Tag Archives: God’s presence

Faith, Spiritual

Come Higher: Lay It All Down Before the Lord

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{Day Six}

Beloved, do not be deceived—there is always more of God to be found. Have you tasted the sweetness of His presence, only to realize how little you have truly known Him? Has the fire of His revelation burned away the illusions of your past faith, leaving you undone? Do not shrink back. This is His mercy drawing you deeper. Remember, there is always a chance for more of God no matter the cost.

Many say they know Him, yet they walk in shadows, content with a dim reflection of His glory. But you—He is calling you higher. He is shaking the very ground beneath you, removing what can be shaken, so that only He remains. Will you resist Him? Will you cling to the old, lifeless things He is tearing away? Or will you fall before Him and say, Take it all, Lord—only give me more of You!

The Fire of His Presence Demands Everything

Isaiah saw Him and cried out, “Woe is me!” (Isaiah 6:5). Moses trembled before Him and removed his sandals (Exodus 3:5). Peter fell at Yeshua’s feet, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, Lord!” (Luke 5:8).

What will you do when the weight of His glory comes upon you? Will you shrink back in fear, or will you press in, crying, “Burn away every impurity, Lord—only let me know You!” This is the journey of seeking more of God no matter the cost.

The Spirit is calling, but the cost is high. You cannot hold onto your comfort, your pride, your reputation, your control. He is asking for your entire life. Nothing less. All that you are, laid at His feet.

“If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23 NASB)

Many have stopped at salvation, satisfied that they have escaped hell. But there is more, far more. Yeshua did not die merely to rescue you from destruction—He died to bring you into the fullness of Himself. His cross was not the end of your journey but the beginning. Will you press on, or will you settle for less? Choose to seek more of God no matter the cost.

Break the Illusions—Come Into the Light

You thought you knew Him before. Perhaps you did. But now you see—there is an ocean of glory you have yet to dive into. Every revelation, every breaking, every fire He allows is an invitation: Come closer. See more. Be transformed.

Paul, a man who saw the risen Lord, who was caught up into the third heaven, who performed mighty signs and wonders, still cried out:

“I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Yeshua my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them mere rubbish, so that I may gain Christ.” (Philippians 3:8 NASB)

Are you willing to count all things as loss? Your past experiences, your reputation, your plans—will you lay them down, if only to have more of Him? This is the path of desiring more of God no matter the cost.

The lukewarm will not see His face. The comfortable will not taste the depths of His presence. But to the hungry, to the desperate, to those who cry out, “More of You, Lord!”—He will reveal Himself.

Will You Answer His Call?

This moment is holy. He is drawing you now. You feel the stirring, the weight of His voice calling you out of shallow waters. Will you listen? Will you follow?

Do not delay. Do not harden your heart. Lay everything down and run after Him. He is waiting to fill you with more of Himself than you ever thought possible. Truly, you can have more of God no matter the cost.

A Prayer of Surrender

Father, I hear You calling, and I will not turn away. I lay my life at Your feet—every dream, every plan, every comfort. Burn away everything that is not of You. Take me deeper. Open my eyes. Break me if You must, but do not let me remain as I am. I want You, Lord—more of You, no matter the cost. I give You my whole heart. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

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Revival, The Pursuit

The Lord Is Near—Do Not Turn Away

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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?

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Hearing God’s Voice

Speak, Lord, for Your Servant is Listening

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God is speaking to His people. His voice is not distant or silent; He longs to guide, to instruct, and to pour out His plans for your life. Yet, the question remains: are you listening? Are you ready to respond when He calls, as in the Scripture, “Speak Lord for Your Servant is Listening”? Throughout Scripture, we see men and women who heard the voice of God, responded with faith, and were forever changed. But listening to God is not passive. It is an active pursuit that requires humility, persistence, and surrender.

When Samuel heard the voice of the Lord as a young boy, his reply was simple but profound: “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10 NASB). His heart was positioned to hear and obey. Isaiah, standing before the throne of God, declared boldly, “Here am I. Send me!”(Isaiah 6:8 NASB). These responses were not only acts of faith but acts of surrender—offering themselves wholly to God’s purposes.

The same God who spoke to Samuel and Isaiah speaks today. The question is not whether God speaks, but whether we are willing to quiet our hearts, press into His presence, and listen.

