As a pediatric ICU nurse I often struggle with wondering why sweet kids have such ailments so young, I love this passage and learning that every ailment is an opportunity for God to move in some way ❤️
– Not every ailment is the result of sin, sometimes it’s an opportunity to display God’s work
– We may not always know all the answers but we know how God has changed us
– Being blind is not so much the issue, rather it’s insisting that you see clearly when you’re blind!
the Lord heals. the Lord sees. for Jesus to see the blind man and healed him was amazing! but this man was blind but now he can see. he believed in Christ. love that.
love in gen 24 how abraham’s servant was obedient to his master. he did what abraham asked of him but the best thing was just seeing how everything he prayed for happened and as it happened he stopped to worship God each time. i pray that i do the same thing. that i praise God in everything!
What stood out to me today was that Isaac had just lost his mother, Sarah, and God gave him comfort in his grief. He found comfort in the marriage and company of Rebecca-which was completely orchestrated by God. It reminds me that God puts people in our lives, especially in seasons of sadness, to hold and comfort us. And it is okay to seek comfort from them.
I love the faith the blind man had in John, as well as the servant for Abraham. The blind man did what Jesus said without question, and the servant prayed for success in his search. Their full faith allowed them to remain close to the Lord. ❤️
I played catch up today. My takeaways from yesterday and today.
1. Abraham failed multiple times to trust God with Sarah. “She is my sister.” Even though I screw up the same way multiple times God is faithful to forgive me.
2. Abraham offering Isaac as a sacrifice. Perhaps Abraham learning from his mistakes with Sarah knew that he could trust God to provide for him a way to keep Isaac. This also made me think when I told my mom I was going overseas as a missionary and worried she would say no, but instead said the safest place to be was where God wanted me. I need to remember that when I am worried God is faithful to provide for my needs.
3. John 8:12. Light of the world. On the darkest days we all need light. Am I letting my light shine to bring hope to others or keeping it hidden and to myself.
4. John 9. The blind mans passion is something that I want. To go out and just say look what the Lord has done.
I also think it’s beautiful that Rebecca chose to trust the Lord and to follow the servant back to his home right away the next day without even knowing who he was or who she was going to be with. Isaac fell in love with Rebecca even though he did not know her at the beginning. This shows the steadfast  Love that God has for us and that he wishes for us to experience love. And when you both love the Lord your relationship will be even more glorious
I think Jesus’s words were so beautiful in John. He said that the man who is blind, him and his parents, were not the sinners who caused him to be blind but instead he was going to be used to show God’s glorious works. I think when we go through tough times we seek to blame someone or some thing instead of seeing that maybe what we’re going through can be used to glorify God
I felt like the passage in John can so relate to the world today. So many times when you speak truth people don’t want to hear it. I think so that is why it can be hard to speak the truth when others will cast you out.
The story of Abraham’s servant is a special one. Abraham sent him and said, an angel will go before you. This man has been with Abraham longer than anyone else, but still didn’t really believe what God would do. If it were a typical story, God would have told the servant, “When you get there, you’ll see a young woman drawing water, and she’ll offer to draw some for your camels too. That’s her!” But that’s not what happened. The servant didn’t believe, so he tested God by saying, ok make it go down like this and if it does, I’ll know it’s you. Instead of being irritated by this test, God obliged him. And behold, he came to faith in God! I think that’s the really beautiful part of this whole story, even more than Rebekah’s coming to Isaac.
Wow! What would that be like to be Rebekah? Not ten days to say goodbye to your family, and then leaving to marry a man you had never met. Her display of trust in God was great.
41 Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, ‘We see,’ your guilt remains.
I’ve interpreted this as the more we read the bible and learn about Christ, the more we can identify our past sins and moving forward we shouldn’t make the same mistakes.
My uncle who was a pastor lost his sight later in life due to glaucoma. He always said I’m not blind, I just can’t see. He loved Jesus and knew the truth of who Jesus is. ❤️
John 9:3 explains that the blind man nor his parents sinned, but he was born blind so that God’s works would be revealed to him. This is a huge statement from Jesus! People who don’t believe often ask me why I think bad things happen to good people. Personally I believe this verse answers that question perfectly. Jesus states that this man has never sinned, nor have his parents sinned, making them good people, yet he was born blind, which is considered something bad that happened to him. Jesus goes on to explain that although he is a good person, this happened to him because God’s works needed to be revealed to him. Therefore there was an INTENTIONAL reason and PURPOSE for this individual being born blind. God’s will for this good man was for him to be blind because that will served God’s ultimate purpose, not just for his personal life, but for the life of everyone who witnessed the healing by Jesus of the blind man.
