In high school, I learned how to do back handsprings. I was on an intensely dedicated competition cheer team that practiced hours and hours nearly every day. My dad would often joke, “I sure hope your coaches get serious about this whole cheerleading thing.” My number one goal in life, at the time, was to demonstrate my awesomeness in front of the football team.
I wanted to be admired. I wanted the linebacker to be in love with me. I wanted my cheer coaches to be proud of me. I exhausted myself—determined to be the best and most strategic in my efforts to let everyone know I was the best.
A lot of toe touches, a lot of hairspray, and a lot of years and tears went into my efforts of being the bubbly, cheering god of my own little universe.
The problem was, I was never impressive enough. And even when I felt I was, there were never enough people watching. And if there were enough people watching, they weren’t watching well enough. If they were watching well enough, they weren’t responding loudly enough. It was never enough.
Today’s reading is such a beautiful chunk of Scripture about our one, true God. Our actually and legitimately worthy of praise God. Our Creator is the only being who genuinely has the right to demonstrate His goodness and perfection in the sight of all. We tend to strive to secure a worthiness that always feels false. But He is worthy.
I loved reading what God says to the house of Judah in today’s passage. “Go and serve your idols….But afterward you will surely listen to me…” (Ezekiel 20:39). And then, He tells the people, “I will demonstrate my holiness through you in the sight of the nations” (v.41). I may not have known it back in high school when I was doing my best God impression, but His Spirit was patiently and compassionately pursuing me, the way He did with the people of Judah thousands of years ago. He was loving me, in my exhaustion, toward the realization that He alone could satisfy.
In Ezekiel 20:42, God says, “…When I lead you into the land of Israel, the land I swore to give your ancestors, you will know that I am the LORD….”
Even though He was speaking to the exiled people, we see His character here, and we see how He deals with us and our own idolatry. We often spend time chasing our own desires and we end up empty. But God keeps His promises, despite our wanderings and failures. He leads us to the promised land, because He is a promise keeper! For those of us who accept the finished work of His Son, that “promised land” can be found anywhere on the map of this so-obviously-broken world.
Years after the prophet Ezekiel had come and gone, Jesus left heaven and came to this world, “suffer[ing] for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring [us] to God…” (1Peter 3:18–21).
We, too, have failed at being holy. We, like them, turned from worshiping Him to worshiping other things—ridiculous things like cheerleading and careers and compliments. But, God, in His mercy, has made a way for us to be restored. During this Lenten season we are reminded that He makes spiritually dead people abundantly alive through the extravagant and sacrificial love of His only Son, the only One worthy of praise.
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62 thoughts on "Israel’s Restoration"
Amazing words
Praying for you now Mariam.
Amen
“And I will demonstrate my holiness through you in the site of the nations” you will loath yourself for all your deeds which you have defiled yourself“
Scarlet Hiltibidal slapped me in the face with this commentary. So true.
Victoria E I hope your first 24 is all you ever dreamed it would be. Praise Be to Gid Almighty.
So thankful that baby Elijah has come into this world to bless his mother and father, and our group of shes as well. We have all read about, prayed about, and rejoiced with this loving couple these last few months. May God pour out his blessings on this beautiful little family!
And for you, Brooke…May you enjoy the beautiful journey of your pregnancy and embrace the many changes to your body as God prepares you to be a mother. May he bless you throughout this time.
Love to all of you ladies, my amazing family of sisters in Christ. ❤️
Please prayer for my health anxiety. It has taken over my life the past few months. I need release of bondage from this and to fully lean in on God.
Please prayer for my health anxiety. It has taken over my life the past few months. I need release of bondage fro,
BROOKE P – thanks for you update. I was going to ask tomorrow! Rejoicing with you on the good growth of your little one❤
FOSTER MAMA❤
DOROTHY – praying for Finley!
SARAH D – may you be the hands and feet of Jesus on this trip.
MARTHA HIX – praying for your brother and his family.
MELANIE – praying for Jason as wisdom for the doctors.
Adrienne, thank you. Thank you seriously thank you! I am 17 weeks as of yesterday & our baby is the size of a large onion. I heard the heart beat again Tuesday & it is strong and I’m on track! We will have our anatomy ultrasound on April 1st & am so so prayerful that our baby will continue to grow healthy and strong! (We also will find out what we are having then!!) I am just so thankful to God for his provision, mercy and grace. I’ve never been this far into a pregnancy before and I’m just filled with so much joy and thankfulness. I am so thankful for everyone of you and your prayers for us! (Our due date is at the end of August!) ❤️❤️ I love this community.
