4 Encouragements From Jude

But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. —Jude 20, 21

Welcome, 🌿

Recently, I was encouraged by ministry on these verses. I'd love to share what stood out to me as I reflected on them for our mutual encouragement. Pour a cup of tea or coffee and join me for a few minutes. 🙂

Jude writes about difficult days in the last times. We see evidence of this all around us—broken families, troubled hearts, uncertainty in the world, and frequent reports of illness and sorrow. In the midst of these realities, Jude gently directs our gaze back to Christ.

I love how Jude begins, "Beloved.” What a tender way to address God's people. Before he gives any exhortation, he reminds them that they are dearly loved.

What is his encouragement?

Be occupied with Christ.

How are we to be occupied with Christ?

As I read these verses, four simple words stand out: building, praying, keeping, and looking.

Building yourselves up on your most holy faith reminds me that faith is learning to trust the Lord more fully. With each trial, each answer to prayer, and each reminder of His faithfulness, our confidence in Him grows. We become increasingly settled in the knowledge that He is in control and working all things for our good and according to His perfect purpose.

Praying in the Holy Spirit, coming to God in dependence upon the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide our prayers and draw our hearts closer to the Lord. It is prayer that seeks God's will and draws us into closer fellowship with Him. What a privilege to also bring our thoughts, burdens, joys, and concerns to our Father, who is always ready to hear us.

Keeping yourselves in the love of God brought to mind a beautiful illustration I’d heard before. Imagine sunlight streaming through a window. If you want to remain in the warmth of that sunlight, you must move as it moves across the room. In the same way, the Lord invites us to walk closely with Him—not rushing ahead and not lagging behind, but enjoying His presence day by day.

"In Your presence is fullness of joy." (Psalm 16:11)

And then Jude lifts our eyes heavenward.

Looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. One day, the Lord Himself will come and take His people home. What mercy that will be! What joy to see the One we love face to face.

Until then, may our hearts be occupied with Christ, our eyes fixed on Him, watching, anticipating that day.

Pause and Reflect:

Which of these four words speaks most to your heart today?

A Quiet Prayer:

Loving Father, thank you for lifting my eyes heavenward today. Help me to be occupied with You and not be distracted by the things of this life.

Steeped in God’s love, 🌸

Evelyn