Middle Creek Lake in Lancaster County, PA
This sample training post was written by Stephen C. Weber of Daily Encouragement Net and friend of the Mancini’s.
“The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness’” (Jeremiah 31:3). “God has said, never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:5,8).
As we begin 2009 I want to share a special message of hope and assurance. I consider the various burdens and uncertainties so many of you are dealing with. In some cases Brooksyne and I can visualize who you are and the situations you struggle with. As we get to know you and you share your lives with us we will be even more aware
At creation God established the annual unit of time (Genesis 1:14). The passing of years is a great time to do some reflecting as well as looking ahead to the next phase in our life’s journey. We each look back to milestones this past year and for some they’re more significant than others. In my case this was the year my Mom ended her earthly journey so that’s a major passage for me as well. Generationally I realize am the next to go.
Some of you look ahead to 2009 with a temporal optimism; in your life things are going well and you feel secure. Your health’s good, job seems secure, life is good for you. But others face the new year with a great sense of uncertainty. You may be dealing with a health issue, a job transition or some other form of distress. Today’s message is for both.
Settle deep in your spirit that our one and only certain source of hope is Jesus Christ. He alone is an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. This is expressed so well in the great hymn “The Solid Rock” in the line, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”
Three realities regarding the world:
* The “world” hates us.
* The “world” abandons us.
* The “world” is constantly changing its views and values.
Three verses that express three, unchangeable truths concerning God that contrast to these realities:
* He loves us with an everlasting love.
* He will never leave us.
* He is always the same.
As we ground our faith in these truths we can, regardless of our temporal condition, experience the hope, peace and assurance that is at the very core of living an abundant life.
The song “Jesus Will Still Be There” that has a very fitting theme for beginning a new year. We are reminded of a most certain reality; that Jesus will still be there. His love will never change, no matter what changes around us. As we end one year and move into another He is a never-changing Presence in our lives. We can absolutely rely upon Him!
Hear the song here. Video
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Wonderful post,thanks for the all true encouraging words.And I hope whatever you are dealing with that God will give you Peace that passes all understanding,as you hold to God’s unchanging hands.Love in Christ Numbers 6:24~26