Coming glory

Friends,

What we encounter here is not a preview. This world is filled with hate and rage that is intentionally directed at Christ and His followers. We see more and more evidence of what has been the case since the moment the enemy stood ready to devour the Child of God (Rev 12:4).

Jesus knew that we might question the point of all this suffering and persecution. And, because He is a wise leader, He answers this fundamental question ...

Matthew 19:27-28 [NKJV]
Then Peter answered and said to Him, See, we have left all and followed You. Therefore what shall we have?
So Jesus said to them, Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

What we encounter in this world will not last. It is passing. It is difficult, painful, and frustrating. But it is not eternal.

Our place, seated in the throne of Christ, is eternal. It has no end. And it is glorious.

Be encouraged, Jose

A full reward: Peace

Friends,

There can be no doubt. We are under attack. The world mocks Christianity. Our flesh resists the ways of Jesus. And the enemy seeks to kill, steal and destroy every blessing that comes from the hand of God.

The only place of true refuge and peace is in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Ruth 2:12
The LORD repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.

Jehovah has made a covenant with His people - us. He will fulfill that covenant, for He is faithful like no other. When we go to Him and take refuge under His wings, we will be satisfied.

Be encouraged, Jose

A joyful investment

Friends,

Each day, we owe it to ourselves to be reminded of just what we have in Christ Jesus. We defeat the enemy, little by little, when we recall the abundant blessing that has been purchased on our behalf.

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence,
Ephesians 1:7-8 [NKV]

In Christ, we have redemption. He gained it by the power of His blood. And this is no small thing. He has made this grace to be abundant towards us, His people. Its value is beyond measure and imagination. Its power is eternal and enduring. And finally, the Lord did not do this thoughtlessly or carelessly. He did it according to the wisdom of His perfect will.

Brothers and sisters, have you considered this blessing today? Have you really taken the time and energy to understand what it truly means? To do so is an investment in joy.

Be encouraged, Jose

Unshakable

Friends,

In the early days of human history, there was no shortage of religious ideas. One, however, was unique. And is a singular and critical part of our Christian heritage.

Most people believed in many gods. But one chosen people believed in one Almighty God. This was but one example of the remarkable faith that lies at the core of our beliefs.

After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.”
Genesis 15:1 [NKJV]

Abram left his land, his family and any assurances that they represented behind. He walked by faith to follow the One True God. By His grace, the LORD instilled in Abram an unshakable confidence and expectation that all of those wondrous promises would be fulfilled.

Those promises have not changed. They are just as valid today as they were so many thousands of years ago. The only thing that might have changed is that you and I are not quite as confident as Abram was.

Today, let us walk with renewed vigor and excitement. Let us demonstrate to all that we believe that the LORD is our protection and our great reward.

Be encouraged, Jose