Month: May 2024

21
May
2024
Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Life can be a roller-coaster, filled with ups and downs that leave us feeling stressed and anxious. In those moments, it’s easy to forget where true peace resides. But Psalm 27:4 offers a beautiful reminder:

“One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and seek him in his temple.”

Psalm 27:4

What Does “Dwelling in the House of the Lord” Mean?

The “house of the Lord” doesn’t necessarily refer to a physical building, although it can include spending time in a church or place of worship; or even a quiet place outside.

Here, it signifies a deeper connection with God. It’s about cultivating a constant awareness of His presence in our lives.

How Can We Dwell in God’s Presence?

Here are some ways to cultivate that peace-filled dwelling place:

  • Prayer: Regularly talking to God, expressing your gratitude, worries, and desires, strengthens your relationship with Him.
  • Bible Study: Immersing yourself in God’s word, allows you to understand His character and His ways, bringing comfort and guidance.
  • Meditation: Taking time to quiet your mind and focus on God’s presence can be incredibly calming.
  • Worship: Singing, listening to praise music, or simply reflecting on God’s greatness fosters a sense of awe and reverence.

Gazing on God’s Beauty

The verse also mentions “gazing on the beauty of the Lord.”

This isn’t about a physical appearance, but rather appreciating God’s character. Reflect on His love, faithfulness, power, and goodness.

Let these qualities fill your heart with awe and peace.

Seeking Him Continuously

“Seeking him in his temple” refers to a continual pursuit of God. It’s about incorporating Him into every aspect of your life, not just during designated prayer times. Remember; you are the temple of God!

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Peace in the Midst of Chaos

By dwelling in God’s presence, gazing on His beauty, and seeking Him constantly, you create a haven of peace within yourself, even when the world around you feels chaotic.

Make this verse a guiding light in your life, and allow God’s peace to wash over you.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Joy, Trust
20
May
2024
True Beauty: Radiates From Within

True Beauty: Radiates From Within

Society screams that beauty is all about what you look like.

Airbrushed models and carefully curated news feeds, bombard us with a worldly definition. But is that all there is? Proverbs 31:30 reveals something different:

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

Proverbs 31:30

More Than Skin Deep

We’re bombarded with messages telling us to chase the latest trends, buy expensive products, or even go have surgery to achieve some unrealistic ideal.

But true beauty isn’t about the outside; it’s about what shines from within. It’s a kind of beauty that doesn’t fade with time or circumstances.

The Bible offers a refreshing perspective. True beauty is about who you are on the inside, not some fleeting image.

It’s about your character, your spirit, and your connection to something bigger than yourself.

Power of Fearing God

The verse talks about fearing the Lord. Now, don’t confuse this with dread or terror.

It’s more about awe and respect, recognizing God’s majesty, holiness, and power. It’s about trusting Him, loving Him, and wanting to live according to His will.

Fearing God is the foundation of true beauty because it aligns your heart with His purpose.

It shapes your choices and makes you more like Jesus; and empowers you to resist temptation and grow in righteousness.

This mindset fuels your desire to serve others and reflect God’s love in the world.

Praised by God and Others

“A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

This praise comes from God Himself. He delights in those who follow Him and keep His commands. He blesses, protects, and rewards them. He calls them His daughter, friend, and bride.

True beauty attracts praise from others too. People see the genuine kindness, strength, and joy that radiates from you.

Your spouse will cherish your loyalty and love, and your children will see your nurturing spirit and godly example.

Friends appreciate your support and encouragement. Neighbors value your kindness and honesty.

Cultivating True Beauty

This verse applies to everyone, not just women. Men, young people, old people, single or married – we can all cultivate the fear of the Lord and the beauty that flows from it. Here’s how:

  • Get to Know God: Read the Bible and let it shape your thinking.
  • Talk to God: Pray and listen for His guidance and correction.
  • Worship God: Express your gratitude, love, and devotion to Him.
  • Obey God: Live according to His will, surrendering your plans to Him.
  • Serve God and Others: Use your gifts and talents to bring glory to Him and help others.

