby George! Since You are sharing my daughter's birthdate, I shall always remember yours, in addition to laboring all night in prayer with your Mom, Dad, and Grandma! Be blessed and highly favires.
DeleteOOPS! Favored
DeleteNJS, Congratulations to you and your family for the blessing of this beautiful gift called "George". May he grace each of you the wonders of life. May he walk in the light of the glory of God. May he early on learn to love his Maker with a deep abiding love. May he realize the calling, the mission that the Almighty has given him to fulfill. May he delight in running after God. May he embrace the full meaning of the cross & passionately, freely with complete abandon share it with others. In Jesus' Name. Amen. Hallelujah!
DeleteHalleluia! Welcome Baby George! So happy for you and Paula and Ben and your whole family. George will be a bright light to all of you and bring you many ear to ear smiles. Praying he will love the Lord and know what it means to be a child of God. Rest up dear Grandma. The waiting is a trial in itself. God bless your family in all ways. Thank You Jesus!
DeleteCongratulations NJS and family, and welcome George! I had just signed out and closed my eyes after an pre dawn blog visit when I thought I should come back and ask about this baby we have been praying in. In JOY!
ReplyDeleteI joined in prayers for all concerns and joys here today. I'm so glad to come and read and share and pray with this family. Thank you, JC family, for welcoming all who come. Thank you Lord for providing this for us.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lord for blessing me and giving me hope. I have been Agnostic for a decade and have given myself back to you 100%. I feel your presence which gives me comfort when I am down, frustrated, happy, or confused. I realize that I need to do my part and walk the line for the reward is beyond comprehension.
ReplyDeleteWelcome home. We're glad you are here.
DeleteAnonymous, praise God for your victory. Keep walking the faith. Indeed we are glad you are here🤗💕
DeleteDear Anonymous, Joining in prayers of thanksgiving for your Homecoming and for your strength of faith. Amen! The reward is beyond our understanding and everlasting. Halleluia!
ReplyDeleteSo excited to read about Baby George, NJS!! Blessings to you and all of your family and as Jeanne said - REST UP!! Isn't it just the best sigh of relief and contentment when you know they are all well and the little guy is here?
ReplyDeleteBless all of you, JC Family!!
Amen Norah! Such a blessing and a sigh of relief and contentment!!
ReplyDeleteGod bless you sweet Norah! Sleep well! So happy Baby George is here! God is so faithful. Just have to wait on Him.
Last night I didn't get to sleep at all, no, no
ReplyDeleteI laid awake and watched until the morning light
Washed away the darkness of the lonely painfilled night 45 years ago when at 2:18 am, I gave birth, via Caesarian Section, to our only child, a daughter, for whom we had waited 12 years!
Please join me in praying Happy Birthday Blessings for our #1, favorite one, and only child and only daughter! May she and her family be forever blessed in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Happy Birthday to your Dear, Blessed, Only Daughter/Child, Brie! She is a blessed, young woman to have you for a mommy. We also have only one daughter (+ 4 sons). She is a beauty at heart and I am so thankful for her, as well as our sons. God Bless them all!
DeleteHappy birthday blessings and celebration with you dear Brie, your daughter and family. Love yous!
DeletePraying you all have a blessed day in God’s presence and peace. He is always with us and we sure need Him! Thanks for praying for my good Mom who has wet macular degeneration. Taking her to a retina specialist on Monday.
ReplyDeleteThank You Father for all of your blessings, comfort, guidance, strength, healing and faithfulness. We are nothing without You. But with You all things are possible. Thank You Father for answering all our prayers, healing us and our loved ones, and lifting us up. Thank You for wrapping my good Mom in Your love and peace, and restoring her vision so she will be able to read her prayers, and her books, and watch her movies, and thank You for leading the retina specialist to resolve her eye problems and bring her back to perfect health in the Name of Christ Jesus. Amen.
Praying for your mom, Jeanne that her sight will be completely restored. The aging process can be so difficult for many people.
DeleteTJ
I'm praying for your mama, too, Jeanne - that she is healed in the name of Jesus Christ! You are so good and loving - what a blessed woman she is to have you by her side. Praying you receive all of your goodness back - 10 fold!
