Thursday, April 19, 2012

Christ, the object of our pursuit.

     And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
     Hebrews 11:6 ESV.

     Many individuals seek God. they seek Him to meet needs, they seek Him to provide things, they seek His forgiveness. Many of these needs are legitimate. In fact we are to bring our needs to God, and trust Him to provide for us. Ample scriptures can be found to encourage us to come to God with our cares and burdens.
     However, I believe that far too often we neglect the greatest pursuit of all. We tend to seek our needs. We seek the gift, not the giver. This verse speaks of drawing near to God, seeking Him. We are to believe that He will reward those who seek Him. Our greatest need, and the greatest blessing we can obtain, is the presence of Christ Himself. To walk with Him, and dwell with Him, to live as it were in the very holy of holies itself.
     Let's begin to pursue God Himself, not for what He can do for us, but for the sake of knowing Him deeper. That is true relationship!


Sunday, April 8, 2012

Christ is Risen!

     And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.
     1 Cor. 15:14 NIV


     The resurrection of Jesus has a profound impact upon our lives. Because Jesus is risen from the dead, we cave freedom from the guilt of sin. We can stand before Him on the day of judgement and be declared not guilty. We do not need to fear death. We too will be raised on that day, and will receive new bodies that will not decay.
     There is power in this life as well. Because Christ arose, we can walk in newness of life. The power of sin is broken. We can live in victory, we can seek the things above where Christ is. We have been quickened by the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead. We have life on this earth, an abundant life lived in communion with God.
      Our broken fellowship with Him is now restored. We who were once aliens to God and His covenant are now brought in and have become His children!
     Live like you believe Christ is truly risen!