We Believe That Jesus Died and Rose Again
Date: April 9, 2024
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse (NIV): 1 Thessalonians 4:14 "We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him."
L - Listen for God's Voice and Pray: Dear God, we're reminded of the hope we have in Christ's resurrection and the promise of reunion with our loved ones who have passed away. Help us to find comfort and assurance in this truth, knowing that You are faithful to fulfill Your promises. Amen.
E - Explore the History and Meaning: 1 Thessalonians is a letter written by the apostle Paul to the believers in Thessalonica. In chapter 4, Paul addresses questions and concerns regarding the return of Christ and the fate of believers who have died. Paul confirms the Christian belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He assures the Thessalonian believers that just as Jesus rose from the dead, so too will God bring with Jesus those who have died in faith.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases: Key words/phrases:
Jesus died and rose again - Signifies the foundational Christian belief in Christ's death and resurrection.
God will bring with Jesus - Indicates God's role in the resurrection and reunion of believers.
Fallen asleep in him - Refers to believers who have died in faith, emphasizing the peaceful nature of death for Christians.
We believe - Highlights the importance of faith in the Christian understanding of resurrection.
S - Summarize and Share:
1 Thessalonians 4:14 holds a deeply personal significance for me as it speaks to the core of my faith and the hope I hold dear. It's like Paul is reaching out to us, saying, "Remember, just as Jesus rose from the dead, God will bring with Jesus those who have passed away in faith."
For me, this verse is very personal, especially in moments when I think of my parents and other loved ones who have gone before me. It's a reminder that the story doesn't end with death; it continues with the promise of resurrection and reunion in the presence of our loving Savior.
I find great comfort in knowing that those who have fallen asleep in Christ are not lost to us forever. Instead, they rest peacefully in His embrace, awaiting the glorious day of resurrection when we will be reunited with them for eternity.
This promise has been a source of strength and comfort in the middle of my greatest grief. It's a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is light and hope in the assurance of God's faithfulness.
May this verse serve as a beacon of hope for all who hold it close to their hearts, reminding us that our faith in Christ transcends the boundaries of life and death, and that in Him, we find eternal comfort and peace.
4 Bible Cross References:
John 11:25-26
1 Corinthians 15:20-22
Romans 8:11
Revelation 21:4