Thankfulness – (Re-post)

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. Psalm 100:4

Have you entered into the Lord’s gates today? I heard a message a while ago where the Pastor preached on our covenant with God. I was thinking how blessed we are that Christ’s death and resurrection created a covenant for us with the Father – for all born-again believers! What a joy to meditate on that today. So today, I want to encourage each of you toward righteousness.

We do not need to be defeated Christians. We do not need to give in to temptation. We just need to be hard workers at our faith in our precious Saviour. There is many a lady who gives it her “all” when it comes to caring for her husband, her family, her home, etc. We can’t stop there … we need to care for our spiritual lives with just as much zeal and effort. Yes, cleaning the bathroom and doing laundry is a chore. I just don’t get that same effervescent feeling the lady in the commercial gets about my scrubbing bubbles cleaning my toilet, you know? 😁 It’s WORK to get these chores done – but the feeling of satisfaction afterwards is priceless!

Making sure that we cover all the areas of our spiritual lives is work also. But this “work” has eternal results. The work in our homes is temporary – the dust will always come back and there will always be dishes and laundry to do. But the work we do for the Lord is forever. I think of Christ’s account of Mary and Martha. He did not use a parable here but referred to actual women. The Lord placed this account in His Word especially for us! Mary spent her time at His feet while Martha carried on with the chores. Mary gleaned from the Master while Martha missed out on His blessings from the Word.

Working at our spiritual lives is just that – WORK! Here is a little something that helps me strive in this area of training myself and I want to share it with you.

W – Wake up with the Lord with song! Sing your favorite hymn – you know the one – it just speaks to your heart and gets you in the right mood – Mine is “How Great Thou Art”

O – Open my heart to Him in prayer. I believe in making my heart right with God before praying for others. I confess my sins, I scootch into His side and then I pray for others. I have a prayer list – in fact, I’m making a prayer journal to start using – and I keep this list with my Bible – the list is so long but I’ve broken it down by days, so each day has a different grouping of people (i.e. Sunday = church family; Monday = missionaries; etc). I record specific details for each of these people so I’m praying for specific needs, not generalities.

R – Read His Word! Reading God’s Word is a learned trait that can greatly enhance your spiritual journey. It’s important to approach His Word with an open heart and mind, allowing it to inspire and guide you rather than becoming overly stringent in your study. By doing so, you can truly enjoy the richness and depth of Scripture, discovering lessons and insights that will apply to your daily life. I have a dedicated time for reading each day, which allows me to immerse myself in different passages—reflecting on their meanings, pondering their applications, and letting them fill me with peace and understanding. Embracing this routine not only deepens my faith but also brings a sense of joy and fulfillment that comes from connecting with the divine message.

K – Keep Him in the forefront of my mind all day. When I have sung, prayed and read, it’s pretty hard to forget the God I started your day with.

I used to have my time with Him at night because my children were early risers and I was “running” from the time they woke up till it was time for their bedtime. As mothers, our lives come in “seasons.” No matter what time suits you best, make it a habit. You may have to adjust the time as your home changes seasons but keep at it.

If you don’t have a special time, resolve to yourself to make one. If you want to succeed at this, hold yourself accountable to someone. Ask a good friend to ask you daily if you spent your time with the Lord. One who won’t take excuses but will lovingly tell you that your excuse is not a good one!

Dear God…
Help me to be like Mary
As I start this day, oh Lord
Mindful of the things I’ve gleaned
From Your Holy Word!

The Seeds of Life

Matthew 13:19-23  When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.  (20)  But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;  (21)  Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.  (22)  He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.  (23)  But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

The greatest seed is that of God’s Word as we see in the Parable of the Sower. The seed of the gospel falls on a rocky heart when the hearer doesn’t understand it. Then the seed that falls in stony places doesn’t take root firmly or deep enough. The hearer understands what he has heard but because it has not taken root in his heart, he quickly loses interest. The next is when the seed falls amongst the thorns. The hearer understands the gospel and accepts it, but then the cares of this world, the distractions from riches choke everything he understood, and he falls away. Lastly the seed that falls on good ground, a ready heart, hears the gospel, accepts it and understands it, and the person comes to salvation in Jesus Christ. This seed grows in the person’s life, and he bears fruit. There is evidence in his salvation.

What kind of seeds are being sown in life and in the lives of others? Let’s compare our spiritual life as that of a peach tree.

