#grace magnifies Christ

[thinkingonscripture]

Prioritizing God’s Call Over Self

The Bible reveals that some things are more important than life itself. For the apostle Paul, his call to ministry was the most important thing to him. When speaking to the Elders at Ephesus, Paul said, “I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of…

[bylagunabay]

Miss B Converted

@BreeSolstad

HAPPY NEW YEAR

I have decided to quit sex work.  To repent of my innumerable sins.  To give up my life of sin, wealth, vice and vain self-obsession. 

I recently traveled around Europe and spent a great deal of time in Rome and Assisi.  While in those two particular cities, I had what can only be described as a life-altering conversion.

This is a humbling experience and one that I know may be mocked  or questioned by many.  I am giving up all my income and turning my life over to Christ. I am leaving behind my life of rampant sin, vice, pride, debauchery, vanity and lies to—with God’s grace—live a life of truth, beauty, obedience to God’s divine will, virtue and humility. 

I have been going through RCIA since the autumn and will be officially joining the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil in late March.

Thank you, Jesus, for not giving up on such a wretched sinner. Thank you Blessed Mary, Mother of God, for your immense love and consolation.

God’s forgiveness and mercy is real.  If someone as broken and sinful as me can be redeemed and converted, there is no doubt anyone reading this can also be saved by His divine mercy.

The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. And my soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden.

A Happy New Year to you all and a blessed Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.

[jesushub]

“(...) Such a fulness of grace is there in Christ, that from it we may all receive Christ’s great favour to this woman. He did not suspend (as he might have done) his healing influences, but suffered this bashful patient to steal a cure unknown to any one else, though she could not think to do it unknown to him. And now she was well content to be gone, for she had what she came for, but Christ was not willing to let he to so; he will not only have his power magnified in her cure, but his grace magnified in her comfort and commendation: the triumphs of her faith must be to her praise and honour. He turned about to see for her (v. 22), and soon discovered her.” Matthew Henry’s commentary on Matthew 9:20-25

The Chosen S03E05

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

by Wilhelmus à Brakel

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him” (Ps 2:12). In the Lord Jesus everything is to be found which can bring about rest. He is all-sufficient, omnipotent, good, faithful, and true. To trust in Him is to magnify Jesus in all His perfections. For such there are glorious promises.

In the first volume of The Christian’s Reasonable Service, Wilhelmus à Brakel explains Christ’s office as King as the Mediator of the Covenant of Grace. Christ’s perfection and fulfillment of these roles has implications that the believer can never ignore:

“The kingly office is the third office of Christ. A king is a person in whom alone the supreme authority over a nation is vested. Thus, the Lord Jesus is King, and none but…

[bibleversegarden]

Daily Growing in the Lord Our God

He who made us and redeemed us with His precious blood, desires to be formed in us, and have us grow in the knowledge of Him, in whom we live, and move and have our being, the Creator of all things visible and invisible, the Lord God Almighty. He wants us to bud, blossom and fill the whole earth with His fruits, bringing glory and honor to His name. The Lord be glorified, the Lord be magnified, the Lord be exalted!

"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men." (Luke 2:52)

"And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love." (Ephesians 4:11-16)

"As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving." (Colossians 2:6-7)

"Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious." (1 Peter 2:1-3)

"Everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:13-14)

"I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase." (1 Corinthians 3:6-7)

"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." (Philippians 1:9-11)

"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord." (2 Corinthians 3:18) 

"Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen." (2 Peter 3:18)

- A Walk In The Garden Devotions

[walkingthroughthisworld]

“And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” (ESV)

John Gill on Hebrews 9:27-28:

And as it is appointed unto men once to die

Not a moral, or what is commonly called a spiritual death, nor an eternal one, but a corporeal one; which does not arise from the constitution of nature, but from the sin of man, and God's decree on account of it; by which it is fixed that men shall die, and how long they shall live, and when they shall die; so that they cannot die sooner nor later; all things antecedent to death, which lead on to it, and issue in it, are appointed by God, and so is death itself, with all its circumstances; men's days can neither be lengthened nor shortened, either by Christ himself, or others: and this statute and appointment of God concerns men, not angels, and reaches to all men, wicked and righteous; and though there have been some exceptions, as Enoch and Elijah; and all will not sleep, or die, some will be found alive at Christ's appearing; yet such will undergo a change which is equivalent to death, as Enoch and Elijah have done: and generally speaking men die but once; it is not usual for men to die, and live again, and then die again; there have been some extraordinary instances of this kind, but they are rare; it is the statute law of heaven in common for men to die and that but once; so Cicero the Heathen says, "omnibus definitam esse mortem" (death is certain for all): Christ died once, he will die no more; and it is the comfort of the saints, that though they die the first death, they shall not be hurt of the second death; and the consideration of this decree should excite to diligence and industry: death is certain to God, but uncertain to us, as to the time, nor should we curiously inquire into it, but patiently wait for it, and quietly submit unto it:

