Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:1-2, John 20:1-31, Acts 1:6-11
After you finish reading today’s scriptures, come back and use the blurb and question here to dig deeper into the themes of faith, hope, obedience, and suffering. Join your fellow Bible readers in the comments to reflect and chat about what you’re learning!
The proof of our hope is the resurrected Christ, the incarnate God who walked on earth and turned His own sorrow at the cross into the joy of reunification with His people. When we turn the weight of our suffering over to Him, He gives us the hope of His resurrection and His ascension—a reminder for weary hearts who need to rely on what His love and power have done and a promise that He will come again.
Do you have a favorite verse, song, or quote that reminds you of your hope in Christ and encourages you when challenges come up? If so, share it in the comments!
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375 thoughts on "The Nature of Faith"
In Christ Alone sung by Christina Grimmie
Too Good to Not Believe – Cody Carnes and Brandon Lake
In Jesus Name- Katy Nichole
Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Peace by Bethel Music.
This song continually reminds me of the peace that God gives us when we put our faith in Him. Faith and peace are directly related. You cannot have true peace without having faith in the one who gives it. We trust that he will guide our steps. We then receive peace about life, knowing it is in God’s hands.
I have so many songs but my two favorite are firm foundation (He won’t) but Maverick City Music and Wait on You by Maverick city music and elevation worship!
You never let go – Matt Redman
Seasons Change – United Pursuit, Michael Ketterer
My Jesus by Anne Wilson
God is in this Story – Katy Nichole & Big Daddy Weave
Ever be by Bethel Music
Spirit Lead Me – Influence Music & Michael Ketterer
Scars by I am They is a song I put on to help shift my perspective when all I came see are the problems.
And Amy favorite verse is Isaiah 40:31, They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall rise on wings as eagles. They shall run and not faint.
My favorite verse is
Jeremiah 29:13 (NLT) If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me
My favorite song is By Your Side by Tenth Avenue North
Be still and know that I am God..in all the chaos and noise in this world and Christian’s being attacked daily by satan, God just wants us to slow down and set our minds and hearts on Him, and Him only!
Song All my boast is in Jesus by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa
Psalm 23 Psalms 23:1-6 NKJV
[1] The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. [3] He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. [4] Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.
I have so many, but this one is so special to.
I also love it when Jesus would tell his disciples – Oh ye of little faith ♥️ I can just picture Him saying this to me when I am stressed over something small.
Goodness of God by CeCe Winans…it’s the line “All my life you have been faithful, All my life you have been so so good”
In Jesus name by Katy Nichole
Great is by elevation worship
Exodus 14:14 “The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still”
Favorite verse that has gotten me through multiple hard times: Jeremiah 29:11 “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘Plans to prosper you, not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.’”
This one is one the wall at my church, I felt myself reading it over and over this weekend when I was struggling. It’s such a powerful verse!
Promises by Maverick City Music
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I surrender all, I surrender all, all to thee my blessed savior, I surrender all.
There is a new worship song I have been listening to called Authority by stars go dim. This shares that we are greater with the Lord.
Firm Foundation (He’s Gonna Make a Way) by Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, and Naomi Raine
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Psalms 23:1-6
God is always faithful, he will wait on us. Our qualifications for ourselves our not the same as Gods. He uses ordinary things through his promises.
Firm Foundation by Anthem Worship
Matthew 14:31 “o you of little faith, why did you doubt me?”
It’s a good reminder that even in unknown circumstances, have faith. God already has your life planned, why do you question it?
Psalm 139:1-4
You have searched me, Lord,
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you, Lord, know it completely.
This verse is always encouraging to me because it reassures me that God knows me completely, and still chooses to love me and called me into His kingdom. Oh how undeserving am I!
My life verse for when life is hard is Psalm 18:1-3, 6
I love you LORD my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies.
In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice, my cry came before him, into his ears.
Destined for greatness by Kevin Lemons and Higher Calling
My favorite verse is Phillippians 4:13, which says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” No matter what I’m going through God is always there.
Zephaniah 3:17- The Lord, your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you; He will quiet you with His love. He will rejoice over you with singing. 
Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord is the one who will go before you. He will be with you;he will not leave you or abandon you. Do not be afraid or discouraged. ” this reminds me that I am never alone and He is faithful to always be with me
Meredith Andrew’s after all
My favorite verse that reminds me of my faith is Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own”.
2 Cor. 4:16-18 and a song I love is Lord from Sorrow Deep I Call (Matt Boswell & Matt Papa)
Ephesians 4-10
4 But3 God, being rrich in mercy, sbecause of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even twhen we were dead in our trespasses, umade us alive together with Christ—vby grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and wseated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable xriches of his grace in ykindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For zby grace you have been saved athrough faith. And this is bnot your own doing; cit is the gift of God, 9 dnot a result of works, eso that no one may boast. 10 For fwe are his workmanship, gcreated in Christ Jesus hfor good works, iwhich God prepared beforehand, jthat we should walk in them.Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
—Isaiah 30:18
O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way.
—1 Kings 8:23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
—Galatians 5:22–23
Hebrews 10:19 – 39 always encourages me, especially verse 23 which says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.”
Psalms 16:8 “I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” I have this verse on my phone’s Home Screen to see daily.
Almost 6 months ago the life of my family was shaken when the ministry we were working for let us go with no warning. We were severely hurt by this ministry and leader while serving there (it was a VERY toxic environment that we were praying and looking to escape out of). Being let go with no reasoning and no fault of our own, my family and I were now jobless in a new city and state that we had just moved to a few months prior. My husband and I were unemployed for 3 full months. Every job posting and interview come back empty. During this time we knew we had to trust God. He had never left us nor forsaken us before so why would he start now? I continued to remember that “I’ve never seen the righteous forsaken nor his children begging for bread.” During that time Psalms 126:5, “Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of JOY.” was what I held on to. Songs like Firm Foundation and I Trust in God became the anthem of our home in that season. It wasn’t until we had an interview with a new church (the church we now call home), and I remember leading worship there and the Lord speaking to me saying, “You can trust me. I am a trustworthy God. You and I have history,” and it took everything inside of me not to cry like a baby in that moment. Everything that we had been praying for in that season God saw us through, down to the detail. God is faithful!
Luke 1:45, psalms 27:13-14, Romans 12:12!
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
Joshua 1:9, got me through the dark times when I was extremely sick, in the hospital- back in 2020 with Covid.
Any worship music but the elevation song I think it’s I trust in God and jaylah mentioned above too.
My hope built on nothing less than Jesus blood in righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholey, lean on Jesus name. On Christ, the solid rock I stand all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand!
“I sought the Lord, and he heard, and he answered” on repeat
Same God by Elevation Worship, whenever I need a little extra help in faith I turn on the radio and it always plays
Shoulders by For King and Country has gotten me through a lot of difficult seasons where my faith was dry. It reminds me that my help comes from the Lord and that he is carrying me the whole way.
