Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Jesus Calling: December 6

Stay ever so close to Me, and you will not deviate from the path I have prepared for you. This is the most efficient way to stay on track; it is the most enjoyable way. Men tend to multiply duties in their observance of religion. This practice enables them to give Me money, time, and work without yielding up to Me what I desire the most -- their hearts. Rules can be observed mechanically. Once they become habitual, they can be followed with minimal effort and almost no thought. These habit forming rules provide a false sense of security, lulling the soul into a comatose condition.
     What I search for in My children is an awakened soul that thrills to the Joy of My Presence! I created mankind to glorify Me and enjoy Me forever. I provide the Joy; your part is to glorify Me by living close to Me.
Deuteronomy 6:5
English Standard Version
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
 
Colossians 3:23
English Standard Version
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.
 
Psalm 16:11
English Standard Version
You make known to me the path of life;
    in your presence there is fullness of joy;
    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.


My Prayer
Lord, I want to stay close to You, so help me to narrow my focus and lose what distracts me from you. I want to stay on the path you have set for me. Remind me that doing things your way is the most enjoyable way to live. Too often I am thinking duty is the secret. Help me arrive at church with the right heart, the right motive. Train me before I go to church on how I am to live. I don't want my life to be about rule-keeping to the point that I feel safe because I've kept a set of rules. I don't want anyone to think this is how we live. Help me to stay connected with you in a real life union. Lord, keep grooming me and moving me to love you Lord with all my heart, soul, and might. Remind me that each day I am working for you and for your glory, not to please people. This is true at work, at home, wherever you have placed me. With you, I am on the right path. With you, I have joy. With you, I get all the pleasures I need.

--------------------------------------------

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.

--------------------------------------------

Second Monday in Advent 2021

Blessed are those who mourn, For they will be comforted. (Matthew 5:4 (NRSV))

For those who are unaware, this is St. Nicholas Day on the calendar used by our Catholic and Anglican brothers/sisters in Christ (Eastern Orthodox celebrates St Nicholas on December 19). Very little is known of his life but much has been fabricated mostly to make him look like Santa Claus. Here is a clip by National Geographic that provides a little background of the real person who lived and has been morphed into the person of today.

Who Was Saint Nicholas? | National Geographic https://youtu.be/3jLO6A2NpPU

Over Thanksgiving week, we took our family on the Polar Express in Williams, AZ, a train ride to the ‘north pole’. Upon arriving, there he was all dressed in his traditional red suit, waving as we rode by. Then as we were heading back to where our trip originated, Santa Claus was on board and coming down the aisle of the train car we were sitting in. There were 5-6 children, ages 3-6, seated in front of us. When they turned around and saw Santa Claus coming down the aisle, the look of joy and excitement on their faces was beyond description, certainly a one of a kind look. I just sat there and watched those sweet faces and remembered when I was a child how Santa Claus delighted me. It was an excitement like no other. As I watched those precious faces, I couldn’t help but wonder, ‘where has a smile like that gone in my older age?’ Life has taken its toll on that smile. But then I thought, that smile will return someday, the day I behold our LORD and that smile will remain on my face forever.

So what song should I pick for this devotion today? A search of Santa Claus songs produced 54, most of which I never heard. There are the classics, Here Comes Santa Claus, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and Up on the Housetop. Jolly Old St Nicholas has a good thought in it that asks for gifts for Johnny, Suzie, and Nellie and ends with the request for self of what you think is right. (Don’t ever remember thinking that way myself.) But as I went over the songs, this one leaped out at me as the best to reflect upon.

Amy Grant - Grown-Up Christmas List
https://youtu.be/RmF2rsDHOZc

This is a good example of the beatitude quoted above. When we mourn the ills in the world and long for them to be changed, we begin by praying for the needs of people (to the One who can really do something about it). What is likely to happen is that we will become involved in being a part of the LORD’s solution. In doing so, that would truly reflect the spirit of St Nicholas for what we know of him.

With love, Bob (Malsack)  - provided with his permission

186 comments:

  1. God speaks so clearly to me through you. Thank you Jesus!

    ReplyDelete
  2. It is all about being in relationship whether it be with our Lord, our spouse, our children, any brother or sister in Christ, or anyone at all. There are certain rules for sustaining a healthy relationship, as taught in the scriptures, that can be used to guide us. But if all we do is maintain the rules and do not love, not have a longing desire deep within us for the other’s happiness and wholeness, all the right things we do will be so hollow (or as Eugene Peterson said it in his paraphrasing of I Corinthians 13 - we are like the squeaking of a rusty gate). To truly be in love is dynamic full of spontaneous opportunities of expression which bring delight and meaning to our being. A theology based on Santa Claus works on being nice and not being naughty so we get good benefits. A theology based on the Cross sees the gifts given, receives them with great joy and thanksgiving and proceeds to live in love. As St. Augustine has said, “Be loving and do what you feel like.” Whenever we get the first part right, the second part falls naturally into proper line.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dear Bob,
      I always enjoy your writing and your understanding of Christ's message. Though I am a Hindu, it is a blessing to know Christ through people like you.

      Have a blessed day.

      Delete
    2. Thank you Bob, Your words ring true. Our relationship with Christ is the most important thing we have, and our other relationships with our loved ones also much be watered and nurtured every day. Jesus is just waiting for us to come running into His arms. Let us not be shy about it.

      Delete
    3. Lord may u forgive me for all my sins and please help me and my family members get alone a wise man always told me I will always forgive you unless one thing if you kill your self .

      Delete
  3. Lisa update. It is still Thursday, Dec. 5 th 9:15 PM my time. I'm sending this on tomorrows date. I just received update from Lisa a few minutes ago. She said she is home and in some pain, it was kind of scary and the Dr. said to pray about it. JC prayer warriors, thank you for continued prayers for Lisa. I encouraged Lisa and quoted my husband's favorite expression "God is in control and you just can't beat it."

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Prayers continue from all of us for Lisa. She is so fortunate to have a trusted friend as you, Sassy Mom. I love your husband's expression. Blessings. KS

      Delete
    2. Continuing to hold Lisa up to the throne of grace. May she be encouraged this day as the Lord comes aside of her with healing in His wings. Hallelujah 🙏

      Delete
    3. Sassy Mom--- Joining the JC WARRIORS in continued prayer for Lisa. Your husband was sooo right, God is in control and I wouldn't have it any other way!

      Delete
    4. Praying for Lisa that she feels JESUS'S sweet embrace of love and mercy.

      Delete
  4. Teach me to love You MORE, Lord. Show me how to place You at the forefront of my life and my thoughts. Help me to center my life around You and grow in obedience to You.

