#Matthew 7:7-11

[trueconservativepundit]

Trusting God Through Prayer

By Adrian Rogers “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good…

[reverendchrismullis-blog]

(Pastor Chris Mullis) My sermon Sunday was on Jesus words from the Sermon on the Mount:  Ask, Seek Knock.   Watch - https://youtu.be/T3BwT8Z6bZ0 Listen - https://on.soundcloud.com/jKt1n Read - https://www.pastorchrismullis.com/2024/02/ask-seek-knock.html

[martyschoenleber]

18 Verses, 1 Request

Read Psalm 88 Sometimes called the “saddest psalm in the psalter” Psalm 88 is a psalm of deepest despair. But it is despair out of which there is a beam of hope shining brightly in the midst of its gloom. The English Standard editors supply the following heading:  I Cry Out Day and Night Before You The NASB95 editors supply the following title to it: A Petition to be Saved from Death Each group…

[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.

[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."

[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…

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Sv. Matejs 7:11 Ja tad jūs, kas esat ļauni, protat saviem bērniem dot labas dāvanas, cik daudz vairāk jūsu Tēvs, kas debesīs, dos labu tiem, kas Viņu lūdz!

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! — Matthew 7:11 | Latvian New Testament (LAT-NT) and New Kings James Version (NKJV) Latvian New Testament -- The electronic edition comes from Sergej A. Fedosov's Slavic Bible for Windows and The Holy Bible: New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. All rights reserved Cross References: Psalm 84:11; Isaiah 63:7; Matthew 7:10; Matthew 23:9; Luke 11:13; Romans 8:32; James 1:17

[walkswithmyfather]

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:16

“In all circumstances part 1: trust in God's character” By Antique Candle Co.:

“Why is it that we most often seek the Lord during the valleys of life? We know from His Word that He wants us to seek Him in every season. During the peaks, with moments of great joy and celebration; during the valleys, in times of worry and uncertainty. Not only does He desire His children to seek Him out, but He calls us to be faithful in all circumstances.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding...” —Proverbs 3:5

Trusting in the Lord's character allows us to find hope in every situation. It's not just about trusting God to get us through the difficult moments, but fully trusting in who He is, which extends to every moment of life.

So what is God's character? Many things. God cannot be compared to anything else in all creation. He created all things. Therefore, there are some attributes of Christ we can and cannot understand. We can't understand being 'unchanging' or 'all-knowing' ourselves because, as we are finite beings, we are neither. However, His Word tells us these truths about Him so that we may trust the characteristics that are unique to God alone. We can see and acknowledge the truth of His character in the Word and in our own lives.

GOD IS UNCHANGING:

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” —Hebrews 13:8

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” —James 1:17

GOD IS FAITHFUL:

“...if we are faithless, he remains faithful—for he cannot deny himself.” —2 Timothy 2:13

“The Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever and his faithfulness to all generations.” —Psalm 100:5

GOD IS ALL-KNOWING:

“He who planted the ear, does he not hear? He who formed the eye, does he not see? He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke? He who teaches man knowledge—the Lord—knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath.” —Psalm 94:9

GOD IS SOVEREIGN:

“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” —Romans 11:36

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight.” —Ephesians 1:7-8

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” —Romans 8:28

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” —Matthew 24:14

Place your trust in a God who is unchanging, faithful, all-knowing, sovereign, and so much more. In all circumstances, His character is something that will never fail.”

[Read the whole of this encouraging Blog post here.]

[jolikmc]

Matthew Kane "Zak McKracken Theme" (original 1987 recording) Zak McKracken and the Alien Mindbenders (1987) LucasArts Entertainment Company, LLC

[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.

[touchofgoddotworld]

Knowing the Father’s Heart Removes Doubt and Unbelief (275) – December 7 2024

Choose your Podcast App to Play this episode It is the Lord’s desire, His Will, that you would experience what He has already promised you in His Word. That you would experience Him, to come to Know Him, to remain in divine health, to have your soul prospering amongst other promises.  God didn’t give us all an equal measure of faith just so that we could believe in His Son and receive eternal…

[martyschoenleber]

Destroying Our Own Lives

Today was a good reading day. Two books, besides my Bible were on my docket, a novel, Anna Karenina by Tolstoy and What Jesus Demands from the World, by John Piper. Below are two passages, one from each that I think illumine one another. The first one is from Tolstoy. It comes from part two, chapter 11, p.160. Without ever describing the lurid details, Tolstoy makes it clear that Vronsky, who has…

[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…

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Pssst! Did you know there are a bunch of MCYT Communities on Tumblr? Not seeing the one you'd like? Be the change you wish to see in the world. Create your own here.

[bojackson54]

Don't Just Be Thankful. Be "Thanks Full" As Well!

Really, EVERY Day is Thanksgiving There’s a difference between “Thankful” and “Thank-full-ness”… Today is a great day to reflect on what you are thankful for, but it is even more than that.“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1 NIV) You’ll notice that this verse from the Psalms is exactly like the verse from Chronicles in yesterday’s devotion. It’s a…

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

A Golden Treasury for the Children of God

by Carl Heinrich von Bogatzky

Thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever, Amen. - Matthew 6:13

They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, and honour, and power. - Revelation 4:10-11

One that is really poor in spirit, though he has practised the duties of the Christian life ever so long, and so well, always thinks himself to have received but a very little portion of Christ, and the work of sanctification hardly begun in his soul. So far is he from believing he has already attained to it, that after all his best actions, he counts himself not worthy to be called by the name of a grateful son; he is never pleased with himself. No degree of holiness will satisfy his soul. He seeks and finds no rest or comfort, but in the infinite mercy of God, and in the pardon of his sins by faith; though he does not divide Christ, but receives him in all his offices, and gives himself entirely up to him without reserve, to be more and more sanctified and perfected. And in this state he is safe indeed, he is prepared for death, and has no reason to be anxiously troubled for higher degrees of sanctification. Death might come upon him before he arrived to it; and even his very best actions, without a sense of God’s forgiveness, would not support and comfort him in death.

All the assembling saints around Fall worshipping before the Lamb, And in new songs of gospel sound, Address their honours to his name.