@Victoria E!!! PRAISE GOD SISTER!!!! Welcome to the world, sweet Elijah!! So many already love you and are praying for you!! Praise God! Thank you LORD for this delivery & your gracious gift! I am crying tears of joy for you! Hugs and prayers from Florida to you and your family!! ❤️❤️❤️ Praise GOD!
I am so thankful that God always gives us a way back to himself; no matter how far we have strayed. ❤️
Elijah welcome to this world God made. You have many who love you. Victoria E. congrats to you and your husband. Let God guide you in raising him.
Praying for all those mentioned and those not mentioned.
VICTORIA E – Congrats on baby Elijah!!
ASH H – Prayers for Milo. This saddens my heart for this family.
This was a hard read for me. I was thinking about idols and sin the other day. I almost understand the not giving up of their idols. Think about different religions that have so much structure. Idols, ex: incense, the lighting of candles, not allowing certain foods, etc. It has been ingrained in them to follow these acts of tradition. I watch as my own husbands family is this way. My father in law set me straight once when I told him how Sundays sermon from my church, would pop in my head during the week. He said, “that is not why I go to mass.” I was speechless. In fear of his grouchiness, I did not reply. My mother was this way. She could not understand how you could just ask God for forgiveness and not have to go to confession. We live in such a broken world. The answer for me is so simple, study my Bible. All the answers we need are right there.
I also feel such a grief over my sins. And as I watch the world drowning in sinful behavior that has become more and more acceptable. So many have run the other way from God. I pray that my eyes stay looking up. It is the only way.
Scarlet said “we often spend time chasing our own desires and we end up empty. So true. But God keeps His promises, despite our wanderings and failures. He is a promise keeper!
Congratulations Victoria E. & welcome to you little Elijah. Praising the Lord.
Praying as I go through all your comments. They are such a blessing for me. Thanks to all y’all.
BUT GOD!!!! You and Your Son and the Holy Spirit ARE THE ONLY ONES WORTHY of praise and worship.
BUT GOD!!!! You and You alone are the One we should turn to, no others can do what YOU CAN DO!!
God, You sent Your One and Only Son to redeem us from our sins, to cleanse us from our wrongdoings, to help purify us, yet we continue to do the things that upset and anger You. Father, though You sent Jesus to forgive us from our sins and wrongdoings, we imperfect beings continue to sin. Please forgive me/us. Know that I/we love You and try to do Your will, though I/we slip at times. Your love and forgiveness is what I/we ask for. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Now I see what many of you have told me when have said it was the Lord helping you write what you do.
Sisters, be blessed and know NO MATTER WHAT the LORD will forgive you, if you only ask.
I don’t post very often but I read the comments every day. I’m lifting you all up in prayer and praying for all of your requests. My constant prayer is for changed hearts for so many of my loved ones who aren’t walking with the Lord. This study is a reminder that God is the changer of hearts. I will continue to pray for my loved ones every day. We have a real enemy who wants to destroy us; this is spiritual warfare and we already know who won the battle. Like others have mentioned, Ezekiel is a hard book to read at times. I read it last year with The Bible Recap and I found it to be very helpful. I know other ladies have mentioned The Bible Project videos and those are awesome too!
Congrats Victoria! My church is doing Priscilla Shirer’s study on Elijah right now, so when I saw his name it made my heart sing.
Although hard, I’m appreciating the study on the book of Ezekiel more and more. MOLLY R. I agree. This study is doing what it’s designed to. It’s breaking our hearts and softening them to the work done on the cross by Jesus.
Congratulation Victoria ! May You have grace and peace in this new season. <3
@VICTORIA E. Welcome baby Elijah! We are all so excited that you have arrived!
I’ve had enough of this world. I’m tired of it’s ways. I’m ready for God’s restoration to wash over me and the world.
ONCE again I needed this reminder. At my ripe old age and stubbornness, I needed this reminder to stop chasing after compliments. Mainly, leadership. On this side of heaven, most likely I will never be a leader at my workplace. Younger ones are being raised up above me, and as much as it pains me I’m accepting it. My son recently said to me that it was OK that I’m not a leader at my workplace because I am a leader for him and his sister. My♥️. I love my son and daughter so much! The day I take my last breath, my only hope is they remember that I Loved Jesus and them (my children)!
