More Reasons to Celebrate

In review of John 3:16 it says, “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Bottom Line:

God loves us so much that he would give up his one and only Son.  Whoever believes and has faith in Him will have eternal life.

What this means to me:

This verse reminds me that God loved me and those in the world around me so much, that he would give up his one and only Son. Such that whoever believes and has faith in his Son, will not perish, but have an eternal life with him. Christmas time often brings stress and pressure as folks prepare for gifts and celebrations. In truth Christmas is about the greatest news ever. The angels in announcing the birth of Jesus told the shepherds, “I bring you good news of great joy, and it’s for everybody.” It was a celebration of the news that God loves us. The most famous verse in the Bible, John 3:16, says, “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (NIV). That’s why he sent Jesus. God was on a mission of love. The Bible tells me God is love. It is his nature. God created the entire universe just so he could create the human race, just so he could create me, just so he could love me. God made me to love me. And his love isn’t based on what I do. His love is based on who he is. God is love. Secondly, God is with me. I may not always feel his presence, but that doesn’t make it any less true. The Bible says Jesus’ name was to be called Emmanuel, which means “God with us.” God will never abandon me. Jesus truly was “God with us.” And he is still present today.  Having God near, helps to remove my fear. This means that I don’t have to worry or be anxious about what’s coming next. Thirdly, God is for me. He’s on my side. He wants me to succeed. In fact, Jesus said this: “God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:17 NLT). Many people are afraid of God because of their guilt. But the Bible says Jesus didn’t come to condemn the world. He came to save it. That’s good news! We need to celebrate this Christmas. Jesus’ birth was, and is, good news of great joy. And it’s for everybody, regardless of their background. It’s good news of great joy for all people because God says, “I love you, I’m with you, and I’m for you.”  In Summary, it’s important for me to remember  that God loves, is with, and is for me.