  • Adequate sunlight – You cannot bear fruit with the sunlight. Neither can a person bear fruit for God without His Son, Jesus Christ. You must be born again (John 3:3) in order to bear fruit.
  • The soil must be well drained. It cannot be hardened mud but good soil. When the heart is hard, it won’t listen or absorb what the Bible teaches.
  • Soil needs consistent watering. Just like in our own spiritual life, we need the Bible to water our spiritual heart. Jesus said: (John 7:38)  He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
  • Pruning and controlling pests – Our spiritual lives are pruned when we recognize sin in our lives and repent from them. Repentance is a change of one’s mind and a determination that we won’t do that sin again. Jesus said: (Joh 15:2-3)  Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.  (3)  Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. What would you consider as the fruit of verse 2?
  • Fertilizer – God’s Word is the best fertilizer for our spiritual life. Reading, meditating and applying what we have learned. (Psa 119:11)  Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Many a time God brings a verse to my mind in time of need. I may not remember the address but I remember the verse. There is always a Bible verse that applies to every area of life.
  • Spreading Your Faith – The Holy Spirit started the Church when the disciples were in the upper room waiting as the Lord had told them to do. (Acts 2:2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. Just as the Holy Spirit came to the Church, so are we to spread that wind to the world. When the wind gets a hold of seeds from a dandelion or a maple tree, it carries it to its destination and that seed creates another life. So are we to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with those that cross our path.

Having a spiritually healthy “fruit tree” in our lives helps us to plant healthy seeds in those people we come in contact with. If you’re a shy person, hand out tracts. The gospel’s seeds are spread, and the Holy Spirit is in charge of the rest!

Could You Be Wrong? (Re-Post)

The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. (Psalm 9:17)

The believer who is concerned about lost souls has heard many excuses as to why someone won’t be saved. One of the excuses I’ve heard is that there is no God and that when one dies, that’s the end. [To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.] The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. (Psalm 14:1)

Seems to me, I would rather take precautions while I had still had the chance than to find out that it’s too late to make any changes. I think of Jesus’ account of the rich man and Lazarus. In all of Jesus’ stories, this account was the only one that He gave the name of an individual. This was a true story and Luke, the physician, goes into great detail when he records Jesus’ account in Luke 16:20-31. The rich man no longer had an opportunity to be saved, he no longer had an opportunity to warn his family – that was it! He was stuck in hell, burning, thirsting and hurting for all eternity!!

I once heard one of our dear senior saints say, “Eternity is too long and hell fire too hot for me to take the chance of hell not being true!” Oh so very true! These are not the words of a fool, that’s for sure. The word “hell” is found in 54 verses in the Word. God wants us to know all about this place where the unrepentant sinner will go. This place called hell will be a horrifying place where the pain is so great that there will be gnashing of teeth. Noah Webster defines it as:

A grinding or striking of the teeth in rage or anguish.

I found it interesting that there are seven verses which use this phrase “gnashing of teeth.” God’s perfect number is the number seven which means “completion”! Man’s rejection of Him will be complete when he is cast down into hell’s fires. There won’t be any more chances to accept Jesus Christ as the only way to Heaven. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6) Allah won’t be able to help you. Buddha won’t be able to help you. Mary won’t be able to help you. Only Jesus can help you – and only while you are yet living, my friend.

But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mat 8:12)

And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (Mat 13:42)

And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (Mat 13:50)

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mat 22:13)

And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mat 24:51)

And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mat 25:30)

There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. (Luke 13:28 )

If you are reading this today and you are not 100% convinced that you are going to Heaven when you die, then I hope that you will let these verses speak to your heart and not be the fool as the rich man was. Denying there is a God does not remove the fact that He does exist. God is the beginning and the end. All things started with Him and all things will end with Him. He is not mocked and He does hold judgment for those who reject Him. He also holds reward of salvation for those who accept Him.

And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. (Rev 21:6)

The Lord Thinks About You!

If you are a true born-again believer, then you can rest assured that God thinks about you. His Holy Spirit is ever with us, residing in us, guiding our thoughts and actions in every moment of our lives. Therefore, God is in the midst of all that you do and sees everything, good or bad, from the smallest acts of kindness to the heaviest burdens of sin. Because of that, we should be very aware of what we participate in, consciously assessing our choices and their alignment with His will. Are we sinning? God is right there in the middle of it! Do we reject His quiet urging towards righteousness? Or do we continue in that sin? We can understand why David wrote: “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me,” (Psalm 51:10). You cannot hide from God because His Spirit is in you!

