Evening Prayer for Thursday, September 12, 2024: "Comfort and Peace"

Lord Jesus,

As this day comes to a close, we seek Your comfort and peace. We thank You for Your guidance and for the strength You have provided. We ask that You calm our hearts and minds as we prepare for rest.

Help us to cast aside any worries or fears and to find solace in Your presence. May Your love envelop us and bring us a sense of peace that surpasses all understanding. We entrust our dreams and our sleep to You, knowing You will guard us through the night.

Bless us with a peaceful night’s rest and prepare us for a new day filled with Your grace.

In Your name, we pray,
Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse - Thursday, September 12, 2024: "Help Us Reach More"

Dear Beloved,

I am reaching out today to ask for your support in helping us continue our mission. Our ministry is dedicated to providing the Word of God to everyone, free of charge. We believe in offering our resources without a financial barrier to all who need them.

However, running this ministry involves costs. Your donations help us cover these expenses and ensure that our content remains accessible to all. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference.

Please use the “Donate” button on our website to make your contribution. Your support is vital in helping us reach more people and continue our work.

Thank you for your ongoing support and generosity.

Blessings,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse - Thursday, September 12, 2024: "The Power of the Word"

Dear Beloved in Christ,

Reflecting on the message from Sunday, I am struck by the transformative power of God’s Word. Just as Jesus relied on Scripture during His temptation, we too must turn to God’s Word for guidance, strength, and renewal. The Bible is not just a book but the living and active Word of God that speaks directly into our lives.

As we continue through this week, let us make it a priority to immerse ourselves in Scripture. It is through the Word that we are equipped to face challenges, find comfort, and grow in our relationship with God. Each passage we read, each verse we memorize, becomes a part of our spiritual arsenal, empowering us to live out our faith with vigor and clarity.

I encourage you to set aside time each day to read and meditate on God’s Word. Allow it to speak to you, to challenge you, and to inspire you. Let the power of Scripture transform your life and deepen your walk with the Lord.

May the Word of God be a source of strength and inspiration for you.

In His grace,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Morning Prayer for Thursday, September 12, 2024

Loving Father, we thank You for the breath of life and the chance to begin anew this day. As we seek Your presence, we ask that You guide our steps and fill our hearts with Your wisdom. May Your Word be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, directing us in all that we do. Help us to depend on You for our daily needs, both physical and spiritual. We surrender this day to You, trusting in Your perfect plan. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Bible Study for Thursday, September 12, 2024: "Spiritual Hunger and Fulfillment"

This study delves into the concept of spiritual hunger and how it can only be truly fulfilled through a relationship with God. We will discuss the dangers of seeking fulfillment in worldly things and the importance of cultivating a deep hunger for God’s Word.

Bible Verses to Read:

• Psalm 42:1-2
• Matthew 5:6
• John 4:13-14

Questions for Reflection:

• What are the signs of spiritual hunger in your life?
• How can you cultivate a deeper desire for God's Word?
• What are some ways to ensure that you are seeking fulfillment in God rather than in temporary things?

Evening Prayer for Wednesday, September 11, 2024: "Peaceful Reflection"

Heavenly Father,

As we end this day, we turn to You with hearts full of gratitude and reflection. Thank You for guiding us through each moment and for Your unwavering love. We seek Your peace as we prepare to rest.

Help us to find solace in Your presence and to release any anxiety or stress that may linger. May Your peace fill our hearts and minds, allowing us to rest deeply and awaken refreshed. We trust in Your care and protection throughout the night.

Guide our thoughts towards Your goodness and grace as we close this day in Your peace.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse - Wednesday, September 11, 2024: "Investing in the Ministry"

Dear Friends,

As we journey through this week, I want to share with you how important your financial support is to our ministry. Our goal is to provide free spiritual resources to all, and we are blessed to offer this service without charge.

Running our ministry involves various costs, from website maintenance to outreach efforts. We do not charge for our content, and every donation you make helps us manage these expenses and expand our reach.

