Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” (Phil 4:8) In other words, we are to dwell in God’s Word daily and follow Jesus Christ in all we do. But many folks living in the United States, yes the United States, do not have the saving knowledge of Jesus.
Do you know someone who does not know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior? It’s surprising how many people in the United States have heard about Jesus, but have never stepped inside a church, nor have they had anyone tell them about Him.
One of our parishioners recently gave her testimony during the Women’s Ministries Tea and in a church service where she stated she grew up in a good home with both parents, brothers and sisters, a family pet, had a good education, but never knew much about Jesus. She had heard His name, but, for example, when she was randomly asked who the mother of Jesus was by a classmate, she had no idea. She had seen the Nativity scenes at Christmas, but never knew the saving message behind the image.
Or perhaps you have known someone who has followed Jesus at one time in their life, but has “fallen away?” They have started to hang with a crowd of folks who don’t go to church and have adopted a lifestyle which counters how Jesus has taught us to live?
Make this 2017 New Year count by following the wisdom of Paul. He told us to dwell on the rich and honorable elements of the Christian life. If you do, those who do not know Jesus and those who have chosen to adopt a lifestyle and mindset opposite of what the Bible teaches, will see your light. You can start to make your friends and loved one who need to jump aboard the Christian life, a matter of daily prayer. As you dwell in the presence of Jesus, your life will have purpose and direction. You will make a difference in someone else’s life, too.
So this New Year, choose to dwell in God’s Word. Make Jesus every part of every day and every thought. If you haven’t given your life to Him, now is the time. If you are not “right” with Jesus, now, more than ever, is the time to rekindle your relationship with Him!
It’s not too late to jump on board!
