You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed

You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed

You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."- Psalm 139:23-24 (KJV)

In the depths of our hearts lie chambers we'd rather keep locked. We carry fears that paralyze, shame that silences, expectations that disappoint, and needs that go unmet. Yet God calls us to live a SEEN life: one where nothing remains hidden from His loving gaze or our own honest reflection.

What am I SCARED of? Fear has a way of whispering lies in the darkness, convincing us that we're not strong enough, smart enough, or worthy enough. But the psalmist knew that when we bring our fears into God's light, He meets us there. "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1). Your fears lose their power when you name them before the One who has already conquered them.

What am I EMBARRASSED about? Shame thrives in secrecy, but it withers in the presence of grace. Those moments that make us want to hide, our failures, our weaknesses, our past mistakes, are the very places where God's mercy shines brightest. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). What embarrasses you today can become tomorrow's testimony of God's redemptive power.

What am I EXPECTING? Sometimes we build castles in the air with our expectations, only to watch them crumble when reality doesn't match our dreams. Unrealistic expectations breed disappointment, while unrealized ones create bitterness. But when we surrender our expectations to God's will, we find something better than what we imagined. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord" (Isaiah 55:8). His plans surpass our expectations every time.

What do I NEED? Beneath our wants lie our true needs, for love, acceptance, purpose, and peace. Often we seek these in places that cannot satisfy, but God knows our deepest needs before we even voice them. "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). When you identify what you truly need, you can bring those needs to the One who is able to meet them abundantly.

Living SEEN means choosing vulnerability over hiding, truth over pretense, and faith over fear. It means allowing God to search the hidden places of your heart and trusting that what He finds there, He can heal and transform. When you dare to be fully known, by God and by trusted others, you discover that you are fully loved, not despite your struggles, but through them.

Today, invite God into every corner of your heart. Let Him see what scares you, what shames you, what you're hoping for, and what you need. In His presence, you'll find that being SEEN is not something to fear, but something to embrace. For in His eyes, you are precious, chosen, and deeply loved.

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Magnificent Obsession #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Magnificent Obsession #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

 Never Without Christ: The Soul of Every Prayer and Sermon

"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." Galatians 6:14 (KJV)

The great preacher Charles Spurgeon once declared with passionate conviction:

"See to it then, beloved, that you never pray a prayer which is not sweetened with Christ. I would never preach a sermon—the Lord forgive me if I do—which is not full to overflowing with my Master. I know one who said I was always on the old string and he would come and hear me no more; but if I preached a sermon without Christ in it, he would come. Ah, he will never come while this tongue moves, for a sermon without Christ in it—a Christless sermon! A brook without water; a cloud without rain; a well which mocks the traveller; a tree twice dead, plucked up by the root; a sky without a sun; a night without a star. It is a realm of death—a place of mourning for angels and laughter for devils."

What vivid imagery Spurgeon paints of a message devoid of Christ! Like a brook that offers no refreshment to the thirsty soul, or a cloud heavy with promise but yielding no life-giving rain, our words become empty shells when stripped of the Savior's presence.

Consider how Christ Himself is woven into the very fabric of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, every page whispers His name. The sacrificial lamb speaks of Him. The bronze serpent lifted in the wilderness points to Him. The temple veil torn in two proclaims His finished work. Even in the genealogies and seemingly mundane passages, careful study reveals shadows and types of our blessed Redeemer.

If the inspired Word cannot be properly understood apart from Christ, how much more should our prayers and proclamations be saturated with His presence? When we pray, we come not in our own merit but through His precious blood. When we speak of spiritual matters, we dare not offer stones for bread or serpents for fish to hungry souls.

The apostle Paul understood this truth deeply. In his letter to the Corinthians, he wrote, "For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2). This was not intellectual limitation but spiritual wisdom. Paul recognized that Christ is not merely a topic among many—He is the golden thread that gives meaning to all other truths.

Today, let us examine our own hearts. Are our prayers enriched with gratitude for His sacrifice? Do our conversations naturally turn toward His goodness? When we have opportunity to encourage others, do we point them to the One who is the source of all comfort?

A prayer without Christ becomes mere wishful thinking. A message without Christ becomes hollow philosophy. But when our Savior fills our words, they become vessels of grace, instruments of hope, and channels of divine love.

May we never be guilty of offering a well without water to thirsty souls. Instead, let us ensure that every word we speak and every prayer we offer overflows with the sweetness of our precious Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, forgive us when our prayers have been self-centered and our words have lacked the sweetness of Christ. Help us to be so filled with Your Son that He naturally flows from our lips in every conversation and petition. May we never offer empty cisterns to thirsty souls, but always point to the Living Water. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Before Sin, There Was a Savior #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Before Sin, There Was a Savior #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

"But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound." - Romans 5:20 (KJV)

"God's grace is greater than our greatest sin."

This simple yet profound truth carries the weight of eternity within its words. When we examine the depths of our human condition, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the magnitude of our failures, our shortcomings, and our rebellion against our Creator. Yet Scripture declares something that defies human logic and surpasses earthly understanding: grace doesn't just match our sin, it overwhelms it.