Please consider supporting our mission by using the “Donate” button on our website. Your investment in our ministry allows us to continue serving others and spreading the message of God’s love.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

In Christ’s grace,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Mid-Week Message - Jesus and Children

"But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children. And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left ."  Matthew 19:14-15 (NLT)   

First grade.  Lamar Elementary School, Amarillo, Texas.  Each week during "Show and Tell" time, a little girl named Natalie always showed and said the same thing.  She would point to her head and say, "My mama got me this new headband."  I thought it was boring at the time.  Age and maturity has caused me to wonder why that was the only thing she ever had to show.  I also wonder how she felt about it.  Was she embarrassed by never having other things to bring?  What was her home life like?  

What do you remember from your childhood?  It seems that every child has something that sets them apart from the others in some way.  Maybe it was big ears or a big nose. Maybe you lived in a not so enviable neighborhood.  Was it being from a one parent family?  Did you or a sibling have a handicap?  You may have had an alcoholic or drug addicted parent.  Or was it something harder to see?  Emotional sensitivity possibly, or abuse that no one knew about. Whatever it was, I bet you can still get in touch with those feelings even today.  

Jesus was very clear about how He felt about the children.  When the disciples tried to stop the young ones from getting to Jesus, He told them to stop.  I can hear just a touch of a reprimanding tone when I read that passage.  He tells them that, "the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children."  I know what I have always been taught about this.  Children are innocent and have abundant faith.  They don't try to reason around things the way adults do.  I'm sure that type of faith is precious to our Savior.

I want to propose something that may be new to you.  Might there be more reasons?  I'm sure the purity of faith is a huge part of it, but what if there was more?  What if our Lord, knowing us the way that only He can, knew that these little ones were carrying many complicated feelings and fears?  Times today are much different from then but are people really that different?  When I read scripture I see basically the same struggles then as I do now.  So, I believe that children, even then, carried confusion, doubt about their own abilities, feelings about abuse and being accepted, fear of disappointing parents and worries about fitting in the same way they do now. So, is it possible that one of the reasons that Jesus loved for them to come to Him was that He understood all of that and He desired to minister to them in a very special way? I think so because He knows everything about each one of us.

I chose this topic because I wanted to remind each of us what it felt like to be a child.  Wasn't it easy to harken back to those days?  Those memories will always be a part of us.  And in that way, there will always be a part of each of us that remains that small child.  The Bible tells us that we are God's children.  That means that each of us can approach Jesus as the child we are inside.  And we can lay all of those insecurities at His feet knowing that He understands and loves us.  When we are able to go before Him in that manner, we are displaying pure faith.  Faith that says, "Lord, I'm scared.  I'm afraid I'm going to disappoint those around me.  I am sad or angry or confused.  I am hurting because of abuse or addiction and I need You to hold me."  Do you know what will happen when we do that?  Just as He did in verse 15 of Matthew 19, He will lay His hands upon our heads and bless us.  

Maybe I see things in a different way than you do.  That's fine.  You see, what I have learned from my own struggles is that all of those things that make us feel set apart from everyone else serve to drive us to the comforting, healing, saving power of the cross.  Are you experiencing some of those difficulties today?  I will say this to you.  First, cry if you need to and second go talk to Jesus.  He's waiting and He won't allow anyone to get in the way.  He didn't then, and He won't now.  He adores you.  God bless. 

Bible Study for Wednesday, September 11, 2024: "The Wilderness Experience"

In this study, we will explore the spiritual significance of wilderness experiences, both in the life of the Israelites and in Jesus’ journey. We will discuss how these periods of testing and dependence on God shape our faith and draw us closer to Him.

Bible Verses to Read:

• Matthew 4:1-11
• Deuteronomy 8:2-5
• Hosea 2:14-15

Questions for Reflection:

• What can we learn from the wilderness experiences of the Israelites and Jesus?
• How have your own "wilderness" experiences shaped your faith?
• In what ways can you see God’s purpose in the challenges you face?

Morning Prayer for Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Dear Lord, we thank You for the light of this new day. As we begin, we ask that You fill our hearts with peace and our minds with clarity. Help us to focus on Your Word and to draw near to You in all that we do. May our souls be nourished by Your truth, and may we live in a way that honors You. Give us the strength to face any challenges that come our way, knowing that You are our constant provider. We place our trust in You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Evening Prayer for Tuesday, September 10, 2024: "Release and Renewal"

Dear Lord,

As we end this day, we come before You to seek Your peace. We lay down our concerns, our burdens, and any weariness we may feel. Thank You for being our source of strength and comfort.

