Journey of Growth and Holiness

Daily Reading: John 5

Scripture Focus: See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you. (John 5.14)

Devotional Thought: I love the 'chance meeting' we read about in John 5. A man who is severely crippled "happened" to be in the right place at the right time. Then, Jesus just "happened" to pass by! With the presence of Jesus came healing. Later, Jesus found the man and started him on a journey of growth and holiness:

• See. Jesus had healed the man from a desperate situation. With that healing so fresh in his mind, it seemed unlikely that he would ever forget what Jesus had done for him. But, human nature being what it is, the wonder would begin to fade, so Jesus told him, "See." We, too, need to see what Jesus has done for us.

• State. This man heard the statement, "You are well." It was a testimony to his condition, brought about by the healing touch of Jesus. After we are saved, we, too, "are well." We have been brought from death to life, from darkness to life, from despair to hope. Just as that man was no longer an invalid, we are no longer slaves to sin.

• Sin no more. That's why Jesus says to us what he said to that man, and later what he said to the woman taken in adultery (John 8). Our state is no longer one of sinfulness, but is instead, one of righteousness. Christ has given us his righteousness! Now, let us sin no more!

• Something worse. Jesus gave a sober corrective to the man who thought he could go away from the encounter with no moral obligations. If we continue to sin, what remains? Something worse!

After healing our souls, Jesus starts us on our journey of growth and holiness!

Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, that you have healed my soul's disease, delivering me from sin and giving me your righteousness. Help me to live for you in holiness and soul health. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 34.1-7

1 I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. 3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!

4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. 6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.