Tag Archives: faith

Revival, The Pursuit

The Lord Is Near—Do Not Turn Away

Beloved, hear the voice of the Lord—do not harden your heart, for The Lord Nears.

{Day Five}

God’s Unchanging Call to You

God never changes. He is I AM (Exodus 3:14), the eternal foundation against which all things are measured. Though the world shifts and people falter, God remains faithful, merciful, and ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5). The Lord nears, His love is abundant, His mercy overflows, and He calls to all who will listen.

Yet, He does not leave us as we are. He desires a transformation—not just an outward confession but a deep, lasting renewal in our souls. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8), not to condemn but to bring true, lasting life. Indeed, the Lord nears to bring transformation.

If you hear His voice today, do not resist (Hebrews 3:15). The hardened heart shuts out the voice of God, but the heart that is tender before Him will be filled with His presence as the Lord nears.

The Spirit Moves in Power

When the Word of God is spoken, the Spirit moves. As Peter preached, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard (Acts 10:44). This is not a distant event—it is the reality of God at work today. The Lord nears through His Word.

God’s Word is not empty—it is living, active, and powerful. Those who receive it become living letters, written not with ink, but by the Spirit of the living God, inscribed upon human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3). Your life becomes a testimony, a witness of the transforming power of God.

But transformation requires surrender. The Spirit does not merely declare us righteous—He makes righteousness our desire. The atonement in Christ’s blood has made this change possible, and the Holy Spirit makes it a reality.

What Must You Do?

If the Spirit is speaking to you, do not ignore Him. The enemy wants to keep you indifferent, distracted, or convinced that you can wait. But now is the time to seek the Lord.

Here’s how you can respond:

1. Call upon Him in prayer. Open your heart to Him and invite the Holy Spirit to reveal anything that needs to change. Remember, the Lord nears those who seek Him.

2. Repent and surrender. If there is sin in your life, confess it and ask God to cleanse you. He is ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5).

3. Read His Word with expectation. The Spirit speaks through Scripture—let it shape you.

4. Act on what you hear. Obedience is the key to spiritual growth. The more you follow His leading, the more His presence will be evident in your life.

5. Stay in community. Surround yourself with believers who encourage and challenge you to walk in faith.

A Final Warning and a Promise

The Lord is near—do not turn Him away. Indifference is dangerous. When we reject the voice of the Spirit, our hearts grow cold, and the conviction we once felt fades. But for those who seek Him, He will answer.

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.” (Isaiah 55:6)

God is calling—will you answer?

See Also

Faith, The Pursuit

Stand Firm in God

Beloved, do you not know that God has called you to Himself, to stand firmly in His truth and walk in His ways? He has called you by name, not for your glory, but for His. And yet, how can you stand firm in God if your heart remains divided? How can you stand if sin weighs you down, keeping you from the fullness of His presence?

Listen carefully: “If My people, who are called by My name, humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, NASB). This is His promise to you—a promise that requires your response. God desires your whole heart, not fragments of your attention. Stand firm in God and His promises.

To stand in the Lord, you must first repent. Do not turn away from this word, for repentance is life. To repent is to surrender, to bow low before El Elyon and confess your sins, trusting in His mercy. He does not delight in your destruction but in your restoration. Beloved, turn now! Lay your sins at the foot of the cross where Yeshua bled for you, for “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NASB).

But do not stop at repentance. God calls you to pray and seek His face. Prayer is not a ritual; it is a relationship. When you pray, you step into the presence of the Almighty, El Shaddai, who is eager to meet with you. Are you seeking His face or only His hand? Do you long for His presence, or do you seek only His blessings? Beloved, He is your greatest treasure. Seek Him with all your heart, and you will find Him. Stand firm in God through persistent prayer.

Faith will sustain you in this holy pursuit. To stand in the Lord is to believe in His promises, even when circumstances tempt you to doubt. To walk in His ways is to trust in His character, even when the path seems unclear. Faith is the anchor of your soul, the firm foundation on which you stand. Without it, you will falter. But with faith, you will rise above every storm, for “the one who trusts in Him will not be put to shame” (Romans 10:11, NASB).

