Blessed be GOD, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the GOD of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of GOD. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. (2Co 1:3-7)
In this sinful and broken world we will suffer, either by those things which happen to all because the whole creation is cursed under the weight of sIn, or because GOD proves and tests His own to conform us to the image of His dear Son. While GOD can and does, according to His will, deliver us from evil, He also brings us through the flood and the fire, that we might grow in Him through His Word and His work in us, until He brings us Home to be with Him.
Until that glorious day when we are ushered into the presence of our Lord, we have work to do, not to earn anything, but because of His love toward us and our love for Him. Because of the mercy He showed us, we are to extend mercy to others, in ministering and missions to those who are hurting and in need. Because of the Grace that is shed abroad in our hearts, we are to disciple one another in His Word, with grace and love, that we all may grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Because of His love, commended toward us on the Cross of Calvary, we who have received Him by faith in His finished and perfect work on that Cross are to go with the Gospel, and as we go, make disciples with the Good News of Jesus Christ, that those who believe in Him and repent of their sins might have life in His Name.
For GOD is not willing that any should perish, but that all would come to repentance and the knowledge of the Truth. Jesus loves you and wants to establish a covenant relationship with you that is real and personal. Surrender to Him on His terms and He will give you a brand new life of discipleship and fellowship with Him that is abundant and everlasting. GOD calls you to trust Him and what He has already done for you to pay your sIn debt. He has provided the only way of reconciliation with GOD with forgiveness and Salvation through Jesus Christ, the Son of GOD who is GOD the Son, to give you a new life in Christ. Turn away from yourself and your sIn and turn to Him alone for eternal Life, now and always.
In Christ,
Jefferson Sweet