The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.
John 10:10 NLT
I am the good Shepherd who faithfully leads you into tomorrow.
I x-ray your heart—I understand your habits, hang-ups, and hurts.
I know your geographical, emotional and spiritual coordinates.
I walk ahead of you into the future—I already know what’s ahead.
When you step into tomorrow, you will find Me there, as I am today.
I live in the eternal now, and My love for you never changes.
Nestle near My heart and learn to recognize My voice.
Trust Me and your cup will be brimming with blessing after blessing.
Use My map and discover beautiful, peace-and-quiet locations.
Wait for Me and receive strength to persevere through difficulty.
Hold My hand and experience poise even in Death Valley.
Depend on My security system and be safe and sound whatever happens.
Enjoy the pleasure of My company and sing every heartbeat.
Celebrate My unfailing love and rest assured, however you feel.
Follow Me and find My way home.
I am the gracious Savior who loves you unconditionally.
How much do I love you? I died to pay the penalty for your sins.
No one forced Me to carry the cross to Skull Hill—I did it willingly.
No one killed Me—I voluntarily surrendered My spirit to My Father.
My feet were pierced to forgive you of walking where you shouldn’t.
My hands were nailed to a cross to cleanse you of your evil deeds.
I did not ride in a royal chariot—I trudged up a rough road.
I had no purple robe to wear—executioners gambled for My clothes.
I had no golden scepter—I was beaten on the head with a stick.
I received no homage—soldiers dropped to their knees in mock worship.
Through it all, I loved you—I always have and I always will.
I am the great Sovereign who lives to give you abundant and eternal life.
You are in My hands—no force can take you away from Me.
You’ve given Me your heart and I’ve given you Mine—we’re inseparable.
The Devil is a vicious wolf out to kill your joy—avoid his detours.
Satan is a roaring lion trying to destroy your influence—be careful.
The Adversary is a liar bent on stealing your enthusiasm—stay zealous.
Life in its fullness—better than you can dream—is something only I give.
I am the Way to the Truth of Life.
Without Me you can’t go to heaven, know reality, or really live!
With Me you can celebrate undying life, experience invulnerable joy,
grow in courage and hope, and experience ecstatic freedom!
© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Gentle Whispers from Eternity