And, beloved, you must submit to the sanctifying work of the Ruach HaKodesh. Sanctification is not a work of man but a work of God in you, transforming you day by day into the image of Yeshua. Do not resist His refining fire. Do not cling to what He seeks to remove. Holiness is not an option for the child of God—it is your calling. “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16, NASB). Stand firm in God as He sanctifies you.

Beloved, this is your charge: repent, pray, seek His face, and submit to His sanctifying hand. Stand in the Lord, unmoved by the storms of life, anchored in faith, and driven by His love. The God who calls you is faithful. He will finish the good work He has begun in you. Do not delay. Humble yourself before Him, for His mercy is abundant, and His love is unchanging. Stand firm in God and remain steadfast in His love.

Prayer:

Abba, we humble ourselves before You. Search our hearts and reveal every sin that separates us from You. We turn from our wicked ways, and we seek Your face, longing for more of You. Strengthen our faith, Lord, that we might stand in Your truth. Refine us, sanctify us, and make us holy as You are holy. Draw us closer, that we may walk in Your ways and glorify Your name. In the name of Yeshua, our Savior, Amen.

See Also

Faith, Spiritual

Light Without Sight: Asking El Shaddai for Wisdom

PREFACE

I am going to start trying to use HEBREW names of God in articles, as IMHO they are richer in meaning than the normal English translations. Below is a key for this article: remember to ask El Shaddai for wisdom when seeking deeper understanding.

  • El Shaddai (God Almighty) emphasizes His power and provision, which fits when speaking of His generosity in giving wisdom.
  • Yeshua (Jesus) is appropriate when discussing salvation, the gospel, or light, as He is the Light of the World.
  • Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) is used when referring to spiritual guidance, illumination, or empowerment.
  • Adonai (Lord) is often used when addressing God’s authority and sovereignty.
  • Elohim (God, Creator) highlights His divine majesty and role as the source of wisdom and truth.
  • Abba (Father) emphasizes the intimate, relational aspect of God, particularly in prayer.

Light Without Sight: Asking El Shaddai for Wisdom

Dear reader, have you ever felt lost, uncertain of what to do, or overwhelmed by the decisions before you? El Shaddai, the Almighty God, invites you to come to Him and ask for wisdom. James 1:5–8 (NASB) speaks directly to you:

“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that person ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”

This is not a passive invitation. El Shaddai desires to generously give wisdom to you—but He asks for faith in return. When you approach Him, you must trust His goodness, power, and faithfulness. Doubt will only rob you of the peace and stability He offers.

Faith Unlocks the Wisdom of Elohim

When you ask Yeshua, the Light of the World, for wisdom, you must approach Him fully convinced of His ability to guide you. James warns against being double-minded, describing doubt as being “like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” Doubt creates instability, leaving your heart torn between trust in Elohim and the distractions of this world.

The truth is, wisdom is not just intellectual knowledge—it is a gift of the Spirit, rooted in a deep relationship with Adonai. Proverbs 9:10 (NASB) reminds us: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” This holy reverence for God leads to wisdom that transforms your decisions and your life.

The Gospel Brings Light and Sight

As you seek wisdom, consider these words from 2 Corinthians 4:4 (NASB):

“The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers so that they will not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”

Satan blinds hearts and minds, preventing many from seeing Yeshua’s light and responding to it. This blindness doesn’t just affect unbelievers; it can creep into our hearts as doubt, pride, or distraction. You may know the truth, yet still lack the spiritual sight to walk in it fully.

Even Benjamin Franklin, brilliant as he was, illustrates this tragic reality. Despite hearing the gospel from the evangelist George Whitefield, he admitted he remained unconverted. He had light but lacked sight. Only the Spirit of God can open blinded eyes to see and respond to the truth.

