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

Statements of Faith from 1 John 4:1-12

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Mark Shields

Here are some statements of faith from the study of 1 John 4:1-12. Say them aloud, write them down, or simply reflect on them. May they uplift and empower you for a great week!

I walk in the light of God’s Word, and it illuminates my path with truth.
I am guided by divine wisdom in every decision I make.
God’s Word dwells richly in me, shaping my thoughts and actions with grace.
I choose joy, knowing that God’s truth brings peace to my heart.
I am empowered to love others deeply, just as Christ has loved me.
My heart is open to understanding, and my spirit is anchored in truth.
I reflect God’s kindness in the way I live and serve.
I rise above confusion and fear, grounded in the clarity of Scripture.
I am a vessel of healing, hope, and compassion in the lives of others.
Each day, I walk in truth and live in love, led by the Spirit of God.

Posted in Statement of Faith | Tagged Compassion, Decisions, Grace, Hope, Joy, Kindness, Love, Peace, Scripture, Statements of Faith, Truth, Wisdom | 1 Comment

Thought From Devotional 09-12-2025

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Mark Shields

Being well acquainted with God’s Word cultivates a deep reservoir of knowledge that goes beyond mere information—it nurtures spiritual understanding and discernment. As 1 John 4:1-12 reminds us, true love and truth come from God, and knowing His Word equips us to recognize what is genuine and good. This clarity empowers us to make wise, Spirit-led decisions that align with His will. Such guidance not only brings inner peace and joy but also stirs within us a desire to extend love and support to others, reflecting the very nature of God’s love that was made observable through Christ.

Posted in Thoughts From Devotional | Tagged Decisions, Discernment, Empowerment, Guidance, Joy, Knowledge, Love, Peace, Photo, Thought From Devotional, Truth | 1 Comment

Questions for Reflection for the Study of Joel

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Mark Shields

In our bustling world filled with demanding schedules, finding moments to connect with others and reflect on this journey we call life is truly a gift, made possible through the power of the Internet. Sharing thoughts and engaging in meaningful discussions across the world is an incredible blessing, offering a space for encouragement and growth. The provided Questions for Reflection below aim to inspire thought and guide the practical application of biblical principles—timeless truths that support and nurture us through every stage of life, helping us thrive in our unique paths. If you haven’t yet, be sure to click the follow button at the top right of this page to stay updated on future posts.

Questions for Reflection

Joel 1 – What happened in the land? What are the responses urged by God? How is religious worship affected by the plague? How do you respond when circumstances prevent your participation in corporate worship? What do I need to do when a crisis comes into my life?

Joel 2:1-17 – What is Joel describing (review 1:4, 6-7)? In the midst of this chaos what does God urge? Why do we have confidence in finding solutions when doing what God urges?

Joel 2:18-32 – How does this section grow out of yesterday’s reading? How has God acted in restoration? How is the day of the Lord motif woven into the picture?

Joel 3 – How does this chapter add to the previous section? To your understanding of the day of the Lord? What is the climax to the day of the Lord activities? What lessons can be learned from today’s passage?

Feel free to respond with a thoughtful note or a comment about any of the questions discussed. Additionally, I warmly invite you to share your favorite inspirational videos, photos, or Bible verses that have touched your heart. Please contribute your ideas and reflections in the comments or post them on the dedicated Facebook page: This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey. Together, let’s build a nurturing community that uplifts and supports one another in our spiritual growth and journey through faith. Your voice and inspiration can spark hope and encouragement in someone else’s day!

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

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

The Spiritual Journey Continues Through the Book of Joel Next

Posted on September 10, 2025 by Mark Shields

I’ve just completed the spiritual journey through the book of Jonah, and now I’m turning to the book of Joel for fresh insight and encouragement. For your convenience, I’ve included a link to all the devotionals I’ve shared so far, organized by book of the Bible and specific chapter—making it easy to revisit any reflection that speaks to you. My hope is that these devotionals will continue to inspire and uplift you as we grow in faith together. Thank you for walking this path with me—it’s a joy to share the journey.

Index of Devotionals

If you would like to get notified with each new post, I invite you to click on the follow button on the far top right of this page to join me on this spiritual journey. Another way to keep up with my spiritual journey is through the Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey. Click like and share so friends and family outside of WordPress can view too.

Posted in Bible Study, Devotionals, Journey | Tagged Bible Study, Community, Faith, Family, Hope, Journey, Lessons, Love, Prayer, spirituality, Values, victory, Wisdom, Worship | 1 Comment

Fix Our Eyes on the Unseen

Posted on September 9, 2025 by Mark Shields

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. – 2 Corinthians 4:18

A thought from the post “A Rainbow That Follows a Storm” is that individuals who are organized, unified, and laser-focused are always in high demand. Their ability to stand firm in defending what is right, guided by principles that have withstood the test of time, makes them invaluable. These proven foundations, rooted in wisdom and integrity, not only ensure success today but also promise stability and effectiveness in the future. With unwavering purpose and a commitment to truth, they lead with confidence, shaping a path that others can trust and follow.

The song Fix My Eyes by King & Country reminds us that the road less traveled may be difficult, but it is worth walking in faith. It calls us to love boldly, without fear, to speak out for freedom, and to keep our eyes fixed on the Lord—the source of strength and truth. In a world full of distractions, this song encourages us to stand firm, to pursue what is right, and to live with unwavering devotion to Him. A beautiful reminder that faith and courage go hand in hand.