This past week we heard the news that Phil Robertson has gone to meet his maker. You may wonder why I think it matters to us or maybe you are one of the very few that are not really sure who this man Phil Robertson even is.

Phil Robertson, the sinner and saved. Husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather was a humble follower of Our Lord Jesus Christ. He stood on a stage often to share his love for Christ. He stood with our country and prayed for the salvation of all he encountered. Phil shares the story of his forgiveness and has been a light to many on their path to salvation.

I have seen his humble words time and time again on social media and in news reports. “When I die, do not cry”

For sure; right! We dont want our families to cry for us because we will be there in heaven with our Father the Lord of Our Salvation. We will be with Phil singing praises to God everyday.

But what about now? Are we using the fruits of the Holy Spirit to spread the truth of Gods love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness.

In my growth and development of my personal relationship with Jesus I have been asked to take a ‘test’ to determine the strengths I have with the fruits of the spirit. What fruit has God given me an abundance of so that I can give back to others in need.

Now please don’t get me wrong. Through this self-reflection I have learned about my strengths and weaknesses. I have learned where I might struggle and need prayer. These refection’s actually helped me take courage; a leap of faith and launch this page. I pray that God continues to use me as His vessel to share the good news.

Back to the fruits of the spirit. As I began to study Galatians 5:22-23 (list the fruit of the Spirit) God opened my eyes to not only what we can do for others but what God has done for us; for me.

Peace: this is 2 fold – Peace with God and peace because God. Because there are many things around us that God created that can bring us peace. A still lake in the morning. The dew on the leaves or the sound of the songbirds and the mighty buck standing majestically. With God – He opens our eyes to stop and see these things. He clears the way for our heart to experience the peace.

Rest: Matthew 11:28-30 Then Jesus said; “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear and the burden I give you is light.”

Our God Almighty wants us to experience peace that unfolds so much rest for our spirit, mind and hearts. Let’s not miss living confidently in the peaceful, fruitful, abundant life made available to us in Jesus.

Father God, we thirst for peace and rest through you. Fill us right now with overflowing peace, rest, hope and joy that is ours right now from you when we ask because we are your children today; on this earth.

Restore our seary souls. Sustain us in our difficult times. Open our eyes to your peace and rest. Help us know you are near and open our hearts and ears to hear your whispers. Settle us today and take our scattered minds and give us peace through your truth.

Jesus remind us today of what is to come. The day we will receive our crown of life. The day we will forever eat from the tree of life. The day we will be in paradise with You. Worshiping alongside Phil Robertson and all those we have shown your miracles and salvation to.

We love You, Lord and ask in Jesus’ name for the peace and rest we have received because we are your children. Amen