Tag Archives: Trust in God

Faith, Trust

Hope In God

Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. The transfer of power, marked by Donald Trump’s return to office, has become more than a political transition—it is a reflection of the deep divisions in our land. Some rejoice, placing their hope in a man to restore what they perceive as lost, while others despair, convinced their ideals have been trampled. But as Christians, we must rise above the turbulence and remember this eternal truth: our hope must rest in God alone, not in man.

Scripture warns us of the danger of misplaced trust. Psalm 146:3-5 declares, “Do not trust in princes, in mortal man, in whom there is no salvation. His spirit departs, he returns to the earth; in that very day his plans perish. Blessed is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God” (AMP). No leader, no matter how charismatic or capable, can bear the weight of being our savior. Only God is sovereign, and only He can guide our nation back to righteousness.

Fasting and Prayer: A Call to Worship God Alone

In this season, we see movements of prayer and fasting emerging across the nation. Many are seeking God’s favor for this administration, praying fervently for healing and restoration. While this is commendable, we must be vigilant not to let our prayers shift from seeking God’s will to idolizing a man. When we fast, we should do so with humble hearts, crying out for God’s glory to be revealed, not for our political desires to be met. Our hope is indeed in God alone.

Jesus Himself warned against misplaced worship when He was tempted by Satan. “Then Jesus said to him, ‘Go away, Satan! For it is written and forever remains written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only”’” (Matthew 4:10, AMP). Our fasting and prayers must not center on human leaders but on exalting God and seeking His kingdom first.

Beware of Deception and the Antichrist Spirit

We are also cautioned by Jesus and the apostles about the spirit of the antichrist. In Matthew 24:24, Jesus warns, “For false Christs and false prophets will appear, and they will provide great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect” (AMP). The antichrist is not merely a future figure; it is any system, spirit, or person who seeks to replace Christ’s authority in our hearts. To avoid being deceived, we must put our hope in God alone.

The danger lies in the subtlety of deception. When we fix our eyes on human solutions, we may miss the workings of God. When we believe a person, rather than the Holy Spirit, will lead us into all truth, we risk falling prey to lies. Now more than ever, we must anchor ourselves in God’s Word and test every spirit to see if it aligns with Scripture (1 John 4:1).

A Call to Humility and Repentance

This is not a time to divide ourselves further by idolizing leaders or vilifying those who disagree with us. It is a time for deep humility and repentance. We must acknowledge that no political leader, conservative or liberal, can heal the brokenness in our nation. Only God can turn hearts of stone into hearts of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26).

Let us remember 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If My people, who are called by My Name, humble themselves, and pray and seek (crave, require as a necessity) 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 healing of our land begins not with a president but with the people of God crying out in repentance and seeking His face. Our ultimate hope should be in God alone, as He alone can heal our hearts and our land.

Look to Jesus, Not Man

In these turbulent days, lift your eyes to Jesus. The government may change, but Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8, AMP). He alone is our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). We must not allow the world’s anxieties or ambitions to overshadow the truth of God’s sovereignty.

Christians, let us not fall into the trap of placing our hope in a political savior. Instead, may our hearts cry out, “More of You, Lord, and less of us!” May we pursue intimacy with God, seeking His will above all else, and trusting that He will guide us through these uncertain times. Remember, our hope should be anchored in God alone.

A Prayer for Our Nation

Heavenly Father,

We come before You today in humility and repentance, acknowledging that You alone are our hope and salvation. Forgive us for placing our trust in man instead of You. Turn our hearts back to You, Lord, and lead us in Your ways. Give wisdom to our leaders and unite Your people under the banner of Your truth. Teach us to worship You alone and to seek Your kingdom first. Protect us from deception and help us stand firm in Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, 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

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

Current Events

It’s all about the Church

The Church is not secondary to the world or the universe; instead, the world and the universe are secondary to the Church. This truth stands as a profound reality in God’s divine order. The Church is the heartbeat of God’s eternal plan, chosen as the vessel through which He reveals His glory, authority, and redemptive power.

Consider this: the world and the universe were created for God’s purpose, culminating in the Church, the Bride of Christ. Jesus declared, “I will build My church; and the gates of Hades (death) will not overpower it [by preventing the resurrection of the Christ]” (Matthew 16:18 AMP). The Church is not an afterthought; it is the reason creation exists.

The apostle Paul writes, “He [Christ] is also the head of [His] body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will occupy the first place [He will stand supreme and preeminent] in everything” (Colossians 1:18 AMP). Notice the divine order: Christ is preeminent, and His body, the Church, holds a position above all else.

