Encouraging Words

From        Jimmy Keyton

                                                                      Volume 12      December 2001

I love the Christmas season. It seems like people are friendlier and more caring during the holidays. The love that God showed us when He sent Jesus to be born in a stable spills over in our hearts. He showed us the greatest love possible when He gave His Son as a sacrifice for our sin. The Grace of God that exemplifies itself in the birth of Jesus is the greatest love story ever told.

Most people of the world are trying to earn their salvation by doing good deeds. They think that if their good deeds outweigh their bad deeds that they will earn a place in Heaven. I felt that way myself at one time and I can tell you that life under the law is like trying to walk on eggs without breaking one. It is impossible to keep the law so I always failed and felt very guilty. Then one dayI heard and understood the “Good News” that Jesus died for my sin and paid the price for my salvation. I accepted His sacrificial death on the cross as my salvation and received Him into my heart. He then filled me with His Spirit and changed all my “want to’s”. Now I no longer want to sin but I do want to do good. I now do good, not to be saved, but because I am saved. I don’t have to do good, I get to. What a wonderful change Jesus made in my life.

When you see the pictures of the little baby Jesus, just remember that He left Heaven and was born on earth because He loves you that much. He fulfilled His purpose when He died on the cross to pay the price for your sin and to give you eternal life. Salvation is yours as a free gift from God. Accept His sacrifice as your salvation and receive Him into your heart. Wow!! What a glorious change will take place in your life. You are so very special and God has wonderful plans for your life.

I’m praying for you and your family and wish for all of you a Christ filled Christmas!