Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Jesus Calling: October 21

To live in My Presence consistently, you must expose and expel your rebellious tendencies. When something interferes with your plans or desires, you tend to resent the interference. Try to become aware of each resentment, however petty it may seem. Don't push those unpleasant feelings down; instead, let them come to the surface where you can deal with them. Ask My Spirit to increase your awareness of resentful feelings. Bring them boldly into the Light of My Presence, so that I can free you from them.
     The ultimate solution to rebellious tendencies is submission to My authority over you. Intellectually you rejoice in My sovereignty, without which the world would be a terrifying place. But when My sovereign will encroaches on your little domain of control, you often react with telltale resentment.
     The best response to losses or thwarted hopes is praise: The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Remember that all good things--your possessions, your family and friends, your health and abilities, your time--are gifts from Me. Instead of feeling entitled to all these blessings, respond to them with gratitude. Be prepared to let go of anything I take from you, but never let go of My hand!

Psalm 139:23-24
English Standard Version

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart!
    Try me and know my thoughts!
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting!

I Peter 5:6
English Standard Version

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,

Job 1:21
New King James Version

And he said:
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb,
And naked shall I return there.
The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away;
Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

My Prayer
Lord, help me to not simply follow You according to my terms. At times, there will be unwelcome situations that come into my life, so that you may teach me something. Help me to not rebel because I don't think at the time it is something I want. Help me to have the response of Job: The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Lord, I want to humble myself under your mighty hand and allow you to Search me, O God. Try me and know my mind and if there be any wicked way in me, pull me to the rock that is higher than I.   

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.

182 comments:

  1. Wonderful prayer. Always hard to have health or people taken away. Thank you for your prayers and words of kindness and hope.

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  2. LORD, God Almighty forgive me for any resentment towards anyone, life struggles with my children, finances, FEAR of the future,ANXIETY, lack of material things employer, co-workers, brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, authority figures in churches, family dynamics, government, work, schools, and any other area where there are authority figures and any circumstances that I may experience in my life. I pray for FREEDOM and I am COMPLETELY FREE from resentment once and for ALL in the Name of JesusπŸ›

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    1. Thank you for sharing this prayer , I have prayed it as well.

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    2. Amen and Amen, thank you Payton family for today's meditation. I humbly bow before you my Lord Jesus, l open up myself to You and ask You to free me from righteous indignation, help me to let go of family upsets.

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    3. Thank you Lord for giving me discernment, tolerance and fortitude to withstand my tendencies to judge and resent current circumstances beyond my little domain of control. Thank you for my freedom to choose and the truth that sets me free.

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    4. I prayed most of this prayer but I left out the part that “the Lord takes away.” Those were the words of Job, not the Lord. I believe the Lord gives and He gives some more. When we lose something, whether it be a loved one or a job, it is our response to be thankful and to trust Him. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus.

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    5. Amen! Thanks for these wonderful prayers and reminders of God's role in my Life! ❤️πŸ™

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  3. Heavenly Father I thank you for all the many blessings you've given my family and I. Thank you for mine and my families health. Thank you for restoring my marriage Dear Lord and bringing my family back together. Thank you for the strength that you've given me. Help me to walk closer with you each day. And help my children to seek your will in all they do. You are a merciful and loving God. I praise you Lord. Be with everyone who are struggling and hurting. In Jesus name i pray Amen

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  4. πŸ™πŸ™πŸ™πŸ™

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  5. So thankful again for this site and all of you wonderful believers who pray for each of us. Between having a 3 & 4 year old along with their Daddy (Mommy had a girl's weekend which was much needed); going door to door campaigning for my husband who is running for City Council and a dumpster in my drive way that I was determined to start filling, my reading time was early and my responses started at the beginning of the day and finished late at night, making them way, too long - I've not gotten to write. However, I have read everyone's Praises, Requests and Concerns and kept you in my prayers, as I know you have me. For that I'm thankful.
    Yesterday's devotion was being lived by me (I am SO sore and all I could think of was this aging, earthly body). Today's devotion reminded me to give thanks in ALL things.
    Father, I lift this day to you - all of my family, all of my loved ones (that's each of you), your Body of Believers. I thank you that I don't grumble but give thanks that I have a job to go to that I enjoy and helps provide for our family.
    Thank you, that each time, I grimace or grumble from my sore joints and broken baby toe (barefoot Nonnie tripped on a stool), that I thank you, that I'm alive and able to work heartily as unto You. Thank You for our Country, our President and that we remember our prayerful Founders and don't take our freedom for granted. I thank you and praise you in the name of Your only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.
    God Bless, JC Family!
    Norah

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    1. Norah - City Council needs Christian Leaders. Your husband has my vote. My husband received the largest number of votes the first year he ran for office. He served on City Council for 12 years. Alzheimer's forced him to retire.

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    2. I loved reading this, Sassy Mom. Thank you! He is a wonderful man, so committed to God - former History teacher. He served several years ago, for 5 years and then lost the year he had Cancer. But, he's back in the saddle. It's hard juggling everything, but a couple of our kids are into helping and I just keep giving it to God...Your will, not ours! Thank you, though for reminding me that it's a good thing that he is doing.
      Norah

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    3. Prayers to Norah's hubby for a successful campaign! And prayers to you for broken toe healing - and fun watching your little ones. Fill that dumpster! ha. Have a blessed day. KS

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    4. Prayers for a successful campaign!

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    5. Norah--- Joining the prayers for a successful campaign for hubby. We are always winners with our Lord! And, I certainly join you in praying for our Country, our President, Congress -- anyone who is in authority over us. I pray that they are men and women of integrity and will DO Right for the people of USA. Father God, wake up Your believers to serve You with their intercession. Help us to hear Your call and become watchman on the walls of our community and nation. I want Your will to be done in our government. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen and Amen

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    6. I too pray Thy Will Be Done, in our government, in our choices, and in our own lives. Amen

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    7. I join in this prayer for ALL, in Jesus'name.

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    8. Amen! Joining in prayers that God's Will Be Done and He will guide this election and our world. He is our True Leader above all.

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    9. Still praying this one, Brie. How are you today dear sister in Christ? Prayers for you, Larry, Keith and family are on my mind.

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  6. My prayer.
    23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
    24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,and lead me in the way everlasting!Psalm 139:23-24

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    1. This has been my prayer as well the last couple of weeks. And that He would expose them, let them come to the surface and to His light so He can deal with them in love and not condemnation from Him or myself. Thanks for sharing

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    2. Joining warriors for prayer requests and repeating my 2019 prayer in 2020.
      23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,and lead me in the way everlasting!Psalm 139:23-24. Thank You Lord for blessing me with Your presence in my life.

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    3. Amen! We are gathering together today to pray for God's Hand in this election and in every problem that we are faced with at this difficult time. He writes our future. No man does. In Him we trust. Thank you Father for saving our world, our people and our lives. Take care of those suffering and those being burdened by illness, loss, poverty, storms, fires and violence. Thank you for taking care of us. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray today. Amen.

