"Stand Firm in the Faith"

FOCUS ON JESUS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH

When Peter looked at the storm and started to sink, he could have tried to make it back to the boat on his own.  He was an able swimmer, so this  might even have been his natural response. (John 21:7) Yet, instead of relying on himself, he refocused on Jesus and accepted Jesus' help. If sense that our faith is weakening, we should imitate Peter's example. But how can we do that? 

Just as Peter refocused on Jesus, we too must 'look intently at the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus." (Read Hebrews 12:2, 3)  Of course, we cannot literally see Jesus as Peter did. Instead, we "look intently" at Jesus by examining his teachings and actions and then following them closely.  Consider some steps we can take based on the model Jesus set. If we put these into practice, we will receive the help we need to make our faith firm. 

Strengthen your confidence in the Bible.   Jesus was convinced that the Bible is God's Word, which provides the best guidance in life.  (John 17:17) Following Jesus' example, we must read the Bible daily, study it, and meditate on what we learn. Along with general Bible study, dig into topics  about which you may have questions. To illustrate, you might increase your conviction that the end of this system of things really is near by studying in detail the Scriptural proof that we live in the last days. Strengthen you trust in the Bible's promises for the future by  investigating its many prophecies that have already come true. Develop your confidence in the practical value o the Bible by considering examples of how the Bible improves people's lives. -1 Thessalonians 2:13. 

Focus on blessings Jehovah has promised.   By fixing his sights on the joy that was set before him," Jesus was able to remain faithful despite extreme tests.  (Hebrews 12:2)  He was never distracted  by what the world could offer.  (Matthew 4:8-10)  (note: of course he was not distracted, he was a perfect man, not subject to sin as we are, so it would easier for him to resist Satan and his tests.) You can imitate Jesus by meditating on the wonderful promises Jehovah has made to you. Put yourself in the picture by writing down or making a drawing of what you hope to do once God has removed this wicked system.  Make a list of people whom you look forward to meeting when they are resurrected and what you would like to discuss with them. See these as God's promises not to just mankind in general but to you personally.  

Note:  These people you may want to meet, may not make it to the new Paradise, not everyone will. Jesus will be judging and choosing those he deems worthy of going to this new Paradise earth. 

Next time: "Stand Firm in the Faith" - FOCUS ON JESUS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH

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