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“Who Sinned?”

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Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” — John 9:1-2 (NKJV) I think it’s the nature of the flesh that likes to direct blame onto others. Instead of looking at the past and placing blame, let us be future-minded and seek solutions. The disciples asked: “Who sinned?” The easier question to ask is “Who hasn't sinned?” Only the King of kings and the Lord of lords, our Savior, Yeshua. Hebrews 4:15 says, He has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.  Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him.” (John 9:3 NKJV) Take a moment to reflect on the answer Jesus gave His disciples. Maybe the wrongs we have suffered were allowed to happen so the works of God could be displayed in us and in our lives. Let us praise Yahweh for being with us in all of our trials, troubles and temptations an...

Believe & Live

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And He was saying to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” — John 8:23-24 (NASB1995) Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. (Ephesians 2:1-2 NLT) But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) (Ephesians 2:4-5 NLT) Yeshua came that we may have life, and that we may have it more abundantly. (See John 10:10) Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in the Son has everlasting life; (See John 3:36 & 6:47) Believe and live...

“How Often Should I Forgive?”

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Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!” — Matthew 18:21-22 (NLT) Yeshua says, the second greatest commandment is equally important as the first: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for others].” (See Matthew 22:39 NLT & AMP) Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. (1 Corinthians 13:4-5 NLT) May you forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart, and keep no account of a wrong suffered. First Corinthians 13:5 (VOICE) simply says: Love doesn’t tally wrongs. “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. — Matthew 6:14-15 (NLT)

He Rescues

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Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, but the LORD rescues him from them all. — Psalms 34:19 (AMP) Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. (1 Peter 4:12 NLT) Do not be anxious, nor dismayed. Yahweh, our God is in your midst, and He is mighty to save. Keep your trust in Him at all times. The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him [with awe-inspired reverence and worship Him with obedience], and He rescues [each of] them. O taste and see that the LORD [our God] is good; How blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who takes refuge in Him. O [reverently] fear the LORD, you His saints (believers, holy ones); For to those who fear Him there is no want. (Psalms 34:7-9 AMP)  The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous [those with moral courage and spiritual integrity] and His ears are open to their cry. When the righteous cry [for help], the...

Point of View

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Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.” — Matthew 16:23 (NLT) May we see situations with eyes of faith, from Yahweh’s point of view. His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. (See Isaiah 55:9) Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:1-2 NASB1995) A mind set on the things of man is a tool for Satan to use. Let us have our mind set on the things of Yahweh and His Kingdom. 

Great Faith

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Then Jesus said to her, “O woman, your faith is great; it shall be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed at once. — Matthew 15:28 (NASB1995) The Syrophoenician woman (a Gentile) was one of a few people Yeshua told they had great faith. In Matthew 15:22, she came out and began to cry out, saying, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is cruelly demon-possessed.” She was aware that Yeshua had come into her region. People of great faith are attentive and sensitive to the Lord’ Pre sence, and come to Him. Matthew 15:23 says: He did not answer her a word. And His disciples came and implored Him, saying, “Send her away, because she keeps shouting at us.”  Instead of sending her away, Yeshua answered and said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But she came and began to bow down before Him, saying, “Lord, help me!” She humbled herself before Him and continued to ask Him for help. Great faith is persistent. And He answered and said, “...

“To Whom Shall We Go?”

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As a result of this many of His disciples abandoned Him, and no longer walked with Him. So Jesus said to the twelve [disciples], “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Simon Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You [alone] have the words of eternal life [you are our only hope]. We have believed and confidently trusted, and [even more] we have come to know [by personal observation and experience] that You are the Holy One of God [the Christ, the Son of the living God].” — John 6:66-69 (AMP) In John 6:51, Yeshua said: “I am the Living Bread that came down out of heaven. If anyone eats of this Bread [believes in Me, accepts Me as Savior], he will live forever. And the Bread that I will give for the life of the world is My flesh (body).” Instead of being among those who desert the Savior of the world, be among those who dwell with Him and in Him. May we come to know Him personally and experience an intimate relationship with Him. To whom do you consistently go? You may run to someo...