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    4. Amen!πŸ™✝️πŸ™✝️πŸ™✝️

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    5. We have gathered here together
      With one agenda and it is you alone
      One agenda and it is you alone
      One agenda and it is you alone
      Even so come
      Come, we're ready for your presence
      Come and change our vision, eyes on you
      Come now, we're desperate
      Come, we're desperate, hearts are open
      Jesus, come, come quickly, come
      So we have
      We have gathered here together
      With one agenda, and it is you alone
      Just one agenda, and it is you alone
      Just one agenda, and it is you alone
      Even so come
      Come, we're ready for your presence
      Come and change our vision, eyes on you
      Come now, we're desperate (Come, we're desperate)
      Our hearts
      Hearts are open
      Jesus, come, come quickly, come
      Even so come, we're ready
      Come, we're ready for your presence
      Come and change our vision, eyes on you
      Come now, we're desperate (Come, we're desperate)
      Our hearts are open (Hearts are open)
      Jesus, come, come quickly, come
      And this is our prayer
      (Your kingdom come, Your will be done)
      On earth as it is (On earth as it is in Heaven)
      Your kingdom come (Your kingdom come)
      Your will be done (Your will be done)
      On earth as it is (On earth as it is in Heaven)
      Your kingdom come (Your kingdom come)
      Your will be done (Your will be done)
      Your kingdom come (Your kingdom come)
      Your will be done (Your will be done)
      Your kingdom come (Your kingdom come)
      And Your will be done right here tonight, Lord (Your will be done)
      Hey! (On earth as it is)

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    6. I can just imagine this powerful song's impact when sung witb the congregation. 🎢🎡 Thank you dear Min❣

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  7. What a blessing to wake up this morning to this devotion. Yes Lord, Everything that I am and have are gifts from You! May I never, never, ever forget that!
    I NEED and want Your WILL to be done in my life, not mine, because Yours is perfect for me or any situation I encountered.
    Holy Spirit, please take away every rebellious streak in me and convict my spirit to release it All to You and find rest in the light of Your Presence. Thank You Lord.
    Satan, you are a LIAR and the father of it all. You will NOT steal my joy. I had a blessed and fulfilled weekend praising and glorifying God with like-minded believers, got home with my mother last night and you tried to take that joy and blessings away. Well, you will remain the loser that you are because JESUS gave me VICTORY and no one can take that away! I am holding on to the hands of God and not letting go!

    Thank You Father for loving me enough to forgive me and granting me new mercy everyday. Grant me patience as I release my Mom into Your hands. You are an on time GOD! Nothing is impossible for You. You can convict and breakthrough the most stubborn heart. Help me to let go and Let You, in Jesus name.

    My JC family, I Uplifted all of you in prayers during the 'My Destiny MUST Arise' conference I attended this weekend and trust that the God who answered Elijah by fire, is going to meet your every need according to His will and cause Your enemies to flee out 7 ways, giving room for the RISE of Your God ordained Destiny to spring forth! Remain VICTORIOYS in Jesus name!

    Maplewood NJ

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    1. Maplewood--- I am with you in standing against the enemy who is a LIAR! satan will NOT steal your joy because we have the VICTORY in JESUS! 1John 4:4 "...
      for He who is in you is greater than he that is in the world." Why to go Maplewood, taking it to satan! Let's give him the worst possible day today! ALL praise honor and glory to our precious Lord!

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    2. Amen dear Maplewood. The Victory is ours because our God is so much greater than he that is in the world. All praise and thanksgiving to Him who holds our destiny. Nothing is impossible for Him and in Him we can do all things. Much love.

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    3. We have victory in Jesus ...let us give Him all the praise and thanksgiving.

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  8. Dear Lord, You know my heart and soul. I've faced a lot in the past several years,and would never have thought I would be a resentful person. Resentment crept in after being "torn down" over and over again by a loved one. I'm working on things, with your help, Lord. Thank you for helping me to realize everything I have received are gifts from You. Please continue to help me learn how to truly forgive and let go of resentments. I have been humbled to realize life is not my plan, but Yours. It is easy to love You in the good times; thank You for showing me You are there just as much in the painful times. Thank You, Lord, for continuing to lift me up each day and carry me if needed. Please remove any negative feelings from me and redirect my mind to focus on You. You are an awesome God! Amen. CO

    Wonderful to hear, Maplewood! God is leading; a victorious path indeed!
    Prayers for you and your husband, Norah! I can imagine being a spouse of someone running can be difficult. Lifting you up in prayer!
    Saying prayers for all! Have a blessed day! CO

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    1. As God's Holy Spirit often does, yesterday He brought my resentment to the surface, front and center. I got up before day, drove two hours to pick up my brother and drive him to a dr's appointment about 30 minutes further. Many huge confusing medical buildings spread out over a mile, but we made it. Only to hear the receptionist said, THEY cancelled the appointment. Yup, Lord, I lost sight of You and satan enjoyed my resentment, which was exposed. When something interferes with my plans or desires, time, etc. I resent the interference. The hospital rescheduled the appointment for 4 hours later, giving me plenty of time to fill up my senses with Christian Music through my earbuds and ready myself for today's devotion!

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    2. Dear CO, We all have negative feelings when the going gets rough but we quickly bring it to the Lord from whom all blessing and peace flow. Amen, He is with us through the good times and bad.
      Dear Brie, God won yesterday because you were able to help your brother anyway. God made sure you could get the second appointment and you were blessed to have time to fill your beautiful heart with Praise music and the peace that passeth all understanding before you took your brother again.
      This morning when I woke up, I was in great pain and through my bleary eyes I said Thank you Lord for this new day. I need your help. Then I prayed with my Mom and Sis and instead of rising up and going to the computer to read today's blog, I said. Lord, I need you to take this pain away. My good husband brought me some ibuprofen and I took it and closed my eyes. When I opened them. My husband was in the room and said. I'm so glad you had a good nap. The pain was much less and I thanked the Lord. When I got up I saw that it was noon. That was quite a nap. Now I feel refreshed. God has His way and takes care of everything. I was able to package my pumpkin cookies, Halloween candy and cards. I'm gonna walk around the corner to the post office to mail them to my family. Now that mask will cover my swelling nicely. God is so good and makes all things right. Feeling blessed and thankful.

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    3. So glad our sweet Jeanne got much needed rest to aid in her healong

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    4. WOW!!! I can not tell ALL of you how much your heartfelt praise, problems, prayers… everything have meant to me over these past weeks.
      How God works: I discovered this blog as I wanted some people I work with to read the devotional, Jesus Calling, as I know how much it has helped me over the years.. then the LORD led me to your comments and what was meant to help others ( which it is) has helped me!! Beyond measure!!! Truly beyond measure!!! Brie, Jeanne, sassy mom… just to name a few… God bless you and keep you… and I’m sure there are many others of us out there who read your words and are just as blessed as I am…
      Please, will you pray for my husband… of 37 years… an alcoholic, who does not yet see it, for his heart to be softened to know the Lord. The rest falls into place, once we KNOW HIM!! ☝πŸ»πŸ™πŸ» right??!!
      Gratefully, ‘praying mama bear’

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  9. THOUGHTS ON INTIMACY WITH OUR LORD

    Yesterday, I spoke of the use of the Canticle of Zechariah (Luke 1:68-79) after the readings. Allow me to share a story that speaks of the value of repetition in our spiritual growth.

    A man seeking to get serious about spiritual growth approached a renowned spiritual director (SP) and told him his desires. The SP commended him and suggested to him that for the next week, he repeat the 'Jesus Prayer (JP)' ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.") 6,000 times a day. The man was a little overwhelmed at the task given him but in his earnestness to grow, he proceeded to do so.

    After a week, he returned to the SP and said he did what he was told to do and was ready to move on. The SP looked at him and said, 'For the next week I want you to do the same, repeat the JP 6,000 times/day.' The man rolled his eyes, took a deep breathe and said 'ok' and proceeded to do so.

    At the end of the week, the man returned to the SP and said, 'Ok, I have completed that part and I am ready to move on.' The SP responded by saying, 'Ok, now I want you to repeat the JP, 12,000 times/day for the next week.' The man's eyes grew big and 'you've got to be kidding' was written all over his face. The SP asked him, 'You said you wanted to grow spiritually didn't you? If so, then this is the direction for your spiritual growth.'

