Suffering and pain touch everyone. At times life can seem like an endless cycle of hopelessness. All people, even those that claim that Jesus is the source of hope amidst the struggles, still suffer. They still struggle. They still die. So, what's the point of it all? Can Jesus really make a difference?
Consider the brokenness that invades your life – those things that cause guilt, shame, grief, and regret. They exist because of a condition called sin – sin separates you from God and robs you of peace, comfort and hope you desperately crave. And no matter how hard you try, just like you couldn't save yourself from drowning, there isn't anything you can do to make things right again on your own . That's where Jesus comes in.
Jesus knows the misery you feel. Jesus makes the difference at that very point – when your pain intersects your cry for help. Jesus is God's answer to that cry.
Jesus took the punishment you deserve. Imagine being in a courtroom and you are about to be sentenced to death, and in walks Jesus and He says “Whatever sentence you were going to give them, give to Me instead.” That's exactly what Jesus has done for you. He has died in your place and you have received love that you didn't deserve which is what is called grace.
| Four gifts of grace you receive through Christ are… | |
| 1) | From Guilt è Forgiveness (John 8:10-11) Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." John 8:10-11 |
| 2) | From Bondage è Freedom (John 8:34-36) |
| 3) | From Isolation è Friendship (John 15:13-14) Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. John 15:13-14 |
| 4) | From Emptiness è Fullness (John 10:10 and John 1:16) |
Because of all this, you can have the comfort of knowing that you are at peace with God and the certainty that He provides you with the strength to cope with guilt, shame, grief, and regret.
| And because of what Jesus has done for you… | |||
| your past is forgiven… | |||
| your present can be lived with confidence… | |||
| and your future is guaranteed! | |||
For all who believe in Jesus, an everlasting world – without suffering, sin and death – is assured. This glorious place called heaven is where you will see Jesus face to face.
That's the difference Jesus makes!
If you have become aware of the Good News of Jesus for the first time as you have read this, God's Spirit is calling you and moving you to turn to Him. He wants to forgive you and renew your life. The eternal life Jesus gives means knowing personally the God who gives Lasting Love and Confidence for everyday life. He also promises to take you to His glory on the Last Day. By His power, will you receive Him now?
| Consider praying this prayer from your heart now: | |
Dear Jesus, |
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Please let us know if you prayed this prayer. We want to celebrate what God has done in your life as you receive New Life in Christ. We also want to walk alongside you as you grow in your faith and walk with Him.
If you have questions or concerns you would like help with, please call or write and let us know. We're here to help you understand the love that Jesus is offering you for free, no matter who or where you are. E-mail Peter.