JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word of Encouragement is Belonging.

To belong to something is to have a sense that we fit in somewhere, and that we are connected to a group.

We were not made to be isolated from people.  The LORD said at the time of Creation that it is not good for man to be alone. So, He created a helper for him.

The grace of God opens the way for us to be part of God’s family and His kingdom. First Peter 2:9 says to the faithful church, “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

Belonging to God is a precious connection that brings joy to our heart, light to our day, and praise to our words.

Find encouragement in the opportunity of belonging to God and His family in the Year of Endurance.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to stay connected with Jesus every single day.

The importance of relying on Jesus for each step of faith is highlighted in John 15:5. Jesus said to His followers, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

One of the ways that we remain connected to Jesus is through prayer. Relationships thrive through open communication. Prayer is how we can have a conversation with God.

Another way to have a conversation with God is to read the Bible. That is where God’s Word communicates to us and tells us how to live a life that pleases Him. When we follow through on God’s plan for our lives, there is fruit that brings glory to God.  Jesus said in John 15:8, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

Take the daily challenge to stay connected with Jesus every single day, every step of the way on the journey of faith.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com