When my wife and I were shopping in Melbourne, we saw a man selling honey.
The sign said "The Best Honey in Melbourne," and I imagine it was.
But no one was buying.
Maybe it was because the jars were too large (OK, they were not as large as this drawing, but you get the idea).
Maybe it was the location of his store, or the price he was charging. Who knows for sure?
But it got me thinking. "What is it like to have the best product and no interest?"
I think it is sometimes like that with the Gospel. I know it is the best news that has ever been announced.
But why aren't people interested?
Maybe I am not focusing on what they would be interested in.
Here are some of the benefits of following Jesus that I thought of. Would these be of interest to your friends? If not make your own list.
Forgiveness of Sins
Through Jesus, we receive complete forgiveness and a fresh start, no matter our past.
"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace." – Ephesians 1:7
Peace in Difficult Times
Jesus gives us a deep peace that goes beyond circumstances, even in life’s storms.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." – John 14:27
Purpose and Meaning in Life
Following Jesus gives our lives eternal significance and a greater purpose beyond ourselves.
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." – Ephesians 2:10
Eternal Life
Jesus offers the promise of life after death with Him forever.
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." – Romans 6:23
Unconditional Love
God’s love for us is constant and unchanging, no matter what we do.
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." – Romans 8:38-39
Strength in Weakness
Jesus gives us strength when we feel weak and unable to carry on.
"But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Guidance for Life
Jesus, through His Word and the Holy Spirit, directs us on the right path.
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." – Psalm 119:105
A Loving Community
Believers in Jesus become part of a worldwide family, supporting and encouraging one another.
"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." – John 13:35
Freedom from Fear
With Jesus, we don’t have to live in fear of the future, death, or uncertainty.
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." – 2 Timothy 1:7
Joy That Lasts
Unlike temporary happiness, Jesus offers a joy that remains even in hardships.
"I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." – John 15:11
Before I go, let's pray:
Lord Jesus, thank you for the many things you have done for us. It would take all my life to list them all. Guide me as I talk with my friends to point out the benefits which they would find most helpful. Amen.
Have a great week telling your friends the benefits you experience in following Jesus. I would love to hear how they respond.