1 Timothy 1:12 – “I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me.”

When we read our Bibles, when we hear a preacher speak, when we hear encouragement and loving rebuke from a brother and sister in Christ – what do you see? Is Christ there?  Words heard mean nothing.  Doctrine understood and known means nothing.  Actions performed mean nothing.  Faithful gospel preaching is good, right doctrine is good, and walking in holiness and service is good, but these are only a means to the One who matters, our Lord, Jesus Christ.  Do you know Him?  Not just things about Him, but do you know Him?  This isn’t a question of judgment, but encouragement.  The is peace in resting in Jesus, because you know Him, and are known by Him.  Look above at Paul’s writing in 1 Timothy – his hope doesn’t merely rest in a saving knowledge of right doctrine about Christ and His death and resurrection, His hope is Christ Himself.  Do you have that kind of relationship with Jesus?

I can tell you that there will be times when you have struggles.  There will be times when the greatest comfort you can have is to know Jesus.  He has made an end of your sin, and remembers all your sin, past, present, and future – no more.  He is perfect righteousness for you, He is perfect love towards you, His desire is for your fullness of joy.  His rebuke is always in love. He will never leave or forsake you, but does whatever is necessary to safeguard the faith He has entrusted to you.  Do you know Him?  My hope is that you do know Him, and go to Him daily to know more.

Grace and Peace,

Adam