NT Fire Starters – Day 139: John 8:48-59

READ: John 8:48-59

THINK: What is God like? It seems like a lot of people would like to know. But can humans really understand what God is like? People through the centuries have struggled with that question? But the fact is, God has not made it difficult to get a good glimpse of what He’s like and even to relate to Him on a personal level. As you may have considered in your study over the last few days, God has revealed himself clearly through the Person of Jesus Christ, His Son. Jesus is God in the flesh, who came to earth in human form to endure our trials, to fulfill God’s plans, and ultimately to provide the way for us to have an eternal relationship with Him. If you want to know what God is like, look to Jesus through God’s Word and prayer, surrender yourself to His purposes and follow Him.

RESPOND: What does Jesus mean when He says that “if anyone keeps my word he will never see death”? (See 10:28 note.) How can you “keep” God’s Word? How does God’s Word provide life? What is the significance of Jesus’ statement that “before Abraham was born, I am”? (See 8:58 note.) What does this statement indicate about the nature and character of Jesus? What other characteristics and attributes does Jesus’ possess as God? In what ways do these traits affect you? How do they provide comfort? How do they inspire faith? How do they help you stay devoted to Jesus?

PRAY: Thank Jesus for His life-giving Word and ask Him to give you insight so you can understand and obey His Word. Praise Him as the all-powerful and eternal Son of God.

ACT: Take some extra time now and throughout the day to worship God for His many matchless character traits. Read the article on The Attributes of God, p. 786, and praise Him for the specific traits mentioned. As you go through the day, notice the evidence of His attributes, such as His power and creativity displayed in creation and His patience when you don’t respond as you should right away. Make this an ongoing practice.