    After a week of repeating the JP 12,000 times/day, the man returned to the SP. Looking the SP straight in the eyes, he said, 'How much longer must I keep doing this?' The SP looked back at him with compassion for his soul and said to him, 'You need to repeat the JP 12,000 times/day for another week. The SP could see a bit of anger and discontent in the man's eyes but the man consented to follow the direction he received.

    While repeating the JP 12,000 times/day during the next week, the man was suddenly overwhelmed with the essence of the JP. He suddenly felt he did not need to repeat it anymore because it had become a part of who he was, every heart beat, every breath he took, everything about himself exuded the JP, it had so captured his soul. He returned to the SP and humbly sat down without saying a word. The SP took one look at his countenance and said, 'You are now ready to move on.'

    And that, dear friends, is the value of repetition in finding intimacy with our Lord. It is in driving the truth found in scripture deep within our heart and soul. Much like hammering a nail into a board, it takes as many swings as necessary depending on the hardness of the wood, in this case the hardness of the heart.

    God be with you! With love, Bob

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    1. That inspires and challenges on so many levels. Thank you Bob!

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    2. Wow!!! What a story and as GraceTakesTimes mentioned, a "challenge"!
      What would happen and how will our lives change for the better if we all can do likewise and just pray, never giving up and realise that it has become part of our lives, thereby thrusting us into a deeper intimacy with God? How awesome and blessed will that be?
      Oh Father, may I never grow weak in my spiritual repetition, but keep pressing forward for a greater reward in Jesus' name!!!

      Thank You bday twin brother! God bless you and pour more knowledge and wisdom upon you as you keep seeking Him and sharing His Words of hope, joy and peace with us!!

      Maplewood NJ

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    3. Love this. Harden not our hearts - and however long it takes to soften them..so be it. Thank you Bob. KS

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    4. Thanks Bob!
      By God, I finally got it;) Beginning now and counting how many times it will take to ready me for moving on. In beach terms, how many turns of the oyster knife it takes before the sharp, hard oyster shell pops!
      Love to my JC Family!

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    5. "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

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    6. Wow! Thank you for this powerful story Bob! Great reminder to never stop believing. "Faith it till we make it"

      Blessings from France

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    7. Great story! Thank you! In today's reading I discovered once again how 'tiny' resentments grow over time until they demand more prayer and asking the Lord to release them and me.I search for the balance between letting go and gratitude for all things and circumstances in my life. I am so very grateful Lord for all my blessings. Thank you for helping me with discernment and right action as it relates to the surrender to your will. I ask this as your humbled servant, "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner." Amen.

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    8. Wonderful Bob, Thank you so much for that wonderful story and teaching. We must remain firm and steadfast in our faith and mission to follow Him, and let us not become lazy in our quest to remain in a state of grace. May we never forget those words of truth. Our Lord is indeed the Son of God, His Beloved Son, The Son that lights our lives like the Sun and leads us to Salvation. His mercy is beyond measure and incomprehensible by human minds. It is unconditional as is His Love for. Oh that we should show the same mercy to others. We must remember we are sinners and by our humanity we will never be able to please our God completely but He is molding us to be as close to His image as possible. Let us always remember these words. Right to our last breath: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. Amen!!!!!!

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  10. Thank you Bob. This is a great inspiration for me. It has opened up my eyes. God bless you. Thank You Jesus.

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  11. I am flying across the country today to relieve my sisters. COVID has put them in the position of being primary caregivers and everything to our 91 year old parents. Of course they have their own jobs and families. It is tough on everyone. I can’t do much but I will be present to relieve them for a few days. Please pray as the spirit leads you.

    I am so grateful to be able to go.
    “But may all who seek you
    rejoice and be glad in you;
    may those who long for your saving help always say,
    “The Lord is great!””
    Psalm 40

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    1. GraceTakesTime- praying God's traveling mercy for you as you fly out to be a blessing to your sisters. God bless you!

      Maplewood NJ

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    2. Praying for you GTT, your heart is in the right place. Jesus knows how difficult it is for any of us to maintain a servant's heart, you are attending to yours. Safety in flight, blessings all the way πŸ€—!

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    3. GraceTakesTime - blessings to you. How wonderful to be able to help your parents. I too have a 91 yr old mom who I take care of. Very difficult at times, but very rewarding. Peace and blessings to you. KS

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    4. Praying for you, your sisters and parents. God be with you.

      Blessings from France

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    5. God be with you, GTT, in your act of love for family. My prayers accompany you on your way.

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    6. Traveling mercies to you, GTT. As one who lost my parents many years ago, enjoy your time in loving service, it is a precious opportunity.

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    7. Traveling Mercies being prayed for you GTT.
      I wish I could hear my Mom pray again, but she died over 35 years ago.
      Enjoy yours!

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    8. Dear GraceTakesTime, May God put a strong hedge of protection around you and grant you His safety in traveling as you help your family in their time of need. May He strengthen you and guide to you help in the best way possible. Thank you Jesus!

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  12. Most Gracious Loving Father, Thank You for causing me to hear Your loving kindness this morning. Forgive me, oh Lord, for hurting and condemning in any way, even if it’s just in my heart. Show me where the pain began and free me from any bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly. Help me to forgive. Yes, to forgive as I would want You to forgive me. Cast out any spirit that tempts me to look at others with resentment and let compassion for them, fill my heart. Let your mercy guide me and the joy of my salvation fill me with Your perfect peace.
    When the pain turns into resentment because of old wounds being added to the new, help me to check my heart whether it is in line with my values and convictions or if it reflects my faith in You, my loving Savior. Show me what’s going on inside my heart, help me to let go and release the toxic emotions as often as they try to return. Help me to find healthy and helpful ways to love, care and pray for all who hurt and betray me and reveal to me the doorway to freedom from it all. Help me not to squander my time being resentful about things that happened or didn’t happen, but use my energy to focused on You and what I can do to glorify You. I desire to ‘live in Your Presence consistently and grateful for all my many blessings! And yes, thank You for Your sufficient grace that makes it all possible. I pray this from the depth of my heart to You dear Lord, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

    Blessings and Peace.

    Maplewood, NJ

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    1. Maplewood, I'm claiming this prayer also. Love- "help me not to squander my time being resentful". Bless you dear oneπŸ₯°

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    2. Beautiful prayer, Maplewood. As all your prayers are. Thank you for sharing. KS

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    3. Your prayer is mine, Maplewood NJ. Thanks for sharing today and everyday. I appreciate all the love and truth that flows out so sweetly. Amen.

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    4. Amen amen! Oh Lord please help us to guard our heart above all else. Purify us and have your way in us so You can be glorified, you the King above all kings.

      Blessings from France

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    5. Maplewood, thank you so much for this beautiful prayer! I claim every word and offer it to Jesus! Gif has richly blessed you with the ability to put your beautiful thoughts into words and prayers! May He bless you always!

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    6. God not Gif! I should have previewed more carefully!

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    7. We knew what you meant BamaGrl :)

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    8. Thank you for echoing the words of my heart. I join heartily in your perfect prayer. Amen!
      I am so blessed that our Discerner of Hearts reads the words inside us every day and knows our thoughts, motives, iniquities, insecurities, hopes, fears and infirmities intimately. His Spirit works mightily within us. Our loving Father is renewing and restoring us, and leading us back into a state of grace, healing and peace.
      Thank you sweet Sister for always feeding us the words to pray and giving us encouragement for our hearts.

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    9. Amen and amen πŸ™ . May God work in us , may He touch and cleanse every part of our being ! Make us into who you want us to be !