@ANGIE Prayers for a steady recovery and strength going up for you and your hubby! And especially for the lady you met.
@Victoria E Congratulations!!! So excited to hear you and baby Elijah are well!!! Welcome to the world sweet boy. Father God, be with this young family, protect them, give them strength, rest, wisdom and peace as they begin to navigate their new roles as mom and dad. We give you praise and glory for this little life.
Hellllloooo Everyone :D
Thank you to all those who have kept me in thoughts and prayers {e.g. @ KELLY(NEO) ❤️– it meant the world, Sister}
I have been sooo behind on readings and took my own Mama on a much-needed trip…I have scrolled through a few comments here and there but, kept you all in my thoughts.
Admittedly, as we’ve travelled ❤️VICTORIA E’s pregnancy journey together, feeling “we” ;) were due soon, I found myself doing quick little check ins…
WELCOME ❤️ ELIJAH!! Most precious gift that you are, may our sweet Lord, with His perfect timing, have His soft & mighty hands upon you (and your parents) always to guide you in this life. May you have the courage & conviction to stand (like your namesake) even when it feels no one else around you is for God! And in those moments in your journey (which will undoubtedly come) where you have profound fear (as he did when Jezebel reared her head), may you run into the arms of the One who formed you in your mama’s womb. Great advice ❤️ HEIDI. I echo all of ❤️ ANGIE’s and our Sisters’ prayers for you. Blessings. Blessings.Blessings.
Praising You, Jesus that You desire for us to repent and come to You, even if it is with our last breath…Lord, teach us to turn away from evil and to have Your mind.
I have not done a very good job of responding to the scriptures with everything. While Ezekiel is difficult to read sometimes, can you imagine how hard it was to be the prophet to live it? And yet, he did. Obediently.
And the prophecy itself, what an example of God’s tremendous love, to be unwilling to leave His children in their sin. As painful, and frightening, as the wrath of God is (intensely so) how amazing is the love that is it’s foundation. How absolutely beyond wonderful-words to do Him justice, is our God.
My heart breaks when I read about Israel’s turning away and worshiping idols. My heart breaks when God, in His mercy-filled grace reminds me of the idols that try to sneak into my own life. Or what about times of disobedience or delayed obedience. While it is my heart’s desire to always obey right away, to be ready with, “Yes God, now what do You desire?” I know that I fail at times.
But one day…we will be with Him face to face. One day there will be no more evil to try to trip us up or steal those we love. One day we will worship together as the family of God, in His presence, in His kingdom, for eternity. One day, all because of Jesus and His purchase of our salvation. All because of the love of our God and indwelling Holy Spirit. Looking forward to that day, prayerfully thankful for the opportunity to serve with every breath He gives in this one. Amen and thank you God.
Congrats on the new babe ❤️
Victoria E. – God, our Father, King of the Universe, and Creator of all things, THANK YOU! Thank you for the precious life of baby Elijah. Thank you for Your plan for his days. Thank you for his mommy and daddy and the many moments along the way You have planned for them. Thank you for each and every precious finger, toe, and organ in his body. Thank you for those sweet and perfect lips created to take in the nutrients You have provided. Give Victoria the guidance she and her husband need every moment. Help them to rest peacefully and completely when they are able. May little Elijah have those resting times as well. Thank you, thank you, thank you Lord God, I repeat 3 times as You so often do in Your Word. We praise You alone, Creator and Lord for the life of Elijah and his parents.
Sarah Nunneley – Lord God, please be with Sarah’s dad and mom as they determine the next steps in figuring out why he passed out. I pray that it would be a simple fix and that You would direct them to doctor’s guided by You in wisdom and discernment of his condition. I pray for healing of his head injury and peace for her mom through this all.
Melanie – I lift your pastor and his family up to the Lord. God, these people, this little family, they are your servants. I pray for your hand to be upon the pastor in ICU. I pray that if it is according to your will and plan that this man could respond to treatments even today and begin the healing process. I pray, Lord Jesus, that his wife and children would find peace in recounting your faithfulness through the years and that in this situation as well they would be able to rest in You. Provide for them Savior and Lord.