The Church: God’s Eternal Priority

In Ephesians, Paul reveals a staggering truth: “[God] put all things [in every realm] in subjection under Christ’s feet, and appointed Him as head over all things in the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills and completes all things in all [believers]” (Ephesians 1:22-23 AMP). The Church is the fullness of Christ Himself. Creation exists to serve His purposes through the Church. The universe itself bows to God’s eternal agenda for His people.

Paul further explains the power of God at work in Christ: “Which He produced in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, whether angelic or human, and [far above] every name that is named [above every title that can be conferred], not only in this age and world but also in the one to come. And He put all things [in every realm] in subjection under Christ’s feet, and appointed Him as head over all things in the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills and completes all things in all [believers]” (Ephesians 1:20-23 AMP).

The stars, the galaxies, and all of creation were spoken into existence to glorify God and to serve His ultimate plan—the preparation of the Bride. As the apostle John witnessed in Revelation: “Let us rejoice and shout for joy! Let us give Him glory and honor, for the marriage of the Lamb has come [at last], and His bride (the redeemed) has prepared herself” (Revelation 19:7 AMP). The Church is central to history’s final and glorious conclusion.

The World Serves the Church

The Church is not subject to the powers of this world. On the contrary, the world and its systems serve the unfolding purpose of God in the Church. Paul reminds us, “All things are for your sake, so that as God’s remarkable undeserved grace spreads to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of our great God” (2 Corinthians 4:15 AMP).

Everything—political events, scientific discoveries, societal changes, and even the universe’s movement—fulfills God’s purposes for His Church. In truth, what the world sees as primary is secondary in God’s eternal view.

The Church is the dwelling place of God Himself. Paul proclaims, “Do you not know and understand that you [the church] are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells [permanently] in you [collectively and individually]?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 AMP). The glory of God resides not in the heavens but in His people—the Church.

God is in Control of Current Events

Today’s world is marked by wars, unrest, earthquakes, famine, and uncertainty. Leaders rise and fall, unknown drones appear in our skies, and global chaos intensifies. Yet we must remember this unshakable truth: God is in control. None of these events catch Him by surprise. As the psalmist declares, “The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all [the universe]” (Psalm 103:19 AMP).

Jesus Himself spoke of such times when He said: “You will continually hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end of the age” (Matthew 24:6 AMP). God’s Word assures us that these events are under His command, and His purposes for the Church remain unshaken.

When the earth trembles, famine strikes, nations rage, and the unknown stirs fear, God’s people can stand firm with eyes of faith. We believe not in the shifting circumstances of the world but in the eternal promises of our unchanging God. He is working, drawing people to Himself, preparing His Bride, and fulfilling His purposes through the Church.

Isaiah reminds us: “You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]” (Isaiah 26:3 AMP). Let us keep our minds and hearts anchored in God’s control, knowing He alone holds the universe together.

A Call to See with Eyes of Faith

We must not live as though the Church is merely a small part of the world’s story. It is the other way around. The Church is the story. God’s eternal plan begins and ends with the Church—the redeemed, the called-out ones, the Bride of Christ. The world may seem vast, chaotic, or uncontrollable, but we must remember that God is sovereign, and His Church is central.

To see this truth requires eyes of faith. We must look beyond what is seen and trust God’s divine purpose. Paul encourages us, “For we walk by faith, not by sight [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]” (2 Corinthians 5:7 AMP). With eyes of faith, we see the Church as God sees it—glorious, victorious, and central to His eternal plan.

Let Us Pray

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for Your Church, the centerpiece of Your divine plan. Open our eyes of faith to see Your purposes more clearly, to live in alignment with Your eternal truth, and to embrace our role as Your people. Help us to trust in Your sovereign rule and to walk in the authority You have given us as the body of Christ. May Your glory be revealed through us as we prepare ourselves, Your Bride, for the return of our Lord Jesus.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Advent, Humility

Lifted by God

Beloved, pause and reflect on the greatness of God. He sees you in your lowliest state, just as He saw Mary, and He has not turned away from you. He knows your heart, your struggles, and your hidden fears. Yet, in His infinite mercy, He lifts the humble, calls them by name, and uses them for His glory. Do you not see? He delights in exalting the lowly so that His power might be made perfect in weakness.

