Hi Guys, with the exams going on & coming, I pray to God to give everyone of you the Wisdom, Strength, Good Health & Focus in preparing for your exams. The followings are God's promises to us. Should you face any situation during this period of time, rest assured that God is always there for you:



Promises in times of Fear:
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; Psalm 91:11
10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7


Promises to give Hope:
11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:11
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[j] who[k] have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1Corinthians 13:4-7
16May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17


Promises of Forgiveness:
7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Psalm 51: 7-9
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:11-12
14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15
13For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14in whom we have redemption,[e] the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14
13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13
9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9


Promises of Joy:
Don’t be sad because the joy you have in the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10b
In him our hearts find joy. In his holy name we trust. Psalm 33:21
Righteous people will find joy in the Lord and take refuge in him. Everyone whose motives are decent will be able to brag. Psalm 64:10
Come, let’s sing joyfully to the Lord. Let’s shout happily to the rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1
Let them bring songs of thanksgiving as their sacrifice. Let them tell in joyful songs what he has done. Psalm 107:22
Your written instructions are mine forever. They are the joy of my heart. Psalm 119:111
May God, the source of hope, fill you with joy and peace through your faith in him. Then you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13


Promises of Love:
The Lord appeared to me in a faraway place and said, “I love you with an everlasting love. So I will continue to show you my kindness.” Jeremiah 31:3
God loved the world this way: He gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not die but have eternal life. John 3:16
I loved you the same way the Father has loved me. So live in my love. John 15:9
Christ died for us while we were still sinners. This demonstrates God’s love for us. Romans 5:8
Nothing can ever separate us from God’s love which Christ Jesus our Lord shows us. We can’t be separated by death or life, by angels or rulers, by anything in the present or anything in the future, by forces or powers in the world below or anything else in creation. Romans 8:33b-39
God has shown us his love by sending his only Son into the world so that we could have life through him. 1 John 4:9.
We have known and believed that God loves us. God is love. Those who live in God’s love live in God, and God lives in them. 1 John 4:16


Promises of Peace:
I fall asleep in peace the moment I lie down because you alone, O Lord, enable me to live securely. Psalm 4:8
The Lord will give power to his people. The Lord will bless his people with peace. Psalm 29:11
Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the Nations. I rule the Earth. Psalm 46:10
With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust you. Isaiah 26:3
I’m leaving you peace. I’m giving you my peace. I don’t give you the kind of peace that the world gives. So don’t be troubled or cowardly. John 14:27
Also, let Christ’s peace control you. God has called you into this peace by bringing you into one body. Be thankful. Colossians 3:!5
Try to live peacefully with everyone, and try to live holy lives, because if you don’t you will not see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14
People who want to live a full life and enjoy good days must keep their tongues from saying evil things… they must turn away from evil and do good. They must seek peace and pursue it. 1 Peter 3:10-11


Promises of Salvation:
A child will be born for us. A son will be given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. He will me named: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Indeed, the Son of Man has come to seek and to save people who are lost. Luke 19:10
God loved the world in this way: He gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not die but have eternal life. John 3:16
Don’t be troubled. Believe in God, and believe in me. My Father’s house has many rooms. If that were not true, would I have told you that I’m going to prepare a place for you? If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again. Then I will bring you into my presence so that you will be where I am. John 14:1-3
Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you and your family will be saved. Acts 16:31
The reward for sin is death, but the gift that God freely gives is everlasting life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
God saved you through faith as an act of kindness. You had nothing to do with it. Being saved is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8


When Anxious or Impatient:
Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Brothers and sisters, be patient until the Lord comes again. See how farmers wait for their precious crops to grow. They wait patiently for fall and spring rains. You, too, must be patient. Don't give up hope. The Lord will soon be here. Brothers and sisters, follow the example of the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. They were patient when they suffered unjustly. We consider those who endure to be blessed. You have heard about Job's endurance. You saw that the Lord ended Job's suffering because the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:7-8, 10-11
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "So I tell you to stop worrying about what you will eat or wear. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothes. "Can any of you add an hour to your life by worrying? If you can't do a small thing like that, why worry about other things? "Don't concern yourself about what you will eat or drink, and quit worrying about these things. Rather, be concerned about his kingdom. Then these things will be provided for you. Luke 12:22-23, 25-26, 29, 31
We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God—those whom he has called according to his plan. Romans 8:2
Trust the LORD, and do good things. Live in the land, and practice being faithful. Be happy with the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Entrust your ways to the LORD. Trust him, and he will act on your behalf. He will make your righteousness shine like a light, your just cause like the noonday sun. Surrender yourself to the LORD, and wait patiently for him. Psalm 37:3-7a