Rest

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Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.” — Mark‬ ‭6‬:‭31‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) The demands of this world would have us constantly coming and going. Sometimes we need to unwind and unplug. Let us remember to retreat to a quiet place and rest. For thus says the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” But you would not,” (Isaiah‬ ‭30‬:‭15‬ ‭NKJV‬‬) “Quiet your heart in his presence and wait patiently for Yahweh…” (See Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭7‬ ‭TPT‬‬) “Return to your rest, O my soul, for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you. For You have rescued my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. I shall walk before the LORD In the land of the living.” — Psalms‬ ‭116‬:‭7‬-‭9‬ ‭(NASB1995‬‬)

Endurance Needed

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“A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed. And all nations will hate you because you are my followers. But everyone who endures to the end will be saved.”  — Matthew 10:21-22 (NLT) As followers of Christ, we can expect the world to hate us. May we patiently persevere the troubles and trials we go through in this life, and endure to the end. …do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. “For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay.” (Hebrews 10:35-37 NLT) Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with enduran...

Under His Care

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Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the LORD our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care. — Psalms 95:6-7a (NLT) “The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help.” (Psalms 34:15 NLT) “You who love the LORD, hate evil! He protects the lives of his godly people and rescues them from the power of the wicked. Light shines on the godly, and joy on those whose hearts are right. May all who are godly rejoice in the LORD and praise his holy name!” (Psalms 97:10-12 NLT) Yahweh is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures;
 He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. (Psalms 23:1-3 LSB)

Among the Thorns

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The seed which fell among the thorns, these are the ones who have heard, but as they go on their way they are suffocated with the anxieties and riches and pleasures of this life, and they bring no fruit to maturity. — Luke 8:14 (AMP) May we have ears that hear and minds that understand the Word of God. May Yahweh open our eyes to see the wonderful truths in His instructions. (See Psalms 119:18 NLT) Let us treasure His Word in our hearts, that we may not sin against Him. (See Psalms 119:11) Never allow the cares of this life, nor fleeting pleasures, nor the desire for worldly riches to choke the living Word out of you. Trust God and be anxious for nothing. But as for that seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word with a good and noble heart, and hold on to it tightly, and bear fruit with patience. (Luke 8:15 AMP) Patience is required because it takes time for seeds to grow into maturity and produce fruit. Hold firmly to the word of life, so that you may rejoice i...

Rocky Soil

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“Those on the rocky soil are the people who, when they hear, receive and welcome the word with joy; but these have no firmly grounded root. They believe for a while, and in time of trial and temptation they fall away [from Me and abandon their faith].” — Luke 8:13 (AMP) Never abandon your faith. Fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith. (See 2 Timothy 4:7) The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. (1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT) May we receive the Word of God in the good soil of our hearts and be firmly rooted and grounded in it. …the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance. (Luke 8:15 NASB1995)  But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” ...

"Are You the One?"

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And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” — Matthew 11:2-3 (NKJV) In Matthew 3:16-17, John the Baptist baptized Yeshua and heard the voice of the Father say: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” What caused him to doubt? Know that Yeshua is the Messiah, the one and only Savior of the world. Never let difficult circumstances cause you to doubt. Yeshua is the only way, the only truth, and the only life. (See John 14:6) We don’t need to look for anyone else. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. — John 3:16-17 (NKJV)

Cast Every Care

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casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. — 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP) Let us cast each and every care, concern and anxious thought on Yahweh, because He cares for us deeply. “And His mercy is upon generation after generation toward those who [stand in great awe of God and] fear Him.” (Luke 1:50 AMP) Be glad and rejoice in His unfailing love, for He has seen your troubles, and He cares about the anguish of your soul. (See Psalms 31:7 NLT)  For the LORD is our hiding place; He protects us from trouble. He surrounds us with songs of victory. Interlude (See Psalms 32:7)

Be Willing to Listen

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“But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.” — Luke 6:27-28 (NLT) Yeshua repeats this command. It is no mistake. “Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.” (Luke 6:35-36 NLT) May we be willing to listen and eager to obey the teaching of Yeshua, our Savior and Lord. In Luke 6:46 (NASB1995), Yeshua asks: “ Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? ”

ALL Things

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And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose. — Romans 8:28 (AMP) I love that the Word of God says: “ALL” things. That leaves nothing out. No matter how crazy and unsettling current circumstances may appear, we can be certain that they will come to pass, and God will cause something good to eventually come out of the situation. Also, we know that Yahweh is with us through all of our troubles. Let His Presence with us be our greatest source of comfort and confidence. He is faithful to deliver us out of all our troubles and trials.