Mary’s words in Luke 1:48-49 (AMP) are not only her testimony but a song for you as well:

“For He has looked upon the low station and humiliation of His handmaiden. For behold, from now on all generations [of all ages] will call me blessed and declare me happy and to be envied! For He Who is almighty has done great things for me—and holy is His name [to be venerated in His purity, majesty and glory]!”

Mary’s humility was not a hindrance but a vessel for God’s glory. Her declaration reveals timeless truths about the heart of God. First, He sees and values the overlooked:

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18, AMP).

When you feel unseen, when the weight of life presses you down, know this—God sees you. He sees beyond your circumstances, beyond your shortcomings, and into your heart. And just as He chose Mary for a holy purpose, He has chosen you to glorify His name in your own unique way.

Second, God exalts the humble and fills their lives with purpose. Mary reminds us of this truth: “He has brought down rulers from their thrones and exalted those who were humble” (Luke 1:52, AMP). God delights in using the lowly for His highest purposes, because their lives point to Him, not to themselves. Do not despise your humble beginnings or the moments of weakness. It is in these that God’s strength is made perfect.

Finally, God is holy, and His greatness is unmatched. Mary declares, “Holy is His name [to be venerated in His purity, majesty, and glory]” (Luke 1:49, AMP). The same God who does great things for Mary is doing great things in your life. Have you paused to see His hand in the details of your days? Like Mary, let your heart overflow with gratitude and praise, for His works are good, and His promises endure.

Beloved, this is your calling: to magnify the Lord with your life. To trust Him in your lowliest moments, knowing that He is faithful to lift you for His glory. The same God who declared over Mary that generations would call her blessed declares over you His love and purpose. Will you surrender to His plans? Will you allow Him to do great things through you?

Take heart in these words from James 4:10:

“Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose]” (AMP).

Let the truth of God’s Word settle deep in your heart. He sees you, He knows you, and He has not forgotten you. Magnify Him with your life and declare, like Mary, “Holy is His name!”

Prayer

Lord God Almighty, You see us in our humility, and yet You call us beloved. Holy is Your name, O Lord, and greatly to be praised! Teach us to magnify You with our words and lives. Strengthen our hearts to trust You, even when we feel small and unseen, for You have done great things for us. Draw us closer to Your holiness and fill our hearts with gratitude and awe. Let every generation declare Your faithfulness and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Surrender, Trust

What Are You Holding On To?

Beloved, hear the call of the Lord to surrender all that weighs you down, for breakthrough begins when you lay down what hinders. Have you forgotten that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion? (Philippians 1:6 AMP). He has called you to cast off every burden and run with endurance the race set before you (Hebrews 12:1). But to do this, you must search your heart. 

What are you holding on to that is keeping you from Him?

Let me speak plainly to you, dear one, for we are all tempted to cling to things that do not satisfy. These are the idols that rise up, silently taking the place of God in your heart. You may not see them at first, but they steal your devotion and rob you of the fullness of His peace. Examine yourself and ask:

Use the below list along with one of our cornerstone Blogs: Hearing the Voice of God.

Have You Made an Idol of Comfort?

Do you seek ease above obedience? The Lord has not called you to a life of ease but to walk by faith, even when it requires sacrifice. Do not cling to what is safe when God calls you to step into the unknown.

Do You Trust in Your Own Strength?

Are you trying to control your life instead of trusting the One who holds all things in His hands? Beloved, do not lean on your understanding. Lay down your self-reliance and let God be your guide.

Are You Seeking the Approval of Man?

Have you sought the praises of others more than God’s approval? Remember, man’s fear is a snare, but those who trust in the Lord are safe (Proverbs 29:25). Lay down the need to please others and live only for His glory.

Do You Cling to Possessions?

Are you storing up treasures on earth while neglecting the treasures of heaven? Lay down the grip of materialism and find your security in Him who owns everything. It is written: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?” (Mark 8:36 AMP).

Are You Distracted by Busyness?

Are you so consumed with your schedule that you have neglected the secret place? He waits for you, longing to speak to your heart. Lay down your striving and find rest in Him.

Do You Hold on to Bitterness?

Are you harboring unforgiveness, clinging to the wounds of the past? Lay them at the feet of Jesus, for He has forgiven you much. Do not let resentment build a wall between you and the grace of God.

Are You Bound by Fear?

Does fear of the future or the unknown keep you from trusting Him fully? Lay down your anxiety and remember His promise: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God” (Isaiah 41:10 AMP).

Do You Idolize Relationships?