When Discouraged:
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When may I come to see God's face? My tears are my food day and night. People ask me all day long, "Where is your God?" I will remember these things as I pour out my soul: how I used to walk with the crowd and lead it in a procession to God's house. I sang songs of joy and thanksgiving while crowds of people celebrated a festival. Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God. My soul is discouraged. That is why I will remember you in the land of Jordan, on the peaks of Hermon, on Mount Mizar. One deep sea calls to another at the roar of your waterspouts. All the whitecaps on your waves have swept over me. The LORD commands his mercy during the day, and at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life. I will ask God, my rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I walk around in mourning while the enemy oppresses me?" With a shattering blow to my bones, my enemies taunt me. They ask me all day long, "Where is your God?" Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God. Psalm 42
Dear friends, even though we say these things, we are still convinced that better things are in store for you and that they will save you. God is fair. He won't forget what you've done or the love you've shown for him. You helped his holy people, and you continue to help them. Hebrews 6:9-10
God our Father loved us and by his kindness gave us everlasting encouragement and good hope. Together with our Lord Jesus Christ, may he encourage and strengthen you to do and say everything that is good. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
What can we say about all of this? If God is for us, who can be against us? God didn't spare his own Son but handed him over to death for all of us. So he will also give us everything along with him. Who will accuse those whom God has chosen? God has approved of them. Who will condemn them? Christ has died, and more importantly, he was brought back to life. Christ has the highest position in heaven. Christ also intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love Christ has for us? Can trouble, distress, persecution, hunger, nakedness, danger, or violent death separate us from his love? As Scripture says: "We are being killed all day long because of you. We are thought of as sheep to be slaughtered." The one who loves us gives us an overwhelming victory in all these difficulties. I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love which Christ Jesus our Lord shows us. We can't be separated by death or life, by angels or rulers, by anything in the present or anything in the future, by forces or powers in the world above or in the world below, or by anything else in creation. Romans 8:31-39
Turn your burdens over to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will never let the righteous person stumble. Psalm 55:22
I've told you this so that my peace will be with you. In the world you'll have trouble. But cheer up! I have overcome the world. John 16:33


When Sick or Suffering:
O LORD my God, I cried out to you for help, and you healed me. Psalm 30:2
If you are sick, call for the church leaders. Have them pray for you and anoint you with olive oil in the name of the Lord. (Prayers offered in faith will save those who are sick, and the Lord will cure them.) If you have sinned, you will be forgiven. So admit your sins to each other, and pray for each other so that you will be healed. Prayers offered by those who have God's approval are effective. James 5:14-16
When Jesus went to Peter's house, he saw Peter's mother-in-law in bed with a fever. Jesus touched her hand, and the fever went away. So she got up and prepared a meal for him. In the evening the people brought him many who were possessed by demons. He forced the +evil=spirits out of people with a command and cured everyone who was sick. So what the prophet Isaiah had said came true: "He took away our weaknesses and removed our diseases." Matthew 8:14-17
The LORD will support him on his sickbed. You will restore this person to health when he is ill. Psalm 41:3
Praise the LORD, my soul! Praise his holy name, all that is within me. Praise the LORD, my soul, and never forget all the good he has done: He is the one who forgives all your sins, the one who heals all your diseases, the one who rescues your life from the pit, the one who crowns you with mercy and compassion, the one who fills your life with blessings so that you become young again like an eagle. Psalm 103:1-5
But he told me: "My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak." So I will brag even more about my weaknesses in order that Christ's power will live in me. Therefore, I accept weakness, mistreatment, hardship, persecution, and difficulties suffered for Christ. It's clear that when I'm weak, I'm strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
He is the healer of the brokenhearted. He is the one who bandages their wounds. Psalm 147:3
Now that we have God's approval by faith, we have peace with God because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done. Through Christ we can approach God and stand in his favor. So we brag because of our confidence that we will receive glory from God. But that's not all. We also brag when we are suffering. We know that suffering creates endurance, endurance creates character, and character creates confidence. We're not ashamed to have this confidence, because God's love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:1-5
Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed. Rescue me, and I will be rescued. You are the one I praise. Jeremiah 17:14

