Month: April 2020

How are You Doing?

When someone asks how we’re doing during the continued lockdown, we might say “fine” but really mean frustrated. As Christians, we’re supposed to keep a stiff upper lip and quote all the right verses, like “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)

In reality, we might really feel like saying, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?” (Psalm 43:5 NIV)

As the Corona crisis drags on, God continues to get our attention. If we are feeling discouraged, cold, fearful, anxious or uncertain, it’s the right time to run to Jesus. Pain has a way of showing us our helplessness. We can’t fix ourselves. And this is where we’re living right now.

What does God want to change in your life? Are you willing to let him?

God’s Word is filled with treasures for you at this time. Pour over chapters and passages, seeking God in it all. He’s there. It’s his living Word.

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 NIV)

God might want to do some character surgery on you, working in your soul, spirit, thoughts, attitudes and heart. And that takes time. However, when you emerge, you’ll feel brand new. You will have been pressed on by God himself.

When this season comes to a close, I want to be a different person. I want God to have worked permanent change in my heart through his Word. His living Word. I know I have to spend hours in my Bible for that to happen. It’s my choice.

Have you had a mini-retreat with God since the lockdown began? There are a lot of good things you can do with your time, but none better than being with Jesus and in his Word.

Soon, we will emerge on the other side of the Corona crisis. You still have time to invest in your most important relationship before the rushed life resumes. Don’t miss this opportunity.

I’d love to hear what God is showing or teaching you these days? Comment here or email me at jon@yourlifewithgod.com.

Take time to download my new book so you can maximize your time with God. There are five experiences inside that will help draw you closer to Jesus. Download it at www.GetFreshFaith.com. And share the link with your friends.

April 8, 2020 Jfuglerwriter Comments Off on Good News in Trying Times

Good News in Trying Times

I’m no theologian, but my ears perked up this morning when I read the final chapter of 2 Peter. Here’s one gem of a verse:

“In keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 2:13 NIV)

I read that verse as I was sitting on my back deck surrounded by gigantic North Carolina trees. I looked up and saw the beauty of God’s creation. I looked down and re-read the words “new earth.” All I could think was that this is a taste of what God’s new earth will look like when all is said and done.

And I’ll get to live in it!

The absolute beauty of the new earth is something beyond my imagination, but that will be my residence. I can’t wait.

In this season of global crisis, we need to go straight to God’s Word to soak in his truths. When we do, our hearts and minds rise above the circumstances. Even dire ones like we are in now.

Here’s what we can look forward to . . .

All sin, destruction, pain, death, sorrow, hatred and conflict will be gone. The new earth will have none of that. Instead, we’ll enjoy the fullness of Father, the presence of Jesus, the fullness of the Holy Spirit, the marvelous beauty of God’s creation, green trees, vast oceans, crystal clear skies, majestic mountains and whatever else God throws in.

The colors will be perfect, the smells ideal, the sights awesome. And relationships? Every one of them will be perfect. Rich. Satisfying. We will enjoy this new earth in every way.

Righteousness will dwell in the new heaven and new earth. Whether I’ll commute between the two, I’m not sure. Righteousness will fill it.

A lot has been written about the new heaven and new earth. You should read up on it. Of course, you’ll read a variety of opinions, so the Bible is the place to go to get a taste of what God has in store for you. You don’t have to know all the details. You’ll marvel with just a taste.

I hope this encourages you in these trying times.

(My new book is available: FRESH FAITH: Leaning on God in the Corona Crisis. It’s Free. You can get it HERE.

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