Have you placed someone above the Lord in your heart? Even the most precious relationships must never take His rightful place. Surrender them to Him and trust that He will bless them in His time.

Do You Long for the Past?

Are you clinging to the pain of yesterday or the comfort of a bygone season? Beloved, do not look back, for the Lord is doing a new thing. Forget what lies behind and press on toward what lies ahead (Philippians 3:13–14).

The Call to Lay It Down

Jesus invites you to come, to lay down your burdens, and to find rest for your soul (Matthew 11:28–30 AMP). The idols you cling to are chains, but He has come to set you free. Take them to the cross—your fear, pride, comfort, and possessions—and leave them there. Only when you are empty of these things can you be filled with His presence. Let Him be the treasure of your heart.

Beloved, this is His promise: “He who comes to Me will never be hungry, and he who believes in and cleaves to and trusts in Me will never thirst” (John 6:35 AMP). Trust Him to be enough. Trust Him to complete the work He has begun in you.

A Prayer of Surrender

Lord, I come before You, weary from carrying burdens I was never meant to bear. I lay down my idols—my fears, my pride, my distractions—and I ask You to take Your rightful place in my heart. Reveal what I have clung to that is keeping me from You. Teach me to trust You fully and to walk in the freedom of Your peace. Let me decrease, Lord, so that You may increase. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Beloved, what is He calling you to lay down today? Do not delay, for the breakthrough you seek is on the other side of surrender. He is faithful to finish what He has started in you. Trust Him. Seek Him. Walk with Him.

See Also

The above was actually written yesterday. Last night and this morning after considering the list, the Holy Spirit suggested to me that the original list I had written was better than the one I scheduled to be published this morning. I have included the original below. Perhaps I tried to make it less convicting because I struggle with #3?

1. Comfort and Convenience

• Do you prioritize your routines, safety, or personal ease over stepping out in faith?

• Are you avoiding challenges or sacrifices God is calling you to make?

2. Control and Self-Reliance

• Are you trying to manage every detail of your life instead of surrendering to God’s sovereignty?

• Do you rely on your own strength to “fix” situations instead of trusting Him?

3. Approval and People-Pleasing

• Do you crave validation from others instead of being satisfied with God’s love and acceptance?

• Are your decisions guided by what others think rather than by God’s will?

4. Materialism and Possessions

• Are you clinging to financial stability, your home, or other assets for security?

• Has the pursuit of wealth or status overshadowed your devotion to God?

5. Busyness and Productivity

• Do you measure your self-worth by how much you accomplish or how busy you are?

• Are you prioritizing work, hobbies, or even ministry over spending time in God’s presence?

6. Relationships

• Have you placed your spouse, children, friends, or mentors in a higher position in your heart than God?

• Are you letting others’ opinions or needs take precedence over seeking God’s will?

7. Pride and Personal Identity

• Are you valuing your achievements, titles, or roles more than your identity as a child of God?

• Do you struggle to admit weaknesses or ask for help, fearing vulnerability?

8. Fear and Anxiety

• Are you letting fear of the unknown, failure, or loss dictate your decisions?

• Do you dwell on worries instead of surrendering them to God in prayer?

9. Tradition and Legalism

• Do you hold on to religious rituals or rules as a substitute for a real relationship with God?

• Are you more focused on “doing church” than being the Church in your daily life?

10. Unforgiveness and Resentment

• Are you holding grudges or harboring bitterness that blocks God’s grace in your life?

• Do you find it hard to let go of past offenses and walk in the freedom of forgiveness?

11. Social Media and Entertainment

• Are you spending too much time scrolling through social media or consuming content that distracts you from God’s presence?

• Are cultural trends and entertainment shaping your priorities more than God’s Word?

12. Comfort in Sin

• Are you compromising in “small” areas of sin or excusing behaviors that dishonor God?

• Do you justify attitudes or habits like gossip, envy, or indulgence?

13. The Past

• Are you dwelling on past mistakes, successes, or seasons of life, rather than moving forward with God?

• Do guilt, shame, or nostalgia keep you from embracing God’s present calling?

14. The Future

• Are you obsessing over plans, ambitions, or fears about what lies ahead?

• Do you trust in your own vision for the future instead of seeking God’s guidance?

