Returning to Intimacy

Author: youngpl24

  • God Our Defender!

    Righteous Father,
    We come before You in holy reverence, lifting our eyes above the chaos of this present world and anchoring our hearts in Your eternal truth. You have declared in Isaiah 54 that we are not forsaken, not forgotten, not cast away, but redeemed by the Lord of Hosts, our Holy One, our Defender.

    Though the earth shakes and nations rage, we stand on the unshakable foundation of Your covenant love. You said, “No weapon formed against us shall prosper,” and we declare it boldly today. Every tongue that rises in judgment, we condemn it, for this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and our righteousness is of You.

    Lord, You see the injustice, the corruption, the violence, the persecution of Your people. Arise, O God, and vindicate Your name. Let Your judgment roll down like waters, and Your righteousness like a mighty stream. As You promised, “with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on you,” so let Your mercy shield us even while Your justice purifies the earth.

    We thank You that You have sworn that “the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but My kindness shall not depart from you, nor shall My covenant of peace be removed.” So we stand under that covenant today, fearless in the face of darkness, because You Yourself have built us, established us in righteousness, and declared, “You shall be far from oppression.”

    We renounce fear. We renounce shame. We break agreement with every voice of defeat, and we rise as the redeemed, clothed in strength, crowned with favor, and covered in the blood of Jesus. You are our Rear Guard. You are our Shield and Exceeding Great Reward.

    Let the Church arise in boldness. Let the saints declare Your Word with authority. Let vindication come from Your throne, not by might, not by power, but by Your Spirit, O Lord.

    We declare today: No weapon, no lie, no attack shall prevail. The Lord is our Avenger, and our victory is secured in Him.

    In the mighty name of Jesus,
    Amen.

  • The Bible

    What book could you read over and over again?

    The Bible is like a personal roadmap for life, full of wisdom, encouragement, and direction for every step of the journey. It helps us understand God’s heart and shows us how to live with purpose, love, and integrity. When life feels uncertain or overwhelming, the Bible gently points us back to the right path, reminding us that we’re never alone. Through its stories, truths, and promises, it teaches us how to grow in faith, make wise choices, and trust God every step of the way.

  • My Calling

    What job would you do for free?

    For more than two decades, I have freely dedicated my time, heart, and resources to serving others, walking with individuals through some of the hardest seasons of their lives. From providing food and clothing, to praying with them, helping them find shelter, guiding them through job readiness, and even coaching them toward self-sufficiency, I’ve done it all as a volunteer.

    Not because I had to, but because I was called to.

    This work has never been about recognition or reward. It’s been about answering a higher calling to love people back to life, spiritually, emotionally, and practically.

    Now, through Lazarus Restoration Ministries, I’m formalizing what I’ve already been doing freely for years, so that we can reach more people, build a strong infrastructure, and create sustainable change.

    This isn’t just a nonprofit project. It’s the expansion of a life’s mission. Pray for us to receive funding for a larger building. We will accept any donations for help. $LRMInc

  • For Such A Time As This!

    Set Apart for the King

    “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9

    From the beginning, God has always set apart a people for Himself, those who would walk in His ways, reflect His glory, and prepare the world for His return. As true followers of Christ, we are not called to blend into the world but to stand out, to be lights in the darkness, to be vessels for the Master’s use.

    Holiness is not an option for God’s people, it is our identity. Leviticus 20:26 says, “You are to be holy to me because I, the Lord, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own.” Holiness is not perfection in ourselves, but a complete surrender to Christ, allowing Him to work through us. It is a life of obedience, reflecting the character of the One we serve.

    Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” While the world chases after temporary pleasures, we set our eyes on eternal things, living each day with the expectancy of our Lord’s return.

    Jesus made it clear that His return is near, and He has given us a mission: to proclaim His kingdom and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). True Christians are not passive spectators; we are ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), workers in the harvest field (Matthew 9:37-38), and watchmen on the walls (Ezekiel 33:7).

    The Apostle Paul urges us in 2 Timothy 2:21, “Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.” We have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus, set apart to carry out His will. Every act of love, every prayer lifted, every soul reached, these are the works of those who are truly devoted to the King.

    As we wait for Christ’s return, we must live as a prepared bride. In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually awake and ready. Only those who had their lamps filled with oil, the Holy Spirit, were ready when the Bridegroom came.

    Revelation 19:7 declares, “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.” True Christians live each day as if today could be the day He returns, keeping our hearts pure and our eyes fixed on Jesus.

    We are living in the last days, and now more than ever, God is calling His remnant to stand firm. The world may reject truth, but we remain steadfast in Christ. Matthew 24:13 reminds us, “The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” We are not swayed by culture, fear, or persecution, because we belong to a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28).

    Being set apart is not about being perfect, it is about being surrendered. It is about saying “yes” to God when the world says “no.” It is about shining His light, walking in His truth, and preparing the way for the King of kings.

