Video Devotionals

Read Romans 3:21-31

For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too, since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith. Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law. - Romans 3:28-31 (NIV)

Even though I’m freely justified by God, now God will teach me and enable me through the Holy Spirit to actually follow Him. The Law is still true, and shows us what’s right and wrong. Now it’s time to get into the transformation journey with God, and learn how to walk by faith in Him and experience what He calls the abundant life.

Read Romans 3:9-20

As it is written:

“There is no one righteous, not even one;

there is no one who understands;

there is no one who seeks God.” - Romans 3:10-11 (NIV)

The biggest deception of all is that there’s no evil one, and there’s no evil in me. In actuality, there’s a trail of death following our lives when we’re living in the flesh. Only when we listen to God’s word and agree with his evaluation of our words, actions, and motives can we repent and allow His Spirit to make us new again. And we need to do that every day.

Read Romans 3:1-8

What if some were unfaithful? Will their unfaithfulness nullify God’s faithfulness? Not at all! Let God be true, and every human being a liar. As it is written:

“So that you may be proved right when you speak
and prevail when you judge.” - Romans 3:3-4 (NIV)

God has been directing human behavior since the beginning, and we have been turning to the left or the right for just as long. Yet our faithlessness is not reciprocated. God continues to remain faithful to His promise to send a Redeemer who would crush the serpent’s head and free us from our sin. May we always remember to praise Him for his faithfulness.

Read Romans 2:1-11

Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? - Romans 2:2-4 (NIV)

Judging others implies we do not recognize our own sin. We have all sinned. We are made righteous by God’s grace alone. This is no excuse for judging others. Only a holy sinless God is qualified to judge.

God does not immediately judge us because he is patient in waiting for us to repent. But there will be an eventual accounting. We will all stand one day before a holy God and give an account of how we have stewarded the life he gave us.

Today, let the truth that we are lost without God and his forgiveness drive us to repentance.

Read Romans 1:26-32

Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. - Romans 1:28-29a (NIV)

Since the Fall, Satan has continued to draw people toward independence from God—that is, disobedience. Eventually God gave us over to our depraved minds, and bad things happened—and we did it to ourselves. But when we realize, by God’s grace, what the cause of our problems really is, He is there to welcome us back to fellowship with Him. Praise God!

Read Romans 1:21-25

They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen. - Romans 1:25 (NIV)

Since the Garden of Eden, humans have continued to be deceived, choosing to believe the lies of the evil one over the truth of God. We act as though what we can see is all that exists, and imagine God’s creation, or some part of it, is God. We imagine God is like us—petty, selfish, lustful, proud, and greedy.

But God is not like us, and continually calls us back to himself. Listen to his call, give up the lies, and return to God’s truth.

Read Romans 1:18-20

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. - Romans 1:20 (NIV)

God has ordered the universe and humanity to reveal Himself to us. We are hard-wired to want the abundant life, but the evil one deceives us as to what that it. And when we allow ourselves to be thus deceived, our lives, human society and indeed the very earth we live on gets out of whack. We reap what we sow.

How can we avoid this? God has not left you without recourse. Through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is hope. Allow God to conform your life to His will, to the way He designed you to live.

Read Romans 1:8-17

For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” - Romans 1:17 (NIV)

Where are you in your faith, in your belief, in your trusting of what God has done for you and wants to do in and through you today? Ask God to fill you afresh each day so you might trust Him especially when you’re being persecuted, when troubles or hard times come.

Read Romans 1:1-7

Through [Jesus Christ our Lord] and for His Name’s sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. - Romans 1:5-6 (NIV)

We have all been called to obedience to God. Where are you in your walk with God today? How faithfully are you following Him in your day-to-day life? Ask God today for the strength to continue to obey His Will.

Read 1 John 5:11-21

And we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us understanding so that we can know the true God. And now we live in fellowship with the true God because we live in fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only true God, and he is eternal life.
Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts. - 1 John 5:20-21 (NLT)

As we live in fellowship with Christ, as we abide in Him, our lives are reoriented. More and more we think like Christ, we desire what He desires—our own obedience and holiness, as well as the salvation of any and all those who are part of our lives. And so we ask for these things, and God will grant them because they are in accordance with His will as well. May we always keep God in the center of our lives.

Read 1 John 5:1-10

And Jesus Christ was revealed as God’s Son by his baptism in water and by shedding his blood on the cross—not by water only, but by water and blood. And the Spirit, who is truth, confirms it with his testimony. - 1 John 5:6 (NLT)

The apostle John encourages us to believe that Jesus is truly God as well as truly human. At his baptism, the Father declared that Jesus was his Son, and after his crucifixion God again declared him God (thus still perfect and holy) by raising him from the dead. But beyond mere factual belief, we are encouraged to trust in Jesus’ saving sacrifice, to believe and confess that we needed His intervention because that is the only way we could have eternal life. Praise God that Jesus was faithful; may we continue to faithfully trust in Him.

Read 1 John 4:16-21

And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. - 1 John 4:17 (NLT)

As we stay connected to Christ, His love flows both into us and through us. Flowing into us, it counters the accusations of the enemy and assures us of God’s forgiveness and acceptance— our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. Flowing through us, it grows and becomes more perfect, enabling us to love others into God’s family as well. Let God’s love grow in you today.

Read 1 John 4:7-16a

All who declare that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. - 1 John 4:15-16a (NLT)

Have you put your trust in God’s love … today? Every day is a new day. Every day the evil one comes after us, but God’s mercies are new every morning, enabling us to live in the truth of the Gospel—that because He loved us, Jesus came for us, and that He sacrificed Himself for us, because that’s the only way back to the Father. Trust in that love today.

Read 1 John 4:1-6

But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. - 1 John 4:4 (NLT)

The evil one is defeated, but still active in our present world. We should be aware of this, and guard our hearts and minds against false doctrine, but we need not fear, for the victory is already won. By continuing to search the Scriptures, and by daily remaining in fellowship with God, we can discern God’s truth and know what is of God and what is not.

Read 1 John 3:11-22

Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and he knows everything. Dear friends, if we don’t feel guilty, we can come to God with bold confidence. - 1 John 3:21-22 (NLT)

Let God’s love flow through you. “Give up our lives for our brothers and sisters” is a high calling, but it is possible in and through the Holy Spirit. If you’re only concerned with yourself, expand your vision of whom God would have you serve.

If you’re feeling guilty about your past failures in this respect, good news—God has taken care of your failures. You no longer have to feel guilty, and if you’re not feeling guilty—good news, you can now come to God with bold confidence, and ask Him to serve other believers through you in greater and greater ways.

