Living With The Rose

The secret of a closer relationship with Jesus

But how do we accomplish that?

How can we be more like Him?

A Persian fable says one day, a wanderer found a piece of clay. So redolent of sweet perfume. Its odor scented all the room.

“What are thou?” was the quick demand. “Art thou some gem from Samarkand or Spikenard rare in odd disguise?” Or other costly merchandise?”

“Nay, I am but a piece of clay.”

“Then, whence this sweetness, pray?”

“Friend, if the secret I disclose. I have been living with the rose.”

As in the Persian fable, it comes from living close to Him!

(2 Corinthians 3:18).

…living as He would, acting as He would, speaking as He would, and even thinking as He would.

If we don't, no matter how many good qualities we possess or how dynamic we are or how dedicated we are, no matter how good we are with people or what else we may have going for us, if we're not spending time with Jesus, we're not going to be a very good reflection of Him or His love to others.

It’s not about religion or going to church or having the ‘right’ doctrine. It’s not even about sacrifice…. It’s about spending time with the Master!

It’s about going to His Word & letting Him transform you.

Many of us tend to pick up the pace when our workloads and responsibilities increase, and that leads to more stress.

Taking time off and relaxing alone or with family or friends can help relieve the pressure, but friends or family or time alone can't give us what Jesus can.

Jesus said the requirement for a fruitful life is abiding in Him. "Abide in Me, and I in you" (John 15:4).

"Abiding in Jesus" means staying connected with Him by taking time to read His Word and pray and listen to Him for Jesus said, “apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

"By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another."

John 13:35

(… You and me!)

If you don’t know Jesus personally, we invite you to get to know Him. No matter what faith you belong to, He loves you & wants to reach out to you & give you His gift of eternal life.

PRAYER:

“Dear Jesus, I need your light to drive away all darkness. I need your peace to fill and satisfy my heart. I now open the door of my heart and ask You to please come into my life and give me your gift of eternal life. Amen”

Song of Solomon 2:1

“I am the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valleys”

Author: Unknown