Paul’s Concern for the Galatians

Open Your Bible

Galatians 4:8-20, Deuteronomy 32:1-9, Acts 17:24-31, Romans 1:18-25

A few years ago, I was sitting in a two-story coffee shop, iced chai in hand, and I told a good friend that my life felt characterized by loss. I felt guilty as soon as I said it. After all, this wasn’t entirely true. Loss didn’t always steal my joy in those times of tasting God’s goodness and His many good gifts, but it always overshadowed it once my attention drifted to what had been taken away. My friend then did what he does best: he challenged that belief. This didn’t need to be the story, or lens, through which I interpreted my life. We could learn to look for what was there, rather than what was missing.

I was enslaved to this false narrative, just like the Galatians were enslaved to former ways of living. It’s easy to read the New Testament and wonder why it was so hard for people to stay faithful to God after an encounter. These people had known God and been known by Him, yet they turned away. Why? How do people who were living so close to the time of Christ—and the formation of the early church—turn away from it? This was the question also burning inside of the apostle Paul. “But now,” he said, “since you know God, or rather have become known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elements? Do you want to be enslaved to them all over again?” (Galatians 4:9).

I think Paul was implying that a real relationship should inspire loyalty and freedom. The Galatians had become enslaved to “weak and worthless elements” by reverting back to worshiping false gods. I can see now how we, even after encountering God today like the Galatians encountered Him back then, still allow ourselves to be enslaved by untrue stories or objects of false hope.

“Where, then, is your blessing?” Paul asked (v.15). We can’t receive the blessing of being sons and daughters if we are enslaved to the law or false gods or any other object outside of Christ. That is, in fact, the very curse of sin that Christ came to break.

Paul so deeply desired that these people find freedom and a genuine commitment to God that He said He was “suffering labor pains” until Christ was formed in them (v.19). This type of personal interest only comes from someone who encounters Jesus, finds transformation, and seeks the eternal well-being of others.

Staying close to Jesus is the only way to release the things we’re enslaved to. Whether it’s the narratives in our heads or other tangible idols, we will never be able to fight hard enough against the inclinations of our own flesh. Victory comes through Christ alone.

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97 thoughts on "Paul’s Concern for the Galatians"

  1. Emily Tucker says:

    ❤️

  2. Joan Richards says:

    The “going deeper” readings for today, day 12, absolutely slayed me! In the best way possible. If those readings don’t cause an immediate course correction in your life I cannot imagine what would. Thank you, Father, for your convicting, correcting Word!

  3. Annette Smith says:

    What resonates in my heart with the supplemental reading is all the mention of righteousness. It’s through Christ alone that I can have right standing with God I’m so thankful when God sees me that he sees my mediator!

  4. G says:

    I missed reading yesterday due to a busy morning that started early with high school senior activities and it was the first day of school for my kids. Then as I finished reading, I saw there were 85 comments and thought, “Wow! Already?” Then I remembered that I’m a day late, lol. Lifting up all the requests.

    1. Adrienne says:

      Hahahahaha! ❤️

  5. Adrienne says:

    Prayers for me, please? Still trying to find the cause of my speech issues. Bloodwork shows that I have low iron, and the CT scan shows nodules on my thyroid. I am being impatient. How long before the iron supplementation helps? Does being tired cause my troubles? And will the iron help with that? I am so very tired. Is it (speech and being exhausted) thyroid related? I feel that the answers are not coming quickly enough, and I am getting so discouraged. I just want to cry…

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Adrienne, I am so sorry for the frustration and not knowing! At least these are things to investigate and hopefully guide the docs to the answer. Prayers for wisdom, discernment, and determination on their part to get to the bottom of this. Hugs! ❤

      1. Adrienne says:

        Thank you. ❤️

    2. Cee Gee says:

      Me again. (smile) From a quick search on the 2 online sites I trust, the answer is yes: thyroid nodules can affect speech, especially if one is pressing on a nerve.Praying for a successful plan/remedy. ❤

      1. Adrienne says:

        Thanks (again… Heeheehee!) ❤️

    3. Indiana Elaine says:

      My prayers are with you, Adrienne!! I hear and feel you frustrations. I have had thyroid disease for 25 years and it sounds like it could be thyroid related. Find
      A good endocrinologist. It took me two years to get a diagnosis. It is an unexplainable tiredness. My feet felt like bricks. I hope and pray you find answers soon! Don’t give up until you have answers. Look up top doctors in endocrinology in your area. I drive 100 miles to see mine, but it is well worth it.