Before There Was Sin, There Was a Savior

Long before Adam's hand reached for forbidden fruit, before the first tear of guilt was shed, before humanity even knew what it meant to fall short of God's glory, there existed a plan of redemption. The Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world. This reveals something extraordinary about the nature of our God, His love and provision preceded our need. He didn't scramble to find a solution after we messed up; He had already prepared the remedy before the disease ever manifested.

Before There Was Guilt, There Was Grace

When shame first entered the human heart, grace was already there waiting. The very moment Adam and Eve recognized their nakedness and hid from God, grace was pursuing them through the garden, calling out, "Where are you?" This wasn't the question of an ignorant God seeking information, but the call of a loving Father extending an invitation to restoration. Grace had already made provision for their covering, both physical and spiritual.

Before I Ever Messed Up, There Was Mercy

Personal reflection brings this truth home to our hearts. Every mistake you've made, every failure that haunts your memory, every secret sin that brings you shame, none of these caught God off guard. His mercy toward you existed before you ever needed it. Before your first breath, His love for you was already complete. Before your first sin, His forgiveness was already secured through Christ's sacrifice.

The beauty of this divine truth is that grace doesn't diminish as our sins increase. Paul's words in Romans reveal that where sin abounded, grace didn't just show up, it "much more abounded." The Greek word used here suggests an overwhelming abundance, a superabundance that exceeds all boundaries.

This means that your worst day doesn't define you. Your deepest failure doesn't disqualify you. Your most shameful moment doesn't separate you from God's love. Grace is greater. Grace was there first. Grace will have the final word.

When the enemy whispers that you've gone too far, remember: grace went further. When guilt suggests you're beyond redemption, remember: grace was there before you needed redemption. When shame tries to convince you that you're unworthy of love, remember: God's love existed before you were even capable of earning or losing it.

Living in the Reality of Greater Grace:

Understanding that God's grace is greater than our greatest sin should transform how we approach both our failures and our relationship with God. We don't have to minimize our sin or pretend it doesn't matter, we can acknowledge its full weight while simultaneously celebrating grace's superior strength.

This truth also calls us to extend the same preemptive grace to others that God has shown us. Just as His mercy was waiting for us before we knew we needed it, we can offer grace to others before they even ask for it.

Today, let the magnitude of God's grace wash over every area of guilt, shame, and condemnation in your life. You are not defined by your worst moment but by His best gift. His grace doesn't just cover your sin, it overwhelms it, transforms it, and uses even your failures for His glory.

"God's grace is greater than our greatest sin." Let this truth settle deep into your soul and change how you see yourself, your past, and your future.

Prayer: Father, thank You that Your grace was waiting for me before I ever knew I needed it. Help me to live in the freedom of knowing that Your love preceded my failure and Your mercy overwhelms my mistakes. Let this truth transform not only how I see myself but how I extend grace to others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

#GraceGreater #BeforeSinTherewasaSavior #GodsMercyEndures

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Don't Boss The Boss #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Don't Boss The Boss #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

Don't Boss the Boss: Surrendering Our Demand for Divine Obedience

"Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?" Isaiah 45:9 (KJV)

There's a dangerous reversal happening in many hearts today. We approach God not as humble servants seeking His will, but as demanding customers expecting divine customer service. When circumstances don't align with our plans, when prayers seem unanswered, when God's timing doesn't match our urgency, we find ourselves angry, not with our situation, but with God Himself.

The Problem: Playing God to God

When we demand that God conform to our understanding, we're essentially saying, "I know better than You do." We're telling the One who spoke galaxies into existence that our finite perspective trumps His infinite wisdom. We're informing the God who sees the end from the beginning that He's gotten our story wrong.

This reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of who God is and who we are. As the clay, we have no right to question the Potter's methods. As children, we have no authority to command our heavenly Father.

The Spiritual Solution: Returning to Our Rightful Position

The remedy begins with repentance, not God repenting to us, but us repenting to God. We must acknowledge that our frustration with His apparent "disobedience" to our will is actually rebellion against His rightful lordship.

First, humble ourselves before His sovereignty: "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble" (James 4:6, KJV).

Second, trust His perfect love and wisdom: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28, KJV).

Third, surrender our timeline to His: "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1, KJV).

Finally, pray with Christ's heart: "Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done" (Luke 22:42, KJV).

The peace we seek won't come from getting God to obey us, but from learning to trust and obey Him. When we stop trying to be the father and return to our place as beloved children, we'll discover that His will is not a burden to bear but a gift to receive.

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Freedom Isn't Free #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Freedom Isn't Free #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 Freedom Isn't Free - The Price of Liberty in Two Realms

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." Galatians 5:1 (KJV)

The phrase "freedom isn't free" adorns monuments and memorials across our nation, reminding us that liberty always comes at a cost. Someone always pays the price for someone else's freedom.

