Government of Jesus

"John 12:12-36

Are you troubled by something you are facing? Are you distressed by some trial in your life? If you are, you have a leader who understands. Jesus said ‘my soul is troubled and distressed’ (v.27a, AMP).

Jesus gives us a model of how to respond to suffering in our lives and to a suffering world. Then, as now, was a time of crisis. Jesus said, ‘the world is in crisis’ (v.30, MSG).

At the time of the Feast of Passover, ‘the great crowd’ came to Jerusalem (v.12). Josephus estimated that around 2.7 million people would assemble. This may well be an exaggeration. Nevertheless, it was a massive festival and there must have been a great sense of excitement and expectation.

At the time of Jesus, people were awaiting the Messiah. They were looking for a human king, in the line of David, who would free them from their oppressors. As Jesus enters Jerusalem he is seen to be that king: ‘Blessed is the King of Israel!’ (v.13b). The crowd probably saw Jesus as a military king and were hoping for an immediate liberation from Roman rule.

Then, as now, there were different attitudes to the government. The Pharisees (v.19) took the view that Roman occupation, oppressive though it might be, must be endured until God removed it. The Sadducees favoured cooperation with the government. The Zealots were the most popular with the people. They wanted a violent revolt led by a messianic king.

Jesus is indeed the King. But he did not ride into Jerusalem on a stallion. He came in humility on a donkey. He is a different type of leader: ‘See, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt’ (v.15b). He is the messianic king but not a military one. This acted parable was designed to correct the misguided expectations of the crowds and show the city of Jerusalem the way of peace.

He came as the victorious King – not by doing violence to the oppressors but by having violence done to him. He says, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified’ (v.23) – and yet he is talking about the cross. “I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die’ (vv.32–33).

We see an insight here into the inner struggle in Jesus’ heart as he faces his imminent trial, suffering and death. ‘Now my heart is troubled and what shall I say? “Father, save me from this hour”? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!’ (vv.27–28a).

The victory of Jesus came not through military force but through his self-sacrificial death, which defeated the demonic powers (v.31). The death of Jesus signifies judgment on the world, the overthrow of evil, the glorification of Jesus and a drawing of all people to him.

Here, indeed, was a different kind of victorious king. Jesus not only fulfilled the prophecies about the messianic King, he also fulfilled the prophecies about the suffering servant. He brought the two lines of prophecy together.

One day Jesus will return as the triumphant King to rule and reign for all eternity. In the meantime, we are called to be light in the darkness. If you live under the leadership of Jesus ‘then the light will be within you, and shining through your lives. You’ll be children of light’ (36, MSG).

Lord, thank you for the example of leadership through humility and self-sacrifice. Help me to serve you in such a way that my life brings light to a dark world."

1. Lord, thank You for always instilling in my heart to bring light.

2. Praise God for keeping my busy, and a good kind of busy at that. 

3. Thank You, Lord, for short but happy moments.

Every Knee Will Bow

"Psalm 65:1-13

Government of God

Do you realise how good God is? He loves you and wants you to enjoy his blessings today in your life. This psalm is all about the goodness of God. It paints a beautiful picture of what life can look like when lived under God’s rule. It helps us to meditate on his goodness.

God hears your prayers (v.2), he forgives your sins, even in those times in your life when you may feel ‘overwhelmed by sins’ (v.3). God’s forgiveness is amazing.

‘We are filled with the good things’ (v.4) being in his presence. He gives us ‘hope’ (v.5b) and ‘joy’ (v.8b).

We see his great love in the way he treats creation (the watering of the land, the provision of corn, crops, flocks, and so on, vv.9–13).

We don’t live in a society directly governed by God, but through Christ you have a direct relationship with God in your own personal life. You can follow his rule, and experience the blessing of God’s presence. This is one of the ways in which you can experience ‘the kingdom of God’ in your life.

Thank you, Lord, for your amazing goodness. Thank you that one day your kingdom will come and every knee will bow before Jesus and he will inherit the kingdoms of the earth and will rule rightly in a ‘new creation’."

1. Thank You simply for Jesus. Thank You that I have a direct relationship with God through Jesus.

2. Hallelujah for a great trip today. Although it rained, it went smoothly.

3. Thank You for always being with me in the perfect timing.

Prayer: In His Timing

"John 11:45-12:11

Persistent prayer

God never forgets a single prayer you pray, even though you may forget. Things may have happened to you today as a result of prayers that you prayed years ago and you have forgotten all about them. But God is still working on them in his timing. Keep stacking up the prayers. Persevering prayer prevails.

Under the old covenant, the ark of God was the place where God was supremely present, and it was the location of God’s glory. Yesterday we read that, as a result of the Philistines capturing the ark, Eli’s daughter-in-law named her son Ichabod, which means ‘no glory’ for ‘the glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured’ (4:22).

We sometimes have to wait a long time for the Lord to act and answer our prayers. ‘It was a long time, twenty years in all … all the people of Israel mourned and sought after the Lord’ (7:2). We think we have prayed for a long time if we have prayed for a year, but they prayed for twenty years for their country before God acted.

The path to deliverance from the Philistines began for the people of God with a return to the Lord with all their heart. Samuel said, ‘ “If you are truly serious about coming back to God, clean house. Get rid of the foreign gods and fertility goddesses, ground yourselves firmly in God, worship him and him alone, and he’ll save you from Philistine oppression.” They did it. They got rid of the gods and goddesses, the images of Baal and Ashtoreth, and gave their exclusive attention and service to God’ (7:3–4, MSG).

The first thing we need to do in our lives when we are seeking God’s presence and help is remove anything that is drawing our attention and focus away from God.

After the return to the Lord there was a need for a period of confession and repentance, which was shown by their fasting. ‘On that day they fasted and there they confessed, “We have sinned against the Lord.” ’ (v.6).

