More than a 911!

I searched for an analogy to compare the constant presence of God in our lives but found none! No surprise there! There is no one like our God. None that could compare to His likeness. He is ever present. When you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, he is right there with you. When you walk through the fire, He covers you under His wings. He hears you even before you call Him. He knows your heart beat. He knows your thoughts. He knows your fears. He sees your struggles.You are not alone.

The breath of life that you and I have this moment is a hidden privilege. Something that we rarely thank God for. We hear of accidents, acts of brutality and violence, deadly diseases, wars and inhumane practices against fellow human beings yet, we enjoy this moment of peace and quiet. This life we so enjoy is a gift from God. God is our constant source of strength and refuge. He is waiting for that day when you will have the most perfect encounter with Him. When you will uncover the true meaning of life! Whether you like it or not, whether you believe it or not, whether you need Him or not, the truth of the matter is, Jesus loves you. He still loves you. Don't slam the door shut in His face. He is waiting for you right outside, but the key to that door is in your hands. It is grace that prevents Him from leaving you. 

John 10:9,10 says, 'I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.'

God sends His angels to guard over your every step. When your feet slipped for a moment, it was the angel of God who caught you and saved you from what could've been a fatal fall. Something as small as missing a train, waking up late, getting stuck in traffic, bending down to look for something, running out of sugar, taking the stairs, the deviation from the regular routine did not happen as a coincidence but according to God's master plan to save you from a cruel danger. Often you may not notice this moment of rebirth. Often instead of thanking God, you may get angry with Him. We forget that God sees the big picture of our life and what we see is just the teaser. 

Our God is quicker than any 911! He is more than a response in times of emergency. He is more than a solution but a permanent fix. While in a flood, some hold on to logs of wood and stone. They've got a momentary grip. Like the piece of wreck they hold on to, they too are headed for a fall. But for us, we hold on to Christ our Anchor. The Author of our salvation. The Life Saver. Our Shade in the desert.

Psalm 121:2

My help comes from the Lord- the Maker of heaven and earth. 

Psalm 37: 23,24

The Lord firms the steps of the one who delights in Him. Though He may stumble, he will not fall,

for the Lord upholds him with His hand.

Psalm 91:9 - 16

If you say,"The Lord is my refuge,"and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you,no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. "Because he loves me" says the Lord,"I will rescue him; I will protect Him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with Him in trouble,

I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.

While we were still sinners!

This is how much God loves us. Jesus lay down His life on that cross just to pay the price for our sins. He doesn't want you to perish and taste death. He wants to you to be free and enjoy eternal life with Him in heaven. Heaven is a beautiful place. There's only joy and peace. Jesus can change your little world into heaven when you allow Him to. Jesus died on that cross so that we didn't have to. He took up our sins. He bore our punishment. Just for us.

It is highly unlikely that someone would lay down his life for another. Maybe for someone who is highly honoured, respected and noble, there might be someone ready to take a bullet for him. But for someone wicked? An adulterer? A thief? A murderer? A cheater? A liar? The good news is, there is someone. His name is Jesus. Jesus died for us while we were yet sinners. He died not because we are any good. Not because we are worthy. Not because we are righteous. But because he loves us. Because God wants to be our father. He yearns to have a personal relationship with you. 

He loves you even in your darkest moment. When man doesn't want to take a second look at you because of the things you have done, Jesus looks at you with love in his eyes. With mercy and grace He will heal you. He won't condemn you. He is ready to forgive you. He will help you get out of this. He will stretch out his arm toward you and accept you for who you are. He will make you new. He will help you start over. He will help you set things right with God and man. We don't deserve this Kind of love. No one has gone through what Jesus went through just so that He could win you over. His death was not easy. He was flogged severely. He was pierced. A crown of thorns was thrust on his head. They nailed him to the cross. The pain was unbearable. There he was. Hanging on a cross. Gravity weighed him down. He bled till the last drop. Bled and died. He died wanting to give you life. He died wanting to give you hope, Peace & Love. He died wanting to give you freedom. Through the power of His resurrection there is freedom. Freedom from sin and death. Freedom from worries and stress. He died wanting you to Know Him. Know Jesus, know peace. No Jesus, no peace. 

 

Miracles and wonders.

God is putting all the pieces of your life's puzzles together. You may look at it in part and worry about how it's so messed up. But Jesus, He sees your future and not your past. He holds your tomorrow in His hands. He sees your end from the beginning. He's got a beautiful plan for you. He knows what's in store for you. You don't have to worry about what will happen next because you have God as your pillar of Hope. He is your strength isn't He? 

You held on to God when life hit you hard. Your friends and relatives abandoned you and mocked you, yet in the midst of all those humiliation you cried out to God. Man may not respect you for who you are but because you love God and your hope is in Him, heaven rejoices over you. 

