https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mn_3b2oJBec&list=RDmn_3b2oJBec&start_radio=1
Hope is Alive ~ Kristene Dimarco
Now we do not want you to be uninformed, believers, about those who are asleep [in death], so that you will not grieve [for them] as the others do who have no hope [beyond this present life]. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again [as in fact He did], even so God [in this same way—by raising them from the dead] will bring with Him those [believers] who have fallen asleep in Jesus. ~ 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 AMP
Do you remember how you met your friend who’s helped shape your life and walk with Jesus?
I remember going to her house. Andrea had a servant’s and hostess’ heart. She made sure you never left hungry or thirsty—either physically or spiritually. From the multiple desserts on her counter to the numerous scriptures taped to her walls, Andrea was about filling the whole person. If you had a need—and she was able—she covered it, no questions asked. You’d never know she was a single mom on a tight budget by the generous way she gave. She always believed God would take care of her needs.
Andrea was a spit-fire warrior! She was constantly in prayer. If she knew you were struggling, she would always lead you back to Jesus, to be encouraged and strengthened. She believed her God was able and knew you should believe it, too. Even towards the end of her battle, when, physically, things kept going from bad to worse, Andrea was a fighter! She believed her God was able and would do as He saw fit in her life.
How do you say good-bye to such a strong, bold light?
You send her out in a flood of praises, as you thank God for how He used her to influence your life. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 says we don’t grieve as those who have no hope. Our hope is alive, and His name is Jesus! It hurts to know I can’t call her or go see her. But even if I could, she’d only lead me back to Jesus, and He’s always with me.
If you’re mourning the loss of a loved one, don’t pretend it doesn’t hurt. As a good friend reminded me, fighting your emotions will only cause them to come out in an undesirable way or time. I pray God would comfort you and bring you peace. I pray also that you’d find encouragement in Jesus, our hope and anchor of our souls.
This hope [this confident assurance] we have as an anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whatever pressure bears upon it]—a safe and steadfast hope that enters within the veil [of the heavenly temple, that most Holy Place in which the very presence of God dwells] ~ Hebrews 6:19 AMP
©Heather Potts 2021