      1. Adrienne says:

        Thank you for the recommendation. ❤️

    4. Laura says:

      Adrienne, my husband had low iron counts and was taking supplements for three years. His iron levels never went up. The doc missed it and finally a PA noticed that they were not getting better despite taking iron for three years. They finally discovered a benign tumor in his stomach that had been bleeding for three years. It was causing him to be extremely tired.

      It may not be related to your tiredness, since you have another symptom with the nodules, but it might be good to at least ask your doc about it if your levels have been low for awhile.

      Praying for you that you get some answers.

      1. Adrienne says:

        Thank you! Iron injections will be the next step, if my iron stores aren’t up in three months. That is good info that you shared. ❤️

  6. Maria Baer says:

    She’s— thank you for the prayers! I feel them and carry them all. Sending much love!

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Maria, I, too, pray you have the rest you need tonight. I experienced something similar last week. Praying Psalm 4:8 for you tonight. ❤ “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.”

  7. Gwineth52 says:

    Hello Shes.
    “Since you know God, or rather have become known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elements” (Galatians 4:9).
    The part about how we “have become known by God” strikes at my heart. Being known is so loving, so forgiving, so patient, so intimate. Having come to belief, having found the faith, how, & oh why, do I fall back on the absurdity of false & useless idols?! Paul chastised the Galatians, as I must caution myself. Like Moses admonished, “pay attention …don’t be fooled… declare the greatness of God. Stare down moments of weakness. Of which I have many. As Bailey summed: Victory comes through Christ alone”!
    Amen

  8. Nc O says:

    Victory does not come by my habits…though those can help me stay close to Jesus…victory comes from staying close to and being guided by Jesus

    1. Jennifer AndersMiller says:

      Amen to this!! I need to write this down!

  9. Rhonda J. says:

    Great scripture again (duh, of course) and the devotional really added too it! It is so relevant in our country today..bowing to other idols, everyone forgetting the One, True God! The ones that should be believers slipping away, Lukewarm forgetting the miracles given!

    Let us not slip away! Your insights are good. So many of our kids were raised in church, but have joined the “sparkling” world they can’t refuse! Even we…slip! But God—I really find that it is my serving that keeps the miracles and moving of God front and center of my life. Yes, of course my personal relationship is my anchor and growth, I’m just saying..seeing the moving of God in others lives (here as well, sharing your Praises!} is helpful in giving me a weekly strengthening that just keeps getting bigger and bigger. I know valleys and afflictions shall come and persecution, I hope I will stand on my firm foundation, the solid ROCK! “All other ground is sinking sand!”
    Love ya’ll!
    Homeless later, I am praying for some BIG encounters led by the Holy Spirit…giving ME amazing, only Him, boldness and sharing GOD to each and everyone!

  10. Cee Gee says:

    I’ll Fix My Eyes on Jesus by People and Songs
    Chorus (a ccapella):
    I lift up my head
    I sing out a song
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    Till the things of this earth
    All pass away
    I fix my eyes on Jesus
    Verse 1:
    O soul, if you are weary
    If there’s no light
    in the darkness you see
    There is light, look at the Savior
    You’ll find a life
    more abundant and free

    Chorus:
    I lift up my head I sing out a song
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    Till the things of this earth all pass away
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus.
    Verse 2:
    Take heart His goodness and mercy
    Overshadow my deepest despair
    Through death to life everlasting
    Jesus leads on and we follow Him there (2x)

    Chorus:
    I lift up my head I sing out a song
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    Till the things of this earth all pass away
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus

    Bridge:
    I will shine in light behold His glory
    Come face to face with the Lord of hosts
    I will join the song of thousands ten-thousands
    Holy holy
    (REPEAT)