Our founding fathers understood this truth when they pledged "our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor" for independence. Generations of Americans have honored that pledge, paying freedom's price with their blood on foreign shores and domestic soil. They understood that some things are worth dying for, and liberty tops that list.

But there's another freedom that came at an even greater cost—our spiritual liberty. "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:18-19, KJV).

Christ paid the ultimate price to free us from sin's tyranny. His sacrifice on the cross broke every chain that bound us to spiritual death and eternal separation from God. The freedom He purchased isn't just for this life—it's freedom that lasts forever.

As we honor our military heroes today, let us also honor the Hero of Calvary. Both freedoms demand our gratitude and our commitment to live as free people, not returning to the bondage from which we've been delivered.

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Small Steps to Big Faith #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Small Steps To Big Faith  #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Small Steps, Big Faith

"Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit." - Ecclesiastes 7:8 (KJV)

In our walk with God, we often fall into the trap of perfectionism. We hear tales of great Christian leaders who spent hours in fervent prayer at dawn, and we think, "I could never measure up to that." This mindset can paralyze us, preventing us from taking even the smallest steps in our spiritual journey. As the saying goes, "The perfect is often the enemy of the good."

Consider the act of prayer. We may envision the ideal prayer life as rising at 4 AM and communing with God for hours on end. While this practice can be admirable, it's not the only way to cultivate a meaningful relationship with our Heavenly Father. By setting such a lofty standard, we may discourage ourselves from praying at all.

Instead, let's focus on progress, not perfection. The good – a simple, heartfelt conversation with God each day – is far better than the perfect that never materializes. Start small: offer a sentence or two of gratitude, petition, or praise. As you build this habit, you may find yourself naturally expanding your prayers, perhaps even engaging in short bursts of communication with God throughout your day.

Remember, God doesn't expect perfection from us. He desires a genuine relationship, one that grows and deepens over time. In Ecclesiastes, we're reminded that the patient in spirit is better than the proud. This patience applies not only to our circumstances but also to our spiritual growth.

Take encouragement from the words of Jesus in Matthew 17:20 (KJV): "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." Even the smallest act of faith can lead to tremendous growth and change.

Today, challenge yourself to take one small step in your spiritual disciplines. Whether it's prayer, Bible reading, or acts of service, remember that consistency in small things often leads to significant transformation. Don't let the illusion of perfection hinder your progress. Embrace the good, and watch as God works in and through your faithful efforts.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to overcome the paralysis of perfectionism. Grant us the wisdom to start small and the patience to grow steadily in our relationship with You. May we find joy in the journey of faith, trusting that You are pleased with our sincere efforts, no matter how humble they may seem. In Jesus' name, Amen.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Wisdom For The Weary #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Wisdom For The Weary   #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

Above All Else: The Focus That Changed Wilberforce

 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory

William Wilberforce stood at the window of his London home, staring across the Thames with weary eyes. For twenty years, he had fought to abolish the slave trade in the British Empire, and for twenty years, he had failed. Stacks of parliamentary papers cluttered his desk, and letters from both supporters and fierce opponents filled his drawers. His health was deteriorating, and doubts clouded his mind.

Throughout his life, Wilberforce was deeply influenced by Scripture broadly. His 1797 book "A Practical View of Christianity" revealed his theological foundations, while his journal entries and letters demonstrated how biblical principles regarding human dignity and justice guided his political career. He was especially moved by passages about loving one's neighbor, caring for the oppressed, and the equality of all people before God.

As a young, ambitious politician with wealth and social connections, he had experienced a profound spiritual conversion at age 25. His old friend, former slave-ship captain John Newton, now a minister and author of "Amazing Grace", had counseled him not to abandon politics but to use his position for God's purposes.

Though he never specifically cited it, the powerful truth in Colossians 3 perfectly summarizes Wilberforce's transformed focus in life. While his peers pursued political power, wealth, and status, he set his mind on higher things, the dignity of every human being created in God's image. This heavenly focus made him willing to endure earthly scorn.

Year after year, he introduced anti-slavery bills. Year after year, they were defeated. His political opponents mocked him as a religious fanatic. Business interests slandered him as an economic saboteur. Even some friends suggested he choose a more achievable cause.

"Perhaps I should focus elsewhere," Wilberforce confided to his journal one night. "Twenty years of failure wears on a man's soul."

Many times when he opened his Bible. Those words renewed his resolve. His focus wasn't meant to be on immediate results but on faithfulness to his calling. He wasn't working primarily for earthly approval but for heavenly purposes.

With refreshed determination, Wilberforce continued the fight. His heavenly focus gave him earthly perseverance. In 1807, the Slave Trade Act finally passed, abolishing the slave trade throughout the British Empire. Twenty-six years later, just three days before his death in 1833, he received news that slavery itself would be abolished across the British colonies.

Wilberforce's life embodies the wisdom of Paul's words in Colossians. By setting his mind on things above, he changed things on earth. By living as though his true life was hidden with Christ, he found courage to face opposition. By focusing on heavenly glory rather than earthly acclaim, he left a legacy that transformed millions of lives.

