Endless Blessings – November 12, 2023

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

Endless Blessings

God created the first people perfectly. They were more than free from defects or handicaps; they were completely holy and pure—like God himself. It was God’s wonderful will to have them live in his presence to enjoy his great favor and experience his endless blessings.

But sin entered the scene. Disobedience brought separation from God and fear of his judgment. Though deserving, God did not appoint sinners to suffer wrath. He did not want sinners to be condemned and suffer eternally. Rather, it was his deepest desire that they spend eternity with him.

So, God sent his Son into the world to rescue people from their sins against him. Jesus was born like us—a true human being. But unlike us, he had no sin. In the greatest act of love that this world has ever seen, Jesus willingly took on the guilt of everyone’s sin. He placed himself under the judgment of God in place of us. He died and paid in full the penalty of sin for us all.

Now all who trust in him as their Savior have no fear of eternal wrath, only everlasting life with God. Be encouraged by this tremendously good news and encourage others with it, too.

Prayer:
Dear God, who loved this fallen world and sent your Son to save it, renew my faith in Jesus as my Savior. Comfort me with the good news that by the death of Jesus, I am freed from the fear of your wrath and have the gift of life with you forever. Amen.