What a Wonderful World This Could Be

[Maryanne Winder Lester]

What a Wonderful World this Could Be

How many scripture verses can you recall when faced with a difficult situation, or when you want to praise Him, or when you need guidance? I’ve said it before and it is absolutely true: The Bible holds the answer to every question you could ever ask. When I first found true Salvation in November, 2008, I could quote 3 scripture verses. John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” and there is more to the verse but I didn’t know it then. The full verse is this: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” I never knew these were Jesus’ words.

I could quote Psalm 23 which begins, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” I knew the words to this entire Psalm and I enjoyed reciting it. It made me feel good. I had learned this in Sunday School as a small child. I always said it was my favorite verse of the Bible, but the truth is, it was the only verse I could not only quote, but I could also locate. I also knew the words to the Lord’s Prayer because we recited it every Sunday in church. But, I had no clue as to where it was written in the Bible. I fact, I don’t think I even knew it was written in the Bible. Just to let you know, it is Matthew 6:9-13.

Since receiving the gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ, I have learned many Bible verses and I can recall them when I need them for refreshment, praise, encouragement and explanation. Not only for myself, but for others who need these Words. And I am still learning every day. I have many verses that I now call my favorites, but truthfully, each one has it’s own special place according to it’s own special need. And I have to add this as well, when I am truly in Communion with the Holy Spirit, the same verse can have different meanings and applications at different times, according to what I need to learn at the time.

Today, I want to share a very special verse that is so universal that it applies to every situation and holds the answer to how all of God’s children should live. It is the very definition of the personality of Jesus. It is Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience (longsuffering), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such, there is no law.” Just imagine how this world would be if everyone practiced these attributes of the personality of Jesus. As Sam Cooke wrote in one of his greatest hits, “What a wonderful world this would be!” Or Louis Armstrong sang, “And I think to myself, what a wonderful world.” And finally, Donald Fagan from Steely Dan wrote these words, “What a beautiful world this will be, what a glorious time to be free.” I think I have mentioned before, this scripture is the background I have on my computer. I have recently developed a website called Fruits of the Spirit. This verse is very important to me in my Christian walk. I strive to live these words, every day of my life!

Take a moment today to reflect on this verse and let God speak to you. Do you really understand what each word means? For example, what is the true meaning of Joy? Which of these fruits of the Spirit do you struggle with? At New Birth, our vision is this, “Love like Him, Live like Him, Lead like Him.” In order for us to truly live that vision, we must embrace the fruits of the Spirit and live them every day.

Pray with me.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving me the Holy Spirit as my comforter, guide and teacher. I ask You to give me understanding and wisdom so that I can practice the Fruits of the Spirit every day of my life. Keep my thoughts and actions toward others and myself as a reflection of your most precious gift, Jesus Christ. Teach me through Your Word. When I need guidance, show me Your path. When I am hurting, show me Your comfort. When I am thirsty, show me Your living water. When others look at me, help me to be a reflection of your lovingkindness, so they can see Your glory through me.

In the matchless name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray.

Amen and Halleluiah.

Maryanne Winder Lester

4/22/2010