Finally, it was Samuel’s intercession and persistence in prayer for twenty years that brought the people of God victory. Samuel said, ‘I will intercede with the Lord for you’ (v.5). They said, ‘Pray with all your might! And don’t let up! Pray to God, our God, that he’ll save us from the boot of the Philistines’ (v.8, MSG). Samuel ‘cried out to the Lord on Israel’s behalf, and the Lord answered him’ (v.9).

They recognised it was an amazing answer to prayer. ‘Thus far has the Lord helped us’ (v.12). They were delivered from the power of the Philistines and there was peace in the land (v.13).

Lord, I commit myself to you again to serve you only. Forgive my sins and the sins of your people. I cry out to you for deliverance. May we see many people in this land putting their faith in Jesus."

1. Thank You for making me understand that things happen in Your time.

2. Thank You for taste buds that we can try different food everytime.

3. Thank You always for the grace that the day's activities have gone as expected.

What is Your Motive?

"John 11:45-12:11

Perishing plots!

God is sovereign. He uses even the very worst things for good. Supremely, we see this on the cross: the very worst plot ever – torture and murder of the innocent Son of God – was used by God to bring salvation to the entire human race.

This being the case, you can believe that God will use even the worst things that you face in life, for good (Romans 8:28).

Jesus faced evil plots. The motive appears to be envy(the religious sin). People were envious of Jesus because he had so many followers and seemed to be more ‘successful’ than the religious leaders. Out of envy, the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin (John 11:47a).

The Sanhedrin was the supreme court of the nation. It comprised 71 members including the high priest. The chief priests were the majority and the Pharisees an influential minority. They asked, ‘What are we accomplishing?’ (v.47b). It was a very good question! They were envious of the popularity of Jesus and plotted to take his life (v.53).

God uses even their evil plots for good. They meant it for evil. God meant it for good.
Caiaphas was the high priest. He held that office from AD 18 – AD 36. Ironically, Caiaphas prophesied: ‘It is better for you that one person die for the people than that the whole nation perish’ (v.50). God is able to speak through an unwitting agent.

John comments, ‘He didn’t say this of his own accord, but as Chief Priest that year he unwittingly prophesied that Jesus was about to die sacrificially for the nation, and not only for the nation but so that all God’s exile-scattered children might be gathered together into one people’ (vv.51–52, MSG).

Perhaps because he knew of the plot against him, Jesus withdrew: ‘Therefore Jesus no longer moved about publicly … Instead he withdrew … he stayed with his disciples’ (v.54). But this was not to be the end of the opposition Jesus faced.

Most painful of all must have been the opposition from Judas. When Mary pours the perfume on Jesus’ feet, Judas objects, ‘Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages’ (12:5). This, on the face of it, is a perfectly good objection, but we read, ‘He did not say this because he cared about the poor’ (v.6).

This is the only place that something is said to Judas’ discredit apart from the record of his ultimate treachery. It must have been so distressing for Jesus that his friend and disciple, Judas, was stealing money from the gifts made to Jesus and his disciples by generous donors (Luke 8:2–3).

Jesus simply responds to Judas’ objection, ‘You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me’ (John 12:8).

Jesus was certainly not encouraging complacency about the poor. The fact that we will never obliterate poverty in the world does not mean that we should not try – after all, compassion for the poor was central to Jesus’ ministry. Rather, Jesus was turning the attention of his disciples to the significance of what Mary had done.

Whilst all this was going on, plans against Jesus were being formed (vv.9–11). Envy can lead to murder. Not only did they plot to take Jesus’ life (11:53), they also made plans to kill Lazarus as well, because he was leading many people to faith (12:10–11).

The extraordinary thing about this passage though is the way in which we see God’s hand at work through it all. Despite opposition and wrongdoing, God’s ultimate plan was still fulfilled. What Jesus’ opponents meant for evil, God used for good.

Lord, thank you that in everything you work for the good of those who love you and have been called according to your purpose."

1. Your grace is enough, thank You, Lord. Day by day, as trial comes, You stand by me. Thank You.

2. Thank You for being able to recharge.

3. Thank You for great food!

Be Light-hearted

"Proverbs 12:18-27

Promoting peace

The antidote to opposition and evil is to walk in the opposite spirit – to be those who ‘promote peace’. The book of Proverbs contrasts the ‘deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil’ (v.20a) with ‘joy for those who promote peace’ (v.20b). How can we do this?

Your words can bring healing

With your words you can be a promoter of peace. ‘Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise’ (v.18). Words are so powerful; they can hurt deeply but they can also heal.

Your words must be truthful

‘Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment’ (v.19). Truthful words are not only cathartic, they also have a lasting impact – they ‘endure forever’ (v.19).

Your words should be restrained

‘Fools blurt out folly’ (v.23b). But ‘a prudent person is reluctant to display his knowledge’ (v.23a, AMP). Knowledge is like underwear – it is useful to have it, but not necessary to show it off! The mere fact that we know the answer does not mean that we should give it. I am always so impressed by the restraint of leaders and helpers on Alpha.

Your words should be kind

‘Anxiety weighs down the heart’ (v.25a). God does not want you to be weighed down by worry and anxiety. As Joyce Meyer writes, ‘He wants you to be light-hearted and enjoy life.’ He also wants us to help others not to be weighed down by anxiety. ‘A kind word cheers’ up other people’s hearts (v.25b). By an encouraging word we can transform a person’s day or even their life.

Lord, help me to be a person who promotes peace and who speaks words of healing, truth, restraint and kindness."

1. Thank You that You have invented kind words. May I always use it.

2. Thank You for realization, thank You for Your grace during trying times.

3. Thank You that You keep testing my faith.

Your Servant Is Listening

"John 11:1-44

Hope in the Word of the Lord

Do you realise that God wants to speak to you? You can say, like Samuel, ‘Speak Lord, for your servant is listening’ (3:9).

These were times of trouble for the people of God. They cried out, ‘We’re in trouble!’ (4:7). It was a time when it seemed that God was almost silent. ‘In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions’ (3:1).