Dorothy – You are a part of every step of Your children’s lives Lord. I pray for Finley and her parents at this time. I pray for the health of this little girl and the spiritual faith in you to grow and become her own. I pray for her parents to trust and follow after You fully Lord God and for them to have peace beyond understanding in this situation. I pray too for Dorothy as you provide for the financial needs she has – I don’t know if that will come through someone else to care for or another way but, we trust You and thank you in advance Lord.
Heidi – Lord God may your touch be upon Heidi. Help her with not feeling well today. I also lift her niece and friend before You. I pray first for the salvation for these two people. I pray for your healing hand to be upon them spiritually, physically, mentally, ad emotionally. It can be hard to watch those we love be taken to the place where they turn to You. Our hearts ache for those we love who make choices against You and your will for their lives. I pray for the circumstances to be such that her niece and friend turn to You as Lord of their lives. That is the only place of true and complete healing. Help them Lord God and we praise You for sending the Righteous One – Jesus Christ our Lord, for everyone of us-the unrighteous, for our hope, our redemption, is in Jesus alone.
Sarah D – God send your angels of protection around Sarah and those she travels with. Guide her to open hearts and minds to hear and respond to Your call. Give her hands of service and guide her feet on your paths. May this be a time of growing even closer to You and making memories of faith on this journey of life that You give us.
Martha Hix – Lord I lift Martha’s brother and SIL before you. I lift their son as well. I pray salvation for him and guidance for all involved when he is released. Change his heart oh God. Give him a heart of flesh. Chip away the stone. And please Lord, help his parents to be strong and have ears to hear and eyes to see and know what You would have them do and not do. Lord we all need that every day. Thank you for indwelling us. Help us to listen, actually hear, and apply/obey. I also pray for Martha in her grief – hold her close Lord God.
Ash H. – A little 5 year old boy Lord God, Milo. Leukemia. It is frightening. Guide his parents and his little sister. She is young and will not understand much of this. He is young also. Give him the child-like faith needed in every moment. Direct the doctors. Provide for this family. We ask this in Jesus precious and holy name.
Brooke P. – Praying for your precious pregnancy also.
In all these requests Lord, (and any I’ve presently missed), we ask for Your power, for Your glory, as we praise You, our God and King. Amen.
@Victoria E – So excited for you and your husband. Snuggle baby Elijah for me. ❤️
MARIANNE, yes I was slogging through todays reading too. Imagine how Ezekiel must have felt about it!
Praying for your father and for you, Sarah. That sounds scary! Prayers it was a one-time episode and that he’s free from any kind of “spell” in the future. ♥️
As I began yet another chapter of the failings of Israel, I was also thankful and relieved. How often I wallow in self-pity, shame, and regret of failing God yet again, failing to stay faithful and focused on God. But reading through Ezekiel for the first time in its entirety I am reminded that failing God is inevitable, no matter how much I “try.” This culminating study is doing just what it’s designed to, and that is break MY heart of stone and instill in me a softer heart towards the immeasurable work on the cross by Jesus. Now WHEN I fail in my faith, I get the great and undeserved privilege of repenting and renewing my mind to the wrath poured on HIS body, HIS life…and not mine, where it is actually deserved. It’s too great a gift to comprehend, and all I can offer most times are tears of sacrifice I lay at His feet with thanksgiving. He is SO good, SO faithful, SO just, and SO merciful to finish the work at the cross, and to give us the HOPE and JOY of the resurrection. WOW!
Good morning sisters-May God pour His blessings over you this day and every day.
Update: My husband’s surgery went well, much better than the first hip 3 years ago. We stayed overnight at that time. Yesterday they sent us home with the idea that he could sleep as well at home as in the hospital/clinic. He was pretty out-of-it, and in pain. We’ve got the pain better controlled at this point and he is able to put some weight on it. That is a HUGE praise! While it was still surgery, and there is healing time needed, I could only praise God for how much better this time has been. I give all the glory to God and thankfully praise Him for His loving care, and the powerful prayers of His children.
There was a lady, at our original meeting who will have hip surgery on the 29th. No one came with her to the meeting (you were supposed to have whomever is going to help you after surgery along). As I have cared for my husband since the surgery, my heart has been prayerfully lifting that lady. She said her boyfriend will get her from the hospital. I think she said she is 76, if I am remembering correctly. She is having the kind of surgery my husband had the first time, through the back of the hip (this time they went through the front). With every moment of help he has needed, my prayers have gone up for her.