The Call to Persevere in Listening

There are times when hearing God requires persistence. We see this in Daniel, who prayed and fasted for three weeks before an angel appeared to him with the answer he sought. The angel explained: “From the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard… but the prince of the kingdom of Persia was standing in my way for twenty-one days” (Daniel 10:12-13 NASB).

Daniel’s story reminds us that spiritual resistance is real. When you ask God for guidance, the answer may not come immediately. But do not lose heart! Keep seeking, keep asking, and keep knocking (Matthew 7:7 NASB). Your persistence demonstrates faith and trust in God’s perfect timing. God hears you the moment you pray, and His answer will come at the appointed time.

Hearing and Responding to God’s Voice

Hearing the voice of God today may not always look like a burning bush or an audible call from heaven, but He is still speaking to His people in personal, profound, and powerful ways. God communicates through His Word, through the Holy Spirit, and through circumstances, but hearing Him requires intentionality on our part.

1. Through His Word

The primary way God speaks is through the Bible. As we read and meditate on Scripture, the Holy Spirit brings passages to life, applying them to our specific situations. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that “the Word of God is living and active” (NASB). To hear Him clearly, prioritize time in His Word daily. Ask Him to reveal Himself through the pages of Scripture, and listen with a heart ready to obey.

2. Through the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit lives within believers, guiding, convicting, and encouraging us. When you pray, quiet your heart to sense His direction. It may come as a gentle nudge, a persistent thought, or peace about a decision. Jesus said, “The Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and remind you of all that I said to you” (John 14:26 NASB). Be sensitive to His prompting, and when He speaks, act in faith.

3. Through Prayer and Stillness

In a world full of noise and distractions, it’s easy to miss God’s voice. But when you intentionally set aside time for prayer and stillness, you create space for Him to speak. Elijah didn’t hear God in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in the still, small voice (1 Kings 19:12 NASB). Turn off the distractions, quiet your mind, and simply ask, “Speak, Lord.” Then, wait for Him in the stillness.

4. Through Circumstances and Others

Sometimes God speaks through the circumstances in our lives or through wise counsel from others. Pay attention to how He might be orchestrating events to guide you or opening and closing doors to direct your steps. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (NASB). Seek counsel from mature believers and remain open to how God may confirm His Word through them.

The Call to Respond in Faith

Listening to God is only the beginning. The true test comes when you hear His voice—when He calls you to step out in faith, to let go of fear, or to trust Him in uncertainty. Consider Noah, who obeyed God’s instructions to build an ark even when the world had never seen rain. Or Mary, who surrendered to God’s plan to bear the Messiah despite the cost to her reputation. Or the disciples, who left everything at Yeshua’s call to “Follow Me” (Matthew 4:19 NASB).

Each of these individuals not only heard God’s voice but responded with trust. They didn’t hesitate, delay, or make excuses. Their obedience brought them into alignment with God’s purposes and allowed them to experience His power in ways that changed history. God is calling you, too. Will you respond as they did—with faith, surrender, and obedience?

An Entreaty to the Reader

Beloved, this is your moment to press in. God is calling you to deeper intimacy, greater faith, and unwavering trust in Him. Quiet your heart, remove distractions, and ask Him to speak. Then, listen. He may whisper to your spirit, illuminate His Word, or nudge your heart through circumstances. However He chooses to speak, remain persistent in prayer. Some answers take time because of spiritual resistance, but do not let that discourage you. Keep asking, keep seeking, and keep believing.

And when He speaks, respond. Say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Say, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” Say yes to His will, even if it requires stepping out in faith, letting go of your plans, or trusting Him in the unknown. The God who created you, who knows the number of hairs on your head, and who has prepared good works for you in advance (Ephesians 2:10 NASB) is calling you to a deeper walk with Him. Will you listen? Will you respond?

A Closing Prayer

Father, we come before You with hearts open and ready to hear Your voice. Teach us to be still, to quiet the noise around us, and to press into Your presence. Strengthen our faith so that we may persist in prayer, even when the answers seem delayed. Lord, when You speak, give us the courage to respond with obedience and trust, just as Samuel, Isaiah, Mary, and others did before us. Let our hearts echo their words: “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.” Use us for Your glory, and lead us into a deeper relationship with You. In the name of Yeshua, Amen.

