Joni Eareckson Tada: Sharing Hope

The Riches of Christ

Episode Summary

God’s supply chain is rooted in the vast abundance of Jesus Christ.

Episode Notes

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The Hope of Heaven – Drawing from personal experiences and vivid imagery from Scripture, Joni Eareckson Tada helps readers grasp just how rich the hope of heaven is. She helps us understand why the Bible uses symbols to describe it and gives helpful answers to questions many readers may have. She paints a compelling vision of heaven as a place of restoration, beauty, and perfect communion with God – a vision that will rekindle our excitement about the true "happily ever after" that awaits us. 

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Episode Transcription

SHAUNA: Welcome to Joni Eareckson Tada: Sharing Hope. This week, Joni, I know you’re sharing more than a few fresh insights on how we can get ready for heaven. And how our trials can prepare us for a happier eternity. I realize that’s a tough assignment, because our natural response is not even call it a trial; it’s an irritating hassle; it’s an aggravation, or a pain-in-the-neck. But we Christians should know better—shouldn’t we, Joni? 

            JONI: That’s right, yup!

            SHAUNA: And I love the way you affirm that God has more than enough grace for us to patiently endure our trials.

            JONI: And you know, Shauna, what you said right there, is a wonderful paraphrase of Philippians 4:19: “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Now, true, this verse can be about our basic needs, like food, clothing, resources to live, and all that, but it pertains also to trials and afflictions. So, if some big trial is looming in front of you? God will supply everything you need to face it. And He’ll do it according to the riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Or, you could say it this way: “My God will use His glorious riches to give you everything you need, and He’ll do it through Christ Jesus.” Wow, what a promise! I mean, when we are troubled by many trials, feeling anxious or overwhelmed, God promises to give us everything we need to come out the other side, all the better for it. He promises He’ll richly give everything we need through Jesus. 

            Like, okay, last week I discovered a pressure sore on my left heel, something that could lead to a very serious ulcer [especially since I have so much edema in my feet]. I kept anxiously wondering what could have caused it [because I’m older now and my skin doesn’t heal like it used to]. And so, I said, “Oh, God please, please; I need wisdom here with this pressure sore.” And then I realized—wait a minute—I just got new shoes [I’m certain they are the culprit]! So, I got rid of those new shoes and I put on my old slippers. Now, you might think that’s a small thing, but to me, a pressure sore is a big deal. So, no matter how small or great a trial, when I face it? I’m bolstered by Philippians 4:19. It is such a wonderful promise and a powerful reminder of God’s limitless provision. God’s supply chain is rooted in the vast abundance of Jesus Christ. But the “glorious riches in Christ” are far more than God’s unlimited resources—someone has said that “they are the inexhaustible treasury of blessings that belong to believers because we are united to Christ.” What a thought, wow. When it comes to your needs, the measure of God’s giving is the immeasurable fullness of Jesus Himself. He is the biggest blessing in any trial.

            SHAUNA: Oh, amen, Joni! And thank you for helping us see exactly why— when trials do come, why you turn to the promise of Philippians 4:19. I just know our listening friends are going to join me in praying that God will clear up that pressure sore in good time.

            JONI: Oh, I hope they do. Thank you for praying!

            SHAUNA: And may you Joni, may you find a good pair of new shoes that won’t cause a problem.

            JONI: Okay!

            SHAUNA: And listening friends, I know you’ll want to read Joni’s new booklet, “The Hope of Heaven.” The insights you’ve heard today are from this special volume, so go to joniradio.org today and ask for your free gift, “The Hope of Heaven.” And reflecting on our time together today, oh, I sure like that sentence, “God’s supply chain is rooted in the vast abundance of Jesus Christ.” Now that’s sharing hope. Remember friends, order Joni’s booklet for free at joniradio.org.

 

© Joni and Friends