How to Ask for Wisdom

El Shaddai offers wisdom to you freely, but He asks for your faith in return. Here’s how you can receive His wisdom: 1. Ask Boldly in Faith: Trust that Yeshua hears you and is eager to answer. “And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (Matthew 21:22, NASB). 2. Reject Doubt: Refuse to be tossed around by fear or uncertainty. Instead, anchor yourself in the promises of Elohim. 3. Seek His Presence Daily: True wisdom comes from intimacy with Yeshua. Spend time in prayer and His Word. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105, NASB). 4. Rely on the Spirit: Invite Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit, to lead and guide you in every decision.

A Prayer for Wisdom and Sight

Beloved, as you seek wisdom, remember that Adonai desires to draw you closer to Him. Pray with confidence:

Abba Father, thank You for Your promise to give wisdom generously to all who ask in faith. I lay my doubts at Your feet and trust You completely. Open my eyes to see Your truth and help me walk in Your light. By Your Spirit, guide my steps and make me a light for others, that they too may see Your glory in Yeshua, the Light of the World. Amen.

Let His Light Guide You

Beloved, don’t live in darkness or confusion. Seek El Shaddai with all your heart, and He will give you wisdom and clarity. Let the light of Yeshua transform your life, for He is the Light of the World, and in Him, there is no darkness at all.

See Also

Prayers, Repentance, The Pursuit, Unity

Awaken the Nations

Prayer for Revival and Holiness

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humble hearts, longing for Your presence to move powerfully in our lives and across the nations. Lord, we cry out for revival—start with us. Search our hearts and reveal the sins we have grown comfortable with, those hidden things that grieve Your Spirit. Forgive us for the pride, compromise, and complacency we have allowed to take root.

Cleanse us, Lord, and create in us clean hearts. Renew a steadfast spirit within us, as Your Word promises in Psalm 51:10 (AMP). Teach us to love what You love and turn away from anything that separates us from You. Let holiness be our pursuit and repentance our daily practice, as we surrender fully to Your will.

Father, as You transform us, let this revival overflow into our families, communities, and nations. Let Your Church rise up in holiness, boldness, and power, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ without fear or compromise. May we shine as lights in a dark world, pointing all people to You.

We ask that You pour out Your Spirit on every tribe, tongue, and nation. Shake the foundations of this world and make Yourself known in power and glory. Call leaders, rulers, and the lost to repentance, and let the sound of the shofar awaken all to the reality of Your sovereignty.

Lord, let Your glory cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. May we live lives that honor You, as we walk in holiness and reflect Your love to all. Revival begins with personal surrender, so we lay ourselves before You now, trusting in Your grace and strength.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

See Also

Prayers

Bold Prayers Answered

Beloved, hear the truth of God’s Word: “This is the [remarkable degree of] confidence which we [as believers] are entitled to have before Him: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14, AMP). What a glorious assurance we have! God not only listens to the cries of His children, but He also responds with power, wisdom, and love. This reminds us that bold prayers are answered when they align with His will.

Do you know this confidence in your own life? Do you approach the throne of grace boldly, trusting that the Creator of the universe inclines His ear toward you? This promise is not mere wishful thinking; it is a divine guarantee. When we align our prayers with the will of God, we step into agreement with His eternal purposes. We pray not as beggars, but as sons and daughters who are dearly loved.

The Apostle John reminds us, “And if we know [for a fact, as indeed we do] that He hears us in whatever we ask, we [also] know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted to us] the requests which we have asked from Him” (1 John 5:15, AMP). This is the confidence that fuels our faith and lifts our hearts even in the waiting. When we pray, we are not casting words into the wind; we are communing with the living God who answers.

But beloved, let us not treat this promise lightly. God’s will is revealed in His Word, and our confidence grows as we abide in Him. Jesus said, “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you [that is, if we are vitally united and My message lives in your heart], ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7, AMP). This is the key: intimacy with God leads to prayers that are both bold and aligned with His purposes.

