Year of the Bible

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“So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?’ He said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.’ He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs’” (John 21:15, NKJV).

Have you ever wondered how to love someone even after they hurt you? After the death of Jesus, some of His disciples, including Peter, went fishing. They had spent almost all night with no success. Early in the morning, an unknown man on the shore told them to throw the net on the other side. Confused, they did. At that moment, Peter immediately knew it wasn’t an ordinary person; it was Jesus. He couldn’t contain his excitement after seeing all the fish, and he jumped out of the boat and swam to shore to see Jesus.

“When Jesus heard what had happened, He withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place” (Matt. 14:13, NIV).

Are you grieving today? This pain cuts to the core and is deeper than just a bad day. It’s bigger than a pint of ice cream or a walk around the block that can handle. Sadly, we may feel as though we must carry these emotions alone. It’s in these times that the support of loved ones, and even complete strangers, is so needed.

“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please” (Isa. 55:11, NKJV).

As an accountant by profession, I have often counseled my clients, wherever appropriate, to prove God’s Word when it comes to finances. I know this also from personal experience.

Several years ago, I was visiting my former church in New York when a call was made for donations for a special project. I debated whether to respond, as I had only $20 in my wallet. I knew that I would need cash to pay the tolls on my way back home to Pennsylvania. As the appeal continued, I made the decision to respond and gave the $20 bill. I figured I could stop at an ATM later to withdraw funds for the trip home.