Over and over God acts for one particular reason: so that they “will know that I am the LORD.” God will do whatever is necessary for people to know Him. It is when we know Him that we can trust Him. When we trust Him, we have contentment for today and peace for the future. He is the Lord. He is all we need. He is enough.
Reading all of this- it’s just so unbelievable what God did for us in Jesus. And makes it all even more plain to see that we- each of us- should have been the ones on that cross. He literally paid a price he DID NOT HAVE TO PAY. As God speaks back all the wrongdoing and names out all the “crimes” of His people (same exact crimes of greed, pride, idol worship, hardened hearts that we are individually guilty for today…) over these chapters, it’s even more unreal to me that He would say- “but know what kids? Your good ol’ Dad’s got it covered…” Covered with the tortured blood of His innocent, precious boy. I hope we can take it all in, and I hope we can not let that blood be poured out in vain.
Update: trying to keep it brief as I’m not feeling well at all today… I took the opportunity to make the drive back to the rehab facility to bring my niece some clothes and a Bible study book about self worth and God’s love for her. They wouldn’t let us see each other this time. It was disheartening but I knew it was a possibility. Lots of prayers in the hour and half drive there and more during the drive back to pick up the kids from school. Later she let me know her friend had her phone temporarily taken because her drug test came back showing she was using. My niece was using with her but her test hasn’t come back yet. Niece said if they try to take her phone, she’s checking herself out. Got very angry… this is all authoritative issues from her past and she’s falling back into it.. anyway- I prayed and begged with God for quite some time. I begged with her for quite some time. I called on some close friends to be in prayer and I also let her dad know what was going on so he could call and encourage her.
Idk what’s going to happen next. Praying regardless of the phone issue that she stays. She stays for herself and as a support to her friend who is suffering the consequences as well. While her taking responsibility for the consequence would be such a beautiful step in this process- I fear her not having her phone and not being able to talk with me/her dad, not getting uplifting texts and encouragement and what that could do to her. I told God this morning- “Hey, YOU are my only access to “friend” for a while. Please be faithful in bringing her the Encouragement and peace and love I’m praying over her…” I’m trusting He will.
I’m drained. Had to cancel patients today because I just can’t go in and see anyone. Hoping a day of partial rest will propel me back forward…
Praying for you all- I’m sorry for not listing out names, but I know who you are. ;)
Happy St. Patrick’s day ☘️ from a very Irish sister (with a German first name.. I know, I know.. ;))
Lord I need You. Amen
@Victoria E congratulations on the birth of baby Elijah!! Praising God and praying for a smooth transition and recovery!
So much I needed to hear today. I am definitely guilty of trying to chase my idols even though I know they won’t satisfy. SO thankful for a God who keeps His promises even though I wander and fail often. @Jennifer Loves Jesus I copied part of your comment in my journal so thank you for your words! “Thanks be to God that the pull of Jesus is stronger than the pull of the prison cell. I am saved and secure always and forever in Him.”
VICTORIA E – Congratulations on the birth of baby Elijah!!! I am so happy for you and your family!! Although I don’t comment often, I always look for your comments and updates on your pregnancy… God Bless!! ❤️ ASH – Prayers for strength for Milo and his family at this difficult time; my daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was 8 years old; the news was devastating and so I understand some of what they are going through… they will be in my prayers daily ❤️
VICTORIA E – Congratulations on the birth of baby Elijah!!! I am so happy for you and your family!! Although I don’t comment often, I always look for your comments and updates on your pregnancy… God Bless!! ❤️
Sarah Nunneley, praying for your parents after your dad’s fall. Thankful he’s okay. Praying for wisdom, peace and protection.
