Verses that keep me going - John 6:29

 Most Christians have times of doubt and disappointment with God; times of wondering where God is and why he's not answering prayers. Times of temptation to even quit believing in God.

If you've read my book (Where Suffering Meets Sovereignty) you're aware that my life has not been free of trouble and suffering. I want to share some important verses that helped me, and can help you, to keep going in the midst of problems and disappointments. 

Asking me what my favorite verses are is like asking me what the favorite things are I love about my wife! But I would like to share some verses that keep me going when things get rough.

A COMMITMENT TO DOING THE WORK OF GOD

In Jesus' early ministry he was asked by the crowd that had gathered around him, "What must we do to do the works of God?" John 6:28. Jesus' answer changed my life and verse 29 became my life verse.

Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:29

As I read this verse, God impressed on my heart that this was not just a salvation verse, not just a one-time act. The verb tense in the original Greek is one that indicates continual action. It seemed that God was telling me that one of the hardest things I will need to do is to keep believing when life faced difficult times. 

When Jesus knew that Peter was about to experience his threefold denial he said to him, 

But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:32

Jesus knew that Peter would be tempted to lose his faith, but because Jesus prayed for him he didn't. We can be sure that all Jesus' prayers for us will be answered. We can also be sure Jesus is praying the same thing for us!

Therefore [Jesus] is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.                      Hebrews 7:25

What a special blessing and encouragement it is to know that Jesus is always praying for us. That would definitely include that our faith will not fail, but also for every other need we have. Amen. Thank you Lord!

 to be continued