What did Jesus mean when He said to not cast your pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6)?
Jesus said, “Do not cast your pearls before swine” in the Sermon on the Mount. Christ had just finished instructing the crowd on judgment and reproof: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7:1–2), and “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matthew 7:5). Then in verse 6, Christ tempers these admonitions and shows us the difference between “judgment” and “discernment.” We are not to be hypocritical judges, yet we must be able to discern the swine, lest we cast our pearls before them.
Before Jesus says, “Do not cast your pearls before swine,” He says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred.” An analogy mentioning dogs is also used in Proverbs: “As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly” (Proverbs 26:11). A dual reference to swine and dogs is also found in 2 Peter 2:22, “Of [false teachers] the proverbs are true: ‘A dog returns to its vomit,’ and, ‘A sow that is washed goes back to her wallowing in the mud.’” In His sermon, Jesus uses dogs and pigs as representative of those who would ridicule, reject, and blaspheme the gospel once it is presented to them. We are not to expose the gospel of Jesus Christ to those who have no other purpose than to trample it and return to their own evil ways. Repeatedly sharing the gospel with someone who continually scoffs and ridicules Christ is like casting pearls before swine. We can identify such people through discernment, which is given in some measure to all Christians (1 Corinthians 2:15–16).
The command not to cast your pearls before swine does not mean we refrain from preaching the gospel. Jesus Himself ate with and taught sinners and tax collectors (Matthew 9:10). In essence, the instruction in Matthew 7:6 is the same that Jesus gave to His apostles when He said, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town” (Matthew 10:14). We are to share the gospel, but, when it becomes apparent that the gospel is not welcome, we are to move on. We are responsible to share the good news; we are not responsible for people’s response to the good news. Pigs don’t appreciate pearls, and some people don’t appreciate what Christ has done for them. Our job is not to force conversions or cram the gospel down people’s throats; there’s no sense in preaching the value of pearls to swine. Jesus’ instruction to His apostles on how to handle rejection was to simply go elsewhere. There are other people who need to hear the gospel, and they are ready to hear it.
Jesus said, “Do not cast your pearls before swine” in the Sermon on the Mount. Christ had just finished instructing the crowd on judgment and reproof: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7:1–2), and “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matthew 7:5). Then in verse 6, Christ tempers these admonitions and shows us the difference between “judgment” and “discernment.” We are not to be hypocritical judges, yet we must be able to discern the swine, lest we cast our pearls before them.
Before Jesus says, “Do not cast your pearls before swine,” He says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred.” An analogy mentioning dogs is also used in Proverbs: “As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly” (Proverbs 26:11). A dual reference to swine and dogs is also found in 2 Peter 2:22, “Of [false teachers] the proverbs are true: ‘A dog returns to its vomit,’ and, ‘A sow that is washed goes back to her wallowing in the mud.’” In His sermon, Jesus uses dogs and pigs as representative of those who would ridicule, reject, and blaspheme the gospel once it is presented to them. We are not to expose the gospel of Jesus Christ to those who have no other purpose than to trample it and return to their own evil ways. Repeatedly sharing the gospel with someone who continually scoffs and ridicules Christ is like casting pearls before swine. We can identify such people through discernment, which is given in some measure to all Christians (1 Corinthians 2:15–16).
The command not to cast your pearls before swine does not mean we refrain from preaching the gospel. Jesus Himself ate with and taught sinners and tax collectors (Matthew 9:10). In essence, the instruction in Matthew 7:6 is the same that Jesus gave to His apostles when He said, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town” (Matthew 10:14). We are to share the gospel, but, when it becomes apparent that the gospel is not welcome, we are to move on. We are responsible to share the good news; we are not responsible for people’s response to the good news. Pigs don’t appreciate pearls, and some people don’t appreciate what Christ has done for them. Our job is not to force conversions or cram the gospel down people’s throats; there’s no sense in preaching the value of pearls to swine. Jesus’ instruction to His apostles on how to handle rejection was to simply go elsewhere. There are other people who need to hear the gospel, and they are ready to hear it.
