Charted

What is Charted?

Like a master surveyor, Jesus gives us clear directions to find a fulfilling, purpose-filled relationship with Himself - a map to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Charted is a daily devotional written by the junior class at Fountainview Academy (Class of 2019). Based on the book Steps to Christ, this book explores the path to the Originator and Provider of Genuine Joy. We don't have to be confused about the way. The certainty is in the journey: divinely Charted.

But let us keep our eyes fixed upon Christ, and He will preserve us.
Looking unto Jesus, we are safe. Nothing can pluck us out of His hand.
In constantly beholding Him, we “are changed into the same image
from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians
3:18. – Steps to Christ, pg. 72
Hot steam carries the strong scent of cooked apples. Large
bowls of fresh applesauce sit on the kitchen table, waiting for their
delicious contents to be poured into jars and processed. Several
pots, varying in size and content, stand on the kitchen stove waiting
for action. Clean, clear glass canning jars are ready to receive their
flavorful treasure.
When everything is ready, we start the operation. Every jar
must be filled with steaming hot applesauce. Metal canning lids are
then retrieved from the small pot in which they have been boiled. Jar
rings are loosely placed on each glass container to ensure the jar lids
stay in place and properly seal. Once preparation is complete, the
brimming jars are set into the large, seething canning kettle and then
boiled to kill any contaminating germ. The scalding water must be the
right temperature to insure thorough sterilization and proper sealing.
Once the jars and contents are completely sterile, they are placed on a
towel to cool and seal. The process of preservation is complete.
God is at work to preserve us from sin, and this process
is not always easy. We have to be put through uncomfortable and
sometimes scalding trials and struggles, but it’s more than worth it.
The apostle Peter wrote, “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning
the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing
happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s
sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with
exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:12, 13 NKJV). I want to be willing to let God
preserve me from sin, even when it’s difficult.