When Facing Difficult Times:
Call on me in times of trouble. I will rescue you, and you will honor me. Psalm 50:15
Have pity on me, O God. Have pity on me, because my soul takes refuge in you. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until destructive storms pass by. I call to God Most High, to the God who does everything for me. He sends his help from heaven and saves me. He disgraces the one who is harassing me. God sends his mercy and his truth! Psalm 57:1-3
My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you are tested in different ways. You know that such testing of your faith produces endurance. Endure until your testing is over. Then you will be mature and complete, and you won't need anything. James 1:2-4
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end. Psalm 23
Listen to my cry for help, O God. Pay attention to my prayer. From the ends of the earth, I call to you when I begin to lose heart. Lead me to the rock that is high above me. You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy. I would like to be a guest in your tent forever and to take refuge under the protection of your wings. Psalm 61:1-4
Because Jesus experienced temptation when he suffered, he is able to help others when they are tempted. Hebrews 2:18
Brothers and sisters, we don't want you to be ignorant about the suffering we experienced in the province of Asia. It was so extreme that it was beyond our ability to endure. We even wondered if we could go on living. In fact, we still feel as if we're under a death sentence. But we suffered so that we would stop trusting ourselves and learn to trust God, who brings the dead back to life. He has rescued us from a terrible death, and he will rescue us in the future. 2 Corinthians 1:8-10
Trust him at all times, you people. Pour out your hearts in his presence. God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8
The LORD is good. He is a fortress in the day of trouble. He knows those who seek shelter in him. Nahum 1:7
The Lord will rescue me from all harm and will take me safely to his heavenly kingdom. Glory belongs to him forever! Amen. 2 Timothy 4:18
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When may I come to see God's face? My tears are my food day and night. People ask me all day long, "Where is your God?" Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God. Psalm 42:1-3, 5
The LORD's eyes are on righteous people. His ears hear their cry for help. Righteous peoplecry out. The LORD hears and rescues them from all their troubles. The LORD is near to those whose hearts are humble. He saves those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person has many troubles, but the LORD rescues him from all of them. The LORD guards all of his bones. Not one of them is broken. The LORD protects the souls of his servants. All who take refuge in him will never be condemned. Psalm 34:15, 17-20, 22
I've told you this so that my peace will be with you. In the world you'll have trouble. But cheer up! I have overcome the world. John 16:33
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountains topple into the depths of the sea. Water roars and foams, and mountains shake at the surging waves. There is a river whose streams bring joy to the city of God, the holy place where the Most High lives. God is in that city. It cannot fall. God will help it at the break of dawn. Nations are in turmoil, and kingdoms topple. The earth melts at the sound of God's voice. The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Come, see the works of the LORD, the devastation he has brought to the earth. He puts an end to wars all over the earth. He breaks an archer's bow. He cuts spears in two. He burns chariots. Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the nations. I rule the earth. The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Psalm 46
The LORD is my light and my salvation. Who is there to fear? The LORD is my life's fortress. Who is there to be afraid of? I have asked one thing from the LORD. This I will seek: to remain in the LORD's house all the days of my life in order to gaze at the LORD's beauty and to search for an answer in his temple. Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud. Have pity on me, and answer me. +When you said, "Seek my face," my heart said to you, "O LORD, I will seek your face." Do not hide your face from me. Do not angrily turn me away. You have been my help. Do not leave me! Do not abandon me, O God, my savior! Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will take care of me. Psalm 27:1, 4, 7-10


When Tempted:
Don't allow us to be tempted. Instead, rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:13
We need to hold on to our declaration of faith: We have a superior chief priest who has gone through the heavens. That person is Jesus, the Son of God. We have a chief priest who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses. He was tempted in every way that we are, but he didn't sin. So we can go confidently to the throne of God's kindness to receive mercy and find kindness, which will help us at the right time. Hebrews 4:14-16
God can guard you so that you don't fall and so that you can be full of joy as you stand in his glorious presence without fault. Jude 24
So place yourselves under God's authority. Resist the devil, and he will run away from you. James 4:7
Blessed are those who endure when they are tested. When they pass the test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. When someone is tempted, he shouldn't say that God is tempting him. God can't be tempted by evil, and God doesn't tempt anyone. Everyone is tempted by his own desires as they lure him away and trap him. Then desire becomes pregnant and gives birth to sin. When sin grows up, it gives birth to death. James 1:12-15
There isn't any temptation that you have experienced which is unusual for humans. God, who faithfully keeps his promises, will not allow you to be tempted beyond your power to resist. But when you are tempted, he will also give you the ability to endure the temptation as your way of escape. 1 Corinthians 10:13
My son, pay attention to my words. Treasure my commands that are within you. Obey my commands so that you may live. Follow my teachings just as you protect the pupil of your eye. Tie them on your fingers. Write them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, "You are my sister." Give the name "my relative" to understanding in order to guard yourself from an adulterous woman, from a loose woman with her smooth talk. Proverbs 7:1-5