Read 1 John 3:7-10

Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God. - 1 John 3:9 (NLT)

Children reflect their parents, especially children of God. The world is watching us—they can tell those who are really reflecting the acts and attitudes of their heavenly Father, and those who are faking it. May we always maintain our family connections, with God Himself and with our fellow Christians.

Read 1 John 3:23-25

And this is his commandment: We must believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as he commanded us. - 1 John 3:23 (NLT)

God’s commandment for us is both simple and hard. It is simple because there aren’t hundreds of rules to follow. It is hard because it means we give up our will and submit to God’s will. It is difficult to believe in Jesus rather than thinking “there’s got to be a catch; I must have to do something.” It is difficult to love one another in our own strength, rather than letting God’s Spirit guide and control our thoughts, words and actions as we relate to our Christian brothers and sisters. May God empower us today to believe and love using God’s strength, not our own.

Read 1 John 3:1-6

Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him or understand who he is. - 1 John 3:6 (NLT)

Following God is a lifelong journey. If you really desire to experience God’s righteousness, it should show up more and more in the way you live. Where are you on the journey of surrendering to God? Are you daily asking God to reveal your sin so you can deal with it (in the power of the Holy Spirit)? If not, today’s a great day to start.

Read 1 John 2:24-29

So you must remain faithful to what you have been taught from the beginning. If you do, you will remain in fellowship with the Son and with the Father. - 1 John 2:24 (NLT)

The opportunity and challenge for each one of us is to remain in fellowship with God and with God’s people. What is interfering with your fellowship with God? Know that whatever it is, the solution is to re-surrender, to re-submit to God and His Truth. Call upon His forgiveness and His strength every single day.

Read 1 John 2:18-23

Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Antichrist is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know that the last hour has come. - 1 John 2:18 (NLT)

We’ve been in the end times for almost 2000 years, because the characteristics of the end times continue to play out in our world. People continue to either stand up under persecution or show themselves faithless when Christianity is no longer popular in their society. Strive to remain faithful by staying connected to Christ and to other faithful Christians.

Read 1 John 2:15-17

For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. - 1 John 2:16 (NIV)

Although we remain in the world, we are called to not love it. As the Father’s love fills us, we are able to resist the desire to love this world more than the next, the desire to dwell in lust, covetousness, greed and pride, to look to ourselves rather than God. Nurturing our relationship with Christ is the key to doing this.

Read 1 John 2:12-14

I am writing to you who are God’s children because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus. - 1 John 2:12 (NLT)

One of the things that helps us through the Christian life is remembering who we are in Christ. We are God’s forgiven children. We are getting to know Christ more and more each day. Even though the battle continues, Jesus has already won the battle for us, and our victory is sure. Be encouraged today by these reminders of God’s faithfulness to us.

Read 1 John 2:7-11

But anyone who hates a fellow believer is still living and walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go, having been blinded by the darkness. - 1 John 2:11 (NLT)

Our battle is not against flesh and blood. When we recognize that our true enemies are the forces of darkness, it frees us to love our fellow believers even when we don’t see eye to eye. It even allows us to love our enemies into God’s kingdom.

Read 1 John 2:1-6

But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. - 1 John 2:5 (NLT)

The only way to live in the truth is to come to the truth, to submit to, surrender to, open yourself up to God’s truth. Both the desire and the power to do this come from God. Then we truly live in Him.

Read 1 John 1:5-10

But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. - 1 John 1:7 (NLT)

Sin lives in darkness; when we are in darkness, we can sometimes even convince ourselves that God doesn’t know what we’re doing (as if anything could be hidden from God). John implores us to deliberately live our lives in the light of God, so that our sin can be revealed to us as sin, and can be confessed, and can be forgiven by God for the sake of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Read 1 John 1:1-4

This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. - 1 John 1:2a (NLT)

Jesus is our one and only Savior. Jesus is life itself; in Him we live and move and have our being. Because of His sinless life and unjust suffering and death, we can have eternal life in Him as well. As we study the first epistle of John over the following weeks, allow the Holy Spirit to increase your fellowship with the Father and the Son, and with His followers.

Read John 21:20-23

Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me.” - John 21:22 (NLT)

When envy attacks us, Jesus calls us back to Himself, reminding us that our job is to follow His leading for us, and not to be concerned about how He is leading someone else. Being content in our own relationship with God is a great blessing.

Read John 21:18-21

Peter asked Jesus, “What about him, Lord?” - John 21:21 (NLT)

We are called to focus our thoughts on God and His mission for us. The temptation is to compare our recognition and honor to the recognition and honor given to others, to compare our sacrifice to the sacrifice of others. This is especially true when recognition and honor do not come to us, or when great sacrifice is required of us. Even the Apostle Peter was not immune to this. So continue to focus on God alone, so as to avoid comparing yourself with other Christians.

Read John 21:10-14

Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. - John 21:13 (NLT)

Jesus continues to provide for the disciples, continues to equip them for their mission. And the disciples knew it was Jesus. Do you recognize God in your midst? Do you recognize His provision and appreciate it? As you find yourself in these situations, use them as an opportunity to recalibrate your life around deep faith.

Read John 21:1-9

Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. - John 21:7 (NLT)

In the midst of your everyday life, God calls to you. Peter wants to be with his Lord; when He shows up, Peter drops everything and goes. How ready are we to immediately respond to God’s revelation and direction?

Read John 20:30-31

But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name. - John 20:31 (NLT)

God has done many mighty works; some of them are recorded in the Bible, and some of them have occurred in your life. All of them are effective to lead you to faith and then strengthen that faith. The end of the year is an appropriate time to look back and reflect on when and how God has guided and sustained you.

Read John 20:24-29

Then [Jesus] said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!” - John 20:27 (NLT)

There’s something about an encounter with Jesus that changes everything. If you’re feeling like you need one of those encounters, put yourself in the environment where God will show up. Put yourself on your knees. Put yourself in His Word. Put yourself around other believers in prayer. And then watch and see how God shows up.

Read John 20:19-24

That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! “Peace be with you,” he said. - John 20:19 (NLT)

What is it that has you locked up? What are you afraid of? What has you anxious or worried? Shalom, God’s peace be with you. God wants you to know “I’ve got you. I have strategies and plans if you’ll just come to Me. Pray, and seek divine solutions to the problems of our world. I’m sending you into your community to bring good news.”