Practical Ways to Align Your Prayers with God’s Will

1. Pray According to Scripture

God’s will is revealed in His Word. When we pray Scripture, we are praying His promises back to Him. For example:

  • If you are struggling with worry, pray “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6, AMP).
  • If you need direction, pray “Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding” (Proverbs 3:5, AMP).

2. Seek God’s Kingdom First

Jesus taught us to pray, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10, AMP). Align your prayers with God’s purposes by asking how your requests will glorify Him and further His kingdom. For instance:

  • Instead of praying only for financial provision, ask God how you can use the resources He gives to bless others.
  • When praying for healing, seek not only physical restoration but that God would be glorified through the testimony of His power and grace.

3. Pray with a Heart of Surrender

Like Jesus in Gethsemane, we must pray, “Yet not My will, but [always] Yours be done” (Luke 22:42, AMP). Trust that God’s plans are higher than your own (Isaiah 55:8-9).

  • If you are praying for a new job, surrender the outcome to God, asking for His best rather than insisting on your preference.
  • When interceding for loved ones, trust God’s timing and ways instead of expecting immediate answers.

4. Allow the Holy Spirit to Guide Your Prayers

Paul reminds us that “the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with sighs and groanings too deep for words” (Romans 8:26, AMP). Before you pray, quiet your heart and invite the Holy Spirit to lead you.

  • If you feel unsure about how to pray for a situation, ask the Spirit to reveal God’s will and guide your words.
  • Listen for His prompting to pray for people or situations you may not have considered.

5. Pray with Gratitude and Faith

Scripture calls us to “pray without ceasing, in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, AMP). Gratitude shifts your focus from your needs to God’s goodness and faithfulness.

  • Thank God for past answered prayers as you bring new requests before Him.
  • Declare your trust in His answer, even when it doesn’t look like what you expect.

A Call to Action

Are you ready to pray with this confidence? Seek the Lord with all your heart. Study His Word, for in it, His will is revealed. Surrender your desires to Him and trust that His plans are higher than your own (Isaiah 55:8-9). Then, approach Him boldly, knowing that He hears and answers.

Prayer

Father, we thank You for the confidence we have in Christ. Teach us to pray according to Your will. Help us to trust that You hear us and that Your answers are always good and perfect. Align our hearts with Yours, Lord, so that our prayers are pleasing in Your sight. Holy Spirit, guide us to pray boldly, faithfully, and in step with Your purposes. May our lives bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May you live with this truth written on your heart: God hears you, loves you, and responds to your prayers. Trust Him.

See Also

Remnant

Trust God, Return to Him

My friends, the Bible is filled with the cries of a loving God, pleading for His people to return to Him, to trust Him, and to walk in His ways. He has proven Himself faithful in every generation, and He is calling you today. Trust God and return to Him now.

The Lord says, “Return to Me, and I will return to you” (Malachi 3:7). He has not forgotten you, and He has not abandoned you. He is near, waiting for you to turn back to Him. He promises, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support]” (Hebrews 13:5).

Throughout history, God has revealed His power to save and His heart to forgive. Trust and return to God, for He is merciful:

  • “The Lord will fight for you while you [only need to] keep silent and remain calm” (Exodus 14:14). He delivered Israel from Pharaoh’s armies, and He will deliver you from whatever enslaves you.
  • He said to Joshua, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). That same God is with you today.
  • “No weapon that is formed against you will succeed” (Isaiah 54:17). In Christ, you are more than a conqueror.

The psalmist declared, “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1). “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). My friends, if your heart is broken, if your spirit is crushed, you are not alone. God is near to you right now, and He is ready to lift you up. Trust God who is near, and return to Him for He is ready to lift you up.

Jesus Himself said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). He offers you peace—not as the world gives, but as only He can give (John 14:27).

Have you wandered away? Have you let the cares of this life pull you from God? He says, “Even if your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18). “I will forgive their wickedness, and I will no longer remember their sin” (Jeremiah 31:34). Trust God and return to Him, for His mercy endures.