Because you never turned away from God in difficult situations and your love for Him increased day by day, God says "A miracle is on its way!". It's going to blow away your mind. No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has ever conceived what the Lord has prepared for those who love Him! All things work together for good for those who love God! For you and me. His ways, his thoughts are higher than ours. He who began this good work in you will bring it into completion until the day Jesus comes back. God's word will accomplish what it says and will not return back to Him empty.

Others will see this huge difference in your life, how your life has been transformed. You were once in a slimy pit, humiliated and rejected. Considered worthless and good for nothing. There was one thing in your life that gave you a lot of pain. Yet in all that, your faith in God grew stronger and God became your strength. God will lift you up in due time. Until then be safe in His arms. Hold on to Him. Stand firm in your faith. He performs wonders that you cannot understand. He performs miracles that cannot be counted. 

Yet, I will rejoice.

                       

Our relationship with God must not be based on what we receive from Him. Our faith must not be based on evidence. Our love for God must be unconditional. Limitless. Unending. Boundless. Infinite. Eternal. Unswerving. Because He loves us more than what we deserve. Real love needs no reason. God's love is so real and true. There are a million reasons why He shouldn't love us. Just take a trip down memory lane and you'll see. But Jesus does not need a reason to love you. You are His child. His Prince and Princess. He doesn't need us but wants us. He's got a palace ready for each one of us up there in heaven. He loves us so much that He wants us to spend eternity with Him there. An eternity without tears, pain, fear, hopelessness and worries common to man. 

How can we shift focus from our problems to Peace? How can we celebrate when we're bankrupt? How can we smile when we are in pain? How can we rejoice in the Lord when we suffer in agony? How can have joy in God  when our hope has been crushed?  

By fixing our eyes on Jesus. By seeing everything through His eyes. You are His child. Will He leave you in your moment of despair? He will fulfil all your needs. He cares for you. You are precious and honoured in His sight, remember? He who dresses up the butterflies in all those beautiful colors, who holds the universe in place, who made everything on earth so beautiful, has engraved you in the palm of His hands. He values you above everything. When you walk in the valley of pain, loneliness, bankruptcy, stress, rejection, depression, just keep in mind, You are not alone! The Almighty God goes ahead of you making all the crooked paths straight. He will hold your hand and lead you out of it. Even the trace of suffering will not be found in you. The joy you are about to experience is inexplicable. With Him you can experience heaven right here on earth. Right in the midst of all your pain.  

For all that you are going through, turn to God. Thank Him. You are going to make it through. Praise Him for what's about to happen. Praise Him for this training period. Rejoice in Him. Sing love songs to Him. Fill your heart with the joy of the Lord. Don't worry about tomorrow. He's got this! This is just gonna make you stronger. Let us say, "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my savior" 

Words!

The tongue although a small part of our body is the most powerful organ. A huge forest fire starts with just a tiny spark. Likewise our tongue is so small yet so significant. We cannot tame our tongue by ourselves. We've got to submit ourselves to God and He will put His words in our mouth so that each word that comes out will glorify Him. 

                            Sometimes, it's better to remain silent than utter a word. Jesus Himself is a great example for us to learn from. There are many instances when He was silent. Silent to false accusations. He spoke few words yet they were so powerful. Sometimes silence is the best. When we are silent to accusations and negative criticism, God Himself will speak up for us. The Holy Spirit will give us the right words to speak at that moment. Until then we need to stay quiet and calm. Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent. Let us be conscious of what we speak. Let us have our mind renewed constantly by the word of God.  Let us make a covenant that no unclean word will come out of our mouth. 

                          Always fill yourselves with the word of God. Fill your heart with God's love. Let it be rich, abundant and overflowing so that the words you speak will reflect the love of God. Let your conversations be holy.  Always think before you let out a word. The power of life and death is in your tongue. Speak life. Our words must encourage one another and not crush their spirits. Our words must heal, not hurt. Build, not break. Comfort, not condemn. Pure, not perverse. Mend, not mock. Love, not hate. Let the words of your mouth and the meditation of your heart be pleasing in the sight of God.

Set me free!

Jesus came down to this earth. Not to condemn but to care. Not to destroy but to build up. Not to hate but to love. Not to forsake you but to redeem you. Jesus came so you may live and not die. To give you eternal life. To save u from the wrath of God.

Jesus came to set the captives free. To set free those who lock up themselves within a prison and refuse to come out. A prison of despair. A prison of insecurity. A prison of loneliness. A prison of fear. A prison of hopelessness. A prison of shame. A prison of guilt. A prison of regret. But Jesus, will break your chains. He will break the iron bars. He will hold your hand and bring you out of the prison you are in. Sin has no control over you. Death has no control over you. Because you have been set free. Freedom is yours in Christ Jesus. 