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    10. I have been walking around with resentment because of the challenges I have gone through. I didn't know that it was causing bitterness and anger.Thank you Lord for making me aware , work in me , I take every resentment thought and bring it to your feet Father ! I know You are working in me ....

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    11. You spoke my heart and I am so thankful for the added encouragement that brings healing.

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  13. CONFIDENCE
    I'm not a warrior
    I'm too afraid to lose
    I feel unqualified for what you're calling me to
    But Lord with your strength
    I've got no excuse
    'Cause broken people are exactly who you use
    So give me faith like Daniel in the lion's den
    Give me hope like Moses in the wilderness
    Give me a heart like David, Lord be my defense
    So I can face my giants with confidence
    You took a shepherd boy
    And made him a King
    So I'm gonna trust you and give you everything
    I'll be a conquerer
    'Cause you fight for me
    I'll be a champion claiming your victory
    So give me faith like Daniel in the lion's den
    Give me hope like Moses in the wilderness
    Give me a heart like David, Lord be my defense
    So I can face my giants with confidence
    I'm gonna sing and shout and shake the walls
    I won't stop until I see 'em fall
    Gonna stand up, step out when you call
    Jesus, Jesus
    I'm gonna sing and shout and shake the walls
    I won't stop until I see 'em fall
    Gonna stand up, step out when you call
    Jesus
    So give me faith like Daniel in the lion's den
    Give me hope like Moses in the wilderness
    Give me a heart like David, Lord be my defense
    So I can face my giants with confidence, yeah
    Give me faith like Daniel in the lion's den
    Give me hope like Moses in the wilderness
    Give me a heart like David, Lord be my defense
    So I can face my giants with confidence
    I'll face my giants with confidence

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    1. Today's devotion fit me like a tshirt. Please pray for my brother's urology appointment today. Due to prostate cancer, he had a prostatectomy 10 years ago. His PSA recently went up to 24. Drs feel cancer metastasized but not sure where.
      My brother is such a kind, gentle and loving person, I am struggling, yet trying to see God in my runaway futuristic thoughts. Today I'll focus on trying to Remember that all good things--your possessions, your family and friends, your health and abilities, your time--are gifts from Me. Instead of feeling entitled to all these blessings, respond to them with gratitude. Be prepared to let go of anything I take from you, but never let go of My hand!
      Thanks for your prayers, JC Family. They help me to sing the song, CONFIDENCE.

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    2. Brie - Beautiful "Confidence". What I needed today. Prayers for your brother's appointment. May he be healed, given strength and comforted by our Lord. KS

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    3. Brie - Joining in prayer for your brother's urology appointment. Warriors, please pray for Rodney, the father of "one of my other kids" has urology appointment tomorrow on October 22.

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    4. Prayers sent for your brother Brie, and for Rodney, Sassy Mom.

      Blessings from France

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    5. Brie- As you always pray for others, we are with you also in prayers for Your dear brother and all that concerns you! Jehovah Rapha is already ahead of him, granting him peace, strength and healing! May you and the family receive His peace as well.

      Sassy Mom- Praying for Rodney as well for God's best report. Sending peace and strength his way.

      God be with you all.

      Maplewood NJ

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    6. YES LORD YES! AMEN and AMEN!!

      Bless you dear Brie!

      Maplewood NJ

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    7. Prayers for your dear brother Brie! Also lifting Rodney in prayer! God’s got this!

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    8. Prayers for your brother, Brie and all those whose resentments have them 'pissed off' to the extent that they manifest in their physical being. Thank you Jesus for your healing that takes care of unfortunate results from all our misguided thoughts.

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    9. Even though I know God may have to use his high powered pressure washer to get me clean, I am finding much needed humor in the thought, What better place to be pissed off than at a Urology appointment!

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    10. Joining warriors Brie for good news for your brother. We all know Who's in control.

      SassyMom, including Rodney in this prayerπŸ™.

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    11. Brie, Praying for your dear Brother and for good results and God's faithfulness in his life and yours. May he give both of you comfort, healing and peace of mind. May God strengthen Him and heal every weakness in his body.
      Praying, Sassy Mom, for Rodney's appointment to go well and for only good news. Thank you Father for all these things in the powerful Name of Your Son, Our Risen Lord, Christ Jesus. Amen!

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    12. Good bless you, Brie. I love to play with words with you, it's fun to see you get it and know that my prayers are sincere as is my use of humor to lighten us all up. ♥️

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    13. ♥️🎢 Confidence
      https://youtu.be/KA9kSBv1QrI

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  14. Thank you warriors for dental consult prayer. It was a bittersweet visit. Light was shed on my issue, thank you Lord, but it was not my dentist who helped me as my dentist died unexpectedly the day before from a massive heart attack. He was 68, getting out of his car to attend to his patients. Please pray for the comforter to minister to his family/staff. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Amen.

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    1. What a tragic loss... praying comfort, peace and strength to all his family and loved ones.
      May God restore and renew their heart with joy and perfect peace.

      Blessings from France

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    2. Jan- I join our prayer warriors in praying for peace and comfort for his fsmily, friends, staff and all others.

      Thanking God for His peace.

      Maplewood NJ

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    3. Jan I am praying for peace and comfort for your dentists family, friends, staff and patients!

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    4. Thank you kind and loving Father for embracing this dentist's family in their time of shock and grief. And for you too, Jan. This must have been terrible news and a shock to encounter when arriving for an appointment!

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    5. Jan, Praying for the comfort of your Dentist's family and that he who has helped so many people will have a perfect resting place and the peace of God will surround him always. Amen.

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  15. Lord show each of us where we hold resentment. As we surrender it to you forgive us and turn the cause of our resentment to a joyful opportunity to serve you. Thank you Lord!

    As I read today's devotion I found myself face to face with what has been stealing my joy. Resentment, I resent that I had planned on spending these years on doing stuff I would like to do (spending more time with my Lord one on one, yoga, friends, repurpose furniture, etc.). My time is now taken up by caring for my grand children. My one on one with the Lord time has turned into a constant dependence on him literally. I find myself just saying "Jesus" or "please Lord help, defuse this situation". I often think when I'm out in public with my little guy people may think I'm saying our Lord's name as a curse word, but it's far from that. It's an ernest plead for help. I still desire to do things I enjoy, but that has been put aside for now. Lord replace my resentment with joy. The joy in the privilege to raise 2 more children. The joy knowing they are safe. The joy of sharing you with them. The joy of the occasional snuggles. The joy of seeing them being healed of their past hurts and growing into who you design them to be. Lord thank for using this to grow me into who you want me to be. I'm 59 and my heavenly Father is still shaping me into what his desire is. Thank you for loving me so much that you put this in my life to raise me up as we raise these beautiful children up together.

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    1. Praying with and for you TERRI, and for all the other ANGEL GRANDS rearing GRAND ANGELS.

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    2. May God grant you His joy and strength dear Terri. Bless you!

      Blessings from France

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    3. Father, show our sister Terri how pleased You are that she declares complete dependency on You everyday, that she denies her own gratification, her personal desires in exchange for greater good for the Kingdom by taking care of these little ones. For You have said,"if you've done it for the least of these, you've done it for me"! Hallelujah!

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    4. TERRI, You have so much on your plate and God knows your love those 2 grandsons so much. He also knows all your frustrations and that your own needs, goals and dreams have been detoured because you must help your family. The best prayer in the world is "Jesus". It puts our Lord in the forefront of our mind and heart, and it lifts you out of your present situation because you are putting Him in charge. I have no doubt that those 2 little boys love you very much and are so thankful you are taking care of them. Praying that God will lead you to all joy and peace and fulfillment in His timing. May He strengthen and guide you to do His work. In the meantime, remember you are serving the Lord as you care for them. It always makes things much easier. Sending you a big hug because You have been a faithful servant. I am sure He is smiling. Much love.

