Day 11: Thursday, December 19, 2024
“God showed how much He loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through Him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.” – 1 John 4:9-11 (NLT)
Wow! Isn’t it incredible how much Jesus loves us? Sometimes it’s hard to wrap my head around it because, in the external world, all I see is brokenness. That’s why I have to remind myself to focus on the internal and fix my eyes on the Cross every day.
I’m SO thankful for Jesus! He’s always there, and His love is constant and unchanging. I want to encourage you today: Jesus is real! You can feel His love, sense His presence, and even hear Him speak to you.
Growing up, I thought saying the salvation prayer was all there was to faith. I figured, I’m saved, so I’m going to Heaven—that’s it. But one day, I went to a Bible study with my mom and my Mimi. During the study, the teacher said something that changed everything: You can have a relationship with God. He can speak to you, and once you encounter Him, your life will never be the same.
Those words stirred something deep inside me. After that night, I began seeking God with all my heart. I spent a season locked in my room, cutting back on distractions and friends, just to get to know Him better. It was in that season that I first felt His presence, His love, and heard Him speak to me. That time with Jesus was beautiful and life-changing.
If you don’t yet have a relationship with Jesus, I want to encourage you to start today. Let me lead you in a prayer to invite Him into your life. Just know that this is only the beginning—there’s so much more to experience with Him.
Dear Jesus,
I admit that I am a sinner and have fallen short of Your righteousness. Please forgive my sins! I believe that You died on the cross and rose again three days later to take my sins away. Jesus, I love You, and I’m ready to give You my life and my heart. Thank You for giving me eternal life. Jesus, take over!
In Jesus name, I pray, AMEN!
Now that you’ve prayed, go lock in with Jesus. Spend time getting to know Him and building your relationship with Him. A great place to start is by reading the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—so you can learn about His life and teachings. And don’t forget to pray! Jesus will meet you right where you are.
Today’s Faith and Fitness Challenge: Take a walk and ask Jesus to shower you with His love and presence. Let your steps be a time of prayer and reflection on His incredible love for you.
For more resources, including our full Advent guide, visit shiftworthyministries.com.
Comments