    ReplyDelete
  5. This is Susan. Some might recall I asked for prayer recently against breast cancer but sadly I did receive a diagnosis of stage 2 breast cancer BUT GOD!!!! He has been so very real putting resources and His people in my path! Even had a strong believer as the nurse in the exam room when I received the diagnosis and my Sister in Christ who was with me heard Oceans playing and asked that she turn it up - lots of Lauren Daigle played - that nurse knelt, grabbed my hand and prayed the most Holy Spirit filled prayer over me. God is CLEARLY in this. Please pray I 'do this right" and that God uses me and my circumstances to further His Kingdom. Thanks so much for your prayer support. And thank God we never walk alone!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Susan, all the JC Warriors will continue to pray for you and lift you up. God is always with you and how comforting that is. Blessings and peace to you. KS

      Delete
    2. Amen JJ! Yes Susan, the warriors are on the March for you. What a beautiful thing the Lord did for you. Surrounding you with fellow believers ministering comfort & prayers just as you needed it. Our God is awesome. Quoting from "oceans", "He will keep your eyes above the waves", "for you are His & He is yours.

      Delete
    3. How comforting knowing you have warriors and believers wrapping you in loving arms and praying for you. You will continue to be in our prayers.

      Delete
    4. Unknown - Susan .... May you be comforted to know you are surrounded with JC Warrior PRAYERS. God bless you as we continue to pray for you.

      Delete
    5. Susan--- Finally was able to read the posts today. Will certainly join all THE JC WARRIORS in prayer for your circumstance . I praise God for what He is doing for you. He's got this!

      Delete
    6. Jesus we trust in you totally and completely. Lifting you up in prayer Susan. Peace be with you and yours.

      Delete
    7. I’m not sure how this came to me but I’m praying for’s Lsa’ peace and come that only God can give this is the only reason I got through the melanoma brain surgery I2 surgeries ! I hag 5 years ago because of God I had no fear He put all the right doctors family and friends in my pathway the neurologist that told me I had a brain tumor put his head next to mine and said the most beautiful prayer said it was in gods hands and God was right there the whole time, and I pray that Lisa in Jesus name amen

      Delete
  6. Good Morning, JC Family. Can't thank you enough for your prayers, words of encouragement, suggestions and the love of God which passes all understanding. I didn't get to get back on this site until this morning except to see what to pray for. All of your prayers and my determination to keep calling out To God for help, explained how I was able to get through my 15 hour day, yesterday. I fell in bed and was out like a light and woke up this morning, praising his name (thanks, Jan G, for your reminders and you are so right!). I know I'm not alone in the shift of 'life,' at this time of year. So, today is a new day, I say, TGIF (that I'm forgiven, Maplewood and that it's Friday!).
    I prayed for Lisa yesterday, Sassy Mom and will continue to keep her in my prayers.
    Loveconquorsall, so thankful that your little grandsons are doing better. I continue to pray for them and for your strength and patience as well as your daughter knowing the gem you are in the midst of their lives.
    CO - congratulations - a new granddaughter!! Praying for you as you are back home with the memories of being part of that miracle of new life. What a privilege to have been part of that - may your involvement in their lives continue.
    Anonymous - praying that your financial situation changes and that you are freed from that burden. I have been there so many times and it isn't fun. Praying that your needs are met above and beyond and remembering how that season in my life was not only day by day but moment by moment.
    So, for today, I will cast my cares knowing that He cares for me - for each of us and the things on our hearts. I take all concerns to Him believing that our hearts are set and we trust that we have all He has provided. Let us all have "an awakened soul that thrills to the Joy of My Presence! I created mankind to glorify Me and enjoy Me forever. I provide the Joy; your part is to glorify Me by living close to Me."
    Praying that the God in Christ in us, is sufficient to thwart the darts of the enemy. 'All that I've needed thy hand has provided,' (Sassy Mom - love your reminders).
    Praying for the big event that I'm running next Monday morning - bright and early. That He goes before me in all my actions and I don't forget one, single thing, thanks to Him. That it blesses the people involved and that He has gone before me. Today, I will wrap up all of the details and know in my heart that it is covered.
    I don't want my life to be 'mechanical,' but spontaneous as I listen to Him and let Him work in me to share His light and love.
    Prayers for each of you on this site and all of yours. "This is the day, this is the day, this is the day that the Lord has made..." That is the song in my heart, Jan!
    Love and blessings to each of you. Please pray for my friend who has been sick all week and still made it to work each day b/c her family needs the income. Bless her and keep her and let her get the rest she needs to heal.
    Now - off to work I go! Please know how very thankful I am for this blog, Peyton Family and all of you prayer warriors! God Bless!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Atta girl Norah! Go off to work with joy unspeakable in your ❤️. You be a blessing to others as you are also blessed. Will be praying for your friend. Keep singing His praises!🎶.

      Delete
    2. You inspired me at 5:30 and still are, Jan Gridley! Love your heart. My day was long - 7:30 to 5:30 and still going (in prep for my event), but I am thankful. I talked to my friend tonight when I got home and could barely recognize her voice. UGH! Continued prayers! <3
      Norah

      Delete
  7. Oh Lord, as I watch the sunrise from my bed,"it's a new day dawning, it's time to sing your song again & whatever may pass & whatever lies before me, let me be singing when the evening comes". Bless the Lord oh my soul!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Continuous prayers and blessings to you all on this Friday morning. May your weekends be blessed with family, friends and fun. Stay connected to The Vine, my friends. Peace.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Suzanne---So appreciate your prayers and blessings to this JC FAMILY. I let them flow from the top of my head to the soles of ny feet. I am BLESSED all over! Great Blessings to you. In His Grip of Grace from Kansas

      Delete
  9. Hi all. Thank you so much, Payton family for these posts. I have the book, but this gives me the ability to send out the reading every morning to many people who are eager to receive it. May the message of Christ spread like wildfire. Thank you all for your words and I’m keeping you all in my prayers. My heart is heavy these past few weeks, as someone very close to me is suffering with alcoholism and feels there is no way out. He believes in God and he has asked me to pray for him. I thought I would share here and ask you all for your prayers for Johnny. I believe God will heal him and give him a sane mind, that he may use the gifts his been given to glorify the name of God through Jesus Christ. Thank you all

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes we will pray. And here is a promise; God is near to the brokenhearted. He most likely is brokenhearted about something and choosing alcohol to cope. Seeing that happen, then breaks your heart.

      Delete
    2. Bri, Johnny is very blessed to have you in his life. My prayer that you feel JESUS'S love, mercy, and strength to help Johnny. We are praying for the both of you. God is in control and that is enough.

      Delete
    3. Praying for Johnny, Bri! He IS very blessed to have you in his life.
      Norah

      Delete
    4. Bri---Joining the JC WARRIORS in prayer for Johnny. I thank you Lord for the VICTORY that You are bringing to his life. AMEN and AMEN

      Delete
  10. Bri - Joining you and JC Warriors in prayer for Johnny and all other spoken prayer requests. Be blessed and loved, MY Warrior family as we pray for each other.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Thank You Lord for giving me life to live today, not on my own, but in Your Presence. I am striving to stay close to You, please keep me from all forms of distractions and lead me in the right path and frame of mind through the power of Your Holy Spirit. I really need You Jesus! THANK YOU for being my Lord.