Jesus came so that those who refuse to stay blind to Him, might see Him. To recover sight to those who are blind to evil. To recover sight to those who look at the problems in their life.He will open up your eyes so that you will stop focussing on your problems and start focusing on God. Because when you do, a solution is on its way. You will see the big picture!! 

Jesus came to set the oppressed free. Never think that no one sees your pain. God is watching. You wet your pillows every night with your tears. God has collected each and every drop. Jesus loves you and he cares for you. He will set you free from abusive relationship. He will set you free from hidden sins. He will set you free from inferiority complex. He will set you free from addiction. He will set you free from your past mistakes! The blood of Jesus will cover you and you will be able to do all things through Jesus who strengthens you.

When you believe in Jesus and allow Him into your heart, you will be made new. Your old self has passed away. You will have peace like never before. You will learn to smile at the storm! You will have life and have it abundantly. 

Choices

When God made man He could've written a set of codes and programmed them into his memory so that he would do everything just as He wanted. The God who made galaxies and beyond can definitely make a robot! It's like the alphabet to Him. But hey! God wants no Siri! God wants you and me! He calls us each by name. He knew each one of us even before we were formed in our mother's womb! He knew this day would come. All that He is longing for, is a personal relationship with you and me. He does not force Himself on us. He knows love is not something to be forced. He wants us to love Him with all our heart, soul and mind. Complete adoration. 

                                 That is the reason He gave us the freedom of choice. It all began with Adam and Eve. God gave them freewill. A choice to obey or disobey. They chose to disobey. And hence, the birth of sin! You and I would've done the same, sooner or later. The choices we make today decide the consequences we would face tomorrow. Life is full of choices.

                                 God's desire for each one of us is that we will not perish but live eternally like Him. With Him. That was what He intended. But through the disobedience of one man, sin prevailed. Death came into existence. But God in His immense love for us, sent down His own son Jesus so that through Him our purpose would be fulfilled. Jesus gave Himself up as a sin offering, as a willing sacrifice so that our sins maybe atoned for. So that you would be made perfect through Him. So that you would escape death and enjoy eternal life. 

                                God is slow to anger, rich in mercy and abounding in love. He is at the same time a consuming fire. He cannot stand our sins. He is a Holy God, but our unholiness and rebellious attitude calls for His wrath on us. But we are saved through grace. Saved through Jesus. Made perfect in Him. Believe in the name of  Jesus. Confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that He is the only way to salvation. Because He is. Again you are faced with a choice. A choice between freedom and captivity. A choice between holiness and sin. A choice between heaven and hell. A choice between life and death. What do you choose today?

Just for you.

Jesus,the sinless lamb of God. The definition of Holiness. The only standard for purity. Men heaped accusation upon accusation. Insult upon insult. They mocked Him, spat on His face, placed a crown of thorns on His head, gave Him vinegar to drink, made Him walk barefoot on a rugged road. Stones must've torn His feet. To top it all, He was made to carry a cross. He was whipped. He was pierced with sharp nails. Blood gushed out of His body. Till there was none left. All for you and me. He took our place so that we may not be condemned to hell but would enjoy eternal life with Him forever in heaven. 

                           There are times when you reject God completely. You even question His existence. But it is only because of Him that you have the privilege of being alive. We hear of accidents, natural disasters, war and death everyday. We live in a world that is void of love and mercy for one another.  Yet, God in His great mercy, has protected you. He has given you the breath of life. All because of His grace. All because He wants you to spend eternity with Him. All because He wants you to taste the joy of salvation. All because He wants you to experience peace that surpasses all understanding. All because you are precious and honoured in His sight. All because He cares for you. All because He loves you.

                           You don't have to slaughter animals for your forgiveness. Our God is not pleased with our sin offerings or burnt offerings. He is not delighted in traditions and rituals. He does not enjoy the blood of lambs and bulls or the flesh of any living creature. He does not want you to tear your flesh and shed blood so that your sins will be given. So that you will be blessed. So that God will listen and answer your prayers. NO!! Your sins have been washed away. You are forgiven. You have a new life. Because, Jesus has paid the price in full. He has redeemed you. He sacrificed Himself for you! All this because he does not want you to perish. But have an eternal life. There is life after death. You are not going to born in any other avatar but you will retain this image of God you have by default and spend the rest of eternity in a place where there will be joy instead of tears, peace instead of purpose, happiness instead of sorrow! All you have to do to get there is to have faith in Jesus. That He is God and there is no other like Him. That Jesus, He is the way, He is the truth, He is the life and that there is salvation in no other name but the name of Jesus! Repent, Believe and you will be saved. 

Why do we face trouble?

