Hope in Christ

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) 
 
We live in a world wrought with pain and suffering. 
 
Disease, divorce, death, and loss happen every day.  

And many times, when something tough happens, it is totally out of our control.  
 
So, how do you rejoice, much less, give thanks in every situation?  

As an heir and child of God, your hope isn’t in the things of this earth. 
 
Your hope is in Christ and the eternal life you have with Him!   

Your pain and suffering are momentaryin light of what is awaiting you in eternity.  We are to fix our eyes on Jesus. 
 
He knows and understands every hurt. 
 
He aches with you, and the Holy Spirit groans and intercedes for you.  
 
God promises you that He will give you the grace you need to handle every situation.  
 
Even though you may not understand why something is happening, you can trust the Lord.  
 
There is a song by Babbie Mason that says, “When you don’t see His plan. When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart.” 
 
Remember that what Jesus did on the cross is real, and His Word is true, let nothing steal your joy!  
 
When I read this devotion it blessed me. Remember this today, To trust God in the light is nothing, but to trust Him in the dark, that is faith. He sees the things you can’t. 

Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!


Share The Gospel

For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness. (1 Thessalonians 2:5) 
 
Talking about what Jesus means to you is the most natural way to share the gospel.
 
Techniques or memorized talks are not likely to mean much to anyone.
 
If we compare ourselves to others or try to follow the formula of a group we are not depending on God… who would love to speak through you!
 
God has trusted you to further the Kingdom and He will be with you.
 
Jesus you are my friend, redeemer, savior and so much more. It is a joy to talk about my life with you! 
 
Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. (1 Timothy 1:5) 
 
When I read this devotion I felt it was full of so much truth. When sharing the gospel just speak from the heart. I read something once and it blessed me, it said, “Don’t be afraid to speak from personal experience; in many ways, those vulnerable moments will be the key that unlocks a hardened heart”. Take a moment today and think about what Jesus means to you from the heart, then go out into the world and share it with others. It will come so naturally, just be real, not out of technique or memorized talks but from personal experience. He will be with you every step of the way.
 
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!


Encouragement

Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. (1 Thessalonians 4:1)

I recently read. When Paul wrote to the Thessalonians he motivated them not with an award but with words of encouragement. He said, “Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more” (1 Thess. 4:1). These Christians were pleasing God through their lives, and Paul encouraged them to continue to live more and more for Him.

Maybe today you and I are giving our best to know and love and please our Father. Let’s take Paul’s words as an incentive to continue on in our faith.

But let’s go one step further. Who might we encourage today with Paul’s words? Does someone come to mind who is diligent in following the Lord and seeking to please Him? Write a note or make a phone call and urge this person to keep on in their faith journey with Him. What you say may be just what they need to continue following and serving Jesus. 

Dear Lord, thank You for encouraging me through Your Word to keep living for You. Help me to encourage someone in my path today who needs an encouraging word to keep the faith and to continue following and serving You. May I be a light in someone’s day today. Amen.

Have a wonderful day in The Lord!

Today’s Reading is 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7