I was searching on line today for some ideas for illustrations for my upcoming message and discovered www.JesusFreaks.net with some great stories. I own the Jesus Freaks V1 and have read some of the other stories. I also get the "Voice of the Martyrs" magazine and hurt over those believers in other countries that are oppressed. At the same time – I am impressed with the zeal, fervor and passion with which these brothers and sisters in Christ faithfully serve and share Christ even when it is not safe. Read this excerpt from the Jesus Freak Devotional – think it through today with YOUR life situations.
The Good Life
Everybody wants a good life. We even joke about living "the good life." But Jesus promised His followers not necessarily a good life, but an abundant life. Webster's defines abundant as "more than enough; amply sufficient; bountiful."15 Translated into Jesus Freak terminology, that means God promises to give us not only everything we truly need but also an endless well of peace and joy to draw from. If you are a Jesus Freak, the life God has planned for you goes beyond even your wildest dreams. He wants to take you on a wild ride that centers on trusting Him, obeying Him, and following His lead. What will it cost you? Everything—your heart, your time, your willingness, your money, your reputation, maybe even your life. But remember: In exchange for "losing your life," you get a major upgrade. You gain His peace, His joy, His supernatural power, His perfect plan here and now, and a never-ending future with Him in heaven.
Jesus knew when the time had come for Him to die. During one of His last conversations on earth, He told His disciples:
I'm telling you these things while I'm still living with you. The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I'm leaving you well and whole. That's my parting gift to you. Peace. I don't leave you the way you're used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don't be upset. Don't be distraught . . .
I've told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.
— John 14:25-27,15:9-13, The Message
Excerpted from:
Live Like a Jesus Freak by dc Talk
Copyright © 2001, Bethany House Publishers
ISBN 157782089
With what are you willing to trust Jesus? All of it – or just the convenient parts of your lfe?
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