This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey | Share The Word

Eye on the Reward

Posted on June 23, 2025 by Mark Shields

Let us keep our eye on the reward, and suddenly things will start going our way. As it is written in Revelations 22:12, “Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done.” The current world is not perfect, but the new heaven and new earth as written about in today’s passage is beyond what we could imagine.

Reading today in Isaiah 65, noted is that just like in the time of Isaiah, the world today faces many challenges that weigh us down: issues with finances, health, relationships, disagreements, hatred, and wars. These burdens often seem insurmountable, leaving many in despair. However, amidst this turmoil, there is a beacon of hope—the promise of God’s intervention and the renewal He can bring.

The vision of Isaiah offers a powerful message for our times: amidst the struggles and trials, there is a divine promise of renewal and restoration. It is a call to hold onto hope, to trust in God’s plan, and to look forward to a future where we are lifted higher, free from fear and doubt, and embraced by the perfect peace of God’s new heaven and new earth.

Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of a time when the struggles of today will be replaced with joy and celebration. The people will find happiness in their perfect relationship with God, free from the fears and doubts that plague our present existence. This newness, brought about by the new heaven and the new earth, will fulfill God’s original intent for humanity.

God can take a few good things—a remnant—and grow something new. In the words of Psalm 41:12, “In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever.” This verse encapsulates the essence of divine support and the promise of being upheld by God’s righteousness. With the Holy Spirit guiding us, those who obey will be blessed, while those who rebel will experience setbacks.

Imagine the effect of this renewal. How would you feel? It is what God intended from the start: to lift us higher, to a perfect place where fear and doubt are never known. This vision of renewal is perfectly encapsulated in the prophecy of Isaiah, who foresaw a future of unparalleled peace and joy.

Lord, we seek You every day and believe in a future where there is peace and eternal bliss. We are thankful for Your provision and grateful for all we receive. Our hope is not in a distant dream but in Your promise and this encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting Your plan. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Posted in Bible Study, Rewards | Tagged Bible Study, Burdens, Celebration, Challenges, Faith, Hope, Joy, Peace, Photo, Praise, Prayer, Renewal, Restoration, Rewards | 3 Comments

Statements of Faith 06-20-2025

Posted on June 20, 2025 by Mark Shields

Everything is alright in the Light, where faith turns the impossible into the unstoppable. In this grand circus called the world, we step forward with purpose, guided by the Holy Spirit, who leads us beyond limitations and into boundless joy. Now is the prime time to embrace divine wisdom, uncover treasure beyond measure, and let our souls shine with eternal peace. With God, every step has wonder, every moment is a blessing, and our journey is one of fulfillment.

Link to a poem inspired by the book of John 11 Through 12

Here are some statements of faith from John 11 through 12. Say them aloud, write them down, or simply reflect on them. May they uplift and empower you for a great weekend!

I walk in the Light, knowing that everything is alright in God’s presence.
With faith, I step beyond impossible, into the unstoppable power of God.
My purpose is fulfilled, even in the circus of life, because He is my guide.
Now is my prime time to embrace divine wisdom and step into His calling.
I seek treasure beyond measure, finding eternal blessings in His grace.
The Holy Spirit leads me, lighting my path with peace and understanding.
My heart overflows with joy, for I am forever held in God’s love.

Posted in Declarations, Poems | Tagged Blessing, Faith, Fulfillment, Holy Spirit, Joy, Peace, Possible, Purpose, Wisdom, Wonder | 3 Comments

Questions for Reflection for Study of Isaiah 65 – 66

Posted on June 19, 2025 by Mark Shields

We are nearing the end of our journey through the book of Isaiah with two more chapters to go. We will continue to be focused on the purpose of this blog as we continue to use it in helping us to apply His Word in our life. I’ve found it to be a great tool in my journey through the Bible and you, my readers are keeping me accountable to daily Bible reading and study.

We live in a busy world with busy schedules and being able to share some thoughts about this journey with others across this world through the Internet is truly a blessing. Questions for Reflection will stimulate thought and offer ideas for applying biblical principles at work, at home, and in all we do.

Here is a link to all the devotionals done so far

Index of devotionals

Anyone can join in as we journey together.

Also, the concepts presented in God’s Perfect Timing offer ideas for using our time wisely and the lessons of God’s Plan for Us gives a method towards making an impact in the world in which we live.

The reading plan below will be used to hold me accountable to sharing about God’s word. As I share about my study of the book of 1 John over the next few weeks, it’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Christ as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day amazing!

