Meditating The Word

Episode 09: Ephesians 2

Today's meditation is based on Ephesians 2 from the Passion Translation
God loves me with such great love. He is so rich in compassion and mercy.
Even when I was dead and doomed. In my many sins, he united me into the very life of Christ and saved me by his wonderful grace. 
He raised me up with Christ the exalted one, and I ascended with him into the glorious perfection and authority of the heavenly realm, for I am now co-seated as one with Christ. 
I am the visible display of the infinite limitless riches of His grace and kindness, which was showered upon me in Jesus Christ. 
It was only through this wonderful grace that I believed in Him. Nothing I did could ever earn this salvation, for it was a gracious gift from God that brought me to Christ. 
I have become his poetry. A re-created person who will fulfill the destiny he has given me, for I am joined to Jesus the Anointed One. Even before I was born, God planned in advance my destiny and the good works I will do to fulfill it. 
Everything is new. Although I was once distant and far away from God, now I have been brought delightfully close to him through the sacred blood of Jesus. I've actually been united to Christ. My reconciling peace is Jesus.
Because I am united to Christ, I have direct access in the realm of Holy Spirit to come before the Father. I am not a foreigner or guest, but rather a child of God with all the rights, as a family member of the household of God. 
My life is being built upon the ideal foundation laid by the apostles and prophets, and I'm connected to the head cornerstone, the Anointed One,  Jesus Christ Himself. 
God is transforming me into the Holy of Holies, his dwelling place through the power of the Holy Spirit living in me.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 08: Ephesians 1

Today's meditation is based on Ephesians 1 from the Passion Translation
Every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realm has already been lavished upon me as a love gift from my wonderful Heavenly Father. 
He chose me to be his very own, joining me to himself, even before he laid the foundation of the universe. 
Since I am now joined to Christ. I have been given the treasures of redemption by his blood. The total cancellation of my sins. All because of the cascading riches of his grace. 
This super abundant grace is already powerfully working in me, releasing within me all forms of wisdom and practical understanding through my union with Christ. 
I've been claimed by God as his own inheritance. 
Before I was even born. He gave me my destiny that I would fulfill the plan of God, who always accomplishes every purpose and plan in his heart.
I continually experience the immeasurable greatness of God's power made available to me, through faith. My life is an advertisement of his immense power as it works through me.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.

Episode 07: 1st Timothy 4-6

Today's Meditation is based on 1st Timothy 4-6, The Passion Translation
I know that all creation is beautiful to God and there is nothing to be refused if it is received with gratitude. All that I eat is made sacred by the Word of God and prayer. 
I am known as a faithful and good minister of Jesus, the Anointed One. I nurture others in the living words of faith and in the knowledge of grace which I was taught.
I abstain from senseless traditions and legends. Instead, I'm engaged in the training of truth that brings righteousness. 
My hope is in the living God. He is the wonderful life giver. 
I am not intimidated by others; I am simply being the example they need to see by being faithful and true in all I do. I speak the truth and live a life of purity and authentic love as I remain strong in my faith. 
I am diligent in devouring the Word of God, faithful in prayer, and in teaching. I do not minimize the powerful gift that operates in my life. I make this my constant meditation and make it real with my life so everyone can see that I'm moving forward.
I give careful attention to my spiritual life and every cherished truth I teach, for living what I speak will then release even more abundant life inside me and to all those who come in contact with me. 
I keep myself pure and holy with my standards high. 
I chase after true holiness, justice, faithfulness, love, hope and tender humility. I fight with faith for the winner's prize. I lay my hands on eternal life for this is my calling -- celebrating in faith before the multitude of witnesses. 
I am not wrapped in thoughts of pride over my prosperity, nor do I rely on my wealth. For my riches are unreliable and nothing compared to the living God. I trust instead in the one who has lavished upon me all good things, fulfilling my every need. 
I am rich in good words of extravagant generosity, willing to share with others. This provides a beautiful foundation for my life and secures for me a great future, as I lay my hands upon the meaning of true life. God's grace empowers me always.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 06: 1st Timothy 1-3

