Be Not Afraid For Christ Is With Me & I Will Welcome Him With Open Arms

John 6: 16-21
Jesus Walks on Water
This is the passage where Jesus walks across the lake towards the boat to meet up with his disciples. Jesus calls out to his terrified disciples reminding them to not be afraid for he is here. Upon his arrival, the boat reaches its destination.

I am reminded that Jesus also tells me to "not be afraid, for he is here" with me always - to lift me up and to encourage me, to give me hope and to wisdom in times of need. When he is near, the end, his light, is not that far away.  So I pray Father that you will continue to light this path for me. I know that you love me and will bring me great joy and peace.

1 Timothy 4: 7-11
Warnings Against False Teachers (cont'd)
This passage reads 'Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and  old wives' tales.'  We are to spend our time in 'spiritual fitness', equipping ourselves for the evil one in this lifetime and ensuring we spend our next one in God's presence. 'We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Saviour of all people, and particularly of those who believe. Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. (10,11)'

God is telling me to spend my time wisely.  Don't debate and dwell on things that are of no value, especially spiritual value.  As God's children, we too will suffer and will need to work hard.  This is a part of God's purpose for us. It will be in these moments that God will reveal himself to us.  We need to open our "eyes" and let Him in, for He will be knocking.  God doesn't force himself into our lives, he wants to be welcomed in...

Satan is ever present.  We need to be on the look out for false or "watered-down: versions of the gospel.  There will be preachers and pastors out there who are misled.  God only forgives those who repent.  There is always a consequence for our actions.  If you believe in Heaven, there must alse be Hell.

Father, I pray that you will continue to reveal yourself to me and my husband, especially my husband.  I pray that he will open the door to his heart wide and welcome you with open arms.  At this moment, he hears your knock and he has looked through the peep hole.  He has removed the chain link and opened the door a crack, recognizing it is you.  Yet he is hesitating for he is scared to endure anymore pain and suffering.  So Father I pray for you strength, wisdom and words of encouragement so that he may fully accept you again and be a faithful servant and warrior for your cause, sharing his truth about your compassion and grace with all others. Amen.