For those Christians who contemplate infidelity or sex outside of marriage, you are taking God into your sin! This thought should drill down deeply within your heart and mind, as it highlights the gravity of such actions. If everyone thought of their sin in this manner, I dare say there would be more of a desire to live righteous lives! Imagine how different our lives could be if we regularly considered the impact of our choices, understanding that our actions not only affect ourselves but also those around us. It is vital to acknowledge that entering into these relationships outside the sacred bond of marriage can lead to emotional turmoil, broken trust, and a distancing from the grace of God. Embracing a life of submission to God and His Word, as well as a commitment to Him, can elevate our moral standards, and ultimately draw us closer to the purpose that God has laid out for us. When we do this, we can clearly understand that He sees everything.

It is always such a blessing when I hear from someone that they are thinking of me. Someone out there loves me and thinks of me! God thinks of me … why should the God of all creation think of me!?? He loves us with an ultimate and pure love. There is no greater love than God’s!

Because I am God’s child, He is concerned about every area of my life and deeply desires my well-being. He wants me to have a peaceful life in the midst of fiery trials, and He offers comfort and strength in moments of uncertainty. You’ve been there, haven’t you? Your children are all you think of in your decision making, constantly weighing choices that will affect their futures and happiness. Similarly, God is the perfect Father, who thinks of you all the time, even in small, fleeting moments. His love encompasses every detail in your life, allowing challenges and victories alike so that He can train you to be a spiritual adult, growing in faith and resilience. Through these experiences, He nurtures your character, teaching you valuable lessons about trust, patience, and the importance of relying on His guidance. Ultimately, every circumstance is a part of His divine plan, shaping you into the person He envisions.

God loves you so much! He is your ultimate cheerleader when you do right, encouraging you every step of the way, and celebrating your successes in your spiritual life with immense joy and pride! His love is unconditional and boundless! He provides a guiding light through both the challenges and triumphs you face. So much so, He sings over you, reminding you that you are never alone on this journey of faith and growth. Let that love impact your life, let it uplift you, and shine brightly as you navigate your path with confidence knowing you have a Father who loves you deeply!

Start your day knowing that the Holy Spirit of the Living God is with you 100% of the time! You take Him with you, whether that be in serving Him or sinning against Him. Keep that in mind. As a true born-again believer, you should be desperately shattered when you realize God was in the midst of your sin. Don’t allow yourself to get to this point. Allow His Spirit to convict you of sin and then resist it. It is possible to do so!

I would rather God think of me as a proud Father, delighting in my journey and singing over me with joy, than as a Father who is disappointed at my choices, wishing I had taken a different path. 😔 It is the understanding that my life, with all its ups and downs, is a testament to my growth in Christ, that brings me comfort. I seek a relationship filled with love, where my decisions, though flawed at times, are seen as learning experiences. I yearn for that connection, where I can feel His pride radiating in my heart, encouraging me to continue pushing forward in faith and hope.

If you have stumbled upon this devotional and have struggled with your position in Christ, strengthen that position by making certain that you are truly born again. I stress the word “truly” because there are many “Christians” that claim the title but haven’t really be born again. Won’t you visit this link and make doubly sure of your position in Christ? You will never regret being born again, but you will regret not taking this opportunity before you die.

What Are We Good For?

Today’s lost world looks at “Christianity” and mocks it. We see it on television, books and movies all the time. The Christian is depicted as some lunatic. Yes, the world probably has always viewed the believer in this light. But I believe we are viewed in this way much more today. Why do I think this? All I have to do is to look at those professing Christ around me. They do not have the praises of God in their mouths. They do not have their two-edged sword in their heads, heart, and mouths, let alone in their hand. The topic of Jesus Christ does not come up in general conversation amongst believers – why should His name be spoken in the presence of unbelievers? Of all places to speak Christ’s name is in the presence of unbelievers!

I’m saddened by the lack of testimony the Church holds today. No wonder the world laughs and turns away in doubt and cynicism. No wonder they do not want what we have, as the light we are meant to shine seems dimmed by our differences. My heart aches for today’s Church, which should be a source of unity and strength, yet we find ourselves at odds with one another. We can’t agree on a Bible, we can’t agree on basic doctrine – even in the fundamentals. I heard a message preached that more churches are started today due to splits rather than from a new work. How sad is that?

