Tag Archives: prayer

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

Faith, Spiritual

Rise Up: Restore What Is Broken

Beloved, the time has come. God is calling His people—His chosen ones—to rise and rebuild what has been lost. The breaches in our families, our communities, and even in the foundation of our faith cry out for restoration. Yet the Lord has declared this promise over you: “Those from among you will rebuild the ancient ruins; you will raise up the age-old foundations; and you will be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets in which to dwell” (Isaiah 58:12 NASB). This is no small task, yet it is a holy one. The Father’s hand is upon you for such a time as this.

Look around and see the destruction: homes broken by division, lives torn by sin, and hearts far from God. Yet even now, the Lord is preparing a remnant who will rise and restore His purposes on the earth. The call is urgent. Ezekiel recorded God’s lament: “I searched for a man among them who would build up a wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land…but I found no one” (Ezekiel 22:30 NASB). Will you be the one who steps forward? Will you be the repairer He seeks? Will you be the repairer of the breach?

The Call to Rebuild

This work is not for the faint of heart. It is a divine calling that requires both faith and action. As Nehemiah rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls amid opposition, so you must rebuild the spiritual walls in your own life and community. Yet take courage, for the Lord Himself will strengthen you. He promises: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of armies” (Zechariah 4:6 NASB).

What are these ancient ruins you must rebuild? They are the foundations of righteousness, justice, and truth—pillars that have been eroded by sin and complacency. The Lord desires to restore these through you. He has anointed you for this very purpose, as Isaiah proclaims: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the humble; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim release to captives” (Isaiah 61:1 NASB). Becoming the repairer of the breach entails such restoration.

Standing in the Gap

The breach in the wall represents the place where the enemy has entered—where brokenness has taken hold. You are called to stand in that gap through prayer, intercession, and bold action. Do not underestimate the power of a surrendered heart. The Lord has promised: “The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much” (James 5:16 NASB). In the secret place of prayer, you will receive the wisdom and strength needed to step into this work.

But prayer alone is not enough. Faith must be followed by action. Seek the Lord for where He is calling you to restore. Perhaps it is within your own family—mending broken relationships and leading loved ones back to Christ. Perhaps it is in your church, your workplace, or your community. Wherever the breach exists, you are called to be the repairer of the breach and rebuild with God’s truth and love.

How to Begin the Work

  1. Seek His Presence: Before you can restore others, you must first be restored by Him. Press into God daily through prayer and His Word. Allow Him to fill you with His Spirit and guide your steps.
  2. Intercede for Others: Stand in the gap for your family, church, and nation. Cry out to the Lord for His mercy and healing.
  3. Take Bold Steps: Be willing to act on what He shows you. Whether it is sharing the gospel, meeting a need, or confronting sin, trust that He will equip you.
  4. Trust His Faithfulness: Do not fear opposition, for the Lord has promised: “Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 NASB).

A Call to Action

The urgency of this call cannot be overstated. God is calling His people to awaken, to rise, and to act. Souls hang in the balance. This is your time to be the hands and feet of Christ, to proclaim His truth, and to shine His light in the darkness. Let your heart echo the prayer of Isaiah: “Here I am, send me!” (Isaiah 6:8 NASB).

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we hear Your call to rebuild what has been broken. Forgive us for where we have been complacent. Raise us up as repairers of the breach and restorers of righteousness. Fill us with Your Spirit so that we may stand boldly in the gap and proclaim Your truth. Strengthen our hands for the work ahead, and let Your glory be revealed through our obedience. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Beloved, do not delay. The Lord is calling you today to rise up and restore what is broken. Step into this holy work and watch as His glory transforms lives through your obedience. This is your moment. Will you answer the call to be the repairer of the breach?

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

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

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, Faith

The Light in the Window

In a small village nestled in the shadow of a snow-capped mountain, there stood a humble home with a single candle glowing in its window. The family who lived there, the Carters, had a tradition passed down through generations: every Christmas Eve, they would place a candle in the window to guide weary travelers and remind their neighbors of the light of Christ.

As the years passed, the meaning of the candle began to fade for many in the village. People grew busy with their own plans and problems. But the Carters kept their light shining, believing that even a small flame could pierce the deepest darkness.

One particular Christmas Eve, the snow fell heavy and unrelenting, blanketing the village in icy silence. Inside their home, the Carters prepared for their simple celebration. The parents, John and Miriam, prepared a modest meal, while their children, Grace and Peter, set the table. Though they had little, their hearts were full, for they knew that the greatest gift of Christmas was the love God had shown through His Son.

Candle in the Window
A wood-framed window, a frosty patterns. A candle burns outside the window

As the family gathered, a knock came at the door. Peter opened it to find a frail old man shivering in the cold. He was a stranger to the village, his face lined with years of hardship. Without hesitation, John invited him in, wrapping the man in a warm blanket and offering him a seat by the fire. Miriam set an extra place at the table, and Grace poured him a steaming cup of tea.

