A Wonderful Life!

Life behind bars can be difficult at times - especially for Christian men of faith who, in Christ, are called to set apart from the world. It was a blessing to read the words Jesus spoke concerning the life He came to give who put their faith in Him. In John 10:10 Jesus said “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (ESV)

I reminded the men that although the Christian life is characterized by challenges, setbacks, disappointment, sickness, sin, grief, loss, and troubles of all sorts, Jesus has given believers a life that is wonderful!

By definition the word wonderful means exceptionally good, marvelous, often evoking joy or admiration. I affirm that the Christian life is exceptionally good, marvelous, often evoking joy or admiration!

This “life” Jesus refers to is eternal and spiritual life that comes from God the moment the believer places his faith Jesus Christ. From than moment, the believer receives the Holy Spirit who enables him to experience the “abundant” blessings that flow from knowing Jesus though genuine and intimate fellowship that involves obedience to His teachings and making His purpose our purpose, His desires our desires, and His life our life.

Jesus wants every believer to have this life abundantly- that is, exceedingly, beyond measure, considerably more than what one would expect or anticipate! This abundance is not a abundance of material things, but spiritual blessings and spiritual joy both now and after the resurrection!

All believers are promised eternal life but not all are living their life abundantly. Many Christians are living as Porter Barrington says “ beneath your privilege” if you are a believer and not enjoying the abundance of resources and blessings that Jesus offers daily!

The Christian life is not always easy, but praise be to God, that is Christ, it is always wonderful!

As usual, it was good to see new faces in our worship service!

With Love and Blessings,

Pastor James