Take Heart

The events of the past week have been difficult to comprehend at times. It is hard to see so much pain and suffering.

However, nothing that has happened changes this fact: God is always in control, no matter what.

So, here is a challenge to anyone who believes that today. Be a warrior for God! Be bold and don’t be afraid to speak out on His behalf.

The world needs more love, more grace, and more truth. Don’t hold back from spreading God’s message. He will give you the strength to do it…just ask.

Anyone can help change this world for the better. Why not you?

Blessings to all of you today, and every day.

The Gift of Peace

I came across this devotional and read it to our family during our recent vacation. Thought I’d share it here with you today as well.

Winning peace: Real peace is not won by avoiding or denying conflict. Conflict may be necessary to achieve peace. That’s why Jesus Christ fought and defeated the Enemy of our souls, freeing us to live at peace with God. “For he himself is our peace, who has … destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility” (Ephesians 2:14). No wonder the angels proclaimed “on earth peace to men” upon Jesus’ arrival in the manger (Luke 2:14).   

Receiving peace: Jesus told His disciples that He gives peace of a different quality than the world gives (John 14:27). The world can achieve a temporary absence of conflict through a change in circumstances. But lasting peace is received as a free gift from the One who defeated death and sin. It is not something we can obtain through our own efforts, nor something that can be taken away by life’s difficulties or conflicts. In Jesus’ words: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Experiencing peace: We can, however, rob ourselves of the peace that Christ offers. That’s why we are commanded to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts (Colossians 3:15). How? By replacing anxiety with prayer and thankfulness. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” The result? “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Click the link above or click here to read more. You’ll find some key points and additional readings to go along with this topic.

There is nothing like the peace of God! It can get you through anything and keeps you steady when the waves of the world might otherwise toss you around. It’s available to you at no cost – the price has already been paid. What an amazing gift.

Have a great day.

Justice

John 16:8
The Spirit will come and show the people of this world the truth about sin and God’s justice and the judgment.

I Find You When

‘How can I come to the end of me, and somehow still have all I need?’
‘I find You when I fall apart.’ 

I love this song. I hope it encourages you today.

Remember that no matter how deep the pain, how hard the struggle, or how much you hurt right now…God loves you.

It’s so hard to trust that during our toughest times, but those times serve the purpose of doing just that – building our trust and our faith in God.

What may seem like your worst moments can actually be setting you up for your best ones. Don’t give up. Good things are ahead for you!

John 16
³³ “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”