It must have been heartbreaking for Eli to see his own sons dishonouring the Lord. We read how they slept with the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting (2:22). Here we read again of them dishonouring God who has said, ‘Those who honour me I will honour, but those who despise me will be disdained’ (v.30).

As a result of the dishonouring of God, the people of God are defeated (4:1b–11). Eli dies heartbroken (vv.12–18). His daughter-in-law gives birth to a child with the name Ichabod: ‘The glory has departed’ (vv.19–22).

Yet, in the midst of these terrible times of trouble for the people of God there is hope. The Lord called Samuel (3:4). God revealed himself to Samuel and he listened to the Lord (vv.9–10). He said, ‘Speak, God. I’m your servant, ready to listen’ (v.9, MSG). The Lord said, ‘See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle’ (v.11).

Samuel was prepared to pass on the message in its entirety, however unpopular, embarrassing and difficult it was (v.18). He did not hide anything. As a result, God was able to use him greatly: ‘The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground’ (v.19).

Lord, help me to follow the example of Samuel and pray daily in my heart, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening’ (v.9). Help me to listen carefully to the word of God and then pass it on without altering it to please my audience."

1. Yes, Lord, help me to listen to You. Thank You for Your everyday Word, everyday bread.

2. Thank You for a productive day at work.

3. Praise You for everything that You are doing with my relatives! Hallelujah! Keep the Spirit moving! :)

Resurrection and Life

"John 11:1-44

Hope in the resurrection of Jesus

Do you fear death? Many people are afraid of death. But if you put your faith in Jesus, you do not need to fear death. Jesus has defeated the power of death.

Russell Brand (the English comedian, actor, columnist, singer, author and presenter) said, ‘Laughter is addictive because of the inevitability of death. It gives us a temporary escape – for the moment it stops the fear of the inevitability of death.’ Every human being will face the ‘trouble’ of death. Where does the hope lie? 

In today’s passage we see the full humanity of Jesus in the face of death. Lazarus was his friend. Jesus loved him (v.3). He was ‘deeply moved’ and ‘troubled’ by his death (v.33). In the shortest verse in the Bible we read ‘Jesus wept’ (v.35).

Yet Jesus is also, uniquely, the answer to death. Jesus said to Martha, ‘ “Your brother will be raised up.”

Martha replied, “I know that he will be raised up in the resurrection at the end of time.”
“You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all” ’ (vv.24–26, MSG).

There is life beyond the grave. Jesus died and rose again. Everyone who believes in Jesus will rise again from the dead. As a foretaste of the future, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. Bishop Lesslie Newbigin was once asked, ‘Are you an optimist or a pessimist?’ He said, ‘I’m neither – Jesus Christ is risen from the dead.’ You have a completely certain hope. We are neither optimists nor pessimists – rather, we are hopeful. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the basis of your future hope.

This resurrection power also belongs to the church. Paul writes to the church of Rome, ‘If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you’ (Romans 8:11).

Christianity is the largest movement of all time. It is the only one that never loses a member through death. I remember one of my sons, when he was a little boy, saying, ‘When you die, I’ll be sad. Then I’ll see you in heaven and I won’t be sad anymore!’

Mother Teresa was asked shortly before her death, ‘Are you afraid of dying?’ She said, ‘How can I be? Dying is going home to God. I have never been afraid. No, on the contrary,’ she said, ‘I am really looking forward to it!’ 

This passage also indirectly provides a picture of hope for the church. There is a sickness in parts of the church and many, as we have seen, are predicting its death. Some parts of the church seem to have ‘fallen asleep’ (John 11:11). And in some cases there seems to be a ‘bad odour’ (v.39).

This passage reminds us of Jesus’ power to bring even the dead to life. This resurrection power is still at work in the church today. The same Jesus who said over Lazarus ‘this sickness will not end in death’ (v.4), also promised that he would ‘build [his] Church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it’ (Matthew 16:18, KJV).

Some parts of the church seem to have been prematurely buried. Jesus said about Lazarus, ‘Take off the grave clothes and let him go’ (John 11:44c). Maybe Jesus would say something similar to parts of the church today. The Brighton and Hove Argus described what has happened at one of our church plants – St Peter’s, Brighton – as ‘the Lazarus-like recovery of the city’s “unofficial cathedral”.’

Lord, I pray for the church in this country. Forgive us where we have fallen asleep and are giving off a bad odour. Thank you that we know you are deeply moved by the situation, that you weep over the church, and that you will act out of love. May this sickness not end in death.

Lord, would you bring new life. I pray for an end to church closures and decline. May we see the church come alive all across our nation."

1. Amen! Thank You for this hope, thank You that You have indeed conquered death.

2. Thank You, Lord, for continuous learning. It was magnificent how you have crafted the minds.

3. Praise God for open doors, you never cease to amaze me of Your timing, of everything! Amen!

Cry, Rejoice, Stay Close, and Praise

"Psalm 64:1-10

Hope in the ultimate triumph of good over evil

Do you ever feel terrified by something you are facing in your life? David faced ‘the terror of the enemy’ (v.1b, AMP).

He went through times of real trouble, ‘the conspirators out to get me’ (v.2, MSG), ‘evil plans’ (v.5a) and ‘traps’ (v.5b, MSG). Yet, he is confident that God will triumph over evil. 

What should we do when we face similar troubles? The psalm today gives us some clues:

Cry out to God 

David prays, ‘Listen and help, O God’ (v.1a, MSG). David asks God: ‘protect my life from the threat of the enemy’ (v.1b).

‘Rejoice in the Lord’

‘Rejoice in the Lord’ (v.10a). As the apostle Paul puts it, ‘Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!’ (Philippians 4:4).

Stay close to the Lord

‘Take refuge in him’ (Psalm 64:10b). ‘Fly to God’ (v.10b, MSG).