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  16. Praying for all those in need....and, Bob, I loved your story...Very telling.. MadFox , You are in God’s capable Hands.God Bless.

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  17. Today’s devotion really hit home for me today as well! So much resentment and hurt over my job loss... I pray every day to let it go! I keep telling myself that it was for the best but those negative feelings continue to resurface and I think are keeping me from moving forward! Thank you Lord for your grace that forgives me every single time these thoughts arise and thank you for never letting go of my hand!! I know that in His time, I will see nothing but blessings!!
    I am praying for all of my JC family intentions above and continuing to lift Madfox in prayer!!
    Blessings today and always!

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    1. Praying for Madfox too, Bright Star!
      BamaGrl. Praying for your perfect job to find you and for you to rest in Him who cares. He knows what your job will be because He knows the gifts He has given you. Amen! Just keep going forward, dear Sister, holding His Unchanging Hand.

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  18. BEACH DEVOTION: FINAL RINSE
    "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
    Big and little Kids all run back to the beachhouse, ravenous after a day of frolicking in the sand, playing on the beach and swimming in the water. Racing toward the meal we know is waiting for us in the beachhouse, we first try to Rinse Off before going inside. For that reason, outdoor showers and spigots are commonplace at the beach, but no matter how hard we try, we can never truly get sand free clean by using them.
    Whenever we meet with The Lord, we are usually ravenous. On our own, no matter how hard or how long we try not to, as we approach Him we still track in gritty grains of sin, like sand. We need Jesus' Eyes on us to spot the sand on us, wash us clean with His Grace, Mercy and Forgiveness, and then fill up our ravenous spirit with His Love. For the moment we are cleansed and satisfied.
    When back out on the beach we go the next day, then the next, then the next..., then we will need to resubmit to His cleansing another time, then another time, then another time, and so it goes. Whenever we run to Him, He receives us, rinses us, and feeds our ravenous hunger, reminding us what a friend we have in Jesus, Who takes good care of us all! How hard and how long does He rinse us? However hard and however long it takes to cleanse us. Just like the rinse off at the beach, perfect submission and patience is our key. Our reward is being cleansed and well fed.

    FROM 1 JOHN 1: 9
    When we confess to Him, He can be depended on to forgive us and thoroughly cleanse us. It is perfectly proper for God to do this for us because our Lord Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven and washed away our sins. We can tell Him the truth about our sins, for He already knows we have sinned. He is our Way, our Truth, and our Life.

    MY PRAYER FOR US
    "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner." Everytime we come to you wearing gritty sand grains of sin, would You help us Submit to You and Praise You for washing us clean? In Jesus' Name, I ask. I seek. I knock. I thank. Amen.
    "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

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    1. ...gritty sand grains of sin AND RESENTMENT...

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    2. Great analogy, Brie.Never quite thought of sin in this way, though I live so close to so many beaches.I am a visual learner, so I love an image to call to mind. Praise Jesus for his cleansing care. Blessings to all this glorious day !

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    3. Wow. What a great analogy, as always. Thank you! God bless you dear Brie!

      Blessings from France

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    4. Wonderful Brie!!! I also enjoy the pictures you paint for my mind to see. May He continue to wash away all the grains of sin and fill our hungry hearts with His love and truth. Amen!
      Thanks for the blessings dear Capecodgirl!

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    5. Thank you Brie for sharing this. I'm a beach person so this made complete sense to me! Sin --grains of sand. What a wonderful way to explain this. Thank you

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    6. BrieOctober 21, 2020 at 7:40 PM
      S(and Gra)ins
      Just another way to look at Sins for my visual sisters and brothers! Be blessed.

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    7. Thanks Brier I love the way you wrote this it will stay etched in my mind . God please cleanse us we definitely can't do it on our own ! Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross for me

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    8. Amen Brie! We all need cleansing and forgiveness and God is such a merciful and understanding Father. We are blessed to be His children.
      Amen Min. He gave everything out of love. We are saved by the Cross. His blood has washed us clean.

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  19. I have fallen, Lord, Once more. I can’t go on, I’ll never succeed. I am ashamed, I don’t dare look at You. And yet I struggled, Lord, for I knew You were right near me, bending over me, watching. But temptation blew like a hurricane And instead of looking at You I turned my head away, I stepped aside While You stood, silent and sorrowful, Like the spurned fiancΓ© who sees his loved one carried off by his rival. When the wind died down as suddenly as it had arisen, When the lightning ceased after proudly streaking the darkness, All of a sudden I found myself alone, ashamed, disgusted, with my sin in my hands This sin that I selected as a customer to purchase, This sin that I have paid for and cannot return, for the storekeeper is no longer there, This tasteless sin, This colourless sin, This sin that sickens me, That I have wanted no more, That I have imagined, sought, played with, fondled, for a long time, That I have finally embraced while coldly by-passing You, My arms outstretched, my eyes and heart irresistibly drawn; This sin that I have grasped and consumed with gluttony, It’s mine now, but it possesses me as the spider web holds captive the fly. It is mine, It sticks to me, It flows in my veins, It fills my heart, It has slipped in everywhere, as darkness slips into the forest at dusk and fills all the patches of light. I can’t get rid of it, I run from it, like the master of an unwanted and mangy dog, but it catches up with me, and rubs joyfully against my legs. Everyone must notice it. I’m so ashamed that I feel like crawling to avoid being seen, I’m ashamed of being seen by my friend, I’m ashamed of being seen by You, Lord, For You loved me , and I forgot You. I forgot You because I was thinking of myself, And I can’t think of several persons at once. One I must choose, and I chose. And Your voice, And Your look, And Your love hurt me. They weigh me down, They weigh me down more than my sin. Lord, don’t look at me like that, For I am naked, I am dirty, I am down, Shattered, With no strength left. I dare make no promises, I can only stand bowed before You. Come, son, look up. Isn’t it mainly your vanity that is wounded? If you loved Me , you would grieve, but you would trust. Do you think that there is a limit to God’s love? Do you think that for a moment I stopped loving you? But you still rely on yourself, son. You must rely only on Me. Ask My pardon And get up quickly, You see, it’s not falling that is the worst, But staying on the ground

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    1. What eye opening words Min Ahadi! Very powerful. Thank you for sharing them and giving me something to think about and meditate on. God bless you!

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    2. Dear Min Ahadi, You spilled out your heart on this page. We are all sinners and not worthy of God's love but there is His mercy and forgiveness. It is beyond our understanding but it is always there like a net to catch us when we fall. There is no sin too great to bring to the Throne of Grace. We all fall short of pleasing Him every day. Many times, I just put my head to heaven and say: I'm sorry Lord, I didn't mean to do that. He hears our words, knows our hearts, and understands our weaknesses. Praying for you. Know you are dearly loved.

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    3. Dear Min Ahadi. This is wonderful. I read it out loud and with expression as if I was reciting for others. It is really impactful when done that way. Thank you so much.

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    4. Oh, Min, as Jeanne expressed, we are ALL sinners and not worthy. I finally realized some years ago as I struggled with guilt over wrong and bad choices that God forgave those THE SECOND I came to Him AND that I AM WORTHY. That was a big one for me. As we bring our wrong choices to the Father, asking for forgiveness, mercy, and grace, I feel the warmth of His forgiveness. May you feel this too. Wrapping my arms around you in my mind, Min, and hugging you tightly in love and prayer. May you feel our Heavenly Father's arms as well and His forgiveness.