He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for you. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). There is no greater love!

Today, God is calling you to trust Him. To let go of fear. To turn from sin. To run back to Him. He says, “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). Trust God, return to Him. Will you come?

Pray This:

“Lord, I have wandered far, but today I hear Your voice. You are my refuge, my strength, my Savior. Forgive me, cleanse me, and restore me. I place my trust in You, Lord Jesus, and I surrender my life to You. Lead me, guide me, and teach me to walk in Your ways. Thank You for Your love and Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

And remember, my friends: “If God is for us, who can be [successful] against us?” (Romans 8:31). God loves you. Trust Him, return to Him. He will never fail you!

See Also

Faith

Where Is Your Faith?

“And my God will liberally supply (fill until full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19, AMP).

Beloved, consider this: Do you trust God with every detail of your life? He, who spoke the universe into existence and holds all things together by the power of His Word, has promised to meet your every need. Yet, how often do we doubt His faithfulness? When trials arise, when answers seem delayed, or when life feels uncertain, where is your faith? Jesus asked His disciples the same question in the midst of the storm: “Where is your faith [your confidence in Me]?” (Luke 8:25, AMP).

The God who provided manna in the wilderness, healed the sick, and raised the dead is unchanging. To Him, there is no difference between resurrection, healing, or providing food for today. Each act flows from His infinite power and is accomplished according to His perfect will. The determining question is always: “Is it in the will of God, and how will it bring glory to Him?”

Trusting God’s Provision

Faith rests not in what we see but in who God is. Jesus taught, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7, AMP). Yet He also instructed us to pray, “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10, AMP). This is the foundation of faith—trusting God’s will above our own, knowing that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).

The Apostle Paul exemplified this trust when he wrote: “I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances” (Philippians 4:11, AMP). Whether in abundance or lack, Paul relied on Christ’s strength, not his situation. This kind of faith declares, “I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me” (Philippians 4:13, AMP).

Whether it is resurrection, healing, or daily provision, each miracle reveals God’s sovereignty and invites us to trust Him. What matters is not the size of the miracle but whether it aligns with God’s purposes and brings glory to Him. As Jesus said of Lazarus’ sickness, “It is for the glory and honor of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it” (John 11:4, AMP).

A Testimony of Trust

A friend once shared how she prayed for peace and provision during a difficult season. She expected immediate answers, but God’s response came differently than she imagined. Instead of an instant solution, He provided strength through His Word, encouragement through prayer, and joy in unexpected places. Her story reminded me that God’s provision often extends beyond meeting physical needs—it touches our hearts, strengthens our faith, and draws us closer to Him.

This aligns with Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:25-33 (AMP):

“Do not worry, saying, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’… But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you also.”

God’s provision is not limited to physical sustenance; it encompasses peace in chaos, joy in sorrow, and strength in weakness. His answers may not always match our expectations, but they are always for our good and His glory.

Faith That Trusts, Not Presumes

True faith does not demand specific outcomes but surrenders to the perfect will of God. Job declared in his suffering, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15, AMP). This is the kind of faith that clings to God for who He is, not simply for what He gives.

God’s power remains the same in every work—whether raising the dead, healing the sick, or providing daily bread. To us, these acts may seem unequal, but to God, they are all part of His sovereign plan. The question we must ask ourselves is not “Can God do this?” but, “Is it His will, and how will it glorify Him?”

Where Is Your Faith?

Beloved, where is your faith? Do you trust God only when His blessings are visible, or do you trust Him in the silence, the waiting, and the unanswered prayers? God’s ultimate purpose is not merely to meet our earthly needs but to conform us to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). When trials come, trust that He is working all things for your good and His glory (Romans 8:28). Let your faith rise today, anchored in the unchanging truth of who He is.