    Peace and Blessings to all.

    Maplewood NJ

    ReplyDelete
  12. Dear Prayer Warriors ... Please join me and my 2 daughters in prayer for God's will in a real estate negotiation concerning an opportunity to lease, sell or donate property to State of Tennessee.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sassy Mom--- Prayers on the way for wisdom for this situation. Sounds like a--Let go and Let God.

      Delete
    2. Praying, Sassy Mom! "Remove the obstacles, Dear Heavenly Father! And sharpen their eyes and ears." You've got this! <3
      Norah

      Delete
  13. Requesting prayers for a dear friend just recently widowed. Trying to help her "pick up the pieces" and continue this earthly life. As much as our deceased friend tried to lay things out there are lots of detail questions we'd like to ask. Dear Lord, we pray for wisdom and guidance as we search through documents to make her transition as smooth as possible. A daughter and son-in-law are helping from a distance. Lord, provide them insights to help and give them peace at this time of loss.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Compassionate prayers for your friend's difficult journey. She needs all the love, support and help she can get. God bless your friend. Lord, surround her with Your comforting presence.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 10-4--- Joining with Sassy Mom and all the JC WARRIORS in prayer for your friend. Father God, I ask that You console this grieving soul. Let them be comforted by the remembrance of Your promises. Give them peace in the midst of their tears. In Jesus's name AMEN and AMEN

      Delete
    2. Prayers for your friend, 10-4 and all of the encumbering paperwork and 'red tape' involved in the loss of a loved one. Please tell her that if she has questions/concerns about SSA, to call her US Rep who surely has a Constituent Services person who can help. Make sure she gets the 'Death Benefit,' and works out her SSA from her deceased spouse. Praying for her peace.
      Norah

      Delete
  15. Yes CO grandchildren are a blessing, gifts from God. I trust you will see your family again soon. May God calm your sad spirit. Comfort and joy is my prayer for you.

    ReplyDelete
  16. FROM HEBREWS 11
    THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITH!
    You can only please God with Faith, with depending on Him Alone. Anyone who wants to come to God and stay ever so close to God, and on the path God has prepared, must first believe that there is a God. And secondly, that He rewards those who sincerely look for Him.
    Dear Heavenly Father God, When we live by Love and Faith in You, leaning our entire human being on You in absolute confidence in Your Power, Your Wisdom, Your Goodness and Your Love, then we release You to do amazing things for us and through us, and fulfill all Your Promises to us. We all have faith! Into what or whom are we placing that Faith? In a chair? That the chair will support us sitting in it? In a light switch? That the light will come on when we flip it? In a bank? That we can withdraw our deposits when we need them?

    Would you help us choose to put our Faith in You alone, God, Who is the same solid Rock yesterday, today, and forever and Who will always do what He Promises? And would you accept our thanks for Your Infinite Goodness and Unconditional Love?

    In Faith and Love, I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amen amen ❤ Thank you dear Brie! Have a wonderful and blessed Sunday JC family

      Blessings from France

      Delete
    2. Well said dear Sister! Let us all put our faith in God alone! He is the only one who can fill our life with the fullness of joy and a peace beyond our comprehension even in this uncertain time. We are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus!

      Delete
    3. Seek, Knock, and Praise!!! AMEN, AMEN to that Brie!

      Maplewood NJ

      Delete
  17. “He is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through Him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.” Hebrews 7:25.

    I’m awaken this morning dear Lord, only by Your mercy and grace, with a heart full of gratitude. In the stillness of the night as I meditated on the prayer Jesus prayed for all believers, I marvelled at Your unconditional love and the thought of Your sinless Son, my Savior, before He was about to suffer on Calvary cross, prayed for sinful me. His prayer was meant for my redemption, my preservation, my consecration, and that of all believers, so that we would be sanctified and set apart to Him, and be unified and love one another. Thank You that the eternal life Jesus meant for believers, entails knowing You intimately through Him, and thank You that we are united in spiritual life, united in purpose, share the same mission, proclaim the same gospel, and manifest the same holiness. You are a GREAT GOD, thank You for JESUS!

    Jesus Prays for All Believers (John 17:20-23):
    "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one, I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me."

    May we stay ever so close to our Savior, never deviating from the path He had set before us, but experience the joy of His powerful Presence.
    Jesus prayed for us! How blessed and awesome is that?

    Blessings and Peace this Sunday morning.

    Maplewood, NJ

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amen! So thankful for Jesus! ❤
      Keeping all of you in prayers JC warriors as well as your friend Jane, Maplewood.

      The Lord bless you and keep you
      Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you
      The Lord turn His face toward you
      And give you peace
      Amen


      Blessings from France

      Delete
    2. Amen sweet Maplewood! I woke up in gratitude to be feeling so well, gifted with a new day, and comfortably wrapped in the presence of such a good and faithful God. It blesses my heart that our Lord prayed for us! I will do my best to stay close to Him even at my busiest moments today in the kitchen. Blessings to you dear Maplewood. Praying for Jane along with my sister, BFF. Cannot imagine her sorrow in losing her only daughter who was only 16. May God hold her very tight in her grief and wipe her mountain of tears. She will be with her dear daughter again.

      Delete
  18. I love You Lord with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my might. Clear the clutter from my mind as I prepare for worship in the house of the Lord, lead me to the heart of worship.Amen.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Dear warriors please pray for our friends. We reconnected after years had past. Her hubby Howard has stage 4 prostate cancer, their daughter is finally free of cancer after a 3 yr. battle. They have been through so much. A praise: my bff's hubby with the gastric cancer just finished the last round of chemo. She thanks all the warriors for getting them through it with all the prayers. The doctors are hopeful. Blessings to you all💕

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. God bless you, dear Jan.
      Praying for Howard's healing. God is greater than his prostate cancer. He is mighty to save. Thank God their daughter is now in remission and free from cancer. God is so good! God has brought your dear BFF's husband to the end of his chemo. He is doing well. He may be weary but I'm praying every cancer cell is destroyed. Thank You Jesus!

      Delete
    2. Praying for Howard. May the Lord renew his strength and heal every cell of his body. May He comfort him and his loved ones. In Jesus name, amen.

      Blessings from France

      Delete
  20. May the Peace of our Lord find it's way into the hearts of all, asHe prayed for us! Blessings, JC friends and families and friends I haven't met.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amen Audra! Our loved ones need His peace. Especially those in our family that don't believe in Jesus. Praying for them to seek Him for themselves and find Him. Blessings dear Sis!