The man, who introduced himself as Henry, said little at first, overwhelmed by the warmth of their welcome. But as he ate and listened to their stories, his eyes began to brighten. He shared that he had been traveling for days, searching for a place to spend Christmas, when he saw the candle in their window. “It was like a beacon in the storm,” he said softly. “I thought no one cared anymore. But your light called me home.”

After dinner, they gathered by the fire to read the Christmas story. When John read, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16, AMP), Henry’s eyes filled with tears. He explained that he had once known God but had wandered far from Him. That night, as the family prayed, Henry recommitted his heart to the Lord.

The next morning, the Carters found Henry had left early, leaving behind only a note. It read:

“You gave me the greatest gift—family, love, and the reminder of God’s light. I will carry it with me always.”

As the years went by, the Carters continued to light their candle, and more weary travelers found their way to their table. The simple act of sharing Christmas—through warmth, love, and the light of Christ—became a living testament in their village. Others began lighting candles in their windows, and soon, the entire village glowed with light every Christmas Eve.

And so the lesson endures: when we share Christmas with others, especially those in need, we reflect the light of God’s love, a flame that can never be extinguished.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, the light of the world. Help us to share Your love and the joy of Christmas with others, so that Your light shines brightly in us. May we always open our hearts and homes to those in need, reflecting Your grace and truth. 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

The Pursuit

The Pursuit of God

Beloved, you were created to know God intimately, to walk with Him in deep communion. This is the highest and holiest calling of your life: the pursuit of God. The Scriptures speak of this pursuit with urgency and promise. “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13 AMP). This is no idle search. It is an all-consuming journey that calls for the surrender of our entire being.

God’s Word reminds us of His nearness: “Draw near to God [with a contrite heart] and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 AMP). He is not distant, but He waits for us to turn our hearts fully to Him, to press past the distractions and noise of the world into His holy presence. The pursuit of God is not for the casual or complacent; it is for those whose hearts burn with a longing to know Him as He truly is.

The Simplicity of Seeking Him

Scripture shows us that God calls us to approach Him with childlike faith. Jesus said, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you repent [that is, change your inner self—your old way of thinking], and become like children [trusting, humble, and forgiving], you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3 AMP). To pursue God, we must let go of the pride and self-reliance that complicate our approach to Him.

Our pursuit must be stripped down to its essence: a longing to be with God. This simplicity is echoed in David’s cry: “One thing I have asked of the Lord, and that I will seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty [the delightful loveliness and majestic grandeur] of the Lord and to meditate in His temple” (Psalm 27:4 AMP). David’s singular focus reminds us that to pursue God is to desire Him above all else.

Gazing on His Glory

The pursuit of God is not merely about asking for His blessings or guidance; it is about worshiping Him for who He is. Moses cried out, “Please, show me Your glory!” (Exodus 33:18 AMP). This longing to behold God is the heartbeat of every true seeker. In His presence, words often fall away, and we are left in silent awe of His majesty.

To worship God is to recognize that He alone satisfies the deepest hunger of the soul. “As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God. My soul [my life, my inner self] thirsts for God, for the living God” (Psalm 42:1-2 AMP). This thirst is quenched not by fleeting experiences, but by dwelling in His presence continually.

Dying to Self, Living for Him

The pursuit of God requires a life fully surrendered. Jesus declared, “Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23 AMP). To pursue God, we must let go of our own ambitions, desires, and plans. We must echo the heart of John the Baptist: “He must increase [in prominence], but I must decrease” (John 3:30 AMP).

When we abandon self-reliance and pride, we open the door to deeper intimacy with God. This surrender is not loss but gain. “The kingdom of heaven is like a very precious treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid again; then in his joy he goes and sells all he has and buys that field [securing the treasure for himself]” (Matthew 13:44 AMP). God Himself is the treasure worth everything.

The Invitation

Dear reader, this is your invitation to pursue God with all your heart. Do not settle for knowing about Him when you can know Him intimately. Do not be satisfied with shallow faith when you are called to deep waters. God’s presence is the place where your soul finds its true home. He is inviting you to come closer, to seek Him with purity and passion.

The pursuit of God is not a fleeting effort but a lifelong journey. It is not marked by striving but by surrender. Come before Him, lay aside the weights of this world, and behold the One who satisfies every longing of your heart.

Prayer

Lord, You are our greatest treasure and the deepest desire of our hearts. Forgive us for the times we have pursued lesser things. Teach us to seek You with childlike faith and to come before You with simplicity and surrender. Draw us deeper into Your presence, and let our hearts burn with longing to know You more. May we lay down our lives in pursuit of You, for You alone are worthy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

See Also