Successful living is not defined by what we have or have achieved, it is a life that has fulfilled it's appropriate purpose. The enemy of your soul hates it when you get closer to your purpose, and so he spins a bunch of lies to keep you from it. Addictions stem from believing lies. Lies like, "You need to numb the pain" Or "You are not really an addict and can quit any time you choose to" or even, "You're in so deep there is no hope for you." God's Word through His Holy Spirit wants to shed His light in the darkness of your entrapment and set you free. We're in Proverbs 20, get your bibles ready and your heart in a posture to learn, Jesus is setting His children free!

The world loves stories that end with a "happily ever after", yet there are many situations where this doesn't ring true. The story of the cross seemed like a story that ends in a tragedy and heartbreak, we see hope quickly being lost. It is heartbreaking when we put ourselves in the shoes of Mary, and the disciples who are watching their beloved leader brutally murdered, where is the hope? Where is the happily ever after? Before we jump ahead to the empty tomb, we have to hear the sorrow of the Savior on the cross as He hangs in my place and yours, so that we can have the happily ever after that He has purchased for us with His blood. Listen closely, the cross is still speaking, it invites you to the Savior's sorrow so you can have sinless joy.

"Who are you looking for?" This was the question the angel asks Mary when she visits the empty tomb. I believe the Holy Spirit is asking His Church this same question today as we make our way to celebrate Resurrection Sunday, "Who are you looking for?" Is it possible that we have lost the faith and joy in our excitement as we feast on the facts of Jesus' glorious resurrection. This special day is not limited to Jesus coming out of the grave, but it finds it fulfilment as we recognize, and respond to the invitation to come out of our graves. Who are you looking for? Come, let's find out!