    2nd:
    Holy, Holy
    Holy, Holy
    Holy, Holy Lord

    Chorus:
    I lift up my head I sing out a song
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    Till the things of this earth all pass away
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    © 2017 Tent Peg Music

  11. Cee Gee says:

    Thank you, BAILEY, for this! I really needed this reminder today. “Where, then, is your blessing?” Paul asked (v.15). We can’t receive the blessing of being sons and daughters if we are enslaved to the law or false gods or any other object outside of Christ. That is, in fact, the very curse of sin that Christ came to break.”
    ~
    “Staying close to Jesus is the only way to release the things we’re enslaved to. Whether it’s the narratives in our heads or other tangible idols, we will never be able to fight hard enough against the inclinations of our own flesh. Victory comes through Christ alone.”
    ~
    After listening to ‘In Christ Alone’ (thanks, Tina!) I was led to another ‘new to me’ song that brought me to tears as I sang along. If anyone wants to listen it is posted by People and Songs on youtube as: “I’ll Fix My Eyes (ft Sean Carter, Melanie Tierce, and Kaden Slay).
    Lyrics:
    (Inspired by the hymn “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus”)

    Chorus:
    I lift up my head
    I sing out a song
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    Till the things of this earth
    All pass away
    I fix my eyes on Jesus
    Verse 1:
    O soul, if you are weary
    If there’s no light
    in the darkness you see
    There is light, look at the Savior
    You’ll find a life
    more abundant and free

    Chorus:
    I lift up my head I sing out a song
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus
    Till the things of this earth all pass away
    I’ll fix my eyes on Jesus.*
    ~
    * Continued on a second comment. I am having trouble on my Kindle.

  12. Patricia Patton says:

    Keep praying. God will restore you and energize you to assist in making up for your lost sleep. The enemy comes often in the darkness of night to battle. He is darkness. If possible or available keep a playlist of worship songs on your phone and earbuds. When you are awakened by the dark dreams play the worship music. They cannot linger in the midst of worship, usually by song 3 they are gone and I find peace to fall back asleep.

    1. Gwineth52 says:

      Advice much appreciated Patricia. Spoken as one prone to sleeplessness. By song three … or psalms three … rest may be restored.

  13. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    “Staying close to Jesus is the only way to release the things we’re enslaved to…Victory comes through Christ alone.”
    _____________
    These words are so true! If we could just remember them daily!! One of my constant prayers is that I would remain close to Jesus, that I would remember His presence throughout my day. I start off great – spend time in the Word and in prayer, but then I hit the ground running and some days forget all about my Savior-friend who is right beside me.
    __________
    Father please help me to remember Your presence every day and to always stay close to You. My victory over sin, the world, Satan – comes from You alone – You are my strength and shield. Guide me today with Your presence and please bless each of my dear SRT sisters. In Jesus name.
    __________
    Continuing to pray for your requests.
    @Traci G. – much prayers for you and your family in your loss.

    Happy Friday Sisters!!❤️

    1. Allison Bentley says:

      Me too Sharon! Praying we remember His presence!

    2. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, So true Sharon! My word for this year is “Presence”…which is funny because a song is on RIGHT this second repeating “in your presence” wow, God. I think it’s called “Come Alive!” Not sure who it is by, but pretty! I MUST remember He IS in Me! I will look up the words…

      “We Come Alive” Jonathon Taylor! (I have heard the song a lot, but had no idea title and singer!)

    3. Annette Smith says:

      Amen! It’s a daily victory! Even moment by moment staying next to Jesus.

      I am new to commentating in the SRT community. Thank you for. Letting me share your comment. I am on my porch this morning praying and reading. I will pray for you!

  14. Kris says:

    TRACI GENDRON: thinking of your family and praying often. I hope you are feeling God’s closeness and strength during this time. Many, many prayers for your sister and niece. My heart breaks for them. As a grandma, I can’t imagine losing any of my grandkids, let alone in a tragic way.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Same, praying for this situation and the heartache. I am glad you are there for them and they know you know the loss, albeit different it is still a loss of a child.

