cannyben

“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.’" Luke 1:46-47 (NIV) When it comes to planning, many Christians act like atheists. They realize Jesus saved them, but they don’t really trust him. They think they can plan their life any way they want to. But the reality is God created everyone, and he made each person for a unique purpose. He has a specific destiny for each individual. About two thousand years ago, God had a plan for a young woman named Mary. He had created her and chosen her to become the mother of the Son of God. What was Mary’s response when an angel told her about God’s plan? She didn’t say, “I’ve got my own plans for my life. I’m too busy. I have to do what’s best for me.” No, she realized God had a purpose for her life, and she was willing to do whatever he wanted. Her response was a song of praise: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47 NIV). Mary recognized that God was her Lor...

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36 (NIV) The world defines freedom as a life without any restraint. It’s an attitude that says, “I can do anything I want to do and say anything I want to say, without anybody telling me what to do.” With that kind of mindset, you get your freedom, but only by being totally selfish. But the Bible says the only way to true freedom is through Jesus: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). God sent Jesus to proclaim and deliver freedom from the sin that keeps you trapped in a cycle of anger, envy, greed, forgiveness, and selfishness. With true freedom, you’re set free from fear, guilt, worry, bitterness, and death. You’re free to quit pretending, because you’re free to be yourself. How do you get rid of fear and find real freedom in Jesus? By letting God love you! John teaches this: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). When you realize how much God loves y...