How exclusive is your Jesus?

 

Every group has criteria that must be met to join it. Even the most inclusive group might require you embrace inclusivity, thus creating a criteria that must be met. Christianity's criteria is asking Christ for forgiveness (Jn 14). There is no requirement that you hold to any particular political views, or perform any tasks, or be of any race, or speak a specific language, or wear specific clothes. The only criteria is Christ.

For the Joy...

 Christ's vicarious death not only paid for our sins, but also gave us insight into what He valued. The phrase "for the joy that was set before him" (Heb 12:2) reminds us of the intensity of God's love for us. Although we have nothing to offer God, He still loves us and thought we were worth redeeming. Can you rely on God's great love when you feel insignificant, unimportant, or even worthless?

The secret origin of shame

 Shame is first found in the story of Adam and Eve. When they broke God's commandment in the Garden of Eden, they immediately felt shame and hid. God didn't force them to feel shame, they felt it before being confronted. God then provides a way to alleviate their shame, and through Jesus Christ, we have been given the ultimate remedy for our shame. Do you bring the hope of Christ, or the shame of sin?

My God, My God why have you forsaken me?

While dying on the cross, Christ quoted Psalm 22. This Psalm described King David's suffering at the time of its writing, but also foretold the details of Christ's death. By living out the words of Psalm 22, Christ entered into David's suffering, and demonstrated that He would be able to enter into our suffering with us. 
 If you are feeling hopeless, consider letting this Psalm be your prayer.

Caring for the Cause

 God's care for His people is not always straightforward. After calling a drought on the land, Elijah suffered along with those he had cursed (1 Kings 7). God directed Elijah to a poor woman, whose suffering was undoubtedly increased by the drought. During this extreme time, she ensured the cause of  her increased suffering(Elijah) was given provision, and God blessed her for it in two unique ways.

Holding it together

Hebrews 1:1-3 tells us that was central to the creation of the universe and is still bearing the weight of all things. You might say he is holding everything together for us. Can you trust the one who holds all things to hold your life together and to give you grace to face each new personal crisis? 

All-encompassing awe

Isaiah 6 depicts God on his throne, surrounded by powerful beings who pale in contrast to the almighty. The first verse of this passage says the God's train, or part of his garment fill the temple. As God's presence fills the vision, there is no room for anything else. Does God's awe fill you today? Are you so in awe of God's power that everything else is pushed out of sight? What would that be like for you?