Forgiven 11.08.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are completing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 19-21 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online.
If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2019-21&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection; Jesus' appearing before His disciples; and Peter reaffirming his allegiance with Jesus. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that although we often fail we can can rejoice knowing that my the mercy and grace of Jesus we are sinless before God. His death, burial, and resurrection saved us all from the guilt and shame of sin.

It was the first day of the week after the death and burial of Jesus, Mary Magdalene arose and went to the sepulchre of Joseph of Arimathea that Jesus was placed in. "The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the LORD out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him..........Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you." (John 20:1-2,19-21). The Savior arose and with His Resurrection dawned a new and victorious day for the human race.

At first the people questioned Jesus as even His disciples had doubts that He was the Savior. "But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the LORD. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God." (20:24-28).

Like the disciples, many Christians become defeated because of some sin or being a doubter like Thomas, or they fear that Jesus may condemn instead of comfort, or fear that they may not be good enough, or fear what a hostile world will say or do. Such fears cause many to withdraw instead of draw closer to Him.

Christ knows our sorrows, our sufferings, and our fears. But, we can be certain that His grace is sufficient, regardless of circumstances. Without question, the Lord has a perfect plan and beyond our sorrows or failures, He has provided a glorious resurrection for all who will let Him be Lord of their lives. Just as Jesus forgave His disciples He also forgives us and will not leave nor forsake anyone that calls upon Him.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You reign over all the earth and You also reign in my heart! What an awesome blessing this truth brings to me today. As I consider that it is not by my might, nor by my power but by the Spirit of the Lord of Hosts that my personal mountains are removed. Jesus, I know that many of the mountains I face are not just blown away by a simple prayer of faith, but these mountains are often the very essence of how You work through my life to reveal Your faithfulness and Your power in the midst of my struggles. You develop godly character as I am challenged to remain steadfast and faithful in my Christian walk. You make my feet like hind’s feet and You make me to walk upon high places. Help me to keep my gaze continually upward during the climb so that I see You reigning on Your throne as I bring You glory and honor! In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
God Bless you,
Christina

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