A Further Hope

As John pondered the grace I could provide him. He began to understand that it was not all about himself. As my verse says: Galatians 2:20 “I am crucified with Christ nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” Another great answer was My promise: “In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” As John applied this verse to his life he discovered more and more joy. Truly to be in the center of My will is found in a heart of thanksgiving. Another area of spiritual growth was the development of My armor. John used memorized Scripture to provide for all the pieces of this armor. My helmet of salvation was My foundational truth. “Christ died for your sins, was buried and rose again on the third day according to the Scripture.” My breastplate guarded John’s heart. What greater protection is there than that of a thankful heart? Again, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.” The lions were girded up to help John run well. My verse was: “Those that wait upon the Lord shall mount upon with wings as eagles, they shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint.” For the feet were shod with the gospel of peace. “How beautiful are the feet of them that bring Good News.” The shield of faith was centered on My faithfulness to John. “He that began a good work in you shall perform it till the day of Jesus Christ” The final weapon was the “Sword of My Spirit,” which is the word of God. This is “My Word” applied to a specific situation. One of My greatest was: “My grace is sufficient for thee, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” My final thoughts for John were, “John, you have My Word on it,” and the simple but powerful truth is “I love you and I’ve given myself for you.”