Questions for Reflection

Isaiah 65 – What partial deliverance will God work now (vv. 8-12)? What effect is there with the new earth? How would you feel in such a situation? Why?

Isaiah 66– What does God want from you? What will point the way to God clearly? What metaphor is used to describe peace? Do you hope to awaken to such a gathering of nations in worship of the living, true God?

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.

To store up thoughts that are good for the soul, listen to a sermon. Download the free app in the App Store or on Google Play. Look for First Waco.

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.

“Sermons.” Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

“Bible.” The Bible – The Word of God – ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. “Recent Commentaries.” Family-Times.net – Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.

“Bing.” Microsoft. N.p., n.d. Web. Images >.

“BibleGateway.” BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.

Posted in Questions for Reflection | Tagged Bible Study, Christ, Faith, God’s Plan, Holy Spirit, Hope, Leadership, Lessons, Life, Love, Prayer, Reflection, Scripture | 1 Comment

Looking Back at Isaiah 58-64 for Encouragement on the Journey Ahead

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Mark Shields

Like a well-watered garden, our souls can flourish when we embrace each moment with purpose, turning the mundane into joyful experiences by attuning ourselves to the rhythm of the Father’s heart. Instead of dwelling in routine, we wait with patient hope for the brighter future He promises, equipped with the armor of faith — the sword of the Spirit, the shield of faith, and the helmet of salvation — ready to overcome life’s battles. Through His grace, we learn to see the worth in others, embracing them as God has embraced us, as we are carefully molded into vessels for His divine purpose.

Reading Isaiah 58 and pointed out in Return to the Lord, the challenge for us is to allow the words from the Bible to flow into our eyes and ears. Then into our heart to spur action. Let us ask in prayer for ideas and the discipline that enables acts of kindness, compassion, and ways to help the needy. Ask for the Spirit to guide and provide so each community can flourish like a well-watered garden.

Noted in the post The World is a Mess but He Can Bless obtained from the study of Isaiah 59, incorrect thoughts and actions led down the wrong path. As in the day of Isaiah’s prophecies, the world may seem messy and broken in current times too, but available for us today is a path to redemption and renewal by accepting Jesus as Savior.

The takeaway from Isaiah 60 as explained in Hope in the Darkness is that the world looked out from darkness in search of light. Searched for solutions to difficult problems. Hope cheers us on to diligently seek a solution and faith shines its light. Let us be thankful that God’s love from above unexpectedly solved the problem when Jesus died on the cross.

The picture being painted into our mind from Isaiah 61 as pointed out in Receiving Abundant Blessings is one of wisdom, direction, abundance, and eternal joy. We are put into a condition conducive to receiving the blessings that only God can give.

Reading Isaiah 62 and pointed out in Acceptance, only God can look at somebody’s heart and see value when others may not. He values everyone so much that He sent Jesus Christ to die for all. This should change our attitude towards all people; even those who disagree with us or hurt us.

Reflecting on Isaiah 63-64 with thoughts posted in Relying on the Faithfulness of God, our role is to be molded by God into vessels for His purpose, carrying out His divine will. It is through surrender and trust in His plan that we find our strength and direction. As we navigate life’s great journey, let us hold steadfast to the faithfulness of God, knowing that with Him, all things are possible.

Over the last few weeks, we’ve concluded that true faith is rooted in authenticity, an unwavering trust in the Lord’s promises. Though the world may be chaotic, His blessings remain abundant, shining through the darkest moments with the hope of a brighter future. In His divine plan, we receive endless grace, knowing that the greatest reward is not found in fleeting earthly treasures, but in His everlasting love. As we navigate life’s trials, we lean on His faithfulness, knowing He guides and sustains us every step of the way.

Posted in Bible Study, Devotionals | Tagged Abundance, Acceptance, Bible Study, Faith, Grace, Hope, Love, Optimism, Overcome Difficulties, Purpose, Self-Discipline, victory | 3 Comments

Molded Into Vessels for His Purpose

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Mark Shields

Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. – Isaiah 64:8

Brought out in “Relying on the Faithfulness of God”, our role is to be molded by God into vessels for His purpose, carrying out His divine will. It is through surrender and trust in His plan that we find our strength and direction. As we navigate life’s great journey, let us hold steadfast to the faithfulness of God, knowing that with Him, all things are possible.

When faced with adversity, it is natural to feel disheartened, but God’s going to continue working on each of us like the song Unfinished by Mandisa. The concept that “God’s not finished” speaks to the ongoing nature of our spiritual journey. It is a reminder that we are all a work in progress, continuously being molded and shaped by God and for His purpose.