When Lonely:
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end. Psalm 23
Then you will call, and the LORD will answer. You will cry for help, and he will say, "Here I am!" Isaiah 58:9
And remember that I am always with you until the end of time. Matthew 28:20


When Fearful:
The LORD is my light and my salvation. Who is there to fear? The LORD is my life's fortress. Who is there to be afraid of? Evildoers closed in on me to tear me to pieces. My opponents and enemies stumbled and fell. Even though an army sets up camp against me, my heart will not be afraid. Even though a war breaks out against me, I will still have confidence in the LORD. Psalm 27:1-3
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountains topple into the depths of the sea. Psalm 46:1-2
Whoever lives under the shelter of the Most High will remain in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, "You are my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust." He is the one who will rescue you from hunters' traps and from deadly plagues. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge. His truth is your shield and armor. You do not need to fear terrors of the night, arrows that fly during the day, plagues that roam the dark, epidemics that strike at noon. They will not come near you, even though a thousand may fall dead beside you or ten thousand at your right side. You only have to look with your eyes to see the punishment of wicked people. You, O LORD, are my refuge! You have made the Most High your home. No harm will come to you. No sickness will come near your house. He will put his angels in charge of you to protect you in all your ways. They will carry you in their hands so that you never hit your foot against a rock. You will step on lions and cobras. You will trample young lions and snakes. Because you love me, I will rescue you. I will protect you because you know my name. When you call to me, I will answer you. I will be with you when you are in trouble. I will save you and honor you. I will satisfy you with a long life. I will show you how I will save you. Psalm 91
I look up toward the mountains. Where can I find help? My help comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let you fall. Your guardian will not fall asleep. Indeed, the Guardian of Israel never rests or sleeps. The LORD is your guardian. The LORD is the shade over your right hand. The sun will not beat down on you during the day, nor will the moon at night. The LORD guards you from every evil. He guards your life. The LORD guards you as you come and go, now and forever. Psalm 121
Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the destruction of wicked people when it comes. The LORD will be your confidence. He will keep your foot from getting caught. Proverbs 3:25-26
I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand and say to you, "Don't be afraid; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
The LORD created Jacob and formed Israel. Now, this is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid, because I have reclaimed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through the sea, I am with you. When you go through rivers, they will not sweep you away. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned, and the flames will not harm you. I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Egypt is the ransom I exchanged for you. Sudan and Seba are the price I paid for you. Since you are precious to me, you are honored and I love you. I will exchange others for you. Nations will be the price I pay for your life. Do not be afraid, because I am with you. I will bring your descendants from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, "Give them up," and to the south, "Do not keep them." Bring my sons from far away and my daughters from the ends of the earth. Bring everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made. Bring the people who are blind but still have eyes, the people who are deaf but still have ears. All nations have gathered together, and people have assembled. Who among them could have revealed this? Who among them could have foretold this to us? They should bring their witnesses to prove that they were right. Let the people hear them. Then they will say that it is true. "You are my witnesses," declares the LORD. "I have chosen you as my servant so that you can know and believe in me and understand that I am the one who did this. No god was formed before me, and there will be none after me. I alone am the LORD, and there is no savior except me. I have revealed it to you, I have saved you, and I have announced it to you. There was no foreign god among you. You are my witnesses that I am God," declares the LORD. Isaiah 43:1-12
I'm leaving you peace. I'm giving you my peace. I don't give you the kind of peace that the world gives. So don't be troubled or cowardly. John 14:27
God didn't give us a cowardly spirit but a spirit of power, love, and good judgment. 2 Timothy 1:7
The Lord's eyes are on those who do what he approves. His ears hear their prayer. The Lord confronts those who do evil. Who will harm you if you are devoted to doing what is good? But even if you suffer for doing what God approves, you are blessed. Don't be afraid of those who want to harm you. Don't get upset. 1 Peter 3:12-14

