Dear Hope family,

Thought for the Week

Loved and You have a place!

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms;” – John 14v1

So we have now entered the period called “Lent” as we lead up to Easter. Many use Lent as a time to lay aside the things of this world in order reflect more on God’s love for us shown in Jesus. We are continuing our series about the Love of God towards us and today is this familiar verse in John 14.

Do you like to get to somewhere early so that you can make sure you have a good seat? Jesus tells us not to worry with regards to space in the Father’s house. You are guaranteed a place if you belong to Jesus: that is if you have been born again. The verse above continues, “I am going to prepare a place for you.” That is Jesus, who loved you and even died for you, is the one sorting this out for you.

And so, whatever you encounter in this life, do not let your heart be troubled. Is that possible? Jesus says the alternative to a troubled heart is trust in God. So we might ask, how can I gain a deeper trust in God? The secret lies in filling our hearts and minds with his love and faithfulness. Fill them with his faithfulness by reflecting on what impossible things God has done  when people stepped out in faith – listen to people’s testimonies, both in the Bible and outside it. Then fill them with his love by meditating on how much God loves you – yes, if Jesus died for you, he is not now going to let you go!

May God increase your faith and trust in Him!

With love and blessing,

Roland