Help us to release the stresses of the day and to find renewal in Your presence. May Your Spirit soothe our hearts and minds, allowing us to rest peacefully. We trust in Your promise to sustain us and to renew our spirits each night.

Bless our sleep, and awaken us with a heart full of hope and readiness for the day to come.

In Your holy name, we pray,
Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse - Tuesday, September 10, 2024: "Every Gift Counts"

Dear Beloved,

Today, I want to express my gratitude for your support and remind you of the impact your donations have on our ministry. We are dedicated to providing free access to spiritual resources for all who seek them, and your contributions play a crucial role in making this possible.

We do not sell books or charge for subscriptions; everything we offer is available at no cost. However, there are costs associated with running our ministry, and every gift helps us continue our mission.

If you feel led, please use the “Donate” button on our website to make a contribution. Your support helps us extend our reach and bring the Word of God to those who are hungry for it.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Blessings,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse - Tuesday, September 10, 2024: "Trusting in God’s Provision"

Dear Friends,

In our journey of faith, trusting in God’s provision is essential. Our Sunday message highlighted how Jesus, during His time in the wilderness, chose to rely on every word from God rather than physical bread. This divine provision is a cornerstone of our faith, reminding us that God’s care and sustenance are never lacking.

Today, I urge you to reflect on God’s provision in your own life. How has He provided for you, not just in material terms but spiritually and emotionally? Our Lord is faithful, and His promises are sure. As we trust Him for our daily needs, let us also trust Him for our spiritual growth and well-being.

Spend some time today in prayer, thanking God for His provision and asking Him to deepen your trust in His ability to meet all your needs. As we rely on Him, we will find that our faith grows stronger and our hearts more secure.

May God’s provision fill your life with peace and contentment.

Blessings,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Bible Study for Tuesday, September 10, 2024: "Trusting in God's Provision"

This study examines the theme of trusting in God's provision, both in the physical and spiritual realms. By looking at the Israelites’ reliance on manna and Jesus’ trust in the Father during His temptation, we will discuss how to cultivate a deeper trust in God’s provision for our needs.

Bible Verses to Read:

• Exodus 16:11-18
• Philippians 4:19
• Matthew 6:25-34

Questions for Reflection:

• How does the story of manna in the wilderness illustrate God's provision?
• What are some areas in your life where you need to trust God more fully?
• How can you develop a habit of relying on God’s provision in both small and significant ways?

Morning Prayer for Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Almighty God, we praise You for Your faithfulness and goodness. As we wake up to this new day, we ask that You fill our hearts with a hunger for Your Word. May we seek Your face and draw strength from the promises You have given us. Help us to remember that true sustenance comes from You, and that in You, we find all that we need. Guide us through this day, and may our lives reflect Your love and grace to those around us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Evening Prayer for Monday, September 9, 2024: "Gratitude and Reflection"

Lord God,

As the day draws to a close, we reflect on the moments of today with gratitude. We thank You for the opportunities we had to serve and to grow. We acknowledge Your hand in all the good that has transpired.

Help us to release any regrets or worries we may have from today. Grant us a heart of thanksgiving for Your blessings and a spirit of peace as we prepare for the night. May Your love and grace fill our thoughts, and may we find comfort in knowing that You are with us.

Bless our sleep and renew our strength, so we may rise tomorrow ready to follow Your path.

In Christ's name,
Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse - Monday, September 9, 2024: "A Call to Support"

Dear Friends,

As we enter the new week, I am reminded of the incredible impact your support has on our ministry. Our mission is to make the Word of God accessible to everyone, without charge, through our website. We are committed to providing this spiritual resource freely to all who seek it.

While we do not charge for our content or offer paid subscriptions, maintaining and expanding our services involves costs. Your donations are essential to helping us cover these expenses and continue our outreach.

Please consider using the “Donate” button on our website to contribute to our mission. Your generosity enables us to reach more individuals and share the message of God’s love and grace.

Thank you for partnering with us in this important work.

In Christ’s love,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse - Monday, September 9, 2024: "Nourishing Our Souls"

Dear Beloved,

As we step into this new week, I am reminded of the profound truth we explored in Sunday’s message: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." This principle serves as a guiding light, reminding us of the paramount importance of spiritual nourishment in our lives.