Innocence Restored
“Then the Lord said to Joshua, “This day I have rolled away the reproach (derision, ridicule) of Egypt from you.” So the name of that place is called Gilgal (rolling) to this day.”.Joshua 5:9 (AMP)
After years of wandering in the wilderness, Joshua and the people of Israel were finally ready to enter their long-awaited promised land. It was time for them to step into the fulness of the blessing and conquer every enemy that opposed them. God, in His love and wisdom, knew that in order to secure their success, there first had to be a change of how they saw themselves. So He told them the shame of slavery that had robbed them of dignity and self-worth to dare to believe in Him, was being removed from them. Like a giant boulder keeping them bound in a tomb of hopelessness; He rolled their shame that was linked to centuries of slavery away that day. Shame keeps people bound to emotions caused by the consciousness of guilt and humiliation. These same feelings of shame fed and fueled the insecurity in the ten spies who initially scouted the land with Joshua and Caleb. They saw themselves as grasshoppers compared to their enemies, instead of seeing the One who was with them. Today, let the blood of Jesus wash away the shame of your past. Don’t allow it to keep you living in a defeated mindset. Instead, see yourself hidden in Him, and settle in your heart the truth that He has made you righteous. Because of Jesus, your shame has been rolled away and you are free to walk into the fullness of blessing with your innocence completely restored!
“Then the Lord said to Joshua, “This day I have rolled away the reproach (derision, ridicule) of Egypt from you.” So the name of that place is called Gilgal (rolling) to this day.”.Joshua 5:9 (AMP)
After years of wandering in the wilderness, Joshua and the people of Israel were finally ready to enter their long-awaited promised land. It was time for them to step into the fulness of the blessing and conquer every enemy that opposed them. God, in His love and wisdom, knew that in order to secure their success, there first had to be a change of how they saw themselves. So He told them the shame of slavery that had robbed them of dignity and self-worth to dare to believe in Him, was being removed from them. Like a giant boulder keeping them bound in a tomb of hopelessness; He rolled their shame that was linked to centuries of slavery away that day. Shame keeps people bound to emotions caused by the consciousness of guilt and humiliation. These same feelings of shame fed and fueled the insecurity in the ten spies who initially scouted the land with Joshua and Caleb. They saw themselves as grasshoppers compared to their enemies, instead of seeing the One who was with them. Today, let the blood of Jesus wash away the shame of your past. Don’t allow it to keep you living in a defeated mindset. Instead, see yourself hidden in Him, and settle in your heart the truth that He has made you righteous. Because of Jesus, your shame has been rolled away and you are free to walk into the fullness of blessing with your innocence completely restored!
Fear Not
“The fear of man brings a snare,But whoever trusts in and puts his confidence in the Lord will be exalted and safe.”. Proverbs 29:25 (AMP)
The nature of a trap is to ensnare and keep an object bound. This is what the fear of man will do. As children of God, we are called to live a life of faith, where there is only progression and increase in knowing Him and living out His divine purpose for our lives. He has equipped us with His presence and power to live out what is impossible in the natural. He has given us the mind of Christ - to think renewed, creative, faith filled thoughts that are His own! And He has given us a constant, full measure of His supernatural love that conquers all and never fails! The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom - it opens up for us a life of divine protection and provision, while we carry out His purpose. The moment we begin to listen to the opinions of people who don't live in this revelation - we enter dangerous territory. That's because their perspective will always be bound to the limitations of a natural reality that prevents them from experiencing the supernatural. We were never created to live subject to circumstances that are always subject to change, or spiritually short-sighted opinions that will keep us from living out God's purpose for us. So put an end to fearing man, and live to please God!
“The fear of man brings a snare,But whoever trusts in and puts his confidence in the Lord will be exalted and safe.”. Proverbs 29:25 (AMP)
The nature of a trap is to ensnare and keep an object bound. This is what the fear of man will do. As children of God, we are called to live a life of faith, where there is only progression and increase in knowing Him and living out His divine purpose for our lives. He has equipped us with His presence and power to live out what is impossible in the natural. He has given us the mind of Christ - to think renewed, creative, faith filled thoughts that are His own! And He has given us a constant, full measure of His supernatural love that conquers all and never fails! The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom - it opens up for us a life of divine protection and provision, while we carry out His purpose. The moment we begin to listen to the opinions of people who don't live in this revelation - we enter dangerous territory. That's because their perspective will always be bound to the limitations of a natural reality that prevents them from experiencing the supernatural. We were never created to live subject to circumstances that are always subject to change, or spiritually short-sighted opinions that will keep us from living out God's purpose for us. So put an end to fearing man, and live to please God!