Lamenting over the shadow of God’s wrath. Even the righteous were cut off because of wickedness. Good people suffer at the hands of those who do bad things. Through Christ we have confidence that we will see goodness in the land of the living. Ezekiel 20:49 caught me with “is not he a maker of parables?” referring to the teaching they were hearing. There are many today who take this same view- preachers are seen as entertainers rather than teachers. And maybe they are false teachers, or their followers are blinded. Either way, I pray we would keep opening out Bibles for truth and teaching. May God open the eyes of His people on both ends of the pulpit. Lord, keep me humble and make me wise in Your eyes. Let my voice speak the truth. Let my daily living be a testimony of Your power and grace… In 1 Peter 3 there is Noah remembered as being saved by the ark on water. Out of the whole world, only 8 souls were saved. Through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, salvation comes through immersion of hearts. My heart is immersed in Him, buried and raised to new life. I have the sweet presence of Jesus to help me through suffering. Jesus suffered to a point I will never know, alone. He was cut off in His suffering, and I am held by Him. Like Ezekiel speaking to the disobedient people of the coming wrath and suffering, Jesus preached the final message to the disobedient spirits in prison, proclaiming His finished work on the cross. Yahweh used great signs to proclaim His power and ultimate dominion over all other gods and creatures. Humans were made to be His family. He wants us even with our brokenness. His covenant promise will not be broken. He is repairing and restoring us and our hearts day by day. When I came to know the truth, I was set free. But until I learned the disciplines of obedience, I was still visiting my old prison cell. Thanks be to God that the pull of Jesus was stronger than the prison. I am saved and secure always and forever in Him.
Sarah Nunneley, praying for you parents after
@Victoria E – Congratulations on the arrival of baby Elijah! (love the name!)
@Ash H – praying for Milo as he undergoes his treatment, such a difficult thing for one so young to go through – also for his parents
@Dorothy – sorry to hear that Finley’s condition is worse than first thought, praying for her, her family and also for you – that God would somehow replace the income you will lose, or miraculously stretch what you have.
All through these readings God has made it very clear – that all the judgements are for the Israelites to know that He is LORD. Father remind me today and every day You are LORD, and may I acknowledge You as LORD of my life! “He is LORD, He is LORD – He has risen from the dead and He is LORD!” Hallelujah!
A Happy St Patrick’s Day to you all!
AHHH! Congratulations VICTORIA on baby Elijah! I’m so excited for you. :)
DOROTHY: praying for Finley’s healing and wisdom for her doctors
SARAH NUNNELY: praying for your father’s healing. I’m so glad to hear that he is doing okay.
HEIDI: praying for your niece and her friend that they might be given a willing heart to heal <3
ASH H: praying for Milo's healing and wisdom for his doctors
MELANIE: praying for Jason's healing and wisdom for his doctors
EVERYONE!!!: praying that God reveals us of our idols and cleanses our hearts, minds, and bodies so that we can turn away from worldly pleasures and turn to Him alone!
Congratulations Victoria E on the birth of baby Elijah! Such beautiful name.
Praying for more answered prayers for all SHE’s. Our God is faithful and He will do it!
Praying for all the SHE’s prayer request. May God restore, heal, deliver and give us peace that passes all understanding.
Praying that God meet us at the point of our needs.
May God’s mighty hand carry us through difficult times and may Victory be ours in Christ Jesus. And may we always feel His presence in Jesus name Amen
❤️
Hello family! I don’t always comment here and I’m not sure how to see replies if they come, but I have a prayer request as well. Yesterday evening I got a call that my father had passed out in the bathroom in the middle of the night, and as he fell he hit his head on a step stool my nieces use to reach the sink. He woke up hours later and was bleeding from a head wound. He went to the hospital and I guess they couldn’t find anything wrong…so he’s home and recovering. I’m relieved he’s okay, and I’m so fearful it will happen again. Please pray for his recovery and for peace for my mother who I’m certain is quite scared. I was pretty scared myself.
I’ll be back later to respond to the study but wanted to get my “congrats” in for VICTORIA and Baby Elijah YAY!! I hope you enjoy this time and take this advice to heart-
SLEEP WHEN YOU CAN
CRY WHEN YOU WANT TO
GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK
REST IN GOD’S GRACE
YOU’RE A GREAT. MOM!
❤️❤️❤️❤️
The readings lately are so hard. Knowing that I sin ongoing and perpetually is saddening to my heart so I can’t imagine how I grieve my Lord. May God purify my heart, hands and mouth during this season. Sisters Can I ask you to pray for my pastor. His name is Jason. He has been in ICU for over a week. We need a miracle for him. He has a wife and 2 young children.
Such conviction in today’s Scriptures. Lord, help me keep my focus on you.