    Beloved, this is our time to rise up, to live boldly for Jesus, and to declare His coming. May we be found faithful, ready, and set apart for His glory.

    “Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” – Revelation 22:12

    Let us serve our Creator with joy, for He is coming soon! For such a time as this!

  • Abiding In Him

    What are your morning rituals? What does the first hour of your day look like?

    When I wake up, the first thing I do is acknowledge the Lord. Before anything else, I thank Him for a new day, for His presence, and for His faithfulness in my life. I take a moment to pray, surrendering my day to Him, asking for His guidance, and inviting the Holy Spirit to lead me in all I do.

    I spend time in His Word, letting His truth fill my heart and mind. Whether it’s a passage of Scripture, a promise I’m holding onto, or a word He places on my heart, I meditate on it, allowing it to shape my thoughts. Worship is part of my morning too—whether through song, quiet reflection, or simply speaking His praises.

    Each day, I take Holy Communion, remembering the sacrifice of Jesus and the victory I have in Him. It’s a sacred moment, a reminder that I am covered by His blood and walking in His grace. Sometimes, I write in my journal, recording what He’s speaking to me, prayers I’m lifting up, or reflections on His goodness.

    As I step into the day, I do so with confidence, knowing that God has gone before me. No matter what comes, I am anchored in Him.

  • Wait For It!

    Wait For It—The Power of Staying in Position

    Yesterday, my Pastor delivered a powerful word that stirred my spirit and brought back the season I went through this very subject. The message was clear: Do not depart from Jerusalem—Wait for it! (Acts 1:4). In a world that glorifies speed, convenience, and instant results, waiting feels unnatural. But if we truly desire the power of God, we must learn to embrace the wait.

    Are You Killing Time or Preparing for Power?

    Pastor Mike challenged us with a thought-provoking question: When we wait, are we just passing time, or are we preparing for something greater?

    Before the disciples could experience the outpouring of Acts 2, they had to wait in obedience in Acts 1. They didn’t rush ahead or try to force God’s timing, they positioned themselves, unified in prayer, expectant for the promise.

    The Word reminds us over and over again that waiting is where God works:

    “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31)

    I know what it feels like to want to give up when waiting seems too hard to bear. There was a season in my life when my marriage was incredibly emotional and difficult. I felt weary, broken, and ready to walk away. I cried out to the Holy Spirit, hoping for an escape, but instead, He spoke something unexpected: Your husband is your assignment. Wait on Me.

    It wasn’t easy, but I obeyed. I held on when I wanted to let go. I sought God when I didn’t understand. And now, looking back, I thank Him that I waited. God was preparing both my husband and me to learn how to truly love one another. That season shaped us in ways I never imagined, and before my husband went home to be with the Lord, we experienced the kind of love that only God could build.

    Waiting wasn’t just about endurance, it was about preparation.

    Three Keys Pastor Mike addressed if we truly want to walk in God’s power, we must:

    1. Ask for the Holy Spirit Our greatest priority should be seeking Him (Luke 11:13). Many want the power, but few take the time to ask for the infilling.
    2. Experience the Holy Spirit Acts 2:1-2 tells us the disciples were in one accord, waiting with expectation. The Spirit didn’t come on their schedule, He came when they were ready.

    Ephesians 5:18 reminds us that while every believer is sealed with the Holy Spirit, not every believer is continuously filled. We must stay hungry for His presence.

    1. Walk in the Effects of the Holy Spirit – When the Spirit fills us, we won’t stay the same:

    Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) – Our character transforms.

    Boldness (Acts 4:31) – Fear is replaced with confidence in Christ.

    Direction (Acts 13:2) – The Spirit speaks and leads us.

    Power (Acts 1:8) – We become true witnesses for the Kingdom.

    Final Thought: Don’t Rush Past Acts 1

    Pastor made it plain: If you want the power of Acts 2, don’t rush past Acts 1. The waiting season isn’t about delay; it’s about preparation.

    Call to Action
    Are you frustrated in the waiting, or are you expectant? Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you afresh today. Be intentional, don’t rush ahead, don’t try to force it. Stay in position, and wait for it.

  • You+Jesus=the Majority

    The world may count numbers, but God counts faith. No matter how outnumbered, overlooked, or overwhelmed you feel, when God is with you, you already have the victory. Scripture reminds us time and time again that one person walking in obedience with God is greater than any army, opposition, or circumstance.

    1. God Fights for You
      “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14

    When the Israelites were trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the Red Sea, fear told them they were defeated. But God was with them, and that changed everything. One word from Him, and the sea parted. No matter what stands before you, trust that God fights your battles.

    1. With God, Numbers Don’t Matter
      “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” 2 Kings 6:16

    Elisha’s servant was terrified when he saw the enemy’s army surrounding them. But Elisha saw what the servant couldn’t, heaven’s army was already there, fighting on their behalf. You are never alone. Even if you can’t see it, God’s power surrounds you.

