Friday, July 26, 2013

By: Rachelle Hitt Bilbo

 

Has it Been a WHILE?

 

John 3:17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.

  

Have you ever heard the following statement when encountering an old friend: "I can't remember the last time I saw you!" A friend of mine does NOT have this problem. He keeps a calendar and marks each time someone visits him. Recently, a family member stopped by who hadn't been to his house in quite some time, and he broke out the calendar and informed this person that it had been too long since her last visit.

 

I was amused upon hearing this story, but I also thought, "Whoa, I wonder what God's calendar looks like?"

 

God desires to have a relationship with you. Throughout His Word, He refers to His creation as heirs, children, beloved, the apple of His eye, friends, disciples, a royal priesthood, brides...and much MORE.

 

He loves YOU, and as in any relationship, He desires companionship.

 

So, maybe it's been a little while since you've had a nice, long meaningful encounter with God or maybe you have already spent time with Him today! Either way, know that He is ALWAYS waiting for you with open arms.

 

I love the account of the infamous Prodigal Son in Luke 15. His father gave him his portion of his inheritance, and he went to a distant country and "squandered his wealth in wild living." Then, there was a famine in his new home. Upon becoming so hungry that he even considered eating from a pig trough, it dawned on him that there was an abundance of food at his father's house!

 

Immediately upon seeing his returning son, the father hugged him, kissed him, clothed him in his best robe, put a ring on his finger, put sandals on his feet, and fed him from the best of his herd. The past did not matter. He only cared about a future with his son.

 

If it's been a while since you've been home in the presence of God, don't wait any longer. He's not waiting to condemn you...to show you the calendar documented with how long it has been...to rehearse your past sins. He just wants to love and provide for you. Everything you need is in HIS house...in your FUTURE with Him.

 

Dear Lord, Forgive me for times that I have neglected spending time with You. Thank You for being my such a loving Provider, Father and Friend.

 

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.