Keep praising God

‘Let all the upright in heart praise him!’ (v.10c). ‘Make praise your habit’ (v.10c, MSG).

Lord, thank you that I can be confident of the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Thank you that you go with me into the battles. Thank you that I am never alone. Lord, I praise you."

1. Hallelujah for never forsaking me. Thank You, Lord.

2. Come Holy Spirit, in times that I need You to be there, You are there. You do amazing things in my life. Thank You for the energy for today's activities.

3. Thank You for provision and for protection.

Pour Out Your Heart

"John 10:22-42

Pour out your heart and soul to God

Is there something you want desperately from God?

It is almost inevitable that at times in our lives we will feel ‘distress of soul’ (1:10, AMP). Never allow bitterness to eat away in your heart – but, like Hannah, pour it out to the Lord. ‘Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried – inconsolably’ (v.10, MSG).

There is nothing more releasing than to pour out one’s soul before the Lord – to tell him what your problems are, rather than carrying them around yourself – and to ask him for the solution, and then to receive the peace of God (Philippians 4:6–7).

Relief from her anguish comes to Hannah long before she actually sees the answer to her prayer.

This is a beautiful picture of heartfelt prayer from the depth of the soul. ‘As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard’ (1 Samuel 1:12–13a). Eli accuses her of being drunk. She replies, ‘Not so, my lord … I am a woman who is deeply troubled … I was pouring out my soul to the Lord … I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief’ (vv.15–16).

Eli tells her, ‘Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him’ (v.17). And as she left her face was no longer downcast: ‘She ate heartily, her face radiant’ (v.18, MSG). She knew deep down that God had heard her prayer and, indeed, ‘the Lord remembered her’ (v.19). In fact, God more than answered her prayer. Not only did he give her the child she longed for; she gave birth to six children (2:21).

Meanwhile, ‘the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favour with the Lord and with people’ (2:26). This is the prayer we have prayed so often for our children.

Hannah’s prayer after Samuel’s birth is a vivid demonstration of the soul satisfaction that she experiences through her relationship with God. She prays and thanks God that ‘those who were hungry hunger no more’ (v.5).

The amazing thing in Hannah’s prayer is that the supreme source of her joy is not her child, but in the Lord. She says, ‘My heart rejoices in the Lord’ (v.1). He is the source of her soul satisfaction.

‘I’m walking on air ... God brings life ... he rekindles burned-out lives with fresh hope, restoring dignity and respect to their lives’ (vv.1,6,8, MSG).

Lord, thank you for amazing answers to prayer which you give when we pour out our souls to you. Thank you that sometimes you answer our prayers in these remarkable ways. But whether we receive what we specifically ask for or not, you promise us your peace."

1. Lord, thank you indeed for peace. I could not ask for more.

2. Thank You for a fun-filled day and meeting little angels.

3. Hallelujah for fellowship, praise You for old friends.

Believing, Knowing, and Following

"John 10:22-42

Communicate with God through Jesus

How do you and I communicate with God? 

Communication with Jesus is communication with God. Those who met Jesus understood he was claiming to be God (v.33). When he said, ‘I and the Father are one’ (v.30) and ‘the Father is in me, and I in the Father’ (v.38), there was no ambiguity in the ears of his hearers. His opponents understood it as blasphemy – ‘because you, a mere human being, claim to be God’ (v.33) – and they picked up stones to stone him (vv.31–33).

Jesus communicated with his disciples and he continues to communicate with us. He says, ‘My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me’ (v.27). We see here the marks of a true Christian:

Believing in Jesus

There is a contrast in this passage between those who ‘believed in Jesus’ (v.42) and those who ‘do not believe’ (vv.25–26). Belief in Jesus means believing in him when he says, ‘I am God’s Son’ (v.36) and putting our trust in him.

Knowing Jesus

Jesus says that ‘my sheep listen to my voice. I know them’ (v.27). To be a Christian is to recognise and follow the voice of Jesus. This is what defines a Christian – not so much knowledge about Jesus, but actually knowing him. This is then followed up by the wonderful declaration that Jesus also knows us.

Following Jesus

Jesus says, ‘They follow me’ (v.27). It affects our lives. As Jesus said elsewhere, ‘By their fruit you will recognise them’ (Matthew 7:16,20). James wrote, ‘Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead’ (James 2:17). The primary evidence of faith is love. Those who follow Jesus will follow his example of love.

Jesus promises every true Christian: ‘I give them eternal life’ (John 10:28). This is not just about quantity of life, it is also about quality. Jesus satisfies our spiritual hunger and thirst. In a relationship with Jesus we find this deep soul satisfaction that cannot be found anywhere else.

Jesus promises that this relationship with him will go on forever. It starts now, but it is ‘eternal’ (v.28). Those who follow Jesus will ‘never perish’ (v.28). This is a gift (‘I give them eternal life’ (v.28)). It cannot be earned, nor can it be lost. Jesus promises ‘no one can snatch them out of my hand … no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand’ (vv.28–29). There may be many struggles and temptations along the way, but ultimately the hand of Jesus and the hand of the Father are engaged together in protecting you. A Christian may lose their job, their money, their liberty and even their life, but they can never lose eternal life.

Thank you, Lord, that I can listen to your voice, that I can know you and that you give me eternal life. Thank you that you promise that I will never perish and that no one can snatch me out of your hand. Thank you that in this relationship I find soul satisfaction both now and forevermore."

1. Hallelujah to this eternal life that You give. Thank You, Lord.

2. Thank You that You can use me in service for others. I praise You.

3. Thank You, Lord, for being able to share time with a friend celebrating her birthday today. 

Spiritual Food

"Bernhard Langer was one of the best golfers of his generation. In the mid-eighties he was at the top of the game, twice winning the US Masters and topping the inaugural world golf rankings in 1986. He made a fortune and married an air stewardess from Florida. He said: ‘I had … won seven events in five different continents; I was number one in the world and I had a beautiful young wife. Yet there was something missing.