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    5. Dear Min, you are being hugged not only by your JC family but by the Almighty himself! Be still & just be held. The sins that can visit any of us, God already foreknew. He already knew your reaction, your remorse at it. Don't embrace the guilt that the enemy is piercing into your mind. Gather the remnants of it and scatter it to the wind, let go, let the cleansing blood of Jesus wash you glistening clean again. It is your God given right as a child of the sacrificial Lamb! YOU ARE FREE! walk in victory! We dearly love youπŸ’•

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    6. Oh thanks the words in the passage is ow I fell however these are not my words , I got them from the book "prayers of lfe " written by Michele Quoist

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  20. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; (Hebrews 12:15). And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. (1 Peter 5:10). Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. (Ephesians 4:31).

    Heavenly Father, thank You for all Your wonderful teachings and transformation of our beings. Let all Your children become like the image of Christ. Help us to be gentle, kind, loving, patient, peaceful, joyful, and full of faithfulness, goodness, and self-control. May our lives show wholeness and integrity. With the help of Your Spirit may we cultivate the fruit of Your Spirit. Lord, there are so many things wrong in my life right now and my heart, mind, and spirit need Your alignment and healing. I will trust in You to make all the changes necessary in my life for me to move forward in my walk with You. Help me take the next steps forward in the right direction and please guide me and walk with me forever more. I praise You Lord always. I am so grateful for You and Your everlasting love. Touch me and reveal my resentments and things that I'm holding on to that I need to let go of in my life. Thank You Jesus. In Your precious name, Jesus name, I pray, Amen.

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    1. Good morning dear Sis πŸ’•. Life is full of so many hurdles, twists & turns. Uncertainties are so much a part of every day living. Dear Janet, one thing is certain & cannot, will not be moved. The power of the cross! The love demonstrated there for you dear one is in full operation in your life this very day. Just walk in it, claim it, declare it loud & clear to the enemy that besets you. You are Christ's beloved, as His eyes are on the sparrow, how much more valuable are you. Whatever circumstances befall any of us, we can take up the cross, partake in His suffering and still be able to dance in victory because we are the possession of the Most High! We can walk in the spirit of THANKSGIVING with a grateful heart. Amen! Hallelujah! We love you dear oneπŸ’•

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  21. Amen and Amen dear Janet. Gathering into your prayer. Your words are so perfect: "Help us to be gentle, kind, loving, patient, peaceful, joyful, and full of faithfulness, goodness, and self-control. May our lives show wholeness and integrity." Mold me Lord. Take my hand and lead me to all You have prepared for me according to Your Will and Plan. Thank You Jesus!

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  22. Good morning dear warriors. Blessings to each of you this dayπŸ’•. Please pray for me. I have an appt. With diagnostic to check my carotid artery for plaque this morning. I can go in peace knowing my JC family has covered me in prayerπŸ™. Thank you allπŸ’•.

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    1. Good morning! Praying mightily that there is no evidence of plaquing in your carotid, sweet sister, Jan!

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    2. Good Morning dear Jan. I just prayed for you. God Bless

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    3. Thank you NJS & WaitingπŸ’•. I go in peace.b

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    4. Sorry I’m a little late. Rick and I got our Boosters today. May God guide your diagnostic test in every way to good results. Trusting in His faithfulness. Thank You Jesus.

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  23. I'm also asking for prayers this morning, JC family. My daughter, Paula, who just gave birth last Thursday to Baby George is struggling. While extreme sleep deprivation is a given for a new momma, her breast milk supply isn't coming in like she had prayed and hoped it would. She FaceTimed me last night and to see her very puffy eyes and dark circles under them and ALL she is doing to try to feed her son breastmilk is heartbreaking. While her breasts were very full of milk Monday and all looked good, the lactation specialist said that they think her milk ducts haven't all healed from her breast reduction surgery (6 years ago). That being said, this gal brought the industrial-type breast pump from the hospital for her to use vs Paula using her own and it's still only minimal production. God has still provided, though!...her dear friend, Kacey, mother of 4 with the youngest only 4 months old, has an abundance of breast milk and this dear friend is supplementing Paula's lack. What a gift!! What Paula has to do, though, to try to get her milk to come is she wears a nipple shield, then has the industrial pump going on the other breast while George nurses on the side with the shield and she then has Kacey's breast milk propped up higher than George with a tiny tube coming from it and it is snaked under the nipple shield and into his mouth. So, essentially, he's getting both Paula's and Kacey's milk while the other breast is being pumped by the machine. (He nursed 10x yesterday. UGH.)That's exhausting in and of itself let alone not sleeping. She realizes what a gift God has given her with George and with her friend Kacey and that there are other means to feed him as well as her want to control the situation but can't and needing to let go and let God. I suggested she take a soothing bath with Epsom's salts and essential oils...having Ben check on her so she doesn't fall asleep, but she is pushing that bath idea away. I think exhaustion is taking over her thinking clearly. I also thought warm wash clothes over her breasts might help. If anyone has suggestions, I'd love to pass them onto Paula. (When she was laboring for those 40-hrs, I screenshotted all your prayers to her which she SO appreciated!) And if you could say a prayer that if it is God's will for her to breastfeed, that He allows the ducts to open and the milk to flow! Again, she is so grateful for Kacey and the incredible gift of her milk as well as other alternatives (she ordered formula from a German company that is supposed to be the next best thing to breast milk to have on hand in case.) And may this baby have some longer sleep stretches between feedings so she and Ben can have a bit more sleep! Your prayers are ALWAYS SO appreciated, warriors! Thank you in advance!

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    1. You got NJS. PRAYINGπŸ™. Poor thing. I will do some research & get back to you on email.

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    2. Joining prayers that God will pump up Paula’s milk supply and resolve her problems and anxiety. Kacey is one wonderful friend and truly a gift from God. Little George will get what he needs through God’s provisions. Praying Paula and Ben can catch some sleep. They must be absolutely exhausted. May God pull all the loose ends together as they put Him in the Center. Thank You Father for all this in Jesus’ Name. Amen

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    3. Thank you Lord for your perfect timing in intervention for the new parents and George. In Jesus's name we pray!

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    4. Thank you all so much! I totally forgot to mention that Little George is also "severely tongue-tied" and has to have that laser procedure tomorrow. The lactation specialist was at their house this morning and was shocked that George was even able to latch. I told Paula that he's determined...just like his momma! Thanks, again, for your prayers!

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    5. Poor little thing. Praying all goes well with Little George's laser procedure. Father you know the situation better than anyone else. We trust in Your faithfulness. Make all things right for this beautiful family. Thank You Jesus!

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  24. Janet, I want to thank you for writing the exact prayer that I would have written. It’s comforting in a way to know that most of us are going through many of the same seasons and storms. These devotions and prayers strengthen, convict and heal us. It’sa blessing to have this community for fellowship and support during the storms! Rick Warren said we need to ahead be prepared in our Faith as we are either in a storm, coming out of one, or going into one.
    I am thankful to you father God for showing me my selfishness, ego, and pride that blinded me from seeing how it was ALL through you and how I missed the grace and mercy and the opportunity to thank and worship you. Even in this season of change, transition and difficulty, I know it is all for your glory. May I be constantly reminded that you give and take away everything and it all comes through your love, grace and mercy. May I be thankful in all things and mindful of Psalm 23, especially verse 6, “Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.”
    ‭Blessed be your holy name Jehovah Jireh! Janet, I want to thank you for writing the exact prayer that I would have written. It’s comforting in a way to know that most of us are going through many of the same seasons and storms. These devotions and prayers strengthen, convict and heal us. It’sa blessing to have this community for fellowship and support during the storms! Rick Warren said we need to Shay’s be prepared in our Faith as we are either in a storm, coming out of one, or going into one.
    I am thankful father God for showing me my selfishness, ego, and pride that blinded me from seeing how it was ALL through you and how I missed the grace and mercy and the opportunity to thank and worship you. May I be constantly reminded that you give and take away everything and it all comes through your love, grace and mercy. May I be thankful in all things and mindful of Psalm 23, especially verse 6, “Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.”
    ‭Blessed be your holy name Jehovah Jireh!