      Delete
  21. No matter how big the opposition may seem, I thank You that You will give me Victory in our Lord Jesus Christ: Faith in God, Hope in Spirit, Love in Heart! Amen.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amen! The opposition has left the room, thanks to the never ceasing prayers of the JC warriors 🙏✝️

      Delete
  22. Good Sunday morning my JC family. We have returned from our beautiful, warm beach vacation in Cancun. It was a great time w family and friends. Upon our return though, our 20 yr old son Camden, brokedown sobbing and let out years of sadness, disappointment, fear and anxiety. He became a believer as a younger boy, but has been questioning his faith for a couple years. He said he feels so lost and unseen, even in a group of people that love him. My heart aches as a mom that he felt he had to stuff this down and put on a good face for fear of rejection. He poured out his heart to my husband and I and we just loved on him and told him theres no judgement here from us. We love him unconditionally. Please pray for clarity and peace for him and for us as we navigate this path. Pray for renewed faith, that he can see that god can heal and fill holes and remove anxiety and fear. Give him passion and desire to see where God would lead him in a career path and help him build trusting relationships with people that would see and understand him. Prayed for all my JC family while on vacation, except the 3 days my phone died from an ocean wave. Thankyou Payton family for this blog. Prayers for healing after Jeannes procedure, thanks for inspiration Brie, madfox, bob, jeanne, jan, audra, Maplewood, BFF, JJ, sassy mom, loveconquersall, jan g, and janet, and the others I've missed. Raise a hallelujah as we go to our house of worship this Sunday morning. Mindy

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Camden is in my prayers. May the Life of God surround him, and you our Dear Mindy.

      Delete
    2. Thank you for your prayers dear Mindy. Praying for your son, Camden. Thank God he finally opened up to you and let it all out. Praying for his faith to be renewed and his body, mind and spirit to be refreshed and healed. May God guide him to those who will love and encourage him and support him. Raising a hallelujah with you for all the victories we have been witnessing. Thank you Father!!!! Thank you Jesus, and may the Spirit continue working mightily inside each of us. Happy Sunday! Much love

      Delete
    3. Mindy - Joining warriors in prayers for your son Camden.

      Delete
    4. Praying for Camden dear Mindy. It's good that he has opened up and let you know about his feelings. I am almost the same age as your son (22) and I feel like I understand how he feels, having felt it myself for years and often still do. There is no better place to go than in the Lord's presence. I pray his faith is renewed and that he feels His peace, joy, comfort, and clarity to choose the right path. May the Lord place the right people on his path.
      In Jesus name, amen.

      Blessings from France

      Delete
    5. Dear Mindy, it sounds like Camden had a cleansing experience. We will pray that now the path is clear for the Holy Spirit to move in & inhabit Camden's very surrendered heart. Hallelujah!

      Delete
  23. Asking for prayers too. I’ve struggled and been on medication for depression for over two decades. But I can’t seem to get out from under this dark cloud of comparing and just not measuring up. I know what God says of me. And I’m a person of strong faith. This blog has been my morning devotion for over two years. I can’t go a day without it. Sitting quietly in his presence brings me peace and sets the tone for my day. But somewhere along the way, my focus shifts to who and what I thought I’d be by now and I become discouraged again. I’ve learned so much from all of you and want what you have. Joy. To be content with my lot. To be thankful for what I have and not long for more. To be at peace knowing God has me here for a reason and the best is yet to come. To be blessed and count it all joy. Thank you in advance for your prayers. I prayed for your son Mindy. His awareness of it all at such a young age is a blessing in disguise. Believe me. ❤️

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Praying for you Unknown. God is amazing and is always with you. So happy for feel his peace. May his blessings also give you strength and less depression. Peace to you. KS

      Delete
    2. I join with the warriors in prayer for you unknown. God is FAITHFUL!

      Blessings.

      Maplewood NJ

      Delete
    3. Continuing to pray for you dear Unknown. You are loved exactly as you are and where you are in your life. You don't need to change at all because you are already beloved by God and by us. May He lift you up and set you on a high place where you can clearly see your blessings and be thankful and joyful. Put it all in God's hands and it will surely come to pass to His glory.

      Delete
    4. Unknown - Joining warriors in prayer for your depression. Our God is greater than Satan's tool of discouragement!!!

      Delete
    5. Praying for you unknown to look up more often. You have all the answers in your head, so I'll pray for God to inscribe them in your heart...
      JOY! To be content with my lot.
      JOY! To be thankful for what I have.
      JOY! To be at peace knowing God has me here for a reason and the best is yet to come.
      JOY! To be blessed and count it all joy.
      Your battle seems to be getting satan's tools of comparison, depression and discouragement swept out of your life. Only God can battle satan. And as Sassy Mom said, Our God is greater than satan.
      God's love, God's Joy, and God's Peace are surrounding us everyday. I pray you look up with His help and catch as much of them as you can.
      Blessings to you and our entire JC Family

      Delete
    6. Echoing the prayers above dear unknown. May God renew your strength and wrap you in His Light, Peace, and Joy. In Jesus name, amen.

      Blessings from France

      Delete
    7. Dear unknown, I do not know the circumstances of your depression and your medication. But I can share a personal experience. I went thru a dark time of grief and depression where my doctor recommended medication for me to help deal with it. After almost a year I realized that my lows were not as low thanks to the meds. But I also realized that I was missing the highs and joy I thought was within reach. The meds kept me in the neutral zone and I worked with my doctor to get off them. I believe there is more joy in the world than reasons to be down and it took a little while, but my belief set me straight. I pray for you and remind you that the strength of God uplifts you. Choose joy ♥️

      Delete
    8. Unknown. thank you for your insight. I'll he praying for you as well, as you continue the battle. You will prevail in His time. Prayers for peace as you wait to be flooded with joy! Mindy

      Delete
  24. Today’s devotion spoke to me and in fact, could very well have been written with me in mind. I spend a lot of time in prayer and reading devotions, novenas, etc...however I don’t feel that I’m drawing closer to Jesus...it’s more like “tasks” that I need to check off a list... I’m embarrassed to admit that at one time I had so many different “tasks” that I made a spreadsheet to check them off! It’s more like an OCD tic than prayer...feeling like something bad might happen if I don’t check all my boxes! My rational mind knows this is not true, that our God is nothing like that!
    I’ve been praying lately that the Holy Spirit will guide me to really draw near to Jesus in my prayer life!! Keeping all of you in my prayers through the holidays!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh dear BamaGrl, thank you for sharing this with us.

      "It’s more like an OCD tic than prayer...feeling like something bad might happen if I don’t check all my boxes!"

      I could have write this too.. I can't find the right words to explain but I know God is the only one who understand. We just have to ask Him to help us and have His way in us. It takes time and it's a daily battle.
      I pray He renew your faith and stir a passion for Him in your heart. In Jesus name, amen.