See Also

Revival, The Pursuit

The Welsh Revival (1904–1905): A Nation Ablaze with God’s Presence

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The Welsh Revival of 1904–1905 was one of the most extraordinary outpourings of God’s Spirit in modern history. Sparked by the prayers of a small group and the faithful ministry of a young coal miner named Evan Roberts, this revival brought profound spiritual renewal to Wales and beyond. Over 100,000 people came to faith in Christ in just a year during the Welsh Revival 1904–1905, and the movement’s effects are still felt today.

This revival was marked not by elaborate programs or famous speakers but by the undeniable presence of God. It transformed lives, families, and communities, demonstrating the power of prayer, repentance, and God’s sovereign work.

The Birth of Revival: Small Prayers, Big Faith

The Welsh Revival began humbly, with a small group of believers in the village of New Quay, led by a woman named Florrie Evans. In a prayer meeting, Florrie stood and declared, “I love the Lord Jesus with all my heart.” Her testimony of simple, fervent love for Christ stirred others to seek God with greater intensity. This spark spread to nearby towns, where similar gatherings of earnest prayer and worship began to grow.

Meanwhile, Evan Roberts, a 26-year-old coal miner, was praying for revival in his own life. Roberts was consumed by a deep desire to see God move powerfully in his nation. He would often wake in the middle of the night, spending hours in prayer. Roberts later said, “I was led to pray for the Holy Spirit to descend. The Spirit answered and filled me.”

This aligns with the promise in Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to Me and I will answer you, and tell you [and even show you] great and mighty things, things which have been confined and hidden, which you do not know and understand” (AMP). The Welsh Revival was birthed in these hidden places of prayer, as believers cried out for God to reveal His glory.

The Fire of Revival Spreads

In October 1904, Evan Roberts began holding meetings in his home church in Loughor. His messages were simple yet Spirit-filled, emphasizing four key points:

  1. Confess all known sin.
  2. Remove anything doubtful from your life.
  3. Be completely obedient to the Holy Spirit.
  4. Publicly confess Christ as Savior.

These principles reflect 2 Chronicles 7:14: “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 them from heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land” (AMP).

The meetings quickly gained momentum as people confessed their sins, repented, and surrendered their lives to Christ. Services often lasted for hours, filled with heartfelt prayer, spontaneous singing, and testimonies of transformed lives. No one person led the meetings; instead, the Holy Spirit guided every moment.

Soon, churches across Wales were filled nightly with people seeking God. The revival spread rapidly, touching every corner of the nation. Entire villages experienced a spiritual awakening, with pubs emptying, courtrooms sitting idle, and lives being completely changed.

The Marks of Revival

The Welsh Revival was unique in many ways, marked by several distinct characteristics:

1. A Sense of God’s Presence

The overwhelming theme of the revival was the tangible presence of God. People described an awe-filled awareness of His holiness, which led to deep conviction of sin and a longing for righteousness.

2. Worship and Prayer

Worship was central to the revival, with congregations spontaneously breaking into hymns and prayers. Singing became a hallmark of the movement, often unaccompanied and Spirit-led. Songs like “Here is Love, Vast as the Ocean” became anthems of the revival.

3. Conviction and Repentance

The revival brought a powerful sense of conviction, with people confessing sins publicly and seeking forgiveness. It wasn’t uncommon for individuals to cry out in anguish over their sin before experiencing the peace of salvation.

4. Unity Across Denominations

The revival transcended denominational lines, bringing together Baptists, Methodists, Anglicans, and others in a shared hunger for God. This unity reflected Psalm 133:1: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!” (AMP).

5. Social Transformation

The revival had a profound impact on Welsh society. Crime rates dropped dramatically, taverns closed due to lack of business, and long-standing feuds were reconciled. Even miners reported that their workhorses had to relearn commands because the men stopped using profanity.

The Fruits of Revival

By 1905, over 100,000 people had come to faith in Christ. The Welsh Revival didn’t just affect Wales; its influence spread to other nations, igniting revivals in places like India, Korea, and America. Missionary efforts were revitalized, and the movement left a lasting impact on global Christianity.

Evan Roberts eventually stepped back from public ministry, believing that his role was complete. Though the revival’s intensity waned, its fruits continued as countless lives remained transformed, churches were strengthened, and the Gospel spread far and wide.