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  25. Sorry for the extra posts this morning! But who doesn’t like extra prayer. 😁 Maybe I’ll change to you using a computer instead of my phone. Have a blessed day everyone!πŸ™

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  26. Didn't mind the passionate overdose, Rich C. God bless you!

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  27. Just loved your prayer and post and Janet's post. You lifted my weary heart. Thank you! We are all imperfect and dearly loved.

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  28. Dear Family, I needs some prayers. Today was a very bad day. I was up late with friends celebrating a Birthday. But I was cooking and baking well into the morning for another Birthday on Monday. I also made 2 extra dinners, one for Rick and one for tonight. My Bible group member gave me her son's old tricycle yesterday. So I wanted my grandson Gabriel to try out the bike today. I ended up taking him home and letting him try to ride in the schoolyard across the street. He was getting the hang of it. We had shorts on because it was hot. We played up on the playground for almost an hour and had a good time but it was getting late. He needed a nap and his family was coming over for dinner. He wouldn't get off the playground. He kept saying "No Nani, More times". I was getting so angry because he wasn't obeying me. And I let go of God's Unchanging Hand and lost my temper. I told him I was gonna leave him there and go home myself because I was tired. He said. "Okay Bye Nani" and he just kept playing. So I grabbed the tricycle to act like I was leaving and I tripped on the stone border around a corner and went flying right over the tricycle with my bare legs and got a nasty deep gash in my shin from the stone edge, along with 5 or six other cuts on my arms and hands. I was so upset! I told him: "You come down here right now! Nani hurt herself and I need to go home now!" He said "No Nani". He said: "Me come down and kiss it." He came down and looked at the cuts and got scared and went right back up. I was so mad and in pain. I told him God was not happy with him because he was not being kind to Nani. Well it is impossible to reason with a 3 year old. He was so stubborn and insensitive. I finally grabbed his hand and dragged him and the tricycle home. I was so upset and mad at his lack of compassion. I have 8 big bandaids on and one larger bandage on my shin. I must go to see my Mom tomorrow morning. Please pray for my traveling safety and healing. My family liked the chicken stew and I was blessed to make them happy and to be able to hold baby Nathaniel. I didn't want to tell them what happened. But my daughter in law figured it out. She asked me if I got hurt in the playground. All I said was yes and that I had tripped over the bike and got scratched up. I did say Gabriel wouldn't leave the playground and I was not happy with him. But later he said he was sorry so I told him I forgive him because God forgives me when I do bad things. I told Gabriel that God understands exactly how I feel and He is the only one who does. Just need some prayers especially for the healing of my shin. I can't get an infection because I got the hole in my heart closed in December and any infection will affect the little closure device. My husband went to 3 different drug stores to buy the hydrogen peroxide. I was real cranky on the phone with him after he had played golf all day, and the good guy walked in with a bouquet of roses and said: I knew you had a bad day. God bless him. Thanks for your prayers and your understanding and loving hearts. We will continue to pray for each other and trust in the Lord’s faithfulness.

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    1. Today's Devotion sounds like it could be a 10th band aid, as well as healing ointment?
      Much Love and Many Prayers coming your way, Brie

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    2. Thanks Brie! Just what I needed! Sending prayers a a lot of love your way too!

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  29. Jeremiah 31:33 "I will write my laws on their hearts and minds. I will be their God, and they will be my people."

    This scripture just melts me to the ground. JCFAMILY, we are His people! This has to be the most incredible privilege on the face of this earth! All Praise and Honor to our Heavenly Father, to Jesus and to the Holy Spirit!
    How we love You! HALLELUJAH!!!

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    1. Yes indeed JJ! How we love you dear Jesus! Once again dear JJ, I'm truly blessed by your prayers for this family. Bless you dear sister also. I love that scripture, thank you for sharing. πŸ’žπŸ™πŸŒˆ

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    2. We're His People! Yes! Thank you JJ! Your post and Scripture fills my heart with gladness, takes away all my sadness (and resentment) eases my troubles, that's what you do...
      Have I told you lately that I love you and our entire Marvelous JC Family of Prayer Warriors?
      Much Love and Many Prayers, Brie

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    3. Amen! The greatest thing God ever said to us is I Am Your God. Hallelujah! He is all we need.

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  30. Good Early Morning, JC Family. I am heading to bed...not an ounce of energy left in me. My Dear #4 Son put my new office chair together; we moved my filing cabinet into my 'new'' i.e. renovated office and I've done all I can do. As I told my Sister, "Our friends coming tomorrow (one I've known since I was 12; the other since I was 18; 11 blessed births, 1 marriage 46 yrs and the other (mine), 49 yrs in Feb), do NOT give a fig what my house looks like!" I will do my best and they will "respond with gladness!" My Sister said, "They want to see you rested, blessed and excited to spend time with you - not a perfect house!." My house is (still) far from perfect from all of the construction. But I am going to bed a thankful Woman of God - I will welcome them with open arms!
    Continued prayers for my DH, who has a cold and we're praying it doesn't settle in his lungs, like years past. Continued prayers for little Ezekiel, - no report as of tonight. I'm taking that as good news.
    Prayers for my family, who blesses me continually and who all of you graciously pray with me for, every day.
    Praying for each of you - good sleep, healthy bodies, minds and rested souls. I will read tomorrow and pray for each of you. Will report back (on the awesome time with friends, fam), but may not get to post until later this weekend.
    Good Night - God is on the Night Watch.
    <3

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    1. Praying dear Norah for your DH to recover quickly with no complications. Lifting Ezekiel, may he soon & very soon be out of the woods & his health & strength normalize. Have a delightful time with your ole buddies Norah as you all spend time reminiscing about the good ole days. That's always so much fun! Bless your entire day dear girl πŸ™πŸ’žπŸŒˆ

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    2. Praying your DH wakes this morning feeling like he's on the other side of this cold, Norah, and that his lungs weren't affected this go around. I'm excited for you to see your longtime friends! The very second you see them, all anxious thoughts will disappear replaced by lots of hugs and laughter during their visit. May time move slowly during their visit!

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    3. Praying Norah, while humming "If I Could Save Time In A Bottle" i suspect this visit will be one of your bottled treasures! Much Love, Brie!

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    4. Dear Norah, just being yourself blesses and heals those around you. Show your cheerful heart and rested soul. In joy your visit with friends!.

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    5. You’re gonna have the best time with your Besties! I’ll bet your place looks very nice and I know your heart is absolutely beautiful!! Praying your Best Man is being healed right now of every problem and God will keep his lungs strong and clear. Continuing to pray for Baby Ezekiel for amazing healing and for peace of mind for his family. May God strengthen you and your family in every way and heal all your weaknesses! Thank You Jesus.
      Now get some rest so you’ll be ready to make new sweet memories with your dear friends. Like our Brie said: Time to bottle up more blessings! Have fun dear sister! Enjoy every precious moment!πŸ˜ŠπŸ˜ŠπŸ™πŸ’—

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  31. Norah, praying for your family and wishing you an enjoyable and relaxing weekend with friends.