but after this the judgment;

the last and general judgment, which will reach to all men, quick and dead, righteous and wicked, and in which Christ will be Judge. There is a particular judgment which is immediately after death; by virtue of which, the souls of men are condemned to their proper state of happiness or woe; and there is an universal judgment, which will be after the resurrection of the dead, and is called eternal judgment, and to come; this is appointed by God, though the time when is unknown to men; yet nothing is more certain, and it will be a righteous one.

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many

As man dies but once, Christ was offered but once, or he suffered and died but once; and that was not on his own account, or for his own sins, "but to bear the sins of many": not of angels but of men, and these not a few, but "many"; which is said to magnify the grace of God, to exalt the satisfaction and righteousness of Christ, and to encourage souls to hope in him: hence many are brought to believe in him, and many are justified by him, have their sins forgiven them, and are glorified; though Christ bore not the sins of all men; for as all men have not faith, all are not justified, pardoned, and saved: what he bore were "sins"; all kind of sin, every act of sin, and all that belongs to it; its filth, guilt, and punishment, even the iniquity of all his people; which must be a prodigious weight, and than which nothing could be more nauseous: his bearing them supposes they were upon him, though not in him, imputed, though not inherent; that he did not sink under them; that he made an entire satisfaction for them, and bore them wholly away, both from the persons of his people, and from the sight of justice. The way in which he came to bear them was this; he became a surety for all the elect; his Father imputed to him all their sins, and he voluntarily took them upon himself; where justice found them, and demanded satisfaction of him for them, and he gave it; which is an instance both of his great love, and of his great strength: and unto them that look for him: with affection, faith and patience:

shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation;

this is to be understood of Christ's visible and personal appearance on earth, which will be a glorious one; he will appear in his own glory, and in his Father's glory, and in the glory of the holy angels, and in the glory of his power, to the joy of saints, and to the terror of the wicked; for every eye shall see him: and this is said to be "the second time"; that is, that he appears on earth, and personally; for though he often appears to his people, it is in a spiritual way; and though he appeared to Stephen and to Paul, yet not on earth, but in heaven; and this is called the second time, with reference to his first appearance in human nature at his incarnation, and after that he ascended to heaven; and as this will be the second, it will be the last: the manner in which he will appear, will be, "without sin"; without sin itself; without any thing like it: without any infirmities, which though not sinful are the effects of sin; without sin imputed to him, with which he appeared before; without being a sacrifice for sin; and without sin upon his people that come with him, or he shall meet whom he shall raise, or change, and take to himself: and the end of his appearance with respect to them, will be "unto salvation"; the end of his first appearance was to obtain salvation for his people, and he has obtained it, and there is a comfortable application of it made unto them by the Spirit of God; but the full possession of it will be hereafter, and into this will Christ put them, when he shall appear

[traumacatholic]

I know you’re going through a lot right now and I feel so ashamed for asking for prayers, but I desperately need it. I live in Canada and the prices are insane. It is impossible to live of one income. Also, getting a job is so hard right now. Can you please pray that I can move out and live alone. I find it so hard to leave my bed and get a job, but I want to leave the abusive house I live in. 24/7 they torment me and then call me ungrateful. I hate it here. Please pray for a miracle, I can’t do this anymore. I need to leave, but I feel so numb and have no support system anywhere.

Please, don't ever feel ashamed to ask for prayers or any kind of help. There is nothing shameful about asking for help or prayers, even if you feel like the person you're asking prayers or help from is going through a lot. Of course, I will keep you in my prayers.

Some prayers you might find comforting are under the Read More. I would recommend picking one (or as many as you think you can handle) and praying it morning and night, and whenever else you need it.