      Blessings from France

      Delete
    2. Joining my prayers with yours BamaGrl and BFF, that the Holy Spirit guides us to really draw near to Jesus in our prayer life since Jesus always is always drawn near to us. Love You

      Delete
    3. I really can relate to this. I have so many people to pray for that sometimes it seems almost like a chore. But the power of prayer is so amazing and our loving Father hears every one. I find times to be alone during the day with Him and I know He understands how I feel. Those moments are the most precious, even if I'm busy making cookies or meatballs. He abides in me and I abide in Him. Praying for you BamaGrl. May His Spirit bring you closer to Him in your prayer life and in every way. Much love.

      Delete
    4. So much love in this room....it is here with y’all that I feel closest to Jesus! Thank you for your prayers and for sharing your own experience with this... it’s wonderful to not feel alone in your thoughts... I have each of you in my prayers as well!
      Merry CHRISTmas!!

      Delete
  25. Praying for Camden, Mindy..for Blessings from France (I imagined you much older)..for Unknown..BamaGrl..Lord Jesus I lift my precious friends in prayer with all JC Warriors. HolD them ever so close to you so they can hear you whispering their names. Calm their spirit..pour your amazing grace over them..AMEN!

    ReplyDelete
  26. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hope all goes well dear MadFox. Peace and blessings to you my brother.
    Since I'll be running out in the morning to help my daughter in love, I just wanted to wish everyone a blessed new day, answered prayers, much healing and comfort, and God's guidance as you walk in His presence. Praying we will be celebrating more victories. Keeping you all in my prayers.
    Ellen, How is your head feeling? Hope the infection is going away. I've had you on my mind. Terri, Praying you are feeling much better and your dear ones are recovering well. Sweet Brie, praying for you and yours too. Audra, praying you are doing well. May this new day bring many sweet glimpses of God's faithfulness and healing. Thank You Jesus!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Same blessings to you dear Jeanne. Have a wonderful time with your DIL. Enjoy those little ones🥰

      Delete
  28. Second Monday in Advent 2021
    (December 6)

    Blessed are those who mourn, For they will be comforted. (Matthew 5:4 (NRSV))

    For those who are unaware, this is St. Nicholas Day on the calendar used by our Catholic and Anglican brothers/sisters in Christ (Eastern Orthodox celebrates St Nicholas on December 19).  Very little is known of his life but much has been fabricated mostly to make him look like Santa Claus.  Here is a clip by National Geographic that provides a little background of the real person who lived and has been morphed into the person of today.

    Who Was Saint Nicholas? | National Geographic https://youtu.be/3jLO6A2NpPU

    Over Thanksgiving week, we took our family on the Polar Express in Williams, AZ,  a train ride to the ‘north pole’.  Upon arriving, there he was all dressed in his traditional red suit, waving as we rode by.  Then as we were heading back to where our trip originated, Santa Claus was on board and coming down the aisle of the train car we were sitting in.  There were 5-6 children, ages 3-6, seated in front of us.  When they turned around and saw Santa Claus coming down the aisle, the look of joy and excitement on their faces was beyond description, certainly a one of a kind look.  I just sat there and watched those sweet faces and remembered when I was a child how Santa Claus delighted me.  It was an excitement like no other.  As I watched those precious faces, I couldn’t help but wonder, ‘where has a smile like that gone in my older age?’ Life has taken its toll on that smile. But then I thought, that smile will return someday, the day I behold our LORD and that smile will remain on my face forever.   

    So what song should I pick for this devotion today?  A search of Santa Claus songs produced 54, most of which I never heard.  There are the classics, Here Comes Santa Claus, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and Up on the Housetop.  Jolly Old St Nicholas has a good thought in it that asks for gifts for Johnny, Suzie, and Nellie and ends with the request for self of what you think is right.  (Don’t ever remember thinking that way myself.)  But as I went over the songs, this one leaped out at me as the best to reflect upon.    

    Amy Grant - Grown-Up Christmas List
    https://youtu.be/RmF2rsDHOZc

    This is a good example of the beatitude quoted above.  When we mourn the ills in the world and long for them to be changed, we begin by praying for the needs of people (to the One who can really do something about it).  What is likely to happen is that we will become involved in being a part of the LORD’s solution.  In doing so, that would truly reflect the spirit of St Nicholas for what we know of him.

    With love, Bob

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MadFox -- I didn't realize you were re posting Bob's advent postings. Thank you for all that you are doing and for sharing Bob's beautiful words with us and for all that you bring to this site for us. I hope and pray that everything is going well for you and your family. God bless!

      Delete
    2. Yes, thanks MadFox for posting these and thanks to Bob for preparing them. They are really helping me to approach Advent in a meaningful way during a very challenging time. God bless.

      Delete
    3. Thanks MadFox for posting Bob's input. Concerning part of today's reading: " What I search for in My children is an awakened soul that thrills to the Joy of My Presence!" I fondly recall when our three children were small maybe aged 3, 4 and 5, coming home from the office, meeting and work weary, three little people rushing to meet me as I opened the front door. Cried of delight "Daddeee" laughter, all talking at once. Arms reaching up to be picked up and hugged. ( They're in their mid to late 40's now). The delight in their shining faces lit me up like nothing else could. My children thrilled at my presence. That's how I want to be in my daily devotions. Thrilled to meet with my Savior. Sometimes I wake up already singing and anticipating time alone with the Lover of my soul. Many times I have to work at it. No one else can take His place in my life, yet at times my morning devotions do feel like a tick box exercise. I can think of many reasons why this may be so, but essentially I need to fall head over heels in love with Him again. That's my prayer. St. Nicholas, the Advent journey, the Christmas activities at home, at church are all really good, however what will really make our Christmas and I suspect His too, is falling in love with Him all over again so that we once again thrill at the joy of His Presence.

      Delete
    4. Thank You dear MadFox for sharing Bob’s writings and gifts to help make Advent and Christmas more meaningful for so many people. Praying God’s faithfulness continues to shine Thanking Him for all the light He continues to shine on my path. He is so good and merciful. We serve such a faithful and caring God. May He lead your pretty feet to the door to every good thing He has prepared for you. Thank You Jesus!! in your life and to others through His Spirit.

      Delete
  29. See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. (Colossians 2:8). All these things My hand has made, and so all these things came to be, declares the LORD. But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at My word. (Isaiah 66:2). Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, "He yearns jealousy over the spirit that He has made to dwell in us?" (James 4:5).

    ReplyDelete
  30. Heavenly Father, thank You for always being with me and for listening to me. You are so amazing and wonderful. You are the best Father ever. No one compares to You. You mean so very much to me. I can't do anything apart from You. You complete me. You are the Creator and the One that breathed life into all of us. Your Spirit lives within each one of us. It is within us. All we need to do is to realize this and call out to You. When we come to that realization and are able to confess our sins to You and turn our hearts over to You, then You can delight in our love for You. I desire to be pleasing to You and not to be concerned with what man thinks. Help me to always keep You first and foremost in my heart, soul, mind, and body and not to let my love for You become habitual in any form. It can be easy for that to happen and not even notice we are doing it. We live in a world where habitual actions are prominent in our daily lives. We do many things in our life on "auto pilot" and we don't even realize it. We all have so many habits in our lives. Help me to not make You a "habit", but to always keep You near and dear in my heart, soul, mind, and spirit. Keep me close in Your heart and draw me closer to You. Grant me a burning desire, hunger, and thirst for You and Your word that can't be extinguished or quenched. Magnify my love and faith in You and let it grow even stronger in me every moment of every day. Thank You for all my benefits and blessings Lord. I praise You always. Thank You Jesus. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanking Him for all the light He continues to shine on my path. He is so good and merciful. We serve such a faithful and caring God. May He lead your pretty feet to the door to every good thing He has prepared for you. Thank You Jesus!!