DeleteMy dear brother and sister, TJ and Norah, Your messages lifted my weary heart and made me smile. Praying all is going well despite the challenges. I’m blessed to still have my Mom. She hugged me three times today in gratitude and love. Got her the blood test she needed today. I’m grateful for God’s help. Mom is doing okay and she was happy to go to Church today. She got to talk to two friends too. There were some very sweet moments during the day. She ate a whole piece of French toast and really enjoyed it. We both got time to pray, and she liked my chicken dinner. I ate twice as much as she did. I helped her with her Wordle and we got it in 3. She was able to watch a little of a movie with her IPad pulled close to her. She went to sleep early and I had a nice talk with Rick. He misses me but he was happy the Yankees got 2 home runs and Aaron Judge got one of them! He made me feel better about leaving him alone. He has some good leftovers to eat and he said I was doing a good thing helping my Mom. He said I should stay as long as I need to because everyone will understand. I know God is running things one day at a time.
DeleteHard to believe 2 years ago, up on a mountaintop, the Lord held my hand and sang over me, "it's gonna be ok". Up since 130, sick, and finally was able to get to the JC blog to pray and read the message for the day. Memories and awe of His word sweeps over me.
ReplyDelete"Surely. I am with you always" affirms the wonderful song heard at sunset in 2020. And thankfully through JC warriors, a kind medical team, and a supportive family... I see His light everyday. Godspeed fellow prayer warriors, may His peace rest on you today. Amen.
Prayers for you, Dear Brother. I'm praying that when you wake up the second time, you feel refreshed and that you are on the mend. I can't tell you the times I've shared "your" song in the last two years. It is my 'go to' when I feel afraid, sad, sick - anything! Love and blessings to you and your family!
DeleteLove you, Mad 🦊! Feel better soon!
DeleteBlessings of feel betterment are coming your way, now and always. Amen.
DeleteDear MadFox, You need healing and you need sleep so I’m asking our loving Father to rest your tired body and mind and heal your weaknesses so tomorrow will be a brighter and more comfortable day! In faith and gratitude I am praying to our Father God to lift and sustain you, good brother, and bring you up out of this difficult valley you’re trudging through, and set you up high where you can see how much He has brought you through safely. I know despite your sickness and challenges you are carrying a beautiful heart full of hope, trust, thanksgiving, praise, and love. Holding you always in my thoughts and prayers. Much love.
DeleteJust had to add, dear MadFox, You are such a bright light to all of us and you are so loved!💗
DeleteMadFox, I'm so sorry about your being sick and not being able to sleep. Not being able to sleep is what often brings me here as well. Before I saw this post, I was reading your post from 2020 and was inspired again for your attitude especially knowing what these last two years have brought to you. I was also a little sad since many of us who posted regularly then don't post that often anymore. Perhaps everyone is like me. I read most every day but I don't post that often. Thanks for your post today. It inspires me again to say, no matter what, God is good and I see his light every day. Be well my friend. God bless.
ReplyDeleteSo thankful to see you post again, PEBGDesigns! I truly missed them. May God continually bless, keep, and inspire you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
DeleteMe too dear PEBGDesigns! I’m with Brie! Always so great to see your posts. You remain in my prayers! God bless you always.
DeleteHow to be conscious ( aware, mindful) of Jesus with us throughout the day?
ReplyDeleteLike a lot of things in life practice improves experience.
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24.
"Count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done" https://youtu.be/FZECFq4BvRQ
Think of all you can see, hear, smell, touch and taste. As you name each of these things you can sense, thank Him for each item in these and other categories if you can think of them.
We were created with these senses to enable us to live on Earth.
Acknowledge that each one is something that He has given to you.
One for me today while preparing breakfast was the smell of fresh tomatoes, a wonderful scent.
Do this periodically throughout the day.
Have little conversations with Him. It can be anything. Conversations with Him keep us mindful of Him.
Living a short walk from the sea, I'm often by the beach. I talk to Him about everything and anything, I see, sense or comes to mind.
One day I said "sorry Lord, I talk too much." He replied, quick as a flash " All children chatter". I had to laugh at that!