‘The lifestyle we all (especially us sportsmen) are leading – it is all about money and who you are and who you know and what you have and these things aren’t really the most important things. I think people who have these things, they realise that even when they have achieved all the goals they wanted to achieve and they have all the millions of pounds they wanted and all the sports cars and the homes and the places they want to go to – there is still something missing in their life and I believe that is Jesus Christ.’

The spiritual emptiness which Bernhard Langer is describing is common to all humanity. We are not simply body and mind. We are souls created for relationship with God. How then do we find this ‘soul satisfaction’?

Psalm 63:1-11

Seek God day and night

Spiritual ‘food’ is just as real as physical food and it satisfies us in a way that cannot be satisfied by anything physical.

David was in the desert. He knew what physical thirst and physical hunger were like. But he also knew and experienced spiritual thirst: ‘My soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water’ (v.1). And he knew what it was like for his spiritual hunger to be satisfied: ‘My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods’ (v.5a).

His spiritual hunger and thirst are satisfied as he worships God: ‘So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open, drinking in your strength and glory’ (v.2, MSG).

He lifts his hands as an expression of adoration, reverence and surrender: ‘Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands’ (vv.3–4). Lifting up hands is the oldest gesture of prayer. As Pope Benedict writes, ‘This gesture is the radical form of worship ... To open oneself to God, to surrender oneself completely to him.’

What do you do when you can’t sleep or you have wakeful moments in the night? David says that he worships and praises God, ‘I remember You upon my bed and meditate on You in the night watches’ (v.6, AMP).

As he pours out his heart in worship day and night to God, David discovers strength and support. He writes, ‘Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me’ (vv.7–8).

Lord, I seek you today. I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you. Lord, thank you so much for the way in which you satisfy my soul as with the richest of food. Thank you that you quench my spiritual thirst. Thank you that your love is better than life."

1. Hallelujah that your love is absolutely better than life. Thank You for loving me.

2. Thank You for being able to try local foods. 

3. Praise You for great, sensible conversations.

300 Men

"John 5:31-47

Study the examples of HD life

Gideon is listed in the New Testament as an example of someone who lived ‘by faith’ (Hebrews 11:32–33). He, therefore, received a foretaste of this ‘HD’ life.

Gideon knew the Lord, who spoke to him and told him he was going to give him victory over the Midianites (Judges 7:9). Gideon ‘worshipped God’ (v.15) even before he had won the battle. This demonstrated his faith and inspired the others.

As Joyce Meyer writes, ‘Learning to worship God before the battle gets His attention, demonstrates our faith, and inspires us to boldly enter any challenge we face.’

Such was Gideon’s faith that he went into battle with only 300 men – each with a torch in one hand and a trumpet in the other (‘leaving no chance to use swords’, v.20, AMP). Faith and confidence was not in themselves but in God, who gave them a great victory.

Again, I love what Joyce Meyer writes about this, ‘We can learn from them to put all of our confidence and trust in God instead of in our ability to help ourselves. What God has asked you to do may be impossible for you, but it is not impossible for Him.’
Learn from studying the example of Gideon.

Wisdom in dealing with criticism

When ‘the Ephraimites asked Gideon … “Why didn’t you call us when you went to fight Midian?” they criticised him sharply’ (8:1), Gideon dealt with this criticism with great charm and tact. He said to them, ‘What have I accomplished compared to you? … What was I able to do compared to you?’ (vv.2–3a). And we are told, ‘At this, their resentment against him subsided’ (v.3b).

On the whole, people want to be valued for what they do. They want to be included in God’s plans. Criticism may flow from a person who is feeling underused or undervalued. Once the Ephraimites realised that Gideon valued them and rated them highly, their criticism subsided.

Sometimes, I forget the wisdom of this example. I respond to criticism in the wrong way. But I have been struck by how often, if we go to people and say, ‘I need your help’ (in effect, ‘what have I accomplished compared to you?’), we see the same response as Gideon saw: their criticism subsides.

Determination when exhausted 

‘Gideon and his 300 men, exhausted yet keeping up the pursuit …’ (v.4). There are times in life when we feel exhausted. Most often it is wise to stop, rest and get refreshed. But there are some occasions when you just have to keep going. Presumably, Gideon’s strength came from the fact that the Spirit of the Lord had come upon him (6:34).

The life of Gideon is an inspiration. But there is also a warning. After his great victory, he failed to consult God. He thought of a nice idea and went ahead. It turned out to be a disaster. He made a golden ephod that became ‘a snare to Gideon and his family’ (8:27).

Although Gideon, like us all, was a fallible human being, he is listed in Hebrews as one of the great people of faith. Yet, you are better off than Gideon: ‘God had planned something better for us …’ (Hebrews 11:40). You can enjoy an even better life than Gideon. You can enjoy high definition living by faith in Jesus.

Lord, thank you that I can enjoy ‘high definition living’, life in all its fullness, eternal life through faith in Jesus. Please give me wisdom and energy through the power of your Holy Spirit within me."

1. Thank You for always giving that victory and by using fallible human beings as samples that I, too, can trust in You.

2. Thank You for a taste of a fantastic instructor.

3. Thank You for washing machines and good waiting time.

Act Of Will

"John 5:31-47

Come to Jesus – the source of HD life

If we fail to see that the Bible is about Jesus and a relationship with him, reading it can easily become a dry, academic and arid activity. Once you understand that it is all about Jesus, and you see that studying the Bible is a way to grow in your relationship with him, it becomes the source of life, eternal life and ‘high definition living’.

The way to find life is to come to Jesus. On numerous occasions, especially in John’s gospel, Jesus refers to this life as ‘eternal life’ (for example, v.39). Eternal life comes from this relationship. It starts now and goes on forever. It is the high definition life.
How do we know that Jesus really is who he says he is? As if in a court of law, Jesus calls four witnesses to support his case.