Shalom!!
uncle ray

Hi Guys, with the exams going on & coming, I pray to God to give everyone of you the Wisdom, Strength, Good Health & Focus in preparing for your exams. The followings are God's promises to us. Should you face any situation during this period of time, rest assured that God is always there for you:



Promises in times of Fear:
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; Psalm 91:11
10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7


Promises to give Hope:
11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:11
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[j] who[k] have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1Corinthians 13:4-7
16May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17


Promises of Forgiveness:
7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Psalm 51: 7-9
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:11-12
14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15
13For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14in whom we have redemption,[e] the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14
13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13
9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9


Promises of Joy:
Don’t be sad because the joy you have in the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10b
In him our hearts find joy. In his holy name we trust. Psalm 33:21
Righteous people will find joy in the Lord and take refuge in him. Everyone whose motives are decent will be able to brag. Psalm 64:10
Come, let’s sing joyfully to the Lord. Let’s shout happily to the rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1
Let them bring songs of thanksgiving as their sacrifice. Let them tell in joyful songs what he has done. Psalm 107:22
Your written instructions are mine forever. They are the joy of my heart. Psalm 119:111
May God, the source of hope, fill you with joy and peace through your faith in him. Then you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13


Promises of Love:
The Lord appeared to me in a faraway place and said, “I love you with an everlasting love. So I will continue to show you my kindness.” Jeremiah 31:3
God loved the world this way: He gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not die but have eternal life. John 3:16
I loved you the same way the Father has loved me. So live in my love. John 15:9
Christ died for us while we were still sinners. This demonstrates God’s love for us. Romans 5:8
Nothing can ever separate us from God’s love which Christ Jesus our Lord shows us. We can’t be separated by death or life, by angels or rulers, by anything in the present or anything in the future, by forces or powers in the world below or anything else in creation. Romans 8:33b-39
God has shown us his love by sending his only Son into the world so that we could have life through him. 1 John 4:9.
We have known and believed that God loves us. God is love. Those who live in God’s love live in God, and God lives in them. 1 John 4:16


Promises of Peace:
I fall asleep in peace the moment I lie down because you alone, O Lord, enable me to live securely. Psalm 4:8
The Lord will give power to his people. The Lord will bless his people with peace. Psalm 29:11
Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the Nations. I rule the Earth. Psalm 46:10
With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust you. Isaiah 26:3
I’m leaving you peace. I’m giving you my peace. I don’t give you the kind of peace that the world gives. So don’t be troubled or cowardly. John 14:27
Also, let Christ’s peace control you. God has called you into this peace by bringing you into one body. Be thankful. Colossians 3:!5
Try to live peacefully with everyone, and try to live holy lives, because if you don’t you will not see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14
People who want to live a full life and enjoy good days must keep their tongues from saying evil things… they must turn away from evil and do good. They must seek peace and pursue it. 1 Peter 3:10-11


Promises of Salvation:
A child will be born for us. A son will be given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. He will me named: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Indeed, the Son of Man has come to seek and to save people who are lost. Luke 19:10
God loved the world in this way: He gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not die but have eternal life. John 3:16
Don’t be troubled. Believe in God, and believe in me. My Father’s house has many rooms. If that were not true, would I have told you that I’m going to prepare a place for you? If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again. Then I will bring you into my presence so that you will be where I am. John 14:1-3
Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you and your family will be saved. Acts 16:31
The reward for sin is death, but the gift that God freely gives is everlasting life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
God saved you through faith as an act of kindness. You had nothing to do with it. Being saved is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8


When Anxious or Impatient:
Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Brothers and sisters, be patient until the Lord comes again. See how farmers wait for their precious crops to grow. They wait patiently for fall and spring rains. You, too, must be patient. Don't give up hope. The Lord will soon be here. Brothers and sisters, follow the example of the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. They were patient when they suffered unjustly. We consider those who endure to be blessed. You have heard about Job's endurance. You saw that the Lord ended Job's suffering because the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:7-8, 10-11
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "So I tell you to stop worrying about what you will eat or wear. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothes. "Can any of you add an hour to your life by worrying? If you can't do a small thing like that, why worry about other things? "Don't concern yourself about what you will eat or drink, and quit worrying about these things. Rather, be concerned about his kingdom. Then these things will be provided for you. Luke 12:22-23, 25-26, 29, 31
We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God—those whom he has called according to his plan. Romans 8:2
Trust the LORD, and do good things. Live in the land, and practice being faithful. Be happy with the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Entrust your ways to the LORD. Trust him, and he will act on your behalf. He will make your righteousness shine like a light, your just cause like the noonday sun. Surrender yourself to the LORD, and wait patiently for him. Psalm 37:3-7a


