Saturday, December 5, 2015

Jesus

However, we possess this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves. 
2 Corinthians 4:7 AMP

Let's stop for a moment and think about Jesus. Who He is, what He did and what that means for us? 

Turn off all other noise around (internal and external), close your eyes and call out His name - Jesus - it may be a whisper, it may be a cry, it may be a shout. Just say His name - Jesus. Say it again, and again and let His spirit minister to you.

For me, repeatedly declaring the name Jesus, reminds me that I am nothing without Him. As time goes on and life experiences build, I am becoming more and more aware of this truth. It is with that understanding, that we can declare with confidence the next part of that scripture ....

We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair; 

We are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed;

Always carrying about in the body the liability and exposure to the same putting to death that the Lord Jesus suffered, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be shown forth by and in our bodies.
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 AMP

So despite our circumstances, in Christ Jesus ...
We are NOT cramped or crushed
We are NOT perplexed and unable to find a way out
We are NOT driven to despair
We are NOT deserted
We are NOT struck out and destroyed

No, we live. And in Jesus we can live our lives to the full.

The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
John 10:10 AMP

Let's pray, thank you Jesus that You came to earth. Thank you that You walked among men, showing us how to live, teaching us about the power and authority we have in You, in our lives. Thank you for overcoming darkness and allowing us to be in right relationship again with our Heavenly Father. Thank you for your mercy and grace that enables us to get up each day and grow closer to You. Please help us to always put you at the centre of our lives, and forgive us when we don't. We love you Jesus, help us to be Your light in this world today. Amen

Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldy draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God's unmerited favour to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it]. Hebrews 4:16 AMP

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