Just as our bodies require daily food, our souls need the sustenance that only God’s Word can provide. It is all too easy to become absorbed in the demands of daily life, focusing solely on our physical needs. Yet, we must remember that our spiritual well-being is equally crucial. The scriptures are not just historical texts but living words that give us life and direction.

As we begin this week, I encourage you to prioritize your spiritual nourishment. Set aside time each day to read and meditate on Scripture, allowing God’s truth to fill you and guide you. Let us seek to live not merely on physical sustenance but on the rich and satisfying words that come from our Heavenly Father.

May your week be blessed as you feed on the Bread of Life.

In Christ’s love,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Bible Study for Monday, September 9, 2024: "The Bread of Life"

This study focuses on Jesus as the Bread of Life, the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment. We will explore how this truth is rooted in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, and what it means for us to seek sustenance in Christ alone.

Bible Verses to Read:

• John 6:25-35
• Isaiah 55:1-3
• Psalm 34:8

Questions for Reflection:

• How does Jesus fulfill the role of the Bread of Life in our lives today?
• What are the practical ways we can "feed" on Christ daily?
• How does seeking Jesus as our spiritual nourishment impact our relationship with God?

Morning Prayer for Monday, September 9, 2024

Gracious Lord, we thank You for the dawn of a new day. As we step into this week, we ask for Your wisdom and strength. Help us to prioritize our spiritual needs over our physical desires. May we seek Your presence in all that we do, and may Your Word guide our thoughts and actions. Let us find our satisfaction not in the things of this world, but in the eternal truths that come from You. We place our trust in Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Evening Prayer for Sunday, September 8, 2024: "Peaceful Rest"

Heavenly Father,

As we come to the end of this day, we pause to offer our gratitude for Your constant presence and guidance. Thank You for the lessons learned and the blessings received throughout today. We ask for Your peace to settle over us as we prepare for rest.

Grant us a night of peaceful sleep, free from worry and filled with Your comforting presence. May Your Spirit guard our hearts and minds, renewing our strength for the days ahead. Help us to release any burdens we carry and find solace in Your loving embrace.

We entrust this night to You, confident that You will watch over us and keep us safe. May our rest be restorative, and our hearts be at ease in Your care.

In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse - Sunday, September 8, 2024: "Supporting the Mission"

Dear Beloved,

As we reflect on the message from today, I want to extend a heartfelt invitation for you to support our ministry. Our mission is to provide free access to the Word of God through messages, prayers, and Bible studies, and we rely on the generosity of our supporters to continue this vital work.

We do not charge for subscriptions or sell books. Everything we offer is freely available to those who seek spiritual nourishment. However, the costs of maintaining and expanding our ministry are significant. Every donation helps us reach more people with the message of hope and salvation.

If you feel led to support our work, please use the “Donate” button on our website. Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference in enabling us to continue providing this free content.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of our ministry’s journey.

Blessings,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone

In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a profound moment in Jesus' life where He is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After forty days and nights of fasting, Jesus is hungry, and Satan seizes this opportunity to tempt Him, urging Him to turn stones into bread to satisfy His physical hunger. Yet, Jesus responds not with human reasoning but with the eternal truth of Scripture, declaring, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” This response is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, specifically in Deuteronomy 8:3, where Moses reminds the Israelites of God’s provision during their time in the wilderness. God allowed them to experience hunger so that they might learn a vital lesson: life’s true sustenance comes not from physical bread, but from every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord. As we reflect on these passages today, we are invited to consider what it means to rely on God not just for our physical needs but, more importantly, for the spiritual nourishment that only He can provide.

The experience of hunger is a powerful and universal aspect of human life. In the wilderness, both the Israelites and Jesus Himself faced intense physical hunger—an undeniable reminder of our dependence on daily sustenance. For the Israelites, their journey through the desert was marked by a tangible reliance on God's provision. When they were in need, God provided manna from heaven, a miraculous food unknown to them or their ancestors. This manna was not just physical nourishment but also a divine teaching tool, designed to shift their focus from earthly needs to a deeper spiritual truth. 

