Oct 28, 2022
Since before the world was created, God has had a master plan to deliver people from evil. He cared for us so much that he was willing to endure pain to redeem us. In Acts 14:20, we read about Jesus and the disciples preaching in a city called Derbe. It says that Jesus then was busy, strengthening the souls of his disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations, we must enter the kingdom of God.
God wants us to know that the journey we are on ends with a destination. And along the journey, we must be prepared to endure hardship for his sake. His compassion for the whole world is summed in maybe the most famous verse in all scripture, John 3:16. It says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” And that's it. That's the whole point of living this Christian life. It isn't complicated in terms of understanding. But it can be hard to live out.
There are currently 7.4 billion people on the planet, and most have not received Christ. Many have not even heard of Him yet, hard as that is to believe. There is still a lot of work to be done.
700 years before Jesus, the prophet Isaiah saw God's throne in a vision. And the Lord said there, “Who can we send? Who will go for us?” Isaiah eagerly said, “Here I am. Send me.” This is the willing heart God is looking for. We live in this world, with all its misery and beauty and chaos and harmony. We are to share the Good News of Jesus. If we do that from a willing heart, God is faithful to use our efforts to advance his kingdom, and that is our purpose.
Would you pray with me?
Father God, your great plan from the beginning is right on schedule. It's always on schedule. We love you. Nothing and no one stops you from accomplishing your will. See us through to the end, Lord, that we can accomplish your will for our lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.