He is Jehovah Jireh, the Lord who provides. Whether He meets a need through miraculous intervention or sustains us through patience and endurance, His faithfulness remains unshaken. Trust Him, for He never fails.

A Prayer for Faith and Salvation

O Lord, we come to You knowing that You are the God of all power and provision. Forgive us for the times we’ve doubted Your faithfulness or sought to measure Your love by our circumstances. Teach us to trust You in all things—in the moments of joy and the times of uncertainty.

Father, I pray for anyone reading this who does not yet know You. If they feel distant, draw them close by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Open their eyes to see the love You’ve poured out through Jesus Christ, who died and rose again for their salvation. For those who know You, Lord, deepen their faith. Help us to trust You not for what You give but for who You are.

Lord, we surrender our lives to You, trusting You as Savior, Provider, and King. Thank You for Your perfect will, Your unending love, and Your faithfulness to meet our every need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Exhortation

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5, AMP). Seek Him daily, press into His presence, and let your faith grow deeper as you walk with Him. If you don’t yet know Jesus, call upon His name today. He is ready to forgive, save, and transform your life. For those who already know Him, take heart—He is faithful. Where is your faith? Let it rest fully in Him who never fails.

See Also

Stewardship, Worship

Come Ready: Worship Without Hesitation

Beloved, the voice of the Lord Almighty calls to you today. The King of Kings is waiting, arms open wide, calling you by name. Cast off every excuse, distraction, and weight that keeps you from Him. The time is now. The moment is here. There will never be a better opportunity than this to respond to His voice and draw near. Worship without hesitation, and you will find peace.

Why do you hesitate? What excuse could stand before the One who formed you in your mother’s womb, who gave you life and breath? The Scriptures declare, “Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage], not as the unwise but as wise, making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity]” (Ephesians 5:15–16, AMP). To delay is to waste the precious moments entrusted to you by God. Embrace worship without hesitation.

Deep in your heart, you already know the truth. No busyness, fear, or worldly pursuit is worth missing the presence of God. He beckons you to lay it all down and approach Him with a heart eager to worship. His invitation is clear: “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened, and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]” (Matthew 11:28, AMP). This is your call to worship without hesitation.

Stewarding Time: Honoring God with Readiness

Every second of our lives is a gift, and every opportunity to gather in worship is a divine appointment with the living God. Arriving on time to worship is not merely polite but an act of reverence. It proclaims to God and the world that He is your priority, and you value the sacred time spent in His house.

The psalmist proclaims, “Enter His gates with a song of thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, bless and praise His name” (Psalm 100:4, AMP). Showing up distracted, rushed, or unprepared diminishes your worship and denies God the honor He is due. Worship is a sacred offering that requires preparation. This preparation is essential to worship without hesitation.

How do you prepare to meet with God?

Readiness begins the night before. Set aside distractions, seek Him in prayer, and ask for a heart cleansed of anything that hinders true worship. “Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, AMP). Come expectantly, ready to hear His voice and lift praises worthy of the King of Kings.

A Call to Surrender: No More Excuses

Beloved, do not allow the cares of this world to stifle God’s voice. Lay down every excuse. Whether it’s busyness, fear, or comfort, none compares to His presence’s joy. Jesus Himself commands: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also” (Matthew 6:33, AMP). Nothing that keeps you from Him is worth clinging to. Worship without hesitation is key.

Are you weary? He says, “Come.”
Lay down your burdens and find rest in His presence.

Are you thirsty? He says, “Come.”
Drink deeply from the well of His Spirit and be satisfied.

Are you broken? He says, “Come.”
Bring your wounds to the One who heals and restores.

