Release - Intimacy with God

In our journey of fasting and prayer, we are reminded of the profound intimacy that God desires with each of us. This period of fasting is not just about abstaining from food but about drawing closer to God, understanding His heart, and experiencing His presence in a deeper way. As we delve into the 23rd Psalm, we see a vivid picture of what it means to have an intimate relationship with God. David's declaration, "The Lord is my shepherd," speaks of a constant, loving, and attentive care that God provides. This relationship is not about condemnation but about grace, mercy, and the assurance that God is our advocate, not our judge. God's desire is for us to approach Him boldly, knowing that we are forgiven and that He is always ready to extend His grace and mercy. This understanding transforms our perception of God from a distant judge to a close friend and advocate. As we walk through life's valleys, even those as daunting as the shadow of death, we are assured of His presence and comfort. His rod and staff guide and protect us, leading us to greener pastures and still waters, even in the presence of our enemies. The journey of intimacy with God also involves courage. As we prepare our hearts, like Jehoshaphat, we build courage through spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, reading the Word, and worship. These practices prepare us for spiritual battles, equipping us to stand firm against the enemy. Courage is not just taught; it is caught through our relationship with God and our community of faith. It is undergirded by trust and faith, meeting fear with faith and enabling us to step out boldly. In this season, let us focus our eyes on God, just as Jehoshaphat did, and trust that He is preparing a victory table for us in the presence of our enemies. Our courage is a testament to our faith, and as we continue to seek God, we will find that He is always pursuing us, ready to lead us into victory. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Intimacy with God:** Fasting and prayer are pathways to deepen our intimacy with God, allowing us to experience His grace and mercy. This relationship transforms our view of God from a judge to an advocate, reminding us that we are forgiven and loved. [01:45] 2. **The Shepherd's Care:** The 23rd Psalm illustrates God's attentive care as our shepherd, guiding us through life's valleys and leading us to peace and restoration. Even in the presence of enemies, His presence assures us of protection and provision. [07:43] 3. **Courage Through Discipline:** Spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, and worship build courage within us. This courage is essential for facing life's challenges and is a result of our trust and faith in God's promises. [14:50] 4. **Focus and Faith:** Keeping our eyes on God, as Jehoshaphat did, is crucial in spiritual battles. Our focus on Him strengthens our faith, enabling us to stand firm and courageous against the enemy's attacks. [20:53] 5. **Victory in Praise:** Praise is a powerful spiritual weapon that brings victory. As we worship and trust in God's presence, we find that He prepares a victory table for us, even amidst our struggles and adversaries. [28:47] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:45] - Intimacy with God - [03:30] - God's Grace and Mercy - [05:15] - The Shepherd's Care - [07:43] - Presence in the Valley - [09:20] - No Condemnation - [11:05] - Faith and Reward - [12:50] - Courage Through Discipline - [14:50] - Preparing for Battle - [16:55] - The Power of Focus - [18:30] - Spiritual Warfare - [20:53] - Victory in Praise - [23:14] - Trust and Faith - [24:32] - Courage in Action - [26:34] - Teaching Courage - [28:47] - Spiritual Weapons - [32:13] - God's Pursuit