You and I are sons and daughters of the living God through Jesus Christ. We are born of God. God disciplines those He loves. You and me. Just like a father disciplines His child. He is our father. The problems you face, is not to pull you down but to push you up, towards God. This trouble you face is not a punishment but it's a training for what's ahead of you. God has allowed certain things in your life so that through it all you will come out strong. Like gold tested in fire! It is cleansed of all impurities and comes out in its purest form. 

               You will walk through waters. You will pass through rivers. You will walk in fire. God doesn't promise an easy way out. He is no genie! He is God! He is above everything. He created the waters. He created fire. And everything else. He will come down and hold your hand and lead you out of it. You will walk through fire yet not one of your hair will be singed. You will walk through waters yet on dry land. You will walk through storm yet you will find rest. Because God has redeemed you. God looks at you and says, "YOU ARE MINE!! You were bought at a price. You are precious and honored in sight!" 

             The road you walk now maybe filled with thorns and rocks. But God promises that surely there is an end. All your hopes and longings will not be cut off. At the end of that road you will find a reward for your patience, long suffering, pain, hurt, your acts of love in the midst of sorrows, acts of generosity in the midst of little, acts of kindness in the midst of hurt, acts of gentleness in the midst of abuse! Great is your reward. God sees your tears. He cares for you more than anyone in this world. You are not alone. Because Jesus loves you. More than you can imagine.

The pain you are suffering now cannot be compared to the joy that is on its way. Just like how a mother doesn't remember the pain during childbirth, the moment she sees the baby in her hands. God knows what's best for you. Surrender your life to Jesus because only He can mend a broken heart! He is close to the brokenhearted and those whose spirits are crushed. You will overcome this training with the strength of an eagle. Endure hardship and count it a blessing to be rebuked by our father. God Himself!

Needs and Wants!

Often in life we battle between our needs and wants. Have you come across someone who has less than what you have yet are more happy? Being content with what you have is a blessing. God has called us to lead a life of contentment. He wants us to be happy with what we have and not envy at others who have more. Mark 11:24 says, "Therefore  I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours." When Jesus was on earth He taught everyone a beautiful prayer. Ask for His will to be done. Ask for Him to come soon. Ask for Him to supply your food. Ask Him for forgiveness. Ask Him for protection from temptation. In addition ask for joy in the midst of sorrow. Ask for strength in the midst of weakness. Ask for patience in the midst of suffering. Ask for peace in the midst of problems. Ask and you will receive(Matthew 7:7)! 

                                                              We need to be mindful of what we ask. God has called us to lead a life of Godliness. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 says,'But Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.' He goes on to say in verse 11, 'But you, man of God, flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.' 

                                                               We do not receive some things we ask because we ask them with selfish motives(James 4:3). We ask so that we may lead a luxurious life. We compare ourselves with others. That only leads to worrying. We look at people who have no fear of God or even lack a good conscience, yet are wealthy. We get so worked up about it. We just can't stop thinking about them. We forget that we serve a God who owns the cattle on a thousand hills! The wealth in every mine! Money is not going to get you to heaven. The world we now live in is just a temporary shack. Our purpose is higher. There is a greater calling. 

                                                               But as humans we all want to have a good life as long as we live on earth. Our God is the creator the whole universe and beyond. We read in Psalm 50:10-12 about God's wealth. The world and all in it belongs to Him. And the best part? When we believe in Him, we become His children and He, our father!! (John 1:12) Won't He bless you? Won't He supply all your needs? Let me prove to you that He will. His words are true and he keeps His promises.

Psalm 34:9, 10 - ..Those who fear the Lord lack nothing...Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

Psalm 37:25,26- ..Yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. They are always generous and lend freely; Their children will be a blessing.

2 Peter 1:3- His divine power has given us everything we need for a Godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.

John 10:10 - I have come so that they may have life and have it abundantly.

How do we have life?

Proverbs 19:23- The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

                                                When Jesus was on earth, although He was the Son of God, He chose to lead the life of a common man. There were times when He went hungry. There were times when He was thirsty. There were times when the disciples did not have money to pay tax. They always walked from one place to another(Not that cars were in town but donkeys were!). They were not rich enough to feed to five thousand(men alone). Even apostles like Peter, John, Paul and many more were not leading a life of luxury. In Phillipians 4:12, 13 Paul says, 'I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.' They all had the word of God in their hearts and an unshakable faith In God. They believed that nothing is impossible with God! 

                                                  We need to take one day at a time. We must not worry about tomorrow. We must be renewed in mind and soul each day by spending time with God. Our soul must be rich with the word of God. We need to help one another in need because He who gives money to the poor lends to God Himself. The more you are generous and helpful, the more you store up treasures for you in heaven. Greater will be your reward. Commit your ways to the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. God has called us to lead a life of godliness and holiness. God wants us to be content. Matthew 6:33,' Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will given to you as well.' He will feed you, clothe you and grant you all your needs. Humble yourself in the hands of God and He will lift you up in due time! 

