Good morning! Let’s keep pursuing Jesus! There is a quote from Billy Graham – “The ground is level at the foot of the cross.” We all have the same opportunity to have a personal relationship with God because of the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus and the person of the Holy Spirit who lives in each person who has accepted Jesus as Lord to bring new life!!
“For you [who are born-again have been reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified and] are all children of God [set apart for His purpose with full rights and privileges] through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union with the Christ, the Anointed] have clothed yourselves with Christ [that is, you have taken on His characteristics and values]. There is [now no distinction in regard to salvation] neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you [who believe] are all one in Christ Jesus [no one can claim a spiritual superiority]. [Rom 3:22; 1 Cor 12:13] And if you belong to Christ [if you are in Him], then you are Abraham’s descendants, and [spiritual] heirs according to [God’s] promise.”
Galatians 3:26-29 Amplified
The Bible tells us, “for ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) And God “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4)
Earlier this year, we went to the Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association – Day of Jazz. Joshua played the alto saxophone in the Pat Med District Jazz Band and it was an opportunity for him to play and be critiqued with the intention of learning and growing. I keep encouraging him to challenge himself, keep practicing, put in the effort, and he will continue to get better!
The same encouragement can be applied by each one of us in our relationship with God!
Challenge yourself – put yourself in situations that force you to grow.
Keep practicing – stay consistent in reading God’s Word, praying, worshipping, etc…
Put in the effort – Work hard, try different ways to grow (devotionals, journaling, scripture memory).
Let’s all make the last half of this year a season that none of us will ever forget because of how much we grew in our relationship with God and how much He has transformed our lives! I am here to support and pray for all of you!
Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunity that You have provided for each one of us to know You personally. Help us to do what’s necessary to prioritize our relationship with You and allow You full reign over our hearts and minds! In Jesus Name – AMEN!
Be Transformed 