Lessons from the Welsh Revival

The Welsh Revival offers timeless principles for believers today:

1. Revival Begins with Prayer

It was the prayers of a few faithful individuals that invited God’s Spirit to move. As James 5:16 reminds us, “The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power]” (AMP).

2. Obedience and Surrender

The revival’s focus on confessing sin and obeying the Holy Spirit shows us the importance of humility and surrender in experiencing God’s presence.

3. Unity and Worship

The revival brought people together in worship, reminding us that revival thrives in a spirit of unity and a shared desire to glorify God.

4. Transformation Beyond the Church

True revival doesn’t end in the church—it impacts society. The Welsh Revival reminds us that when God moves, entire communities are transformed.

A Call for Revival Today

The Welsh Revival shows us that no place, person, or time is too small for God to move. It began with a small group of faithful believers and a young man with a burning heart for prayer. Today, the same God who moved in Wales in 1904 longs to pour out His Spirit on His people.

Prayer for Revival

Lord, we thank You for the testimony of the Welsh Revival and the countless lives transformed by Your Spirit. Stir our hearts to seek You with the same fervency and devotion. Teach us to pray persistently, surrender fully, and trust Your Spirit to lead us. Let revival fire fall on us, transforming our lives, churches, and communities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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.

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Devotion to God, Worship

The Song, the Call, and the Jar

Beloved, can you hear His song in the night? The Lord of glory, the One who formed the heavens and knows the depths of your heart, sings over you even now. His Word declares: “The Lord your God is in your midst, a Warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with joy; He will be quiet in His love, making no mention of your past sins; He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy” (Zephaniah 3:17, AMP). This is not a distant call—it is the song of a Father drawing you near, a melody of love echoing through the chambers of your soul.

Yet, He desires more than your acknowledgment. He calls you not to merely know about Him, but to truly know Him. The Lord’s heart aches for intimacy with you—a relationship where you experience His presence, where His Spirit moves through you, where you walk in step with His will. Jesus Himself said, “This is eternal life, that they may know [by experience] You, the only true [supreme and sovereign] God, and [in the same manner know] Jesus [as the] Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3, AMP). Knowing about Him will leave you empty; knowing Him will fill your soul with the fullness of life.

He calls you deeper still, into a worship that costs you something. Remember Mary of Bethany, who came to Jesus with her alabaster jar, filled with perfume of great price. Without hesitation, she broke it, pouring its fragrant oil over His feet, wiping them with her hair. The room was filled with the scent of her sacrifice, and though others questioned her act, Jesus said: “She has done a good and beautiful thing to Me” (Matthew 26:10, AMP). This was worship—extravagant, fearless, holding nothing back.

The Lord is calling you to break your jar, to pour out your life in worship that rises like a sweet aroma before Him. Will you hold back your time, your love, your devotion—or will you give it all, as Mary did? The fragrance of your surrender will fill the very courts of heaven, for this is the worship He desires: “The true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers” (John 4:23, AMP).

Even now, He calls you—can you hear Him? His song rises in the night, a love that beckons you to leave behind the noise of this world and step into the holy place where He waits for you. His Word speaks:

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29, AMP).

Beloved, this is your moment. Do not delay. The door to His presence is open, and the veil is torn. Lay aside the distractions, the fears, the sins that entangle you, and come boldly to the throne of grace:

“Let us approach [God’s throne] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16, AMP).

Let your life become the offering. Worship Him with everything you are—with your heart, your time, your love, your obedience. Let your worship rise like Mary’s, costly yet beautiful, extravagant yet pleasing to the King of kings. In His presence, you will find fullness of joy and the deep satisfaction your soul has longed for.

The Father is singing over you. The Son is calling you. The Spirit is drawing you. Will you answer? Will you break the jar of your life and pour it out at His feet? He waits for you with open arms, ready to fill you with His love, His grace, and His presence. Run to Him. Worship Him. Know Him. Amen.

Faith, The Pursuit

The Cost of Saying Yes to God

Beloved, what would it take for you to trust God completely? Not just in the easy moments, but when the stakes are high, the future is uncertain, and the cost feels unbearable. Blind, unconditional faith is not about ignorance; it is about trust—a trust so deep that before God even asks, your heart cries, “Yes, Lord!”

