friendly connection

As we enter this world, we inherit a nature that is deemed sinful (Romans 3:23), which positions us in a state of enmity with God (Romans 5:10). This fundamental condition presents us with a significant challenge: the tendency to craft our mechanisms for achieving peace with God. Yet, the truth is that God has already laid out a pathway for this reconciliation.

Main Text: Psalm 29:11 (ESV)

When I think about the traditional “Be Mine” conversation heart, I realize that the best gift is not material.

Main Text: Malachi 3:17 (ESV)

God’s invitation to communicate with you and me comes with a remarkable assurance: “I will answer you.” This profound statement isn’t just a comforting thought but a firm commitment.

Main Text: Jeremiah 33:3(ESV)

God’s love for you is profound. If you were the only person on earth, He still would have sent Jesus. This Valentine’s Day, focus not on earthly connections but on the divine God Who loves us more fully and abundantly than we can ever comprehend.

Main Text: 1 John 4:9 (ESV)

There are many beautiful examples from the lives of Biblical characters to which we can relate and take away practical application. However, today it is the not-so-great stuff I want to think about. More to the point, it is the excuses Moses made to God when God first called Moses to lead the Children of Israel out of Egypt. I also want to think about this honestly and ask myself how many times I have made these same excuses to God.

Main Text: Exodus 3:1-11 (ESV)

Jesus emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in our prayers and encourages us not to lose heart, reinforcing the idea that God is always attentive to the petitions of His children.

Main Text: Psalm 34:17 (ESV)

Too often, people pray without expecting God to answer; this is why many take matters into their own hands even when they do pray.

Main Text: Mark 4:23 (ESV)

Waiting can be challenging, especially when we yearn for immediate answers; however, we must remind ourselves that just because we are waiting, does not mean God is overlooking us or our desires; God still hears us. Waiting often signifies that God’s perfect timing has yet to unfold. Crucial elements may still need to align in our lives, the lives of others, or both before our prayers can be realized.

Main Text: Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)

If you have accepted Jesus’ free gift of salvation and are sincerely living for God, then know this: God has heard your prayers in the past, is listening to you right now, and is already in tune with your tomorrow. He listens so intently that He understands what you are about to express before you express it. Paul even says the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness when we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but The Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words (Romans 8:26). Still, it is challenging to grasp the reality that God hears our prayers.

Main Text: Psalm 6:9 (ESV)

I am routinely asked: “Chuck, are you certain God hears me when I pray?” If you are a blood-bought believer, God hears your every prayer. Countless verses in Scripture give examples of God hearing and answering His children’s prayers. Scripture says, The Lord heard the cries of the Children of Isreal when they were suffering in Egypt (Deuteronomy 26:7). Hezekiah, “I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you” (2 Kings 20:5). Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard” (Luke 1:13).