Friend in Jesus

“A rule I have had for years is: to treat the Lord Jesus Christ as a personal friend. His is not a creed, a mere doctrine, but it is He Himself we have.”
— Dwight L. Moody

It’s not always easy to remember to love Christ as a personal friend. Sometimes that’s because it’s hard for us to feel worthy of such a title, even though the Bible tells us we’re worthy because He is worthy and has died for us! Other times it’s because we’ve become too wrapped up in checklists and religious motions to really treat our relationship with Christ as personal. And then there are seasons of our lives when we can get caught up in the busyness of earthly things and forget to engage Jesus altogether. In this particular season of your life, what is holding you back from a deep, personal relationship with Jesus? What are some ways you can refocus on Christ as your best friend again? We are so incredibly blessed that God sent Jesus to Earth to not only save us from our sins but to be our companion, brother, and friend. Embrace the truth and freedom that Jesus loves you right where you are today, and in that peaceful place of mercy, surround yourself with His love and friendship.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”
— John 15:13-15

Journey on!

Filling the Void

“There’s a god-shaped hole in all of us

And the restless soul is searching…

There’s a god-shaped hole in all of us

And it’s a void only he can fill.”

— Plumb

We feel that emptiness deep in our hearts… in places others don’t see. We feel the hurt, the longing, the desire for more, but we don’t always understand it. We reach out to the world, to our loved ones and our spouses… and then we rail against them for not successfully filling the void. We look to success , to food, to words of affirmation, to almost anything we think might make us feel whole. And the more things we cram into our hearts the less fulfilled we feel. Maybe there is something wrong with us, we think. Maybe God made a mistake.

But we are made exactly how God intended, and we are not doomed to a life of emptiness and thirst. God loves us so much. He gives us living water (John 4:14) that fills our spirits in ways NO other thing of this world can do! We need God. We need His power, His love, His mercy, His grace, His beauty. Even the ones we love the most in this world cannot complete us the way God can. If you are searching for something to heal the hurt or fill an empty void in your heart, turn only to God. Let His love overflow and be more than enough for your needs. You will find great joy in allowing Him to fill your soul!

“Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.”
— Psalm 126:2

Journey on!

Fully Forgiven

Some people believe holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. However, there are times when it takes much more strength to know when to let go and then do it. —Ann Landers

Our post has made us who we are, taught us things that have hopefully grown us into better people. It holds beautiful memories that decorate the tapestry of our lives. But what of those blemishes on the canvas, those mistakes, those bad choices, those situations that may have made us stronger but also left scars… are we holding any of those things in our hearts today?

Jesus gives us a brand-new life, clean and fresh and beautiful. He takes our ashes and creates a brilliant garden of hope… but you have to forgive yourself of the past. What things in your past have you had the hardest time releasing? I know it’s a process, but be willing to open yourself up to the idea of accepting His grace fully, because He wants that for you! You are no longer tarnished. Jesus has set you free!

“Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” Isaiah 61:7

Journey on!

Abundantly Able

I often feel like I am not enough. I can't keep up up with the many demands on me each day the way I would like to, and in juggling so many things, I drop the ball here and there. I'm so thankful that in all the areas where I am weak, God is strong. He is more than enough to fill in the gaps where I feel like I'm failing. He lifts me up, helping me do more than I think I can. He fills my life with hope, joy, and peace. He puts others in my life to help where I need it. Lean on Him this week to give you strength to do more than you can imagine!

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever” (Eph 3:20–21 ESV)

Journey on!

What Love Is

1 John 3:16-18 (NIV)

16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

Stand Up for Faith...in Love

This world is in desperate need of people who show kindness and love in the midst of battles. There are many big issues being debated, and we should be actively involved in bringing about positive change. But it's all too easy to attack others who are not on your side and speak in anger, bitterness and malice, especially online. Remember that we are to shine Jesus to the world! We need to find ways to speak truth in LOVE, or not to speak at all. We need to stand up for justice, righteousness and holiness, but we need to do it in was that honor God. Let's focus on sharing His love this week.

"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith...Let all that you do be done in love." 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Journey on!

