Take it to the Lord In Prayer

Photo by Karola G

What power there is in knowing we can come before God and share our deepest concerns with Him. Such is the God we have and the love He has for us. In both the Old and New Testaments, communication with God was central to the relationship He shared with His people.

In a word, prayer is communication. It is going before God and speaking to Him honestly, attentively, and respectfully. Our prayers make our requests known to God. Our prayers are to be done without ceasing. Our prayers should be offered to God in times of thanksgiving and distress, in sickness and in health and, above all, in faith.

We know that we have salvation from our sins through faith in Jesus’ sacrifice, death, and resurrection. And by this redemption, we are transformed into God’s children. As God’s children, we can call on our Father at any time, place, or circumstance.

Today let’s remember the 19th-century song: “What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!” To pray then, is to speak with God as one would a friend. You surely have needs, fears, and joys. Through a simple prayer, and of your own accord, thank God for the joy of living He is giving you. Thank Him for your good health, the people in your life, and for His provision. Let God know of your fears and everything that hurts you and breaks your heart. Pour out your tears before God, and He will comfort you. He will bless you and give you peace even in times of trouble.

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. (Colossians 4:2)

Let’s Pray
Yahweh, we thank You for the gift of prayer that we might make all our heartfelt concerns known to You. Father, remind us that You are near and hear our prayers whenever and wherever we offer them. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

As A Mother Comforts #2

silhouette of woman

With murders in the UK hitting an all time high, prisons are bursting at the seams, divorce is still over 50% and mental health is growing at an alarming rate. Oftentimes when life has challenges, the natural tendency is to seek comfort in things that are familiar. It may be drugs, work, an activity or relationships; and of course, we all know about “comfort eating.” But those things only bring temporary comfort.

I believe true comfort is only found in a relationship with Jesus. According to Webster’s dictionary, comfort means to give strength and hope; to ease grief or trouble. No matter what difficulty you may be facing today, God wants to bring you comfort. Like a mother cares for her child, He longs to give you strength, hope and confidence.

Today, turn to Him. Receive His love. Let go of things that would hold you back. Let God heal your heart and mind, let Him give you strength and comfort for the road ahead. Let Him empower you to rise up and overcome every obstacle in Jesus’ Name! 

“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you…” (Isaiah 66:13, NIV)

Pray With Me

Yahweh, I come to You today and invite You to fill my whole being. Father, please  heal my community. Give me and those that are mourning Your comfort and strength. Empower me by Your Holy Spirit during these challenging times, so that I can live in the victory You have planned for me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

Drop Your Stone

Photo by cottonbro studio

In my youth, many moons ago, we were drawn to “who done it” detective movies. Real-life movies about murder, tragedy, love, and heroism, and we tended to hope for a happy ending. Our imaginations would get fired up with the plot’s twists and turns. We didn’t like it when a character got treated unfairly, and we smiled when justice was served. We would walk away satisfied when it all ended well. 

Stories in Scripture and life can work out a little differently. I don’t know who the adulterous woman in the story of John 8 is, or where her story started, but I am pretty sure she didn’t want to be dragged into a public square and threatened with execution. Having your faults exposed for everyone to see is not something any of us want in our life story. It is easy to judge others and find fault, but remember Jesus, is there looking and listening. 

Today, let us think about the adulterous woman. She was guilty as charged, as we often are, but at that moment when Christ told them, “you who are without sin throw a stone,” He reminds us that we are all sinners and that this woman represents all of us. Only Jesus has the right to throw a stone, and He chooses not to. Instead, He decides to use grace and forgiveness. In this season, Christ asks us to throw away our judgemental stones and follow His example. 

“Where are [your accusers]? Has no one condemned you? . . . Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” — John 8:10-11 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for reminding us today that our task is not to judge others but instead to offer people your forgiveness. Father, help us all to accept your offer of forgiveness and begin living a new story. In Christ’ name, Amen. 

God Is Listening

person standing on sand

In a world where our voices can often feel lost in the chaos, this assurance from God is a reason for hope. He invites us to communicate with Him, assuring us that He hears our prayers. Unlike human listeners, God’s attention is not limited or flawed. He listens with perfect understanding, compassion, and wisdom.

This divine listening is not passive but active. God is not just a recipient of our words; He responds with His presence, guidance, and comfort. He engages with our concerns, our joys, our fears, and our hopes.

Today, as we reflect on God’s promise in Jeremiah 29, we learn to approach God with confidence and honesty in our prayers. Let’s cherish this intimate dialogue, knowing that God is not just a listener but an active participant in our lives. In prayer, we find a God who listens attentively and responds with love and power.

Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. (Jeremiah 29:12)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude for Your enduring love and a faithful listening ear. Help me to not just speak but also to listen, fostering a two-way relationship with You. I take comfort in knowing that when I call upon You, You will listen. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Exceedingly, Abundantly, Above

Do you believe that God wants to work in your life exceedingly, abundantly, above all you could ask or think? Do you believe He wants to overwhelm you with His goodness and blessings? He really wants to do exceedingly abundant things in your life, more than you could think or imagine.  

The Scripture, says that no person has ever seen, heard or even imagined the wonderful things that God has in store for those who love the Lord. But we must have faith in what He says and in His power. if we have faith the size of a tiny mustard seed, we can move mountains the Bible says. Faith comes from studying God’s Word. 

Today, make God’s Word your priority. Believe that He will do exceedingly, abundantly, above all you can ask or think. He is faithful to His Word, and He will be faithful to fulfill every promise He’s made to you!

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20–21, NKJV) 

Let’s Pray
Yahweh, thank You so much for Your daily goodness. Father, thank You for blessing me and doing exceedingly, abundantly, above all I can ask or think, You are truly amazing! God, thank You for increasing my faith as I focus on Your Word, in Christ’s Name! Amen.  

Hope In Context

man wearing blue dress

Today’s verse in Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you…” is often quoted as a personal promise—but its context is crucial. God spoke these words through Jeremiah to the Israelites in exile. They were far from home, facing discipline for their disobedience, and feeling uncertain about what was to come. Yet even in that place of hardship, God reminded them that His plans were not over—and neither was His love.

The word “plans” here refers to intentional purposes God is not reacting to our lives; He is directing them. Though we don’t always understand the path He leads us on, we can rest in the truth that His intentions are for our good and His glory.

This promise doesn’t mean a life without hardship, but it does mean that no pain is wasted. God is always moving His people toward a future filled with hope even if the present feels confusing or hard.

Today, when life feels uncertain, cling to the character of God. His plan may not match your timeline, but it’s filled with His perfect wisdom. Write this verse down and revisit it in moments of doubt His future for you is full of hope.

‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29:11

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, help me trust Your plans, even when I don’t see the whole picture. Father, thank You for promising hope and a future rooted in Your goodness. God, please teach me to wait well, knowing You are always working for my good. In Christ name Amen

Flip The Script

Challenges and obstacles are normal in this life. During these difficult seasons, we have a choice. We can get negative and discouraged and talk about how things are not going to work out, or we can flip the script and go into praise and thanksgiving mode, which opens the door for God to move on our behalf.

“I’ll have a better attitude as soon as I get over this health issue.” Or “I’ll give God praise when I get through these tough times.” That’s not faith. As long as you’re negative, discouraged and focused on your problems, it limits what God can do in your life. Faith says, you’ve got to praise God in advance, and then the breakthrough will come. Flip the script, change your focus, and watch things change in your favour. Praise always precedes victory.

Today, flip the negative script, stop dwelling on the wrong things and focusing in the wrong direction, go into a season of praise and thanksgiving, which will confuse the enemy and the negative people in your life. Begin to declare that God is good. Declare that He is faithful. Declare His praises and open the door to victory! Hallelujah!

“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines…yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:17-18, NKJV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, today I humbly come before You, asking You to give me Your Spirit, so I can flip the script in my life, not focusing on the negative, but lifting You up and magnifying Your Holy Name. God, I will praise You at all times, despite the negative influences around me, for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. I bless You and honour You for Your goodness, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

Outsiders

When God Didn’t Give You the Life You Dreamed—Not Even Close

The woman at the well met Jesus. He could have easily come up with some excuses to avoid her. For example, a Jewish man like him was not supposed to associate with a Samaritan woman. Also, as Jesus himself knew, she had been married five times (John 4:18)—and because the ­divorce law gave only husbands the right to divorce, that meant she had been left and rejected five times. As a result, she was an outsider in her community, a woman with a checkered past.

But Jesus asked her for a drink of water. He ­allowed her to serve him water, and then he also offered her a much greater gift: the living water of eternal life. Afterwards, many other people in her community believed her story about Jesus and started to follow him too (see John 4:39-41).

Today, as he did for the woman at the well, Jesus still approaches people who feel like outsiders, and he shows compassion and love. To you who are thirsty for acceptance: Jesus is the one who can quench your thirst.

Let’s Reflect

Do you have things in your past that you would ­rather forget? Do you have things that other people have held against you, assumed about you, or used to keep you on the outside? Give It to God.

Jesus answered, “. . . Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14).

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, help me to drink the living water of eternal life that you offer, that I may thirst no more. Father, satisfy me always with your caring love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Integrity A Necessity 

man wearing bonnet and hoodie

Integrity is something that seems to have disappeared from our society, yet it is such a powerful attribute in the life of the believer. Integrity means that you are dependable. You are a person of your word. You are consistent and honest.

