By Dawn Pietsch
Being “IN” Christ Jesus All the Time
In
the month of November, there is a big focus on Thanksgiving! What are
we truly thankful for? As believers, our main focus should be on Jesus
Christ, the finished work of the cross, and His death, burial, and
resurrection.
What does this mean? Jesus’ death can mean, dying
to oneself. His burial can mean, letting it all go, and keeping it all
buried. His resurrection can mean a new life “IN” Christ Jesus! Being in
Christ Jesus doesn’t only mean a new life, but a life that is
exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the
power that works in us! (See Ephesians 3:20.)
We have so much by being “IN” Christ Jesus! In 3 John 1:2, the Bible says—
2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
This
verse is pretty exciting to me! It shows that we are loved beyond
measure. It also shows that the Heavenly Father wants us to prosper in
all things, including our health! Wow! The Bible says that God wants our
souls to prosper too. Our souls make up our minds, wills, and emotions.
If
we are operating with the mind of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 2:16b), we
can do all things through Christ who strengthens us! (See Philippians
4:13.) And all things are possible to him who believes! (See Mark 9:23.)
The Bible also says in John 14:12—
12
Most assuredly, I [Jesus] say to you, he who believes in Me, the works
that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do,
because I go to My Father.
Jesus is giving you and I permission to do greater works for His Kingdom.
When
we operate “IN” Him, we do His will. The Bible is full of great verses
that give us the ability to walk “IN” Him. We are called, sanctified,
and preserved “IN” Christ Jesus. (See Jude 1:1.) God does it all for us!
And He is even able to keep us from stumbling, and to present us
faultless before Him, with exceeding joy! (See Jude 1:24.) God is also
giving us permission to have fun while we do this! The Bible says in
Nehemiah 8:10, for the joy of the Lord is our strength.
This is a
great reminder of, “Tis the Season to be Jolly!” We all have much to be
joyful and thankful for. Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith!
(See Hebrews 12:2.)
We bless and thank you all for all your
prayers and provisions that have enabled us to be missionaries and bring
the Kingdom of God to the streets, and wherever the Lord takes us.
Abundant blessings to you.
Love,
Nathan and Dawn