  15. Kris says:

    The scripture that comes to mind is Matt 6:33, “Seek FIRST the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you”. Falling away, like they are saying here, usually starts with some need that we feel isn’t being taken care of by God, so we start looking elsewhere. Our eyes are taken off Christ, we start to creep back into old habits. KEEP JESUS FIRST is the only way to combat these urges to look somewhere else for fulfillment, for provision, for peace, for protection, for knowledge, for guidance…

    1. Gwineth52 says:

      Thank you, Kris, for that
      Keep Jesus First (KJF)
      declaration & affirmation!

  16. Cheryl Blow says:

    Christ alone is where we find true freedom, joy, and peace. We can’t live straddling the fence of both worlds. I think at least in my life that it will creep in gradually. That is why we must be faithful in prayer and reading God’s word, and in community at our church. We need people who will hold us accountable. We need each other.

    Praying for all. Please continue to pray for Brian and his wife Martha.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes! Amen Cheryl! We need to stay close to Jesus! We HAVE to stay close to Jesus!

    2. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Cheryl, I don’t recall what the request was for, but I will be praying for Brian and Martha. ❤️

  17. Mari V says:

    Happy FRIDAY sweet She’s! Yay! We made it through our first week! And I admit, all of us in TK were looking forward to today. Its been a challenge to say the least. I actually feel convicted after reading this mornings devo. Sometimes my “old-self” comes out when a child is NOT following directions and “chooses” to do what they want. Taking deep breaths here…I remind myself they are ONLY 4 years-old and they haven’t learned to regulate themselves yet and looking to me for guidance. Please pray as I want to be Christlike to these little ones even when its hard. Also pray for our TK teachers especially one of them who was near tears as it has been very challenging. Thank goodness we got EXTRA support yesterday and will continue.

    1. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Praying for you Mari, and all our SRT teachers! ❤️

  18. Laura says:

    Gosh, once again these Scriptures have spoken so deeply to my heart. I feel Paul’s longing and sorrow for this church. I can relate to how his heart hurts for them as they believe lies and are being deceived by untruth. I feel this in my bones! It’s like he is talking to our world, our families, our friends, our churches right now. When I hear stories of people who completely turn around in their sin to follow Christ, gosh it does so much for me and my faith. I need to keep that in perspective. I know from the miracles and movement I am seeing in my own family that God is working. We are told that His timing is perfect. I don’t get that. I’ll be honest, ’cause it seems like He could move a little quicker to my human understanding, but seriously, who am I to question God? His timing is a mystery I will never understand. But I am grateful for the movement I see in my family, with my youngest daughter seeking a relationship with her family, with my oldest daughter being gracious and forgiving to her sister, and for the excellent conversation I had with my son yesterday where I could share all of this, in God-language, and he rejoiced with me! Thank you, Lord, for moving in our family and working on us to make us whole again.

    I will be revisiting the Romans passage again today when I have time. So much in there that I want to sit with. I see this happening in our country so vividly and I want to reflect on it a bit more.

    I would like to suggest a Relatable podcast episode for those of you who are interested in learning more about abortion and how Christians can be informed about what is going on in this area. It is number 1051. It’s quite long (1 hour and 28 minutes) so you might want to spread it out, but if you are interested in hearing a really good interview, it’s worth a listen.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Thanks Laura..I feel the same, and I am so happy though that God is trying to shed some light through this time of doubt of the world by bringing those glimpses of His work with your family! The state of our country saddens me to the bones as well, and especially the subject of abortion. How they see it so differently than Christians…wait, so many Christians even vote for “healthcare!” (I love how things are renamed to twist it…but that is just what the devil does..same with homosexual to make it sound like two people in love..what’s the problem?)! It’s a big problem. It is against God. Oh gosh…get off your soap box Rhonda J!!

      But I love that you speak truth and your heart Laura!! I wish we could be “friends” outside of here but I know you are not on social media..BUT maybe you could do what a few of our She’s do, they only are on FB to be in our group there?! Would love to “see” you and be able to message each other in messenger! Think about it! And Laura and Searching too! :))

    2. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Laura – praise God for how He is working in your family, I have been praying for you all for quite a while now. It gives me hope that one day I will see God moving in the hearts of my two adult prodigal sons, and that my future daughter in law will come to know Christ!

