Clinging to Jesus...

As all of you know I love to take pictures of anything and everything.  I took the one on the right the other day and knew that I had taken one a year or two ago.  What a difference between the two, granted it was not in perfect condition back then, but it looked clean and livable and inviting.  After years of being in the weather the paint is almost gone and the decorative trim is missing.  This summer the rose bush has taken up residence with it’s thorns and briers. 

I couldn't help but look at these two pictures and wonder about our Christian walk.  When we first accept Jesus into our lives and we began our walk with him, we are not perfect, but we feel alive.  We feed on His Word and try to surround ourselves with Christian friends.  That is one reason it is so important to find a Bible Believing Church. 

‘Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.’     Hebrews 10:25

We need to continue to be fed spiritually.  We need to hide His Word in our heart and grow closer to Him as we grow spiritually.

‘But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  To him be glory both now and for ever.  Amen’     2 Peter 3:18

Life is not promised to be easy without trials and problems.  But we have a promise; if we will continue to praise Him through our hard times He will be there with us.

‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’     Matthew 11:28-30

‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.’     Psalm 46:1

What promises these are!  He will take our problems, whether it be health, financial, any problem especially sin that keeps creeping into our lives and He will be there for us.  He will help us spiritually and physically.  It is so important for Jesus to be first in our lives.  When He is, the world will not crowd him out, nor thorns choke Him out.

‘And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.’     Mark 4:18-19

So how does your Christian walk look?  Does Jesus have first place in your life or are you like that second picture, getting overrun by things of this world?  Something to think about huh?

until next time...nel