MEAT FOR MATURITY – DISCIPLESHIP

“Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13, ESV). Our present mode of existence is the mode of waiting. When we look forward to something really good that we know is coming it fills us with energy to get through our days. It lifts our hearts to know that soon we are going to experience something very exciting. So waiting for something wonderful is not a bad thing, rather, it encourages us and keeps us focused on something good. Likewise, waiting for Jesus to appear with all his majesty and goodness on display strengthens us, knowing that our destiny is to live with him in his utopia forever. As we keep our gaze on Jesus and our future hope he empowers us to overcome all obstacles. See The Salvation Of God In Your Life – Weekly Words Of Continue Reading →

“Peace be with you” (John 20:19, 21, 26, ESV). After Jesus arose he appeared to his disciples and at least three times he said to them “Peace be with you.” They had been extremely distressed by his death and the opposition of the Jewish leaders but now Jesus is emphasizing that they should now have peace. “Peace” includes a general inner harmony and freedom from turmoil. This peace is available to all his followers who keep their focus on him and walk in his Spirit. Peace is a fruit of the Spirit and so if we keep faith we experience a deep peace that passes understanding (Phil. 4:7). When we embrace fear and unbelief this peace fades but we can always refocus ourselves on the peace Jesus gives. He wants us to have peace and he provides it. Let us be encouraged that God is in control of all things Continue Reading →

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, ESV). Jesus had just given a long talk to his disciples and encouraged them that they will have joy and be able to ask anything from the Father in Jesus’ name. But these words in verse 33 are not just for the disciples; they are for all his followers. When we abide in him we have inner peace even though outside, in the world, we have tribulation. This is a great description of life during the overlap of the former age and the kingdom of God. Since Jesus brought the kingdom when he came his followers get to experience the kingdom inside themselves. Thus, in the midst of a turbulent world we have something that no other group can Continue Reading →