Finally, 'Dear friend, I pray that all may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well' - 3 John 2

Aim for spiritual wealth and and everything else will follow.

Light of the world!

The world we live in is filled with darkness. Often we turn a blind eye to what is happening around us. There is often no difference between right or wrong. People fall prey to making compromises. What once pricked our conscience fails to have any effect on us now. There is no place for guilt. Many have lost God-consciousness in their life. There are little things we do in our daily life without our knowledge that hurts others and above all God Himself. 

                                               Jesus is the light of the world. We need His light to see our stains. In Him there is no darkness. A small flame is enough to remove darkness. How much more the light of the living God! Darkness cannot prevail when Jesus is the light of our life. He throws His light on places where we fall and sin. He gives us His Holy Spirit who speaks with us with a gentle voice and shows us the way we should walk in. The Holy Spirit convicts us when we do something that displeases God. John 16:13 says, "But when He the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth..."

                                                 There might be a lot of darkness in your life. You may lock yourself up within a box, refusing to come out. Caught in the trap set by the devil. Always believing his lies that you have no place in the light. He is constantly trying to hold you in the darkness of the past, fear, regret, guilt, shame, depression and loneliness. But through Jesus we have dominion over sin! Isaiah 53:4,5 says, " Surely He took our pain and bore our suffering.. He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities: the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed..." 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, " God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."   

When you give your life to Jesus and believe that only He can set you free from all your bondage, sin can have no control over you. Confess and repent. Do not continue in sin. Wash yourself with the word of God everyday. The blood of Jesus will cleanse you from all your sins. Oh how we need Jesus! He fills us with the joy of salvation! He is the author of life! John 1:9 says that He is the true light that gives light to everyone. Colossians 1:13,14 says, "For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." 

According to 1 Peter 2:9, " You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." Let us live in His light to see us more clearly. Let us live in His light to shine His light on others. The light of God will outshine all darkness. Let us walk In the light of Jesus.

A leap of faith!

                                                Faith is being completely confident of what we hope for. Faith is believing that you receive, even before you do. Faith is believing that there is nothing too hard for the Lord. Faith is believing that God exists and rewards anyone who earnestly seek Him( Heb 11:6). Without faith it is impossible to please God(Heb 11:6). God wants us to have a child like faith. He wants us to put our absolute trust in Him. He wants us to take a giant leap of faith. There are several incidents from the bible where many have enjoyed the fruit of their faith. 

                                               She had been subjected to bleeding for 12 years. She spent all the money she had on pills and hospitals. She consulted numerous doctors. She was considered unclean. She once stood tall but now, frail. Her strength diminished day by day. Her lamp was about to be snuffed out. Her hopes of leading nothing more than just an ordinary life seemed to fade. Doctors could only feel sorry for her. They tried their best but she got worse every day. She had heard of Jesus. He restored sight. He made the deaf hear, the mute speak and even demons fled at His words!! "Surely, He could save me", she thought, "But, how will I step out? What if someone sees me? People look at me with disgust! I'm untouchable!" She was pushed to the edge of her life. She was standing between two mountains. A mountain of pain and a mountain of pure joy. There was a valley too deep in between. A valley of doubt, fear, shame and disappointment. Yet, this woman took a giant leap of faith. She was relentless. "If only I touch the hem of His garment, I will be healed", she said to herself. She gathered the little strength she had. She was afraid that someone might see her. She stepped out of her house. There was a huge crowd gathered around Jesus. How could she escape someone's eye? She got to her knees and she crawled. Like a crippled. She struggled yet persistent until she caught a glimpse of Jesus. She couldn't see His face. But, she could reach his cloak. This was the only hope she had. She knew that this was it. She knew that tomorrow will be a better day. She believed with all her heart, that she would be set free. She put all her trust in Jesus. She touched the edge of His cloak. The hem of His garment. At once, she realized she had never been so strong before. Tears of joy ran down her cheeks. She knew right away that her bleeding stopped. She was healed. She was restored. She had taken a leap of faith and landed on a mountain of joy. 

                                            Mark 9:23 says, ".. Everything is possible for one who believes" The world may say believe in yourself and you can do it. Faith in God does not mean that you believe in Him, 90% and believe in your own strength, 10%. No!! Phillipians 4:13, says" I can do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me". I'd like to interpret it this way. " I can do nothing without Christ who strengthens me!" Therefore put all your trust and hope in Jesus. That only He can help you overcome your battles. 

                                           Finally, John 20:29 says," Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." All those promises you received from God, your situations may tell you it's impossible. But God says, "Everything is possible for the one who believes!" Take a giant leap of faith today.

Commit and confess!