      Delete
  31. "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31). "Everything is from Him and by Him and for Him. Glory belongs to Him forever! Amen!" (Romans 11:36). "Does a young woman forget her jewelry? Does a bride hide her wedding dress? Yet for years on end My people have forgotten me." (Jeremiah 2:32). "In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be My disciples." (Luke 14:33). "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." (Colossians 3:2).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Just what I needed to hear dear Janet. Good food today!? Thanks

      Delete
  32. My prayer today is that I turn my eyes and my focus to Jesus. That I combat anything that the enemy of this world tries to use to distract me. I pray that I can remember the Lord’s protection and love for me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amen, Lord grant this for each of us please and thank you!

      Delete
    2. Amen Joining in that prayer with gratitude and praise!

      Delete
  33. Father, I want to thank You again for all these amazing, beautiful, wonderful believers on this site and for bringing us all together here. You truly are magnificent Lord! You always know what's best for us and You bring people together to praise You and to have fellowship with each other in Your precious name. Thank You Jesus! Praise You Lord always! Thanks and love to all of you here! Peace be with you and God bless each and every one!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Blessings to you also dear Janet. We are blessed by your posts also. The family here are truly a blessing 💕

      Delete
    2. Thank the Lord for all things, and one day's portion of grace upon y'all that come here today! ♥️

      Delete
    3. Janet, amen, amen and again I say AMEN. Shouting out praise to you our redeemer and King.

      Delete
    4. Amen good sister Janet! We are all so blessed that God has led us to this place where we are bound together in faith, hope and the love of Christ! I love you all!❤️

      Delete
  34. Good morning dear family🥰. Hubby and I are need of prayer this morning. He has some covid symptoms. He is testing at 11:45am. Thank you warriors. Blessings to all💕

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Praying for your dear husband, Jan. Father, please place Your healing hands upon Jan's dear husband and remove any covid symptoms that he may have. Let Your perfect, loving hands heal him and restore him whole again. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen. God bless!

      Delete
    2. Jan - Praying to the great physician Jehovah Rapha for healing and restoration to perfect health.

      Delete
    3. If you are interested in a treatment for covid, please look up monoclonal antibody treatment. It is available at no cost, but you have to ask for it. The treatment must be administered within the first 10 days of a negative test. We were amazed at the results and felt better within 36 hours as symptoms subsided. Google it or call your public health department to ask about it's availability and to learn more. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

      Delete
    4. Lord please put your loving protection over Jan, her hubby and all her family. You hold us in the palm of your hand and for that we are grateful. Thank you for giving us eternity with you to praise you for who you are and the wonderful things you have done. What a honor and privilege it is to worship you now. Hallelujah, you are glorious!!

      Delete
    5. Joining our family’s prayers for you and your dear husband, Jan! Our God is the greatest Healer! Thanking Him for His faithfulness and a negative result! Thank You Jesus!

      Delete
    6. Dear Sweet Jan,
      I join with the JC WARRIORS and come against any demonic action and the spirit of infirmity that tries to come at your husband and you. Let these actions be quenched and cancelled now in the name of Jesus. My mighty Lord, You are more powerful than any virus or sickness. So Lord, it is with bold faith that I pray for miraculous healing and protection over all that have contacted COVID-19 and those who are most susceptible to infection. Reveal yourself, Lord, I pray that Your glory and your goodness would be put on display for the world to see. Holy Spirit, hover strongly over Jan and her husband. I plead the blood of Jesus over them. For His Honor and His Purposes, AMEN and AMEN. JJ

      Delete
  35. On it, dear Jan.💖 Love and thanks,and heartfelt prayers sent up to all the old and new posts listed: I can't wait to listen to Amy Grant's Christmas 🎵 song!
    I have a new, wonderful update on my hubby's best friend: He was able to breathe on his own for four hours as a trial run, and recognizes where he is, and even waved to a doctor that he recognized. His daughter was overjoyed, since uo to this point he hadn't. He is still on dialysis, for now, but hopefully will change. Thank you blessed family of believers for all of your prayers.
    My beautiful white tree is up, with garland and lights twinkling dear Norah: thinking of your tree decorated by your "littles" made me giggle! I just have to get after my orange tabby Mason for trying to bite the lights!
    Rich, I hope your procedure went well, and Amen to Brie's great medical report 👏!
    Love to you dear, Jeanne, and prayers for your diet.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks dear Butterfly Love! So happy your hubby's best friend is doing better and off the ventilator. Our God is so faithful!
      Thanking Him for more answered prayers. Praying with you for Rich and with thanksgiving for Brie.
      I'll bet your tree looks just beautiful.

      Delete
  36. Praying for all requests on this site today and each day! Amen.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Holding my sleeping grandson now. Please pray for my dear sister in Christ who is having a procedure on her back and hip today. We pray together.
    Father God! We are praying that you are guiding the doctor’s hand perfectly to fix Patricia’s problems and remove her constant pain. Thank You for this in the Name of Christ Jesus.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Joining in prayers for Patricia. I just saw this post, but the good Lord knows our hearts and thoughts. Father, I know that You are with Patricia and providing her with all that she needs in Your heavenly presence. Thank You Jesus. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.

      Delete
  38. Praying for Patricia as I head to bed, dear Jeanne. And for all of my JC Family.God Bless each of you. Please pray for my DH's cough and congestion; for my Only Daughter and her drive into work tomorrow (anxiety over driving in the dark) and that she is allowed to work from home during the dark months. Prayers of healing for my youngest son (the cold I had last week) and for my Ladies, who tonight gathered and prayed for their families. Please also pray for Bobbie o, on a ventilator in the hospital. God let her breathe without it! In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray for all of this and all of you. Love you SO much, JC Family!!