Like Wilberforce, we face choices daily about where to set our minds. When we focus on things above, we gain the perspective and perseverance to fulfill our calling below.

Prayer: Lord, like Wilberforce, help me fix my focus on heavenly values rather than earthly validation. Remind me that my true identity is hidden with Christ, giving me courage to pursue Your purposes even when progress seems slow. May my heavenly focus produce earthly faithfulness. Amen.

#WilberforceWisdom #PerseverantFocus #HeavenlyPerspective

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Pocket ofEncouragment #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Pocket ofEncouragment #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

"Found in His Pocket: Unexpected Encouragement"

"Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you." - Matthew 5:11-12 (KJV)

On that fateful evening of April 14, 1865, as President Abraham Lincoln settled into his seat at Ford's Theatre, he carried with him more than just the weight of a nation recently emerged from civil war. In the pocket of his coat was a small newspaper clipping—a review praising his leadership and character.

This simple paper treasure speaks volumes about the burden Lincoln bore. Throughout his presidency, perhaps no American leader had been more viciously attacked or cruelly caricatured. Political cartoons depicted him as an ape, a tyrant, and a bumbling fool. Newspapers openly called for his defeat, his disgrace, and sometimes even his death. The North criticized him for moving too slowly on emancipation, while the South reviled him as a destroyer of their way of life.

Yet amid this storm of criticism, Lincoln had carefully preserved this small token of encouragement. We can imagine how this positive voice among the chorus of critics must have fortified his spirit during dark hours when doubt threatened to overwhelm him.

What comfort this clipping must have provided—a reminder that not everyone viewed his work with scorn. How strengthening to know that someone recognized the wisdom and compassion that guided his difficult decisions. In a presidency marked by unbearable pressures, this small affirmation represented a light in the darkness.

The presence of this clipping in Lincoln's pocket reminds us of a profound truth: even the strongest among us need encouragement. Even those called to the highest service require reminders that their work matters.

In our own lives, we often face criticism and misunderstanding when we stand for what is right. Like Lincoln, we may find ourselves vilified for decisions made with the purest intentions. In those moments, we must treasure the affirmations God sends our way—whether through a kind word, an unexpected note, or the quiet assurance of Scripture.

Today, consider whose life you might touch with words of encouragement. Your affirming message might become someone's treasured keepsake—perhaps even carried close to their heart during their darkest hour.

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Kingdom Authority #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Kingdom Authority #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 God's Ambassadors of Authority

 2 Corinthians 5:20

"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God."

When someone grants you power of attorney, you gain the legal authority to act on their behalf in specific situations. Similarly, God has bestowed upon believers a supernatural authority to represent Him in this world.

As ambassadors for Christ, we carry the weighty responsibility of representing the Kingdom of God in our communities. This means being so immersed in God's Word that our speech naturally reflects what God would say in any given situation. Our authority isn't meant for self-promotion or personal gain, but rather to honor and expand God's Kingdom.

James reminds us in his epistle: "Ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts" (James 4:2-3). How often do we misuse the powerful gift of prayer for selfish purposes? Prayer is not merely a tool to fulfill our desires, but a sacred communication with our Heavenly Father.

Today, let us examine our hearts. Are we exercising our God-given authority as faithful ambassadors, or are we using it to pursue our own agendas? May we align our prayers, actions, and words with God's will, understanding that we represent not ourselves, but the King of Kings.

#AmbassadorsForChrist #KingdomAuthority #PrayerWarrior

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Looking For Love #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Looking For Love #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 How To Find Limitless Love

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Have you ever felt that gnawing emptiness? That space within your heart that seems impossible to fill? We search for it in the eyes of lovers, in the approval of friends, in the embrace of family—that perfect, complete, unconditional love. Yet time and again, we find ourselves disappointed, for we ask of humanity what only divinity can provide.

The human heart, wonderful though it is, remains finite. Our love for one another, though precious, comes with limitations, expectations, and conditions that we often cannot articulate. We enter relationships carrying silent scripts of how we wish to be loved, and when others fail to follow these unspoken lines, disappointment settles in our souls.

This disappointment isn't because others don't love us—it's because we've mistaken their role. We've asked them to be God.

"The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing." - Zephaniah 3:17 (KJV)

Imagine that—the Creator of all things rejoicing over you with singing! This is love without reservation, without condition, without end. This is the love your soul truly craves.

When we understand that God alone can love us completely—knowing our darkest thoughts yet cherishing us still—we free our human relationships from impossible expectations. We can receive the imperfect love of others with gratitude rather than disappointment, for we no longer ask them to fill what only God can fill.

"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39 (KJV)

Today, rest in this truth: You are already perfectly loved. Not because you earned it, not because you found someone who understands exactly how to love you, but because the One who created love itself has set His affection upon you. Let this divine love fill the spaces in your heart, and watch how it transforms your expectations of human relationships.

You are not waiting to be properly loved. You already are.