Similarly, Jesus' hunger after forty days of fasting could have easily led Him to prioritize His physical needs. However, when tempted by Satan to turn stones into bread, Jesus refused to be swayed. He recognized that while physical bread is essential for sustaining the body, it is not the ultimate source of life. Jesus understood that true life comes from every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. This moment in the wilderness highlights a critical spiritual principle: while our physical needs are real and pressing, they must never overshadow our greater need for spiritual sustenance. In both the Old and New Testaments, we see that God's Word is the ultimate source of life, guiding us, sustaining us, and drawing us closer to Him.

In both the wilderness experiences of the Israelites and Jesus, we are confronted with the truth that life extends far beyond the physical realm. The "bread" in these narratives symbolizes more than just food; it represents all the material and temporal things we often seek to sustain ourselves. Yet, the lesson God teaches us through these scriptures is that true life—life in its fullest, most meaningful sense—is found in spiritual nourishment, which comes only from His Word.

The power of God's Word lies in its ability to transcend the physical and address the deepest needs of the human soul. While physical bread feeds the body, it is the Word of God that feeds the spirit, providing wisdom, guidance, comfort, and strength. When Jesus responds to Satan by quoting Scripture, He is not just rejecting the temptation to satisfy His immediate hunger; He is affirming the supremacy of spiritual sustenance over physical needs. This teaches us that God's Word is not just an additional resource but the very foundation of our lives.

In our modern world, we are constantly bombarded with messages that equate success, happiness, and fulfillment with material wealth, possessions, and physical comfort—our "bread." However, these things, while not inherently wrong, can never fully satisfy the deeper longings of our hearts. The application of this truth in our lives is clear: we must prioritize our spiritual nourishment by immersing ourselves in the Word of God. It is through His Word that we gain the strength to face life's challenges, the wisdom to navigate its complexities, and the peace that transcends understanding. In recognizing the power of God's Word, we are reminded that true fulfillment comes not from what we possess, but from the relationship we cultivate with our Creator, who speaks to us through His eternal Word.

As we delve deeper into the lessons from both the Israelites' journey and Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, a central theme emerges: the necessity of trusting in God's provision. The Israelites were led into a barren desert where their resources were insufficient to sustain them. In this place of vulnerability, God provided manna from heaven—a daily reminder of His care and provision. This divine provision was not just about meeting their immediate physical needs but was a call to trust in God's ability to provide for all aspects of their lives, both physical and spiritual.

Similarly, Jesus' refusal to turn stones into bread was an act of profound trust in God's provision. Despite His intense hunger, Jesus chose to rely on the Father rather than take matters into His own hands. He recognized that true sustenance comes not from satisfying immediate physical cravings, but from depending on God's timing and His provision. This act of faith demonstrated that Jesus was committed to fulfilling His mission according to God's plan, not by yielding to the temptations of the moment.

In our lives today, we often face situations where our resources seem insufficient, and the temptation to rely on our own strength is strong. Yet, these moments are opportunities for us to place our trust in God's provision. Just as God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness and sustained Jesus during His time of testing, He promises to meet our needs as well. However, this provision goes beyond the material; it encompasses the spiritual sustenance that only God can provide.

Trusting in God’s provision means recognizing that His ways are higher than ours and that He knows what we need before we even ask. It requires us to shift our focus from self-reliance to God-reliance, understanding that He is the source of all we need—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Furthermore, this trust invites us to embrace Jesus as the Bread of Life, the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment. In John 6:35, Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again." This profound statement reminds us that in Christ, we find the fulfillment that the world cannot offer. As we trust in God's provision, we are assured that He will not only meet our needs but will also fill us with a deeper sense of purpose and peace, anchored in His eternal Word.

As we reflect on the profound truths found in Matthew 4:4 and Deuteronomy 8:3, we are reminded that our lives are sustained by much more than mere physical nourishment. While the world may tempt us to focus on satisfying our immediate, tangible needs, Scripture calls us to look beyond the temporal and seek sustenance from the eternal Word of God. The Israelites learned this in the wilderness as they depended daily on the manna provided by God—a physical symbol of the spiritual truth that we live not by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Jesus, too, demonstrated this truth when He chose spiritual obedience over physical gratification, trusting fully in God's provision.

