A Joy-filled Life

Read: Hebrews 12:1-11

"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." - Philippians 4:9

There are so many depressing events in our lives today. It is very hard to have peace and joy on a daily basis. That is why I love to read Paul's letter to the Philippians. I am encouraged by so many of his words.

Look at just a few:

• "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (1:6).
• “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (I:21)
• “For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose” (2:13).
• “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection” (3:10).
• “Forgetting what lies behind and pressing toward what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal" (3:13-14).
• “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (4:6).
• “The God of peace will be with you” (4:9).
• "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength" (4:13).

Paul suffered more persecution than I will probably ever experience; yet, he found contentment in the midst of it all. He lived one day at a time. He kept His focus on Jesus rather than on his circumstances. He learned contentment in every situation. He trusted God as his supply and strength.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, never let me live as just a hearer of Your Word, but help me to practice Your precepts as well. Draw me ever closer to Your heart each and every day.

Thought for the Day:

Loving God with your whole body, soul and spirit produces a joy-filled life.

An Antiquated Book

Read: 2 Timothy 3: 16-17

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." ~ Psalm 119:105

I have no idea how I could survive in this insecure world without the solid footing provided to me by God's Word. The Bible contains a complete library bound into one book. Although multiple authors penned it years ago and years apart, the message is relevant throughout the ages. From Genesis to Revelation, we sit entranced as we read of the amazing adventures of human beings just like us.

The Word also tells us that He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins and to provide us with Eternal Life. The Bible is important for us today because it shares relevant wisdom to give us the skill to live successful lives. It is a road map through the uncharted world in which we live, giving us hope in troubled times.

God did not create us and then abandon us on this earth. He gave us His Word to instruct us in how to live in the present at the same time that it encourages us to look to a future in His loving presence. God does not leave us in the dark. His prophecies give us clues about His plans and ignite our hope about His imminent return.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word that offers us hope, enlightenment, instruction and encouragement. Thank You for fulfilling many of its prophecies already and for allowing us to live in this age where Your prophecies are fulfilled almost on a daily basis.

Thought for the Day:

A Bible that is falling apart belongs to an owner that is getting it together.