The comfort of knowing

'This is my comfort in my affliction,
that your promise gives me life." ( Psalm 119:50 ESV)

Can you imagine how Mary Magdalene felt when Jesus appeared to her at the tomb? The initial fear and confusion turns to an incredible sense of peace as she realizes who stands before her.

Have you ever walked out of church thinking to yourself "Wow, that is exactly what I needed to hear "? I believe that is exactly what Mary Magdalene felt when she heard Jesus say her name. She was distraught over not knowing where they had taken His body. We get distraught over the events and the culture of this world. It is not merely enough to struggle on our own. We need the Truth, the Word, to help us have that same feeling of peace that Mary felt. How do we know God's love for us unless we hear his voice?

I mentioned coming out of church and that's an important statement. God instructs us to worship with other believers. I know I have many times read a passage in the Bible and not thought twice about it's meaning. But to have that same passage put into real life meaning makes a difference. We need to hear the Word on a regular basis and understand how a passage is related to the rest of the Word. And yes, many times we just need to hear the Word from the pulpit where we aren't distracted and it can sink in.

When God speaks to us at that moment, we feel that no one else exists, that it's just me and God, and He is calling my name and letting me know His promise is the truth.