    SC Anonymous

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  32. Resentment! Oh boy, that acid eating away.
    Like bile in the throat it can rise up so quickly.
    I am often aware of resentment rising but not often do I have the presence of mind to turn to the Lord in that moment.
    Giving my day to the Lord every day as I do, means that I don't own any of it, my day now belongs to Him. Therefore interruptions must be part of His plan for my day.
    Yet I do resent interruptions which basically come from selfishness - the 'me first' syndrome.
    Meals gone cold can be reheated.
    Preparations can be resumed.
    When my alone time with my Lord is interrupted, He is still with me and will wait for me to turn back to Him.
    So Lord Jesus, help me give this rebellion, these resentments and interruptions to You. In the moment, please give me the presence of mind to surrender how I'm feeling to You. Help me keep to the priority of You first, others second and myself last, Amen.

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    1. Amen! Beautiful and humble prayer. Thanks for sharing.

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    2. 1 Peter 5 is keeping me afloat...
      6 If you will humble yourselves under the Mighty Hand of God, in His good time He will lift you up.
      7 Let Him have all your worries and cares (including resentmemts), for He is always thinking about you and He is watching everything that concerns you.
      8 Be careful—watch out for attacks from Satan, your great enemy. it prowls around like a hungry, roaring lion, looking for some victim (of resentmemt) to tear apart.
      9 Stand firm when it attacks. Trust the Lord; and remember that other Christians all around the world are going through these sufferings too.
      10 After you have suffered a little while, our God, Who is full of kindness through Christ, will give you His eternal glory. He personally will come and pick you up, and set you firmly in place, and make you stronger than ever. 11 To Him be all power over all things, forever and ever. Amen.

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    3. Thanks Peter! Amen! Even while we are busy cooking, cleaning and preparing things, we are walking together with the Lord. I talk with Him while I am busy because He is always there. He wants to be a part of everything. He is our everything.

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  33. So me: ... when My sovereign will encroaches on your little domain of (illusion of) control, you often react with telltale resentment. Yes. I do.
    I'm sorry Heavenly Father. Instead, would You hasten to help me Thank You for everything? In Jesus Name. Amen.

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    1. PS. How do I Bring resentments boldly into the Light of Your Presence, so that You can free me from them?

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    2. AHH HA! reading is fundamental. In answer to my question, I just read a post by Bob Malsack October 20, 2020 at 8:23 AM...Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a (resentful) sinner... 12,000 times a day for a week!

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    3. Dear Brie! I do get resentful of the things that keep me from praying so I just keep reminding myself that He is with me through every bit of the day.

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  34. I'm writing on the chalkboard...Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

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    1. Amen dear Audra. Me too.
      We are all imperfect sinners but we are loved perfectly! Hallelujah!

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  35. Okay dear Prayer Warriors, it’s time to lift a helpless man in prayer.
    I need some powerful prayers from our dear JC Family for my friend Brian’s father Stephen. He took a bad fall and landed on his head. His life is hanging by a thread so we need a miracle. Thank you for praying God will mend his body and bring him back to his loving family.
    Heavenly and merciful Father, We thank you for laying Your Healing Hands on this good man Stephen and repair the brain tissue, capillaries, brainwaves and arteries and every weakness in his head and body, mind and heart, and breathe life into him and restore strength and functions and speech and recognition and memory and bring him back to good health. Amaze the doctors and since Brian is not a “praying man, show him Your saving power so he will seek You for himself. Bring peace of mind and comfort to him and his family. Thanking You and trusting You for this in the Name of Christ Jesus our Risen Lord. Amen. Nothing is impossible for You. Thank You Jesus

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  36. Praying for Brian's father, Stephen, Dear Jeanne. Love you, Dear Sister in Christ!

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  37. Joining in prayers for Stephen, Jeanne. May the miracle of God's healing be done and all be AWE-mazed who witness it...to then seek after Him going forward! Lord, we need your help and healing for Stephen! In Jesus' name, amen!

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  38. Thanks for your powerful prayers! Got a message from Brian today so grateful for all the prayers.πŸ™πŸ’—

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  39. Off to see my sweet mom this morning and I hope my dear sister and her good husband can get some well deserved rest. My mom can only have food with sea salt so I've made some yummy things for her if she will only eat them. She hardly eats anything. She needs water with electrolytes now and can't drink a lot of liquids. Praying God is already healing her and taking away her confusion. I loved the last line of Sarah's inspired words: "Be prepared to let go of anything I take from you, but never let go of My hand!"

    I have Jesus so I don't need anything else. I can't do anything without Him. Trusting in His faithfulness to carry us all through this hard time, especially my good mother who loves Him with all her heart. Have a blessed weekend dear family. Remember He walks through this day with you. You are not alone. He understands you better than you understand yourself. Hold onto His Hand as you go through your daily chores, and look for the little blessings He sprinkles throughout your day. Be thankful and praise Him even when the storms come. He leads us through them and they test our faith so let us not waver. Be steadfast and be good witnesses for the Lord. Guard the words you say and let your thoughts and motives be pure. He knows our hearts and our minds intimately so let them be pleasing to Him. May God bless you all, answer your prayers, and give you reasons to rejoice and be glad!

    Proverbs 3:5-6
    Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

    Psalm 19:14
    Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
    Be acceptable in Your sight,
    O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.

    Psalm 118:24
    This is the day the Lord has made;
    We will rejoice and be glad in it.

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    1. Praying for you, your mom, Janet and her husband, and the whole family. May our heavenly Father strengthen and comfort all of you during this time. May He bring your mom His perfect love, peace, and healing in extra doses. Enjoy your precious time with your mom and family as a true blessing from God. Every moment is appreciated and held dearly in our hearts as wonderful memories in the future. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen πŸ™. God bless!

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    2. Prayers for safe travels to see your good mom, Jeanne. Please give her a hug from all of us. May His comfort and wisdom intercede in your good mom's health and restore her. We pray that her feisty personality pushes her through this challenge and restores her health. Jesus, please give Jeanne, Janet and David the strength to help their good mom. In your name we pray, amen.

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    3. Praying for your Mom. Even a little sea salt - a small pinch in coffee or tea, infact anything she will swallow will help.

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    4. Traveling Mercies, Jeanne. And may all your prayers come true today, in your life and in the lives of your dear ones. In Jesus' Name. AMEN πŸ™

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    5. Safe travels, Jeanne, and may your sweet mom be willing to eat the nourishing food you're bringing her. May it help turn things around with her electrolytes and state of mind. Praying, too, that you all have peace. In Jesus' name, amen.

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    6. Thanks dear ones! Thanks for your prayers and for comforting my heart. I’m very sad but I have Jesus with me. My mom is not doing well. She’s still confused and upset. Her doctor said she may have encephalitis, a swelling in her brain from an infection or a virus. She would need a spinal tap to find out. She sure needs our prayers. πŸ’—πŸ™

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  40. For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16). Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him. (Psalm 115:3). Oh, the depths of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out! (Romans 11:33).

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    1. Thanks for the good food! 😘

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  41. ...But when My Sovereign Will encroaches on your little domain of control, you often react with telltale resentment....OUCH! My resentments are high.
    Dear Heavenly Father God, Please cleanse me from my known and unknown faults, I pray.
    In Jesus' Name. AMEN!

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    1. And again this year, God have Mercy on me, a resentful sinner.

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  42. Sharing my David Jeremiah devotions.
    The Great Tribulation.

    https://www.davidjeremiah.org/radio/player?id=4322

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    1. Pretty frightening but God’s will be done.

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  43. Continued prayers for your good Mom, Jeanne; for your sister and her husband and you and yours. Prayers and thankfulness for all of this JC Family. Nice quiet (? well...football!) Saturday with Grands, Kids, Friends. We are blessed and thankful.

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  44. Thanks sweet Norah! It was a hard day but Jesus was at our sides.So happy you enjoyed being with your dear family and the joy and peace of being with the Lord. May He bless and help all our dear JC Family.

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