You may say, “Oh, I’m a pretty good person”, “I do the right thing most of the time…” But understand, it’s the little foxes that spoil the vine. Don’t allow the little things to keep you from your destiny; choose integrity — even when no one is looking. For instance, you might need some paper at home, but you shouldn’t take supplies from the office. Or you might be running into a store for just a minute, but don’t park in the handicap parking spot unless you’re supposed to. If the checkout clerk makes a mistake and gives you too much money back, that’s not God’s provision, that’s a test of integrity!

Today remember, if you’ll be faithful and choose integrity in the little things, God will make you ruler over much. Don’t forget, “what goes around comes around.” Be a person of integrity and open the door for God’s blessing and honour all the days of your life!

“The Lord judges the people; judge me, O Lord, and do me justice according to my righteousness [my rightness, justice, and right standing with You] and according to the integrity that is in me” (Psalm 7:8, AMP).

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, today I commit to living a life of integrity in every area of my life. God, I choose Your life of excellence and ask for Your hand of favour. Father, make me a person of integrity; dependable, consistent, honest and a person of my word. Show me any area that is not pleasing to You so that I can continue to grow and increase in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

The Witness In Consistency

Today’ let’s focus on the witness of Daniel. His habits of prayer were known to the people around him. He practised his rituals of faith openly before his community. There was no question of where Daniel’s allegiance centred. In Daniel 6, The King commented about the God whom Daniel continually served.

Rituals can get a bad name, as empty routines that have no meaning or worse, as showy demonstrations of spirituality. But they can also be helpful disciplines and powerful practices to reorient our hearts to God amid life’s chaos. Regular routines are helpful for keeping us centred on God. Neglecting prayer and the study of God’s Word results in spiritual depletion. Rather, we need a break from busyness and more quiet time with God, to help us reconnect with him as the source of our strength and encouragement.

Today, as mentors, we can share how God is still working on us. We can demonstrate the value of time in prayer and in God’s Word that shapes us into the people God has called us to be. However, we need to be consistently connected to the vine, Yahweh, if we are going to see fruit develop in our lives. What spiritual habits are you engaging in to keep your life focused on God? How have you been blessed by routines of nurturing faith?

Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. (Daniel 6:10).

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, help me establish regular prayer habits, worship habits, and consistency with You and Your Word. Father, may my habits of faith draw others, including my enemies, to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Remain In…

In this profound statement, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of a deep, abiding relationship with Him. He is the true vine—the source of life, nourishment, and growth. We are merely branches. Our fruitfulness, our effectiveness in the Christian life, and even our spiritual vitality depend entirely on our connection to Him.

Jesus does not suggest that we can do less without Him; He declares that we can do nothing. This is a sobering reminder to the self-reliant and a comforting truth to the humble. The strength, wisdom, and grace we need for every good work, every faithful word, and every enduring trial flows from Him alone.

To “remain” in Christ is not a passive concept. It involves ongoing trust, obedience, prayer, and love. It is choosing to dwell in His Word, depend on His Spirit, and walk in His will day by day.

Today, Is your spiritual life dry or unfruitful? Perhaps you’ve been striving in your own strength. Recommit to abiding in Christ. Spend intentional time in the Word. Cut off distractions that sever your connection to Him. Trust that fruitfulness will follow faithfulness.

  I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”  John 15:5

Let’s Pray

Yahweh help me to remain in You daily and draw strength from Your presence. Fatherr, remove anything in my life that hinders my walk with You. God, bear fruit through me that brings glory to the you. In Christ name Amen.

Pruning Time 

person harvesting chilies using pruning shears

While pastoring in central California I was surrounded by vineyards. Have you ever walked through a vineyard? In John 15, Jesus’ words to His disciples reveal that He had passed through many vineyards. He had no doubt observed a caretaker faithfully preparing the grape vines for harvest: tenderly and thoroughly examining each vine and its branches to ensure maximum yield for many seasons to come. 

Jesus used this metaphor of the vineyard to emphasise, among other things, the necessity of the Father tenderly trimming branches in our lives so we can produce an even greater yield for His Kingdom. The Father separates the unproductive branches from the vine, enabling the remaining branches to flourish. 

Today what do you need to prune from your life so you can become more fruitful? Pruning can be painful and perplexing, but every believer, regardless of call or creed, and if he or she remains organically connected to the true vine, is commissioned, and pruned to bear eternal fruit. Are you a believer? then you are a candidate to be pruned and trimmed tenderly and thoroughly empowering you to thrive and flourish as you faithfully abide in God. If you’re not a believer, then choose to make Christ the centre of your life. Allowing Him to remove all the negatives from your life. 

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” John 15:1-2 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for Your love. Father, help me to discern and to surrender to your daily pruning process so that I can faithfully and effectively bear fruit for Your kingdom.  God, please Empower me for maximum yield in the harvest fields of my sphere of influence no matter how hard it may be. In Christ’s name Amen. 