       

The moment you realise your sins, don't dwell in regret but run into the arms of God. When the world deserts you, calling you names, Jesus is right there by your side. None of your past mistakes determine your destiny with Him. There is power in the name of Jesus. There is salvation in the name of Jesus. There is no other name on heaven and earth greater than the name of Jesus.

                       Look at yourself in the eyes of God. Do you think God is pleased with you? 1 Peter 1:13 says, 'but just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written:"be holy, because I am holy"'. It could be something as small as your words. Do your words build or break? Are there secret sins? We think no one's watching but God is. Every second of every minute. It pains him to watch you hurt yourself. Lately did your peers talk you into addiction? You're so deep into it that you feel there's no way out. But the good news is, you can be set free. Confess your sins before God. Never repeat them. That's all it takes. Commit your life to God. Proverbs 28:13 says,' whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.' 

                         The sins that we've committed, stop God from working in our life. But when we confess and let it go, at that very instant God forgives us. Isaiah 1:18 says, "though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as Crimson, they shall be like wool." Not just that! He purifies us. He redeems us back. He cleanses us from all unrighteousness. He is faithful. He is just. He is slow to anger. He is rich in mercy. He is abounding in love. There's nothing too hard for Him. Don't remain in sin but remain in God. John 3:9 says, "no one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God".  

                     Don't let regret rule over you. Don't let your confidence in Christ be crushed. The devil might say you are doomed to destruction. But Jesus says 'believe in me and you will be saved' !! He didn't come to condemn you but to save you. John 3:17: ' for God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.'

John 9:28 says," so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him."

                     Heaven is so real! And so is hell! The one ticket to heaven is accepting Jesus Christ as your personal saviour. To believe in the truth that only He can free you from the clutches of sin and death. By doing exactly what He wants us to do. There is no other way but Jesus. The only way that leads to eternal life. A beautiful mansion is being made ready for u. Are u ready for it? Mathew 25:13 says, 'therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.' Jesus is coming back again! Let's live a life that's pleasing in His sight. Commit, confess and elude condemnation on the day when Jesus comes back ! Not as a lamb but as the lion of Judah. As a judge to save those who put their trust and faith in Him. To separate sheep from goats! To take you back with Him to heaven. To spend eternity with you. 

Trust In the Lord!

Trust. A word so often broken. You've been through so much in life and let down so many times that you're afraid to trust anyone, anymore. Maybe someone you held close to your heart. Someone who you thought would always be there when you needed them. Someone you could count on. Someone who promised to be with until your last breath. But then, one day, you realized they were but words. They disappeared from your life. You were left all alone. By yourself! Without a shoulder to lean on! Without a hand to hold! Without a shade in the sun! Without a roof in the rain! You were betrayed!

                            This is what happens when you trust in man(or woman). Broken promises. Empty words. You promise yourself not to trust anyone. You think you need nobody. You shut yourself to the world. You pretend to be strong outwards. Independent. But inside, you're a bruised reed. A smoldering wick. A dying flame. About to lose hope in life. And that is exactly where God finds you. He stretches His hands and takes you out of the deepest pit in your life. He pulls you out of this little box you're in. From the unstable shack you've built for yourself.           

                          Jesus says, 'Sweetheart, I'm right here for you. You can totally trust me. I'll be your refuge. I'll be your shelter. I love you more than words can express. My love ran red on the cross. Just for you. I left my kingdom on heaven and came to the earth just to save you. Trust me to trust your relationships. When you trust me, do you think I'll let anyone break your heart? Your trust? See, I made you. I know what's best for you. Leave it to me. Let me take the driver's seat. Trust me with all your heart, and I'll always be there to hold your hand. I'll walk with you till eternity. Haven't you heard? I'll never leave you nor forsake you. I won't let you go. Trust me, will you?' 

A ransom for many!

From the minute He came out of Mary's womb he needed oxygen to live. He needed food to get through the day. He needed water, when thirsty. He needed sleep, when tired. Jesus was Human to the very last detail!

                      The king of kings, the One who is the truth, the way and the life, chose to come down in human form. Jesus didn't chose to be a supernatural being. Like an angel with wings. His aim was not to be a superhero. He didn't want all the glam. He did not expect to be treated as a celebrity. He did not desire the high places among the honorable men in town. He did not want a throne. He didn't seek fame.

                      He came to seek those who were lost. To bring us out of darkness into light. He came to die like a mere mortal. Jesus sacrificed Himself on the cross just for you and me. He willingly gave Himself as an offering to atone for our sins. In Him we have the assurance of eternal life. Through The power of His resurrection at work within us we have the power and authority to overcome our weakness. 

