God speaks today Friday | November 22, 2024

And the messenger answered and said, Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God is taken. (1 Samuel 4:17)
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. (Matthew 6:7)
Dr. Roberto Miranda

Empty rites

We often follow religious routines without actively seeking God's presence. The Hebrews believed that having the ark of the covenant would bring victory, but they suffered defeat because they lacked spiritual discernment. Similarly, if we believe that empty rituals and programs will bring blessings, we are wrong. We need to actively participate with our hearts and passion to bring the power of God into our meetings. God does not bless dead religion and we need a fresh visitation of His power. Read more...


Cross Reference

Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few. (Ecclesiastes 5:2)
For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear thou God. (Ecclesiastes 5:7)
And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made. (1 Kings 18:26)
And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. (Matthew 26:44)

Comments:

Carlos A. Borja Flores: Devotional to be meditated deeply. As Dr. Roberto Miranda says, the presence of God is manifested in a transformed heart, but not in religious rites or physical objects; that is, religious routines. And he adds, what makes the difference is the heart that unites with the action and actualizes it and converts it into the power of God. May the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us by grace, make us meditate deeply on these truths.
Thank you for sharing your reflections, Carlos A. Borja Flores. It is true that Dr. Roberto Miranda reminds us of the importance of the real presence of God in our lives, beyond simple religious rites. As you mention, the transformation of the heart and the true connection with God are fundamental. May the Holy Spirit guide us and help us live in that authentic communion with our Creator. Blessings on your spiritual journey!
Enrique Meneses Muñoz : Thank you my LORD because I can speak openly with you at any time of distress, and also to thank you and worship you.
How beautiful it is to be able to express our gratitude and worship to God at all times, Enrique Meneses Muñoz. As Dr. Roberto Miranda's devotional mentions, it is important to seek the real presence of God in our lives and not just stay in empty rituals. May you continue to enjoy that constant communion with the Lord, both in times of need and celebration. May your relationship with God continue to grow stronger every day! God bless you abundantly!
Efigenia Vidal : God is God, He knows the intentions of the heart. The blessing of the believer comes from honesty before His presence, trying to deceive God is a great mistake. Pastor Miranda's devotional quotes well, God does not live in a defined space, He is omniscient and omnipresent. My devotion and respect towards God is what is relevant before the Lord. I know that disobedience to God brings me consequences, I must constantly try to obey His word day by day, although I am not perfect, I try as much as possible to please Him, because I cannot deceive Him. Thank you Pastor Miranda for the profound subject highlighted today in the devotional. God bless you.
What beautiful words, Efigenia Vidal. It is true that sincerity and honesty in the presence of God are fundamental in our relationship with Him. As you mention, God knows our intentions and we cannot deceive Him. Your commitment to obey His Word and please Him, despite our imperfections, is an act of love and reverence toward Him. May you continue to grow in that devotion and respect toward God, always seeking to do His will. May God strengthen you on that path of faith and obedience! Blessings on your spiritual journey, Efigenia!
Betty Casanova: God is a GOD who does not lie or repent, he is, and his children must provoke his presence, seek him in authenticity as we are, he knows us from the embryo, then we have to try to be authentic and respond to his forgiveness and continue a path with a clean heart and we will see his wonders and blessings poured out upon us and on all practice what David did, Patiently waited for the Lord and He heard my cry, in the transition of being patient, there we test our hearts, trust and Faith that he works in favor of his children.
What a beautiful message, Betty Casanova. It is true that God is faithful and true, and knows us intimately. Seeking His presence with authenticity and sincerity, responding to His forgiveness and walking with a clean heart, brings us closer to experiencing His wonders and blessings in our lives. Patience and trust in God working on behalf of His children are key aspects of our relationship with Him. May you continue to cultivate that authenticity and faith, waiting on the Lord and trusting in His work in your life. May His peace and love always be with you, Betty! God bless you abundantly!
Ruth Vives.: The gospel in following the biblical doctrines and God implies having dedication, discipline and obedience as they have been created for the good and salvation of humanity. The human being should not try to change or model these according to his preference or lifestyle. It is the human being who must follow and honor what they establish. They are created by the work of divine inspiration. God bless you. Amen.
What a beautiful message, Ruth Vives. It is true that following biblical doctrines and the will of God requires dedication, discipline and obedience, recognizing that they have been established for our good and salvation. It is important to honor and follow what the Word of God teaches us, without trying to change it to adapt it to our own desires. May you remain firm in your faith and in your commitment to follow the ways of the Lord with fidelity and reverence. May God continue to guide and bless you on your spiritual journey, Ruth! Amen!
Francisco Diaz S.: Repetitive and memorized rations are not sincere, they are rituals prepared to excite the believer, only sincere, humble prayer with great faith reaches the ears of the Lord. - With God we speak with the soul and the spirit.
What a beautiful reflection, Francisco Díaz S. It is true that sincere, humble, and faith-filled prayer is what truly reaches the heart of God. Speaking to God from the depths of our soul and spirit allows us to establish an intimate connection with Him. As the verse you share mentions, it is important to avoid meaningless repetitions and seek genuine communication with our Lord. May you continue to cultivate that authentic relationship with God through your sincere and faith-filled prayers. May His presence and love always be with you, Francisco! God bless you abundantly!
Alba Fuentes : Excellent reflection, God bless your lives beloved brothers 🤗❤️🙏
What a lovely message, Alba Fuentes! We appreciate your words and good wishes. May God's blessing and love continue to abound in your life as well. May His peace and grace always be with you! 🙏❤️ God bless you richly, Alba!