Read John 20:11-18

“Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked [Mary]. “Who are you looking for?”

Jesus’ question to Mary could be directed to us also. “Who are you looking for?” When we are looking for God, we, like Mary, must be willing to wait in submission to God’s will until God shows up. He may show up in Scripture as we read, He may show up in answered prayer, He may show up through people God brings into our lives, but if we keep looking and waiting, He will show up.

Read John 20:11-14

Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. - John 20:11 (NLT)

God knows where each of us is on our path to belief and surrender. He is willing to give us the additional time and experience we need to come to faith. If you are facing a spiritual struggle, don’t give up. Stay longer, contemplating what God has done in your past and persistently looking for Him to show up.

Read John 20:1-10

[F]or until then they still hadn’t understood the Scriptures that said Jesus must rise from the dead. - John 20:9 (NLT)

How does the resurrection of God strike you? Do you move toward it, do you run right in, do you stand at a distance, or do you hesitate while seeing how others react? We all approach God at different speeds. Embrace who God made you to be, and trust that God is in that, and that God also works through community to encourage us all to understand what is real—His resurrection and the new life it foretells.

Read John 19:38-42

When Pilate gave permission, Joseph [of Arimathea] came and took the body away. With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. Following Jewish burial custom, they wrapped Jesus’ body with the spices in long sheets of linen cloth. - John 19:38b-40 (NLT)

Here Joseph and Nicodemus show great respect, even awe, for Jesus, both risking identification with Him and spending a significant sum to complete Jesus’ burial. Are you still in awe of Jesus? What does it mean for you today to show respect for God, to be in awe of who He is and what He has done?

Read John 19:28-37

Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. - John 19:28-30 (NLT)

Jesus knew his mission, his purpose in God’s plan of salvation, and he continued to do it, in fulfillment of prophecy, right up to his final breath. As His followers, that’s our job too—to seek and follow God’s direction in our lives, in the power of the Holy Spirit, until we finally hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Read John 19:17-27

Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home. - John 19:25-27 (NLT)

Our culture teaches “Look out for Number One.” That is another challenge of the Christian walk — can we continue to trust God to look out for us, so that we can continue to live God’s love as we care for others even though our own situation grows ever more challenging and stressful? Yes, with the help of God.

Read John 19:12-16

Then Pilate tried to release [Jesus], but the Jewish leaders shouted, “If you release this man, you are no ‘friend of Caesar.’ Anyone who declares himself a king is a rebel against Caesar.”
…
Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified. - John 19:12,16a (NLT)

When pressure comes upon someone, you find out what’s inside. Geologic pressure can produce a valuable diamond, but it can also produce an earthquake or volcanic eruption, with all the death and destruction that entails. The evil one knows where each of our pressure points are. The question is “How are we going to react when pressure comes to turn away from following God?” May God increase our faith and our endurance as we continue to abide in Him.

Read John 18:38-19:11

Then Jesus said [to Pilate], “You would have no power over me at all unless it were given to you from above. So the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin.” - John 19:11 (NLT)

As with Pilate and the Jewish leaders, there are selfish, cruel or evil powers in our world, but they have no power to go beyond the boundaries God has put on them. No matter their intentions, the evil they do is only what God, for His own purposes, allows. And we can know that our suffering too will ultimately lead to more glory to God.

Read John 18:28-38a

Pilate said, “So you are a king?”

Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”

“What is truth?” Pilate asked. - John 18:37-38a (NLT)

The truth of God affects everyone. It guides those who believe, and convicts those who don’t believe. Pilate is not a believer, but he knows that there is more going on here than meets the eye. And so it is in our lives. As we testify to and live out the truth of God, some will believe and some will not, but our conscience will be clear because we have witnessed to God’s truth.

Read John 18:25-27

Again Peter denied [knowing Jesus]. And immediately a rooster crowed. - John 18:27 (NLT)

Pruning hurts, at least at first. Even though Jesus had predicted it to Peter, he still denied knowing Jesus three times. The crowing of the rooster brought Jesus’ words back to Peter, and he was devastated. But we will see later that he was moved not to despair, but to repentance. This is an example of how Law and Gospel are used together by God to strengthen our faith and prepare us for (more) service.

Read John 18:19-24

Jesus replied, “If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I’m speaking the truth, why are you beating me?” - John 18:23 (NLT)

The authority of Jesus comes through loud and clear. Annas has no answer, and sends Him to Caiaphas. The world has no real answer to the claims of Jesus, and often reacts with violence, even today. Pray that God would enable you also to stand firm in the word and authority of Jesus when you are confronted for your faith, and to even endure unjust consequences just as our Savior did.

Read John 18:13-18

Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. …
The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?”
“No,” he said, “I am not.” - John 18: 15a, 17 (NLT)

Following where Jesus is going can take us into uncomfortable places. We may find ourselves in hostile environments, like Peter; we may pass or fail the resulting test. When we pass, we have another example of God’s faithfulness to look back on when the next test comes. When we fail, we can throw ourselves on God’s mercy and forgiveness. Either way, this can be a teachable moment for us, as we learn how to trust God instead of ourselves.

Read John 18:1-12

“I told you that I am he,” Jesus said. “And since I am the one you want, let these others go.” … But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?” - John 18:8, 11 (NLT)

As Jesus’ final hours draw near, he is still protecting his disciples, and still accepting, even embracing his Father’s plan for our salvation in spite of the cost to himself. We, too, should be willing to accept whatever task the Father calls us to do, even if it involves discomfort or even suffering. For we know we can endure it through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Read John 17:25-26

[Jesus prayed] “I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.” - John 17:26 (NLT)

As Christians, God lives in us. As we experience the love of God for us, we in turn express it to others. The world does not understand this, but the revelation of God makes it real in our lives, and those whose lives we touch. Pray that you will see it happen in your life today.

Read John 17:15-24

[Jesus said] “ I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” - John 17:21 (NLT)

On the evening of Jesus’ arrest, one of the things he made sure to do was to pray for his disciples, and he included all future disciples as well. And one of the things he prayed for was that the disciples would be unified, would be one in him just as he was one with the Father. The purpose of our unity is that it would broadcast the truth of God’s power, love, and forgiveness to all who see it. So want what Jesus wanted—let that prayer for unity be yours today also.

Read John 17:16-19

[Jesus prayed] “They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.” -John 17:16-17 (NLT)

Having been called by Jesus, we no longer belong to this world. As the truth of God’s Word changes us, we become more and more unlike this world, more and more ready for the next. And we cannot do this on our own; only the truth of God’s Word can work this change in us.

