We covered a lot of ground in our reading this week. I believe there is a theme throughout the whole that is very important for us to see: Words have power. This truth is shown in three unique ways in the three scenarios we read this week—three things that are important for us to learn and practice.
Words can anchor you to TRUTH.
Read MoreViktor was a notorious drug dealer running a major drug operation in Tajikistan in the early 1990’s. He was so successful at what he did, that he was offered a job to smuggle drugs across the border into Afghanistan that would increase his operations dramatically. However, he was arrested in 1996 after being caught with 9 pounds of heroin. While in jail he began to have increased depression and anxiety because of his confinement. He began to contemplate suicide. “I felt empty inside and did not want to live anymore. I did not know how long I would be in jail,” he said.
Read MoreAs I contemplate this passage, there are a couple of things that cause me to ponder my posture of worship. First, am I truly a friend of the bridegroom, desiring to decrease, having Jesus increase? What is the condition of my heart? For if the Father desires His children to worship Him in Spirit and in truth, I must be truthful with myself in order to worship Him for Who He is; not what I stand to gain in my worship experience.
Read MoreSince Jesus is the Word (John 1:1,ESV), what He says naturally exudes authority. The official in this story is imploring Jesus to come and heal his son. Jesus first responds with a comment about the general lack of belief among His fellow Israelites, unless it is accompanied by visible signs and wonders. However, the man is not deterred and redoubles his demand by saying, “Sir, come down before my child dies” (John 4:49, ESV).
Read MoreJesus and his disciples were in the Judean countryside, and John the Baptist and his disciples were near by—both were baptizing people. John’s disciples come to him confused and jealous that people are going to Jesus instead of coming to them for baptism. John’s response really sums up this first section: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). John reaffirms what his role is, and points to the truth of who Jesus is.
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