Pastor's Notes
April 2016
back to Pastor's Notes IndexLet’s Really Live! (part 2)
It is intriguing, that while we call ourselves people of The Book, we seem so willing to live out our lives without applying many of the essential truths that it declares. While I realize that may sound harsh or even judgmental, I assure you it is not meant to be either.
In his book “Heart of the Problem”, Henry Brandt asks this question. “Why are Christians not in the least embarrassed over the absence of peace and rest in their lives”? That is a valid question. Just look around you, in fact it would benefit us to look within. What do you see in others? What is your heart declaring to you?
“I’m worried” |
or |
“I’m unafraid” |
“I’m anxious” |
or |
“I’m untroubled” |
“I’m angry” |
or |
“I’m at peace within and without” |
“I’m unhappy” |
or |
“I’m cheerful” |
Listen to the Word!
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. ~ John 16:33 NLT
I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.” ~ John 16:33 The message
I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] ~ John 16:33 AMPC
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. ~ John 14:27 NLT
I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught. ~ John 14:27 The Message
Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] ~ John 14:27 AMPC
Jesus clearly intends for us to live out our lives accepting, utilizing and enjoying His Gift of Peace.
Are we living in troublesome times? Absolutely!
Are we really the people of The Book we claim to be?
That truly is a valid question and one that calls for our immediate attention.