The Word of the Lord Endures Forever - Part 732

We have so many reasons to rejoice and to be thankful. Certainly, we can rejoice that eternal life is a free gift, courtesy of the love and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour. We can rejoice that there is nothing that we can do to obtain the gift of salvation in and of ourselves, except believe on Jesus by faith. Similarly, we can rejoice that salvation is based solely upon the blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In other words, when we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and willingly do His will, we shall be saved. (Acts 16:31)

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ is adamant on this point as he writes to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia -- the elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.

Herein, he reiterates the good news gospel message of the Kingdom. That is, to rejoice that we were not redeemed with corruptible things but rather with the precious blood of Christ, as a lamb without blemish and without spot -- "who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world but was manifest in these last times for you [and I]-- who by Him do believe in God that raised Him up from the dead and gave Him glory -- that your faith and hope might be in God." (I Peter 1:18-21)

It is for this reason that we can rejoice in His abundant mercy that hath begotten us again unto a lively hope -- by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead -- to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled -- and that fades not away but instead is reserved in heaven for you and I -- who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (I Peter 1:3-4)

And it is for this same reason that we can rejoice even in the midst of manifold temptations, that the trial of our faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes -- might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ -- our Lord God and Saviour who loved us beyond measure. 

Most of all, we can be thankful that we can rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, receiving the end of our faith, even the salvation of our souls. Therefore, rejoice in this day -- this brand new day that the Lord hath made for our enjoyment. Stand in the offering plate.