I Can Only Imagine by Mercy Me gets me every time. I can’t listen to it or read the lyrics without crying, it speaks so deeply to my soul. I long for the time I will see the Lord face to face and worship Him forever and ever.
I’m always struck by the song and the story of It is Well with My Soul. That will calm me down and remind me of where I stand with God.
It is well with my soul. Amen. Love this song. We dedicated it to our first born.
Also the chorus is fitting for faith as well
Jesus, I was tossed in the water
But I never went under for you were
Always on time
Jesus, when I went through the fire
You were right there beside me
Cause you were always on time
You were always, always, always on time
Come Jesus Come by Cece Winans is a song that will bring me into the right perspective every time. We also recently sang Always on time by Elevation at church and I loved the bridge because there is so much truth there.
There’s never been a day, never been a minute, never been a moment that you weren’t in it. There’s never been a time that you didn’t see me through God. I worship you.
Philippians 4:13
Romans 5:3-5 ❤️
Romans 12:12
2 Corinthians 12:9 always gets me through any struggle…
“My grace is sufficient for you. For my power is made perfect in weakness.”
It’s such a comforting reminder to know that you can literally endure anything because Christ is right there with you.
I love “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”! It is especially beautiful sung by mass choirs (we even sang it at my wedding)…a glimpse of us singing to God in His throne room?? Gives me chills just thinking about it!
Gratitude by I am They. Brings me to tears every time. It’s just a constant remind and hope of how much I have even in hard times. Without Jesus I truly don’t understand how people have hope in this world.
My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less
Lyrics
VERSE 1
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name
CHORUS
On Christ the solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand
VERSE 2
When darkness hides His lovely face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil
VERSE 3
His oath, His covenant, His blood
Support me in the whelming flood
When all around my soul gives way
He then is all my hope and stay
VERSE 4
When He shall come with trumpet sound
Oh may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless to stand before the throne
Words by Edward Mote (1834). Music by William B. Bradbury (1863). Public Domain (adm. by Integrity Music). Sovereign Grace Music, a division of Sovereign Grace Churches. All rights reserved.
Ditto Robin!
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.
Psalm 143:8
Goodness of God…. You know how always hear your life will flash before your eyes, at death? The first time I heard this song every time God was there for me that I hadn’t even realized flashed by me and I broke…. Then I got it!!!
Hold on to me by Lauren Daigle this one always encourages me when I feel like I am not enough or everything is falling apart. It reminds me that even when I feel like I am not holding on to Jesus enough, He is holding on to me!
Gotta Have Faith – Emma Nissen
Who You Say I Ma by Hillsong
COME ON MY SOUL
REND COLLECTIVE
FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU SAYS THE LORD PLANS TO PROSPER YOU & NOT TO HARM YOU PLANS TO GIVE YOU A HOPEFUL FUTURE! JER. 29:11
My favorite verse is Hebrews 11:1 it just speaks volumes everytime i read it
“He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.”
Psalm 62:2 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/psa.62.2.ESV
Fill Me Up by Cèjae is one of my favorites. It reminds me to keep my eyes focused on Christ and that Holy Spirit is my running mate in this race. I ask Him to fill me up and pour into me all the time so that I am full and too consumed with godliness rather than the world and everything that comes to me in my day
Just as Good by Chris Renzema and Ellie Holcomb ❤️ this song was encouraging to me after experiencing being laid off, reminding me of God’s goodness, kindness and faithfulness still.
Firm Foundation is my favorite song when my faith is rocky. Listened to it non stop during the most trying time of my faith.
Even then by Micah Tyler
Living Hope by Phil Wickham
Goodness of God by Jenn Johnson.
In all that has happened to us, you have remained righteous; you have acted faithfully, while we acted wickedly. (Nehemiah 9:33 NIV)
I’ve been listening to Honey in the Rock and Holy Water lately and they have ministered to me.
Love honey in the rock!
“Everything was created through him; nothing—not one thing!— came into being without him. What came into existence was Life, and the Life was Light to live by. The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness; the darkness couldn’t put it out.”
John 1:3-5 MSG
https://bible.com/bible/97/jhn.1.3-5.MSG
God is not a man that He should lie, or a son of man that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act, or promise and not fulfill. Numbers 23:19
“Anchored in Jesus”
“Standing on the Promises”
“Same God”
“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly lean on Jesus name.
When darkness veils His lovely face
I rest on His unchanging Grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil
His oath, His covenant, His blood
Support me in the whelming flood
When all around my soul gives way
He then is all my hope and stay.
When He shall come with trumpet sound
O may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless to stand before the Throne!
On Christ the solid rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.
The song that has been playing on repeat in my head lately to help me is “I Will Carry You” by Ellie Holcomb
The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need. ❤️
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13 CSB
https://bible.com/bible/1713/rom.15.13.CSB
Hymn of Heaven by Phil Wickham
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:6-7.
❤️
“Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.” -Helen H. Lemmel
In Christ alone ❤️
a brand new song i have been listening to on repeat is the wonderful blood by tiffany hudson!!
“Let my soul be at rest again, for the Lord has been good to me. He has saved me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. And so I walk in the Lord’s presence as I live here on earth!”
Psalms 116:7-9 NLT
Great is thy Faithfulness ❤️
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jeremiah 29:11
My hope is built on nothing less ♥️
Yes!
Show Me Your Glory by Third Day
I love that song! ❤️
I believe by James Fortune. Because I truly believe that in every situation He is there with me and that I will come out on the other end better because of it. That during those times He did not leave me, nor forsake me. Even thought it may look one way, it really isn’t.
Philippians 4:6
You’ve Already Won by Shane and Shane
Better is one day song…reminds me that suffering is here but one day I will be in the presence of Jesus and be concerned with worshiping the one who defeated death and holds the keys to death, and writes the my name in the book of life, crowns me, gives me a new name, gives me fruit from the tree of life.
I have told you these things, so that in me you will have peace. In this world you will have touble, bit take heart, I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD!
This is mine too!
“Blessed is she who has believe that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her!” Luke 1:45
My favorite bible verse that has followed me over the years. I had it on my graduation cap in college, embroidered on my wedding handkerchief, and has gone full circle with my life presently with trying to conceive again after loss. It’s the tiny mustard seed God planted in me years ago when I first read the verse.
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Hymn of Heaven by Phil Wickham
Me too!!!❤️
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders let me walk upon the water wherever you would call me….
This song was my life song when my daughter was 2 and fighting for her life in the hospital. Hod brought me through that dark time and I enjoy every moment with her now. Even though 13 is a tough age I reflect on that time and the prayers we prayed over her
Today, October 15, 2024, is Joni Eareckson Tada’s 75th birthday. It is almost unheard of for a quadriplegic to live to the age of 75. Joni has lived for over 50 years in a wheelchair since a diving accident changed her life forever. Through that time God has used her to reach people with the hope of Jesus and His loved for all people – especially the disabled. If you’re not familiar – type in her name and be amazed at how God has used this woman throughout the world.