Abraham stands as a towering example of this kind of faith. When God commanded him to sacrifice Isaac, his promised son, Abraham obeyed without hesitation. “By faith Abraham, when he was tested [that is, as the testing of his faith was still in progress], offered up Isaac” (Hebrews 11:17 AMP). Abraham didn’t demand answers or explanations; he trusted that God’s promises are unshakable and that His ways are always perfect. Can you say the same? Would you lay down what is most precious to you, knowing God’s plan is greater? Abraham’s faith came from seeking God’s presence continually.

The prophet Isaiah’s response to God’s call echoes the same surrender. When God asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Isaiah didn’t hesitate. He declared, “Here I am. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8 AMP). He didn’t ask about the mission or the dangers involved. He simply trusted that to obey God was the highest honor.

Mary and Joseph, too, modeled this unwavering obedience. Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38 AMP), even though her “yes” invited public shame and possible death. Joseph obeyed the angel’s command to take Mary as his wife and protect the unborn Savior, despite the whispers of scandal and the uncertainty of the road ahead. Their faith was not blind to the cost; it was fixed on the God who is faithful. Their actions showed that seeking God’s presence was paramount in their lives.

Now, beloved, I ask you: where is your faith? Are you holding back parts of your life, waiting for assurances or guarantees before you obey? Or is your heart fully surrendered, saying, “Yes, Lord,” before you even know the question? Blind unconditional faith is not a leap into the dark; it is a leap into the arms of a God who has never failed. Your leap begins with seeking God’s presence daily.

The world needs men and women like Abraham, Isaiah, Mary, and Joseph—people who trust God no matter the cost. Rise up and say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Let your life be a testimony of faith that inspires others to lay down their fears and follow Him with reckless abandon. By seeking God’s presence, you inspire others to deepen their faith.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts longing to trust You more. Teach us to say “yes” before You even ask, to follow You with bold, unconditional faith. Strip away our fears and hesitation, and fill us with the courage to obey You no matter the cost. May our lives echo the words of Isaiah: “Here I am, send me.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now is the time to surrender, beloved. God is calling—will you answer?

See Also

Advent

Favored and Chosen by God

Beloved, you are Favored and Chosen by God.

The message of God’s grace shines brightly in the words spoken to Mary by the angel Gabriel: “Hail, O favored one [endued with grace]! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28 AMP). This greeting reveals not only Mary’s unique role in God’s redemptive plan but also the vast and immeasurable favor of God that reaches down to all who respond to His call. Favored and Chosen by God, let your heart not only hear these words but receive them deeply, for they echo God’s invitation to you today.

Mary’s story shows us the profound truth that God’s favor is not for the mighty, the wealthy, or the perfect—it is for the humble, the willing, and the faithful. Mary, an unassuming young woman from an obscure town, was chosen not for her greatness but because her heart was yielded to God. As one commentator notes, “Grace finds us, not because we are worthy, but because He is good.” The favor of God transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, the lowly into the beloved.

“Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found grace [free, spontaneous, absolute favor and loving-kindness] with God” (Luke 1:30 AMP). These words echo through the centuries to you. Favored and Chosen by God, the same grace that called Mary to bear the Savior now calls you to receive Him. This grace is a gift, freely given by God, unearned and unmeasured. As the Apostle John declared, “For of His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace” (John 1:16 AMP).

Mary was troubled and confused at the angel’s greeting, much like we may feel when God calls us to step into His purposes. But her story reminds us that God’s call is never about our ability—it is about His sufficiency. He equips those He calls, and His presence is the guarantee of His promise. As another commentator observes, “The assurance, ‘The Lord is with you,’ is the foundation of courage, the source of peace, and the promise of power.”

Beloved, do not let fear or doubt hold you back. The favor of God rests on you, not because of who you are, but because of who He is. The same God who chose Mary now chooses you. He calls you to bear His life within you, to reflect His light in a dark world, and to walk in the fullness of His grace. Will you say yes to Him? Remember, you are Favored and Chosen by God.

Let the words of Mary’s surrender become the cry of your heart: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38 AMP). This is the response of faith, the surrender of a heart that trusts fully in the goodness of God.