Why Are You So Afraid?

The disciples had just experienced a violent storm. The wind roared, waves crashed over the boat, and they feared for their lives. But Jesus calm and undisturbed—was asleep. When they cried out in panic, He stood, rebuked the storm, and brought immediate peace. Then He turned to His disciples with a question: “Why are you so afraid?”

Jesus wasn’t scolding them for acknowledging danger. He was exposing their lack of trust in him. Despite witnessing His power, hearing His words, and walking beside Him, they still let fear rule their hearts. Faith does not deny the storm—it believes in the Savior who rules over it.

We, too, face storms—emotional, relational, spiritual. Fear tempts us to believe that God is unaware or uncaring. But Christ is present in every storm, and He is never powerless. His authority over nature proves His authority over every trial we face.

Today, when fear rises, remember who is in the boat with you. Christ has not abandoned you. He is fully aware, fully able, and fully in control. Trade fear for faith by trusting in His presence and power.

He said to his disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’”  Mark 4:40

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, help me to trust You when storms rage around me. Father, strengthen my faith to believe You are always in control. Remind me Lord that Your presence brings peace, even in the hardest moments. In Christ name Amen

Spiritual Arrogance

The book of Jude warns against those who arrogantly reject truth and speak against things they do not understand. These false teachers rely on their own instincts, following man made policy instead of God given principle, acting like unreasoning animals instead of seeking wisdom from God. Their pride and rebellion ultimately will lead to their own destruction.

Today’s verse serves as a reminder that human reasoning, apart from God, is dangerous. When people reject divine truth and trust only in their own theology, instincts, and desires, will fall into sin and judgment. True wisdom comes from humility before God and submission to His Word.

As believers, we must remain anchored in God’s truth rather than following the world’s ever-changing opinions. We are called to seek His wisdom and discernment, ensuring that our words and actions reflect His righteousness, not human arrogance.

Today, are you relying on God’s wisdom or your own understanding? Seek His truth daily and be careful not to dismiss spiritual realities that you may not fully grasp.

“Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct—as irrational animals do—will destroy them.” – Jude v.10

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I pray for humility to seek your wisdom instead of leaning on personal understanding. Father, I ask for discernment to recognize false teachings and deception. I Pray for a non judgemental heart that submits to God’s truth rather than human instincts. in Christ name Amen

Friends Of God

Today’s verse gives us a glimpse into the relational heart of God. As the Lord prepared to bring judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah, He paused and considered Abraham His chosen servant, His covenant friend. God wasn’t obligated to explain His actions, but He chose transparency. “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?”

This moment tells us something vital about the character of God: He is not distant or secretive with those who walk with Him. He invites us into His purposes. Throughout Scripture, we see this pattern—God reveals His plans to His people so they can participate through obedience, prayer, and intercession.

Abraham’s role wasn’t just to receive promises but to understand God’s heart. And when God revealed His intent, Abraham boldly interceded for the righteous in Sodom. Relationship with God isn’t passive—it’s active and full of purpose.

Today as believers, we are called friends of God through Christ (John 15:15). He reveals Himself through His Word and His Spirit—not just so we can know, but so we can respond.

Then the Lord said, “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?”  Genesis 18:17

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for inviting me into a relationship where You reveal Your heart. Father, help me listen carefully and respond in obedience and intercession. Lord please give me a heart that longs to understand and align with Your will. In Christ name Amen

Stop Complicating Christianity

man wearing bonnet and hoodie

In a world that often complicates faith with endless rules, opinions, and performance, Micah brings us back to the heart of what God truly desires. Israel had been offering sacrifices, trying to appease God with external actions. God reminds us that He’s not interested in empty religion. He wants a life that reflects His character and that is simply faithfully. God doesn’t leave us guessing on what’s important to him:

  1. Act justly—Live with integrity. Stand up for what’s right, even when it’s costly. Justice isn’t just legal; it’s relational. It means treating others as image-bearers of God, with fairness and dignity.
  2. Love mercy—Don’t just give mercy grudgingly—love it. Show kindness and forgiveness, not because people deserve it, but because God has lavished mercy on you.
  3. Walk humbly with your God—This is the posture of the heart. True humility recognizes our dependence on God and puts His will above our own. It’s not about show—it’s about surrender.

Today, consider your daily walk. Are you pursuing justice in your relationships, loving mercy in how you respond to others, and walking humbly in step with God’s Word? The Lord doesn’t ask for perfection, but for a heart aligned with His.

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, teach me to love what You love—integrity, justice, and mercy. Father, help me walk humbly, not in pride or self-sufficiency.. Please Lord, teach me how to Let my life reflect what You truly require of me. I choose today to live a simple, faithful, Christ centered life in Christ name Amen

 

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