The Forgiveness of God

Beloved, let your heart rejoice in this truth: God is faithful and just to forgive our sins when we confess them and turn from them (1 John 1:9 AMP). He does not hold your failures against you, nor does He condemn you for your weaknesses. Instead, He offers His mercy, washing you clean and removing your transgressions as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12 AMP). When you bring your sins to the cross and surrender them to Jesus, He takes them upon Himself, breaking every chain that binds you. There is no sin too great, no stain too deep, that His blood cannot cleanse. In His forgiveness, He offers not only freedom but also the power to walk in newness of life. Do not carry the weight of shame or guilt another moment—run to Him, for He is waiting to embrace you with open arms.

A Prayer of Freedom

Lord, I thank You for Your unfailing mercy and grace. I bring my sins before You, confessing them fully and asking for Your forgiveness. Wash me clean, Lord, and teach me to walk in Your ways. Help me to trust in Your love and power to make me new. Thank You for taking my burdens and giving me freedom in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Faith, Prayers

Faith Transforms Everything

Beloved, faith changes everything, but it doesn’t promise ease. Instead, it leads us into a life of trust, perseverance, and reliance on God. Jesus declared, “For with God, all things are possible” (Mark 10:27, AMP). Yet, the road of faith is rarely smooth—it is a journey that requires us to press forward even when challenges arise. Faith transforms everything, including how we face those challenges.

Think of Noah, who built an ark on dry ground for decades while the world mocked him. His faith didn’t make the task easy, but it made it possible. Every nail he hammered testified to his confidence in God’s word. “By faith [with confidence in God and His word], Noah… prepared an ark for the salvation of his family” (Hebrews 11:7, AMP). His obedience wasn’t effortless, but it revealed the power of unwavering trust.

Faith demands action. Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water, defying the laws of nature. For a moment, he experienced the miraculous, but when he focused on the wind and waves, he began to sink. Yet even in his doubt, Jesus reached out and saved him. “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31, AMP). This moment reminds us: faith doesn’t mean we won’t falter, but it does mean we know where to turn when we do.

Consider the woman with the issue of blood, who pressed through the crowd to touch Jesus’ garment. Weak, unclean, and desperate, she believed He could heal her. Her faith wasn’t passive—it was bold and determined. When she reached Him, Jesus said, “Daughter, your faith [your personal trust and confidence in Me] has restored you to health” (Luke 8:48, AMP). Her story reveals that faith often requires persistence and courage to overcome obstacles.

Faith transforms our perspective on trials. When life feels overwhelming, remember the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Facing the fiery furnace, they refused to bow to false gods, declaring, “Our God whom we serve is able to rescue us” (Daniel 3:17, AMP). Though the fire came, they were not consumed, for a fourth man—Jesus—walked with them in the flames. Their faith didn’t remove the trial, but it revealed the power and presence of God. Indeed, Faith Transforms Everything, including how we view trials.

Faith is not a shortcut but a calling to trust God in every season. It’s not about avoiding hardship but about seeing God’s hand at work through it. Even when the answers seem delayed or the journey feels impossible, faith reminds us that God is faithful. He promises, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched” (Isaiah 43:2, AMP).

Faith isn’t just about what God can do; it’s about who He is. The trials we face refine our character and draw us closer to Him. Like the Apostle Paul, we can say, “I have strength for all things in Christ who empowers me” (Philippians 4:13, AMP). Remember, Faith Transforms Everything, not just our circumstances but our connection with God.

Actionable Faith Steps for You

  1. Trust God’s timing: When waiting feels unbearable, remember that God is never late.
  2. Stay focused on Jesus: Like Peter, keep your eyes on Him, not the storm around you.
  3. Press through the crowd: Don’t let obstacles stop you from seeking God’s presence and power.
  4. Lean into His promises: Study His word to build your confidence in His faithfulness.

Prayer:

Lord, I thank You that with You, all things are possible. Strengthen my faith when I face trials, and teach me to trust You more deeply. Help me to see that even when the road is hard, You are refining me for Your glory. Let my life be a testimony of Your power, and may I always walk in step with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Beloved, faith transforms everything. It will not make the journey easy, but it will make the impossible possible. Keep pressing forward, for your reward is not just what God can do for you but the intimacy you gain with Him along the way.

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

Faithful Living

Labor for God with All Your Might

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10, AMP)

Beloved, as evening settles and the weight of the day lingers, let the Word of God stir your heart to action. This life is but a vapor, and the opportunities to serve our Lord are fleeting. The wisdom of Solomon cries out to us: Do not delay, do not withhold, but pour out your life for the glory of God today! For the moments God has given us are sacred; they are not ours to waste but His to redeem.