Read John 17:6-15

[Jesus prayed] “Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.” - John 17:11 (NLT)

While seated now at the right hand of God, Jesus’ constant mission is to intercede for us, and so he models that for us here, praying for his disciples, that they would be united and be protected, and that their witness would bear fruit. Let us be about that same thing, continually asking for God to unite and protect us as we fulfill the Great Commission.

Read John 17:1-5

After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you.” - John 17:1 (NLT)

Following Jesus means doing what he did. The Father glorified Jesus, and Jesus gave the glory back to the Father. So when God works through our lives, we give all the glory back to Him as well. And God will bless us as we do.

Read John 16:29-33

“I [Jesus] have told you these things, so that you may have peace in me. In this world you are going to have trouble. But be courageous! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33 (NLT)

God reveals things to us so that we know He is in control. Then we can have peace, even as events do not go as we would hope or expect, even as relationships disappoint, even as we experience resistance while we do God’s work. So let His peace bring you calm and confidence today.

Read John 16:16-28

[Jesus said] “Amen, Amen, I tell you: You will weep and wail, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy.” - John 16:20 (NLT)

God’s ways are not our ways. When He acts, and we look on only with human eyes, we may be sad or disappointed. But God’s purposes will come to completion, and then we will have joy. This has been true since the crucifixion (sadness) and resurrection (joy), and is still true today.

Read John 16:12-15

[Jesus said] “There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth.” - John 16:12-13a (NLT)

Since we are not yet in heaven, we are not ready for “all knowledge.” So the Holy Spirit brings us along gradually, according to what the Son tells him we can bear at this time. Our job is to trust the Spirit’s guidance, to count on the Spirit telling us enough to handle our present situation, and in the future tell us more as we need it.

Read John 16:5-11

[Jesus said] “And when [the Holy Spirit] comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.” - John 16:8 (NLT)

The Holy Spirit does a number of things as he supports, comforts, and advocates for us here on earth as we await the return of Jesus. First, he convicts the world of sin. This is how we, and anyone else, become aware of our guilt vs. God’s standard for us. Second, he reveals the righteousness of God, and his grace in offering it to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Third, he makes us aware of God’s judgment of sin and Satan, and our own future judgment if we do not repent. The entire process of salvation is under his control.

Read John 16:1-4

[Jesus said] “I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith….Yes, I’m telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning. I didn’t tell you earlier because I was going to be with you for a while longer.” - John 16:1,4 (NLT)

God doesn’t tell us everything right away, or even when we think we need it, but when He knows we need it. He does this so that we will continue in faith, knowing that our future is in the secure hand and infinite love of God. So while we are warned that trouble lies ahead, we are encouraged and comforted that God is with us always.

Read John 15:18-27

[Jesus said] “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.“ - John 15:18 (NLT)

Doing the right thing often offends those whose desire is to do wrong. In the gospels we see this happen in Jesus’ life, and He warns us to expect no less in ours. But the Holy Spirit advocates for us in this as well, bearing witness to God’s truth at work in our lives, even in the face of the world’s hatred.

Read John 15:13-17

[Jesus said] “You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.” - John 15:16 (NLT)

Each of us who has been called by the gospel to follow Christ should keep this fact in mind, that we have been chosen not just to join Jesus in heaven, but to bear fruit here on earth. Examining our lives for those things that interfere with this, and asking the Father to prune them, is an important part of our fruitfulness.

Read John 15:9-12

[Jesus said] “This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you.” - John 15:12 (NLT)

God the Son became man (Jesus) to give us a true example of how we are to live as followers of God. And His example is to remain connected to the Father, and to love each other. We can truly love one another only through the power of God, but when we do, we have the joy of knowing we are truly living in harmony with God’s will.

Read John 15:3-8

[Jesus said] “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.” - John 15:4 (NLT)

Apart from God, we can do nothing (nothing good). Make it your life’s mission to remain connected to God in a real, loving relationship. If you do that, God will work through you and will produce much fruit. And whatever God does lasts forever. What a life to look forward to!

[Jesus said] “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.” - John 15:1-2 (NLT)

As Christians still in this earthly life, we all need work. God the Father watches over our growth, and sees the fruit we bear. Then He prunes us to make us even more fruitful. This pruning may be uncomfortable, or even painful, but it is necessary (and done for a good purpose). We can endure the pruning by drawing strength from Jesus, the vine, and by remembering that the alternative to pruning is being cut off entirely.

Read John 14:22-31

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.” - John 14:23 (NLT)

Jesus lived among us to show us what love and service look like, so that we would have a model for how to obey His commands. Even so, we cannot obey on our own, but we can when strengthened by the Holy Spirit. Like Jesus, our love and service may be accepted or rejected by the recipients; nevertheless, love and service remains our calling, our testament to the power of the Good News.

Read John 14:15-21

[Jesus said] “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.” - John 14:16-17 (NLT)

When Satan, the Accuser, comes against us, the Holy Spirit is our Advocate and Defender. When the world comes against us, the Holy Spirit advocates for us by working through us to show God’s righteousness. When our own sins call us to disobedience, the Holy Spirit calls to mind the incredible love and sacrifice our Savior has made for us, and draws us back to confession and repentance. Christ has not left us orphaned; we have an Advocate.

Read John 14:8-14

[Jesus said] “You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.” - John 14:13 (NLT)

This is an amazing promise, and the reason we often end our prayers with “in Jesus’ name.” But the “so that…” is key. We are to ask for things that will bring glory to the Father, just as Jesus did when He was on earth. Jesus promises to do His works through us as we seek to do works that are in conformity with His will.

Read John 14:1-7

[Jesus said] “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” - John 14:3 (NLT)

Jesus’ intention for us is to be with Him now and forever. Most of us are looking for the forever (heaven), but many of us often forget that we can be with Jesus now as well. We forget when we hold off on following because we want more information. We forget when we back off of the truth because it might make someone uncomfortable. Today make being with Jesus your goal, and see what He brings to your life.

Read John 13:31-38

[Jesus said] “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” - John 13:35 (NLT)

We are not very lovable, and we are not willing to love others, at least not the sacrificial way Jesus intends, except by the grace of God. So our love for others will be a living demonstration of the power of God at work within us. It is also a way we can monitor our own closeness to God; as we find our love diminishing, we can know that it is time to reconnect to God so that more of His grace can flow to and through us.