Now, the question is, how will we respond to these truths in our own lives? The call to action is clear: We must prioritize the Word of God as our primary source of sustenance. This means making a conscious decision each day to seek spiritual nourishment before anything else. Just as our bodies require daily food, our spirits need daily feeding through prayer, meditation, and engagement with Scripture.

I challenge you, starting today, to commit to this daily pursuit of spiritual nourishment. Carve out time each morning to immerse yourself in God's Word before attending to the demands of the day. Let the truths of Scripture shape your thoughts, guide your decisions, and sustain you through the challenges you face. Furthermore, I encourage you to reflect on where you may have placed undue emphasis on "bread"—the material aspects of life—and ask God to help you shift your focus toward the spiritual.

In doing so, you will find that your life takes on a new depth of meaning and purpose. You will experience a satisfaction that no material possession or worldly success can offer because you are feeding on the Bread of Life, the Word of God, which is alive and powerful, sharper than any double-edged sword. Let this be your daily bread, sustaining you, guiding you, and drawing you ever closer to the One who created you and loves you beyond measure. Trust in His provision, and you will discover that, indeed, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."

Bible Study for Sunday, September 8, 2024: "Living by Every Word"

In this study, we will explore the importance of living by every word that comes from the mouth of God, as emphasized in Matthew 4:4 and Deuteronomy 8:3. We will examine how Jesus' response to temptation in the wilderness serves as a model for us to prioritize spiritual nourishment over physical desires.

Bible Verses to Read:

• Matthew 4:1-4
• Deuteronomy 8:1-3
• John 6:35-40

Questions for Reflection:

• What does it mean to "live by every word" that comes from God?
• How can we prioritize spiritual nourishment in our daily lives?
• In what ways does Jesus’ response to temptation inspire you to trust in God's provision?

Morning Prayer for Sunday, September 8, 2024

Heavenly Father, as we begin this new day, we come before You with hearts filled with gratitude. Thank You for the gift of life and the opportunity to serve You. As we meditate on Your Word today, remind us that we do not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from Your mouth. May our hearts be open to receive the spiritual nourishment that only You can provide. Strengthen us to walk in Your ways, trusting in Your provision and guidance. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Evening Prayer for Saturday, September 7, 2024

Holy God,

As this week comes to an end and the night surrounds us, we pause to give You thanks for Your unwavering faithfulness. Each day has been a testament to Your love and care, and we are humbled by Your kindness. As we settle in for the night, we pray for Your peace to envelop us, for Your protection to guard us, and for Your presence to be our comfort. Help us to rest in the assurance that You are with us, now and always. May we awaken tomorrow with hearts full of praise, ready to worship You anew.

In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse: Saturday, September 7, 2024 – Giving Back to God

Dear Friends,

As we close out this week, I want to leave you with a thought on the importance of giving back to God. Everything we have, including our resources, is a gift from Him. When we give to the work of the Kingdom, we are simply returning to God what is already His, and He uses it to accomplish His divine purposes.

Our ministry is dedicated to spreading the Word of God to as many people as possible. We do this without charging for subscriptions or selling books, trusting that God will provide through the generosity of His people.

I ask that you consider making a donation today by clicking the "Donate" button on our website. Your gift will help us continue to reach those who are hungry for the Word of God and need the hope that only Jesus can offer.

Thank you for your faithful support. Together, we are doing great things for the glory of God.

In His grace,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Nourished by the Word: A Deeper Look into True Sustenance

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I am excited to share with you that this Sunday, September 8, 2024, a new message titled "Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone" will be published on our ministry website. In this message, we will delve into the profound truth found in Matthew 4:4 and Deuteronomy 8:3, exploring what it means to seek spiritual nourishment from God's Word above all else.

I invite you to mark your calendars and set aside time to read and reflect on this important message. As you do, consider sharing it with your family, friends, and anyone else who may benefit from this powerful reminder of where our true sustenance lies.

Let us come together in spirit and grow in our understanding of how God sustains us through His Word. I look forward to joining you on this journey of spiritual nourishment.

Blessings in Christ,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Bible Study for Saturday, September 7, 2024: Reflecting on the Journey

As we conclude this week’s studies, we take time to reflect on our journey of discovering, using, and growing in our spiritual gifts. We will consider how God has worked through us and how we can continue to grow in our service to Him and others.

