5 /5 Joe Moe: We believe in God because, as His sheep, we recognize His voice (His truth; His messages). As His sheep, we cant doubt because we are made in His image.
God does listen to our needs and longings, especially when we have a very intimate relationship with him; meaning that we listen to and submit to His word (esp., ten commandments). He rewards obedience here, there and everywhere.
God does respond to us in His own beautiful, intimate way; yet also lovingly and accordingly to our own fruits (actions) and obedience.
Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay the price of sin - spiritual death. Jesuss death and Gods grace (favor) established a path to SALVATION. Although Gods love is unconditional, salvation is not unconditional. Salvation requires repentance of our sins. He preached about repentance clearly and sent His Apostles to do the same.
Our sinful nature requires that we repent of our sins and that we ask for forgiveness to receive SALVATION. Gods love, mercy, and compassion are UNCONDITIONAL, yet SALVATION requires repentance.
Our belief in God (our faith) and Gods faithfulness to us will lead us to REPENTANCE, especially through our daily trials, tribulations, struggles, and sufferings.
On our spiritual journey, God (Holy Spirit) often reminds us to reflect on his DIVINE LAW (Scripture) while praying for any type of healing or prosperity. Sometimes unanswered prayers require that we reflect deeper on devine scripture such as the following:
Matthew 5:23-24 says, "Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift".
God (Father) does quickly listen to our daily worries and concerns yet faithfully leads us to consider what His Holy Word REQUIRES US TO DO FIRST!
Lastly, when we come to God in a repentant (contrite) spirit and to atone for our sins, Gods LOVING and GENTLE SPIRIT encourages that we go willingly (even unwillingly) to perform ACTS of CHARITY. No great (incredible) act of Penance could be most beautiful to God than to love HIM by loving our neighbors through acts of charity. " Am I my brothers keeper" --- Being willing to sacrifice yourself to help someone and being supportive for the welfare of others is a Holy commandment that PLEASES our God of tenderness.
Mark 12:43-44
The Widow’s Offering
43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
