Transformation is hard work if you truly make the decision to give all of your heart to Jesus. It cost. Pieces don’t cut it.
Childlike faith is the key ingredient, which melts wisdom and intimacy into a sweet relationship with Jesus. The luster of your faith of trust and dependence will bring about the brilliance of Peace and Joy.
A wonderful friend recently gave me a copy of one of the most transforming books I’ve ever read entitled, Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. Sarah shares her key to intimacy with Christ occured when she began to experience God’s presence continuously in her day. Time alone with God, in uninterrupted communion, taught her the ability to listen rather than talk. Her prayer journals have evolved from a monologue to dialogue.
Sarah now sits before God and waits for Him to tell her what to write as He directs her how to apply His Word to her life. She now rests in His presence as He relaxes her, helps her to let go, and tenderizes her heart to cease striving. Fear, anxiety, distrust have now turned to fullness of joy with a peace that surpasses all understanding because Jesus, Emmanuel, IS God with us.
Here is the May 19th devotion from Sarah’s book as Jesus talks to her through Scripture.
I want you to know how safe and secure you are in My Presence. That is a fact, totally independent of your feelings. You are on your way to heaven; nothing can prevent you from reaching that destination. There you will see Me face to Face, and your Joy will be off the charts by any earthly standards. Even now, you are never separated from Me, though you must see Me through eyes of faith. I will walk with you till the end of time, and onward into eternity.
Although My Presence is a guaranteed promise that does not necessarily change your feelings. When you forget I am with you, you may experience loneliness or fear. It is through awareness of My Presence that Peace displaces negative feelings. Practice the discipline of walking consciously with Me through each day.
“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12
“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11
Do you feel Him near you today? He’s with you whether you feel Him or not.