A quote she often uses, “God permits what He hates to accomplish what He loves.” This quote has helped Joni in her suffering, as has many others, myself included. It also is a beautiful explanation of the crucifixion and death of His own Son in order to reconcile us with God.
My favorite verse that I repeat when I need comfort- “From the end of the earth I call to You, when my heart is overwhelmed and weak; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I [a rock that is too high to reach without Your help].”
Psalms 61:2 AMP ❤️
“Surrounded (This is how I fight my battles)” is my war cry! It gives me hope and strength when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
I have a question. Since Thomas did not have faith but only believed by sight, was he saved?
Laura, great question! Yes Thomas was “saved.”
All the disciples were believing by “sight” at this point as Jesus was with them. He confessed with his mouth that Jesus is Lord and God as a result of the belief in his heart.
I believe the answer is yes. He asked for what the other disciples had already been given. When Jesus appeared to them the first time he showed them his hands and feet. Jesus invited Thomas to touch his wounds as Thomas had said he needed to believe. No where does it say he touched them. Jesus met Thomas where he was in his faith. Thomas then proclaims to Jesus, “my Lord and My God”. Many believe that later in life Thomas was martyred for his faith.
We have the stories of all 12 apostles (except John the Beloved, including Matthias) were martyred for their faith and preaching. Their is documentation that Thomas was very effective and made it as far as India.
Thank you Jesus for meeting each of us where we are at ❤️
*There :)
I Speak Jesus by Charity Gayle and Steven Musso makes me cry each time knowing that only Jesus can heal and save my son!
Sisters, thank you for continuing to pray for Victor, my son and our family❤️❤️
I love that song too, Aleida!!❤️
It was on my playlist during recovery from knee replacement surgery
I love that song tooooooo!
Continued prayers for you all!❤
❤️love this song and so many that others mentioned! Continuing to pray Aleida!
Romans 15:13
fave!
“Just As I Am” makes me cry every time we sing it in church. Knowing that I am welcomed with open arms just as I am is the most comforting knowledge to rest in! It encourages me to come to Christ with all of my burdens and sins just as these people mentioned in Hebrews did. They were broken and were mended by God and used in amazing ways through His power! I pray that I can also come broken and still be used by God!
I can’t with all of these comments. So wonderful. God is so awesome! I just love reading through all of these comments and these testimonies. You ladies are incredible!❤️
As are you Tricia! Hugs..❤
I am loving the song “That’s who I praise” by Brandon Lake. It’s an amazing song about how God has done amazing things through different individuals like, Daniel, Paul and many more. I have been listening to that song on repeat!
I LOVE that song too! I need to see the lyrics to sing along though, lol!
Isaiah 43:18-19
18 “Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
19 See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
and streams in the wasteland.
If you have Amazon Music, I love listening to the Acoustic Christian playlist! The song “Counting my Blessings” by Seph Schlueter is a favorite right now!
I will have to check that out! Thanks!
Wow so many great songs and verses! So uplifting to read! Two of my favorite verses from Isaiah:
Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Two of my favorite, too, Nicole! Thanks for the reminder! ❤
Nicole, these verses are special are they not?❤
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; Not as the world gives to I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27
When the storms in life come, this verse keeps me grounded in Him. If I lean in to Him and focus on Him, during the storms, His peace never fails to comfort me. He protects my heart and comforts me when my eyes are on Him and not my circumstances. My favorite song that really puts this verse into perspective is Firm Foundation ❤️
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Romans 15.13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit
I have been clinging to Good Plans by Red Rocks Worship the past couple of months! “Surely your goodness & mercy will follow after me. Fear will not find me, I’ll be dwelling in the house of God!”
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Ashlie, those are mighty fine words..
Surely your goodness & mercy will follow after me. Fear will not find me, I’ll be dwelling in the house of God!”❤
Reflecting on the second part of verse 1 “Faith is… the proof [or evidence] of what is not seen,” has me thinking of all the ways faith, God in us, IS seen – our actions, our behaviors, our attitude. The shaping of our hearts, minds, and spirits isn’t a “seen” process but the fruit of it is. In faith, people change from harmful ways, relationships restored, bold acts of courage, generosity, kindness, etc. I know when there is a spot of good news about people helping others, I’ll half-jokingly say that it “restored my faith in humanity”, because it is seen evidence of the God-given good in people, and people acting on and in their faith. Praise be to God for the fruits of faith that is seen in ourselves and others. Brings Colossians 1:21 – 23 to mind.
Great thoughts! Thanks for sharing! ❤
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Isaiah 43:2 is one of my favorite verses. I have it as my watch face so that I never forget:
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be schorched; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Love that one, too! Watch face…cool!!! ❤
Cathy,these are mighty fine words of promise, are they not? Makes you believe in the Lords protection and promises!
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Firstly, how beautiful is it that Mary didn’t recognize Jesus by His outward appearance but by His voice?! Makes me think of John 10:27. So beautiful. I pray myself and each of us will listen and hear the Lord and know it is Him when He calls our name.
A bit cliche, but Psalm 23 comes to mind any time I face a challenge. I love that God will never leave me.
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I love that! Thank you
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Romans 8:18 has been my favorite verse for several years now! The reminder that our suffering leads to glory, specifically God’s glory, has often brought me comfort when I am struggling.
Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever <3
Great is Thy Faithfulness always causes my heart to hope. New mercies each day keep me hanging in there.
I also love this song! I sing with my children this one :)
“O afflicted one, storm-tossed and not comforted, behold, I will set your stones in antimony, and lay your foundations with sapphires” (Isaiah 54:11).
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“In righteousness you shall be established, you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear, and from terror, for it shall not come near you. If anyone stirs up strife, it is not from me, whoever stirs up strife with you, shall fall because of you. Behold I have created the smith who blows the fire of coals and produces a weapon for its purpose, I have also created the ravager to destroy; no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their vindication from me, declares the LORD (Isaiah 54:14-17 ESV).
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“And it shall come to pass in the day that the Lord shall give thee rest from thy sorrow, and from thy fear, and from the hard bondage wherein thou was made to serve” Isaiah 14:3
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Psalm 23.
Psalm 34.
Remember He who promised is able to perform. Thank you Father for your words.
Be blessed dear sisters.
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Love theses verses and also Great is thy faithfulness!❤️
My favorite song, especially in challenging times, is Firm Foundation. That song is actually in my heart all the time. The lyrics are a beautiful reminder that when we stand with Jesus, we can weather the storms. Similarly, my favorite verse that brings me hope and faith is Psalm 27:4-5 “4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.” I have always loved the strong yet tender imagery of these two verses, and the peace it fills me with.