Evidence of other people

The first witness Jesus calls is other people – in particular, John the Baptist. John came as ‘a witness to testify’ (1:7). Today, there are more people than ever before (over 2 billion) pointing to Jesus.

Evidence of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection

The second witness Jesus calls is his own life work. This is a ‘weightier’ witness than the first one – it is the ‘very work the Father has given me to finish’ (5:35), which culminates in the resurrection of the crucified Christ who cries out on the cross, ‘It is finished’ (19:30).

Evidence of the Father

The third witness Jesus calls is the Father’s direct testimony (5:37). We too can experience his direct testimony today through his Spirit in our hearts (15:26)

Evidence of the Scriptures

The fourth witness Jesus calls is the Scriptures. The whole Bible is about Jesus and about coming into a relationship with him. Jesus says, ‘These are the Scriptures that testify about me’ (5:39). He says, ‘Moses … wrote about me’ (v.46).

It is possible to ‘study the Scriptures’ but miss the whole point. Jesus says to religious leaders, ‘You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life’ (vv.39–40).

Even though there is ample evidence about Jesus, ultimately coming to him is an act of the will. And some, Jesus says, ‘refuse to come to me to have life’ (v.40). Why would anyone refuse?

First, some are not willing to put God first in their lives (v.42). Others are more concerned about what people think than about what God thinks (v.44). Still others simply refuse to believe in spite of the evidence (v.47). ‘If you believed, really believed, what Moses said, you would believe me. He wrote of me’ (v.46, MSG).

Do not worry about what other people think. What God thinks is what matters. Come to Jesus again today and enjoy high definition living.

Lord Jesus, today I come to you – the source of life. As I study the Scriptures, may my heart burn within me as I encounter you."

1. Thank You for life, thank You for the Bible, thank You for the evidences.

2. Thank You for being busy, good busyness. 

3. Praise God for a very interesting dinner with the people You put in my life.

'Bios' and 'Zoe'

"It was back in 1966 when England last won the World Cup. Yet I can still remember the moment. As children, we were watching the match on a black and white television set. We could never get a very good picture; it was always fuzzy and going into lines. We were quite happy with it since we did not know anything different. One day, we discovered all it needed was an aerial! Suddenly we found that we could get clear and distinct pictures. Our enjoyment was transformed.

Now, not only do we have colour television, we can get high definition (HD). There are no fuzzy lines, or distortions, and it produces a richer, bolder and more vibrant picture than ever before.

Ed Young’s book, High Definition Living, uses this analogy to describe the contrast between mere existence and the kind of life that Jesus speaks about.

There are two Greek words for life. The word ‘bios’, from which we get the word biological, means ‘earthly life’. It is the condition of being alive rather than dead. And ‘zoe’, which is used in the New Testament passage for today, means ‘the fullness or richness of life’ – the ‘supernatural life belonging to God and Christ’ which you will receive in the future, but which you can also enjoy here and now. 

Proverbs 11:19-28

Follow the path of HD life

The book of Proverbs sets out two paths: one leads to ‘death’ (v.19b); the other leads to ‘life’ (v.19a). The path that leads to death is the path of evil (v.19b), perversity (v.20a), wickedness (v.21a), meanness (v.24b), hoarding (v.26a) and trusting in wealth (v.28a).

The path that leads to life is for those who are righteous (v.19) and blameless (v.20). As we read this through the lens of the New Testament, we thank God for the righteousness he gives us by faith in Jesus Christ.

In this passage we see a description of what this life is like. It is not mere existence. It is high definition living. It means enjoying God’s delight (v.20b). It is a life of freedom (v.21b). It ‘ends only in good’ (v.23).

When you are generous, you are ‘enriched’. When you ‘refresh’ others, you are ‘refreshed’ (v.25).

This does not mean that life is without its difficulties, challenges and suffering. But ultimately, you will be crowned with blessing (v.26b). You will find goodwill(v.27a) and will ‘thrive like a green leaf’ (v.28b).

Lord, thank you that you give me the righteousness of Christ by faith and put me on a path that leads to life. Thank you that you delight in me and that in the midst of all the troubles of life you promise me freedom, refreshment and blessing."

1. Yes, Lord, that promise of freedom, refreshment, and blessing, thank You.

2. You continue to grace the workplace with people, Lord. Thank You.

3. Thank You for a life that brings excitement and color.

Beauty From Within

"A cynical ancient writer said, "The things for which a woman longs are adornments." Other ancient proverbs claim that "a woman's thought is only for her beauty" and the "woman of sixty, the same as the girl of six, runs to the sound of the timbrel." It is true women are concerned about appearance, and this is one of the reasons men appreciate them.

Peter warns women about excessive attention to appearance: Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel--rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God (1 Peter 3:3-4).

A popular television commercial depicted a husband saying to his wife, "You're not getting older, you're getting better." This is true also of the wise woman who gives more attention to developing a beautiful spirit than a beautiful body. It is interesting that many men who stray from the marriage bed are attracted to women not nearly as physically beautiful as their wives. This demonstrates that the spiritual element is of prime importance in marriage. Thus the wise woman, while not neglecting her outward appearance, will pay more attention to making her inner person beautiful. Then, when the wrinkles appear and the body weakens, her love and security will grow stronger.

You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God."

1. Thank You, Lord, for giving me people with inner beauty. Thank You that You help me look into the hearts of people.

2. Hallelujah for the first sign language class!

3. Praise God for allowing me to bring a friend in church!

Weakness Into Strength

"John 6:25-59

Faith and fallibility

As we read through the ongoing saga of the people of God sinning, crying out to the Lord and being rescued by Judges, we come across one of the most disturbing stories in the entire Bible.

Jephthah is described as a ‘mighty warrior’ (11:1). His mother was a prostitute (v.1). His half-brothers drove him away (v.2). He gathered a group of adventurers around him (v.3). He became a remarkable leader. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him (v.29), and he was used by God to secure victory over the Ammonites – ‘the Lord gave them into his hands’ (v.32).