Read John 13:21-30

When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.” - John 13:27 (NLT)

Jesus is troubled for Judas; He is still trying to reach Judas; But at some point, when Judas’ mind is made up and he refuses to change, Jesus allows Satan to enter him. Jesus is always trying to reach us too, but we can push Him away to our own damnation. The only way to avoid this is to keep our trust in God rather than ourselves, and allow Him to continually put to death our sinful nature.

Read John 13:12-20

[Jesus said] “I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me.” - John 13:20 (NLT)

We are called to be God’s messengers, bringing the good news of the Gospel to all the world, even to our immediate community. There will be resistance, but that is not our primary concern; we can leave that to God. Our primary concern is to remain a faithful messenger, not betraying God either by adding to or subtracting from His message. Then on those occasions when we are welcomed, we will know that our hearers are in fact welcoming the Father and the Son as we have proclaimed them.

Read John 13:1-11

Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.” - John 13:7 (NLT)

Sometimes the Evil One attacks our assurance of God’s love, forgiveness and salvation. Often this happens when things in our lives aren’t going as expected. This is when it is most important for us to trust in God’s guidance, care and provision for us, even though in the moment we don’t understand.

Read John 12:44-50

Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me. For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me. I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark. ” - John 12:44-46 (NLT)

Jesus is not just an enlightened human teacher. He is God incarnate, God in human form. His life and death have accomplished everything needed for our salvation; we have only to trust rather than reject Him. As a light in the darkness of our sinful world, He enables us to proceed safely through this life to the next.

Read John 12:37-43

Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.- John 12:42-43 (NLT)

Believing in Jesus has consequences. It will change the way some people receive us and react to us. Each of us must choose, every day, whether to value the approval of other people more than the approval of God. Pray that God would show you what fears are keeping you from whole-heartedly following Him, and to dispel those fears.

Read John 12:34-36

Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going.” - John 12:35 (NLT)

Every single day we live, we will either become more like Christ or less like Christ. We do this by listening and obeying Christ—“walking in the light.” The more we listen, the more we can learn, understand and obey, while recognizing that we’re not going to have full knowledge of reasons or results this side of heaven.

Read John 12:27-33

[Jesus said] “Father, bring glory to your name.” - John 12:28 (NLT)

As we follow God’s leading, we can find ourselves in distressing situations. Discouragement or fear can weaken our willingness to keep following. We may not see any evidence of “success.” At those times, we can remember Jesus’ reaction to similar circumstances—“Father, bring glory to your name.” Let it be enough for you too, to seek only to glorify God, whatever that may look like from a worldly standpoint at this moment.

Read John 12:20-26

[Jesus said] “Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.“ - John 12:25 (NLT)

We all have had dreams and plans for our lives. Some of these we have given up as unrealistic, but some are still attractive and pulling us toward their fulfillment. It is these plans that Jesus calls us to give up (“care nothing for life in this world”) in order that we might have an eternally effective life in Him and His service. This is a tall order, so it requires that we daily seek deeper unity with Jesus and His will.

Read John 12:12-19

His disciples didn’t understand at the time that this was a fulfillment of prophecy. But after Jesus entered into his glory, they remembered what had happened and realized that these things had been written about him. - John 12:16 (NLT)

All of Jesus’ life on earth was fulfillment of prophecy after prophecy. And those who knew the Scriptures (eventually) recognized what God was doing, showing up in His Son and validating His ministry. So how are you responding to God’s presence in your life? Are you recognizing what He is doing? Be sure to set aside time each day to seek and respond to God’s presence.

Read John 12:4-11

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” …
Jesus replied, “Leave her alone. She did this in preparation for my burial.” - John 12:5-6, 8 (NLT)

If our religion becomes a to-do list, then it is easy to lose focus on Jesus and His will and priorities. Reconnecting with Jesus allows us to once again see the bigger picture of what God is doing in our world and wants to do in out lives.

Read John 11:55-12:3

[The people] kept looking for Jesus, but as they stood around in the Temple, they said to each other, “What do you think? He won’t come for Passover, will he?” Meanwhile, the leading priests and Pharisees had publicly ordered that anyone seeing Jesus must report it immediately so they could arrest him. - John 11:56-57 (NLT)

It was getting dangerous for Jesus to be in public, and everyone knew it. Jesus knew it too, but He was not deterred. He had already counted the cost of the way of the cross and determined to pay it—for us. In this new year, let us also count the cost and be willing to pay it as we follow the way of the cross.

Read John 11:45-54

Caiaphas, who was high priest at that time, said, “You don’t know what you’re talking about! You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.” - John 11:49-50 (NLT)

While we may say “God is in control”, often we feel that we must do something so God doesn’t fail. The chief priests in today’s reading felt that way. In spite of their history of deliverance by God, which they could read in their scriptures (our Old Testament), they thought they had to help God out by getting rid of this arrogant, blaspheming threat to God’s glory (because he couldn’t actually be who he said he was, could he?). But in spite of their opposition, God’s will was done anyway. Jesus completed his mission, to live and die and rise again that we might be forever forgiven and saved from all of our sins.

Are there areas of your life where you are telling God “Looks like you’re having trouble. Let me take over for a while.”? Recommit to trusting God more, especially when it’s difficult.

Read John 11:16-44

Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me.” - John 11:41b-42 (NLT)

In our minds, if we think about it, we know Jesus is “The Resurrection and The Life”. Yet often in our day-to-day hearts we think that that is for later, after we leave this earth, rather than for right now. This year, tune in to the resurrection power of God. Tune in to what God can do in and through us if we will only believe.

Read John 11:8-15

Jesus replied, “There are twelve hours of daylight every day. During the day people can walk safely. They can see because they have the light of this world. But at night there is danger of stumbling because they have no light.” - John 11:9-10 (NLT)

Light encourages accountability. This is true in the ordinary physical world, but it is also true in our spiritual walk. When we are walking in the light of Christ, we tend to recognize our accountability to God. If we let ourselves drift away into spiritual darkness, it becomes easier to rationalize sinful desires and actions. This is why staying connected to Christ is so important.

Read John 11:1-7

But when Jesus heard about it he said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” - John 11:4 (NLT)

When we are suffering, it is harder to wait to see how God is working, to trust that He is working even in the midst of our suffering. May God increase our faith during this new year so that we can trust Him in all things, and through all things.

Read John 10:31-42

“Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work. But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.” - John 10:37-38 (NLT)

The evidence of Jesus’ divinity was that He did the work of God, fulfilling the prophecies about the Messiah. The proof of the Holy Spirit residing in us is that we do the work of God (though we don’t actually do the work, but the Holy Spirit working through us) and point people to Jesus. Let’s make that our goal for 2023.

