How to Find Jesus with The McClures
Realigning your perspective
Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us, doesn’t it? Whether it’s a health crisis, a relationship struggle or just the daily grind wearing us down, we all face moments that test our faith. In a recent interview on Family Life Radio, worship leaders Paul and Hannah McClure share very candid conversation offer practical solutions to some of the pain points many of us encounter on our faith journey.
When life gets tough, our natural instinct might be to pull away, to retreat into ourselves. But Paul suggests the opposite: lean in closer to God. Paul McClure said, “The way we navigate any time of life is just to press in to that and to Jesus.” But “pressing in” is a call to action.
In the Book of James we’re encouraged, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8 NKJV). It’s a two-way street. When we make the effort to seek God, He promises to meet us where we are.
So, how do we press into Jesus? Spend time in prayer, immerse yourself in Scripture, and seek moments of quiet where you can truly listen to what God is saying to you.
God’s Faithfulness = Spiritual Anchor
Paul also touched on the importance of remembering past experiences where God has shown His faithfulness. “We have testimonies of when Hannah was in ICU, God pulled her through and God pulled us through, and thousands of instances like that,” he said.
When we recall these moments, it serves as a spiritual anchor, grounding us in God’s unchanging nature. The Bible encourages the practice of remembrance. Psalm 77:11-12 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds” (NIV).
When you’re going through a difficult time, take a moment to reflect on the ways God has come through for you in the past. It’s a powerful way to reignite your faith and trust in His promises.
Stay Rooted in Community
Hannah emphasized the value of community, “I need to stay connected to Jesus. I need to stay connected to the people of Jesus and not isolate myself.”
In a world where isolation is becoming more common, her words serve as a timely reminder. “In that isolation,” Paul notes, “we get judgy, and we lose that human aspect of people. And then when we’re with them, we see, ‘Oh, that’s why you’re saying that’ or ‘that’s why you’re doing that.’”
Hebrews 10:25 encourages us not to give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing. Community provides us with accountability, encouragement and a fuller understanding of God’s love. It’s easy to drift away, especially when we disagree on certain theological points, but Hannah reminds us that connection is crucial.
“I feel like connection is probably my biggest word right now,” she said, “staying connected to Jesus and people.”
Avoiding the Distractions
Hannah also spoke about the distractions that can pull us away from God. “There’s such a temptation to look for answers anywhere but Jesus – anywhere but the Word of God right now. Any time I get on social media, I can feel that anxiety of like, I need my voice to be heard,” she said.
In a world clamoring for our attention, it’s easy to lose focus on what truly matters. Jesus said, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33 NIV).
When we prioritize God above all else, everything else falls into place. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the noise and distractions, remember to seek first the kingdom of God.
Your Direct Line to God
Both Paul and Hannah mentioned prayer as a cornerstone in their relationship with God. “Prayer is a big part of our relationship with God,” Paul said.
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (NIV).
Prayer is our direct line to God, and it’s available to us at all times.
Prayer is more than just asking God for things; it’s an ongoing dialogue that allows us to share our deepest fears, joys and hopes with Him.
Finding Jesus in the midst of life’s challenges may not be easy, but Paul and Hannah McClure offer us some practical steps to guide us as we navigate the ups and downs of our faith journey.
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