#PerfectLove #DivineAffection #HeartsFulfilled

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Power Prayer: Unlocking Heaven's Gates #RTTBROS #Nightlight

 Power Prayer: Unlocking Heaven's Gates #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

 "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." - James 5:16b (KJV)

Prayer often becomes a routine—items to check off a spiritual to-do list rather than genuine conversations with the Creator of the universe. Many of us find ourselves simply going through the motions, reciting familiar phrases without truly engaging our hearts. Yet Scripture reminds us that prayer isn't merely a religious duty—it's our direct line to God's power and presence. It's a mighty spiritual weapon that transforms circumstances, heals hearts, and brings divine power into our daily lives.

What inspires me is the story of that small Georgia church that rediscovered the power of praying specifically for the lost. Their revival began when they shifted their focus from routine requests to fervent intercession for specific people who needed Christ. I find myself asking: What might God do in my life—in our church—if we recaptured this kind of passionate, focused prayer? When we pray with purpose and persistence, we open ourselves to witnessing God's transformative work in ways we never thought possible.

I've come to understand that prayer should be my response to every life situation. James 5:13 asks, "Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms." Whether I'm struggling through hardship or celebrating joy, prayer connects me to God's power. Like a smartphone without a signal, I may have all the features of spiritual life—Bible knowledge, church attendance, good morals—but without the connection of prayer, my spiritual power remains dormant. Prayer isn't just an app on my spiritual smartphone; it's the cellular connection that makes everything else function.

What strikes me most about Elijah's example in James 5:17-18 is that he was "a man subject to like passions as we are." He wasn't superhuman or free from weaknesses. Yet through prayer, this ordinary man controlled the weather for three and a half years! I find tremendous encouragement in this. My confidence in prayer doesn't come from my perfection but from God's power. He responds to faith, not flawlessness. Even when I feel inadequate, I remember that God can work miracles through imperfect people who pray with sincere hearts.

I was convicted by Charles Spurgeon's words: "Prayer pulls the rope below and the great bell rings above in the ears of God. Some scarcely stir the bell, for they pray so languidly; others give but an occasional pluck at the rope; but he who wins with heaven is the man who grasps the rope boldly and pulls continuously, with all his might." How often I've been guilty of merely giving an occasional pluck at the rope rather than grasping it boldly and pulling with all my might! Lord, teach me to pray with persistence that moves heaven.

Like Hudson Taylor setting sail while praying for wind, I understand the importance of combining faith with action—setting my sails in expectation while praying with conviction. Keeping our prayers specific rather than offering vague generalizations transforms our prayer life. As Hebrews 4:16 encourages us, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." God invites us to approach Him with confidence, bringing our specific requests before His throne.

The phrase "effectual fervent" in James 5:16 means to display activity and put forth power. My prayers should never be passive or perfunctory—they should be passionate and persistent. I'm challenged by E.M. Bounds' assertion that "What the Church needs today is not more machinery or better, not new organizations or more novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use—men of prayer, men mighty in prayer." I want to be counted among those whom the Holy Spirit can use in powerful ways through prayer. I want to be mighty in prayer.

I've been particularly moved by the story of Josh McDowell, who prayed about his uncertainty regarding his mother's salvation. His seemingly impossible prayer was answered in a remarkable way that brought him peace. This reminds me that God can answer prayers I don't even know how to articulate—prayers that seem impossible from a human perspective. As Jesus promised in Matthew 7:7-8, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."

The image of the elderly man Jack, who died with his head resting on the chair where he imagined Jesus sitting, deeply touches my heart. Prayer isn't a complicated formula—it's simply having a conversation with Jesus, as if He were sitting in the chair opposite me. Like Jack, I want to lean into prayer throughout my life, finding in that spiritual connection all I need for every circumstance. I'm reminded of 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which simply instructs us to "Pray without ceasing." This doesn't mean I must be on my knees 24/7, but rather that I maintain a constant attitude of communion with God, bringing everything before Him.

We must each commit to revitalizing our prayer lives. Consider: What specific situations do we substitute worry for prayer? What needs to change in our daily schedules to make room for meaningful prayer? If we truly believed the "prayer of faith" could move mountains, what would we pray about differently? Lord, help us move from routine, perfunctory prayers to "effectual fervent" prayers that availeth much. May our prayer lives be characterized not by obligation but by passion, not by doubt but by confidence, and not by selfishness but by intercession for others who desperately need Your touch.

The David Dilemma #Nightlight #RTTBROS

The David Dilemma #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 "Trusting God's Call: The David Dilemma"

Bible Verse: "And David said, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee." (1 Samuel 17:37, KJV)

Devotion: In this powerful verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we witness a remarkable exchange between David and Saul, as David prepares to face Goliath. David's faith in God is on full display here, as he exhibits two key components of trusting in the Lord: action and belief.

David's first display of faith comes from his willingness to act on his experiences. He has seen God deliver him from dangerous situations before, and he trusts that God will do so again. By agreeing to face Goliath, David is demonstrating a faith that is grounded in action and reliance on his God-given abilities.

