Pastor Chuck Swindoll teaches from 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 about how you can prepare for Christ’s return. Take hold of God’s grace extended to you and pursue holiness while you wait.
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Read Matthew 11:28–30
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
Matthew 11:28–30
Here are two simple statements that I’m hoping will help you in your struggle to put your painful memories and shameful thoughts behind you.
First, those most unqualified to condemn you, will. Count on it. Those with hearts heavier than the stones in their hands will be the first to throw them. Stay away from modern-day Pharisees, who love few things more than exposing your sin and rubbing your nose in shame. Make certain you keep plenty of distance between you and those who would self-righteously throw stones at you.
Second, the One most qualified to condemn you, won’t. You can count on this as well. Stay close to Him. Because by staying close to Him you will discover that you can recover more quickly. Draw near and confess your sin to the One who is qualified to condemn but doesn’t. And like the woman mentioned in John 8:1–11, you’ll be able to go on with your life enjoying a new freedom and purpose for living.
If you’re reading this and feeling the weight of your own shameful past or stubborn sinful ways, I invite you to come to the Saviour. He’s the only One perfectly qualified to judge you and condemn you, but because of what His death accomplished He is ready to forgive and set you free.
His invitation to freedom requires your response. It isn’t automatic. Being delivered from shame’s shackles necessitates your coming to the precipice of the cross and acknowledging your need for Jesus. He will be there to cleanse you and make you whole. The “unforced rhythms of grace” will truly and completely set you free. So, what are you waiting for?
Taken from The Owner’s Manual for Christians by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2009 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Used by permission of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. www.harpercollinschristian.com
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