A Prayer in Time of Need

Almighty God, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, come to my help and deliver me from this difficulty that besets me. I believe Lord, that all trials of life are under Your care and that all things work for the good of those who love You. Take away from me fear, anxiety and distress. Help me to face and endure my difficulty with faith, courage and wisdom.

Grant that this trial may bring me closer to You for You are my rock and refuge, my comfort and hope, my delight and joy. I trust in Your love and compassion. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Prayer of Saint Bishop Nikolaj (Velimirovic) to the Most-Holy Theotokos

Waves of passion disturb my spirit, great sadness and anguish have overwhelmed my soul. Embalm my soul with Thy Son's peace, O Most Holy One, and by His Grace drive away every doubt and despair. Calm the storm of my sins that, like a fiery worm, burn me, and quench its flame. Fill my heart with joy, O Most Pure One, and disperse the fog of my iniquities before me, for it confuses me. Illumine me with the light of Thy Son. Helpless is my soul, and everything is cumbersome, even prayer. Here I am, cold as a stone, my lips whispering prayers, while my heart remains immovable, for it is smothered in anguish. Melt the ice which envelops my soul and warm my heart with Thy love.

I rely not on human protection, but fall down before Thee, O Most Pure Sovereign Mother of God; reject me not, but hearken unto the prayer of Thy servant. Sadness has overcome me; I can endure the demonic attack no more. I have no protection; there is no shelter for me, and in this battle I am ever being wounded. I have no consolation, but in Thee, O Holy Sovereign. O Hope and Protection of all who believe, reject not my prayer.

O Most Holy Mother of Christ, Most Pure, Most Blessed Theotokos, Satan is pounding at me like the waves of the sea against a ship, pursuing me by day and tormenting me at night. I have no peace; turbulent is my soul, my spirit trembles. Hearken, O Most Holy One and help me. Intercede before the dear Lord that He may have mercy on me and forgive the sins I have committed. O Most Holy Mother of Jesus, Thy grace is great, and the mightiest opponent to the powers of Hades. Thou art able to save even the greatest of sinners who, having been cast into the depths of hell by unclean powers, should call upon Thee. So too, save me, for lo, Satan will have me stumble and will destroy my faith, but I trust in the Lord. I magnify Thee, Who art more holy than the Cherubim and the Seraphim.

Amen.

By Father Arseny, an Orthodox priest held prisoner in a Soviet Gulag

O my beloved Queen, my hope, O Mother of God, protector of orphans and protector of those who are hurt, the savior of those who perish and the consolation of all those who are in distress, thou seest my misery, thou seest my sorrow and my loneliness. Help me—I am powerless; give me strength. Thou knowest what I suffer, thou knowest my grief: Lend me thy hand, for who else can be my hope but thee, my protector and my intercessor before God? I have sinned before thee and before all people. Be my Mother, my consoler, my helper. Protect me and save me, chase grief away from me, chase my lowness of heart and my despondency. Help me, O Mother of my God!

Prayer for Mental Health

O Master, Lord my God, in Whose hands is my destiny: Help me according to Thy mercy, and leave me not to perish in my transgressions, nor allow me to follow them who place desires of the flesh over those of the spirit. I am Thy creation; disdain not the work of Thy hands. Turn not away; be compassionate and humiliate me not, neither scorn me, O Lord, as I am weak. I have fled unto Thee as my Protector and God. Heal my soul, for I have sinned against Thee. Save me for Thy mercy's sake, for I have cleaved unto Thee from my youth; let me who seeks Thee not be put to shame by being rejected by Thee for mine unclean actions, unseemly thoughts, and unprofitable remembrances. Drive away from me every filthy thing and excess of evil. For Thou alone art holy, alone mighty, and alone immortal, in all things having unexcelled might, which, through Thee, is given to all that strive against the devil and the might of his armies. For unto Thee is due all glory, honor and worship: To the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Prayer to Saint Brigid of Ireland

Saint Brigid, You were a woman of peace. You brought harmony where there was conflict. You brought light to the darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled and anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. Brigid you were a voice for the wounded and the weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit.

Prayer to Saint Dymphna

Good Saint Dymphna, great wonder-worker in every affliction of mind and body, I humbly implore your powerful intercession with Jesus through Mary, the Health of the Sick, in my present need. (Mention it.) Saint Dymphna, martyr of purity, patroness of those who suffer with nervous and mental afflictions, beloved child of Jesus and Mary, pray to Them for me and obtain my request.

(Pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one Glory Be.)

Saint Dymphna, Virgin and Martyr, pray for us.

[eternal-echoes]

"Sacred Scripture teaches the human family what the experience of the ages confirms: that while human progress is a great advantage to man, it brings with it a strong temptation. For when the order of values is jumbled and bad is mixed with the good, individuals and groups pay heed solely to their own interests, and not to those of others. Thus it happens that the world ceases to be a place of true brotherhood. In our own day, the magnified power of humanity threatens to destroy the race itself.

For a monumental struggle against the powers of darkness pervades the whole history of man. The battle was joined from the very origins of the world and will continue until the last day, as the Lord has attested.(8) Caught in this conflict, man is obliged to wrestle constantly if he is to cling to what is good, nor can he achieve his own integrity without great efforts and the help of God's grace.

That is why Christ's Church, trusting in the design of the Creator, acknowledges that human progress can serve man's true happiness, yet she cannot help echoing the Apostle's warning: "Be not conformed to this world" (Rom. 12:2). Here by the world is meant that spirit of vanity and malice which transforms into an instrument of sin those human energies intended for the service of God and man.

Hence if anyone wants to know how this unhappy situation can be overcome, Christians will tell him that all human activity, constantly imperiled by man's pride and deranged self-love, must be purified and perfected by the power of Christ's cross and resurrection. For redeemed by Christ and made a new creature in the Holy Spirit, man is able to love the things themselves created by God, and ought to do so. He can receive them from God and respect and reverence them as flowing constantly from the hand of God. Grateful to his Benefactor for these creatures, using and enjoying them in detachment and liberty of spirit, man is led forward into a true possession of them, as having nothing, yet possessing all things.(9) "All are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's" (1 Cor. 3:22-23)."

-Gaudium et Spes, PASTORAL CONSTITUTION ON THE CHURCH IN THE MODERN WORLD

[thecatholicbozo]

"The most devout King David danced before the ark of God with all his might (2 Kings 6:14), commemorating the benefits bestowed in times past on the fathers. He made musical instruments of sundry kinds; he published psalms, and appointed them to be sung with joy; he himself likewise often sang them, playing upon his harp, inspired with the grace of the Holy Ghost. He taught the people of Israel to praise God with their whole heart, and to join their voices in blessing and magnifying Him every day.

If such great devotion was then used, and such remembrance of the praise of God before the Ark of the Covenant, how great ought to be the reverence and devotion which I and all Christian people should have in the presence of this Sacrament, and in receiving the most excellent Body of Christ!"

-Thomas a Kempis, Imitation of Christ

[versegpt]

Solus Christus: John 1:1-3

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.” — John 1:1-3 (NASB1995)

#Grace

This passage reveals the profound grace of God displayed in the person of Christ. Jesus, the Word, was not a created being but existed eternally with the Father, demonstrating His divine nature. Through Him, everything came into existence. The grace of God is vividly shown here: the Creator of all entered His own creation to redeem it. This truth assures us that the One who made all things holds the power to restore all things, including our broken lives, by His sovereign grace.

#Purpose

The apostle John introduces Jesus as the "Word" (Greek: Logos), highlighting His role as God’s self-revelation. John’s purpose is to establish Jesus’ deity, eternal nature, and role as Creator. By starting with creation, the Gospel ties Christ to the grand story of redemption that spans all Scripture. For believers, the purpose is clear: to lead us to worship Jesus as the eternal God, Creator, and Redeemer, and to inspire trust in Him as the source of all life and purpose.

#Truth

This passage affirms the eternal existence of Jesus and His oneness with God. It declares that Jesus is the Creator through whom all things were made, directly countering any claim that diminishes His divinity or authority. This truth is foundational to the Christian faith: Jesus is not merely a messenger or a prophet but is God Himself. As such, He is the ultimate revelation of God’s nature and the central figure in the Gospel.

#Jesus

John 1:1-3 magnifies Jesus as the eternal Logos—God’s Word, active in creation, redemption, and sustaining the universe. This passage calls us to marvel at His majesty: Jesus was not only with God but is God. His identity as Creator underscores His authority and sufficiency. Everything begins and ends with Christ, affirming that salvation is found in Him alone (Solus Christus). In Jesus, we see the fullness of God’s glory and power made accessible to us in love.