Secondly, David's belief in God's power is unwavering. He declares that the battle belongs to the Lord, showing that he trusts not only in his own skills but also in God's ultimate authority over the situation. David's faith is a beautiful example of how we can both take action and trust in God's power simultaneously.

So, as we face our own "Goliaths" in life, let us remember the David Dilemma: to act with courage, using the gifts God has given us, while also placing our ultimate trust in His mighty hand.

#DavidDilemma #TrustInAction #FaithOverFear

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

The David Dilemma #Nightlight #RTTBROS

The David Dilemma #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 "Trusting God's Call: The David Dilemma"

Bible Verse: "And David said, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee." (1 Samuel 17:37, KJV)

Devotion: In this powerful verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we witness a remarkable exchange between David and Saul, as David prepares to face Goliath. David's faith in God is on full display here, as he exhibits two key components of trusting in the Lord: action and belief.

David's first display of faith comes from his willingness to act on his experiences. He has seen God deliver him from dangerous situations before, and he trusts that God will do so again. By agreeing to face Goliath, David is demonstrating a faith that is grounded in action and reliance on his God-given abilities.

Secondly, David's belief in God's power is unwavering. He declares that the battle belongs to the Lord, showing that he trusts not only in his own skills but also in God's ultimate authority over the situation. David's faith is a beautiful example of how we can both take action and trust in God's power simultaneously.

So, as we face our own "Goliaths" in life, let us remember the David Dilemma: to act with courage, using the gifts God has given us, while also placing our ultimate trust in His mighty hand.

#DavidDilemma #TrustInAction #FaithOverFear

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Trusting His Heart: How Understanding God's Love Deepens Our Faith

 Trusting His Heart: How Understanding God's Love Deepens Our Faith

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Have you ever found yourself questioning God's presence in difficult circumstances? I was doing a devotion with my family yesterday, and as I went through verses about who we are in Christ, the Holy Spirit showed me something profound: our ability to have genuine faith is directly connected to our understanding of God's love. When life's challenges arise—whether illness, financial hardship, or relationship struggles—our trust often wavers, not because God has abandoned us, but because we struggle to believe He truly has our best interests at heart.

The depth of God's love extends far beyond our human comprehension. In the Old Testament, the concept of "loving kindness" reveals God's consistent care for His people, even when they strayed. Similarly, the New Testament's "agape" love demonstrates a profound commitment—what I'd define simply as God looking out for our best interest. This divine love was perfectly displayed when Christ willingly suffered on the cross, not because we deserved it, but because God saw something worth redeeming in us.

Our faith journey often resembles the Israelites' pattern in Scripture. When they turned from God, He allowed discipline in their lives but always sent prophets to guide them back. When they cried out from bondage, He responded with grace and deliverance. This cycle repeatedly demonstrates that even when circumstances seem bleak, God remains faithful. As I meditate on these biblical accounts, I begin to recognize this same pattern of faithfulness in my own life.

The world frequently questions how a loving God could permit suffering. This challenging question has no simple answer, but as believers, we can rest in the truth that God does not author evil. Rather, as Romans 8:28 assures us, He works all things—even painful experiences—together for good. I'm reminded of Corrie ten Boom, who discovered God's love even in a concentration camp. She learned that God's love extends even to places as horrible as that. We too can witness His presence in our darkest moments when we maintain faith in His character and promises.

My ability to trust God grows stronger as I experience His faithfulness firsthand. Each time I witness Him working through difficult circumstances—providing unexpected resources, opening doors, or bringing comfort in grief—my confidence in His love deepens. When I read Scripture and observe how God consistently demonstrated care for His people, I develop the assurance that He is equally devoted to me today, regardless of external evidence.

For many of us, including myself at times, faith struggles stem from uncertainty about God's intentions. We question whether He truly wants what's best for us when our prayers seem unanswered or our circumstances remain unchanged. I've known different people, and I've been there in my own life, struggling with faith because I did not trust that God truly was working things to my best interest. Yet Scripture consistently reveals that God's definition of "best" often differs from our own. His perspective encompasses eternity, while ours remains limited to the present.

Today, I encourage you to take time to meditate specifically on God's love. Beyond the familiar John 3:16, explore passages that speak of being "rooted and grounded in love" and knowing Christ's love that "passeth knowledge." As you reflect on these truths, allow them to transform your faith. Remember that we did nothing to recommend ourselves to God; He chose to love us because of who He is, not because of anything within ourselves. As I heard a preacher say yesterday on the radio, we certainly did nothing to recommend us to God, that He would want to love us. This unmerited favor provides the foundation for unwavering trust.

As you face this week's challenges, carry this truth with you: God's love is not dependent on your performance or circumstances. When doubts arise, return to Scripture's promises and recall times when God has proven faithful in your life. The peace and joy of the Christian life flow from this understanding—knowing we are deeply loved by our Creator, trusting His plan even when we cannot see it, and resting in the confidence that nothing can separate us from His love. This knowledge empowers us to live victoriously, regardless of what we face. So I hope that you remember the love of God today and that the love of God today brings about a deeper faith in your walk today.