Peace at All Times

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Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace at all times and in every way [that peace and spiritual well-being that comes to those who walk with Him, regardless of life’s circumstances]. The Lord be with you all. — 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (AMP) In spite of your current circumstances you can have peace at all times. Yahweh will keep in perfect peace, those whose minds are stayed on Him, because they trust in Him. (See Isaiah 26:3 NKJV)

Trust Confidently

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Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way]. — Proverbs 3:5-6 (AMP) …know this day, and consider it in your heart, that the LORD Himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other. (See Deuteronomy 4:39) How blessed is the man who has made Yahweh his trust, and has not turned to the proud, nor to those who stray into falsehood. (Psalms 40:4 LSB) Acknowledge that He is your Maker, the Creator of heaven and earth and all they contain. Recognize that it is only in Him that we live, move and exist. Trust in Yahweh forever, for in Yah—Yahweh Himself—we have an everlasting Rock.  (Isaiah 26:4 LSB) Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him! — Psalms 34:8 (NKJV)

Love the Light

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“This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.” — John‬ ‭3‬:‭19-20‬ ‭(NASB1995‬‬) God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. (See 1 John 1:5 NKJV) No matter how dark the world gets, the darkness can never extinguish it. (See John ‭1:5‬ ‭NLT‬‬) …Jesus said, “I am light to the world, and those who embrace me will experience life-giving light, and they will never walk in darkness.” (John‬ ‭8‬:‭12‬ ‭TPT‬‬) May we love the light and live in the light.

“It is Written...”

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For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever. — 1 John 2:16-17 (NASB1995) In Matthew 4:1, Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. In Matthew 4:4 (NKJV), Jesus answered the devil by saying, “ It is written , ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” In response to the devil’s second temptation, Jesus said to him, “ It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’ ” (See Matthew 4:7 NKJV) The third time, Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written , ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ” (Matthew 4:10 NKJV) “Then the devil went away, and angels came and took care of Jesus.” (Matthew 4:11 NLT)  Yeshua shows us that in times of te...

Repent & Turn to GOD

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In those days John the Baptist came to the Judean wilderness and began preaching. His message was, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.” “Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.” — Matthew 3:1-2, 8 (NLT) Matthew 3:8 (AMP) says to produce fruit that is consistent with repentance [demonstrating new behavior that proves a change of heart, and a conscious decision to turn away from sin]; We are not saved by our works, but once we have received Yeshua, the Messiah as our Savior, our behavior should reflect His Presence in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP) says: …the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord...

Warned by GOD

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“And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.” — Matthew 2:12 (NASB1995) The best kind of warning is a God warning because He knows all. Yahweh speaks to His people in many ways. Let us be sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and exercise discernment. The Spirit of truth will guide you into all the truth. (See John 16:13) If you’re having problems hearing the voice of Yahweh, draw closer to Him and you will be more likely to hear His still small voice. He is always speaking to us through the Holy Scriptures. If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5 AMP) May we heed (pay attention to) the voice of Yahweh and the instruction of His Word. Be wise. Do not ignore or neglect it.

Keep Building

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The fifth time, Sanballat’s servant came with an open letter in his hand, and this is what it said: “There is a rumor among the surrounding nations, and Geshem tells me it is true, that you and the Jews are planning to rebel and that is why you are building the wall. According to his reports, you plan to be their king.”“They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination.” — Nehemiah 6:5-6, 6:9 (NLT) The enemy will always try to hinder or stop the work of Yahweh. It is a good work Yahweh is doing in you and through you. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, He will equip us to fulfill the good plan and purpose God has for us. Despite the hardships and challenges you face, don’t let the enemy discourage you or distract you and cause you to drift away from what Yahweh has for you, nor from what He has called you to accomplish. I am sure of this very thing—that He who began a good work in you...

Great Things

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“ For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me. He shows mercy from generation to generation to all who fear him. His mighty arm has done tremendous things! He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. ” — Luke 1:49-51 (NLT) If you are alive today, the Mighty One has done great things for you, and He didn't bring you this far to abandon you now. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28 NASB1995) “For the eyes of the LORD are [looking favorably] upon the righteous (the upright), and His ears are attentive to their prayer (eager to answer), but the face of the LORD is against those who practice evil.” (1 Peter 3:12 AMP) “From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ.” (John 1:16-17 NLT) Bless Yahweh at all times and let His...

