When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”
And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
“But you,” He asked them, “who do you say that I am?”     Matthew 16:13-15 HCSB

I realize looking back that who Jesus has been in my life has changed over the years. As a young child He was someone I learned about and sang about in Sunday School and church. I accepted Him as my Savior at the age of 11. I credit a reverence for Him and a healthy fear of my parents for staying out of trouble in my high school and early college years.

For a period of time in my early adulthood, however, He was like 911. He was someone I called on when things got really tough. He was someone I thought enough about a couple Sundays a month to go to church. He certainly wasn’t first in my life, but I knew He was there.

As I grew older, He became more important until I finally I understood who He truly is. Now for me, it was a wonderful thing. You see once I wrapped my head around who He is I rededicated my life to Him. I put Him in first place. Instead of hoping He will tag along, I let Him lead.

So, as you read this, I would like for you to take a moment to consider who Jesus is to you. Is He someone you think about every now and then or do you trust in Him with all your heart and acknowledge Him in all your ways (Proverbs 3:5-6)? Is He your refuge and your fortress, your God in whom you trust (Psalm 91:2)?

Is He the One you love with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind (Matthew 22:37)? Or do you love Him half-heartedly? Do you lack a true commitment to Him? Do you worship and praise Him when it’s convenient or when you can find time?

I’ve lived years of my life not putting Him first. I know what it’s like to not have time for Him. I know what it’s like to be so busy during the week that you use Sunday to “catch up” on things around the house. I know what it’s like to just want that one day to rest.

But then I realized I find my rest in Him. When I am weary, He gives me rest (Matthew 11:28). I realized He is all I need. When I stay focused on Him, He provides all I need (Matthew 6:33). I realized no one will ever love me like He loves me, He willingly suffered horrible shame, torture and death on a cross for me (John 15:13).

I know He brings me through difficult times, so they do not overwhelm me. Isaiah 43:2 says, “I will be with you when you pass through the waters, and when you pass through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. You will not be scorched when you walk through the fire and the flame will not burn you.”

I also know He is a firm disciplinarian. I know that my sin not only disappoints Him, but unrepentant or deliberate sin can bring about His fury and His wrath (Hebrews 10:26). But if I am faithful to repent of my sin, He will forgive me of my sin and cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

As you read this, I don’t know who Jesus is to you. I do know the peace and joy I have found in Him since I have surrendered my life to Him. Once I gave it all over to Him, I realized He is the life and the truth, and the way and He brings me to the Father (John 14:6). He is my intercessor. This is why I pray to the Father in His name.

He wants to be all of that and more for you if you will only let Him.

Have a great day!