The Word - a Firm Foundation
"And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV)
A solid foundation of the Word of God in our lives will determine our reaction and disposition to life and its circumstances. Think about the events that have taken the whole world by surprise of late. Every nation under the sun was shaken. The reaction of many Christians has been proof they never had the right foundation. Some were completely disillusioned and ran in stark terror to "isolate" themselves; while others looked to government leaders for help and guidance. The Bible says the Church is the authority of Jesus in the earth (Luke 10:19). It says the increase of God's kingdom rule and peace here will never end while we occupy earth (Isaiah 9:7). And Proverbs 4:18 declares that the path of the righteous shines brighter and brighter until it reaches its full strength and glory in the perfect day! The truth of the matter is no matter what evil lashes against this earth, God's children will always be triumphant and victorious, carrying His authority on this earth. The only thing holding us back from this reality is our ignorance to the truth of God's Word. Never underestimate the power and authority we carry while we are hidden in Christ Jesus and live rooted and grounded in His Word. Wake up to understand its importance in your life and let it set the standard of victory you are supposed to live in. Make God's Word the firm foundation of your life.
"And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV)
A solid foundation of the Word of God in our lives will determine our reaction and disposition to life and its circumstances. Think about the events that have taken the whole world by surprise of late. Every nation under the sun was shaken. The reaction of many Christians has been proof they never had the right foundation. Some were completely disillusioned and ran in stark terror to "isolate" themselves; while others looked to government leaders for help and guidance. The Bible says the Church is the authority of Jesus in the earth (Luke 10:19). It says the increase of God's kingdom rule and peace here will never end while we occupy earth (Isaiah 9:7). And Proverbs 4:18 declares that the path of the righteous shines brighter and brighter until it reaches its full strength and glory in the perfect day! The truth of the matter is no matter what evil lashes against this earth, God's children will always be triumphant and victorious, carrying His authority on this earth. The only thing holding us back from this reality is our ignorance to the truth of God's Word. Never underestimate the power and authority we carry while we are hidden in Christ Jesus and live rooted and grounded in His Word. Wake up to understand its importance in your life and let it set the standard of victory you are supposed to live in. Make God's Word the firm foundation of your life.
Forwarded from Save Daily Devotions for sharing.
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The Gift of Eternal Life!
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”. Romans 6:23 (AMP)
It's so important for us to realize the violent act that took place in the spiritual world when we surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and accepted His gift of eternal life. The book of Jude explains that we were literally snatched from the grasp of the devil and instantly transported from the kingdom of darkness and death into the kingdom of light and life. This is a gift so awesome and so significant! It has changed our course of destiny for eternity! In an instant everything changed. We were given a new identity, a new nature, a new family, a new home, a new authority, a new purpose, and a new inheritance! What's more, God Himself has chosen to live inside us, making us His dwelling place. In John17:3, Jesus said this is the gift of eternal life - to truly grasp experience and know the Person of the Father and Son, and the life lived inseparably with them. The life where God Himself fulfills His purpose in and through us until it is complete - enjoy this gift of eternal life!
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”. Romans 6:23 (AMP)
It's so important for us to realize the violent act that took place in the spiritual world when we surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and accepted His gift of eternal life. The book of Jude explains that we were literally snatched from the grasp of the devil and instantly transported from the kingdom of darkness and death into the kingdom of light and life. This is a gift so awesome and so significant! It has changed our course of destiny for eternity! In an instant everything changed. We were given a new identity, a new nature, a new family, a new home, a new authority, a new purpose, and a new inheritance! What's more, God Himself has chosen to live inside us, making us His dwelling place. In John17:3, Jesus said this is the gift of eternal life - to truly grasp experience and know the Person of the Father and Son, and the life lived inseparably with them. The life where God Himself fulfills His purpose in and through us until it is complete - enjoy this gift of eternal life!
Divine Treasure.
“In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge [regarding the word and purposes of God]. ”. Colossians 2:3.{AMP}
Divine wisdom for life and the means to understand and walk in it, is stored up and hidden in God; do you know what else is hidden in Him? Look at what Colossians 3:3 says, "For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God." We have the Spirit of wisdom within us, He is a part of who we are. So how do we get to tap into that eternal source of wisdom? The Bible says it comes to us through knowledge and enlightenment. In other words, we must become scholars of the One who dwells within us. Wisdom comes by knowledge, and knowledge comes through learning. When we learn about the Lord from His Word, through His Spirit making it alive to us - wisdom comes to us! We don't have to experience another day not knowing the answers, because they are hidden in us, in the Spirit of God.