                     He came just to serve us. Not to be served but to serve. He could've taken just the saints with Him to heaven 2000 years back and destroyed every sinner in the world. He could've created a new earth with just the holy people. But there was something that stopped Him from doing that. Something called love. Something called grace. Something called compassion. Yes. He came down not for the saints but for sinners like you and me. He doesn't want you to die. He longs to be with you. For eternity. He came down so that He may win you back. Jesus truly, deeply loves you! Serve Him now with all your heart, mind,soul and strength!

Find Life.

Mathew 16:24-27
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. 26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul ? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 27 For the Son of Man is going to come in His Father's glory with His angels, and then He will reward each person according to what they have done."

                       When Jesus came down to earth, although He was the Son of God Himself, He was human in every way. He never forgot the reason why He was sent. He went about doing His Father's business. When the soldiers came to arrest Him, He had all the power in Him to consume them by fire. He could've sent a great earthquake to swallow them up. But as a lamb is led to its slaughter, Jesus gave Himself to be sacrificed. He took up His cross. He died. So that you and I will not die, but have everlasting life.
                                       God doesn't expect us to physically sacrifice ourselves, rather, He wants us to be a living sacrifice. He wants us to start with little things. It could be giving up our spot in the queue for someone who needs it more than we do. To know the difference between our needs and wants. To put a smile on another person's face. To forgive. To be compassionate. To love. To be kind. There is a dearth of such people in this world. God wants you and I to be like that. To be like Jesus. We need to follow Jesus. Don't just stop with being a follower but take up your cross and be a disciple of Jesus.
                                        Let us set our eyes on what is above. Only when we do, we realize our purpose. Fix your eyes on Jesus. When you lose something for the sake of God, God will restore your losses in double measure. Forgive others because you are forgiven. Help one another, because your help comes from the Lord. Love one another, because Jesus loves you. Pray for one another, because Jesus continually intercedes for you. Put others before yourselves, because Jesus put you before Himself. Remember, your reward is in heaven!
                                       What does it mean to lose your life? Does it mean that you sell everything you own and give it to the poor and go on a pilgrimage? Perhaps. But not necessarily. There is an underlying meaning. It is the random act of kindness that you show to one another. To value others more than yourself. It is to reflect God's love in your life. We run behind something everyday. We chase our dreams. We struggle to have a good life. We strive to make ourselves happy. It's always about me, my family, my dreams. While running this race we forget about God's purpose for us. We forget God's plan for us. We work so hard in fulfilling our dreams, yet, without our knowledge, become less of God's dream for us.
                                        Living a life without Jesus, doesn't make sense. Without Jesus, even though we live, we are dead. You may have everything in this world, but deep down in your heart, there is a void that no one can fill. A hole deeper and darker than any black hole. A God shaped vacuum. Only Jesus can fill your heart. Only He can give you peace that is permanent. Only he can make you smile at the storms. Laugh at tomorrow. Jesus came so that you may have life and have it abundantly! Find Jesus. Find life! 
                 

For Good.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28(NIV)

When you love God with all your heart, all your mind, all your strength, then right from the smallest thing as silly as not waking up because your alarm did not go off, to the most painful and bitter experience in your life, has all happened together for your own good! There is a higher calling! A greater purpose! Remember, Jesus went through excruciating pain for you and me. It was you and I who deserved to be on that cross. He loves us and considers us too precious to be bought by silver or gold. That is the reason He bought us by shedding His own blood down to the last drop. That is how much He loves us.
                                         Often we ask,''Why has God let this happen to me?'' We may not have wronged anyone intentionally. We may have a good heart and be at peace with everyone around us. Yet, we get wounded. We get hurt. Life hits us hard. Let me remind you something. As long as Jesus was on earth, He went about doing good. Made the blind, see. Deaf, hear. Dumb, speak. Lame,walk. Dead, live. He restored healing. He set the captives free. He preached and lived a life of love. Yet, men spat on His face. He was humiliated. He was given a crown of thorns. He went through a death that even the greatest sinner was spared of. You and I would've been on that cross. Instead,it was Jesus. The sinless lamb of God!
                                         Through all of this He was not angry with God. He never complained. But thanks be to God, that because of the death of Jesus and the power of His resurrection you and I eluded our spot on the cross. Through Jesus, we have become more than conquerors, a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession. Whatever that has happened to you so far in your life, is going to work out for your own good at the end. You may not see it now. But there is a God above who is putting all the fine pieces of the puzzle together. You are being sculpted into a beautiful masterpiece! Your life is scripted by the Author of our Salvation!

Beauty of Grace!

8 1-2 Jesus went across to Mount Olives, but he was soon back in the Temple again. Swarms of people came to him. He sat down and taught them.

3-6 The religion scholars and Pharisees led in a woman who had been caught in an act of adultery. They stood her in plain sight of everyone and said, “Teacher, this woman was caught red-handed in the act of adultery. Moses, in the Law, gives orders to stone such persons. What do you say?” They were trying to trap him into saying something incriminating so they could bring charges against him.