Return to Him

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“From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from My statutes and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says Yahweh of hosts. “But you say, ‘How shall we return?’ — Malachi 3:7 (LSB) James 4:8 (AMP) says: “Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; and purify your [unfaithful] hearts, you double-minded [people].” You can be sure that when you draw near to Yahweh He will draw near to you. In Isaiah 29:13 (NASB1995) the Lord said: “…this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote…” let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:22 NASB1995)

Bless Yahweh

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Bless Yahweh, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless Yahweh, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; — Psalms 103:1-4 (LSB) “Look with wonder at the depth of the Father’s marvelous love that he has lavished on us! He has called us and made us his very own beloved children…” (See 1 John 3:1 TPT) Yahweh is our shepherd, we shall not want. He makes us lie down in green pastures; He leads us beside quiet waters. He restores our souls; He guides us in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. (See Psalms 23:1-3 LSB) “ You satisfy my every desire with good things. You’ve supercharged my life so that I soar again like a flying eagle in the sky! ” — Psalms 103:5 (TPT)

This is the Day

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And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!” — Nehemiah 8:10 (NLT) Let’s look at what preceded this proclamation of joy and celebration. First, all the people assembled with a unified purpose at the square, while Ezra read aloud to everyone who could understand, from early morning until noon. All the people listened closely to the Book of the Law. And they clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage. (See Nehemiah 8:1-2, 8 NLT) Second, Nehemiah 8:6 says they also praised and worshiped the LORD. May we read and listen closely to the Word of God, with understanding. It reveals His faithfulness and the deep and unfailing love Yahweh continually lavishes upon us. Let us also praise and worship the God Most High, our Maker a...

Remember

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  Remember, I pray, the word that You commanded Your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations; but if you return to Me, and keep My commandments and do them, though some of you were cast out to the farthest part of the heavens, yet I will gather them from there, and bring them to the place which I have chosen as a dwelling for My name.’ — Nehemiah 1:8-9 (NKJV) When praying (having a conversation with our Heavenly Father), be like Nehemiah and put Yahweh in remembrance of His Word. He watches over every word He has spoken to fulfill it. His word be that goes forth from His mouth does not return to Him void, but it shall accomplish what He pleases, and it shall prosper in the thing for which He sent it. (See Isaiah 55:11 NKJV) The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:8) And if you have strayed away, return to Yahweh. He loves you.

Our Battles

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Now it came about that when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and very angry and mocked the Jews. — Nehemiah 4:1 (NASB1995) When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard of Nehemiah’s arrival, they were very displeased that someone had come to help the people of Israel. (See Nehemiah 2:10) Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem proceeded to mock the Israelites. Instead of replying to his enemies, Nehemiah turned to Yahweh and prayed, “Hear us, our God, for we are being mocked. May their scoffing fall back on their own heads, and may they themselves become captives in a foreign land! (Nehemiah 4:4 NLT) Know that when you engage in a good work, the enemy will always attempt to discourage, distract and halt the work of Yahweh anyway he can. May we remember that we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in ...

Great & Beyond Measure

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It is because of the LORD’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness. — Lamentations 3:22-23 (AMP) The lovingkindness of Yahweh is in the heavens, His faithfulness reaches to the skies. (See Psalms 36:5 LSB) His faithfulness endures to all generations. (See Psalms 119:90 NKJV) Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. (Psalms 37:3 NKJV) For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, but My lovingkindness will not be removed from you, and My covenant of peace will not be shaken,” says Yahweh who has compassion on you. (Isaiah 54:10 LSB)

No Weapon

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When Haman told his wife Zeresh and all his friends everything that had happened to him, his wise men and his wife Zeresh said to him, “If Mordecai, before whom you have begun to fall, is of Jewish descent, you will not prevail against him but will surely fall before him.” — Esther 6:13 (NKJV) Yahweh is faithful to deliver His people from their enemies. They hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. (See Esther 7:10) Haman’s ten sons were also hanged on the gallows. (See Esther 9:13-14) Proverbs 26:27 (NASB) says: He who digs a pit will fall into it, and he who rolls a stone, it will come back on him. “Now in the twelfth month, that is, the month of Adar, on the thirteenth day, the time came for the king’s command and his decree to be executed. On the day that the enemies of the Jews had hoped to overpower them, the opposite occurred, in that the Jews themselves overpowered those who hated them.” (Esther‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬) No weapon formed against you shall pro...