“In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge [regarding the word and purposes of God]. ”. Colossians 2:3.{AMP}
Divine wisdom for life and the means to understand and walk in it, is stored up and hidden in God; do you know what else is hidden in Him? Look at what Colossians 3:3 says, "For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God." We have the Spirit of wisdom within us, He is a part of who we are. So how do we get to tap into that eternal source of wisdom? The Bible says it comes to us through knowledge and enlightenment. In other words, we must become scholars of the One who dwells within us. Wisdom comes by knowledge, and knowledge comes through learning. When we learn about the Lord from His Word, through His Spirit making it alive to us - wisdom comes to us! We don't have to experience another day not knowing the answers, because they are hidden in us, in the Spirit of God.
Your Vision
"For we walk by faith, not by sight."2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)
It's interesting that Paul considers "sight" to be the opposite of "faith". Where sight refers to our ability to behold the natural world, faith enables us to see into the realm of the spirit. This is where we see things from God's perspective. When we look at our circumstances, or even our future through natural eyes and understanding, we will always be limited. But when we look through the eyes of faith, we get to see the limitless possibilities God has made available to us, when we align ourselves with Him. As we open our hearts to know Him more and receive His love and wisdom, His Spirit births His vision inside us. We begin to see others and the world around us through His eyes. His plans, that He refuses to implement without us being in the centre of them, are far greater and above all we could ever imagine or dream on our own! So give yourself to seeing life in and through Him. Don't trust in your own understanding, but acknowledge Him as being your light and guide. Trust Him with all your heart and He will lead you into a life so full and worth living that you will never resort to seeing things from your own perspective again!
"For we walk by faith, not by sight."2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)
It's interesting that Paul considers "sight" to be the opposite of "faith". Where sight refers to our ability to behold the natural world, faith enables us to see into the realm of the spirit. This is where we see things from God's perspective. When we look at our circumstances, or even our future through natural eyes and understanding, we will always be limited. But when we look through the eyes of faith, we get to see the limitless possibilities God has made available to us, when we align ourselves with Him. As we open our hearts to know Him more and receive His love and wisdom, His Spirit births His vision inside us. We begin to see others and the world around us through His eyes. His plans, that He refuses to implement without us being in the centre of them, are far greater and above all we could ever imagine or dream on our own! So give yourself to seeing life in and through Him. Don't trust in your own understanding, but acknowledge Him as being your light and guide. Trust Him with all your heart and He will lead you into a life so full and worth living that you will never resort to seeing things from your own perspective again!
He always remain Faitfull.
“Then Mary said, “[a]Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel left her.”. Luke 1:38 (AMP)
The angel told young Mary she had found favour with God! She was chosen to become the mother of God's only begotten Son. Obviously, there was tremendous risk involved in carrying the Son of God into the world. The devil had been plotting His death since the day he was told Jesus would crush and destroy his work and power over mankind. Then there was the risk of shame and ruin to her reputation, not to mention abandonment if Joseph didn't believe her pregnancy was God's Own handiwork. And yet, without hesitation, Mary responded with a heart full of grateful faith! In spite of every obstacle and risk stacked against her, if this was God's will - she wanted to be right in the centre of it. Did she have the full plan laid out before her? Did she have the answers to the endless questions bombarding her mind? No; the angel didn't offer any insight in that regard. What she did know was that God believed in her and she trusted Him to be in every detail of the plan - for the rest of her life! And that trust proved to be well placed. Even after Jesus left the earth in person, God never stopped taking careful care of Mary. This is His nature... to all who dare to trust and obey Him in the face of inconvenience, great risk and imminent danger - He will always remain faithful!
“Then Mary said, “[a]Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel left her.”. Luke 1:38 (AMP)
The angel told young Mary she had found favour with God! She was chosen to become the mother of God's only begotten Son. Obviously, there was tremendous risk involved in carrying the Son of God into the world. The devil had been plotting His death since the day he was told Jesus would crush and destroy his work and power over mankind. Then there was the risk of shame and ruin to her reputation, not to mention abandonment if Joseph didn't believe her pregnancy was God's Own handiwork. And yet, without hesitation, Mary responded with a heart full of grateful faith! In spite of every obstacle and risk stacked against her, if this was God's will - she wanted to be right in the centre of it. Did she have the full plan laid out before her? Did she have the answers to the endless questions bombarding her mind? No; the angel didn't offer any insight in that regard. What she did know was that God believed in her and she trusted Him to be in every detail of the plan - for the rest of her life! And that trust proved to be well placed. Even after Jesus left the earth in person, God never stopped taking careful care of Mary. This is His nature... to all who dare to trust and obey Him in the face of inconvenience, great risk and imminent danger - He will always remain faithful!
