Pocket Thoughts - 6/21/24
God * makes the nations tremble * keeps in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast * is a glorious crown and a beautiful wreath for the remnant of His people.
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Moses may not have anticipated that the Lord’s timetable might move a bit slower than his nor that Pharaoh would be so resistant to his requests. Having confidence in God when life doesn’t work out according to your timetable is an opportunity to let Him develop your character. Learn to trust that in the waiting, He’s working for your good, and look for ways to honor Him in the midst of your hardship. Remember that He will faithfully see you through to the other side. He did it for Moses. He’ll do it for you. - TV
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You may choose to rebel against God, but the consequence of being separated from Him is a hard road to walk. Knowing that our holy God’s heart is tuned to mercy, why would you opt for His wrath instead? He “acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.” He is so patient, and His desire is to be your loving Heavenly Father. What is your desire? - TV
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Oh, great God, You are able to use anyone to accomplish whatever Your will is. There’s no limit to what You can do through a willing vessel. Forgive me for turning up my nose at opportunities for ministry because “my” gifts, talents, and – honestly – my preferences don’t match up with what You’re asking of me. Lord, have mercy on me. Who am I to tell You what I’m capable of? You are the Potter. I am but the clay. How often I conveniently forget that. Lord, bend my will to mesh with Yours. Fit my feet, hands, and words with readiness. May my aim be joyful obedience and a glad “Yes, Lord!” – fueled by absolute trust in what You can and will do through me. May I be found among the ranks of all who are attuned to Your voice and submissive to Your call, standing eager and ready to go on mission. Thank You for reminding me yet again of the privilege of being a part of Your great eternal plan. I pray in humility and in the beautiful Name of Jesus, amen.
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Trials will come your way. Your attitude and your understanding of their purpose will make the difference between hope and despair. Keep in mind that life’s troubles – under the watchful eye of our loving Father – have the potential to teach us perseverance, patience, and reliance on Him. Ask Him for strength, wisdom, and greater faith. God’s goal isn’t your comfort – it’s your maturity. You can “count it all joy” when you realize that He’s at work in the midst of your struggles and that you don’t face them alone. - TV
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“As it is necessary to repair the body by the frequent meal, so we must repair the soul by feeding upon the Book of God, or by listening to the preached Word, or by the soul-fattening table of the ordinances. How depressed are our graces when means are neglected! What poor starving souls they are who live without the diligent use of the Word of God and secret prayer!...Without constant restoration, we are not ready for the perpetual assaults of hell, or the stern afflictions of heaven, or even for the strife within…Let us draw near to the footstool of divine mercy in humble entreaty, and we shall realize the fulfillment of the promise, ‘They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.’(Isaiah 40:31)” – Charles Spurgeon
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“O Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, ‘God will not deliver him.’ But You are a shield around me, O Lord; You bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the Lord I cry aloud, and He answers me from His holy hill. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side.” - Psalm 3:1-6