For Such a Time as This

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The king loved Esther more than all the other women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so he set the royal crown upon her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. — Esther 2:17 (NKJV) God placed Esther in position of royalty to save His people. In Esther 4:16, she said: “And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!” She was willing to risk her life to plead with the king for her people. When we follow the leading of His Holy Spirit, He will ensure that we are in the proper position at the appointed time to fulfill His purpose and plan. We will be empowered and equipped with everything we need to accomplish the mission. Yahweh is faithful to provide everything we need and He always delivers His people from their enemies. “Who knows if perhaps you are in your current position and place for such a time as this?” (See Esther 4:14)

He Will Bring You Through

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And I will bring the third part through the fire and refine them as silver is refined and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘Yahweh is my God.’” — Zechariah 13:9 (LSB) Whatever fiery ordeals you may be going through, know that Yahweh is faithful to bring you through all of them. May He grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans. We will sing joyously over your victory, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners. May the LORD fulfill all your petitions. (Psalms 20:4-5 AMP)  And Yahweh will be king over all the earth; in that day Yahweh will be the only one, and His name one. (Zechariah 14:9 LSB) My mouth will speak the praise of Yahweh, and all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever. (Psalms 145:21 LSB)

Speak the Truth

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“These are the things which you should do: speak the truth to one another; judge with truth and judgment for peace in your gates. Also let none of you devise evil in your heart against another, and do not love false oaths; for all these are what I hate,’ declares Yahweh.” — Zechariah 8:16-17 (LSB) In order to speak truth we must know the truth. Let us search the Holy Scriptures daily, for the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword... and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (See Hebrews 4:12). All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT) As we learn the Word of God and apply it to our lives, we are thoroughly equipped for every good work. In John 8:31-32 (TLV), Yeshua said to the Judeans who had...

Be Joined

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“And many nations will join themselves to Yahweh in that day and will become My people. Then I will dwell in your midst, and you will know that Yahweh of hosts has sent Me to you.” — Zechariah 2:11 (LSB) Let us be eternally joined to Yahweh. May we walk closely with Him, each and every moment of the day. For the eyes of Yahweh move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is wholly devoted to Him. (See 2 Chronicles 16:9 LSB) And take each step in faith, knowing that He will bring us to a glorious destination. Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship. (Romans 12:1 AMP)

Victory is Ours

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“No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” — Romans 8:37 (NLT) Praise Yahweh that despite all these things (troubles, trials, temptations, the storms of life, etc.), we are more than conquerors through Christ. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. (1 John 4:4 NKJV) For everyone born of God is victorious and overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has conquered and overcome the world—our [continuing, persistent] faith [in Jesus the Son of God]. (1 John 5:4 AMP) …thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV) And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.  — Revelation 12:11 (NASB1995)

Be Rooted & Grounded

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… that He (the Father) would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. — Ephesians 3:16-19 (NASB1995) The root of the tree draws in the nourishment it needs to survive. Let us be deeply rooted and grounded in the love of God, and draw our nourishment and strength from Him. In him we live and move and exist. (See Acts 17:28)  And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the ear...

Know Him for Yourself

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Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world.” — John 4:42 (NKJV) In John 4:7, a woman of Samaria came to draw water when Jesus started a conversation with her. Little did she know it was a meeting that would change the trajectory of her life forever. After having a conversation with Jesus, the woman left her waterpot, went into the city, and said to the men, “Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” Then they went out of the city and came to Him. (See John 4:28-30) And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.” So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His own word. (See John 4:39-41) We should not rely on what others tell us about...

Do Not Be Deceived

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“At the end of their rule, when their sin is at its height, a fierce king, a master of intrigue, will rise to power. He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause a shocking amount of destruction and succeed in everything he does. He will destroy powerful leaders and devastate the holy people. He will be a master of deception and will become arrogant; he will destroy many without warning. He will even take on the Prince of princes in battle, but he will be broken, though not by human power. — Daniel 8:23-25 (NLT) Titus 1:10 (NASB1995) warns us that there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers. For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. (2 John 1:7 NASB1995) Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Know the truth, the Holy Scriptures. Fight the good fight, finish the course, and keep the faith. (See 2 Timothy 4:7) Indeed, all who desire to...

The Most High Rules

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“After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal. All the people of the earth are nothing compared to him. He does as he pleases among the angels of heaven and among the people of the earth. No one can stop him or say to him, ‘What do you mean by doing these things?’ — Daniel 4:34-35 (NLT) In Daniel 4:28-30, King Nebuchadnezzar looked out across the city and said: “Look at this great city of Babylon! By my own mighty power, I have built this beautiful city as my royal residence to display my majestic splendor.” Because of his pride, “He was driven from human society. He was given the mind of a wild animal, and he lived among the wild donkeys. He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven, until he learned that the Most High God rules over the kingdoms of the world and appoints anyone he desire...