Now is the time. Today is the day. Lay aside every excuse and run to Him. The Lord waits with open arms, longing to draw you into deeper intimacy with Him. “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18, AMP). Do not delay. Do not linger. Answer His call with urgency and worship without hesitation.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We hear Your voice and respond to Your call. We lay down our excuses, distractions, and pride. Forgive us for placing anything above You. Teach us to honor You with our time, to come into Your presence with reverence and joy, and to worship You with hearts fully surrendered. Awaken within us a hunger to seek You first, to worship without hesitation, and to honor You in all that we do. Draw us ever closer, Lord, and let our lives reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Mercy, Religion

Walking in True Religion

True religion is not found in outward appearances, rituals, or empty traditions. It is a way of life that reflects the very heart of God—a life of mercy, justice, and humility. These are not abstract ideals but divine commands, given to shape how we relate to God and others. True religion calls us to love with purity, act with integrity, and walk in deep dependence on the One who teaches and empowers us.

The prophet Micah captures the essence of true religion when he declares, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you except to be just, and to love [and diligently practice] kindness (compassion), and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8, AMP). This is God’s call to us: to reflect His mercy, uphold His justice, and walk humbly in His presence. Let us explore these pillars of true religion and the essential role of the Divine Teacher in guiding us to live them out.

Mercy: Reflecting the Heart of God

Mercy is at the core of God’s nature. It is the unmerited compassion He extends to us and the attribute He calls us to embody in our dealings with others. The Lord declares, “For I desire [steadfast] loyalty and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6, AMP). True religion begins with a heart of mercy—a heart moved by the suffering of others, eager to bring relief and restoration.

Jesus reinforces this in His Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed [content, sheltered by God’s promises] are the merciful, for they will receive mercy” (Matthew 5:7, AMP). Mercy is not an optional virtue; it is a divine mandate. In the parable of the unmerciful servant, Jesus warns that those who withhold mercy will face the consequences of their own unforgiveness (Matthew 18:33). Mercy is not merely forgiving wrongs but actively seeking the good of others, especially the vulnerable and oppressed.

The Good Samaritan exemplifies mercy in action. He saw the wounded man on the road, and “he felt compassion and went to him and bandaged his wounds” (Luke 10:33-34, AMP). True religion moves beyond lip service to hands-on compassion, mirroring the mercy we have received from God. As Jesus commands, “Be merciful [responsive, compassionate, tender] just as your [heavenly] Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36, AMP).

Justice: Living Out God’s Righteousness

Justice is the outworking of God’s righteousness in human relationships. The psalmist declares, “The Lord loves righteousness and justice” (Psalm 33:5, AMP). Justice is not limited to the courtroom; it extends to how we treat one another daily. God calls His people to uphold fairness, protect the weak, and ensure that everyone receives what is due.

Isaiah charges us: “Learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the ruthless, defend the fatherless, plead for the [rights of the] widow” (Isaiah 1:17, AMP). Justice involves more than avoiding wrongdoing; it requires active intervention on behalf of the oppressed. The prophet Amos captures the urgency of this call: “But let justice run down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream [flowing abundantly]” (Amos 5:24, AMP). Justice is relentless, pouring out as a testimony of God’s kingdom on earth.

Jesus also emphasized the primacy of justice, rebuking the Pharisees for their hypocrisy: “You give a tenth… and yet you have neglected the more important matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23, AMP). True religion seeks to establish God’s righteousness in every sphere of life—our homes, workplaces, and communities. It is a call to live honorably, ensuring that our actions align with the truth of God’s Word.

Humility: The Posture of True Religion

Humility is the soil in which mercy and justice take root. Without humility, our acts of mercy can become self-serving, and our pursuit of justice can turn into arrogance. God commands us to “walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8, AMP). This means recognizing our dependence on Him, submitting to His will, and serving others with a heart that reflects Christ’s example.

Jesus modeled ultimate humility, leaving His throne in heaven to serve humanity. Paul writes, “Have this same attitude in yourselves which was in Christ Jesus [look to Him as your example]… He emptied Himself [without renouncing His deity], taking on the form of a bond-servant” (Philippians 2:5-7, AMP). True religion is not about seeking status but about serving others with the same humility that Christ demonstrated.

