#Matthew 17:6

[mindfulldsliving]

Understanding the Fear of God: Impact on Faith and Wisdom

It is vital to rest in God's love, but that love is best understood when seen against the backdrop of His awe-inspiring greatness and our own need for His mercy. This perspective doesn’t just comfort us; it transforms us, grounding us in true wisdom that

Photo by Jr Korpa on Unsplash Introduction Proverbs 9:10-12 provides profound insights into the interconnectedness of the fear of God, faith, wisdom, and God’s love. These verses emphasize that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and that understanding leads to a fulfilling life. To fully grasp the depth of these concepts, it’s essential to explore related scriptures and their…

[walkswithmyfather]

1. When you need, God knows:

Philippians 4:19 (NIV). “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

2. When you ask, God listens:

Proverbs 15:29 (ESV). “The LORD is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.”

3. When you believe, God works:

2 Kings 20:5 (NIV). “I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you.”

4. When you thank, God gives more. Jesus gave thanks and fed the five thousand!

Matthew 14:17-21 (NIV). “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. “Bring them here to me,” he said. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.”

5. Everything comes from God:

James 1:17 (AMP). “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [for He is perfect and never changes].”

6. And whatever you give, you'll get just as much back, if not more!

Luke 6:38 (CSB). “Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over—will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”

We serve a good, loving and giving God! Amen! 🙏🕊️🙌

[disneynerdpumpkin]

~ Scriptures about forgiveness ~

Matthew 6:15 "But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

Colossians 3:13 "Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."

Daniel 9:9 "To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him."

Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

Proverbs 10:12 "Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses."

Micah 7:18 "Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love."

Mark 11:25 "And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses."

Luke 17:3-4 "Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him."

Luke 6:37 "Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:"

Matthew 6:14 "For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:"

1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Isaiah 1:8 "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

James 5:16 "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

[adventism-atheism-orthodoxy-me]

This Verse Secretly Undermines All of Christianity...

I just saw this and thought I would process it on my own.

This YouTuber doesn't sound like he's explored much beyond mainstream Western Christianity. He makes the bold statement that EVERY Christian sect finds indispensable the idea that Christ died on the Cross "for our sins". Period.

For the longest time I found that challenging too. He goes on to talk about many of the same things I've asked, "Why couldn't God just forgive us outright? Why must he go through a generational pageant to do something the God of the Universe could have done of his own accord in the first place?"

You can say this is a dumb question. I've been told this many times.

Yet I have never been the only one asking this.

Many, if not all Atheists ask this question. Frankly, many "Christian" answers sound a little unhinged.

Now, I don't think that his examples necessarily contradict the prevailing point of view though. All anyone has to do is look at the banking industry to see that credit on future earnings is a valid payment method. Now it's true that modern banking, and especially credit, wasn't developed until the European Jews, unable to make a living any other way, started lending during the medieval period. Jesuits came up with the idea of insurance, which didn't technically fall under the prohibition against usury. And with ongoing innovation, modern financial markets developed.

None of these, of course, would have been understood by the local people of Jesus' time and place.

What was understood was life and death.

And this is where I found my peace.

Sins can easily be forgiven, but sickness and eventual death? That's a whole other nut to crack. Now, to be clear, unfortunately even the most traditional Christian communities have started to obsess about how SIN must be atoned!

But there is a strain in the oldest Christian traditions that it wasn't primarily sin that was destroyed on the cross, but rather death, disease, corruption (of which sin is a derivation to be sure, but not the point).

Now it's easy to look around and say - "Look! it didn't work." I myself have had to say good bye to both my parents over the last several months.

However, there is a resurrection that is promised. And if Christ has done what he said he did, then there WILL be a general resurrection.

The key is to be prepared for that resurrection. Now we could go on about which denomination is best prepared, but I have little faith in denominationalism. I think it's a means to conquer and divide the faithful, pitting follower against follower. Soon the God who's being worshiped isn't the most High God, but the Deceiver who encourages us all to call each other heretics. I do not think most "Christians" are Christian, but rather following their own wisdom (1 Timothy 6:3-5, 2 Thessalonians 2:11, Matthew 7:13-14, Matthew 24:11).

Now I may be a false teacher myself for thinking such a thing and putting it out there, but I have faith that God will know his own. And while he loves the rest, and has given them life, that life will be so much less for the fact that they reject what he's given them.

