Daily Bible Affirmation for September 15, 2020 – John 11:11

/ Daily Bible Affirmation

John 11:11

Bible Verse

“After he had said this, he went on to tell them, ‘Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.’” – John 11:11

Reflection

The verse from John 11:11 is a profound moment in the Gospel of John that captures both the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ. In this passage, Jesus speaks of Lazarus, referring to his death as a mere sleep and indicating His intention to awaken him. This statement holds several layers of meaning and offers rich insights for us in our spiritual journey today.

Firstly, Jesus’ use of the term “sleep” suggests a perspective on death that is rooted in hope and assurance. While those around Him may have perceived death as the end, Jesus reframed it as a temporary state, akin to sleep, from which one can rise again. This provides us with immense comfort. In the face of loss or any form of “death”—be it the end of a chapter, the closure of an opportunity, or a period of spiritual dryness—we are reminded that it is not permanent. With God, there is always a promise of renewal and resurrection, even in situations that seem final.

Moreover, Jesus’ decision to “go there” illustrates His deep compassion and personal involvement in our lives. He is not distant or indifferent to our pain; rather, He steps into our circumstances with the power to transform them. This speaks to the heart of who Jesus is—an ever-present Savior who moves towards us in our moments of need, carrying with Him the light of hope and restoration.

Reflecting on this verse can reshape how we approach our daily struggles. It encourages us to adopt a divine perspective on life’s challenges, viewing them not as dead ends but as opportunities for God to demonstrate His grace and power. In our lived experience, each “sleep,” each setback, can become a canvas for a new beginning through faith.

Also, consider the relational aspect of this passage. Jesus refers to Lazarus as “our friend.” This title not only conveys the personal relationship He shared with Lazarus but also connects with us, His followers, emphasizing our inclusion in this divine friendship. It is a reminder that our lives are valuable to God, intimately known and loved. Our connection with Him offers a support system that is unwaveringly loyal and endures beyond any hardship.

In applying this scripture to our lives, we can find reassurance in God’s timing and sovereignty. Even when Jesus delayed His visit to Bethany, it was not without purpose. The story of Lazarus ultimately unfolds into a testament of God’s glory and a deeper revelation of Christ’s power. Our patience and trust in God’s perfect timing can lead to the unfolding of His wondrous plans that surpass our understanding.

Closing Thought

John 11:11 invites us to be renewed in our trust and hope in God’s faithfulness. Let each challenge become a gentle reminder that with Jesus, every end is a new beginning—every sleep, an opportunity for miraculous awakening. In God’s hands, even the impossible is transformed into a testament of love and divine possibility.

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 15, 2020 – John 11:11 Read Post »

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 14, 2020 – Daniel 9:25

/ Daily Bible Affirmation

Daniel 9:25

Bible Verse

“Know therefore and understand that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.” – Daniel 9:25

Reflection

The verse in Daniel 9:25 offers a fascinating glimpse into the prophetic revelations that Daniel received, laden with hope and profound expectations for the future. The passage speaks to the faithfulness of God and His overarching plan for humanity. At its core, this verse emphasizes the certainty and divine timing of God’s promises.

To fully appreciate this scripture, we need to understand the context of Daniel’s time. Daniel lived during a period of exile for the Israelites, a time fraught with uncertainty and longing for redemption. Amidst these tumultuous circumstances, God provided a detailed prophecy about the restoration of Jerusalem and the coming of the Anointed One, signaling a message of unwavering hope and assurance.

The reference to the “commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem” marks a pivotal moment in God’s master plan—a promise of restoration even in the midst of current despair. This moment is not just an isolated historical event but a timeless reminder that God’s promises endure and manifest even during our personal trials. It is a message relevant to anyone facing periods of waiting or delay in their lives. The timeframes mentioned in the verse highlight the patience and perseverance required while waiting on God’s timing, encouraging us to remain steadfast even when we cannot see the immediate results.

The mention of the Messiah in this verse is particularly significant to Christians, as it reveals the hope of salvation and deliverance. Jesus, as the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy, represents the beacon of hope that transcends beyond the struggles we face today. The anticipation of His coming reminds us that God’s plan is always working towards the good, bringing light into areas of darkness in our lives.