Do the Work Before You

The Spirit reminds us to begin with what is already in our reach: “whatever your hand finds to do.” This is not a call to dreams of far-off tasks but to faithfulness in the here and now. God’s work begins with today, not tomorrow. We honor Christ not by imagining what we might do, but by faithfully doing what is before us.

Jesus spoke plainly, “He who is faithful in a very little [thing] is also faithful in much” (Luke 16:10, AMP). Let not pride despise the small works—whether serving a child, offering kindness to a stranger, or laboring in your daily calling. These humble deeds carry the fragrance of Christ when done in obedience to Him. Matthew Henry reflects, “Let us do with all our might what lies before us, for life is short and eternity is near.” The moments of today are not to be squandered but used for His glory.

Serve with All Your Heart and Strength

Do not give God half-measures, for He is worthy of your whole being. The apostle Paul exhorts us, “Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23, AMP). Let this truth resound: God is glorified when we serve Him with zeal, passion, and excellence.

Beloved, do not fall into the trap of delay. Spurgeon warns, “No man ever served God by doing things tomorrow. The present is the only time we possess.” Now is the moment for action. Now is the moment to honor the One who gave His all for you. Bring Him your best, for He gave you His life.

Draw Strength from God Alone

Where does the strength for such wholehearted labor come from? Not from us, for we are but dust. Our might flows from the Lord of Hosts. As the psalmist declares, “The Lord is the strength of His people [their fortress, their refuge, their stronghold]” (Psalm 28:8, AMP). And Isaiah reassures us: “But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power” (Isaiah 40:31, AMP).

Begin each labor with prayer, trusting the Spirit to empower you. Do not strive in the weakness of your own flesh, but lean on the eternal strength of God. For it is not by might, nor by power, but by His Spirit that we fulfill His work (Zechariah 4:6).

Redeem the Time

Paul’s words echo the urgency of Solomon’s: “Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately… making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence]” (Ephesians 5:15-16, AMP). The days are evil, and the enemy delights in stealing time from God’s children. But the Spirit of God stirs us to redeem the moments and labor for the eternal.

John Wesley’s call rings true: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” Beloved, let every breath, every action, and every moment of your life resound with the glory of God.

A Call to Faithful Action

Hear this, dear one: The work God has given you today is sacred. Do not despise it. Do not delay it. Give yourself wholly to it. The moments of today are pregnant with eternal purpose. Whether you labor in the field, tend to a family, or minister to the brokenhearted, let it all be done for Christ. And know this: “Your labor in the Lord is not futile [nor wasted—it is never without purpose]” (1 Corinthians 15:58, AMP).

Let the evening find you faithful. Let the setting sun see the fruit of hands and hearts given fully to God.

Lord, we surrender this day and all its labors to You. Forgive us for delay and for giving You less than our best. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to serve You with all our might. Teach us to redeem the time and labor for Your glory. May every work of our hands reflect the love and grace You have poured into us. Amen.

See Also

Faith

Unleashing faith

The world has taught us to see limits where God sees none. We need to unlearn what the world calls “impossible” and instead embrace the truth of God’s power.

Wednesday, while I was in the shower, water poured down over two bottles on a shelf—one shampoo, one conditioner. Without my glasses, I couldn’t read the labels, and the water distorted my vision. Instinctively, I reached out to push the water aside, as though it were a curtain I could move. Just before my hand reached it, I realized: water doesn’t work that way. But in that moment, a truth struck me—this is the kind of faith God calls us to. A faith so sure, so unshaken by doubt, that we act in bold belief. I feel if I had just pushed through with my faith it would have moved.

Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith [that is living] like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20 AMP). God invites us to believe in Him beyond what we see or understand. He asks for a faith that trusts His Word completely—without hesitation, without fear.

Yet, how often do we falter? Like Peter walking on water, we begin with bold steps but falter when doubt creeps in. We let what the world calls “impossible” limit our belief in what God can do. But the truth remains: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26 AMP). It is not our strength but God’s power that makes miracles happen.

Let this story remind us to trust God fully. To push past doubt and hold tightly to His promises. Faith calls us to live in bold expectation, knowing that with God, there are no limits.

Let’s pray:

Heavenly Father, we confess that too often we let the world shape our faith instead of Your truth. Help us to unlearn the lies of impossibility and embrace the limitless power of Your Word. Strengthen our faith to act without doubt, to trust You completely, and to believe that all things are possible through You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Go Deeper