When Discouraged:
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When may I come to see God's face? My tears are my food day and night. People ask me all day long, "Where is your God?" I will remember these things as I pour out my soul: how I used to walk with the crowd and lead it in a procession to God's house. I sang songs of joy and thanksgiving while crowds of people celebrated a festival. Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God. My soul is discouraged. That is why I will remember you in the land of Jordan, on the peaks of Hermon, on Mount Mizar. One deep sea calls to another at the roar of your waterspouts. All the whitecaps on your waves have swept over me. The LORD commands his mercy during the day, and at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life. I will ask God, my rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I walk around in mourning while the enemy oppresses me?" With a shattering blow to my bones, my enemies taunt me. They ask me all day long, "Where is your God?" Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God. Psalm 42
Dear friends, even though we say these things, we are still convinced that better things are in store for you and that they will save you. God is fair. He won't forget what you've done or the love you've shown for him. You helped his holy people, and you continue to help them. Hebrews 6:9-10
God our Father loved us and by his kindness gave us everlasting encouragement and good hope. Together with our Lord Jesus Christ, may he encourage and strengthen you to do and say everything that is good. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
What can we say about all of this? If God is for us, who can be against us? God didn't spare his own Son but handed him over to death for all of us. So he will also give us everything along with him. Who will accuse those whom God has chosen? God has approved of them. Who will condemn them? Christ has died, and more importantly, he was brought back to life. Christ has the highest position in heaven. Christ also intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love Christ has for us? Can trouble, distress, persecution, hunger, nakedness, danger, or violent death separate us from his love? As Scripture says: "We are being killed all day long because of you. We are thought of as sheep to be slaughtered." The one who loves us gives us an overwhelming victory in all these difficulties. I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love which Christ Jesus our Lord shows us. We can't be separated by death or life, by angels or rulers, by anything in the present or anything in the future, by forces or powers in the world above or in the world below, or by anything else in creation. Romans 8:31-39
Turn your burdens over to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will never let the righteous person stumble. Psalm 55:22
I've told you this so that my peace will be with you. In the world you'll have trouble. But cheer up! I have overcome the world. John 16:33


When Sick or Suffering:
O LORD my God, I cried out to you for help, and you healed me. Psalm 30:2
If you are sick, call for the church leaders. Have them pray for you and anoint you with olive oil in the name of the Lord. (Prayers offered in faith will save those who are sick, and the Lord will cure them.) If you have sinned, you will be forgiven. So admit your sins to each other, and pray for each other so that you will be healed. Prayers offered by those who have God's approval are effective. James 5:14-16
When Jesus went to Peter's house, he saw Peter's mother-in-law in bed with a fever. Jesus touched her hand, and the fever went away. So she got up and prepared a meal for him. In the evening the people brought him many who were possessed by demons. He forced the +evil=spirits out of people with a command and cured everyone who was sick. So what the prophet Isaiah had said came true: "He took away our weaknesses and removed our diseases." Matthew 8:14-17
The LORD will support him on his sickbed. You will restore this person to health when he is ill. Psalm 41:3
Praise the LORD, my soul! Praise his holy name, all that is within me. Praise the LORD, my soul, and never forget all the good he has done: He is the one who forgives all your sins, the one who heals all your diseases, the one who rescues your life from the pit, the one who crowns you with mercy and compassion, the one who fills your life with blessings so that you become young again like an eagle. Psalm 103:1-5
But he told me: "My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak." So I will brag even more about my weaknesses in order that Christ's power will live in me. Therefore, I accept weakness, mistreatment, hardship, persecution, and difficulties suffered for Christ. It's clear that when I'm weak, I'm strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
He is the healer of the brokenhearted. He is the one who bandages their wounds. Psalm 147:3
Now that we have God's approval by faith, we have peace with God because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done. Through Christ we can approach God and stand in his favor. So we brag because of our confidence that we will receive glory from God. But that's not all. We also brag when we are suffering. We know that suffering creates endurance, endurance creates character, and character creates confidence. We're not ashamed to have this confidence, because God's love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:1-5
Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed. Rescue me, and I will be rescued. You are the one I praise. Jeremiah 17:14