    ReplyDelete
  39. Thank you so much for those prayers. Patricia said everything went well. Your prayers mean so much. Praying for you and your family dear Norah,
    Loving Father, Thank You for healing Norah's hubby's cough and take away his congestion and strengthen his breathing. You can do all things and we trust in You. And also please protect her dear daughter who must drive in the dark. Give her new eyes to see clearly in any light, and heal her youngest son of his cold. And show mercy to Bobbie O, who is on a ventilator. Restore her breathing and take her off the ventilator. Lead her back to good health in the Name of Jesus! Bless and heal our dear JC Family. You know all the things we are praying for. Waiting on You dear Lord. Hear our prayers and heal your people.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Dear JC prayers, Thank you so much for your prayers for my daughter, as she faced a blood test re: cancer markers. The CEA #s were heading DOWN, so she does not have to face a hard decision about treatment. This is an answer to prayer!! She has a pet scan in December also. Thank you so much for standing in the gap for her and for our family.
    I am meeting with the pastor at a new church to try to start a prayer group. I am so grateful for God’s faithfulness, and I feel this is something I should do. Please pray that God brings like minded people. Praying for all of you this night. Ellen

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Great news Ellen! 🙏🙏🙏

      TJ

      Delete
    2. Thank You, Lord, for answered prayer! Glory to God in the highest heavens, and on earth.
      Let there be continued healing and peace in Ellen's family. Thank You that you watch over Your word to perform it! Praying Your plan and will for Ellen's prayer group. Thank You, Lord, for ALL the blessings you have bestowed upon Ellen and her family. In Jesus's Holy name, and with the Highest Praise, AMEN and AMEN.

      Delete
    3. Thank you so much for celebrating with us!!! Ellen

      Delete
    4. Hallelujah dear Ellen! Celebrating with you for our answered prayers. Thank You Father for her daughter's Pet scan in December to reap good results and for her perfect recovery and peace to her good family. In Jesus' Name we pray.

      Delete
    5. Thank you Father for your mercy and grace over Ellen and her family! We remain grateful to be the focus of your love.

      Delete
  41. Dear Father, You know how much our dear Norah trusts in You. Thank you for guiding every second of her cataract surgery today. Let her feel Your presence throughout the whole procedure, as you guide the doctor's hands to give her clear vision again. Thank you also for traveling mercies for her and her dear husband. Protect them from Covid or sickness, and any harm. Bless Norah with a sweet recovery and help her to follow the doctor's instructions perfectly, especially regarding the eye drops. We know we can trust in You because Your Words are true and Your Promises are trustworthy. Thank You for all this and also answering all our prayers in the Name of Christ Jesus. Amen.

    Psalm 9:10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.

    1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

    Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

    Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Praying with Jeanne dear Norah. You'll be fine dear girl. I had the same procedure. You will be amazed at what it does to improve your vision. Still though, I get you, any procedure must be covered in prayer. 🙏🙏💞🌈

      Delete
  42. Prayers please dear warriors. Son #2 is finally getting that cat scan for the two spots in his brain. He has put it off & while in Texas he said to us, he doesn't want to find out &, at the same time says, it's probably nothing. Dear ones, we all find ourselves at a crossroad, especially when we are hit with an issue that has yet to reveal itself. Our minds take us every which way except where peace & trust abides. When our son dropped us off at the airport, I quickly reminded him that, if God places a Goliath in front of him, He must know that there is a David inside of him. Bless you all, much love💞

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jan I join in praying that your son's CT results are good. I pray for God's peace to cover you all today as you await the results.

      Delete
    2. Praying for good results from your dear son’s Cat scan. Putting it all into God’s mighty Hands and trusting He will make all things right for your son #2. Thank You Jesus.
      Psalm 91:2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
      My God, in Him I will trust.”

      Delete
    3. Jan - Joining Warriors and echoing prayers for your son.

      Delete
    4. Praying for your dear son’s CAT scan, Jan. God has your son in the palm of His hand, and He is the great healer. I ask for full health and healing for your son. /AMEN and AMEN!

      Delete
  43. Matthew 11:28-30-28-30 MSG
    “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Lovely scripture... that is words to describe what I have been "hearing". And the key to fulfillment. Ty

      Delete
    2. Amen! Thanks dear Peter. You encouraged my weary heart. I know where my Help Cometh. My Help comes from the Lord Who made heaven and earth.

      Delete
    3. Thank you! Sent to our son in need.

      Delete
  44. Many thanks to all of you for your prayers. I will be praying for each of you (your son, dear Jan G), Jeanne - all of you and I'll share the Victory when I can see my computer! LOL!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We pray for each other sweet sister! We know God is in our midst and He hears every one. Leaning on His faithfulness that all will go well. He keeps His promises.

      Delete
    2. Norah - Joining Warriors and echoing prayers for your successful surgery.

      Delete
  45. Good morning Jesus 🙏. I'm so glad that You are in my life. Praise God always and forever! Thank You Jesus 😊.

    ReplyDelete
  46. Amen dear Janet! Praying with you and for you! Much love.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Please pray for me. Have been battling insomnia and it's wearing on me and my emotions. Thank you in advance. I pray blessings over each of you all I'm Jesus name

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am praying with and for you.
      And on most nights, I am up with you, praying in Jesus' Name. Amen.

      Delete
    2. Lots of company there and praying for you FasCB ♥️🙏

      Delete
  48. I thank you all for your prayers and I am praying for each of you. I am so sleepy. Surgery went well and I've slept on and off all day. Going to bed tonight. Tomorrow they take the bandage off. Praying I see! DH will have a carotid ultra sound sometime soon. They are thinking the blood thinner will work in the meantime. Love and Blessings and many thanks for each of you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Expect the perfect outcome by and by for you, dear Norah!

      Delete
  49. So thankful that your cataract surgery went well dear Norah! Rest well. Praying when the bandage comes off you'll be able to see much better. May God continue to heal you and your good husband in all ways, and may the carotid ultra sound reap good results. Put it all in God's Hands and rest in the peace that surrounds you. Thank You Jesus.
    Numbers 6:24-26 The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

    ReplyDelete
  50. As Maplewood stated in an earlier crossover post...December is a great, special and wonderful month. A month in remembrance of our Savior’s birth, a month when hope and redemption came into the world, a month of jubilation, celebration, a month that will FOREVER be cherished!
    To celebrate the 6th day of this celebratory month, I plan to give Jesus "F" gifts of FAITHFULLY glorifying and enjoying the FULLNESS of Joy in His Presence FOREVER, and paying it FORWARD by sharing my FAITH and the FULLNESS of this joy with others. In Jesus' Name. AMEN!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Beautiful “F” gifts for the Lord. Amen! He is all that and my best FRIEND.

      Delete
    2. Lord, I give to You the most precious and priceless gift that You have placed in my heart --FAITH! It is what makes up my entire being and what I stand upon in my life! Thank You Jesus 😊. I am Yours Lord -- FAITHFULLY FOREVER!

      Delete
    3. (NJS) Love your “F’s” for today, Brie! Thinking on that through the day. Will share it with my mom (91 in January) as I am with her in Chicago for the week. She had a bladder procedure (for urinary incontinence) Monday and did well. The effects won’t be known, however, for 7-10 days. Prayers she has relief would be so welcomed!

      Delete
    4. To Brie's list, I add FONDNESS and FIDELITY.

      Delete
  51. Prayers for their family, Norah, and husband to be comforted by His light as they wait pre, during, and post-surgery. May it be a success.