Reflect deeply on this truth: God’s grace does not find you where you think you ought to be but where you truly are. Just as He stepped into Mary’s humble life, He steps into yours. Matthew Henry’s commentary reminds us, “Those that God designs for the greatest honors are commonly the most humble and least ambitious.” It is not your perfection He seeks, but your willingness to trust Him.

Let me urge you, dear one, to answer His call today. The Lord is with you, and His favor rests upon you. Will you receive this grace and allow Him to transform your life? Remember, you are Favored and Chosen by God.

Pray this with me:

Heavenly Father, Your grace is overwhelming and unearned, yet You offer it freely. I come to You with a heart that is willing but weak. Strengthen me by Your Spirit, and let Your favor rest upon me. I surrender to Your call and ask that You would use my life for Your glory. Lord, may it be done to me according to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now go, beloved, as one favored by God. Walk in His grace, trust in His promises, and surrender to His call. For His love has chosen you, and His Spirit will lead you into the fullness of His plan. Let your heart echo the Apostle John’s words: “We love, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19 AMP). Amen.

See Also

The Pursuit

Pursuit and Restoration

Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Who Provides

O Lord, my God, You are my Provider.
In the wilderness of my soul, You give what I need.
Your mercy flows like streams in the desert;
Your love satisfies my every longing.
You call me to trust like a child, unburdened and free,
For You delight in those who come with simple faith.
Teach me to depend on You fully,
And to seek not the treasures of this world, but the riches of Your heart.

Jehovah Rapha – The Lord Who Heals

Jehovah Rapha, You are the Healer of my wounds.
Restore the broken places of my spirit, O God.
Where pride has scarred, Your grace humbles;
Where doubt lingers, Your peace restores.
You hide Yourself in deep darkness, drawing me near,
Teaching me to walk by faith, not by sight.
Heal me, Lord, that I may see You clearly,
And declare Your goodness in the land of the living.

Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness

O Lord, my Righteousness, let Your justice reign in my heart.
Search me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness.
Rain down Your righteousness like a flood,
And wash away all that is not of You.
You hide from the proud but reveal Yourself to the humble;
Those with childlike hearts find refuge in Your truth.
Teach me to walk upright before You,
To love what is good and hate what is evil.

Jehovah Shalom – The Lord Is Peace

Jehovah Shalom, You are the calm in the storm.
When the winds of life rage around me, You are my peace.
In the stillness of Your presence, my soul finds rest.
Let Your peace, which surpasses understanding, guard my heart.
O Lord, You reveal Yourself to the trusting,
But to the self-reliant, You remain hidden in mystery.
I will lay aside my striving and rest in Your embrace,
For Your peace fills every longing of my heart.

Pursue the Lord with all your heart

Jehovah Nissi – The Lord Is My Banner

Jehovah Nissi, You are my victory.
When the battles rage, You raise Your banner over me.
In You, I triumph over my enemies;
In Your strength, I stand unshaken.
Lift my eyes to see Your banner of love,
And remind me that the battle belongs to You.
As a child trusts in their father’s strong hand,
So I will trust in You, my Warrior and King.

Jehovah Rohi – The Lord Is My Shepherd

Jehovah Rohi, You lead me in paths of righteousness.
You restore my soul and guide me with Your staff.
Even in the valley of the shadow, I will fear no evil,
For You are with me, and Your rod comforts me.
You call me to come like a child, unafraid and dependent,
To trust Your voice and follow wherever You lead.
You are my Shepherd, Yeshua, and in You, I lack nothing.

Jehovah Elohim – The Lord, My God

Jehovah Elohim, You are my Creator and King.
Before the foundations of the earth, You knew me.
You knit me together in my mother’s womb,
And Your plans for me are good and perfect.
You hide Yourself from the wise in their own eyes,
But You show Your face to those with childlike faith.
O Lord, my God, I seek Your face alone.
You are my beginning and my end, my all in all.
Let my life be a reflection of Your glory,
And may I dwell in Your presence forever.

Selah.

Beloved, hear the call of the Lord today. He is not far from you; He waits with open arms, longing for you to come to Him. Have you grown weary in your pursuit? Have the distractions of this world stolen your gaze from His face? Return to the Lord with all your heart!

He delights in the faith of a child—a heart that trusts without reserve, a spirit that runs to Him without hesitation. Stop striving in your own strength, stop seeking answers in what cannot satisfy. The Lord calls you to lay down your pride, your self-sufficiency, and come to Him with humility, with desperation, and with an unrelenting desire for more of Him.

