THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 411

Now that you are born of God, God’s Spirit will we receive. Just as the plan of God can once again proceed. Why? Because we are the offspring of JESUS the Christ. Still, we Christ offspring are in the world even as He was in the world and as a consequence, we are His redeemed body. We are called to continue to enlighten the world with His wholesome words of redemption so that each and every one of us can receive the free gift of salvation too.

JESUS as the head of the believing body is now finished with death. Recall that the body wrapping which had covered the body of JESUS whilst He was in the tomb was found remaining in exactly the same place where Nicodemus and Joseph had laid JESUS' body? At the same time, the head wrappings were folded up and laid apart from the body wrappings, thus indicating that the Head of the Church (body) is finished with death. But still the offspring remains on earth continuing to deliver to one and all the gospel message that they too can become JESUS offspring - by continuing faithfully in His Words of Life.

As we read in the scriptures, JESUS is the vine. We are the branches coming forth from the vine. As we know from the natural world, the branches receive nourishment from the vine. The same analogy applies to our spiritual journey. We are not independent of the vine - JESUS. If we were independent of the vine, then we would wither and die.

The words that JESUS spoke were the Words of Life. When one believes, virtue flows forth from the vine (JESUS) so that the branches can be rejuvenated. You and I. Therefore, the church is NOT the VINE and denominations are NOT the branches.

Indeed, JESUS is the world’s only Saviour! The church is not your Saviour. The priest is not your Saviour. Mary is not your Saviour. And dare I say, the Pope is not your Saviour. In actuality, most of the afore mentioned religious beliefs are detour signs intended to lead people to everything except JESUS. Institutional traditions that fail to acknowledge that Jesus alone is the Author of your Salvation. And not only is JESUS the Author of Salvation, but He is also the Finisher of your Salvation. For from the very moment that you open your heart to Him, bidding Him to enter into your life, He becomes an overwhelming presence within you. There is a certainty within you of the joy of salvation that is so real.

So talk to JESUS as you would speak to a friend. Why? Because when you accept Jesus into your life, He becomes your best friend - 24/7. A friend who will never leave your or forsake you. Remember, God laid down His life just for you. If you allow God in JESUS to take over your life, He will do more in your life and with your life than you could possibly anticipate.

And when things don't appear to be working, let the Word of God be your rudder. Let the Word of God be that bit (horse bridle) in your mouth. Walk hand in hand with your personal Saviour and Friend who redeemed you. Don't forget to read your New Testament. Adorn your inner spirit with His WORD! Stay focused in your new journey because you are special. You have become one of His offspring saved by God’s Grace and Mercy. Most of all, let the Peace of God Rule and Reign in your Heart! God Bless You all!