Reflection

John begins his Gospel by pointing to Jesus as eternal, divine, and essential for life itself. As we reflect on these verses, let us stand in awe of Christ’s sufficiency and supremacy. He is the foundation of all things—the One through whom all life and hope flow. Solus Christus! In Him alone, we find everything we need for our faith, purpose, and eternity.

[elleavated]

The book of 2 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. It addresses various themes, including suffering, comfort, reconciliation, and the nature of true ministry. Here are some key points and insights from this epistle:

1. **Affliction and Comfort**: Paul begins by discussing the comfort he has received from God in his afflictions, emphasizing that this comfort enables him to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). He highlights the reality of suffering in the Christian life but reassures believers of God's presence and support.

2. **The Nature of Ministry**: Paul defends his apostolic authority and the integrity of his ministry. He contrasts the old covenant, which brought death, with the new covenant of the Spirit, which brings life (2 Corinthians 3:6). He emphasizes that true ministry is characterized by sincerity and reliance on God's power rather than human strength.

3. **Reconciliation**: A significant theme in 2 Corinthians is reconciliation. Paul speaks of the ministry of reconciliation that believers have through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). He urges the Corinthians to be reconciled to God and to one another, highlighting the importance of unity in the body of Christ.

4. **Generosity and Giving**: In chapters 8 and 9, Paul encourages the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving. He uses the example of the Macedonian churches, who gave generously despite their own poverty, to inspire the Corinthians to contribute to the needs of the saints (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). He emphasizes that God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).

5. **Paul's Defense of His Apostolic Authority**: Throughout the letter, Paul defends his authority as an apostle against false teachers and critics. He shares his own experiences of suffering and hardship to demonstrate the authenticity of his ministry (2 Corinthians 11:23-27).

6. **Strength in Weakness**: Paul famously writes about his "thorn in the flesh," a persistent struggle that he asked God to remove. God’s response was, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). This teaches that God's strength is magnified in our weaknesses.

### Reflection:

2 Corinthians offers profound insights into the nature of Christian suffering, the importance of reconciliation, and the call to live generously. It encourages believers to rely on God's grace and strength in all circumstances.

If you’d like to discuss specific passages or themes from 2 Corinthians further, or explore how to apply its teachings in your life, I’m here to help!

[godslove]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠

The Greek word for those with the spiritual gift of teaching is didaskalos. From the root of this word we get our English word, “didactic.” The word didasko means to teach, instruct, instill doctrine, explain, and expound. Those with the spiritual gift of teaching love to study the Word of God for extended periods of time. They consume the Scriptures as food for their hearts, souls and minds with the expressed purpose of knowing Him and then making Him known to others. They want to know what God has revealed of Himself and what He requires of us as people created in His image. They take great joy and satisfaction in seeing others learn and apply the truth of God’s Word to their lives. They love to see how the Gospel is woven throughout the Scriptures and how it glorifies and magnifies Jesus Christ in the hearts and lives of those who love Him by grace.

The spiritual gift of teaching is one that carries a heavy responsibility in the church. In fact:

³ “My brothers, not many of you should become teachers. You know that we who teach will be judged more strictly than others.”

—James 3:1

Like every believer, teachers are to be stewards of every word that comes out of their mouths. But the greater responsibility to which they are called is to be stewards of the Word of God to His people. Teachers have been entrusted with the task of effectively communicating what the Bible says, what it means, and how we as followers of Jesus Christ are to apply it to our lives here and now.

The Holy Spirit gives certain people the spiritual gift of teaching so that they would help the church fulfill her ministry as “a pillar and buttress of the truth”

¹⁵ “Then, even if I cannot come soon, you will know about the things that people must do in the family of God. That family is the church of the living God, the support and foundation of the truth.”

—1 Timothy 3:15

Without this gift, the church would quickly fall into error and sin. Teachers are there to make sure that doesn’t happen. They hate when Scripture is abused and used out of context or with ill intent. They love the truth and speak the truth in love. They will never hide or withhold it. On the contrary, they desire to follow in the footsteps of Jesus who taught in the synagogues and in the Temple as well as anywhere the people were gathered. They are called to demonstrate God’s love while revealing His truth to the world without fear. The effect of their ministry is the upholding of God’s Word and the growth and maturity of His Bride until the day of His return.

