How can that be, you may think?
Jesus has removed the worst fear from me! The worst thing that could happen in our minds here on earth is that we die. In knowing that if I do, then I will go to heaven and live with no more pain or suffering.
Revelation 21 tells us of the new order to come. “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” This is something we get to look forward to.
For some, it may actually be getting really sick and living in a lot of pain. I've been there before; there was a time when it seemed like it would be better to die. Even in those moments, the Lord was right by my side pulling me through. Jesus took our place on the cross, so that we may live abundantly in Him! It doesn't mean that we won't walk through pain, suffering, trials and tribulations. In fact, Jesus promised us that we will walk through storms!!
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33.
Ultimately, I believe that the Lord has me here for a much longer time, as He's given me specific words of restoration and abundant life over me. I will continue to proclaim those words that I heard from Him over me and my family. I know it's hard to think of what would happen to Matt and the girls, but I settled that in my heart a long time ago. I trust HIM even with the most valuable things in my life. Because I truly KNOW Him, and I TRUST Him wholeheartedly, every part of me.
Satan wants to distort the face of God with lies about who He is. But if we see God for who He really is, then we see that He is loving and kind and wants all people to come to know Him (1 Timothy 2:4). And that it's actually God's KINDNESS that leads people to repentance (Romans 2:4). He sent Jesus, His one and only Son as a sacrifice, to remove sin that stood in the way between us and Himself. There's absolutely no greater love than that. Can you imagine sacrificing your own Son for the life of someone else? In fact, the reason we are even capable of fully loving, is because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. 1 John 4:15
In the face of this storm that is very real and very scary for many, I want to encourage you to come to Jesus. Even in the midst of the storm, you can find peace in Him. Paul said it best, in his final exhortations to the church at Philippi.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7