Bible Verses to Read:

• 2 Timothy 1:6-7
• Philippians 1:6
• Psalm 139:23-24

Questions to Consider:

• How has your understanding of your spiritual gifts grown this week?
• In what ways has God worked through you as you have used your gifts?
• What steps can you take to continue growing in your gifts and serving others in the future?

Please share your thoughts and observations in the comment section below.

Morning Prayer for Saturday, September 7, 2024

Heavenly Father,

As we come to the end of this week, we pause to give You thanks for Your constant presence and guidance. Help us to reflect on the ways we have used our gifts and to seek Your direction for the days ahead. Renew our spirits and strengthen our resolve to serve others with love and dedication. May Your grace continue to inspire us as we prepare for the week to come, and may our lives be a testament to Your unwavering faithfulness.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Evening Prayer for Friday, September 6, 2024

Merciful Father,

As the day draws to a close, we lift our hearts in prayer, thanking You for Your unending love and grace. You have been our strength and our guide, and we are grateful for Your presence in our lives. As we surrender ourselves to the quiet of the night, we ask that You cleanse our hearts and minds from any worries or fears. Let Your peace wash over us, calming our souls and preparing us for the new day ahead. May our sleep be sweet, and may we rise tomorrow with hearts ready to serve You.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Words from Brother Jesse: Friday, September 6, 2024 – A Heart for Giving

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As we draw closer to the end of the week, I want to express my deep gratitude for the love and generosity you have shown to this ministry. Your willingness to give is a reflection of a heart that is aligned with God’s purposes. It is through your gifts that we are able to continue offering free access to the Word of God, without charging for subscriptions or selling books.

However, as you know, there are costs associated with running this ministry. From maintaining our website to reaching out to those who are lost and in need of hope, your financial support is what makes it all possible.

If you feel led to give today, please use the "Donate" button on our website. Your contribution, no matter the size, is a vital part of this ministry and helps us to continue reaching those who hunger for the truth of God’s Word.

May God bless you richly for your generosity.

With sincere thanks,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse: Friday, September 6, 2024 – Trusting God with Your Gifts

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As we conclude this week, I want to speak to you about the importance of trusting God with the gifts He has given you. There may be times when you feel uncertain or inadequate in using your spiritual gifts. You may wonder if you’re truly capable of making a difference. But let me assure you, beloved, that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.

I remember when I was first called to serve as a deacon and later as the deacon chairperson. The responsibility felt overwhelming, and I questioned whether I had the ability to lead and serve effectively. But God, in His faithfulness, reminded me that it’s not about my ability but about my availability. When I surrendered my fears and doubts to Him, He provided the strength, wisdom, and guidance I needed to fulfill the role He had called me to.

I encourage you to trust God with your gifts, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem. He has a purpose for each one, and He will equip you to fulfill that purpose. Lean on Him, and let His Spirit guide you as you step out in faith to serve others. Remember, it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose (Philippians 2:13).

May you find peace and confidence in knowing that God is with you, and may you continue to use your gifts for His glory.

In His service,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain

SFIHG Ministries

Bible Study for Friday, September 6, 2024: Trusting God with Your Gifts

Today, we focus on the importance of trusting God with the gifts He has given us. Sometimes, we may feel inadequate or unsure of how to use our gifts. This study will encourage us to rely on God’s strength and wisdom as we step out in faith to serve Him.

Bible Verses to Read:

• Proverbs 3:5-6
• 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
• Isaiah 41:10

Questions to Consider:

• In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more with your gifts?
• How has God shown His faithfulness when you’ve stepped out in faith to use your gifts?
• How can you encourage others who may be struggling with self-doubt to trust in God’s provision?

Please share your thoughts and observations in the comment section below.

Morning Prayer for Friday, September 6, 2024

Almighty God,

Thank You for the strength and blessings You have provided throughout this week. As we enter this new day, we pray for Your continued guidance and support. Help us to fully utilize the gifts You have given us, with a heart that seeks to serve and honor You. May our actions today reflect Your kindness and compassion. Grant us the wisdom to make the most of every opportunity to advance Your Kingdom and to be a blessing to those we encounter.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.