Dear Ones,
May you have a joy-filled day and live in the present moment. I have banana bread in the oven and Al will be able to sample it after he gets home from the Men’s group. Today is also Donut Day here and Bible study.
Devotions from Judy’s heart
  When we come to know the Lord and experience His peace and joy in our souls, it is not something to keep to ourselves but to share with others. So many around us may not know the Lord personally, even though at times have been to church, and know a few verses of scripture. But until they open their heart to the Lord and receive Him, there is a big vacancy in their soul that will never be satisfied apart from the Lord.

  Sadly, there are those who are trying to earn salvation and live such good lives helping the oppressed, giving to the poor, and doing many wonderful works and yet missing out on the most important decision they will ever make…receiving Jesus. We probably all know people like that who tirelessly serve others but unless they receive Him, one day Jesus will have to say to them, “I never knew you!”

  The Lord would have us share Him with not only those that have never heard but also with those who are living lives trying to do good works to earn salvation. Like it says in Titus 3:5 that He saved us not on basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy. No matter how many good deeds we do it will not give us a pass to heaven, only by receiving God’s forgiveness and mercy. Like Paul preached in Rom. 10:9, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved.” Not if we did 100 deeds of mercy but believe and have faith in Him.

  Let us not be silent by fear of offending, but sensitive to the Spirit when He is prompting us to share the way of life with those around us. May He give us words that are gracious, seasoned with salt (Gal. 4:6), and to point them to Jesus.

  Challenge for today: Ask for holy boldness to share Jesus with your friends and those you may meet who have not yet placed their faith in the Lord.
Blessings on your day and prayers and love, Judy