I'M READING THROUGH REVELATION

And it is really good. I used to not like it because I was afraid of Jesus coming back. I loved my life on earth so much I couldn't imagine not growing up, not going to college, not having my own family, etc. I was also afraid because I wasn't sure when Jesus is coming back. But, God has helped me to anticipate his return. He has told me that heaven is so much better than anything on this earth. So now, I am reading through the book of the Bible that is all about Jesus' return and heaven.

Yesterday, I the parts I read repeatedly referred to Jesus as "the first and the last" and "the one who was, who is, and is to come". It really struck me that Jesus was before time, at the beginning of time, through all of history, now, in the future, at the end of time, and through all of eternity. And he is in our hearts right now, if we believe in him.

Today, I read the parts near the beginning of Revelation when Jesus addresses each of the seven churches. I noticed that he always encouraged them first, pointing out the good fruit in their lives (love, patience, etc.). Then, he reproves them, telling them about their sin. I realized that I need to do that more often: encourage first, then gently bring observations of sin.

I hope this is encouraging! Thanks for reading!

Sarah