Good morning, dear friends. It is Wednesday, Nov. 18. I haven't posted in some time. I have a little bit of encouragement for you today, as I have been just reading and praying lately, pressing in and refocusing.
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
Ephesians 4:4-7
as I was soaking in that yesterday morning, the Lord spoke this to me:
"I don't love you based on what you do, but who you are. You are My child, adopted by faith into a family- that family, in heaven and earth is comprised of those that believe. You are always part of the family, once you believe. You are sealed by My Spirit for the day of redemption, which you now long for, as do many. Be patient, because there are others yet to be adopted, as you were. They will be family, too. Watch and listen- pray and move as I lead. I love you, son. Always."
I don't know if He speaks to you like this or not. He always has to me. Still, small voice, resonating inside, bringing comfort, instruction, correction. After 37 years I am still amazed.
This morning, He led me to 2 Peter 3, and I almost groaned, because I have shared from there a lot, but now I know why- confirmation of His word to me:
The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering (patient and compassionate) toward us, not willing that any should perish (be utterly destroyed, without God), but that all should come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9
Friends, we all remember John 3:16, even unsaved people can quote it. But do you remember John 3:17?
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved."
The mission hasn't changed. But salvation isn't automatic. When we believe, in our hearts. When God believes that we believe, then we are adopted into His family, and sealed till the day of redemption. Glory to God, friends.
God richly bless you today. We love you ALL dearly.
Preecher