Moreover, the phrase “troublous times” speaks directly to the reality that even amidst challenges, God’s building and restoration work will continue. For those navigating difficulties today, this is a source of comfort and reassurance. It is a call to persevere and trust in God’s purpose, knowing that He is always with us, rebuilding and strengthening us in His perfect time.

The verse challenges believers to take heart and reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout history. It is a gentle encouragement to trust Him more deeply, knowing that our personal and collective stories are part of a grander narrative authored by God. Just as the streets and walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt, despite seemingly impossible odds, so too can we rebuild the areas of our lives that seem insurmountable, by the grace and guidance of God.

Closing Thought

As you journey through life, let Daniel 9:25 remind you of God’s impeccable timing and unfailing promises. Trust that every step—while perhaps not in your anticipated timeline—leads toward a rebuilding and renewal orchestrated by God’s perfect plan. Embrace His hope, let perseverance be your companion, and continue to walk in faith, knowing that His love and grace guide every moment.

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 14, 2020 – Daniel 9:25 Read Post »

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 13, 2020 – Acts 11:27

/ Daily Bible Affirmation

Acts 11:27

Bible Verse

Acts 11:27 – “During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.”

Reflection

Acts 11:27 offers a small glimpse into a much larger narrative—one of deep significance and transformation for the early Christian community. The mention of prophets traveling from Jerusalem to Antioch might seem minor, but it invites us to reflect on the interconnectedness of the early Church and the dynamic movement of God’s Holy Spirit.

The arrival of prophets was no small event. In Biblical times, prophets were seen as vital messengers, bearers of God’s wisdom and guidance. Their journey from Jerusalem to Antioch signifies a pivotal connection between two significant centers of early Christianity. Antioch, often regarded as the cradle of the Gentile mission, was a site where believers were first called Christians. It highlights the mission and purpose of the Church to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, uniting believers in their shared faith.

This movement speaks to the heart of inclusivity within the Christian experience, showing that God’s love knows no bounds and that faith communities are called to embrace and unite in diversity. The sharing of knowledge, encouragement, and prophecy between these two communities is a testament to how God uses different people to build and strengthen His Church. It’s a beautiful illustration of unity and cooperation, grounded in a shared purpose of uplifting one another.

In our own lives, the travel of these prophets can metaphorically represent the journey of wisdom and inspiration we undertake. Just as these early Christians thrived on cooperative, faith-driven action, we too can grow by remaining open to the words and insights of others. God frequently speaks through community, and by being receptive to this divine communication, we grow in understanding and compassion.

Additionally, this short verse encourages us to consider how we can be modern-day missionaries of love and hope, acting as conduits for God’s messages in our communities. Whether through sharing a kind word, offering support to a neighbor, or standing with those who feel marginalized, we reflect the spirit of the early Church by spreading God’s love. Acts 11:27 subtly reminds us of the ripples created through acts of faith and how they can transcend limits we might not even see.

By cultivating inclusivity and openness in our own circles, we echo the movement of the early prophets, facilitating conversations and exchanges that value each person’s contribution and experience. It challenges us to seek out opportunities for growth and understanding, breaking down barriers and creating connections that are fueled by faith and love.

Closing Thought

Acts 11:27, though brief, encapsulates a profound truth about the power of connection and collaboration in faith. As we go about our days, may we embrace opportunities to be messengers of hope and unity, nurturing a spirit of love that bridges divides and draws us closer to the heart of God’s endless grace.

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 13, 2020 – Acts 11:27 Read Post »

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 12, 2020 – Psalm 22:15

/ Daily Bible Affirmation

Psalm 22:15

Bible Verse

“My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death.” – Psalm 22:15

Reflection

Psalm 22:15 is a poignant expression of deep suffering and vulnerability, yet beneath its solemn words lies a profound opportunity for reflection on the enduring nature of faith. The verse metaphorically describes a state of utter exhaustion and desperation. At first glance, the imagery of being “dried up like a potsherd” and having a tongue stuck “to the roof of my mouth” might seem overwhelmingly bleak. However, it is in these moments of profound despair that our faith invites us into a deeper connection with God’s love and grace.