When Facing Difficult Times:
Call on me in times of trouble. I will rescue you, and you will honor me. Psalm 50:15
Have pity on me, O God. Have pity on me, because my soul takes refuge in you. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until destructive storms pass by. I call to God Most High, to the God who does everything for me. He sends his help from heaven and saves me. He disgraces the one who is harassing me. God sends his mercy and his truth! Psalm 57:1-3
My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you are tested in different ways. You know that such testing of your faith produces endurance. Endure until your testing is over. Then you will be mature and complete, and you won't need anything. James 1:2-4
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end. Psalm 23
Listen to my cry for help, O God. Pay attention to my prayer. From the ends of the earth, I call to you when I begin to lose heart. Lead me to the rock that is high above me. You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy. I would like to be a guest in your tent forever and to take refuge under the protection of your wings. Psalm 61:1-4
Because Jesus experienced temptation when he suffered, he is able to help others when they are tempted. Hebrews 2:18
Brothers and sisters, we don't want you to be ignorant about the suffering we experienced in the province of Asia. It was so extreme that it was beyond our ability to endure. We even wondered if we could go on living. In fact, we still feel as if we're under a death sentence. But we suffered so that we would stop trusting ourselves and learn to trust God, who brings the dead back to life. He has rescued us from a terrible death, and he will rescue us in the future. 2 Corinthians 1:8-10
Trust him at all times, you people. Pour out your hearts in his presence. God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8
The LORD is good. He is a fortress in the day of trouble. He knows those who seek shelter in him. Nahum 1:7
The Lord will rescue me from all harm and will take me safely to his heavenly kingdom. Glory belongs to him forever! Amen. 2 Timothy 4:18
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When may I come to see God's face? My tears are my food day and night. People ask me all day long, "Where is your God?" Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God. Psalm 42:1-3, 5
The LORD's eyes are on righteous people. His ears hear their cry for help. Righteous peoplecry out. The LORD hears and rescues them from all their troubles. The LORD is near to those whose hearts are humble. He saves those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person has many troubles, but the LORD rescues him from all of them. The LORD guards all of his bones. Not one of them is broken. The LORD protects the souls of his servants. All who take refuge in him will never be condemned. Psalm 34:15, 17-20, 22
I've told you this so that my peace will be with you. In the world you'll have trouble. But cheer up! I have overcome the world. John 16:33
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountains topple into the depths of the sea. Water roars and foams, and mountains shake at the surging waves. There is a river whose streams bring joy to the city of God, the holy place where the Most High lives. God is in that city. It cannot fall. God will help it at the break of dawn. Nations are in turmoil, and kingdoms topple. The earth melts at the sound of God's voice. The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Come, see the works of the LORD, the devastation he has brought to the earth. He puts an end to wars all over the earth. He breaks an archer's bow. He cuts spears in two. He burns chariots. Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the nations. I rule the earth. The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Psalm 46
The LORD is my light and my salvation. Who is there to fear? The LORD is my life's fortress. Who is there to be afraid of? I have asked one thing from the LORD. This I will seek: to remain in the LORD's house all the days of my life in order to gaze at the LORD's beauty and to search for an answer in his temple. Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud. Have pity on me, and answer me. +When you said, "Seek my face," my heart said to you, "O LORD, I will seek your face." Do not hide your face from me. Do not angrily turn me away. You have been my help. Do not leave me! Do not abandon me, O God, my savior! Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will take care of me. Psalm 27:1, 4, 7-10


When Tempted:
Don't allow us to be tempted. Instead, rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:13
We need to hold on to our declaration of faith: We have a superior chief priest who has gone through the heavens. That person is Jesus, the Son of God. We have a chief priest who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses. He was tempted in every way that we are, but he didn't sin. So we can go confidently to the throne of God's kindness to receive mercy and find kindness, which will help us at the right time. Hebrews 4:14-16
God can guard you so that you don't fall and so that you can be full of joy as you stand in his glorious presence without fault. Jude 24
So place yourselves under God's authority. Resist the devil, and he will run away from you. James 4:7
Blessed are those who endure when they are tested. When they pass the test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. When someone is tempted, he shouldn't say that God is tempting him. God can't be tempted by evil, and God doesn't tempt anyone. Everyone is tempted by his own desires as they lure him away and trap him. Then desire becomes pregnant and gives birth to sin. When sin grows up, it gives birth to death. James 1:12-15
There isn't any temptation that you have experienced which is unusual for humans. God, who faithfully keeps his promises, will not allow you to be tempted beyond your power to resist. But when you are tempted, he will also give you the ability to endure the temptation as your way of escape. 1 Corinthians 10:13
My son, pay attention to my words. Treasure my commands that are within you. Obey my commands so that you may live. Follow my teachings just as you protect the pupil of your eye. Tie them on your fingers. Write them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, "You are my sister." Give the name "my relative" to understanding in order to guard yourself from an adulterous woman, from a loose woman with her smooth talk. Proverbs 7:1-5