However, there is an incident in his life that is almost unbearable to read. He made a vow to God that if God gave him victory he would sacrifice whatever came out of the door of his house to meet him upon his return. It was his daughter, his only child. And, it appears, that is what he did (vv.29–40).

It is important to note that God never asked him to make this vow. Nor did he ask him to carry out the sacrifice. Indeed, it went against all the teaching of the Old Testament, which forbade child sacrifice. Jephthah never actually seeks God’s will in this situation. It seems to be his own pride that drives him to put his reputation above the life of his daughter. This shows the fallibility of even great people of faith.

In spite of his weakness, he is listed in the book of Hebrews as one of the heroes of faith whose weakness was turned into strength (Hebrews 11:32–34).

Lord, thank you that you use fallible human beings. Forgive me for the times when I make bad choices. I need your wisdom for everything I do. Thank you for the way you use people of faith and turn their weakness into strength. Help me today to live a life of faith, trusting and believing in Jesus, who is ‘the bread of life’ (John 6:35)."

1. Thank You, indeed, for using imperfect people to make me realize that I can be of use. Please turn my weakness into strength.

2. Hallelujah for a smooth transition! Thank You for extra hands.

3. Thank You for giving me this blessing of a better home.

Bread of Life

"John 6:25-59

Faith and emptiness

Jesus taught about the centrality of faith. When asked ‘“What must we do to do the works God requires?” Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent” ’ (vv.28–29).

When they asked for bread from heaven, Jesus says, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty’ (v.35). As Joyce Meyer points out, we are called, primarily, ‘believers’, not ‘achievers’. The way we achieve is by first believing.

When we are physically hungry we crave food. But as well as physical needs we have spiritual needs and a spiritual hunger. Faith in Jesus fills the emptiness we experience and satisfies our spiritual hunger for purpose, permanence and pardon.

Purpose

Physical bread is not enough. Material things alone do not satisfy. Money, homes, cars, success and even human relationships do not satisfy our desire for ultimate purpose in life.  

The bread that does satisfy is the ‘bread of life’. This is not a commodity that Jesus supplies. He is the gift and the giver. The words, ‘I’ or ‘me’ appear thirty-five times in this discussion. ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty’ (v.35).

It is easy, even once we have put our faith in Jesus, to get caught up either in material things or the trappings of religion. This passage reminds us that it is actually only a relationship with Jesus that satisfies our spiritual hunger.

The expressions, ‘Believe in me’ (v.29), ‘Come to me’ (v.35), ‘Look to the Son’ (v.40), ‘Eat my flesh and drink my blood’ (v.53 onwards) describe living in an intimately close relationship with Jesus.

Permanence

We are all going to die. Death is the great unmentionable reality. Jesus says this life is not the end: ‘I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever ... I will raise them up on the last day’ (vv.51,54).

Jesus promises to raise you up at the last day and that you will live forever. You can have absolute assurance that your relationship with Jesus will outlast death.

There is both a present and a future dimension to this eternal life. They said, ‘From now on give us this bread’ (v.34). Jesus says it can be received immediately (v.35 onwards). Yet he also made clear that it will last forever (vv.50–51).

Pardon

Forgiveness is actually our greatest need. The atheist philosopher, Marghanita Laski, said, ‘What I envy most about you Christians is your forgiveness. I have no one to forgive me.’ We all want to know that we are pardoned for all that we have done wrong.

Jesus said, ‘This bread is my flesh, which I give for the life of the world’ (v.51). His blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins. Every time we receive communion, among other things, we are reminded that Jesus gave his life so that we could be forgiven.

How do we receive this bread? Jesus says, ‘I tell you the truth, whoever believes has everlasting life. I am the bread of life’ (vv.47–48).

In John’s Gospel, there is no separate account of the institution of the Eucharist (as there is in the other Gospels). Rather, we see Jesus’ teaching on the Eucharist set in the context of faith. The Eucharist is a visible sign that helps us receive Christ by faith (vv.53–58). For example, it is striking to compare verses 40 and 54.

Lord, thank you that through faith in you I have found a lasting purpose in my life, forgiveness for my sins and the promise of eternal life. Help me today to walk in a close, intimate relationship with you."

1. Hallelujah for giving that purpose in my life. Thank You for calling.

2. Thank You for a wonderful dinner with new-found friends.

3. No matter how long the time spent together, thank You for those moments.

Arise To Help Me

"Psalm 59:1-8

Faith and opposition

God is our strength in times of difficulty. Belief in God is not the recipe for an easy life. In fact, the reverse is the case. Those who put their faith in God are likely to face all kinds of opposition.

David’s life was under threat. Saul had sent men to watch David’s house in order to kill him. He finds himself surrounded by ‘enemies ... mutineers ... dirty tricks ... hit men ... desperadoes ... ambush ... they’re after me, determined to get me’ (vv.1–4, MSG).

Yet in the midst of this, David prays, ‘Rescue me ...’ (vv.1,2, MSG) and has total confidence that the Lord can and will deliver him (v.8). Later in the psalm, twice David calls on God: ‘O my Strength’ (vv.9,17).

The reason that David was under attack was not because of his own sin. He is able to say, ‘I did nothing to deserve this, God, crossed no one, wronged no one’ (v.4, MSG). Of course, we know from the account of David’s life that there were times when he did wrong, (see, for example, 2 Samuel 11). However, on this occasion, the opposition did not arise from his own sin.

This psalm is a reminder to us that we can cry out to God for help in times of personal difficulties. David prays a personal prayer, ‘Arise to help me; look on my plight’ (Psalm 59:4b). We can also cry out to God for help at times of international crisis. The very next sentence is a prayer for the nation (v.5a). At whatever level the opposition appears, we can ask the Lord for his deliverance, help and intervention.

O my Strength, help us to trust you in times of difficulty and opposition, both personally and as a nation. Deliver us from those who oppose your plans."

