sacred selections 2/9

Dotty Behring of Cape Girardeau:

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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord.

Jeremiah 29: 11-14a (NIV)

The Rev. Doug Breite of Cape Girardeau says "this passage provides tremendous comfort and encouragement as we are reminded that we are redeemed through the cross of Jesus Christ. The Lord promises to be with us at all times."

But now, this is what the Lord says -- he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God.

Isaiah 43:1-3a (NIV)

Tom Fornkohl of Cape Girardeau:

Today is the day the Lord hath made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalms 118:24 (NIV)

Sharon Lee Simpson of Cape Girardeau says her paraphrase of the verse is "'Snuggle up to God and he will snuggle up to you.' I like it because it sounds loving."

Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you.

James 4:8a (KJV)