Yes Psalms 27:5 is comforting and brings to mind Psalms 91:1-2.
Maria, I love that verse, too, and I am thankful you have it to cling to these days! Continued prayers! ❤❤
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Lamentations 3:19-23 NIV
[19] I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. [20] I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. [21] Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: [22] Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. [23] They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
This is my verse at the moment. I love it because it acknowledges that two, supposedly conflicting, things can be true at once – life is hard AND God is good.
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Very true❤️
Favorite song of the moment- He Will Hold Me Fast
I love that one too!
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.””
John 10:27-30 NLT
https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.10.27-30.NLT
Amazing by my pastor, Mike Jr and John 3:16
I heard Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus this morning, and I’ve had it on repeat for the last 1/2 hour! I love the Shane and Shane version. My mama heart could use prayer. After several weeks of my son Hudson not abiding my our rules (basically just come home at night), we have told him he needs to move out. He doesn’t have any money saved,so he’s pretty much wasted the opportunity to live at home and save money, and is going to have to learn the hard way that he needs to grow up and get his act together. We have offered him so many options that would be good for him, but he’s choosing a different, harder path.
Oh, Heather! Prayers for God’s protection over Hudson, but also peace for your heart and the strength to hang on during this transition. ❤❤
Thank you, Cee Gee. Hudson agreed to have dinner with us tomorrow night. Hoping to send him off on a positive note, with him knowing he is always welcome back
Praying for your mama heart, Heather❤
Thank you, Tina ❤️
Praying Heather!❤️
I read a quote from Paul Tripp recently: “No matter what you are facing and no matter how hard it is, you are never without divine grace to help you and divine love to comfort you.” I love this so much. Hebrews 4:16 “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
My go to song is “The God who stays” by Matthew West. This song hits me in different ways depending on what I’m going through.
My favorite verse is Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Yes, Kim!
Joshua 1:9 is reliable & relatable!
I love this verse! My go to when I was diagnosed with Myeloma last year. Offers such hope ❤️
How did I not include Joshua 1:9! One kf my memorized and most quoted! Thanks for including it! ❤
Philippines 4:13. I could do all things to Christ gives me strength. Read earlier, but ran out of time. Please pray as I have a really bad headache and I’m at work.
Praying for you Mari!
Praying your headache goes away, Mari. Much love.❤
Do you have a favorite verse, song, or quote that reminds you of your hope in Christ and encourages you when challenges come up?
Yep!!! Psalm 23 ❤️
There is so much hope and comfort in this Psalm. Especially when challenges come up or I’m in a dark place. Psalm 23 reminds me that the Lord is my shepherd, He leads me beside still waters,
He restores my soul,
He is with me when I walk through the valley of shadow and death,
He brings me comfort and prepares a table before in the presence of my enemies,
He anoints my head with oil,
because of Him goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
and finally when the time comes He will ensure that I dwell in His house forever.
How can I not write that promise on my heart ❤️?
Not sure if this will open Psalm 23 Leanne Crawford
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-dozWGowPN/?igsh=MTl4dzIybXAzejBnaw==
One of my current favorites
This song just recently released from my church, “The Wonderful Blood.” This song reminds me of my hope in Christ.
from Romans 8:38-39 — 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
THIS
This verse gives me “chills” every time i read it!
Yes! Amen!
This reading is blessing me. I needed this today
Also Morning Shes! What amazing testimony’s were shared yesterday in the chat! Wow I am so moved by all of your strength and trust in God.
I have so many favorite worship songs. One of my favorite songs is Same God by Elevation Worship. I sing Holy Spirit to my child as her lullaby. It got me through our time in the NICU.
Favorite verse: Romans 3:3-5 3 Not only so, but we[a] also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us
Hey Shes!
So many verses! So many songs! So many quotes!
So I just flipped back through the journal I’m using this morning & pulled this one.
“Nobody deserves anything good or bad,
it’s all Grace,
if you accepted that you might be able
to relax a little”.
Marilynne Robinson, from her novel “Jack”, who hears this from his father.
Sounds like a fitting phrase to get this day underway.
Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up on wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
This verse encourages me to trust in God’s timing and to find strength in waiting on Him
Yes, this Scripture also came to my mind. I needed it, recently ❤️
This has been my go to verse for 35 years.
For me Deuteronomy 31:8 has often been an encouragement. I’m never alone. God goes with me in battle.
I love to read over Psalm 143, written by David, one of my favorite verses is verse 8 – “Let me experience Your faithful love in the morning, for I trust in You. Reveal to me the way I should go because I long for You.”
So good.❤
Oh, wow, verses and songs! So so many and I am late here so I haven’t read previous shares… apologies for any duplicates!
The Psalms are the first I think of for verses about HOPE. Some of them are repeated not once, but multiple times.
I have shared my go-to verse many times. It gives me great comfort and hope:
Psalm 16:8
I know the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
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Psalm 43:5
Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!
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Psalm 33:22
Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone.
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Psalm 94:19
When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
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Jeremiah 29;11
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
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Romans 12:12
Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
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SONGS! Too many, but a few here:
*Even If by Mercy Me
*Living Hope by Phil Wickham
*Peace Be Still by Hope Darst
*All My Hope by Crowder
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Favorite lines from an old hymn:
My HOPE is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name. …
When he shall come with trumpet sound,
O may I then in him be found:
dressed in his righteousness alone,
faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ the Solid Rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand.
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I look forward to reading all of your comments! Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤❤
You took the words right out of my mouth!! “My Hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus blood and righteousness!”
So very thankful! ♥️
❤
I love that old hymn too! ❤️
❤
So, so good. For sure the only One on whom my Hope is built. Amen!❤
I will lift my eyes towards the mountains.Where will my help come from?
My help comes from Lord the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:2
Christ Jesus is the one who died,but even more,he has been raised, he also is at the right hand of God and intercede for us. Romans 8:34
I read this Psalm to my MIL when she was dying. She asked to hear it again.
My daughter is buried in the hill near my house.. These the words on her headstone..they are so precious to me!❤
Love this verse too! ❤️
Psalm 73: 21-28. This helped me through the pandemic quarantine and I continue to go back to it.
Also, Jeremiah 18:1-6. This is what I call my “anchor” verse that God gave me in college. The Holy Spirit has regularly brought that passage to mind over the years and it reminds me that God is working on me and making me more like Jesus.