6-8 Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger in the dirt. They kept at him, badgering him. He straightened up and said, “The sinless one among you, go first: Throw the stone.” Bending down again, he wrote some more in the dirt.

9-10 Hearing that, they walked away, one after another, beginning with the oldest. The woman was left alone. Jesus stood up and spoke to her. “Woman, where are they? Does no one condemn you?”

11 “No one, Master.”

“Neither do I,” said Jesus. “Go on your way. From now on, don’t sin.”

-John 8:1-11 (The Message Version)

They whisper to one another. They call you names. Sometimes in your face but often behind your back. Self righteous, Hypocrites, A brood of vipers, is what Jesus calls them(Matt 23:33). They lurk behind the corners, waiting to see you fall. Waiting to see you make mistakes. They are quick to judge. Unhesitating to condemn.They look at a speck in your eyes but are blinded to the plank in their own.

                    In this incident, the woman is a prostitute. Was she forced into it? No one knows. Why did she take it up? There are no answers. Did she do it for pleasure or was it for survival? They seldom cared. All they did was shame her in public. Cause her disgrace. They waited for this moment. They’ve rehearsed the lines. They hid near her house and waited till she let into her house, a man who was not her husband. The moment had finally arrived. She opened her house. She was caught in the act. Red-handed. They felt proud. A bunch of religious fanatics.

                    From young to old. They dragged her to Jesus. They knew the law. She must be stoned. To death. Each was waiting with a stone, ready to throw at her. Ready to heap accusations. The man she was with, walked free. Was he was one of them too? Was he was the bait? Did he lead them to her? Maybe. These men must have had a rush of adrenaline. They wanted to see what Jesus would say to all of this.How would He react? Will he obey the law of Moses? Will he let them have the pleasure to throw the stones at her? Will he let her bleed to death? Will he let them have a reward for their extremist behavior, for the sake of their religion?

            They questioned Him. They could wait no longer. But Jesus, was silent. He bent down and was writing in the dirt. They wouldn’t stop. They kept at it. Heaping accusation upon accusation. Condemnation upon condemnation. They kept on questioning Him. He went about doing good(Acts 10:38), what would He do now? In Him there is no sin(Gal 5:21), will He put up with this woman? Shouldn’t He rain down fire and consume her for what she has done. Shouldn’t He kill her right away? Why wait? They kept retelling her offence. The woman went through excruciating pain. She was sure she would die. She trembled with fear. She couldn’t take her eyes off the stones. She cried. Her hands covered her face. Between her fingers, her eyes  moved between the stones and Jesus. Fear gripped her. Everyone, from young to old, kept saying, “Stone her!!”.

                  But,Jesus! He finally broke His silence. He looked up. “The one who is without sin, go ahead. Throw the first stone at her”, He said. The woman was thunderstruck! Those who passed judgement on her, dropped the stones, the moment they heard these words from Jesus. First the elders, then, the young. Until no one was left. Except Jesus and the woman herself. Among all of them, the only one who had all the authority, the all holy, the one in whom no sin or blame or guilt is found was Jesus. But Jesus,with his finger in the dirt, continued to write. I could imagine him writing this word: GRACE. He looked at her and said, “Neither do I condemn you, from now on do not sin.” She was forgiven.

                Sure, she deserved death. All of us do. You and me. We all have sinned. We all, have fallen short of God’s glory. There is no one who does good. No. Not even one(Romans 3:10-12). But Jesus, does not condemn. He does not accuse. He does not remind you of your mistakes.

               Romans 8:1,2 says,”Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” 

Jesus does not condemn you and me. When we are in Jesus, sin has no control over us. We are set free. It is no longer by law that we are saved. Not by our righteous acts. But by His grace. That is beauty of grace! Jesus can set you free from your secret sins. Jesus can take them all away. Lay your baggage of sins at His feet. The mistakes of your past will not haunt you anymore. Jesus won’t condemn. He won’t criticize. Jesus loves you!

I John 1:9,10 says, “9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.”

Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

The absence of our condemnation doesn’t mean the approval of our sins. Let us confess our sins and find grace from God. He bore the punishment for our sins. He took our place. We are set free in Christ! Let us leave our sins at His feet. He is faithful and just to forgive them and lead us in a life free from sin and death. An eternal life awaits you in Jesus Christ today! The Beauty of Grace!

Your strength over my weakness!

My Prayers, unanswered.

My Hope, so frail.

My Strength, decreased.

Yet, Your love never failed!

My dreams, crushed.

My joys, lost.

My pain, increased.

But, my battles, you fought! 

My trust, broken.

My heart, wounded.

My life, shaken.

Now, my burdens, you've taken! 

Joy, inexplicable.

Love, eternal.

Peace, unending. 

In Jesus I found, In Him forever!