Jesus came to give abundant life, a gift that is not measured by physical health or material prosperity (John 10:10). It is life in fellowship with the Creator, life that continually bubbles up like an artesian well from a hidden, inner source (John 7:38-39). This life produces peace and joy that are undefeatable and that can thrive despite any circumstance. I am not speaking of shallow emotions, but of a spiritual awareness and assurance which are far deeper, and which can thrive even in the midst of tears.

May you be filled this day with a strong sense of God’s powerful presence by his Spirit.

    To tell the truth, I have found that the only person in the world who can steal my peace or hinder my joyful relationship with the Heavenly Father is me. No matter what the problem — whether it be a challenging circumstance, a difficult person, an overwhelming temptation or a fearful crisis — if I take it honestly to God and lay it openly at his feet, he gives peace and strength for each ordeal. He does not always remove the difficulty, though sometimes he does. However he always pours out an anointing balm of serenity, a sense of well-being, a consciousness that he is near,which truly exceeds my ability to understand (Phil. 4:6-7).

    May you be filled this day with a strong sense of God’s powerful presence by his Spirit. May your heart be warmed with the knowledge, as you live in faith-union with Christ, that the Creator of the universe knows you intimately and that he loves you beyond measure (Isa. 12; Rom. 15:13). May you know the ultimate joy, that comes from living at God’s right hand (Psalm 16).

© 2001, Edward Fudge. Used by permission. This article was reprinted from gracEmail.

Title: "Relationship With God"
Author: Edward Fudge
Publication Date: September 25, 2001

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