But being quiet and listening for His voice is part of being conscious of His Presence too. I definitely need to practice that more.
I know His voice. That thought blesses me so much, for Jesus said " My sheep know My voice". Yeehaw! I'm one of His sheep!
How blessed is that!
Peter - thank you for your post. You are so right! I can’t wait to screenshot and share with my teenage sons (high school and college).
DeleteSC Anonymous
"All children chatter..." LOVE THAT - SO TRUE! Bless you, Peter and thanks, as always, for sharing your insight to our loving Lord!
DeleteThat was wonderful dear Peter! I am so grateful about so many things from Him but I should take the time to bring a lot of them to my mind in gratitude and praise. I always feel like I talk too much to Him too. But it’s because I can talk to him anytime, and He understands me better than anyone else. I just loved His response to you!!! All children chatter! We are all His children. Like my little chatty grandson Gabriel.
DeleteAwesome just Awesome Peter!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
Margaret/Pa
Keep your focus on the Lord and don't get distracted by this world's trappings and those who are following the flesh. Today's devotion speaks the truth: "The way to stay on the path of Life is to keep your focus on Me. Awareness of My Presence is your best protection"
ReplyDeleteWhen you find yourself in a difficult situation, call to Him. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. Acknowledge Him in ALL things. Nothing is too menial. Ask Him to help you find your other shoe, or find your keys. He is always there and His Spirit is our constant Helper. Seek and you shall find, ask and you shall receive, knock and the door will be opened. Show Him He is the Center of your life by staying with Him through the day. Feel His love and peace surround you. When you have too much to do, He helps you get it done. When you feel worried about something, give it to Him. He shares our burdens, and makes them light. His peace reigns above our problems. Rest in Him today and have a blessed day in His presence.
Numbers 6:24-26
The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.
John 16:33
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.
.
This is one of the songs we'll be singing in Choir today: Shepherd Me, O God.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0kxWXHETlU&t=45s
Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants,
beyond my fears, from death into life.
God is my shepherd, so nothing I shall want,
I rest in the meadows of faithfulness and love,
I walk by the quiet waters of peace.
Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants,
beyond my fears, from death into life.
Gently you raise me and heal my weary soul,
you lead me by pathways of righteousness and truth,
my spirit shall sing the music of your Name.
Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants,
beyond my fears, from death into life
Though I should wander the valley of death,
I fear no evil, for you are at my side,
your rod and your staff, my comfort and my hope.
Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants,
beyond my fears, from death into life
You have set me a banquet of love in the face of hatred,
crowning me with love beyond my pow’r to hold.
Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants,
beyond my fears, from death into life
Surely your kindness and mercy follow me all the days of my life;
I will dwell in the house of my God forevermore.
Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants,
beyond my fears, from death into life
Thank you Jeanne- such a beautiful song and reminder to start my day in His presence❤️ Praying for and with my JC family today
DeleteVery comforting words and 🎵
DeleteThanks for sharing Jeanne!
"Try to stay conscious of Me as you go step by step through this day."
ReplyDeleteJust over 66 years ago aged 8 I well recall kneeling at a footstool about 7pm being led through the sinner's prayer by my Mother.
I can still visit that moment when Peace, Love and a blessèd calm descended, filled me up inside and enveloped me. When a happiness and deep joy bubbled up inside me.
Walking to school next morning I was still walking on clouds. I knew what being saved meant.
That's my first experience of being conscious of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
From the moment of being saved I was irrevocably connected with the Living God; His Life flowed and still flows through me.
Many of us know what it's like to be on life support, to be totally dependent on external medical equipment for survival.
The eternal spiritual life we get from our Lord and Savior Jesus is internal not external.
It's not something we put on, plug in, switch on or off, because He lives in us; the very person of the Creator of the Universe lives IN us, as close as the breath we breathe.
I'm currently blown away by that thought.
Acts 17:28 "For in Him we live and move and have our being. For we are also His offspring."
Thank you for sharing that beautiful memory that changed your life forever. Amen! He lives in us and is the Center of our being. He is as close to us as our own breath. We are well taken care of. Hallelujah!
ReplyDeleteSpeechless!
ReplyDelete