1. Thank You that You have always made clear that there is opposition. May I be ready to face it always.

2. Thank You that everything will work out for good. I pray for a final home, O, God.

3. Thank You for easy packing. :)

Perfect In Weakness

"John Stott was one of the great Christian leaders of the twentieth century. On one occasion he was speaking at a university mission in Sydney, Australia. On the last night of the mission he was thinking of pulling out of speaking since, as a result of an infection, he had virtually lost his voice.

Eventually, he was persuaded to speak. Waiting in the side room beforehand, he whispered a request that the words of the ‘thorn in the flesh’ verses from 2 Corinthians 12 be read to him. The conversation between Jesus and Paul came alive.

John (Paul): ‘I beg you to take it away from me.’

Jesus: ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’

John (Paul): ‘I will all the more gladly boast of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me … for when I am weak, then I am strong.’

John Stott records what happened: ‘When the time came for the address, all I can say is that I croaked the gospel through the microphone in a monotone. I was utterly unable to modulate my voice or exert my personality in any way. But all the while I was crying to the Lord to fulfill his promise to perfect his power through my weakness.’

He went back to Australia seven or eight times after that, and on every occasion somebody came up to him and said, ‘Do you remember that final service in the University Great Hall, when you had lost your voice? I came to Christ that night.’

As someone who is very aware of my own weaknesses, I find it encouraging that when we feel weak we are not alone."

1. Praise God for the strength and energy back!

2. Thank You for the patience I needed in moving houses and arranging with owners.

3. Thank You that because of new life, You have given control of emotions.

Ownership Or Possession?

"John 1:29-51

The gift of your inheritance

Is there some area of your life where you are still not enjoying your inheritance in Christ? 
The land was the inheritance of the people of God (17:4,7; 18:7,20,27). ‘Joshua addressed the People of Israel: “How long are you going to sit around on your hands, putting off taking possession of the land that God, the God of your ancestors, has given you?” ’ (18:3, MSG).

Here, once again, we see the great difference between ownership and possession and enjoyment of the land. Israel was given the ownership of the land before they took possession and enjoyment.

In the Christian life, the moment you come to Christ you receive forgiveness, justification, the righteousness of God and the Holy Spirit. You are given the right to become children of God. You have power over sin and access to God. You have victory over demonic powers. You have peace with God. You have authority over evil in your life and the lives of others. All the promises of God belong to you. This is your inheritance in Christ.

But you may not always, necessarily, take possession and fully enjoy the blessing of all these things in your life. Here God says, in effect, to his people: ‘Don’t you realise I have given all of this to you? What are you waiting for?’

You may have given your life to Jesus, but have you allowed him to possess every aspect of how you live – your finances, work, prayer life, friends and family. In my experience this is a lifetime task.

St Paul writes that you need to take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). In some areas the victory may be immediate. In others it may be more gradual. You have to drive out even the little pockets of resistance.

As Israel received the land as a gift from the Lord (Joshua 18:3), so you and I have received, in Jesus, every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3). The question for us is, ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession’ of these gifts? (Joshua 18:3).

Lord, thank you that you have blessed me in Christ with every spiritual blessing. Thank you that you have given me the gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. Thank you that you have removed my sins and given me the Holy Spirit. Thank you that I have everything that I need to take possession of the land."

1. Thank You that I have everything, yes, thank You.

2. Thank You for your healing, I have claimed it. 

3. Thank You for the strength in spite my stomach pain.

Always On Time

"John 6:60-7:13

Extraordinary power

Do you ever get frustrated by the length of time God seems to take to answer your prayers? God is never in a hurry, but he is always on time.

We see in this passage God’s elaborate preparation for the birth of Samson, whose extraordinary power was to save the people of his day. But this only prefigured something that would take even longer. Hundreds of years later, John the Baptist arose (who, as we will see, was in many ways like Samson) to prepare for the ultimate Saviour of the world.

We see in the Bible that God often blessed the children of those who had waited a long time to have children and had thought it was an impossibility, for example Sarah with Isaac and Elizabeth with John the Baptist.

Samson was like John the Baptist in many ways: 

In both cases, it was thought that the mother could not have children and something of a miracle was required (Judges 13:3; Luke 1:7). In both cases, the angel of the Lord spoke clearly to the parents (Judges 13:7; Luke 1:13) Both children were set apart for God from birth (Judges 13:7; Luke 1:14–17) Neither of them was allowed to touch any alcohol (Judges 13:7; Luke 1:15) The Spirit of the Lord came upon both of them from a very early moment in their lives (Judges 13:25; Luke 1:15).

Arguably, we also see a hint of the whole Trinity in this passage. We read of ‘the Lord’ (Judges 13:1), but we also hear about the awesome ‘angel of the Lord’ who appeared to Samson’s parents (vv.3,6) and who then ascended towards heaven in a flame (v.19).

Seeing this, Manoah and his wife fell with their faces to the ground … Manoah realised that it was the angel of the Lord. ‘ “We are doomed to die!” he said to his wife. “We have seen God!” ’ (vv.19–22). (Thankfully he had a ‘sensible wife’! (v.23, AMP).)

Could this be the second person of the Trinity? Jesus, in our New Testament passage for today, uses the language of the Son of Man ascending (John 6:62). Earlier in John’s Gospel we read of ‘the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man’ (John 1:51).

The third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, is clearly at work here at the birth of Samson: ‘The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He grew and the Lord blessed him, and the Spirit of the Lord began to stir him …’ (Judges 13:24–25). The Holy Spirit gave Samson extraordinary and unusual strength and power.

Lord, thank you for the extraordinary strength you gave to Samson. Please fill me with your Spirit today. Give me spiritual strength and power to resist the enemy and power to live a holy life."

1. Come, Holy Spirit. Thank You for hope, for making the impossible possible.

2. Thank You that in times of weakness, it lets us remember You and seek You.

3. Thank You for giving the rest I need.