  19. TheBestIsYetToCome says:

    Good morning, I am a Foster Mom and I would love prayer! We have a huge court date coming up September 6 and I in a quandary if I am to write a letter to the judge and if so, what I should articulate. It’s a very delicate balance, and I want to be led by the Lord, not my desire to please people. Ty!!❤️

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Prayers!

    2. Mercy says:

      praying for you that the wisdom of God will flow through and may you have favors and strength for the task ahead.

  20. Erica Chiarelli says:

    Our victory is in Christ alone. Hallelujah and thanks be to God who we always triumph in! To Him be all glory and honor and power and praise!!

  21. Deb says:

    Victory comes through Christ alone! Amen and Amen

  22. Lanie H says:

    I have had a revelation of sorts of the idea of sonship and being born again. So when you are born you have half your mom’s DNA, half your dad’s. And so Jesus literally had at least half of the father living in him, interwoven into his DNA. So when Christ says you must be born again, it’s like we are re-entering the womb with half of our DNA and then half the DNA of Christ. Yesterday, Romans 8 said that THE spirit testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children. So today when you read Paul saying I am in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, it just makes sense to me ! Yesterday I had a God moment where I was scared and praying to God and he said “I did not give you a spirit of fear” and right then “Fear is not future” by maverick city came on the radio. Praying that I and all of you can even partially grasp what it means to have the DNA of Christ living in us.

    1. Laura says:

      Love this. I feel God making so many things clear to me through these scriptures right now as well. What a blessing!

  23. Mari G says:

    Learn to look for what is here, rather than what is missing….this really spoke to me today. Praying to live more like Jesus.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes so true..I need to look to what is there in a broader sense..in the country today, rather than all the crazy!

    2. Gwineth52 says:

      Yes, Mari G.
      Resonates with me too!!

  24. Aimee D-R says:

    Amen

  25. Danielle Beatty says:

    ❤️

  26. searching says:

    Remembering the lost in our lives and praying for them, sisters, who have “who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator” Romans 1:25 and v. 22 “22 Professing to be wise, they became fools”

    Lord, may each of us cling to You and Your truth, which means clinging to Christ who is The Truth.

    LACEY BANKHEAD – praying your mom’s recovery goes well and that she works through her PT with determination & commitment ❤️

    TERESA DONLEY ❤️ don’t you just love that high, lonesome sound?! It calls to me as well, from family roots through the Appalachians and Deep South.

    CEE GEE ❤️
    RHONDA J ❤️
    TRACI GENDRON – continuing to pray

    1. Michelle P says:

      Amen!! ❤️

    2. Cee Gee says:

      Amen! ❤

    3. Allison Bentley says:

      This verse (25) jumped out at me too!!! Oh how I listen to the lies!!!

  27. Maria Baer says:

    She’s, I am kindly asking for your prayers. Over the past few nights I’ve had some really weird dark dreams that are just affecting my sleep. Not oddly, this week I started reading Scripture and saying prayers of protection over my family and our home, before going to bed— which is not something I normally do; instead, I watch a movie or scroll social media.

    The dreams are dark and I’ve had to do some serious spiritual warfare, you can call it, in those dreams. In the dreams, I find myself battling with prayer. Interestingly, when I wake up, I feel like I’ve been battling, but also at peace. However, I’m tired and I need some rest. My mom, the ultimate prayer warrior, thinks I need to lean into this moment and continue to pray for discernment of what this all means. But I also need some sleep. I hope this is not an odd request. Thank you in advance. ❤️

    1. Searching says:

      Praying, MARIA, for sleep, peace, discernment in this. ❤️

    2. Michelle P says:

      Hi Maria. I have experienced this to some degree throughout my walk with the Lord. I understand you feeling tired and pray and believe God will restore you to full sleep. I think it is wise to reach out for prayer.
      Lord God, thank you for Maria. Thank you that she serves you and loves you. Thank you for her mother who is a constant intercessor. It is not easy to carry others burdens in that way.
      Lord God, please give Maria the wisdom she needs to fight. The battle belongs to You. Help her stand firm in Your Word, which is our battle armor – offense and defense. Help her remember Ephesians 6- and pray on her armor when the enemy tries to steal, kill, and destroy. Thank you God that she is an overcomer, because You have overcome Jesus. I speak life and hope over her and pray for the discernment she needs to walk this through. Help her see that You are with her, fighting her battle on her behalf. Thank you, Jesus, for your mercy, protection, and grace. Thank you. We love you! Amen.