I find the idea of a river of fire helpful - Moses and the Glory of God (Exodus 33:20-23), speaks to the idea that to human senses, God is Fire. The Story of the Three Holy Youths (Daniel 3) has also been seen as an illustration of man abiding in the presence of fire, as a proxy for God, unharmed. Pentecost is God's fire experienced by the faithful after his resurrection. How will Gods fire be experienced by the unfaithful?

I have no idea, but I doubt that it will be pleasant (Luke 16:19-31).

In short, I feel this video failed to land it's point. There's enough diversity in Christianity to survive this argument, though I do not think that most modern Christians are open to my resolution.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Have mercy upon me, a sinner.

[bojackson54]

Words Matter. Read These and See If You Don't Agree

Read every word of this quote, and see if it sounds sane, or crazy. “Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the Father, but by me.'” (John 14:6, NIV) This short statement is amazingly full, and it’s worth challenging. It’s also worth considering. Depth Not Length First of all, consider the first two words: Jesus SAID. The spoken word is incredibly important in the…

[coptorthodox]

But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 6:17-18

[graceandpeacejoanne]

"What's In It for Me?"

The Bible also talks about being good stewards, being responsible as well as generous. You and I cannot spend what is not ours, what is supposed to cover our obligations.  But we can be responsible and generous, just as God is.

Published almost twenty years ago, “Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To” by Anthony DeStefano changed how I pray and how I experience God’s answers to my prayer. I’ll be spending the next few weeks talking about what I got from his book, and how applying the principles in this book to my own life changed me. The Floodgates of Heaven God will never be outdone in generosity.  In fact this is the…

[doulafaith]

Who Do You Say You Are?

“If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written: ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” Matthew 4:5-6 Immediately following Jesus’ baptism, the heavens were opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, and there was a voice from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son in…

[inspiredbyhisword]

Bible Study: Building Deep Roots

This journal entry captures a heartfelt reflection on your spiritual and professional journey. It highlights your desire to deepen your relationship with God, find balance, and discern His will for your future. Let’s analyze the themes, provide biblical context for study, and offer guidance for further reflection and prayer.

Analysis and Context for Bible Study

Mark 4:17 – Spiritual Roots and Endurance

The verse reminds us that faith needs deep roots to endure trials and challenges. Your reflection ties beautifully to this truth: moments of spiritual immersion, like church summer camps, filled your heart with joy, but the pressures of life distracted you from fully applying His Word. This echoes the rocky soil, where joy is temporary without depth to sustain it. Developing deep roots requires consistent exposure to God’s Word and persistent prayer, as you noted.

Your desire to integrate prayer into every aspect of your day and approach Bible study with intentionality demonstrates a commitment to spiritual growth. This is a powerful way to build endurance, ensuring your faith isn’t easily shaken by burnout, career uncertainties, or worldly distractions.

Faith Without Works is Dead (James 2:26)

You rightly connect your reflections to the idea that hearing God’s Word isn’t enough—it must inspire action. Faith becomes alive through obedience, whether by prioritizing prayer, seeking clarity in your career, or pursuing opportunities that align with His plan. Your approach to actively applying for positions, researching social work fields, and seeking volunteer opportunities demonstrates a willingness to put your faith into action, trusting that God will guide your steps.

Matthew 7:7 – Seeking God’s Direction

The verse you chose, “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7, NLT), offers encouragement and a roadmap for discernment. It affirms that persistence in prayer, research, and action will lead to clarity. God’s answers may not come instantly, but your active pursuit shows faith in His timing and trust in His plans.

Professional Reflection in Light of Scripture

Your career path reflects a mix of diligence, uncertainty, and burnout. Balancing a calling to help others with the practicalities of work-life balance and financial stability is a common struggle. Jeremiah 29:11 also resonates here, reminding you of God’s good plans for your future. Trust that He is using this season to prepare you for what’s next, even if the final picture isn’t clear yet.

Your plan to volunteer as a domestic violence/sexual assault advocate shows wisdom. This step aligns with Proverbs 16:9: “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps” (NLT). By seeking experience and networking, you are positioning yourself for clarity while leaving room for God to guide you.

Spiritual Insights and Next Steps

Deepening Spiritual Roots: To build a strong foundation, keep incorporating prayer into every aspect of your day. Use scripture meditation and journaling as tools to internalize God’s Word. Reflect on how each verse applies to your life and transforms your perspective.

