The Joy of the Journey
It’s Time for Some Good News
When I was growing up, you had to wait till the evening to get the news, good or bad. Nowadays, it’s at our fingertips: social media, news outlets that are 24/7, advertisements, and more. It can be overwhelming to sift through all the noise and determine what is accurate, valuable, and worth our attention. In today’s fast-paced world, we are constantly bombarded with bad news and negativity. The Good News of Jesus offers a message of love, redemption, and salvation that provides comfort and strength in the face of life’s challenges and difficulties. As Christians, we are called to listen to the voice of God above all else, including the messages we receive from modern media.
The Bible teaches us the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit and discerning God’s will. In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep, hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” This verse reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are called to listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd and follow His leadership. The Holy Spirit serves as our guide and counselor, helping us navigate the complexities of life and make decisions that align with God’s Word and will for us.
The power of the Gospel or the Good News of Jesus lies in its ability to bring hope to the hopeless, peace to the restless, and joy to the sorrowful. Jesus’s message is one of love and forgiveness, offering a pathway to healing and wholeness for all who are willing to accept it. In a world immersed in suffering, injustice, and despair, the Good News of Jesus offers a message of hope and renewal that transcends the troubles of this world.
One of the most powerful aspects of the Good News of Jesus is its ability to transform lives. Countless individuals throughout history have experienced radical transformation and renewal through encountering Jesus’s message. From the woman at the well to the tax collector Zacchaeus, the power of the Good News of Jesus has been demonstrated repeatedlythrough the changed lives of those who have encountered His message.
Jesus offers a message of redemption and forgiveness desperately needed in a world of brokenness and sin. No matter how far we may have strayed or how deep our sins may be, Jesus’s message promises forgiveness and a fresh start. This message of grace and mercy proclaims a powerful alternative to the guilt and shame that often weigh us down in a world of bad news.
Furthermore, Jesus provides a source of strength and comfort during life’s trials and difficulties. In a world full of uncertainty and fear, Jesus’s message offers the promise of peace and assurance. The knowledge that we are loved unconditionally by our Creator can provide a sense of security and peace that transcends the troubles of this world.
Jesus also offers a message of unity and reconciliation in a world often divided and torn apart by conflict and strife. Jesus’s message calls us to love one another as He has loved us and to seek reconciliation and forgiveness. In a world of division and hatred, Jesus’s message offers a powerful vision of unity and harmony that has the potential to bring about lasting change in our lives.
In conclusion, as Christians, we are called to prioritize listening to the Holy Spirit above all else, including the messages we receive from modern media. By tuning our hearts and minds to the voice of God, we can experience a more profound sense of purpose, peace, and joy in our lives. Let us cultivate a spirit of discernment, humility, and obedience as we seek to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in all that we do. Ultimately, the power of the Good News of Jesus lies in its ability to bring light into darkness, hope into despair, and redemption into brokenness. May we continue to share this Good News with others and be salt and light in a world that desperately needs the message of Jesus. Remember, as you go through your week, Jesus loves you!
Pastor Phil Minter began his ministry in 1989 as a freshman in college. He received his degree in theology and ministry in 1992. During his time in college and after graduation he traveled conducting revivals, youth camps, and conferences in many states and countries. He lived in Athens, Greece for a short time where he aided in the mission efforts throughout Europe. He returned to the United States where he continued to minister in the USA and Canada. In 1994 he would move back to Georgia and travel the state speaking at various events. Phil married Tina Flowers in 1996 where they began their pastoral ministry in Jesup, Georgia. In 1999 they moved to Trion, Georgia, where they presently pastor Harvest Worship Center. Pastor Phil has a lifetime commitment to Chattooga County and the surrounding areas. Pastor Phil still travels (although limited due to his pastoral commitments) to preach and teach; Revivals, Camps, and, Conferences. His heart is driven by the great commission of Matthew 28. Reaching souls for Christ is and will remain his primary focus!