John 14:23-27

23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will treasure my word. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not treasure my words. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.- John 14:23-27

Dear Jesus,

I now know just how common and natural it is for me to want to see you in order to believe.  Your disciples asked the same question.  Your answer is so helpful.  You and the Father want to be experienced through the word you share.  You want that word to bring peace that comes from all the promises you make there.  You want that word to bring reconciliation between us.  You want that word to be what I treasure.  Jesus, I do treasure your words; your words about grace, your words about hope, your words about life.  When I think about your words, there is a warm glow in my heart.  It reminds me of when those two disciples had their hearts burning within them when they walked with you while you explained the Scriptures to them.  I see you in your word and like Abraham, I believe your word over my circumstances.  (In regard to the promise of the conception of a child to come.) I have peace in my heart that everything in my life will ultimately turn out for good. So, give me the strength today to lead my heart to peace instead of following as it traipses through all it's anxieties. 

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson 

If you want to know God personally, learn to treasure his word intimately.

Additional Reading: Genesis 15 and Romans 4