I love Romans 8:18 “for I consider the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
I love Psalms 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saved those who are crushed in spirit”
“‘For I know the plans I have for you’, declares The Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’” -Jeremiah 29:11
‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.’ Rom 15:13
Although I can’t sing at all, music is often what deeply ministers to my heart. Countless hymns – In Christ Alone, Turn your Eyed Upon Jesus, Great is Thy Faithfulness, My Jesus I Love Thee, that list goes on. Songs from City Alight, Sovereign Grace Music, Shane & Shane, and Selah are solid in theology of word and content. A few others, Faithful One – Brian Doerksen, All my Hope is in Jesus – Crowder, Leaning -Matt Maher, Word of God Speak,Always Only Jesus – Mercy Me, Battle Belongs – Phil Wickham. I think most of us could list countless songs that have spoken to our hearts, brought us to our knees with hands lifted high. Music is such a blessing and often an anthem from the heart❤️
Amen! Thanks for sharing Wendy! Love all those songs!❤️ praying for you!
I want to highlight my favorite verse from today’s reading. John 20:29- “…Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.”
So many amazing songs that I think of when I need to feel god’s presence in day to day. One of the ones that yesterday’s reading made me think about is based on Isaiah 53:5 and it’s called “By His Wounds” by Mac Powell.
Love the Lord you God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all of your strength.
So Jesus said to the twelve, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life.”
John 6:67-68
The Lord is my Shepherd with the chorus – I will trust in you – was my anthem for a long time as I learned to trust God. And it still moves my heart.
Isaiah 43:1b-2, my baptism verse. “Fear not for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
And the verse he gave me in the midst of huge loneliness in the early days of my marriage – Isaiah 43:18-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now, it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.”
Love that verse, too! ❤
I meditate on Philippians 4:8 and read the Psalms. I also play Goodness of God, CeCe Williams!
I love that song! I had it on my playlist while recuperating from knee replacement surgery.
Yes, AZ!
What a praise song. Love me some CeCe!
I will indeed sing of the goodness of God ❤
❤️
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZFkFZAabfw
Highlands by Benjamin William Hastings
This song has carried me through my husband’s devastating cancer diagnosis and many other difficult moments. A beautiful song that still brings me to tears each time I listen.
I love that song too. It gives such a beautiful picture of our Lords love for us and the response we cannot help but have.
Thank you, Shes, for all the verses and songs! I have been writing them all down! They are so encouraging! The Goodness of God has been my song during this season of life. It makes me weep with gratitude every time. Psalms 27 has been on my heart. Blessings on you all today.
Me too, Jane!
It is Well has always been my favorite song. It seems to resonate with me in every stage of my life!
One of my favorite passages of scripture! …
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.”
1 John 3:1-3 NIV
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God lavished His live on us!! And not only that, when He appears we will be like Him, and – we will see Him as He is! I try to imagine that day, but have nothing to compare it to, so it’s really hard — but what a day of rejoicing that will be!
~~~~~~~~~~~~,
Look to the clouds – Jesus IS coming again!
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I don’t know how often I’ll be able to comment these next 10 days as we are away, but I will read your comments & prayer requests!
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Praise God for sisters you know you can call on anytime night or day to pray for you!! Thank you @ Tina, for being there, and praying for me 3:00 a.m. (EST) when I was wide awake and could not sleep & I reached out to you & you answered! What a comfort to know there is always someone there to pray!!
One good thing about my sleepless night – I prayed for as many of you as I could remember!!
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Have a blessed day – love you all! ❤️
So encouraging and very thankful for all of you!
Praying for you and Jeff as you travel. Have a wonderful and restful vacation. ❤️
Praying this is a time of great refreshing! Love you! ❤❤
Love right back, Sharon. Any time my dear, anytime..❤
Good morning She’s!
Name a favorite song?! I have 100’s!! Worship music stays on non-stop around me, in my car, and on earbuds when out and about! But it keeps me anchored in Christ through out the days. Music is balm for the hurt, joy in the good, and awareness when distracted. I love singing in corporate worship, I love singing in the house and car, and I love, love love singing in a small room in jail ministry. Too bad I don’t have a angelic voice! :/ But God- thankfully he doesn’t care, maybe the people that sit in front of me at church do though. Here are a few that get me through a rough patch-
Katy Nicole- Hold On
Casting Crowns- Praise You in the Storm
Mercy Me- Word of God Speak
Phil Wickham- Living Hope, Worthy of my Song, Psalm 23
Jeremiah 19:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Oh! I could also add the song we play at jail ministry a lot that reminds me of our hope…
“Trust in God” Elevation Worship
“Shout to the Lord” Darlene Zscheck
I love worship and same as you, I listen all the time. But I don’t have a singing voice:(
Singing voices are overrated.. It’s purity of heart, no matter how off key, is what God hears. To Him it’s music to His ears, liteally. Don’t deprive yourself a joy to sing to the Lord!!!!!❤
Beautiful, yet ..
One of my very favorite verses is Psalm 18:19 – He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. The Lord gave us the gift of our powerful minds and even when things are difficult we can go inward to that spacious place and be with him and seek his peace.
An older praise song “Here I am to Worship “ always has me shedding tears of joy while singing this part:
And I’ll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that cross.
Love that song… Love singing it, too, at church … or anywhere! ❤
Here I am to say that you are my God.. Beautiful!❤
Two things immediately popped into my head when I read today’s question.
One is my youngest daughter as we named her Lily Hope. Our life verse for her is Hebrews 6:19, but the passage surrounding it is verses 17-20:
“God wanted to show his unchangeable purpose even more clearly to the heirs of the promise, he guaranteed it with an oath, 18 so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. 19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain. 20 Jesus has entered there on our behalf as a forerunner, because he has become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.”
The next was this song by City Alight:
“Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me”
What gift of grace is Jesus, my redeemer
There is no more for heaven now to give
He is my joy, my righteousness, and freedom
My steadfast love, my deep and boundless peace
To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus
For my life is wholly bound to His
Oh, how strange and divine, I can sing: All is mine!
Yet not I, but through Christ in me
The night is dark but I am not forsaken
For by my side, the Saviour He will stay
I labour on in weakness and rejoicing
For in my need, His power is displayed
To this I hold, my Shepherd will defend me
Through the deepest valley, He will lead
Oh, the night has been won, and I shall overcome
Yet not I, but through Christ in me
No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven
The future sure, the price it has been paid
For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon
And He was raised to overthrow the grave
To this I hold, my sin has been defeated
Jesus now and ever is my plea
Oh, the chains are released, I can sing: I am free!
Yet not I, but through Christ in me
With every breath, I long to follow Jesus
For He has said that He will bring me home
And day by day I know He will renew me
Until I stand with joy before the throne
To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus
All the glory evermore to Him
When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:
Yet not I, but through Christ in me!
To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus
All the glory evermore to Him
When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:
Yet not I, but through Christ in me!
When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:
Yet not I, but through Christ in me!
Yet not I, but through Christ in me!
Yet not I, but through Christ in me!
Yet, not I but Christ through me!
Amen. ❤
Yes! Also love this song.
Jon Foreman’s music, especially this year’s album- In Bloom is like salve to my soul when I am feeling low
And P.S. I wanted to say AMEN to ALL sisters comments!