Read John 10:22-30

[Jesus said] “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.” - John 10:27-30 (NLT)

We need Jesus. Without Him, we are lost. When we live in dependence on God day to day, our eternity is secure. When we are in God, no one can take us away.

God is good, and we are blessed. Merry Christmas!

Read John 10:19-21

When [Jesus] said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him. - John 10:19 (NLT)

Often we are divided in our opinion of what God is saying to us. On the one hand, it may resonate with us as being a true reflection of what is going on in our lives. On the other hand, it may challenge or even scare us as we are unsure of what God will lead us into next. Resolve today to cultivate a greater trust that God knows what is best, both for you and for His kingdom, and get ready to follow where he leads.

Read John 10:11-18

I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd. - John 10:16 (NLT)

We are in a spiritual war. Our only source of direction is our Shepherd’s voice. Whether the listening is easy or hard, whether the obedience is easy or hard, whether just believing is easy or hard, we must continue to listen for our Savior’s voice and follow His direction, for He loves us even to the point of giving His life.

Read John 10:6-11

[Jesus said] “Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” – John 10:9-10 (NLT)

The Good Shepherd leads his sheep into abundant life, as defined by God —a life of love, experiencing and expressing the love of God, transcending circumstances. And there is only one Gate through which we can approach God. So today’s question is, “Am I coming to God through the Gate? Do I understand my need for Jesus, the only Gate to God?” Let’s meditate on that today.

Read John 10:1-5

“[The sheep] won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” – John 10:5 (NLT)

Having come to know Jesus, we recognize that He alone has our good in mind. He alone will nourish and protect us. But the enemy does not give up; he wars against the Shepherd and His sheep, and does his best to lead at least some of them astray. Do you recognize this war in your own life? By staying connected to Jesus, we grow accustomed to His voice, and are less likely to mistake the devil’s voice for that of our Savior.

Read John 9:35-41

“If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.” – John 9:41 (NLT)

Every day we need to wrestle with the idea that we might be blinded to our sin by the world, the devil, and our own sinful flesh. We must constantly re-calibrate our lives to God’s pattern by seeking Him in scripture, in prayer, and in the counsel of other godly Christians. Do not fall into the trap of thinking “Finally! I’ve got it all figured out. I don’t have to change anything else.”

Read John 9:30-34

“If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have [healed my eyes].” – John 9:33 (NLT)

God can do amazing things in our lives, once we humble ourselves and ask Him to rescue us. But if we’re too proud to admit that we still need help, we will remain stuck in whatever ‘blindness’ keeps us from recognizing how far we fall short of God’s standard. Today, choose humility over pride, and let God ‘open your eyes’.

Read John 9:20-29

“I don’t know whether he [Jesus] is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!” – John 9:25 (NLT)

When God works in our lives, we are not called to explain or justify it; our only duty is to testify to the power and goodness of God. Then we can also let God open our eyes to His word and His guidance as He shapes and changes our lives going forward.

Read John 9:13-19

Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them. – John 9:16 (NLT)

God is able to do infinitely more than we might ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). This is often difficult for Christians to believe. Too often we think that God can only work the way we have seen him work before, and in our minds we limit what we will accept as being the work of God. This is the Pharisees’ problem here. They know the command to not work on the Sabbath, but they lose track of the reason for the command – that continual work without rest is not good for us. The command was not meant to prevent us from doing good to or for others. So today ask God to enlarge your understanding and enable you to believe in a bigger God, because our God is infinitely bigger than we can imagine.

Read John 9:8-12

He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!” – John 9:11 (NLT)

When God works great changes in our lives, other people notice. And they want explanations for themselves, sometimes just to clarify what happened, sometimes to see if they can get the same change, and sometimes to see if there’s a way to discredit what happened. Many times, our answer will be “I don’t know exactly how. What I know is that God did it.” Whether or not that’s enough for others, may it always be enough for us.

Read John 9:1-7

“It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him.” – John 9:3 (NLT)

It is wonderful when we see God’s blessing in our lives. But what about the times it seems He has forgotten us, or is ignoring us? In this incident Jesus reminds His disciples that all aspects of our lives, the good and the bad, fit into God’s plan to bring glory to Himself and draw people to salvation. So especially in your tough times, allow God to get you miracle-ready.

Read John 8:52-59

[The people said] “Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?” …

Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!” – John 8:52, 59 (NLT)

God is not like us. Even when Jesus came in human form, He was like us only in outward form, not in His thoughts, words, and actions. As we confront the truth of God more and more, it can be difficult to believe all of the claims of Christ. So we need discernment to distinguish the truth of God from the lies of the world, the devil, and our own desires. The only remedy is to be in the Word of God every day so we’re not easy pickings for the evil one.

Read John 8:31-51

[Jesus said] “Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!” – John 8:43 (NLT)

Before we can recognize God’s truth, we must hear it. Studying God’s Word, praying transparently (pouring out all our fears, frustrations, and doubts as well as giving him our thanks and praise), getting in fellowship with other Godly Christians who are doing the same—these are some of the ways we can hear from God. Only then are we ready and able to repent and obey.

Read John 8:21-30

[Jesus said] “I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me. And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.” – John 8:28b-29 (NLT)

Obedience matters. It mattered to Jesus—that was the only way He could successfully die in our place and bring us forgiveness. And it matters for us too. We won’t be able to obey perfectly, but if our sight is always set on Jesus, who did obey perfectly, we will constantly be drawn back to Him when we do fall short, and be able to seek and receive His forgiveness.

Read John 8:12-20

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” – John 8:12 (NLT)

Since the Fall, the natural spiritual state of the world is darkness, unless dispelled by the light of Jesus. Jesus is the light of the world, and Jesus in us can bring light to our corner of the world. Sadly, some choose to remain in darkness, but that need not be your situation. Come to the light, today and every day, for renewal and clarity of vision as to God’s will for you.

Read John 8:1-11

Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”

“No, Lord,” she said.

And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” – John 8:10-11 (NLT)

Once again the amazing grace of God is on full display. When the Pharisees come to Jesus looking for judgment (of someone else), Jesus silences them, and offers the opportunity for redemption instead. Law and gospel work together to both convict of sin and empower righteousness. We dare not ignore either one.