LIVING CONNECTED TO GOD
Introduction
• One of the greatest privileges we have as believers is that we can enjoy a living relationship with God.
• Christianity is not simply about religion, rules, or traditions, it is about being connected to the living God.
• Through Jesus Christ, the barrier between God and man has been removed.
• We are no longer separated from Him; we have direct access into His presence.
• This connection is not something we earn, it is a gift of God's grace.
• Because we are connected to Him, we never have to face life alone.
• Whatever we may be facing, we have Someone we can turn to at any moment.
• The more we remain connected to God, the more we experience His life, His strength, and His peace.
1. JESUS MADE THE CONNECTION POSSIBLE
• Everything changed because of Jesus.
• Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way for us to come to the Father.
• Hebrews 10:19 'Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus...'
• Before Christ, access to God was limited.
• Today we can come boldly into His presence.
• We don't have to wonder if God will receive us - we are welcomed because of Jesus.
• Every blessing we enjoy begins with this wonderful truth: we have access to God.
2. WE CAN SPEAK TO GOD AT ANY TIME
• One of the greatest blessings of our relationship with God is that we can speak to Him whenever we need to.
• Prayer is not a religious exercise, it is a conversation with our Heavenly Father.
• Philippians 4:6 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.'
• We can bring every concern, every fear, every disappointment and every joy to Him.
• Nothing is too big for Him and nothing is too small for Him.
• God delights when His children come to Him.
• Never underestimate the power of prayer.
• It keeps our hearts connected to the One Who holds all things together.
3. GOD IS OUR CONSTANT HELP
• God never intended that we should face life in our own strength.
• He invites us to depend on Him.
• Psalm 46:1 'God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.'
• Psalm 121:1-2 'My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.'
• God is not a distant observer.
• He is a present help.
• He understands every challenge we face.
• When we feel weak, He gives strength.
• When we don't know what to do, He gives wisdom.
• Because we are connected to Him, His help is always available.
4. GOD IS OUR DELIVERER
• Throughout Scripture we see God rescuing His people.
• He delights in bringing freedom where people are bound.
• Psalm 34:4 'I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.'
• Psalm 107:6 'Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress.'
• Sometimes God changes our circumstances.
• Sometimes He changes us in the middle of our circumstances.
• Either way, He is our Deliverer.
• Whatever has been holding you back, God is able to bring you through.
5. GOD BRINGS HEALING
• God is concerned with every part of our lives.
• He brings healing to our bodies, our hearts, our minds and our souls.
• Psalm 103:2-3 'Forget not all His benefits... Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases.'
• Psalm 30:2 'O LORD my God, I cried out to You, and You healed me.'
• Sometimes healing comes instantly.
• Sometimes it comes as God gently restores us over time.
• Never stop believing that God is able to heal and restore.
• His heart is always towards bringing life.
6. NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US FROM HIS LOVE
• One of the greatest assurances we have is that God's love never changes.
• His love is not based on our performance.
• It is rooted in His character.
Introduction
• One of the greatest privileges we have as believers is that we can enjoy a living relationship with God.
• Christianity is not simply about religion, rules, or traditions, it is about being connected to the living God.
• Through Jesus Christ, the barrier between God and man has been removed.
• We are no longer separated from Him; we have direct access into His presence.
• This connection is not something we earn, it is a gift of God's grace.
• Because we are connected to Him, we never have to face life alone.
• Whatever we may be facing, we have Someone we can turn to at any moment.
• The more we remain connected to God, the more we experience His life, His strength, and His peace.
1. JESUS MADE THE CONNECTION POSSIBLE
• Everything changed because of Jesus.
• Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way for us to come to the Father.
• Hebrews 10:19 'Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus...'
• Before Christ, access to God was limited.
• Today we can come boldly into His presence.
• We don't have to wonder if God will receive us - we are welcomed because of Jesus.
• Every blessing we enjoy begins with this wonderful truth: we have access to God.
2. WE CAN SPEAK TO GOD AT ANY TIME
• One of the greatest blessings of our relationship with God is that we can speak to Him whenever we need to.
• Prayer is not a religious exercise, it is a conversation with our Heavenly Father.
• Philippians 4:6 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.'
• We can bring every concern, every fear, every disappointment and every joy to Him.
• Nothing is too big for Him and nothing is too small for Him.
