In reading from the book of John this morning one verse struck me to the point that I kept repeating it in my mind, "these (accounts) are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name."
It is what we all want: life. But life is more than what we see, more than this air we breath, more than our days on this dusty earth. True life is peace in the storm, joy in the desolate, and love to the unlovely. This is the life that satisfies the depths of our souls.
This life can only be found in Jesus because that is how we were designed. God created us with the freedom to choose, moment by moment, where our devotions will lie. We inevitably choose self rather than submitting to His will. That is why we need a savior. One who can make us righteous before a holy God, cleansing us from our selfish desires, and empowering us to walk in victory.
John tells us to believe two things: Jesus is the Christ and Jesus is the Son of God. The first truth points to the fulfillment of prophecy. Hundreds and even thousands of years before Jesus was born as a baby in Bethlehem, it is estimated that over 300 prophecies were spoken about both his life and death. He is the fulfillment of promise. He is the Christ, the promised Redeemer. Believe.
Jesus is also the Son of God. Though our minds have trouble fully digesting this truth, Jesus is God in the flesh. He is the God-man. This is why the Jews wanted him dead--he claimed to be divine. He fully submitted to the Father's will even to the point of death for the sin of mankind. He was a perfect sacrifice. His name is above all names, His power greater than all principalities, and His rights are to everything. He can be trusted. Believe.
I am compelled. This Jesus has given me life. When everything surrounding you seems confusing, our God is not confused. Our Father has provided a way to be made whole--His name is Jesus. Believe and have life.
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