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Have a blessed day.
God likes to show me songs based on/featuring Psalm 23, exactly when I need to hear them. He’s been faithful to redeem that Psalm for me—I remember it being used a lot to comfort me when I lost my dad as a kid, and I grew to almost resent the words (if that makes sense). I’m glad He was faithful to help me overcome that and see the truth of those particular words.
Songs:
“Psalm 23” by Phil Wickham and Tiffany Hudson
“Psalm 23 (You Are Not Alone” by People & Songs
“Come What May (Acoustic+)” by We Are Messengers and Cory Asbury
Oh I lOVE Psalm 23 by Phil Wickham and Tiffany Hudson!! I have his CD in my car that I listen to non-stop!! SO good!!
Psalm 23 ( You are Not Alone ) by People & Songs is one of my favorites alone. SO powerful! “ Your spirit lives within me! So I will walk in your peace “
I have so many parts of scripture and songs & hymns running through my head. I can’t list them all.
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Let me just say this… they remind me that I believe in Him, who died to save me.
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And… My fave resurrection account is this one in John. When Mary is crying, and He calls her by name. Goosebumps. Every. Time. I’m just sayin’!
❤
❤ I am with you on that one, Adrienne..can you image your name being called by one who loves you, this much(outstretched arms).. The tears roll, just writing it.❤
Music is so important to me. I have a whole playlist of worship songs that is over 33 hours and counting. I’m sharing it here in case it is of interest. Happy to share it on FB as well.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7lNNKcFJqEkiLbA6Ycsrm4?si=lVG6EhcxTomA7LTIQPRAYA&pi=u-adAaxpd9QQWq
❤️
I currently have Overflow and Fighting for you on my mind which are both by Tenth Avenue North. I feel my great grandmother holding my hand. She died 8 years ago in 2016. She had spent her last few years in a retirement home, and when I was a little kid she had a house. My grandmother still has some of her old furniture. She didn’t make it to my high school graduation which is what I had predicted.
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19. This has walked with me in many times of life. I lost my mom to cancer 6 years ago and this was such a peace giving verse. She is resting with Jesus and I have hope in that. Jesus has always brought this and many other verses to mind when I need them. So thankful for the hope filled, peace giving, wonderful Savior we serve!
I have a reminder of that verse on my bookcase! ❤
These are so encouraging! I really like to meditate on Psalm 37. I try to think of it as feasting on Gods faithfulness. Take Courage by Kristene DiMarco and Goodness of God by Jenn Johnson have also been so helpful in times of suffering or discouragement. ❤️
In 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
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 pow’r of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
‘Til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
‘Til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand
Songwriters: Keith Getty, Stuart Townend. For non-commercial use only.
This is mine, as well!
Beautiful song ..❤
John 16:33:… In this world you will have tribulations, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
This verse has been my favorite since high school, when my “tribulations” were small and petty (but seemed huge at the time!) I have quoted this to myself over and over again as my problems got bigger and more complex.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ESV
[13] But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.
[14] For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.
[15] For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep.
[16] For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.
[17] Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.
[18] Therefore encourage one another with these words.
I love Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will be quiet in his love, he will rejoice over you with singing
I love this verse too, Caroline! ❤️
I love this one too. He delights in us, he quiets us, he sings over us.
Aren’t we so blessed to have the Bible at our fingertips for our daily walk with the Lord? And by songwriters, singers and musicians who are inspired by the Lord and His Word to create songs of praise and encouragement? Thank you, Lord.
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I could just say ditto to what’s been shared already :)
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The first part of Deuteronomy 30:20 is such a good reminder for what’s important … that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days.
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And songs! I thought, how could I choose, and then had a few pop into my mind:
My Life is in You by Daniel Gardner – more of a chorus really, a bit of a lively reminder
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Peace Be Still, written by Hope Darst, Andrew Holt, and Mia Fieldes
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And the chorus to Where could I go, 1940, JB Coats.
Where could I go? Oh, where could I go
Seeking a refuge for my soul?
Needing a friend to save me in the end,
Where could I go but to the Lord?
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Thank you, sisters, for testimony after testimony yesterday. Such an encouragement as I read about God’s faithfulness and your faith in Him no matter the circumstances.
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Praying, sisters, for LAUREN, MADISON SCHAACK, CARRIE KAVAN, SOPHIE M, CANDYCE ABBOTT, WENDY B and others.
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Continuing to pray for those affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton, still so much restoration and clean up needed all while people are grieving the loss of loved ones and trying to mentally/emotionally grasp the physical devastation and loss of property, businesses and jobs.
Praying for a friend who, for lack of a better description, seems to have lost their way along with common sense in the aftermath of the storms – suddenly making seemingly concrete plans to abandon their business (physically untouched by storm) and move 1,000+ miles away. A 180 change in 48 hours.
Saying ditto to your whole comment, prayer s, and praises! I shared Peace be Still, also! Re: friend – sounds like PTSD and will be praying. Two storms of that intensity in less than a month… so hard! I love you, sister! ❤
Much love, dear searching.❤
“The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He renews my life; He leads me along the right paths for His name’s sake.”
Psalms 23:1-3
Psalm 23 is SO GOOD!!!
Take Courage by Bethel Music is one that I always listen to during challenging times. God is there with you in the waiting. Whether waiting on a test result, a baby to be born, a relationship to be reconciled, Jesus is right there holding your hand.
When I was pregnant with my 2nd baby, I had a blood clot risk which put my at maternal fetal medicine. It was also 2020 so just chaos and madness. I used to go on walks and pray and listen to this song. While we didn’t know what would happen, HE was there with me in the waiting. Baby girl was born and totally healthy. I did not have a blood clot, praise Jesus.
I love reading all the songs and scripture references. What an encouragement!
One Day ( when we all get to heaven) by Matt Redman.
Hands down “Is He Worthy”
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Gotta run…still trying to get through yesterday’s amazing testimonies❣️
Hands down?! :) I immediately thought “How can I choose?!”
I’ll have to give “Is He worthy” a listen
I love reading Scripture but, I think when I’m that space…I need worship to wash over me when my eyes just can’t
It depends on what type of trial (but a few)…
“My Redeemer Lives” Nicole C. Mullen
“My Jesus” Anne Wilson
“Hold Me Now” Kirk Franklin
…my listening session usually needs a few in a row.
I love you Ladies. Turning on “Is He Worthy?” and starting my day ❤️
Yes! My Redeemer Lives, how did I forget that one??
Thank you, FOSTER MAMA
Foster Mama.. HE is worthy, worthy of it all… Amen!
Ahh, so lovely to ‘see’ you here.. Always a pleasure, my dear! Hoping life is being kind to you and yours.❤
On Christ the Solid Rock I stand! This song reminds me that everything else is sinking sand!
