The following column is an opinion piece and reflects the views of only the author and not those of The Georgia Virtue.
By: Dr. William F. Holland Jr., minister, chaplain, and author of the column series ‘Living on Purpose’. You can read more about the Christian life and see other works by Dr. Holland at billyhollandministries.com.
Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and he desires to spend quiet time with you. Our heavenly Father beckons us to draw near to him as he longs to be with His children. As we go about our busy day, many times we do not realize his presence but nevertheless, he is there. May we listen with our ears, watch with our eyes, and be aware of our thoughts as God is always trying to communicate with us. The Lord of compassion gives us breath and every heartbeat as a gift of his endless mercy and grace. He cares about our disappointments and heartaches because he loves us more than anything.
Time on earth is short, here today gone tomorrow, but eternity will last forever. Each person has a spirit, and every spirit will either live forever with God or forever without Him. Jesus was born into this world, was crucified, and rose from the dead so that whoever believes in Him can be spiritually born again. His blood paid our ransom and forgives our sins. Christ, the spotless lamb of God willingly gave His life and now is waiting for someone to give their heart to Him. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life and those who embrace Him as Lord, are transformed and prepared to be a vessel of honor. As our heavenly Father is preparing our home in heaven, as we live, love, and trust in Christ, the solid Rock of our salvation.
God created you as a unique, one-of-a-kind individual. There is not another person like you. He drew a blueprint for each person to follow and wants to intervene, inspire and empower us to accomplish His plans. It is not about our will, but His will be done. The question is who will do what He says and love Him for who He is? In this journey, you will have tribulations and trials, but do not be afraid because greater is He that lives in you, than he who lives in the world. Our heavenly Father is in total control and has complete authority over all powers and principalities. His angels are all around you and He never takes His eyes away from you.
Within our mission and calling, there are two great commandments above all others; love God, and love one another as ourselves. If we choose to take up our cross and follow the Savior, we will live in the peace and joy of His presence. He is holy and desires that we have a clean heart so that we can walk closely with Him. Forgive those who have trespassed against you and sincerely pray for them as this will set you free. Holding on to resentment and hatred is a snare trap and will make our hearts hard and cold. Be humble, give your anxieties and fears to Jesus and He will give you rest. Demonstrate His light of forgiveness and compassion that you may dwell in the secret place of the Most High.
God knows our pain and sees every tear. You are His precious child. Trade your bitterness and sorrow for His joy that is unspeakable and filled with his glory. It is in loving and giving that you will find true contentment. Offer up your fervent prayers and burdens for the souls that are lost and hurting. When you reach out to help those in need, you are reaching out to the Lord. Jesus is the Bread of Life and He is the living water. Those who come to Christ will never be spiritually hungry or thirsty again.
Always know that God’s promises cannot fail. Lean not on your own understanding but believe that your steps are ordered by the Lord. There are times the way will grow dark and will seem as though you are walking through the valley of death, but fear no evil. Remember, you are fighting in a war that has already been won. His word is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. Run into the name of the Lord and rejoice that you are safe and secure. Jesus is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. He is the Almighty God that considers you his highest treasure. He will never leave you or forsake you, he has engraved you on the palms of his hands.
