Life to the FullSample

A Generation for Jesus

As humans, God created us for a personal and intimate relationship with Him. For us to partner with Him in extending the Kingdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit, we must be open to inviting Jesus into our hearts. Jesus longs to bring freedom and hope to our lives and says ‘I stand at the door and knock. If anyone … opens the door, I will come in and eat' (Revelation 3:20). Many of us will have already encountered the Holy Spirit and look at these times as significant moments in our faith. You may have found a new hope or perspective on life through this.

This shouldn’t be the climax of our faith though. It is how we then go about living for God which defines us as Christians. I don’t know about you, but this isn’t always easy. Especially with the culture around us and the many things which can distract us from God’s presence in our everyday lives. How can we live wholeheartedly for God in our every day and become more Christ-like?

Reading the Bible is vital in our walk with Jesus. It is where we connect with God, understand His character and know what it means to follow Jesus. Studying God’s word is such a blessing and is so life-giving. So take your time when reading to let the words sink in, and over time the truth and wisdom of the Bible will transform your heart and mind.

Being open to sharing your faith in a world which so desperately needs it, takes courage, but it is how we grow in confidence and draw others to God. Knowing that we should ‘Be strong and courageous’ because ‘God will be with you wherever you go’ (Joshua 1:9) is so encouraging to hear when stepping out in faith. The Creator of the universe is with us and is in control, so take that chance and know that we don’t have to do it with our own strength.

Bringing God into our situations is how to draw closer to Him. Through prayer and resting in His presence, we can give our burdens to God and acknowledge that He loves us and is in control. God hears our prayers and we align ourselves with God’s will through prayer. By trusting in God we see Him working in our lives as well as the lives of others. ‘Draw near to God and He will draw near to you’ (James 4:8).

Questions

What challenges do you face as a young person following Jesus?

What places in your life can you transform by showing Jesus’ light and power?

Prayer

Thank you, Father, that you love us and have created us for a relationship with You. We pray for deeper intimacy with You and the knowledge that You are present with us in all things. Thank You that as we draw near to You, You draw near to us.

Amen