If you believe with all your heart [if you have a conviction, full of joyful trust, that Jesus is the Messiah

and accept Him as the Author of your salvation in the kingdom of God, giving Him your obedience, then] you may.

And he replied, “I do believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”

Acts 8:37 THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE

Walk in Jesus’ steps – suffer for His sake.

Want to live like Jesus? Then avoid sin, deception, and retaliation.

He was wounded for your transgressions, suffering for your sake.

The Via Dolorosa was not a cake walk – neither is the life of faith.

Want to follow Me? Then trade your selfish ambition for a cross.

When splinters pierce your shoulder, pray through trouble to My will.

Obey though it is difficult, and I promise to make Myself real to you.

Smile through your tears, believing the sun is shining on sorrow’s other side.

Believe Me – keep running the race until you reach the finish line.

Wait on Jesus’ strength – soar for heaven’s sake.

Do not be like Simon – bitter, captivated by sin, greedy, egotistical.

Turn from all wickedness and turn  to Me – live a liberated life!

Let Me unlock evil’s handcuffs and you will experience ultimate freedom!

Unlike human beings, I do not ever get tired or worn out.

When you are exhausted and feel like quitting, find new strength in Me.

Let My Spirit Wind enable you to soar above mediocrity.

Care more than others think wise – have a heart!

Risk more than others think safe – go out on a limb with Me!

Dream more than others think practical – envision what I can do!

Expect more than others think possible – rest assured of My ability!

Believe Me – keep running the race with grace and dignity.

Worship Jesus your Savior – surrender for your sake.

Trust Me to forgive you – let Me make you right with your Creator.

Abandon yourself to the Captain of the mighty hosts of heaven.

Yield allegiance to the King of kings until He reigns supreme.

Let Me save you from the penalty of sin – you do not have to go to hell.

Let Me save you from the power of sin – I can break your bad habits.

Let Me save you from sin’s presence – that will make heaven heaven.

I can keep you from stumbling in the dark alleys of the sad world.

I can lead you by My Spirit into a joyous, light-filled world – if you will only let Me.

Be flexible clay in the Potter’s hand and I will sculpt you into My image.

Believe Me – keep running the race until you see My face.

© 2013 Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity