My heart is so full of gratitude tonight. I am grateful for so many things. First of all for a loving God who is faithful to give me exactly what I am in need of. Second of all for my family and friends. I am most grateful for the forgiveness that I feel in my heart. I have truly been given the peace that passes all understanding. Sometimes it seems that we are so busy in life searching for the things that we think that will make us happy but in reality, it is only God that can truly make us happy. My prayer for all of you is that you will feel my love, peace and forgiveness. I have heard it said by Rev. B.R. Hicks, who is a precious minister and has given her whole life for God, say that "Gratitude is the key to the city". I sure hope that's right because if so, I am well on my way because my heart is overflowing with thankfulness. Gratitude for where I have been, where I am and where I am going.
There is this sweet lady that I have known since I was a baby, and her name is Ann Brown. She is such a beautiful person and one that we all looked up to and wanted to be like. I had the opportunity to talk to her on the phone recently and just the sound of her voice, her sweet attitude, blessed me. She told me that there are times in this life where she feels like she has sinned beyond forgiveness but that when the enemy tells her that she is unworthy that she starts singing "Jesus Loves Me" I have had to start doing the same thing. When you feel unworthy, or that maybe you have been cut off, or when the enemy says that "God is really done with you this time" or you don't feel forgiven by people etc. I can sing this song and know that Jesus loves even me. In spite of all the wrong I have done and all of my humanity, Jesus loves me and for this I am grateful!
Pastor Gene. Holley was given us words of encouragement tonight at church about not quitting. He said we are so close to the finish line and that we just can't give up now. He talked about how much Jesus loves us and he is on our side and wants us to make it. I could feel all my burdens and hurt and self worthlessness fly out the door. I felt encouraged! I felt hope and then came peace. I believe that God wants the Pastors to encourage their people and preach the love of Jesus, not to make them feel cut off , or that they have committed some unforgivable sin. I can feel God's love in such a strong way that it is overwhelming and with you I want to share. If you are in a place in your life where you feel discouraged and you want to quit, just sing that song "Jesus Loves Me" and know that it's not just a song, but he really does love you! God is LOVE, he is MERCIFUL, GRACIOUS, LONG SUFFERING! He is all the things that humanity is not. I so long to be like him. To all that are reading this, I love you but most important, Jesus loves you!