    1. God Uses the Few to Defeat the Many
      “With God, we will gain the victory, and He will trample down our enemies.” Psalm 60:12

    Gideon had 32,000 men, but God reduced his army to just 300, because God wanted the victory to be by His hand alone (Judges 7:2-7). Whether you have many or few, if God is on your side, you have more than enough.

    1. Nothing Can Stand Against God’s Plan
      “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31

    When God is with you, no enemy can overpower you, no opposition can stop you, and no situation can defeat you. The victory is already secured in Christ Jesus.

    Walk Boldly in This Truth!

    You don’t need the approval of the crowd, the backing of an army, or the reassurance of numbers. You + God = The Majority. Stand firm, move in faith, and trust that He who is with you is greater than anything that comes against you!

    Prayer:
    Lord, I thank You that with You, I am never the underdog. I refuse to be intimidated by circumstances, because I know that You are my victory. Strengthen my faith to see beyond what is visible, to trust beyond what is natural, and to move boldly knowing that You alone are enough. I declare that I am on the winning side because I am on Your side. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

  • The Gift of Laughter

    What makes you laugh?

    What brings me joy and fills my heart with laughter? My children and my family, whose love and humor brighten my days. A good, clean comedy movie that brings pure, wholesome laughter. But most of all, the breathtaking beauty of God’s creation, the golden hues of a sunrise, the peaceful glow of a sunset, the delicate beauty of flowers, all reminders of His love and artistry truly brings joy to my heart.

  • A Timeless Warning

    Learning from the Israelites’ Disobedience

    There is truly nothing new under the sun. The world we live in today, filled with rebellion, self-seeking desires, and disregard for God’s commandments, is simply history repeating itself. The story of the Israelites is our story. Their cycle of disobedience, rebellion, consequences, and God’s mercy is a mirror reflecting our own tendencies as a people.

    Throughout the Old Testament, we see a recurring theme: God delivers His people, sets them apart for His glory, and gives them commands for their well-being. Yet, time and time again, they turn away from Him, chasing after idols, indulging in sin, and relying on their own wisdom instead of trusting the Lord.

    One of the most striking examples of this is found in Judges 2:11-15, where it says:

    “Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. They forsook the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the Lord’s anger… In His anger against Israel, the Lord gave them into the hands of raiders who plundered them.”

    Their disobedience had consequences: they were conquered by their enemies, suffered famine, and were taken into captivity. In Deuteronomy 28, God laid out the blessings of obedience and the curses of disobedience, warning them that if they turned away, they would experience devastation. And yet, despite His clear instructions, they repeatedly ignored His voice.

    Fast forward to today, and we see the same pattern unfolding. Our modern world has turned away from God, placing confidence in wealth, power, and self-sufficiency instead of in Him. We’ve allowed idolatry to take root, not in the form of golden calves, but through materialism, entertainment, and the pursuit of personal pleasure over righteousness.

    Just as the Israelites faced the consequences of their rebellion, so do we. We see wars, disasters, economic turmoil, moral decay, and broken families, all symptoms of a world that has distanced itself from the truth of God’s Word. Yet, through it all, God still calls His people to return to Him, just as He did with Israel.

    The Only Hope: Trusting in Christ

    Despite their disobedience, God never abandoned the Israelites. He sent prophets to call them back, provided deliverance when they repented, and ultimately sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem not only Israel but the entire world.

    Today, we are called to put our trust, hope, and confidence in Jesus Christ. He alone can lead us through these tumultuous times. The Holy Spirit is our guide, helping us navigate a world that often feels like it is spiraling out of control. John 16:13 reminds us:

    “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.”

    We must remain anchored in God’s Word, refusing to follow the patterns of this world. Instead of repeating the mistakes of the Israelites, let’s learn from them and choose obedience.

    A Call to Action
    Who do you trust? Are you relying on your own understanding, or are you allowing God to lead you? The choice is before us: continue the cycle of disobedience, or fully surrender to the Lord and walk in His ways.

    Let’s take heed of history, seek God wholeheartedly, and trust in Jesus Christ, our only true source of peace and security.

  • God’s Love

    What’s something most people don’t understand?

    Most people don’t fully understand that the love of God is unconditional and unchanging. Unlike human love, which often depends on behavior, feelings, or circumstances, God’s love is not based on what we do or don’t do. He loves us at our best and at our worst.

    Another thing many people struggle to grasp is that God’s love is not just emotional but transformational. It doesn’t just accept us as we are, it calls us higher, leading us to repentance, healing, and purpose. His love is both tender and refining, embracing us while also shaping us into the image of Christ.

    Many also believe they have to earn His love, yet the truth is that His love was given freely through Jesus Christ. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” He loved us before we ever loved Him.

    Lastly, God’s love is never absent, even in suffering. Many wonder, “If God loves me, why am I going through this?” But His love doesn’t always remove hardships, it walks us through them, using even pain for our growth and His glory. His love is eternal, faithful, and deeper than we can comprehend.