Trusting God in Career Decisions: Lean on Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take” (NLT). Surrender your uncertainties to Him while continuing your diligent research and efforts.

Managing Burnout: Seek moments of rest and renewal, remembering Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (NLT). Find ways to recharge spiritually and physically so that you can approach your current role and future goals with clarity and strength.

Prayers for Guidance and Strength

For Deep Roots: Father, help me develop deep roots in Your Word. Teach me to prioritize prayer and Bible study so that I can grow in my faith and stand firm through challenges.

For Clarity in Career Decisions: Lord, guide my steps as I navigate my career path. Help me to seek Your will above all else and trust that You are leading me toward Your good plans for my life.

For Renewal and Rest: God, give me the strength to persevere and the wisdom to find balance. Help me to trust in Your provision and find peace in Your presence.

For Faith in Action: Holy Spirit, empower me to put my faith into action. Let my decisions and efforts reflect trust in Your promises and obedience to Your Word.

Closing Reflection

Your journal entry reflects a genuine desire to grow in faith and seek God’s direction. Remember, God doesn’t waste any part of your journey—every step, even the challenging ones, serves a purpose in His plan. Continue to knock, seek, and trust, knowing that He will provide clarity in due time. Keep anchoring yourself in His Word, and He will lead you to a fulfilling path aligned with His will.

[walkswithmyfather]

“And the Lord answered, If you had faith (trust and confidence in God) even [so small] like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, Be pulled up by the roots, and be planted in the sea, and it would obey you.” —Luke 17:6 (AMPC)

“And He said to them, “Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.” —Matthew 17:20 (NASB)

Friend, if you ever think that you aren't big enough or strong enough or you just don't have enough faith, I want you to remember Luke 17:6 and Matthew 17:20. It is not how big your faith is that matters....all it takes is faith the size of a mustard seed to do great things...it's THE ONE in whom you place your faith that makes the seemingly impossible, possible.

Friend, keep praying! Keep believing. He who is able to do miracles in your life, through your prayers, is listening and He is faithful. Amen! 🙏🕊️🙌

[bojackson54]

Your Heart Needs Tending, Because What's Inside it Matters

People say. “be true to your heart.” But what if your heart has a problem? Hank Williams knew that people could lie, cheat, and keep secrets. But, he also knew that eventually what was in your heart would come out. His hit song from 1953 ( https://genius.com/Hank-williams-your-cheatin-heart-lyrics ) described the progression: “Your cheatin’ heart will pine some day, and crave the love you threw…

[coptorthodox]

But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 6:17-18

[compassionmattersmost]

The Heart of True Discipleship: Understanding Matthew 7:21-23

Introduction In today’s world, where outward appearances and superficial commitments can easily overshadow genuine devotion, the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:21-23 resonate with profound urgency. This passage challenges believers to reflect deeply on the nature of their faith and relationship with Christ. The Words of Jesus “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of…

[re4med]

Daily Prayer for June 6, 2024

Prayer: Grant, almighty God, a clear understanding of your divine will as you plainly demonstrate your power and might through all you have made. Grant, we plead with you to help all those made in your image to see the glory of your beloved Son as shown in your most holy Word. We ask for your glory to spread throughout all the earth and for the power of the hope of salvation to be told to all…

[martyschoenleber]

Christo-Centric Reflection on Psalm 24

Today we heard a message from one of our newly ordained pastors on Psalm 24. It was a good reminder that when we (Christians) read the psalms, we read through the lens of the New Testament, Christ, and the resurrection. We are built up in our most holy faith (Jude 1:20) on the foundation of the Old Testament Law and Prophets and the New Testament Apostles and prophets of which Christ is the…

[pastorjeremynorton]

Navigating Conflict through the Gospel Lens

Discover biblical principles for resolving conflicts inspired by 'The Peacemaker' by Ken Sands. Gain insights from Matthew 18:15-17, Philippians 2:3-4, and Galatians 6:1-2. #ConflictResolution #Peacemaking #BiblicalPrinciples

Finding the Way of Peace with Ken Sande’s ‘The Peacemaker” In his book, The Peacemaker, Ken Sande offers a comprehensive framework for navigating personal conflict, not just to seek resolution, but also to glorify God. Sande integrates practical wisdom with Scriptural principles, offering a roadmap that removes personal bias, restores relationships, and pursues reconciliation. Most importantly,…