What are some of the here and now benefits of being a Christian?

One of my goals in writing my blog is to talk about the everyday benefits of believing in Jesus.  Salvation is important but for many people, especially those who are younger, salvation is so far in the future that it isn't really tangible.  However there are many everyday benefits that I think a lot of people overlook.  Here is one example.

1 John 1:1-4(NKJV)

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life—

the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—

that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 

And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.

First off, I love how John starts this chapter.  He makes it clear that he is giving a first person testimony.  He is saying "if was there.  I witnessed this with my own eyes".  I love that.  Now you can chose to believe him or not, but at least you know where he is coming from. 

Now back to my point.  At the end of the passage above John tells us why he is writing this testimony.  "…that your joy may be full".  Being a Christian should be a joyful experience.  Now does that mean we are happy every second of every day?  Of course not.  But it does mean that if we are truly following our faith, we will be joyful when many around us see no reason for us to be joyful at all. 

Why are we joyful when others see no reason for it?  Because we are standing on the promises of God and we have total faith that God comes through.  Now one might ask, why do you have faith like that?  I can only answer for me.  I have seen too many times in my life where God has come through when nobody else could see a way out.  So I have personally experienced it….and you can too!

How?  You start by asking Jesus to guide your life.  Have a conversation with Jesus.  Let Him know where you are at and what you need.  Then just trust Him to lead you there.  Don't put it off.  Talk to Jesus now.  "Dear Jesus….."

After that then get into God's word on a daily basis.  It may not make sense at first but again, just have faith.  God has promised His helper, the Holy Spirit, to guide us in our understanding of Scripture.  The more you read it the more you will get it.

And finally, put what you read into action.  Action is the physical proof of our faith.  As an example Scripture tells us to "glory in our tribulations".  Why?  Because smiling in the face of adversity is an outward manifestation of our inner faith.  It let's God know we have been paying attention and that we get it. 

So back to the text above.  "…that your joy may be full."  One of the benefits of following Jesus is that you will have joy in your life no matter what the other circumstances are.  It's that peace that surpasses all understanding that Scripture tells us about.  Want to experience that peace?  Then follow Jesus!