#FaithFoundedInLove #GodsPlanInPain #VictoriousThroughTrust

limitation Denying Faith #RTTBROS #Nightlight

limitation Denying Faith #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Faith That Defies Limitations #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

Faith That Defies Limitations

"Then said Jonathan, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few." - 1 Samuel 14:6 (KJV)

Jonathan found himself in a seemingly impossible situation. The Philistines had established a formidable garrison, and the Israelite forces were vastly outnumbered and poorly equipped. King Saul, Jonathan's father, was hesitant and uncertain. But Jonathan saw beyond the physical limitations to the unlimited power of God.

"There is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few." These words reveal the heart of true faith—a recognition that God's ability to work is not constrained by human limitations. Jonathan understood that victory doesn't depend on the size of the army but on the size of our God.

How often do we find ourselves looking at obstacles rather than opportunities? We count our resources, measure our abilities, and conclude that certain challenges are simply beyond us. We forget that the God we serve specializes in doing the impossible through those willing to step out in faith.

Jonathan didn't say, "The LORD will definitely work for us." He said, "It may be that the LORD will work for us." This wasn't doubt but humble dependence. Jonathan recognized God's sovereignty while still being willing to act. His faith wasn't presumption; it was courageous obedience with an open hand.

The results were remarkable. With just his armor-bearer by his side, Jonathan launched an attack that triggered a chain reaction, resulting in a great victory for Israel. What appeared to be a foolish risk became a powerful testimony to God's faithfulness.

Where in your life do you need to declare, "There is no restraint to the LORD"? What impossible situation are you facing that requires Jonathan-like faith? Remember, God is not limited by your limitations. He delights in showing His strength through our weakness.

Let us be people who, like Jonathan, are willing to step out in faith, recognizing that our God is not constrained by numbers, resources, or human impossibilities. May we have the courage to say, "Come, and let us go," trusting not in our own strength but in the unlimited power of our God.

#FaithOverFear #NoRestraintToGod #VictoryInJesus

 

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Rest In Prayer #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Rest In Prayer #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

Peace Beyond Understanding: Finding Rest in Prayer

"And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad." - 1 Samuel 1:18 (KJV)

Have you ever carried your burdens visibly on your face? In 1 Samuel, Hannah's countenance reflected her deep sorrow. Yet after prayer, something remarkable happened: "her countenance was no more sad."

Hannah teaches us powerful lessons about prayer. Though still childless when she left the temple, her heart and face were transformed.

The Power of Honest Prayer

Prayer isn't just requests; it's sharing our hearts with God. When we bring our true feelings to Him—our disappointments and deepest longings—something shifts within us. We may face the same circumstances, but with a renewed heart.

Faith Before Fulfillment

Hannah believed God heard her before seeing evidence. Faith isn't waiting for results; it's believing God has already set things in motion when nothing seems changed.

Moving Forward While Waiting

Hannah "went her way, and did eat." She returned to normal activities with a renewed spirit. Sometimes our strongest testimony is simply handling daily responsibilities with joy while waiting.

God's Concern for Our Emotions

Scripture specifically mentions Hannah's countenance because God cares about our emotional state, not just physical needs. He wants us to experience peace even amid unfulfilled desires.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, like Hannah, I bring my deepest desires before You. Help me rise from prayer with a changed countenance, regardless of my circumstances. Grant me faith to walk forward without worry and sorrow. May others see transformation in my life through Your peace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

#PrayerChangesEverything #FaithOverFeelings #CountenanceOfJoy

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Trusting His Heart #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Trusting His Heart #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

Trusting His Heart: How Understanding God's Love Deepens Our Faith

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Have you ever found yourself questioning God's presence in difficult circumstances? I was doing a devotion with my family yesterday, and as I went through verses about who we are in Christ, the Holy Spirit showed me something profound: our ability to have genuine faith is directly connected to our understanding of God's love. When life's challenges arise—whether illness, financial hardship, or relationship struggles—our trust often wavers, not because God has abandoned us, but because we struggle to believe He truly has our best interests at heart.

The depth of God's love extends far beyond our human comprehension. In the Old Testament, the concept of "loving kindness" reveals God's consistent care for His people, even when they strayed. Similarly, the New Testament's "agape" love demonstrates a profound commitment—what I'd define simply as God looking out for our best interest. This divine love was perfectly displayed when Christ willingly suffered on the cross, not because we deserved it, but because God saw something worth redeeming in us.

Our faith journey often resembles the Israelites' pattern in Scripture. When they turned from God, He allowed discipline in their lives but always sent prophets to guide them back. When they cried out from bondage, He responded with grace and deliverance. This cycle repeatedly demonstrates that even when circumstances seem bleak, God remains faithful. As I meditate on these biblical accounts, I begin to recognize this same pattern of faithfulness in my own life.

The world frequently questions how a loving God could permit suffering. This challenging question has no simple answer, but as believers, we can rest in the truth that God does not author evil. Rather, as Romans 8:28 assures us, He works all things—even painful experiences—together for good. I'm reminded of Corrie ten Boom, who discovered God's love even in a concentration camp. She learned that God's love extends even to places as horrible as that. We too can witness His presence in our darkest moments when we maintain faith in His character and promises.