This is the song that first came to my mind too. I take my stand on Christ, who cannot be shaken.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
James 1:2-4 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/jas.1.2-4.ESV
There is a scripture and song for every season!!
Right now, I’m loving:
SHALOM by Bridge Worship feat. Setnick Sene
You are a fortress for the weak
My covering
You are the refuge I seek
I’m under your wings
Shalom! Shalom! Shalom! You’re my Peace.
Shalom! Shalom! Shalom! Over me.
Thank you for sharing this! Beautiful and encouraging.
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.
I LOVE this song! That last verse…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 stand!
1 Peter 5:7&10, Hebrews 4:14-16, Romans 8:38-39
In Christ Alone, Peace Be Still -Lauren Daigle, Weathered – Bethel, Son of Suffering – Bethel, I’ve Witnessed it – Passion
Living Hope by Phil Wickham makes me cry every time I sing it
I love this song! Thank you for the reminder ❤️
Oh Tina, I’m in tears reading your words. He’s is so faithful! He never leaves us or foresakes us. What a message of hope.
Be faith…But God.
God doesn’t make mistakes.
“But for me it is good to draw near God; I have made the Lord my refuge that I may tell of all your works.” Psalm 73:28
I struggle with anxiety and panic attacks. One song that is my anthem is “Tremble”. When I am paralyzed with fear, I cling to the reminder that the darkness trembles at the mention of His name.
Yes! We just sang this song at church on Sunday—it is so powerful!
Psalm 143 is one of my favorites. I remember the number because I once read about Fred Rogers of “Mr. Rogers” that he maintained his weight at 143 because that was his favorite number
1-I
4-love
3-you
I like how the David starts off explaining where he is (v3-4) and then he tells what he does about it (v5-6). I think it’s a good pattern to follow!
Shane & Shane have a song called Psalm 143.
“For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” 2 Timothy 1:7
Favorite Verse: I have so many but Hebrews 10:23 was brought into my mind immediately—Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
Song: Again so many but the one that popped in my head is Still Waters (psalm 23) by Leanna Crawford
King of Kings by Hillsong Worship
And the morning that you rose, all of heaven held its breath. And the stone was rolled for good, for the lamb had conquered death. And the dead rose from their tombs and the angels stood in awe. For the souls of all who’d come, to the Father are restored.
Gah, yes! This song! I have never once been able to sing it all the way through without blubbering!
When I think about faith and all we walk through here it makes me think this scripture
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 CSB
[16] Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day. [17] For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory. [18] So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. …
That is one of my first memorization verses, albeit a tricky one to memorize for me because of it’s phrasing! But meaning…our afflictions are short compared to eternity!! I use the example of childbirth a lot- seems long and horrible, then when we get that precious baby in our arms, how quickly we forget! It is worth it for our gain!!
Psalm 77:11-14 11 I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.
12 I will consider all your works
and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”
13 Your ways, God, are holy.
What god is as great as our God?
14 You are the God who performs miracles;
you display your power among the peoples.
Before a visit to get my brother’s prognosis when he was recently diagnosed w Stage 4 cancer, I was kind of freaking out worrying about what the doctor would say and how my brother would receive it. Two times the day before the visit, the words “Psalm 77:11” came to me. It wasn’t until the 2nd time that I was decided to pick up my Bible and read it. I was blown away. I had never read this Psalm and it was like God saying to me, “remember what I’ve done. I am the God of miracles. I got this.” And he did and still continues to 4 1/2 years later after my brother was only given 3 months to live! The road hasn’t been easy and recently things have gotten more challenging, but when I start to worry or despair, I remember that verse.
❤️
Praying, TAMI
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Praying for you and your brother Tami.. It is well.. For He, God walks beside you on this journey with your brother.❤
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I love good music that speaks truth. CityAlight is one of my favorites. So many of their songs are rich with theology and deeply encouraging.
-There is One Gospel
-Psalm 42 (I Will Praise Him Again)
-On That Day
Andrew Peterson’s music was also deeply impactful when we were going through our ministry transition two years ago.
-Faith to Be Dtrong
-No More Faith
-The Silence of God
-After the Last Tear Falls
Psalm 121-1I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
2My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
This Psalm, this Psalm holds my heart! They are the words on my girls headstone.. on the hill above my house..
Where indeed would my help come from, if not from the Lord..❤️
I pray this one over my babies every night …I memorized it as a teen and, yes! He is the ONE to help.
This is one of my favorites, also!
Be still and know that I am God
❤ Oh, I forgot to put that one in my comment! It is hanging on the wall just over my shoulder, too! ❤
“For if we have been united with him in a death like His, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like His. For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin- because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.”
– Romans 6:5-8
Verse:”I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy. Because He turned His ear to me,I will call on Him as long as I live.”(Psalm 116:1-2 NIV)
Song: “Goodness of God” (Bethel Music)
Yes!❤️
In Christ Alone – “bursting forth, in glorious day, up from the grave, He rose again” is the line that always gets me emotional! How awesome and amazing is He and how full of hope we can be for our Savior is risen!
One of my favorites! One of the most powerful lines!!! I can just hear my church seeing that at the top of their lungs right now.
I have to say, when that portion of the song is sang ..OMG, my heart is fit to explode with JOY!!❤
This year on Christmas Eve will be six years since I was told that I had osteosarcoma (bone cancer) In my right leg. Oh my word. I knew something was wrong and had been trying to figure it out with the doctors and many different scans for nine months almost. Finally, all it took was an x-ray to realize what was going on. I remember where I was when my doctor called me and asked me to please sit down. I still wouldn’t have expected cancer. But as she told me this peace just filled my heart. I can’t even explain it. I knew that the Lord would be with me through the whole thing. Less than a month later, I had surgery on my leg and the cancer was removed. I had this rod put in my femur that caused my bone to regrow back with the help of the Lord. It’s called distraction osteogenesis. I was off of work for six months. I’m an ICU nurse, and that was difficult for me, but I leaned into the Lord so much and learned so much about him and his faithfulness. I did go back to work. I wasn’t able to work in the ICU right away because I was still using crutches, but again the Lord was faithful. I had someone reach out to me and ask if I wanted to work in the education department of the hospital until I could go back to the unit. That’s what I did. God is so awesome! And when I get down and when I want to do my own thing, I look back on that time and remember that his thing was the right thing and if it weren’t for the things that I went through, I wouldn’t have hope and trust in that I do right now.
All that to say, my favorite passage of scripture since that time is Psalm 91:1-2. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.””
Psalms 91:1-2 NKJV
I love the song by Crowder, All My Hope.