Read John 7:45-52

Then Nicodemus, the leader who had met with Jesus earlier, spoke up. “Is it legal to convict a man before he is given a hearing?” he asked. – John 7:50-51 (NLT)

Sometimes it’s hard not to go along with the crowd, but that’s what Nicodemus did. When his colleagues in leadership were defaming Jesus, he provided a counterpoint. He attempted to steer the conversation toward something they could all agree on; even though his point wasn’t accepted, at least he hadn’t tried to stir up more conflict. Today we sometimes get opportunities to speak up in support of Jesus and his message. Let us also speak up, with gentleness and respect, as we point others to the Savior.

Read John 7:37-44

On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” – John 7:37-38 (NLT)

What is your relationship to God like today? Are you thirsty for more of Him? Are you willing to admit that you need Him in every aspect of your life, that without Him you are like a person in desperate need of water? If not, today’s a great day to recalibrate, to get back into a right relationship with your Lord and Master, that He would fill you with His living water, so that it can also flow through you to others.

Read John 7:25-36

While Jesus was teaching in the Temple, he called out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I come from. But I’m not here on my own. The one who sent me is true, and you don’t know him.” – John 7:28 (NLT)

Growing up, Jesus seemed like an ordinary Jewish boy (except for being sinless, of course), and certainly didn’t do the spectacular miracles of his ministry after his baptism. So some people held this against him, since it didn’t fit their expectations of the Messiah. They used it as an argument against his teaching. Likewise, people today may use our past or our lack of worldly success or recognition as an argument against the truth of what we say about God and his salvation plan for all of us. That should not deter us; we can acknowledge whatever shortcomings there may be in our lives while still proclaiming God’s truth.

Read John 7:19-24

“For if the correct time for circumcising your son falls on the Sabbath, you go ahead and do it so as not to break the law of Moses. So why should you be angry with me for healing a man on the Sabbath? Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.” – John 7:23-24 (NLT)

The Sabbath (setting aside one day a week to rest and deepen our relationship with God) was created by God to protect us, not to confine us. We can easily be tempted to work every day; remembering the Sabbath protects us from working ourselves to death. It also reminds us that God’s working, not our working, is the ultimate source of all good things in our lives. We don’t have to fear that taking a day to honor and relate to God will lead to our “not having enough”. So honor the spirit of the Sabbath by using a day per week to draw nearer to God, and rest in His love.

Read John 7:10-18

So Jesus told them, “My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me.” – John 7:16 (NLT)

We are also called to speak not our own message, but the gospel, the good news message from God. Fear of inadequacy or rejection can lead us to suppress that message, but the more we abide in Christ, the more confident we become of God’s adequacy to use even us to proclaim His message of salvation. So let the gospel flow through you each and every day.

Read John 7:1-9

Jesus replied, “Now is not the right time for me to go, but you can go anytime. The world can’t hate you, but it does hate me because I accuse it of doing evil. You go on. I’m not going to this festival, because my time has not yet come.” – John 7:6-8 (NLT)

Where are you in your faith journey? Are you looking to be famous, to always put up a good front, or are you ready to accept God’s correction of sin in your life and model repentance for others?

Read John 6:60-71

[Jesus said] “The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” – John 6:63 (NLT)

Some of Jesus’ teachings are hard. At some point, we need to recognize that rather than continuing to expend our energy attempting to understand, we must shift to directing our efforts toward obedience, trusting that we will understand when it becomes necessary. Obedience often changes our hearts, which allows the Spirit to further work His will in our lives and lead us to greater faith and greater understanding.

Read John 6:47-59

[Jesus said] “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life.” - John 6:47 (NLT)

Believes in what, exactly? Jesus is our Messiah and Lord. He is the Bread of Life, come down from (and now returned to) heaven. He is God, He lived a perfect life, He died in our place, and God has raised Him from the dead. He will come again to gather His own and judge the world. At first hearing, even some of this is a lot to understand (and believe). But Jesus was also fully human, and understands our hesitation and doubt. So He keeps confronting us with His reality, and His Spirit enables us to understand and believe more and more as we journey through our Christian life.

Read John 5:28-30

Don’t be so surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son, and they will rise again. - John 5:28-29a (NLT)

God encourages us to live with our end in mind. We will all be raised again after death, and separated into those who have let God work good in and through them, and those who have continued to try to reach God in their own strength. Since our own strength is tainted by sin just like our own thoughts, words, and attitudes, that will end in disappointment and judgment. So if you’re still trying to earn your way to God, today’s a great day to change, and let Jesus’ righteousness become yours.

Read John 5:16-27

In addition, the Father judges no one. Instead, he has given the Son absolute authority to judge – John 5:22 (NLT)

Our knowledge is imperfect and incomplete. We must be careful when we are inclined to judge others, lest we find ourselves in the position of the religious leaders in this passage, who were passing judgment on the one and only true judge, Jesus himself. Attempt to clarify situations and help others reconsider their actions, but do not usurp Jesus’ authority to be the ultimate judge.

Read John 5:9-15

But he replied, “The man who healed me told me, ‘Pick up your mat and walk.’” – John 5:11 (NLT)

Sometimes God doesn’t show up in our lives in powerful ways until we are desperate enough to finally listen to what He wants to teach us, or go where He wants to direct us. But when that happens, we suddenly find that we have the motivation, desire and ability to obey, when we didn’t before. This can truly be a life-changing moment.

Read John 5:1-9

When Jesus saw him and knew he had been ill for a long time, he asked him, “Would you like to get well?” – John 5:6 (NLT)

All of us are a work in progress, spiritually. As we continue to seek God, He brings to our attention another area of our lives where we are not yet aligned with His will and asks, “Would you like to get well?” As we move beyond our initial reaction (perhaps based on repeated failures) of “I can’t,” and listen to and obey God’s direction, we will find that we can get well through God’s power to change the way we think, speak and act. Where are you telling God “I can’t” today? Of course you can’t. But the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in you, and He can.

Read John 4:43-54

Jesus asked, “Will you never believe in me unless you see miraculous signs and wonders?” – John 4:48 (NLT)

Jesus is certainly capable of performing signs and wonders, in 1st century Palestine and in 21st century America. But he desires that we move deeper in our trust and belief, so that we are not continually wanting one more miracle before we fully commit to seeking and following His will. So continue to bring your needs to God, but don’t hold back putting your faith into action while waiting for His answers.

Read John 4:39-42

Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world.” – John 4:42 (NLT)

The Samaritan woman testified to her neighbors about Jesus, but also introduced them to Him. It is the encounter with Jesus himself that changes people, that brings them from darkness into light. The same is true for us. It is not enough that we had faithful parents, or know all about Jesus. We need to know Him personally ourselves. Only then are we able to introduce others to Him.