Today's Meditation is based on 1st Timothy 1-3, The Passion Translation
Abundant grace, mercy and total well-being are mine from God the Father and the Anointed One, my Lord Jesus. 
I reach the goal of fulfilling all the commandments by loving others deeply with a pure heart, a clean conscience and sincere faith. 
My heart spills over with thanks to God for the way he continually empowers me. I am flooded with such incredible grace, like a river overflowing its banks -- full of faith and love for Jesus, the Anointed One. 
My praises arise to the King of all the universe who is indestructible, invisible, and full of glory -- the only God who is worthy of the highest honors throughout the eternity of eternities.
I pray with gratitude to God, praying for all men with all forms of prayers and requests as I intercede with great passion. I pray for every political leader and representative so that we are able to live tranquil, undisturbed lives, and worship the awe-inspiring God with pure hearts. 
I pray on every occasion with hands lifted to God in worship with a clean heart, free from frustration or strife. 
I am recognized by my beautiful deeds of kindness suitable as one who worships God. 
I am willing to learn with all submission to my leaders and not speak out of turn. 
My children are consecrated, nurtured in faith and love, and walking in wisdom. 
I am without blame before others. I am recognized as one who is sensible, well-behaved and living a disciplined life. I have the gift of teaching and am known for my hospitality. I am recognized for my gentleness. 
My heart is set on guiding my household with wisdom and dignity, bringing up children to worship with devotion and purity. 
I am respected by those who are unbelievers, having a beautiful testimony among them. 
I am pure and true to my word. I faithfully embrace the mysteries of faith while keeping a clean conscience. I am trustworthy, a servant-leader without blame. 
I am dignified, faithful in all things. My thoughts are set on truth. I lead my household with excellence. I speak boldly in the faith that comes from the anointing of Jesus.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing
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Episode 05: 2nd Thessalonians

Today's Meditation is based on 2nd Thessalonians 1-3, The Passion Translation
God's delightful grace and peace rest upon me. My faith is growing marvelously beyond measure. The unselfish love I have for others is increasing and overflowing. 
I demonstrate unwavering faith and unflinching endurance through all the persecutions and painful trials I experience. 
God empowers me to live worthy of all he has invited me to experience and by his power, all the pleasures of goodness and all works inspired by faith fill me completely. The Lord Jesus is glorified in me, and I am glorified in him by the marvelous grace of God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I am dearly loved by the Lord. He proved it by choosing me from the beginning for salvation through the Spirit, who set me apart for holiness and through my belief in the truth. He hand picked me for salvation through the gospel so that I would have the glory of the Lord, Jesus Christ. 
Jesus and my Father God, who loved me and in his wonderful grace gave me eternal comfort and a beautiful hope that cannot fail, encourages my heart and inspires me with strength to always do and speak what is good and beautiful in his eyes. 
The Lord moves my heart into a greater understanding of God's pure love for me and into Christ's steadfast endurance. 
The Lord Yahweh is always faithful to place me on a firm foundation and guard me from the evil one. 
The Lord himself, the Lord of peace, pours his peace into me in every circumstance and in every possible way. His tangible presence is with me.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing
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Episode 04: 1st Thessalonians

