by Carol Roberts | Jul 4, 2015 | Salvation
There is assurance that Jesus will always speak the truth. In this day and time the truth isn’t always popular but it keeps us out of trouble. As the world has more and more of an attitude of wanting to please a crowd, God never changes. That is the beauty of our Lord.
Lies of the world are popular because it draws attention. People are quick to believe them because it promises much. Many flock to hear false teachings and spend numerous dollars to grow their empires. Lies, however come with a price. The person believing lies will soon be disappointed. There will become a time when the person promoting untruths will have smaller crowds where they lose one believer at a time. Nobody benefits from untruths.
On a more personal level, there are people who say they will show up to volunteer then not show, yet when praise and recognition to the volunteers happen, somehow those same people are there to get praise. Bosses will be rewarded for the hard work of their staff, yet the staff gets no bonus. Friends will promise time and we eagerly await their company yet it doesn’t happen. If people who speak untruths are ever approached to explain why their words don’t happen they will give yet another juicy lie as an excuse or they will retaliate in such a way where we just say fine and move on.
Nobody benefits from these untruths. Even the person promoting them has a harsh consequence in due time. There is much safety in the truth. The truth is consistent and has stood the test of time. The rewards of being truthful are pleasing God, God’s protection and God’s assurance of His everlasting presence and love.
John 8:31-32
Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to My teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
by Carol Roberts | Jul 4, 2015 | Encouragement
God uses us in mighty ways while here on earth to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many of the obstacles we face in life are to prepare us for a specific purpose in a specific situation. He uses our talents and skills as His tool to reach certain people or groups. When God finally reveals His purpose and tells us where to go, who to minister to and what to say, suddenly we feel unprepared.
There are situations listed in the Bible that speak of great battles being won by weak people. The battle is God’s and He has already conquered it all. Our only responsibility is to be ready and willing. He will do the rest.
1 John 2:13-14
I am writing to you who are mature in the faith
because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning.
I am writing to you who are young in the faith
because you have won your battle with the evil one.
I have written to you who are God’s children
because you know the Father.
I have written to you who are mature in the faith
because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning.
I have written to you who are young in the faith
because you are strong.
God’s word lives in your hearts,
and you have won your battle with the evil one.
by Carol Roberts | Jul 4, 2015 | Salvation
A masterpiece takes many types of brush strokes and many colors to make it perfect. Some brush strokes are very harsh while others are smooth and glide easily. Sometimes God will actually paint over an area that we might think is beautiful. There are some colors that are bright and attract our eye yet other colors are not so appealing. It’s those unappealing colors that draw our attention to the ones that are beautiful. The most beautiful color on our life’s masterpiece is Jesus. It takes many years for God to create a work in us.
You are beautiful. You are special. You are God’s masterpiece.
Ephesians 2:9-10
Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.
by Carol Roberts | Jul 4, 2015 | Love
We do not know what tomorrow holds but we know Who holds tomorrow. Jesus loves us every day and is with us in all things.
Romans 8:38
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.
by Carol Roberts | Jul 4, 2015 | Love
By far Jesus suffered the worst rejection. He created man in His image. He loves us, encourages us and even gives His life for us. He walks with us at all times and through all things. It’s almost unimaginable the sorrow He must feel each time a person faces death and chooses not to include Him in their lives. Goodbyes are never easy. Jesus gives His all to each of us because He loves us that much. For this reason, it’s understandable that when we reach out to people in love, not everyone will accept or know how to respond. Jesus understands our tears when those we tuck under our wings walk away because they no longer care. Many times we invest years of prayer, encouragement and support and learn all was just a game. Jesus understands because His love for us is greater than our best love for any person. When we care we have an opportunity to be like Jesus. Being a caring and loving person is open for hurt, but the greater reward is caring. With God’s grace we can overcome grief and hurt. Keep caring.
Psalm 86:5
O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help.