      1. Maria Baer says:

        Oh dear Michelle, your prayer brought tears to my eyes. Thank you, sister.

        1. Michelle P says:

          ❤️❤️❤️❤️

    3. Lanie H says:

      Maria I will certainly pray that God give you rest! I have been here so many times. Before I got pregnant I would have these dreams that an enemy would literally come and steal from me, I was always too late, and then it evolved and my mom was there helping me hide and protect, and then right before I got pregnant the dreams shifted, I would call out for help and another woman (random women, this was a recurring dream I had) came and fought with me and we won!! I believe that was other she’s praying for me and God building my bravery. I didn’t need to run and hide I could stand and fight. And then like you, I had a few where the holy Spirit was there and told me to use the word of God. I said I didn’t know, and then all the sudden I was reciting parts of the Bible put loud that legitimately I don’t know! It was crazy! The dreams have stopped thank God, but I believe they helped me build my bravery and my confidence in prayer and God’s word, so I pray the same will happen for you!

      1. Maria Baer says:

        LANIE H. Thank you for your words! Yes, some of the dreams include my mom and she is praying with me. It’s interesting because I always feel I’m not eloquent in my prayers, but in these dreams, the prayers just flow, like Scripture did for you. I am feeling your prayers. Thank you.

    4. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying

    5. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Maria, no request is ever odd! And I will agree with your mom, you absolutely should continue to pray for discernment and for your dark dreams to subside and allow you sleep. ❤️

    6. Allison Bentley says:

      Sending prayers over you!!!

    7. Mercy says:

      Father, we join hands to break the warfare in dreams that robs the rest of our dear sister. We command it to break in Jesus’ Name. Father we pray for restoration of dreams, the flow of communication, insights and visions to be released back to her, and good rest.

  28. Kelly (NEO) says:

    We “allow ourselves to be enslaved by untrue stories or objects of false hope.”
    .
    The world is full of bright shiny objcts that are merely distractions to turn our eyes from the Lord.
    .
    Lord, I pray that Your Spirit would help me keep my gaze to remain on You.
    .
    LACEY BANKHEAD – praying all went well with your mom’s surgery
    .
    SHARON JERSEY GIRL – praying Jeff handles the radiation well.
    .
    TRACI GENDRON – continued prayers for your family.
    .
    SARAH D. – praying your “meet the teacher” day goes well.
    .
    SEARCHING – continuing to pray for your pain to subside

    1. Searching says:

      Thank you, KELLY. ❤️

      And yes, those bright, shiny objects can distract us like a 2-year old in a candy store. May we all remember that the world’s lures are the evil one’s version of smoke and mirrors, disguising the path leading to destruction.

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        Amen..So true! Lord, keep my eyes on you!

    2. Cee Gee says:

      I saw a handwritten sign hanging on tne wall of a home on an older home renovation show recently. It said simply, “Keep your eyes on Jesus.” I was thrilled that the camera picked that up and that it made ‘the cut’!
      ~
      How’s the work situation going – any new hires?

  29. Stephanie Hudson says:

    Love today’s verses and devotional teaching. It really is easy – to become consumed with outward focuses….instead of pursuing Jesus and an inward transformation. I pray that I can cling to Him….run toward Him, and never look back. It scares me because I fail every single day.

    1. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Stephanie you are not alone – we all fail, daily…But God, He is full of mercy and grace – it’s endless!