Your Purpose Matters

We have all been called to different ways of living this life for Jesus. Some have found their purpose in mission work, ministry, and non-profit organizations...others have started support groups, become advocates, or taken positions of leadership in their jobs so that they can promote integrity in success. Some people shine their light through raising their children, taking care of elderly parents, or adopting a child in need. What is your passion, your gift, the thing that lights you up inside? There are so many ways to honor the Lord with your life, and they are all equally valuable. However big or small you think your impact is on this world, God is using you to do great things, and your life and purpose matter. Keep shining!

Psalm 57:2 says, “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.”

Journey on!

You are Never Alone

During this pandemic, loneliness is at an all time high. We miss the connections and relationships we value so highly. There will be an end to this difficult season, but in the meantime, what are you doing to ensure you stay emotionally and spiritually healthy? Try to list out some self-care activities, like calling a friend, writing a letter to a family member, doing a fun activity with your family, having a date night, or engaging in a hobby. Above all, remember that while you may feel lonely at times, you are never, ever alone! Your Father God loves you so much. He is with you every single day. He is always there to give you connection, love, peace, and comfort! Find new ways to spend time with God and enjoy His presence. May you never feel alone, because you are embracing God's awesome love!

"...I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world." John 16:32-33

Journey on!

Purpose and a Plan

Sometimes it's hard not fully knowing God's plan for our lives. When we are waiting for answers, it can be stressful. We want life to make sense, but often there is an intricate plan that has to come together in His timing before we can truly see what God is doing in our lives. If you are feeling lost, or wondering why God is answering your prayers in a different way than you hoped, remember that even in our confusion, God is not confused. He has you in His steadfast hand. He will guide you whether things are clear or you are walking through a fog. Trust in Him and know that He created you for a special purpose!

"Perhaps you were born for such a time as this." Esther 4:14

Journey on!

I'll Do it Tomorrow

Have you ever struggled with procrastination? I know at my house there are always projects waiting to be finished and rooms to be cleaned...lots of things to accomplish in our lives that we may not want to do. It's easy to say, "I'll do it tomorrow. Or the next day. Or never."

When we choose procrastination for comfort's sake, we are actually deceiving ourselves. Perseverance is a much holier calling, not just because we are doing the work that God has set before us and honoring Him, but because we are living God's best for our lives. There are so many more blessings that come when we press forward. It seems like the most comforting path is to put things off, but when we accomplish our tasks, we actually find we have more peace, joy and balance in our lives. Go get started today!

"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:36

Journey on!

Be Renewed for a New Year

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. - 2 Corinthians 4:16

I'm not sure if anyone is sad to see 2020 come to an end. It's been a crazy year! While we spent this year caring for loved ones, protecting our communities, surviving political battles, and wondering what 2020 would bring us next, we also gave thanks for the blessings and triumphs in the midst of the hardship. As the earth prepares a new revolution of the sun, we can put the old behind us and look with hope towards a new year! 2021 may bring challenges of its own, but we can learn from last year and continue to grow. We can choose to find joy and peace, and we can look to the future with a smile. What are your goals for the coming year? Put your hope in God and He will walk you through this new adventure. 

Happy New Year! 

Raise a Hallelujah

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Like 1:13-14

This week, as you celebrate Christmas with those you love, lift up the holy and beautiful name of Jesus, and give thanks to God. Worship the King, the precious child born to Mary, the Son of God, the Holy one, the Bread of Life, the Savior of the World! Lift your voice in praise just as the angels did so long ago on that Bethlehem night. Embrace the wonder and majesty of Jesus' love for you, and share that joy and light with those around you. Merry Christmas!  

"O Come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!" (I Come All Ye Faithful) 

Journey on! 

Receive the Gift

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

It's so much fun to watch children open gifts at Christmas. Their faces light up when they first see the brightly wrapped packages, and they are giddy with excitement tearing into the paper to see what's inside. It's such a special time for parents and grandparents to see these sweet children fully immersing themselves in the joy of Christmas morning. As adults, we don't always appreciate the fun of getting gifts. God has blessed us with so many amazing gifts every single day, and we often overlook them! This week, appreciate all the gifts that the Lord has given you. Take time to name each one and thank Him. Remember that as we enjoy the gifts we share, the most important gift of all was when God sent us His son, Jesus. What love the father has for us that He should call us His children and give us the gift of salvation! 

"Light and Life, to all He brings, risen with healing in His wings." (Hark the Herald Angels Sing)

Journey on! 

The Journey Community Church is located at 380 South Seventh Street, Ponchatoula, LA 70454