I believe the message of hope is extremely important at this time—for people throughout the US and around the world. Many individuals are feeling quite insecure and anxious because of economic problems, natural catastrophes, unstable governments in various parts of the world, plus nuclear and terrorist threats. There is a hopelessness creeping into people’s mindsets as they look at problems in their lives and all around them. There is also a sense of helplessness among people who have lost jobs, homes, health, or loved ones. But the hope we can find in the Bible is a sturdy reality—no matter what is happening in our lives or in the world.

For Christians, our hope is firmly anchored in the cross of Christ. Because He paid the penalty for all our sins, we know that we are fully forgiven and that ultimately our story finishes well—at the portals of heaven! Even now, as we live in the trenches of this world, we are assured that God is in control and He is good.

A Selection From Jesus Today
By Sarah Young

Jesus Today is written from the perspective of Jesus speaking to you, the reader. As with all my books, I relied on the help of the Holy Spirit as I worked—seeking to listen to Jesus throughout the creative process. When I write in this way, I am always selective in my listening. If anything is unbiblical, I reject it. I believe the Bible is the infallible Word of God, and I strive to present to my readers only what is consistent with that unchanging standard. —Sarah Young

Learn to live from a place of resting in Me. Since I—the Prince of Peace—am both with and within you, you can choose to live from this peaceful place of union with Me. This enables you to stay calm in the midst of stressful situations, by re-centering yourself in Me. We can deal with your problems together—you and I—so there is no need to panic. However, the more difficult your circumstances, the more tempting it is for you to shift into high gear and forget My peaceful Presence.

As soon as you realize you have wandered from your place of Peace, return to Me immediately.

Call upon My Name, for this reconnects you with Me and helps you feel safe. Don’t be discouraged by how often you wander from Me. You are endeavoring to form a new habit, and this takes time plus persistent effort. The rewards, though, are well worth your efforts. The more you return to Me—to our resting place—the more peaceful and joyful your life will be.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

—Isaiah 9:6

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. —Philippians 4:13 NKJV

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. —Proverbs 18:10 NKJV

From Jesus TodayTM © 2012 by Sarah Young. Published by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Experience Hope through His Presence with Jesus Today
Sarah Young is quietly leading millions of men and women worldwide on a journey of intimacy with Christ. Her devotional books include the #1 bestseller Jesus Calling, Jesus Calling for Kids, Dear Jesus, and Jesus Lives. Sarah’s newest inspirational devotional, Jesus Today, was written during a very difficult time in her life.

“When I began writing Jesus Today,” Sarah shares, “I was deeply discouraged by the failure of many months of intensive medical treatment to improve my health. However, the longer I worked on the book—focusing on finding hope in Jesus—the more hopeful and encouraged I became. . . I am convinced that if I had been healthier I would not have been able to write this book. I might have been able to write a different book, but I would not have been able to write this one. Jesus Today: Experience Hope Through His Presence definitely came out of the trenches! And it is designed to speak hope into the lives of all its readers.”

This month’s Women of Faith Book Club selection, Jesus Today is 30% off at womenoffaith.com through December – our lowest book club offer yet!

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