John 7:1-11
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
As you read John 7:1-11, notice any questions that arise in you.
The values of the Kingdom of God stand in stark contrast to those of the world, and nowhere do we see this more than in the way Jesus rejects the shallow glow of fame. When crowds clamor after him he withdraws and makes himself scarce. And he never hesitates to speak hard truths that cause even his disciples to turn away from him.
When his own brothers encourage him to go to Judea and perform for the crowds, it is not surprising that Jesus declines. In time he will be revealed to the world in all his glory, but while he lives on earth, he refuses to take matters into his own hands. Rather he waits and watches for God the Father never losing sight of his mission.
How are you emulating Jesus’ model of watching and waiting for God’s guidance before you act?
What would it look like for you to trust Jesus the way Jesus trusts God the Father?
Does the thought of this make you feel overwhelmed? Hopeful? Something else? Talk to Jesus about anything you are thinking or feeling right now.
Read John 7:1-11 again keeping in mind that the Greek word for “hate” in this passage indicates that a person is making a choice to love one thing and be revolted by another. Also bear in mind that the Greek word used for “evil” carries a complex meaning that includes the pain and misery that results from evil actions.
Our preference for the familiar is often an obstacle to positive change. Jesus calls us to a different way of thinking and acting, and he holds out the promise of life filled with all the meaning and purpose God intended for us – both now and forever. But there is a cost. We have to lay down our destructive ways of living and being in the world.
Get quiet for a moment and just be in the presence of Jesus. Is there an area of your life that needs to change? It could be a habit, an attitude, a pattern of thought, or something else.
Talk to Jesus openly about this area of your life. If you feel resistant to change, admit that to Jesus.
Now get quiet for another moment. What do you sense Jesus is saying to you?
You may believe that there is an action you need to take in response to this time of meditation. If so, write it down and follow through.
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