The timeless message of Psalm 22 encourages us to lean into God’s presence during our trials. When David wrote these words, he was not solely focused on his suffering, but rather, he conveyed a powerful testimony of human weakness paired with a search for divine strength. The psalm reflects a raw, honest dialogue with God, demonstrating that our faith is not void of struggle but enriched through it. When we find ourselves in periods of life where our own strength appears depleted, we are gently reminded that our journey is not meant to be traveled alone.

This verse acts as a bridge to Jesus’s experiences, notably His cry of anguish on the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” which mirrors the opening of Psalm 22. In remembering Christ’s suffering, we recognize the depth of His love for humanity and His solidarity with our struggles. He knows our trials because He lived them. Let this understanding bring you comfort, knowing you are intimately known and deeply loved by Him who conquered death for our salvation.

Moreover, this verse reassures us that God hears us and walks with us in our suffering. Just as a pot is mended by the skillful hands of a potter, so too does God restore our brokenness with His boundless love. Our faith is fortified each time we acknowledge our weaknesses and seek God’s strength to guide us. In these moments, we grow in resilience, perseverance, and trust. As you reflect on this verse, consider how your own periods of difficulty have spurred personal growth and spiritual maturity.

It is essential to remind ourselves that while moments of pain and weakness are part of the human experience, they do not define the totality of our life’s narrative. We are invited to rise from the dust of our uncertainties, strengthened by the knowledge that God’s grace sustains us. Our journey, though marked by challenges, is equally abundant in hope, because our hope is anchored in a God who transforms suffering into the promise of new life and renewed strength.

Closing Thought

Let Psalm 22:15 serve as a powerful reminder that in our times of weakness, God’s strength becomes our own. Embrace the assurance of His love and lean into His grace, knowing He walks with you, mends the brokenness, and breathes new life into every dry and weary place.

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 12, 2020 – Psalm 22:15 Read Post »

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 11, 2020 – Leviticus 7:37

/ Daily Bible Affirmation

Leviticus 7:37

Bible Verse

“These are the regulations for the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, the ordination offering and the fellowship offering.” – Leviticus 7:37

Reflection

Leviticus 7:37 might, at first glance, seem like a mundane listing of offerings in the Old Testament, cataloging various sacrificial practices. However, when we delve deeper into the context and significance of these offerings, we uncover a profound narrative of God’s love, grace, and the importance of living a life dedicated to spiritual growth and community.

The offerings mentioned were integral to the religious life of the Israelites, each serving a unique purpose. The burnt offering symbolized atonement and submission to God’s will, a reminder of our need to surrender our desires to live a life that honors God. The grain offering celebrated God’s provision and abundance, encouraging gratitude and generosity. The sin and guilt offerings were about acknowledging our imperfections and seeking restoration and healing through God’s grace. The ordination offering was a dedicatory act signifying commitment to God’s service, and the fellowship offering emphasized community and shared faith.

Through these offerings, we see God’s desire for His people to engage in a relationship characterized by gratitude, repentance, dedication, and community. Today, while the sacrificial system is no longer a part of Christian practice, these themes remain as relevant as ever in manifesting a heart aligned with God’s teachings.

Gratitude becomes a daily act of recognizing the goodness around us, even in challenging times. We can transform our moments of darkness into opportunities of light through simple acts like expressing thanks for small blessings or acknowledging the beauty of creation.

Repentance is not about feeling guilty or shameful, but understanding the depth of God’s love and forgiveness that invites us back into harmonious relationship with Him. When we stumble, we are met not with condemnation but with open arms eager to restore us.

Commitment calls us to serve with our talents, time, and energy, dedicating our lives to works of love and kindness, reflecting Christ’s love in our interactions with others.

Lastly, community is where our spiritual practices find their fullest expression. We are reminded that we are not alone in our journey. Being part of a faith community offers support, accountability, and shared joy, teaching us how to love one another and grow together.

Closing Thought

Let Leviticus 7:37 inspire us to offer our lives fully to God, embracing gratitude, repentance, dedication, and community. Through these offerings of the heart, may we find renewal, hope, and a deeper connection with God and those around us.

Daily Bible Affirmation for September 11, 2020 – Leviticus 7:37 Read Post »

Scroll to Top