As you do these things, an inner beauty blossoms.

You become more radiant in God’s eyes and in the eyes of those around you.

You’ll experience more joy, peace, and purpose. And you’ll reflect God’s beauty to the world, drawing others closer to Him.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Humility
19
May
2024
God’s Goodness: Beyond Anger and Judgment

God’s Goodness: Beyond Anger and Judgment

Nahum 1:2 – The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and vents his wrath against his enemies.

Have you ever read a Bible verse like this one, that kinda left you scratching your head? A verse that talks about God’s anger?

It can be tough to reconcile the idea of a loving God, with a jealous or angry one.

Good News: God’s Love is Real

The Bible overflows with God’s love for us. He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins, proving just how much He cares. (John 3:16)

He longs for a relationship with us, filled with joy, blessings, and His presence. He’s faithful and keeps His promises.

But Here’s the Thing: God is Also Just

God is perfectly holy and righteous too.

Sin and evil go against everything He stands for. He hates injustice and the suffering it causes. He’s not some indifferent observer; He’s actively involved, a God of justice and judgment.

Understanding God’s Anger

So, why the anger? God’s jealousy isn’t like petty human jealousy.

It’s a fierce defense of His glory and His name. His anger is a response to evil and the harm it inflicts on His creation and His people.

He’s not impulsive or vengeful, but sovereign, patient, and wise.

How This Impacts Us

This verse shouldn’t make us fearful, but grateful for God’s amazing grace.

He hasn’t punished us as our sins deserve. He offers forgiveness and welcomes us as His children.

This should also make us respectful and obedient. It’s a wake-up call to the seriousness of sin and the importance of turning away from it.

Putting It All Together

Here’s how this truth can be a guiding light in our lives:

  • Facing Troubles: When life throws punches, trust that God is in control. He’ll see you through and deliver you.
    • (Psalm 46:1) God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

  • Seeing Injustice: When you witness unfairness, pray for God to intervene and bring peace and justice.
    • (James 5:16) Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

  • Overcoming Temptation: When tempted, resist the devil and flee from sin. God is your protector and helper. (James 4:7)
    • Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

  • Seeking Forgiveness: When you mess up, confess and ask for forgiveness. He’s your Savior and healer. (1 John 1:9)
    •  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

  • Living for God: As you worship and serve Him, express your gratitude for His goodness and faithfulness. He’s your Lord and King. (Romans 12:1)
    • Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

God’s character isn’t a confusing puzzle. He is both loving and just. He’s not a tyrant, but a loving judge. He’s not distant, but a personal Father. He’s not a weak ally, but a strong and faithful friend.

Let’s rejoice in His goodness, with a healthy respect for His anger, and yes . . . His Wrath! Let’s love and obey Him, worshiping and serving Him with all our hearts. He deserves nothing less.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock
18
May
2024
Seeing Jesus: The Light of the World in His Miracles

Seeing Jesus: The Light of the World in His Miracles

Matthew 12:22 – Then they brought him a demon-possessed man who was blind and mute, and Jesus healed him, so that he could both talk and see.

Have you ever stopped to think about miracles? Those amazing events in the Bible that defy explanation?

They’re more than just cool stories. Miracles are signs from God, glimpses of something beyond our world, revealing His power, wisdom, love, and glory.

Miracles aren’t limited to the Bible. They’re not reserved for the privileged or super faithful. They can happen to anyone, anywhere, in the ordinary, everyday moments of life. They’re not about showing off, but about bringing glory to God and helping His people.

Jesus: The Ultimate Miracle

The Bible tells the story of Jesus, the ultimate miracle worker. He healed the sick, raised the dead, calmed storms, and even fed thousands with just a few loaves and fishes! (Matthew 12:22, Mark 6:45-52)

He did what no one else could, demonstrating God’s power and love for humanity.