    2. Margaret W says:

      Remember, his perfect love casts out fear. ❤️

  30. Mary Ann Graves says:

    Amen

  31. Sally B. says:

    Nothing can snatch us from the hand of Jesus – praise be to God! Father, help us keep our eyes firmly on You and not the temptations of the world. Only then can we find joy and glorify You. (And make it through the trials of this life!:)

    1. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Yes! Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. ❤️

  32. Tricia C says:

    Lord, we need you so desperately. Forgive us for wavering, when you have shown us such great Love. Why would we want to look anywhere else? Thank you, Lord. In Your Precious and Holy Name, Amen.

    Have a blessed weekend, Dear Sisters. May you know the presence of our Savior.
    Tricia

    1. Maria Baer says:

      Amen ❤️❤️❤️

    2. Rhonda J. says:

      I copied that down for my own prayer today, ty!

    3. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      ❤️

  33. Tina says:

    Victory comes through Christ alone.
    .
    In Christ alone, my hope is found
    He is my light, my strength, my song
    This Cornerstone, this solid ground
    Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
    What heights of love, what depths of peace
    When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
    My Comforter, my All in All
    Here in the love of Christ I stand
    In Christ alone, who took on flesh
    Fullness of God in helpless babe
    This gift of love and righteousness
    Scorned by the ones He came to save
    ‘Til on that cross as Jesus died
    The wrath of God was satisfied
    For every sin on Him was laid
    Here in the death of Christ I live, I live
    There in the ground His body lay
    Light of the world by darkness slain
    Then bursting forth in glorious Day
    Up from the grave He rose again
    And as He stands in victory
    Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me
    For I am His and He is mine
    Bought with the precious blood of Christ
    No guilt in life, no fear in death
    This is the power of Christ in me
    From life’s first cry to final breath
    Jesus commands my destiny
    No power of hell, no scheme of man
    Can ever pluck me from His hand
    Till He returns or calls me home
    Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.
    .
    This beautiful song from Stuart Townend, came to mind as I read the study..
    Says it all, I think!
    BUT GOD..
    AMEN.
    .
    Feeling overwhelmed with life at the moment.. BUT GOD, I feel His presence, His love and comfort.. it is well, even if..
    .
    Happy Friday dear hearts, as always, covered in love, hugs and prayers for a God blessed day for you all..♥️

    1. Tricia C says:

      Love and prayers for you, Dear Tina. Have a blessed weekend!

    2. Rita W says:

      Good Morning Tina! What is the title of that song?

      1. Searching says:

        In Christ Alone ❤️

    3. Searching says:

      So much truth in these words, sister! ❤️ May we both lean on Him through these overwhelming times in our lives.
      “For I am His and He is mine
      Bought with the precious blood of Christ
      No guilt in life, no fear in death
      This is the power of Christ in me”

    4. Kelly (NEO) says:

      ❤️ that hymn.
      Tina, praying that you can take a few deep breaths today.

      1. Meme Faye says:

        Dear Tina-That hymn popped in my head this morning, too! Thanks for sharing! Praying God’s peace for you today!

    5. Sherry says:

      Praying for peace for you today, Tina!

    6. Jane K says:

      Praying for you this morning, Tina. May our Lord increase His joy and peace in you during this time of need

    7. Laura says:

      Tina, this is one of my all time favorite hymns! I found the first verse printed on wood at a little shop one time just at a moment when I needed this truth to run through my head. It hangs in my bedroom to this day. Thank you for sharing. Praying that life calms down for you!

    8. Rhonda J. says:

      This is the song that came to my mind immediately as well! It is a beautiful, soul piercing son!

    9. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Morning Tina! … one of my favorite songs! I saw the Getty’s in concert this past December, it was amazing – and to hear this song song by thousands of people gathered for this event, it was like a piece of heaven!!

    10. Cee Gee says:

      Tina, thank you for taking time to share this beautiful hymn in a time when you feel overwhelmed by life. I have been missing you! Praying for a respite from whatever is weighing you down. Love and hugs! ❤

    11. Adrienne says:

      My fave version of that song is by Travis Cottrell. I love the dynamics when Christ bursts forth. ❤️

  34. Megan Weyandt says:

    ♥️♥️♥️