My ability to trust God grows stronger as I experience His faithfulness firsthand. Each time I witness Him working through difficult circumstances—providing unexpected resources, opening doors, or bringing comfort in grief—my confidence in His love deepens. When I read Scripture and observe how God consistently demonstrated care for His people, I develop the assurance that He is equally devoted to me today, regardless of external evidence.

For many of us, including myself at times, faith struggles stem from uncertainty about God's intentions. We question whether He truly wants what's best for us when our prayers seem unanswered or our circumstances remain unchanged. I've known different people, and I've been there in my own life, struggling with faith because I did not trust that God truly was working things to my best interest. Yet Scripture consistently reveals that God's definition of "best" often differs from our own. His perspective encompasses eternity, while ours remains limited to the present.

Today, I encourage you to take time to meditate specifically on God's love. Beyond the familiar John 3:16, explore passages that speak of being "rooted and grounded in love" and knowing Christ's love that "passeth knowledge." As you reflect on these truths, allow them to transform your faith. Remember that we did nothing to recommend ourselves to God; He chose to love us because of who He is, not because of anything within ourselves. As I heard a preacher say yesterday on the radio, we certainly did nothing to recommend us to God, that He would want to love us. This unmerited favor provides the foundation for unwavering trust.

As you face this week's challenges, carry this truth with you: God's love is not dependent on your performance or circumstances. When doubts arise, return to Scripture's promises and recall times when God has proven faithful in your life. The peace and joy of the Christian life flow from this understanding—knowing we are deeply loved by our Creator, trusting His plan even when we cannot see it, and resting in the confidence that nothing can separate us from His love. This knowledge empowers us to live victoriously, regardless of what we face. So I hope that you remember the love of God today and that the love of God today brings about a deeper faith in your walk today.

#FaithFoundedInLove #GodsPlanInPain #VictoriousThroughTrust

Leading In The Dark #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Leading In The Dark #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 Leadership in the Darkness: The Stockdale Legacy

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." - Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)

When Admiral James Stockdale was held as a prisoner of war in Vietnam for seven years, he became the senior ranking officer among the prisoners. Despite brutal torture and isolation, he established an elaborate communication system using tap codes, allowing prisoners to encourage one another. His leadership was so profound that when soldiers were thrown into isolation, they would ask themselves, "What would Stockdale do in this situation?" Years later, when these men were freed, many attributed their survival to Stockdale's influence—a man they sometimes couldn't even see but whose character transcended the prison walls.

The prisoners couldn't see Stockdale in their darkest moments. They couldn't hear his voice or feel his presence. And yet, his example gave them strength when their own was depleted.

Timothy Keller captured this truth perfectly when he said, "True leadership has little to do with position and everything to do with disposition. It's not about the power you wield but the example you set when the cost of doing right is high."

Like Stockdale, we can influence others even when separated by walls of circumstance. Your unseen faithfulness may become the lifeline someone else needs to survive their own prison. Your quiet integrity might be the answer to someone asking, "What would a follower of Christ do?"

Prayer: Lord, help me lead through character when no one is watching. May my example transcend the walls that separate me from others, becoming strength for those I may never meet. Amen.

#InvisibleInfluence #PrisonToPromise #LeadershipLegacy

Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.

https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Prayer Shield #MorningGlory #RTTBROS

Prayer Shield #MorningGlory #RTTBROS 

Prayer Shield #MorningGlory #RTTBROS 

My Family's Prayer Shield: Standing in the Gap

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." - James 5:16b (KJV)

I've discovered a missing piece in my role as husband and father. God has been stirring me to rise early before work, using those quiet moments to cover my wife and children in prayer. Reading Stormie Omartian's "The Power of a Praying Husband" convicted me deeply - I had neglected this vital aspect of spiritual leadership in my home.

Each morning as I pray over my sleeping family, I feel God's presence strengthening me for the day ahead. I'm learning that my role isn't just provider and protector in the physical sense, but intercessor in the spiritual realm. These dawn prayers have become my first act of love each day.

I've noticed subtle changes already. There's a different atmosphere in our home - more peace, more patience. I find myself more attuned to my wife's needs and more sensitive to my children's hearts. My own anxieties about their futures have diminished as I entrust them daily to the Lord's care.

Job rose early to offer sacrifices for his children (Job 1:5), and I now understand the power of this spiritual discipline. My prayers create an invisible covering that follows my family throughout their day - a shield of faith against whatever challenges they may face.

This commitment to consistent prayer isn't always easy. Some mornings are harder than others. But I'm determined to maintain this practice, knowing that my family deserves my best spiritual leadership.

I'm no longer content to delegate the spiritual atmosphere of our home to chance. Through prayer, I'm actively participating in God's protective work in our lives. This may be the most important work I do each day.

#PrayerWarrior #SpiritualLeadership #FamilyFaith