The Lord exalts the humble and resists the proud (James 4:10). Humility acknowledges that we are nothing without God. It is the posture of Mary, who chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His teaching, understanding that “only one thing is necessary” (Luke 10:42, AMP). Humility allows us to be shaped by God’s hands, aligning our hearts with His purposes.

The Divine Teacher: Empowering True Religion

None of this is possible without the guidance and empowerment of the Divine Teacher. From the beginning, God has revealed Himself as our Instructor, saying, “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go” (Isaiah 48:17, AMP). His Spirit teaches us His truth and enables us to live it out.

Jesus promised, “They will all be taught by God” (John 6:45, AMP), and this promise is fulfilled through the Holy Spirit. Paul writes, “We have received…the [Holy] Spirit who is from God, so that we may know and understand the wonderful things freely given to us by God” (1 Corinthians 2:12, AMP). The Spirit illuminates Scripture, convicts us of sin, and strengthens us to walk in obedience.

The psalmist declares, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you [who are willing to learn]” (Psalm 32:8, AMP). True religion is not a human effort; it is a divine work. The Divine Teacher shapes our hearts, aligns our wills with His, and empowers us to live in mercy, justice, and humility.

Conclusion: A Life That Glorifies God

Beloved, true religion is not about what we do for God but about what He does in us and through us. It is a life of mercy that reflects His compassion, a pursuit of justice that reveals His righteousness, and a walk of humility that glorifies His name. None of this is possible apart from the instruction and empowerment of the Divine Teacher.

Let us surrender ourselves fully to God, asking Him to teach us His ways and lead us in His truth. As we walk in true religion, we glorify Him and bear witness to His kingdom on earth.

Prayer:

Father, we thank You for calling us to walk in true religion. Teach us to be merciful as You are merciful, to seek justice as You command, and to walk humbly before You. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may reflect Your heart in all we do. Guide us, instruct us, and empower us to live lives that glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Devotion to God

Pour Out Your Life

Beloved, hear this truth: your life is not your own. You were bought with a price: the precious blood of Jesus Christ. To pour out your life is not a burden but a privilege, a holy calling to reflect the love and power of God. Yet, I urge you, do not strive in your strength, for man’s work alone is empty. Instead, abide in Him, for it is through His Spirit that you are strengthened and made complete.

Consider the words of Paul, who said, “I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me” (Galatians 2:20 AMP). This is the essence of pouring out your life: dying to self and allowing Christ to live through you.

Beloved, do not be deceived by the lie of self-sufficiency. The flesh will fail you, but God’s power is made perfect in your weakness. When you feel weary, remember that His grace is sufficient for you. Rest in His promises and draw near to His presence, for He is not a God who demands without equipping. He has promised, “My power is being perfected [and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9 AMP). In your surrender, He will supply all you need.

You are called to serve—not as one who labors for earthly gain, but as a vessel of His glory. Pour out your life as an offering to the Lord, not with the frantic striving of human effort, but with the restful assurance that His Spirit is at work in you. Remember the words of Jesus: “I am the Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing” (John 15:5 AMP). Let your life flow from this union with Him.

Do not measure your service by the world’s standards or seek recognition for your labor. Instead, press into the presence of God, and let Him fill you with His strength and joy. Serve with a heart fully surrendered, trusting that He will accomplish through you far more than you could ever achieve on your own.

Beloved, hear this call:

  • Pour out your life as an act of worship.
  • Rely on His strength, not your own.
  • Rest in His presence, for He is your source of life.

Walk in this truth: Your life poured out in service to God is a fragrant offering pleasing Him. Yet, not only does your effort sustain you, but His Spirit is alive within you. Rest in Him, abide in Him, and let Him do the work through you.

I leave you with this prayer:

Lord God, strengthen Your beloved in their calling. Let their hearts be full of Your Spirit, their hands empowered by Your grace, and their lives poured out for Your glory. May they rest in Your strength and abide in Your presence, bearing fruit that remains for eternity. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Walk boldly, beloved, in the power of His Spirit.

See Also