What type of vessel are you? Are you a vessel of honour or dishonour? Consider this deeply as you meditate on your spiritual journey. When was the last time you led a soul to Christ? Have you ever had the joy and privilege of leading a soul to the Lord? If you have not, do you even know how to share the message of salvation? If you do not, that should be a vital part of your daily checklist! God first, then loving your neighbor as yourself; this latter command not only encompasses acts of kindness but also the crucial responsibility of guiding others toward a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Each day presents a fresh opportunity for us to reach out to those around us, shining a light of hope in their lives. Embrace this calling with an open heart and a willingness to be used as an instrument of His grace, and sharing the transforming love that comes from faith in Jesus.

If you don’t know how, follow this link and it provides all the Bible verses you need to lead someone to salvation. If you’re not truly born again, read it with the intention of absorbing what it says. I pray you are blessed!

One Sacrifice, One Offering

Having been raised in the Catholic Church, I was taught that the priest offered Christ as a sacrifice during the mass, and it was done daily. However, what do we do when we read the Bible and it teaches differently?

It is clear that there are no more offerings or sacrifices needed for the sins of man. Therefore, there is no need for a Catholic priest to offer the sacrifice of the mass. Jesus paid the price … it was perfect! Hebrews 10:14 (above) says that Jesus perfected them that are sanctified. You cannot be more “perfect” because Christ paid that perfect price.

If you are a Catholic reading this devotional, what do you do with those Scriptures? Do you disregard them and stick to what the Catholic Church has taught you? If yes, are you no different than the Pharisees that Jesus called whited sepulchers and blind guides? Jesus warned us in:

Friend, Jesus tells us not to lay aside what is in the Scripture and replace them with the traditions of men. The Catholic Church relies heavily on Catholic tradition. Unfortunately, they will defend the traditions rather than God’s Word. There is nothing that will convince them otherwise. Only the Holy Spirit of the Living God can change their hearts and minds. How do I know this? The Holy Spirit did that in my own life. I was one of those Catholics!

Please, no matter what religion you are, if you are not 100% sure you will go to Heaven, please take a few minutes and read the Bible verses listed on this link. Please read them with a desire to know God! He will reveal Himself to you!

God’s Promises (Re-Post)

(Psa 56:12) Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. 

Sadly, today’s wedding vows are not taken as seriously as they once were. But the vows of the Bible were permanent ones – not just in marriage but in any contract or promise.

The most popular promise or vow known to believers is God’s promise to Noah that He would never destroy the entire earth by flood again. The Lord sealed that vow with a rainbow and each time we see a rainbow today, we remember that vow. Is God a liar? Has the earth been flooded since Noah’s time? No, God is not a liar and this vow will continue. Psalm 56:12 says that God’s promises (His vows) are upon me! What promises? Well, one of them is (Gal 3:22) But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. We are promised eternal life when we repent and accept Jesus Christ as our Saviour!

There are many promises of God in the Bible – many to the nation of Israel which have not been fulfilled yet. But they will be! You can count on it. God is not a man that He should lie (Rom. 3:4). God’s Word says that Israel will overcome her enemy. The Muslims can do whatever they want but they will not win. God says so in His Word. Christ will come again in Jerusalem and every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord. (Phi 2:10) That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; It doesn’t say Allah, it doesn’t say Buddha, it doesn’t say Mary – but the Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Son of God – the Beginning and the End – the Alpha and the Omega – the One and Only Saviour of mankind.

God’s vows are never broken because He is perfect – He is not a sinner. Only man breaks his vows – his promises. Whatever promises are left to be fulfilled in God’s Word, WILL be fulfilled. You can count on it – you can be sure – you can depend on it. It’s comforting to know that our Father in Heaven does not take His vows lightly. Quite the opposite – He takes them very seriously and will not shirk His responsibility. Our eternal security was promised to us – once we’ve accepted His Precious Son and Christ’s work on the cross as the only way to Heaven, He will not break His promise. We are sealed – we are secure – never more to question because the Maker of that promise is our God. His rainbow still appears and so shall we see Him face-to-face when we die. Thank You Lord!

Isa 25:1 O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.

Why A Rock?

The Bible uses the symbolism of a “rock” to refer to God? A rock signifies strength, stability, and permanence. These are qualities that are essential in understanding the nature of God. Just as a rock withstands the test of time and the forces of nature, God is portrayed as unchanging and reliable amid the uncertainties of life. This image offers us a sense of safety and security, as we can trust in God’s unwavering support during difficult times.

It’s interesting to note that in ancient cultures, rocks were often seen as foundational elements of shelter and protection, emphasizing the idea that God serves as a refuge for those seeking solace and guidance. The metaphor of God as a rock serves to encourage faithfulness, reminding the faithful that, like a rock, God provides a solid foundation upon which they can build their lives and endure challenges.