But Jesus is more than just a miracle worker. He is the miracle himself. The fulfillment of God’s promises, the embodiment of God’s love, and the expression of God’s power. Jesus, the Son of God, lived a sinless life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose from the dead – the ultimate act of love and power. (John 1:5)

Seeing Jesus Everywhere

We see Jesus reflected in His miracles, of course, but also in His words, actions, and character. His compassion, mercy, grace, and truth shine through.

He is humble, obedient, faithful, and holy. Love, joy, peace, and hope radiate from Him.

The Scriptures, the gospel, the church, and even the world around us – they all point to Jesus.

Creation, history, prophecy, and fulfillment – they all whisper His story. From the Law and the Prophets to the Psalms and the Epistles, His presence is woven throughout.

Following the Light

So how do we experience this Jesus more fully?

By faith, by the Holy Spirit, by the Word of God, and by God’s grace. We follow Him by believing in Him, trusting Him, depending on Him, and obeying Him.

Our love, worship, service, and desire to glorify Him are expressions of following Him.

Following Jesus means imitating Him, learning from Him, listening to Him, and living by His example. It means repenting of our sins, receiving His forgiveness, living in the freedom He offers, and becoming His disciple.

It’s about joining His family, participating in His mission, and belonging to His kingdom.

As we follow Jesus, we bear fruit that reflects His character, share the gifts He’s given us, use our talents for His purposes, and fulfill His will. We become reflections of His light, walking in it, shining it brightly, and sharing it with the world; and YES, YOU WILL SEE MIRACLES TOO!

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith
17
May
2024
Cutting it Off: Dealing with Sin in Your Life

Cutting it Off: Dealing with Sin in Your Life

Sin. It’s a word that gets tossed around quite a bit, but what does it really mean? We all mess up sometimes, but sin is more than just making a mistake.

Sin is rebellion against God, a rejection of His love, and a departure from His plan for us. It’s like a virus that infects our thoughts, words, actions, and relationships.

It weighs us down, separates us from God, and leads to pain and suffering.

The good news? Sin doesn’t have to be the end of the story. There’s a solution, and it’s found not in ourselves, but in God. His love, mercy, grace, and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ offer forgiveness, cleansing, healing, and transformation.

Jesus: The Answer to Sin

The Bible tells us in Matthew 5:29 that Jesus said, “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.”

Now, He wasn’t literally telling us to mutilate ourselves! He was using a powerful metaphor to emphasize the seriousness of sin and the importance of dealing with it decisively.

Jesus is the one who came to save you from sin. He took your place, paid the price for your wrongdoings, and conquered death through His resurrection. He lives within you through the Holy Spirit, giving you the strength to overcome sin and follow Him.

What does it mean to “cut it off” as Jesus instructs?

We do make mistakes and sin; when that happens we MUST take action:

  • Repentance: Turning away from sin and turning back to God.
  • Confession: Admitting our sin to God and asking for forgiveness.
  • Renunciation: Rejecting sin and its power over us.
  • Removal: Avoiding situations or habits that lead us to temptation.
  • Replacement: Filling our lives with God’s truth, love, and righteousness.

We Can’t Do It Alone

Overcoming sin is a process, and you can’t do it on your own. You need God’s help through His grace, power, and presence.

The Holy Spirit convicts you of sin, guides you, and empowers you to make right choices. The Bible teaches about God and equips you to fight temptation.

The Christian community offers support, encouragement, and prayer.

Most importantly, you have the example of Jesus. He cut it off for us by His perfect obedience and sacrifice. He showed you how to overcome sin through love, faith, humility, and perseverance.

He offers you His grace, mercy, forgiveness, and a new life free from sin’s bondage.

So, when you feel stuck in sin, remember: there is hope! God offers forgiveness and the power to overcome. Turn to Him today, ask for His help, and experience the joy of freedom from sin.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline, Trust