    Today's message... all I can think when reading is to be in continuous praise like Handel's Messiah.... 🎶 and He shall reign for ever and ever. 🎶 It will be glorious music although I do wonder if that is a bit of heaven thru Handel here on earth! Especially when it is the full orchestral version with a choir. Amen!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Joining in prayers with you for Norah, her husband and family and for both Madfox and Jeanne. May the healing power of our Lord touch all of you and make you whole. May He guide the doctors, nurses, and everyone else He places in your paths to bring comfort, peace, and strength. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏.

      Delete
    2. Joining in prayer warriors for your DH Norah. Both your hands will be held tightly through this as details will be attended to by the Lord of host. Amen 🙌🙏

      Delete
    3. Echoing the prayers of the Powerful JC WARRIORS for Norah and DH's procedure. Father God, be with the medical team, guide their skills, grant them wisdom. Surround Norah and DH with Your healing presence and fill them with peace. In Jesus's name, I Pray and Believe, AMEN and AMEN

      Delete
    4. Joining the JC prayer warriors in rallying around DH and his entire medical team. Please keep us posted, Norah.

      Delete
    5. 🙏 praying for Norah and DH to experience Jesus, our Fortress, surrounding them and their entire Medical Team.
      🎶 Singing Handel's Messiah.... 🎶 and He shall reign Forever and ever. 🎶 along with MadFox.
      🙏 I am also praying for NJS' Mom's surgical procedure to be a resounding success and MOM gets relief on the Fourth or Fifth day.
      I'll speak the Name of Jesus over each and every JC Prayer Warrior and their dear ones today. What a Wonderful and Powerful Name it is. The Name of Jesus! Jesus! Jesus! AMEN!

      Delete
    6. Declaring successful surgery for Norah s DH, and peace over her before, during and through recovery from today's surgery, IN JESUS' NAME!
      Grateful for His gift of FORTITUDE!
      Blessings, all.

      Delete
    7. Praying for Norah’s dear husband’s healing and for NJS’s mom’s successful surgery and all our prayer requests. Thank You Father for granting them in Jesus’ Name. Amen

      Delete
  52. Heavenly Father, thank You and bless Your holy name! I praise You Lord always and thank You Jesus 😊. Lord, I pray that the unity of the Body of Christ comes to its fullness and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May Your desires be accomplished in and through Your children. May we make You smile and be pleasing to You. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Praying this wonderful prayer with you, Janet. HALLELUJAH!!!

      Delete
    2. Yes Lord. May You come into Your FULLNESSand Your Will is done through my life on this 🌎
      In Jesus' Nane. AMEN!

      Delete
    3. Beautiful prayer dear sister! Amen and Amen!

      Delete
  53. Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations--"do not touch, do not taste, do not handle," which all concern things which perish with the using--according to the commandments and doctrines of men? (Colossians 2:20-22). Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks dear Janet! Thanks for sharing His truth! God’s laws are over man’s laws! Paul’s letters are all about that. God is over all. It’s better to please Him than to please men.

      Delete
  54. Thank you dear Janet for nourishment for our souls. Bless you with the same blessings. 🙌💕

    ReplyDelete
  55. Jesus initiated a love relationship with us.
    It is with His definition of love that we are to love Him and others too:
    "If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

    Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

    Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away."
    1 Corinthians 13:1-8

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks dear Peter and Brie!! Thank You Father God for loving me with Your Perfect LOVE despite my shortcomings. Help me to live to please you and bring you glory. Amen.

      Delete
  56. Gleaned from Isaiah 35 9-10...I want to go waltzing to Zion, singing my way to that place of right relation to God, where a joy never-ending will attend us.
    As my Advent journal says today, Take heart! He is not one to leave us hurting. Thank you Jesus! Come Holy Spirit!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 💃 & 🎶 with you until He Celebrates Me Home,

      Delete
    2. Singing with my sisters!!! 🎶! He is our joy, peace, strength, comfort, salvation and song. 💗😘🙏

      Delete
  57. I gift the Lord the "F" words FERVENT and FAVOR. You, my precious Lord, give me sooooo much encouragement when Your WORD says: ",,, The FERVENT prayer of the righteous man avails much." --- James 5:16b --- And where would I be without the FAVOR of the Lord! Psalm 5:12 -- "Surely, Lord, You bless the righteous, You surround
    them with Your FAVOR as with a shield." His FAVOR is His acceptance, goodwill, and preferential treatment towards us. He sets us in a position of advantage. As children of God, DIVINE FAVOR is our heritage! HALLELUJAH!!!

    ReplyDelete
  58. Wonderful “F” gifts for the Lord, dear JJ.. What would we be without His Grace and Favor. And without all the Fervent Prayers that He hears and answers. Hallelujah!

    ReplyDelete
  59. FAITH
    FOREVER
    FULLNESS
    FORWARD
    FRIEND
    FONDNESS
    FIDELITY
    FAITHFULLY
    FORTITUDE
    FERVENT
    FAVOR
    What a FRAGRANT Bouquet
    We gifted our Lord with today!

    ReplyDelete
  60. Hey, Dear JC Family, had to sign in and update each of you faithful Prayer Warriors. My DH's surgery was cancelled today because he took a fall last night, when going to bed. Did a face-plant, skinned everything on his face, big bump on his head and we spent about 3 1/2 hrs in the ER, today, with our only daughter (She was so wonderful!) while our other 2 sons who were here last night worked and kept things going at home. At the ER they did a CT Scan of his head, face and x-ray of his ankle. We were sent home around 5:30 and all is well. We will now reschedule the Carotid Stent Surgery and start the process all over again. It happened for a reason! Who knows what exactly that was, but we trust God knows the Way! We will wait in the Lord and follow His Lead. Not saying that God 'did' this to my DH, but He knows WHY it happened and how it will or has benefited him in some way. We just trust. So, heading to bed incredibly tired but thankful. For whatever reason, we aren't spending 24 hrs in ICU tonight after stent surgery. We are going to bed in our bed and will wake up tomorrow asking, 'What next, Lord?' He will show us the way. Love and Blessings to all of you and again, we thank you for your prayers.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Just lifting you up, Nora and DH. So sorry the day went alittle crazy. I just pray for great rest and peace for you and God's promises of Wholeness, and His Healing touch. Direct their pathway, Father. Help them make the choices that will lead them where You want them to be. Thank you for Your Grace and Mercy in this situation. Pleading the Blood of Jesus over all, in Jesus's name, AMEN and AMEN

      Delete
  61. Tomorrow will be a day of gratitude because your DH is alright and you can rest knowing God is holding everything together. Thanking Him for carrying him and you through this ordeal and guiding the scheduling of your good husband's carotid surgery. All will be well according to God's Will and Plan. Trusting Him with you both and waiting for His faithfulness with gratitude. Thank You Jesus.

    ReplyDelete