Another interesting tidbit is that many biblical end-time scholars believe that God will provide a place made of rock during the Tribulation in what some believe to be Petra. This site, known for its stunning rock-hewn architecture and natural defenses, has been a point of intrigue for many who study prophecy. If it is to be Petra, isn’t it like God to use rocks as a reminder of His steadfastness and refuge?

The symbolism of a solid foundation amidst our chaotic lives reflects the unchanging nature of His promises. I don’t know about you, but this gives me an overwhelming sense of security. I know that when I seek shelter in Him during troubled times, I can trust God to be my solid foundation. Such a promise serves as a spiritual testament that even in the most tumultuous of circumstances, there is a sanctuary to be found.

Is there anything in your life that can promise you such a sanctuary? Do you find comfort and strength from the world, or is it merely a distraction from the longings of your heart? There is no perfect human being who can flawlessly provide this, with all of their limitations. However, there is a perfect God who loves you unconditionally and desires to be your refuge in times of trouble. The Lord’s presence offers a sanctuary that transcends the chaos of life, a place where you can find peace and solace. When you choose to seek Him diligently and open your heart to His guidance, you will discover that His love is unwavering and ever supportive. This provides a sanctuary that your spirit yearns amidst the trials of the world.

If you happened to come to this blog and cannot honestly say you are born-again, please follow this link and it will outline Bible verses that will show you how to be saved.

How Great Thou Art (Re-Post)

Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. (Psa 40:5) This morning, my spirit is overwhelmed with thankfulness and gratefulness to my Heavenly Father. My heart is overflowing with blessings because I have a Father who loves me and cares for me. His face do I seek for comfort through all my trials and His Word do I search for direction.

There is none like my God! He knows me personally – He calls me by name – He knows every single fiber of my being – He has the very hairs on my gray head numbered – He tells me that His yoke is easy! What yoke? The yoke of the Christian life. Once we are born again, he places His yoke upon us. A yoke has two openings for the oxen’s heads. Does this not excite you? It does me! This shows me that my Jesus is right there alongside me, carrying the burdens, carrying my cross with me, helping with the load of care! Oh, brother and sister in Christ, isn’t that just a spirit lifter? Oh, how I love Psalms! As I read them, the Lord reminds me of verses elsewhere which tie in beautifully.

Jer. 29:11-13 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (11) Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. (12) And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. (13) Thank You, Lord, for being “right there” and so easily accessible. I no longer have to go through a high priest, priest or Mary – I have direct access to the Father through His Precious Son, Jesus Christ, my One and Only Mediator. You know my thoughts, my motives, my heart, my desires – there’s nothing You don’t know about me. Yet, You loved me anyway, despite my horrid sinful nature. My heart and my mouth will never cease to praise You!

How Great Thou Art

O Lord my God! when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed:

Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul! my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When through the woods and forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees;
When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze:

Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul! my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin:

Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul! my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, my God, how great Thou art!

Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul! my Savior God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

Cast Thy Burden (Re-Post)

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. (Psalm 55:22)

Oh what a blessing this verse is when one of God’s children is going through trials. Sometimes our burdens seem to weigh us down. But my friend, we born again believers have a Heavenly Father who cares for us and desires to relieve us of our burdens. The God of all creation wants us to call upon Him. As I pondered this thought, I did a search in my Bible software on the phrase “upon the Lord” – what comfort and joy the search results brought to me. Let me share some of them with you:

In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry did enter into his ears. (2 Sam. 22:7)And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD; and he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering. (1 Chron. 21:26)

Thus the children of Israel were brought under at that time, and the children of Judah prevailed, because they relied upon the LORD God of their fathers. (2 Chron. 13:18 )

I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. (Psalm 18:3)

In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears. (Psalm 18:6)

For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. (Psalm 37:9)

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. (Psalm 55:22)

Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them. (Psalm 99:6)

I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. (Psalm 118:5)

Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us. (Psalm 123:2)

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (Isa 40:31)

And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. (1 Cor. 7:35)

Our Father cares for His children so much and longs to have this close relationship with us. So many of us take this for granted and don’t go to Him with all our cares. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Pet 5:7) Don’t you desire to run to a place where the Father is waiting to listen to your every word? He is not distracted by the television. He is not indifferent to your needs. He will be as close to you as you allow Him to be.

Dear God…
I want to be so close to You … so much so that one can tell by my actions that I have come in contact with You! May you be glorified in my every thought, word and deed! Amen