Today's Meditation is based on 1st Thessalonians 1-5, The Passion Translation
God's delightful grace and peace rest upon me. I put my faith into practice and my love motivates me to serve others. My hope-filled patience in my Lord, Jesus Christ, is unrelenting.
I am dearly loved by God and he has chosen me to be his very own.
His Word is a continual, energizing force in me. Father God and my precious Lord Jesus guide my steps on a straight path. The Lord increases my love until it overflows toward all people and my heart is strengthened in holiness.
God's will is for me to be set apart for him in holiness. His call on my life is not to a life of compromise, but to a life surrounded in holiness. And so I let unselfish love increase and flow through me more and more. 
I lead a calm and peaceful life, minding my own business and earning my living. I live honorably, influencing others and commanding respect of even unbelievers. I am in need of nothing and do not dependent upon others, because I know that God alone is my source.
I am a child of the light and of the day. I don't belong to the night or to the darkness. I stay wide awake and clear-headed by placing the breastplate of faith and love over my heart and the helmet of hope and salvation over my thoughts. 
God has not destined me to experience wrath but to possess salvation through Jesus, the Anointed One.
I show deep appreciation for those who cherish me and diligently minister to me. My leaders who care for me, teach me and stand before the Lord on my behalf. They value me greatly with love. And I honor them with my love and respect. 
I am skillful at encouraging those who feel inadequate. I am faithful to stand my ground, and help the weak to stand again. I am quick to demonstrate patience with everyone. I resist revenge and always pursue doing what is beautiful to others.
Joy is my continual feast. My life is a prayer and I give thanks in the midst of everything, always. This is God's perfect plan for me in Christ Jesus. 
The God of peace and harmony sets me apart, making me completely holy. My entire being -- spirit, soul and body -- are kept completely flawless. The One who calls me by name is trustworthy and will thoroughly complete his work in me. 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing
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Episode 03: Proverbs 31

Today's Meditation is based on Proverbs 31:10-30 from The Passion Translation
I am a woman of strength and mighty valor. I am full of wealth and wisdom. Jesus paid a price for me greater than many jewels. I bring my family the rich spoils of victory and through my life, I bring what is good and not evil. 
I search continually to possess that which is pure and righteous. I delight in the work of my hands. 
I give out revelation truth to feed others, like a trading ship bringing divine supplies from the merchant.
Even in the night season, when the world seems dark, I rise up in power and set food on the table for the hungry ones in my house and for others.
I set my heart upon this nation, and take it as my own, carrying it within me, and praying for its leaders. I labor to plant living vines that bring forth fruit in my church, my community and my country.
I wrap myself in strength, might and power in all my works.  My work is profitable., and my shining light will not be extinguished no matter how dark the night. My prayer life overcomes my circumstances, even in a culture where darkness prevails.
I stretch out my hands to help the needy, blessing them with my prosperity. I am known by my extravagant generosity to the poor, for I always reach out my hands to those in need.
I am not afraid of tribulation because my household is covered in the dual garments of righteousness and grace.
My clothing is beautifully knit together.
Even my works of righteousness, I do for the benefit of my enemies. 
Bold power and glorious majesty are wrapped around me as I laugh with joy over the latter days.
My teachings are filled with wisdom and kindness as loving instruction pours from my lips.
I watch over the ways of my household and meet every need they have. 
My family rises in one accord to extol my virtues and speak of me in glowing terms. 
Charm can be misleading and beauty is vain and so quickly fades, but I will be praised because I live in the wonder, awe and fear of the Lord.
Until the next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 02: 1 Corinthians 15 & 16

Today's Meditation is based on 1 Corinthians 15:57 & 58 and 1 Corinthians 16:13& 14 from The Passion Translation
I thank God for giving me the victory as conqueror through my Lord Jesus, the Anointed One. I stand firm and secure. I live my life with an unshakable confidence. I know that I prosper and excel in every season by serving the Lord, because I am assured my union with Jesus makes my labor productive with fruit that endures. 
I stay alert and hold firmly to all that I believe. I am mighty and full of courage. Love and kindness are the motivation behind all that I do.
 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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Episode 01: 1 Corinthians 13

Today's meditation is based on 1 Cor 13:4-8 & 13, The Passion Translation.
I am incredibly patient. I am gentle and consistently kind to all. I refuse to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. I do not brag about my achievements nor inflate my own importance. I do not traffic in shame and disrespect nor selfishly seek my own honor. I am not easily irritated or quick to take offense. I joyfully celebrate honesty and find no delight in what is wrong. I am a safe place of shelter for I never stop believing the best for others. I never take failure as defeat for I never give up. I never stop loving. 
Above all, love is the beautiful prize for which I run. 
 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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Episode 00: Welcome to Meditating the Word