¹¹ “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,”

—Ephesians 4:11

²⁸ And in the church God has given a place first to apostles, second to prophets, and third to teachers. Then God has given a place to those who do miracles, those who have gifts of healing, those who can help others, those who are able to lead, and those who can speak in different languages.”

—1 Corinthians 12:28

⁷ “If one has the gift of serving, he should serve. If one has the gift of teaching, he should teach.”

—Romans 12:7

[albertfinch]

REPENTING INTO THE HEAVENLY EXAMPLE

Hebrews 13:5 - "He has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”

When you fall don't waste your time trying to figure everything out. Your understanding will always be twisted when you are depressed and you will never see truth from that place.

Depression is the deception that comes from seeing the world from your perspective. Truth comes from seeing the world through Jesus' eyes where He sits at the right hand of the Father. Those who abide in His presence will say "the whole earth is filled with His glory."

When you fall short of the Lord's grace and sin entangles you, it is hard for you to come to Him. You must learn to always run to the Lord at such times, not away from Him.

Much of what many Believers experience is "false guilt" for things that have been forgiven of a long time ago. Give glory to God by magnifying the Blood of Jesus and the power that abides here. You are never out of right standing with God - all of your sins are forgiven (past, present, and future) and there is nothing that can hinder you from actively bearing fruit that remains for God’s Kingdom. As you repent and move into the Christ example of what you should have done, receive His forgiveness, as you discover and move into God’s purpose for your life.

You must not only seek His presence, but you must abide in His presence continually as you walk in the Spirit as you go throughout the day.

ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

[orthodoxadventure]

Prayer against Passions, Torments, Despair and Distress

Prayer of Saint Bishop Nikolaj (Velimirovic) to the Most-Holy Theotokos

Waves of passion disturb my spirit, great sadness and anguish have overwhelmed my soul. Embalm my soul with Thy Son's peace, O Most Holy One, and by His Grace drive away every doubt and despair. Calm the storm of my sins that, like a fiery worm, burn me, and quench its flame. Fill my heart with joy, O Most Pure One, and disperse the fog of my iniquities before me, for it confuses me. Illumine me with the light of Thy Son. Helpless is my soul, and everything is cumbersome, even prayer. Here I am, cold as a stone, my lips whispering prayers, while my heart remains immovable, for it is smothered in anguish. Melt the ice which envelops my soul and warm my heart with Thy love.

I rely not on human protection, but fall down before Thee, O Most Pure Sovereign Mother of God; reject me not, but hearken unto the prayer of Thy servant. Sadness has overcome me; I can endure the demonic attack no more. I have no protection; there is no shelter for this poor man, and in this battle I am ever being wounded. I have no consolation, but in Thee, O Holy Sovereign. O Hope and Protection of all who believe, reject not my prayer.

O Most Holy Mother of Christ, Most Pure, Most Blessed Theotokos, Satan is pounding at me like the waves of the sea against a ship, pursuing me by day and tormenting me at night. I have no peace; turbulent is my soul, my spirit trembles. Hearken, O Most Holy One and help me. Intercede before the dear Lord that He may have mercy on me and forgive the sins I have committed. O Most Holy Mother of Jesus, Thy grace is great, and the mightiest opponent to the powers of Hades. Thou art able to save even the greatest of sinners who, having been cast into the depths of hell by unclean powers, should call upon Thee. So too, save me, for lo, Satan will have me stumble and will destroy my faith, but I trust in the Lord. I magnify Thee, Who art more holy than the Cherubim and the Seraphim.

Amen.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

"You and I must never look at our past lives; we must never look at any sin in our past life in any way except that which leads us to praise God and to magnify His grace in Christ Jesus… When Paul looks at the past and sees his sin he does not stay in a corner and say, “I am not fit to be a Christian, I have done such terrible things.” Not at all. What it does to him, its effect upon him, is to make him praise God. He glories in grace and says, “And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.” – Martyn Lloyd-Jones

[hiswordsarekisses]

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John‬ ‭1‬:‭14

“No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.” John‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬

“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,” Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭9‬

““For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭8‬-‭9‬

Jesus said to The Father: “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” John‬ ‭17‬:‭17‬

“I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world.” John‬ ‭17‬:‭14‬

“I will worship toward Your holy temple and praise Your name for Your loving-kindness and for Your truth and faithfulness;

for You have exalted above all else Your name and Your word

and You have magnified Your word above all Your name!”

Psalm‬ ‭138‬:‭2‬