MICHELLE PATIRE – ❤️
VICTORIA E – Welcome, Elijah! Thankful you are both doing well
BOBBIE LEATHERS on your comment yesterday about the multiple posts – if you are using the app, I think it’s the ‘enter’ key. It seems to act like a Post Now button. I try to use the browser on my tablet (no problem with it). I had to use the phone app a few days ago and hit enter out of habit, thought my post was lost and ended up with multiples. Even though I knew better …
SHARON JERSEY GIRL – thank you for those nonbeliever question suggestions. Even if the person doesn’t answer, the questions plant a seed.
Praying for:
ANGIE – your husband, smooth recovery
DOROTHY – Finley’s healing, wisdom/skill for doctors, financial needs and that you will be blessed and be a blessing for fill in work with your agency
HEIDI – your niece, her friend, your witness to them by faithful visits and prayer
SARAH D – mission trip to DC
KRISTINA LOPES- grad school challenges
MARTHA HIX – for your SIL’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis/treatment/healing, and for your nephew. Safe travels as you go to spend time with your grands
ASH H – Milo’s treatment and healing, his parents and sister
Congratulations Victoria E on the birth of healthy, baby Elijah!! Praises and continued prayers for you and your family. And praying for Milo today as well and his family as the burden is there. God is there to hold this burdens and carry them through. I pray they feel His presence today.
Only God alone can satisfy!!
Prayers for Milo! Praise God for the birth of Elijah! I have a smile just thinking about this gift from God. Prayers for you all!
I love the thought that God doesn’t just make bad people good. He makes dead people alive. And not just alive, but abundantly alive “through the extravagant and sacrificial love of His only Son, the only One worthy of praise.
Welcome to the world, Elijah! Congratulations, Victoria. Thank you for letting us know. Praying for a smooth recovery and lots and lots of joy.
ASH, I add my prayers to the others for Milo, his parents, and his sister. I cannot imagine.
REMEMBER “that He makes spiritually dead people abundantly alive through the extravagant and sacrificial love of His only Son, the only One worthy of praise.”
Welcome Elijah E – you have “aunties” all over the world celebrating your arrival.
ASH H – praying for Milo and family. May the Lord be their strength.
ANGIE – how’s your husband?
From HRT today, “There is no problem too big or conflict too large for God. He can work in any situation and flow through any circumstance. He can right any wrong because He is holy. However, many times in our lives, we feel like our problems or issues are too big for God. Since God doesn’t work on our timeline, we mistakenly put our feelings of weakness and inattentiveness on Him.”
Keep your eyes on Jesus today☘
It’s hard to read chapter after chapter of judgement. We read a small section about Israel’s restoration, but immediately afterwards Ezekiel has to go back to preaching God’s judgement. We’ve had already 21 chapters which mostly talk about Israel’s sin. It can be tiring, but I think we need it. Every day we need to be reminded of the gravity of sin, it’s consequences and how sin just can’t go together with a holy God. And thankfully there are glimmers of hope amidst the darkness. In a different translation, Ezekiel 21:27 reads “A ruin! A ruin! I will make it a ruin! The crown will not be restored until he to whom it rightfully belongs shall come; to him I will give it.” The One to whom it rightfully belongs has come and He is sitting on the throne.
Victoria E – Congratulations on the birth of Elijah. Praising God!
Ash – Praying for Milo and his family
Dorothy – Praying for Finley and God’s provision for you
Hello Sisters, praying for Milo and family. And was thrilled to see the news of your sweet baby Elijah. So happy for your answer to prayer Victoria E. Praise be to God. Such good news. Hugs to you all.
Congratulations Victoria on the birth of your son Elijah!! What a privilege for us that you took the time to update us on such a special day for you, be blessed xx
ASH- will pray for little Milo that he will be brave as he starts his treatment and that God will be the whole family’s rearguard to protect them, and the Fire that goes before them to lead them through this difficult time x
Congratulations Victoria on the birth of your son Elijah!! What a privilege for us that you took the time to update us on such a special day for you, be blessed xx
ASH- will pray for little Milo that he will be brave as he starts his treatment and that God will be the whole family’s rearguard
Please continue to pray for my nephew, Milo, and his parents. He is 5 years old and has started treatment for leukemia this week. His little sister turned 2 today, so his parents are stuck in trying to celebrate in the midst of great sadness and exhaustion.
They are believers and are asking Jesus to be present throughout this long journey.
Congratulations, Victoria, on your baby boy! Praying for a smooth recovery and deep joy. What an honor to watch this miracle unfold from the comment section.