• God delights when His children come to Him.
• Never underestimate the power of prayer.
• It keeps our hearts connected to the One Who holds all things together.
3. GOD IS OUR CONSTANT HELP
• God never intended that we should face life in our own strength.
• He invites us to depend on Him.
• Psalm 46:1 'God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.'
• Psalm 121:1-2 'My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.'
• God is not a distant observer.
• He is a present help.
• He understands every challenge we face.
• When we feel weak, He gives strength.
• When we don't know what to do, He gives wisdom.
• Because we are connected to Him, His help is always available.
4. GOD IS OUR DELIVERER
• Throughout Scripture we see God rescuing His people.
• He delights in bringing freedom where people are bound.
• Psalm 34:4 'I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.'
• Psalm 107:6 'Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress.'
• Sometimes God changes our circumstances.
• Sometimes He changes us in the middle of our circumstances.
• Either way, He is our Deliverer.
• Whatever has been holding you back, God is able to bring you through.
5. GOD BRINGS HEALING
• God is concerned with every part of our lives.
• He brings healing to our bodies, our hearts, our minds and our souls.
• Psalm 103:2-3 'Forget not all His benefits... Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases.'
• Psalm 30:2 'O LORD my God, I cried out to You, and You healed me.'
• Sometimes healing comes instantly.
• Sometimes it comes as God gently restores us over time.
• Never stop believing that God is able to heal and restore.
• His heart is always towards bringing life.
6. NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US FROM HIS LOVE
• One of the greatest assurances we have is that God's love never changes.
• His love is not based on our performance.
• It is rooted in His character.
• Romans 8:38-39 'Neither death nor life... nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.'
• People may disappoint us, circumstances may change, feelings may fluctuate, but God's love remains constant.
• We are securely held in His love.
7. WE LIVE UNDER HIS COMPASSION
• God is not indifferent to our struggles.
• He sees our pain.
• He understands our weakness.
• He is moved with compassion toward His children.
• Psalm 103:13 'As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.'
• Psalm 116:5 'The LORD is gracious and righteous; yes, our God is full of compassion.'
• His compassion means He comes alongside us.
• He comforts, strengthens and restores us.
• No matter what you are facing today, His compassionate heart is turned towards you.
8. REMAIN CLOSE TO HIM
• A healthy relationship requires closeness.
• God invites us to walk with Him every day.
• James 4:8 'Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.'
• The more time we spend with Him, the stronger our relationship becomes.
• Stay connected through prayer.
• Stay connected through His Word.
• Stay connected through worship.
• Stay connected through obedience.
• A life lived close to God is a life marked by peace, strength, and confidence.
Conclusion
• What an incredible privilege it is to belong to God.
• Through Jesus Christ we have direct access to our Heavenly Father.
• We can speak with Him, receive His help, experience His healing, walk in His love, and rest in His compassion.
• Don't neglect this wonderful relationship.
• Stay close to Him every day.
• The closer we walk with God, the more we discover that everything we truly need is found in Him.
• May we live each day fully connected to the One Who will never leave us nor forsake us.
• People may disappoint us, circumstances may change, feelings may fluctuate, but God's love remains constant.
• We are securely held in His love.
7. WE LIVE UNDER HIS COMPASSION
• God is not indifferent to our struggles.
• He sees our pain.
• He understands our weakness.
• He is moved with compassion toward His children.
• Psalm 103:13 'As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.'
• Psalm 116:5 'The LORD is gracious and righteous; yes, our God is full of compassion.'
• His compassion means He comes alongside us.
• He comforts, strengthens and restores us.
• No matter what you are facing today, His compassionate heart is turned towards you.
8. REMAIN CLOSE TO HIM
• A healthy relationship requires closeness.
• God invites us to walk with Him every day.
• James 4:8 'Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.'
• The more time we spend with Him, the stronger our relationship becomes.
• Stay connected through prayer.
• Stay connected through His Word.
• Stay connected through worship.
• Stay connected through obedience.
• A life lived close to God is a life marked by peace, strength, and confidence.
Conclusion
• What an incredible privilege it is to belong to God.
• Through Jesus Christ we have direct access to our Heavenly Father.
• We can speak with Him, receive His help, experience His healing, walk in His love, and rest in His compassion.
• Don't neglect this wonderful relationship.
• Stay close to Him every day.
• The closer we walk with God, the more we discover that everything we truly need is found in Him.
• May we live each day fully connected to the One Who will never leave us nor forsake us.