The Love the Lord Your God Devotional provides a method for praying through Scripture. This technique enables readers to connect with God's Word on a deeper level. It moves readers beyond just reading words on a page to experiencing the inspired Word of God speaking directly into their hearts.
Deuteronomy 6:5-6 commands us to “Love the Lord with all of our heart, soul, and strength.” This sets the stage for seven chapters, which each highlight one of the following verses: Romans 1:20, Psalm 46:10, Mark 12:30-31, John 3:16, 2 Tim 3:16, Philippians 4:4-9, and 1 Chronicles 16:23-29. These are the actors which tell God’s story of love to us and through us. Each devotional meditation, Scripture, and "Pray-it-Through" style prayer—is like a supporting actor focusing on the same theme. Why did God give us the command to love Him and others? You’ll have to read the devotional to find out!
Deborah’s modeling of praying through Scripture defines words and verses with literal and spiritual meanings. This is vital in understanding God’s Word and making a personal application to one's life. The E-book is beautifully illustrated and shaded in lovely watercolors with accompanying sketch art.
I enjoyed creating a companion Bible Study for each chapter’s conclusion. These studies allow you to get into the Word, answer a few questions, and make notes from the verse and prayer meditations to draw you into a deeper walk with the Lord.
Cast all your anxiety on the Lord!
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 NIV
I’d like you to visualize something in your mind with me. Picture yourself, or your favorite fisherman/woman, casting their baited line into the water. They use a forceful motion, right? My point? Daily, I take my praise, my petitions, my cares (Philippians 4:4-8) to the Lord. But casting, gives us the image of—throwing, hurling, projecting—them.
Now think about that thing that is weighing on your mind. Instead of “giving” it to God, try some “casting.” ‘Cause I don’t know about you, but life is difficult enough without holding onto the past, pain, or hurts-gone-by.
Dear Lord, teach us to do a little “casting,” to not only give everything to You in prayer, but to really project _________________ to Your highest heaven. Because if we will, we’ll find Your care, deeper faith, and that You meet us with the sweetest fellowship. We’ll be communing with You as our Teacher, Best Friend and Provider. We’ll become stronger disciples that share the Good News, near and far. Amen.
Casting our cares on the Lord relieves us of burdens. It gains us God’s perspective, peace, and causes fewer weights to be tugging at us. In order to “fish for Jesus,” You have to cast out, before you can “bring in” souls for His kingdom.