John 12: Love and the Law
Read: John 12, Psalm 12
Who: Who wrote this book? Who did they write it to? What was their reason for writing?
What: What does this passage say about God, me, and my relationship with Him?
46 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 12:46 (NLT)
Jesus came to reveal the heart of God. He was most critical of the religious leaders because they claimed to follow God, but they really served the rules God had given. They changed the rules from guides for a healthy and God honoring life to a burden that took the focus off God and put it on what man could do.
Jesus spent his time on earth revealing the truth of God’s love and grace for us. He didn’t say to stop following the rules. He shined a light on the rules so man could see the heart behind them. He came to show us that God desires obedience in love and relationship. We move from darkness to light when we put our trust in God rather than our ability to follow rules.
Why: Why is this truth important?
Following instructions in the dark is hard. We will bump into things and hurt ourselves and others. However, when we have light, we can see the purpose of the directions and move with freedom.
How: How would my life/character/perspective be different if I truly believed this truth?
Embracing this truth doesn’t mean we stop following the directions God has laid out for us. It means we put our faith in the giver of the guidelines rather than in our capabilities to follow the guidelines.
I can walk in freedom and find joy and peace when I remember that my salvation isn’t based on what I can do.
Prayer:
Thank you God for loving us enough to set up boundaries and guidelines that teach us how to live healthy and secure lives. Help me to live in the grace and freedom you give and to always extend that same grace to others.
Amen