13. For 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.

​There’s an old legend that says that every time a sinner is converted, the angels of heaven enter his or her name in the margin of a large Bible, opposite the Bible passage which brought the individual to faith. It’s only a legend, (perhaps an amalgam inspired by Luke 15:10 and the “book of life” [Philippians 4:3; Revelation  3,13,17,20,21,22]?), but if it were true, how wide would the margins have to be to fit all the names of the redeemed opposite John chapter 3, verse 16?!
 
How can we ever sufficiently thank God for the ever-flowing stream of comfort and hope that permeates our lives through the divine assurance of this crowning jewel of the Bible? When we are weary from trials, assailed by doubts, when our faith reaches breaking-point beneath the burden of anxiety and distress; how often have these words of blessed assurance melted our fears like candle wax, and soothed our souls like the warmth of spring sunshine on our backs!
 
John 3:16 is God’s love note to you and me. In these few beautiful words, God reassures us that, no matter what happens, he is the eternal lover of our souls. In fact, his love for us is so great that he gave the most precious Gift he could, his only begotten Son, so that we may live with him in eternal joy and glory.
 
My recommendation to every Christian is to have this precious reminder displayed in clear sight in your homes, your workplaces, and carry it on a card or a tract on your person. Fridge magnets, posters, wall tapestries, tracts, cards, chopping boards, diaries, (a tattoo on the back of your eyelids), will provide a timely reminder that when the going gets tough, you will find peace in our blessed Redeemer’s comforting assurance.
 
A hint – don’t just read it; say it out loud and let the words be music to your ears, and the vibration in your chest ripple through your mind, body, and soul.
 
Because this is God’s promise to you, you can stake your life on it. Be blessed my dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” Say it; feel it; believe it, and smile because you know it’s true!
 
With love,
Pastor Greg
Thursday 30th April 2020.

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