JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of God’s Word, this is what the LORD says in John 11:25 and 26.

Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

These words were said by the graveside of Martha’s brother Lazarus. He died four days earlier, but Jesus would raise him to life again to demonstrate the truth of His claims.

Martha believed. She replied to Jesus with this statement of faith, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”

John 11:25 and 26-that’s today’s God Quote for us to embrace for life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word from God’s Word is Admirable.

As we focus on the admirable qualities of God’s character, we gain access to the peace of God.

Whatever is admirable is worthy of respect and approval.

Psalm 86:15 reflects on some of those qualities of God that are worthy of our respect. “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”

Around heaven’s throne, the four living creatures are heard constantly saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.”

Discover how the word “Admirable” can have an impact on your life in the Year of God’s Word.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of God’s Word, this is what the LORD says in John 21:17.

“Do you love me?”

This was the third time Jesus asked Peter this question. After Jesus was arrested a few days earlier, Peter denied that he even knew Jesus three times.  Now, Peter would have the opportunity to affirm his love for Jesus three times. And he did. He said, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus responded by saying “Feed by lambs.” By saying this, Jesus was reinstating Peter to a place of ministry.

This question from Jesus is also relevant for our response, no matter how many times we may have failed Him in the past. “Do you love me?” If our answer is “Yes”, He will be there to give us a fresh start into a meaningful purpose.

John 21:17-that’s today’s God Quote for us to embrace for life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word from God’s Word is Lovely.

Philippians 4:8 instructs us to think of that which is lovely.

As we focus on the presence of Jesus and the beauty of worshipping Him, we gain access to the peace of God.

The writer of Psalm 84 said, “How lovely is your dwelling place, LORD Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.”

There are several majestic descriptions of heaven found in the Bible, but none are likely to compare with the picture of God dwelling with His people forever in a peaceful relationship. Around heaven’s throne, Jesus will be honored as He deserves.

Discover how the word “Lovely” can have an impact on your life in the Year of God’s Word.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of God’s Word, this is what the LORD says in Matthew 16:15.

“What about you? Who do you say I am?”

Jesus made statements, spoke parables and taught about the Kingdom of God. He also asked people questions. By doing this, He invites us into the conversation for a response.

Jesus asked His disciples what they thought about His identity. Peter was blessed for saying, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”  Jesus pointed out that Peter’s insight was not revealed to him by flesh and blood, but by his Father in heaven.

What about us? Who do we say that Jesus is?”

Matthew 16:15 to 17-That’s today’s God Quote for us to embrace for life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word from God’s Word is Pure.

Philippians 4:8 instructs us to think of that which is pure.

As we focus on the purity of Christ and His plan to cleanse His followers as a radiant church, we gain access to the peace of God. The example of Christ will inspire us to a place of purity.

There are sinful influences in this world trying to corrupt our hearts, and it is important to be aware of those influences so that we take measures to guard our heart. Sinful desires also wage war on our souls.

Paul mentored a young pastor named Timothy with these words in Second Timothy 2:22-“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”

Discover how the word “Pure” can have an impact on your life in the Year of God’s Word.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of God’s Word, this is what the LORD says in First Samuel 16:7.

“The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

God spoke these words to Samuel who was seeking the next king of Israel. Samuel was impressed by physical appearances when considering Jesse’s sons. David was not even in the house at the time. He was only considered after Samuel had discerned that God was not calling any of his brothers.

God is able to look beyond the surface of our skin to see what is in our heart. Where He sees humility and love for God, He sees someone who is ready to honor His name by doing His will. David became the next king of Israel. God said about him, “I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.”

First Samuel 16:7-that’s today’s God Quote for us to embrace for life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word from God’s Word is Right.

Philippians 4:8 instructs us to think of that which is right.

As we focus on whatever is right from God’s point of view, we gain access to the peace of God.

Looking to Jesus and accepting the words of God in the Bible give us a focus point for doing what is right. Jesus was sinless, and the Bible is a God-breathed book. Psalm 19:8 says that “the precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.” Setting our sights on what is right gives us direction for honoring God’s name with our actions.

The prophet Jeremiah was inspired to write these words down by God’s authority-“Ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Discover how the word “Right” can have an impact on your life in the Year of God’s Word.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of God’s Word, this is what the Lord says in Matthew 11:28 and 29.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

A yoke is a wooden beam that is used between a pair of oxen. This beam helps them to pull together on a load when working in pairs.

Jesus is inviting us to do life with Him-to go in the same direction as He is going. Jesus is inviting us into a relationship where we can learn from Him in a supportive environment, and find rest for our souls. That is the impact of His grace.

Matthew 11:28 and 29-That’s today’s God Quote for us to embrace for life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word from God’s Word is True.

Philippians 4:8 instructs us to think of that which is true.

As we focus our thoughts on the truth of God’s Word, we gain access to the peace of God.

That which is true is reality and can be considered trustworthy.

There is great freedom and transparency that we can experience by walking in a true relationship with God.

John 5:20 says, “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.”

Discover how the word “True” can have an impact on your life in the Year of God’s Word.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com