He Delivers

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Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to give you an answer concerning this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.” — Daniel 3:16-18 (NASB1995) Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to serve the gods of king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, nor did they worship the gold statue he set up.” (See Daniel 3:12 NLT) When faced with being thrown into the blazing furnace, they clung to their faith in Yahweh, knowing that He was able to save them. And even if He didn’t deliver them, they made it clear to the king, that they would never serve his gods or worship the gold statue. (See Daniel 3:18 NLT) When faced with our own fiery ordeals, let us be totally convinced and confident that our great God ...

Decide Today

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“Thousands upon thousands are waiting in the valley of decision. There the day of the LORD will soon arrive.” — Joel 3:14 (NLT)  The day of the LORD is near, the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. How terrible that day will be! (Joel 1:15 NLT) Make a decision today to follow Yahweh. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (See 2 Corinthians 6:2 NKJV ) That is why the LORD says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish. (Joel 2:12-13 NLT) “And it shall come about that whoever calls on the name of the LORD will be saved [from the coming judgment]… (See Joel 2:32 AMP).

Made Right

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We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. — Romans 3:22 (NLT)   This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all those [Jew or Gentile] who believe [and trust in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s Son]. There is no distinction, since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God, (Romans 3:22-23 AMP). I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. (Isaiah 61:10 NKJV) For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT) Amen. And hallelu-YAH! Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; And let those who love Your salvation say continu...

Bless the LORD

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“ Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: ” — Psalms 103:1-2 (NKJV) May we always remember and be forever grateful for all the good things Yahweh does for us. Bless the LORD, Who pardons all our iniquities, Who heals all our diseases; Who redeems our lives from the pit, Who crowns us with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies our years with good things, so that our youth is renewed like the eagle. (See Psalms 103:3-5 NASB1995) The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. (Psalms 103:8 NKJV) For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:11-12 NKJV)  “…the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to such as keep His covenant, and t...

Be Renewed

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Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. — Ephesians 4:21-24 (NLT) Ephesians 4:23 (AMP) says: “be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh, untarnished mental and spiritual attitude].” The process of being renewed is continual. May we daily present our bodies to God as a living and holy sacrifice. Instead of copying the behavior and customs of this world, let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (See Romans 12:1-2) Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the ...

Always Pray

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One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up. — Luke 18:1 (NLT) Jesus told a story about a widow who came to a judge repeatedly, saying, ‘Give me justice in this dispute with my enemy.’ The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, ‘I don’t fear God or care about people, but this woman is driving me crazy. I’m going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!’” (See Luke 18:2-5 NLT) Then the Lord said, “Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don’t you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?” (Luke 18:6-8 NLT) “And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will...

The Only Way

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Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” — John 14:6 (AMP) In Matthew 16:13 (TLV) Yeshua asked His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They answered, “Some say John the Immerser, others say Elijah, and still others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.” He said, “But who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:14-16) Who do you say He is? Your very life depends on your answer. He is Lord of lords and King of kings; (See Revelation 17:14 NKJV) He is the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End [the Eternal One].” (See Revelation 22:13 AMP) Matthew 1:23 (NKJV) says: “…they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” John says of Him, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (See John 1:29) May our hearts be open to receive Him and follo...

Commit Your Way

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Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. — Psalms 37:5-6 (NKJV) Commit your works to the LORD [submit and trust them to Him], and your plans will succeed [if you respond to His will and guidance]. (Proverbs 16:3 AMP) We must respond to God's will by following His guidance, if we want our plans to succeed. All the paths of the LORD are lovingkindness and truth to those who keep His covenant and His testimonies. (Psalms 25:10 NASB1995) He crowns the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance. (See Psalms 65:11 NLT) “Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow.” — Psalms 25:4 (NLT)

A Very Present Help

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God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah. — Psalms 46:1-3 (NASB1995) When we are in the midst of troubles, trials and temptations, Yahweh is with us. He never abandons us. Not only is He our constant Companion, He is always ready to help in times of trouble. He is also our strength, to bring us through. “Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.” (Psalms 34:5 NLT) The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. (Psalms 34:15-17 NKJV) The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, an...

Be Slow to Speak

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Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving]; — James 1:19 (AMP) Death and life are in the power of the tongue (see Proverbs 18:21), so let us choose our words carefully. “Reckless words are like the thrusts of a sword, cutting remarks meant to stab and to hurt. But the words of the wise soothe and heal.” (Proverbs 12:18 TPT) Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29 NASB1995) “ Nothing is more appealing than speaking beautiful, life-giving words. For they release sweetness to our souls and inner healing to our spirits. ” —‭‭ Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬ ‭(TPT‬‬)