“Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible” (1 Peter 1:8). This reflects the experience of all Christians today, but the 11 Apostles needed to be preparedfor life and ministry without the physical presence of Jesus. As people who live by faith not sight, our encouragement comes from knowing God by knowing Jesus and living in constant fellowship with him through prayer. We return to the evening of the last supper and the teaching and promises of our Lord.

Outline:

• Seeing God
• The Gift of Greater Works
• Ask and Receive

All people begin the spiritual journey from the same starting place: alienation from God due to sin. In a tremendous display of mercy, grace, and love, God provided one means of reconciliation, forgiveness, and eternal life. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life, and while the offer of salvation is open to all people, no one will enter heaven apart from faith in Jesus (John 14:6).

A realistic view of life, the view presented by the Bible andexperienced by all people, recognizes that everyone faces some challenges in this world. Though not immune from living in a world marred by sin, Christians are marked by the comfort and assurance that draw strength from deeply rooted faith in Jesus and unwavering confidence in the promises of God.

Outline:

· Trust in theEver-Present God

· Heaven: The Glorious Destination