A little Gospel for ya'll

First of all, let me just say that I love the word "ya'll," but I feel completely silly saying it (or typing it) seeing as I am a California girl!

Second, Eric and I did indeed go see The Nativity the other night. I thought it was soooo good. Eric thought it was good, but a little slow in some parts. I was probably the only one crying in the theater, but I don't care. God really spoke to me through this movie.

While Mary was giving birth I could completely relate to her. Just like Mary, I gave birth to my first born son, Judah. Just like Mary I wasn't sure if I would make it to the place I was to give birth, while on my way to the hospital with Samuel. Just like Mary God is using me in incredible ways, even though so often I think, "Why me God? Who am I? Not my will, but Yours be done."

Christmas is amazing. Like I said before, I love it for so many reasons. I love the warm fuzzies it gives me. But, the main reason I love it is because it symbolizes the day that Jesus, the Savior of the world, was born. Maybe he wasn't born in December, but that's not really the point. He WAS born!

God created each one of us for a purpose and with a destiny. He created us to have a relationship with Him. But, sin separates us from Him. He is holy and perfect and the Bible says we were born into sin.

What is sin? Sin is defined by the 10 commandments. Have you ever lied? Even one little white lie? Then you have broken one of the 10 commandments. That is sin. Have you ever had sex outside of marriage? The Bible says that even looking at someone with lust is commiting adultery in your heart. That's only 2 out of 10. Good luck with the rest! :)

Seriously though, all sin is the same. Sin comes with consequences. The consequence of sin is death. Eternal death in hell. And, death here on earth, which looks like depression, anger, & rejection. When we sin we don't literally fall down dead, but we live a life of "death."

The Bible, also, says that God desires that no man should perish! God didn't create hell for man. He created it for Satan and his fallen angels. God created you to life a life of abundance! A life of fulfillment, joy, prosperity, and most of all eternal life with Him!

So, how do you go from living your life on a path that leads to death to a path that leads to life? First of all, acknowledge that you indeed are a sinner. Acknoweledge that Jesus died on the cross for your sins. Sin has consequences and He paid that price for you. Then, repent from your sins. Turn to Jesus. To "repent" doesn't mean just praying a prayer, it means making a complete turnaround. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ. Tell Him all of your sin and then recieve His love and forgiveness. Begin a relationship with Him.

A lot of people have indeed "prayed the prayer" before. Maybe you have and right now you're realizing that your life never changed. That you never repented and turned from your sin. Today is your day to be truly converted. To go from just making a choice for God to having REAL relationship with Him. To be a victorious Christian, to be used by Him, to see Him do great and awesome things in and through you. He wants to heal Your heart. Cry out to Him!