Read John 4:27-38

You know the saying, ‘Four months between planting and harvest.’ But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest. -John 4:35 (NLT)

One plants and another harvests. Faithful Christians before us have planted, and that seed is now ready to bear fruit. At any moment our witness may be used by the Holy Spirit to open someone’s spiritual eyes, resulting in their coming to saving faith in Jesus. The harvest is ready. You are called to harvest spiritual fruit. Pray for the wisdom to see that harvest wherever it is, and to gather the newly faithful into God’ kingdom.

Read John 4:13-26

“But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” – John 4:23-24 (NLT)

Jesus’s first public revelation of himself as the Messiah is to a Samaritan woman, who would be viewed by Jews as a heretic if not an unbeliever. In this conversation the woman comes to realize that Jesus knows her completely and fully, and in an instant her life is changed. Worship is not about rules and special places, but about having a right relationship with God, knowing that He is completely worthy of our adoration and obedience. How about you? Do you understand deep in your soul that Jesus has already known your every thought, word and action—and has already forgiven every one that is less than good? Spend some time today letting God remind you afresh of His saving love.

Read John 4:1-12

“But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? And besides, do you think you’re greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?”

– John 4:12-13 (NLT)

As Jesus is speaking with the Samaritan woman, he engages with her around commonalities between their two different cultures. He continues the conversation until she brings up a spiritual idea, that the well they are at goes back to Jacob, the patriarch of the twelve tribes of Israel. Then Jesus goes into the heavier spiritual stuff, ending with the revelation that he is in fact the Messiah. In the same way, as we deal with those of a different (physical or spiritual) culture, we should be alert for common ground that we can use to bridge the gap between us and foster deeper spiritual conversations.

Read John 3:31-36

[Jesus] testifies about what he has seen and heard, but how few believe what he tells them! – John 3:32 (NLT)

Each of us has a worldview, a set of attitudes and beliefs that guide our choices in life. We naturally (because of sin) want to go our own way, to figure life out for ourselves, but there is another way. Jesus is the Author of Life, He knows how life is supposed to work, and His guidance is intended to bless us in this life as well as the next. So this Lenten season, give thought again to the question “Whom am I going to trust?” and believe what God has and is telling you.

Read John 3:22-30

[John the Baptist told his disciples] “He [Jesus] must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.” – John 3:30 (NLT)

John perfectly pictures the process of Christian growth—surrendering more and more of our will to God and allowing God’s will to have more and more control of our thoughts, words, and actions. So how’s that going in your life? As we begin the Lenten season, today is a great day to refocus on this process and allow God to be exalted more and more in our lives.

Read John 3:16-21

There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son. – John 3:18 (NLT)

Believing in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord is the only way to eternal life, but also the only way to truly live successfully in the here and now. Once we accept that we can do nothing on our own to save ourselves, we become able to submit to the Holy Spirit’s guiding in our daily life, knowing that we can do nothing on our own today that is not tainted by sin either. And, having trusted Jesus for our salvation, we are not judged by God when we recognize and confess our sins, but are freely and fully forgiven by Him.

Read John 3:1-15

Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.

– John 3:5-6 (NLT)

If our faith is based more on trusting in how well we can obey God, we are doomed to failure. Being born of water and the spirit involves letting God create spiritual life in us, and trusting in God to be faithful to His promise to live in us now and give us life for all eternity.

Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust in him. But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew all about people. No one needed to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart.- John 2:23-25 (NLT)

As Jesus began to be known for the power of His miracles and His teaching, many people were drawn to Him. But Jesus knew human nature; He knew that they had their own idea of what the Messiah would do, and did not trust them to be open to God’s plan. In the same way, when we are acting in the power of the Holy Spirit, people will be drawn to us. We must make sure to connect them to God rather than let them make us out to be someone great, and then use us for their purposes.

Read John 2:13-22

Then, going over to the people who sold doves, [Jesus] told them, “Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!”

Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.” – John 2:16-17 (NLT)

Jesus was angered that people had turned what should be a sacred space dedicated to the worship of God into a place of commerce. It is so easy for each of us, as well, to neglect what should be space and time devoted to God and allow the ordinary routines of the rest of our life to encroach upon it. Lord Jesus, show us the places where we need to let You make a holy space in our lives, and remove our resistance so that we will allow it to happen.

Read John 2:1-12

This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. John 2:11 (NLT)

Because the Holy Spirit lives in us, God is able to do miraculous things in our lives, too. Our only task is to not resist the Spirit as He prompts us to speak and to act. Are you attempting to live the Christian life in your own strength? Or are you willing to let God reveal His glory in and through your life?

Read John 1:35-51

As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. – John 1:36-37 (NLT)

Being ready to follow Jesus is one of the keys to staying in the will of God. When confronted with testimony or evidence of the specialness of Jesus (the testimony of John the Baptist or close friends they knew and trusted, Jesus’ personal knowledge of strangers, Jesus’ personal invitation), they respond immediately. Let’s pray that we also will be ready to follow the calling of God today and every day.

Read John 1:29-34

[Then John testified,] “I didn’t know {Jesus] was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ “ – John 1:33 (NLT)

Waiting on God is difficult at times, but it is essential to staying within God’s will. As we wait on God to make us more like Jesus, we become more comfortable not knowing the specifics of our future ministry, but just faithfully continuing in our present calling.

Read John 1:19-28

This was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, “Who are you?” He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.” – John 1:19-20 (NLT)

Obedience requires that we stay clear on what God has called us to do, and not try to puff up our status or authority. This year, remember that the presence of God encroaches on any authority we think we have. Recognize that God is the only real authority in your life, and live that way in His strength.

Read John 1:6-18

John testified about [Jesus] when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’” John 1:15 (NLT)

John the Baptist was used in amazing ways by God, including pointing people to Jesus, the Messiah. But he never lost sight of the fact that he was just a messenger, that believing in Jesus, fully God and fully man, is our only hope of salvation. As we head into the new year, let’s remember to honor God for all that He is, and give Him all the glory for our salvation.

Read John 1:1-5

The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. John 1:4 (NLT)

In Genesis, God spoke, and things happened. Jesus, the Word of God, was the instrument of creation, and has sustained us ever since. In our sin we fall into darkness and push God away, but when Jesus came in human form, he overcame our darkness. So where are you on the journey of understanding who Jesus is, and surrendering to His will? As you get ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus, remember who He is.