The time is now to pursue Him with all your might. Chase after Him as though your very life depends on it—because it does. “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near” (Isaiah 55:6, AMP). Do not delay! He is the God who provides, who heals, who restores, and who reveals Himself to those who hunger and thirst for Him.

Turn from the fleeting things of this world and set your heart on eternal treasures. Let your cry be, “More of You, Lord, less of me!” Seek His face and His righteousness with every ounce of your being. For when you seek Him, you will find Him. When you draw near to Him, He will draw near to you (James 4:8, AMP).

Do not settle for hollow religion or empty ritual. Run into the arms of the living God, the One who loves you with an everlasting love. He is waiting to restore what was lost, to rain down His righteousness upon your life, and to fill you with His peace and joy. Pursue Him, for He alone is worthy.

Lift your heart, lift your voice, and chase after the Lord your God with all that you are. He will meet you in the pursuit. He will be your strength, your hope, your everything. O, return to Him, and find life—abundant, eternal, and full!

See Also

Authentic Worship

the Empty House

There once stood a house at the edge of a vast valley, its walls strong but empty, its windows clear yet dimmed by years of neglect. This house had been built by a master craftsman, designed with care, its every detail purposed for beauty and fullness. Yet, for all its design, it stood hollow—void of warmth, echoing with silence. They were yet to begin experiencing God’s glory.

One day, a messenger arrived, bearing an invitation. “The Master desires to fill this house with His glory,” the messenger proclaimed. “But first, the house must be prepared.”

The inhabitants of the house stirred, wondering what this preparation might require. The messenger spoke again: “Empty it of clutter. Cast out all that does not belong. Open every door, every window, and every hidden place, for the Master’s presence will not abide in a divided dwelling.”

The inhabitants hesitated. They had grown accustomed to their clutter—old relics of pride, worn remnants of selfish ambition, and shadows of fear that lingered in the corners. Yet the promise of experiencing God’s glory stirred something deep within them. Slowly, room by room, they began to clear the house. They swept the floors of distraction, tore down idols of self, and cast out burdens that had long weighed them down.

As the house was emptied, light began to seep through its walls. The windows, once dimmed, began to shine with clarity. A hunger grew within the hearts of the inhabitants—a longing for the Master to fill what they had emptied.

When the work was done, the house stood still, its rooms prepared, its doors flung wide. The inhabitants gathered in the great hall, lifting their voices in unity, proclaiming the goodness of the Master. Their song rose like incense, filling the air with the sound of worship.

And then, it happened.

A great wind swept through the valley, rushing into the house with a force both terrifying and beautiful. It was not destructive but consuming, filling every crevice, every corner, every place where emptiness once dwelled. The house began experiencing God’s glory. A brilliant light followed the wind, so dazzling that the inhabitants could only fall to their knees in awe.

The house was no longer empty. It pulsed with the radiant glory of the Master, a glory so overwhelming that all other tasks ceased. The inhabitants could only bow in worship, their hearts aflame with reverence and love.

The messenger’s voice echoed once more: “This is the glory of the Master. It fills what is empty, transforms what is broken, and sanctifies what is prepared. From this day forward, this house shall be a dwelling place for His presence.”

The Invitation for Us

We, too, are this house. We are invited to prepare the temple of our hearts for the glory of the Lord. True worship begins when we humble ourselves, clearing away the clutter of pride, fear, and distraction, and opening every hidden corner to His light. When we press into His presence with awe and hunger, we create space for His brilliance to fill us and for experiencing God’s glory.

And when His glory fills our lives, we are transformed. The work of our hands and the striving of our hearts pale in comparison to the overwhelming beauty of His presence.

So let us come in unity, worshiping with all that we are. Let us proclaim His goodness and invite His glory to dwell within us. For when God’s glory fills the house, no other task matters. Nothing compares to the joy of experiencing God’s glory and being consumed by His presence.

Prayer

Lord, we prepare the temple of our hearts for You. Empty us of all that hinders Your presence and fill us with Your glory. Transform us, sanctify us, and let our lives reflect the brilliance of Your light. May we bow in awe before You, for we long for experiencing Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

See Also