Welcome to Episode 0 of Meditating the Word.
After Moses died, the Lord spoke to Joshua and gave him the secret to success: "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." Joshua 1:8
I believe this is still the key to success today for all of us.
So, what does this mean, exactly? 
The book of the law is scripture, it's God's Word to humankind. 
He says not to let it depart from your mouth. In other words, we should be speaking God's Words, not our own words, or the words we have heard someone else speak. Jesus said he only spoke what he heard his Father say. 
God said to meditate in it day and night. The word meditate means to muse, mutter, talk about, consider, sigh -- even to sing! It's not just sitting there thinking (or not thinking), although considering it is a part of meditation. Obviously, we can't just sit and meditate all day and all night. But as we go about our day, our words should be God's Words, our thoughts should be God's thoughts which Isaih 55:8 & 9 tells us are higher than our natural thoughts, and as Colossians 3:23 tells us, everything we do should be done as if it we were doing it for Christ. 
If we meditate on God's Word, we will gain understanding, then it's up to us to follow his direction. Psalm 32:8 tells us he will instruct us and teach us in the way we should go.
Let's face it, most of us don't have a problem musing, muttering, talking about things, thinking about things, sighing about things -- even singing along to the latest tune on the radio. It's what we choose to say (and sing!) that's the problem. (Seriously, pay attention to the lyrics of those songs!) We tell ourselves lies -- sometimes the lies someone else told us -- over and over again. And if you repeat a lie enough times, you will believe it's true. The good news is, if you repeat the TRUTH enough times, you will believe it too!
Our words have power. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that the power of life and death are in the tongue. A lot of people teach and practice saying positive affirmations. And they do work. But God's Word isn't just positive, it's anointed. 
And it has just as much power today as it did when God spoke it or Spirit breathed it into writing through the prophets, apostles and disciples. 
Most people will agree that words are powerful. And the SPOKEN word is even more powerful than the words you read or think. God created the universe and everything in it by speaking. When you read the account of creation in the Book of Genesis, you will see that God said before God saw. Then he created man in his image. He created us to speak over and into our lives. He gave us authority in the earth. He gave us dominion over the earth. And yes, Adam and Eve gave that authority away to the enemy, but the good news of the gospel is: Jesus got it back and gave it back to us!
Your words can create or your words can destroy. And I believe the two most powerful words are "I am" and whatever you choose to follow those two words sets the course of your life. 
What words are you speaking?
What if instead of speaking what we think about ourselves, or what others have told us about ourselves, or what we heard on the news, or in that song on the radio... what if instead we spoke God's Word over ourselves? What if we personalized and prayed scripture as a form of daily meditation?
Well I believe, as God told Joshua, that THEN you will make your way prosperous and THEN you shall have good success. 
That's what this podcast is all about. God put it on my heart a while back to start personalizing what I was reading in my morning "God time". Part of my journaling is re-writing scripture in the first person and then speaking it out loud. It's my way of meditating God's Word and speaking it over my life. And I have found it to be a pretty powerful practice. And in Isaiah 55:11, God tells us his word will not return to him void (without producing any effect), but will prosper where he sent it.
He sent it to you and to me. 
I invite you to go on a journey with me. Together, we can speak God's Word into and over our lives and our circumstances. God's Word changes things. 
Pastor Tom Underhill went home to be with the Lord Sunday morning, October 10, 2021. Joshua 1:8-9 was one of his favorite passages of scripture. He taught on it often. His life reflected the truths in God's Word and it has been my honor and privilege to sit under his teaching since 2004. As Paul said in Hebrews 6:12, we should be followers of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Pastor Tom's faith and patience have been a guiding light for me and countless others. With unending love and tremendous respect, I dedicate this podcast, Meditating The Word, to him.
I know time is precious. Thank you for tuning in. Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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