I’ve been held by the Saviour
I’ve felt fire from above
I’ve been down to the river
I ain’t the same, a prodigal returned
All my hope is in Jesus
Thank God that yesterday’s gone
And all my sins are forgiven
And I’ve been washed by the blood
I’m no stranger to the prison
I’ve worn shackles and chains
But I’ve been freed and forgiven
Yes, I have
I’m not going back, I’ll never be the same
That’s why I sing
All my hope is in Jesus
Thank God, my yesterday’s gone
All my sins are forgiven (forgiven)
I’ve been washed by the blood
And there’s a kind of thing that just breaks a man
Break him down to his knees (oh, yeah, Lord)
God, I’ve been broken more than a time or two, yes, Lord
Then He picked me up (picked me up)
And showed me what it means to be a man
Come on and sing
All my hope is in Jesus
Thank God my yesterday’s gone (gone)
Yes, all my sins are forgiven (forgiven)
I’ve been washed by the blood
Come on and sing
All my hope is in Jesus
Thank God my yesterday’s gone
Yes, all my sins are forgiven (all my sins are forgiven)
Oh, I’ve been washed by the blood
Blessed Wednesday, Sisters. Lean in to Jesus. Have faith that what He says is true. ❤️
Amen and amen! Thank you for sharing your testimony, and love this song ❤️
Love this song,too!
I read your blog on this and saw the pictures!! Wow, such an amazing way to grow the bone back with the rods, I have never heard of such a thing!! It is some testimony!!
, love Crowder!
Wow, Tricia! I didn’t know the background story before. How awesome for that job opp to ‘just be available’ when you needed a boost! I shared the same song in my comment. God bless! Love you! ❤
Amen!! Thank you for sharing this Tricia! What a testimony!
Beautiful!❤
Love all the encouraging songs below – you Ladies are so good at remembering all my favorite hymns! From Scripture, a couple of my favorites:
Psalm 46:1-3 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear thought the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.”
And in John 6 where Jesus asks His disciples if they will go away too? Peter replies, ‘To whom shall we go, for You alone have the words of life?’ (my paraphrase).
Blessings to you today, Ladies!
❤️
I was reminded of the early days of my heart being broken at the loss of my daughter.. I took to my bed for six months maybe more..only surfacing to go to the cemetery to sit until dark then returning to bed in the hope of my lifes end. I could hardly breath. I wanted to die too. I didn’t know how to do life without her!
My younger son aged 14, one day came in to me, and defiantly said “you have 2 other children you know” I have tears as I type this..my heart hurts for that little boy, who let’s face it, also was going through his own stuff.
I was brought back to the ‘living’ by his words..
After that I tried to hide my sorrow in front of them.. of course one day , son comes home and can hear me sobbing in my room.. he came in and hugged me! Then he said let’s read your favorite psalm, that always makes you feel better( I had read psalm 23 over my children most bedtimes, telling them it was my favourite, even when I was not walking with the Lord as I do now)
He opened the bible, I told him not to bother because I had fallen out with God.. he continued reading, kissed my head and left my room without another word. I could hear worship music downstairs, then he appeared with a cup of tea, saying you always feel better when you have your music on!
I am in bits remembering the Lords faithfulness, goodness and grace in those early days.. and hope on the size of a 14 year old boy who was dealing with his own stuff and yet, downed tools to lift my spirits up and remind me of the One who gave His Son, so I might live..
.
BUT GOD..
RIGHT..
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He never ever leaves, nor forsakes. He is faithful to His Word. And so so very gracious to those who call on Him in truth..
Thank you Father God, for the reminder of Who you are, have been, and continue to be in my life. Thank you Lord God, Thank you.
.
AMEN.
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If I were to choose a song, I think I would choose ‘The Lord is my shepherd..’
Sums Father God up for me in every way.. always..
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Much love, sisters, for always, covered in prayers prayers and more prayers for all..❤️
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This is such a powerful story and I’m so thankful for you sharing!
Tina, I love you. ❤️
God is so Awesome! Thank you for sharing.
Tina what a beautiful picture of a sweet boy’s love for his mama! Brought tears to my eyes!
So beautiful, dear TINA. Love you ❤️
Tina, thank you for sharing this. Your testimonies are always great instruction and inspiration. Love you
Thank you for sharing your experience of grief with us, it brought me to tears as I read it. Your posts are always an inspiration to me and others I’m sure.
Tina, Thank you so much for sharing. So beautiful.
❤️ This is so beautiful, Tina.
Thank you, Tina, again for sharing your story. God is good!
What a beautiful testimony. Thank you for sharing
Tina, thank you for sharing. Your son was raised well- we all need grace sometimes ❤️
Beautiful, Tina, as always. What an awesome memory! God bless your son who loved you so! I love you, too! ❤
Hugs and love to you dear Tina.
Oh wow Tina! Thank you for always sharing your heart with us. What a blessing you are. ❤️
LOVE the heart of your sweet boy!!! Love you sweet Tina. What a sweet boy!!!
❤️beautiful story of His faithfulness to you Tina and how God used your son! Thanks for sharing your heart with us! Love you sister!❤️
“The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living” (Hebrews 11:1, MSG)
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“We are not saved by the love we exercise but by the love we trust.” (Richard Lovelace)
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Tim Keller’s paraphrase of Jonathan Edwards sermon’s outline “Christian Happiness”:
1. Our bad things will turn out for good (Romans 8:28),
2. Our good things can never be taken away from us (Psalm 4:6-7) and
3. The best things are yet to come (1 Corinthians 2:9)
May I add: God is with us always! (Matthew 28:20) Our bad, our good, and our best are all tied to His presence in our lives!
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“Our chief end is to glorify God and love Him forever” – Westminster Shorter Catechism
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Ok, last one: a poem by William Cowper, a 18th-century hymn writer who suffered from depression.
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Sometimes a light surprises the Christian as he sings;
it is the Lord who rises, with healing in his wings:
When comforts are declining, He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining, to cheer it after rain.
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In holy contemplation we sweetly then pursue
The theme of God’s salvation, and find it ever new.
Set free from present sorrow, we cheerfully can say,
Let the unknown tomorrow bring with it what it may.
–
Amen and amen!
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Thank you
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On Christ the solid rock I stand
‘Jesus’ by Chris Tomlin. It begins: ‘there is a truth older than the ages/ there is a promise of things yet to come/ there is one born for our salvation/ Jesus
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Recently, it has been- “All the Way my Saviour Leads Me”
Thanks for your encouragement yesterday and for your prayers. My daughter was a bit upset when seeing the doctor, but it wasn’t as bad as the other night. This doctor thinks the rash is a result of having a virus. Not sure what I think about that as I don’t remember her being sick, but I’m hoping it is and that it will run it’s course and go away.
Sometimes we end up with viruses and the only thing that will indicate that we have had one is a rash. I remember my grandkids going through that. I trust she’s feeling better today. I like that song. I haven’t heard it in sometime. Now I’m going to have to ask Alexa to play it for me.❤️
Exodus 14:13-14