When Lonely:
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end. Psalm 23
Then you will call, and the LORD will answer. You will cry for help, and he will say, "Here I am!" Isaiah 58:9
And remember that I am always with you until the end of time. Matthew 28:20


When Fearful:
The LORD is my light and my salvation. Who is there to fear? The LORD is my life's fortress. Who is there to be afraid of? Evildoers closed in on me to tear me to pieces. My opponents and enemies stumbled and fell. Even though an army sets up camp against me, my heart will not be afraid. Even though a war breaks out against me, I will still have confidence in the LORD. Psalm 27:1-3
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountains topple into the depths of the sea. Psalm 46:1-2
Whoever lives under the shelter of the Most High will remain in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, "You are my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust." He is the one who will rescue you from hunters' traps and from deadly plagues. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge. His truth is your shield and armor. You do not need to fear terrors of the night, arrows that fly during the day, plagues that roam the dark, epidemics that strike at noon. They will not come near you, even though a thousand may fall dead beside you or ten thousand at your right side. You only have to look with your eyes to see the punishment of wicked people. You, O LORD, are my refuge! You have made the Most High your home. No harm will come to you. No sickness will come near your house. He will put his angels in charge of you to protect you in all your ways. They will carry you in their hands so that you never hit your foot against a rock. You will step on lions and cobras. You will trample young lions and snakes. Because you love me, I will rescue you. I will protect you because you know my name. When you call to me, I will answer you. I will be with you when you are in trouble. I will save you and honor you. I will satisfy you with a long life. I will show you how I will save you. Psalm 91
I look up toward the mountains. Where can I find help? My help comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let you fall. Your guardian will not fall asleep. Indeed, the Guardian of Israel never rests or sleeps. The LORD is your guardian. The LORD is the shade over your right hand. The sun will not beat down on you during the day, nor will the moon at night. The LORD guards you from every evil. He guards your life. The LORD guards you as you come and go, now and forever. Psalm 121
Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the destruction of wicked people when it comes. The LORD will be your confidence. He will keep your foot from getting caught. Proverbs 3:25-26
I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand and say to you, "Don't be afraid; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
The LORD created Jacob and formed Israel. Now, this is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid, because I have reclaimed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through the sea, I am with you. When you go through rivers, they will not sweep you away. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned, and the flames will not harm you. I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Egypt is the ransom I exchanged for you. Sudan and Seba are the price I paid for you. Since you are precious to me, you are honored and I love you. I will exchange others for you. Nations will be the price I pay for your life. Do not be afraid, because I am with you. I will bring your descendants from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, "Give them up," and to the south, "Do not keep them." Bring my sons from far away and my daughters from the ends of the earth. Bring everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made. Bring the people who are blind but still have eyes, the people who are deaf but still have ears. All nations have gathered together, and people have assembled. Who among them could have revealed this? Who among them could have foretold this to us? They should bring their witnesses to prove that they were right. Let the people hear them. Then they will say that it is true. "You are my witnesses," declares the LORD. "I have chosen you as my servant so that you can know and believe in me and understand that I am the one who did this. No god was formed before me, and there will be none after me. I alone am the LORD, and there is no savior except me. I have revealed it to you, I have saved you, and I have announced it to you. There was no foreign god among you. You are my witnesses that I am God," declares the LORD. Isaiah 43:1-12
I'm leaving you peace. I'm giving you my peace. I don't give you the kind of peace that the world gives. So don't be troubled or cowardly. John 14:27
God didn't give us a cowardly spirit but a spirit of power, love, and good judgment. 2 Timothy 1:7
The Lord's eyes are on those who do what he approves. His ears hear their prayer. The Lord confronts those who do evil. Who will harm you if you are devoted to doing what is good? But even if you suffer for doing what God approves, you are blessed. Don't be afraid of those who want to harm you. Don't get upset. 1 Peter 3:12-14

Shalom!!
uncle ray