From my P31 bible, a devotional on John 9 written by Denise Hughes:
“God knows we will see more of Him, more of who he is, when life is at its darkest moments. Its the vision of God during those times of darkness that deepens our relationship with him. ❤️
Jesus has people he his blessing cast out of their synagogue. This is huge! Think about your main support structure. The thing or things person or persons that keep you afloat from day to day. Now imagine that a healer comes and heals you. Then, because you are now healer, imagine that your main support structure comes close and asks, but how were you healed? And then imagine, that simply for telling the truth about what happened you are viewed with contempt and you’re kicked out.
Like legit you were just like, some dude came and helped me and now look! I can see! And people were like, umm you’re out. You’re fired. You’re not wanted. You’re done. You cannot continue. You are not welcomed. We cast you out.
There are so many people that simply because they tell their truth but are in a space with a bunch of followers of Moses are cast out and told they are no longer welcomed. But Jesus welcomed him. For He healed him. Are we not also to be like Jesus and welcome those who have been cast out and told they are not welcomed simply because they have been healed? Simply because out God came down and whispered in their ear?
It’s wild to me that pastors feel so entitled to be public ally transphobic in their place of worship. It’s wild because Jesus would never cast them out. Jesus would never make them less then. And yet our wise elders feel the need to be Moses followers when the followers of Jesus know better and know more because we are welcoming, loving, and enduring. Transphobic people are not followers of the New Testament, they prefer the Old Testament scriptures because they want to see a world where the evil are punished, but they fail to realize that they are not following their Savior in all His works.
Defending transphobic people is viewed as demonic, just as defending the life of the adulterous woman was viewed as demonic. I will not apologize for it, even when my main support structure has fallen one to its call.
John 9:25-41 American Standard Version (ASV)
25 He therefore answered, Whether he is a sinner, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. 26 They said therefore unto him, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? 27 He answered them, I told you even now, and ye did not hear; wherefore would ye hear it again? would ye also become his disciples? 28 And they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are disciples of Moses. 29 We know that God hath spoken unto Moses: but as for this man, we know not whence he is. 30 The man answered and said unto them, Why, herein is the marvel, that ye know not whence he is, and yet he opened mine eyes. 31 We know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and do his will, him he heareth. 32 Since the world began it was never heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could do nothing. 34 They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and finding him, he said, Dost thou believe on [a]the Son of God? 36 He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and he it is that speaketh with thee. 38 And he said, Lord, I believe. And he [b]worshipped him. 39 And Jesus said, For judgment came I into this world, that they that see not may see; and that they that see may become blind. 40 Those of the Pharisees who were with him heard these things, and said unto him, Are we also blind? 41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye would have no sin: but now ye say, We see: your sin remaineth.
I think the healing of the blind man is a powerful story! At the very beginning Jesus makes it known that the man nor his parents had sinned. He was blind for works of God. That is so still relevant for students with disabilities now. They are not cursed and there is nothing they did wrong for them to be themselves. Instead we have all been created for God purposes.
25He answered, “Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.”
39Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”
❤️
All chapters today show the works of our good God. He delivers, and shows us mercy and grace if we seek him in humility and admit our weaknesses. Those who think they are wise or “too good” to bow down before Jesus will be judged. It is my hope that these people, just as the blind man” was the mud from there eyes and are able to really see the glory and goodness of God. Great read today ❤️
17So Ephron’s field, which was in Machpelah, which faced Mamre, the field and cave which was in it, and all the trees which were in the field, that were within all the confines of its border, were deeded over to Abraham
❤️all the trees
63Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening; a glimpse of Isaac’s character
12He said, “O Lord, the God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today…Great prayer to remember
1Now Abraham was old, advanced in age; and the Lord had blessed Abraham in every way. As I age, I wish to know what it means to be blessed in every way
3Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
May this be true of my journey with cancer.
My father was a missionary in PNG. He got kidney cancer, and had to return to the US, and now says his drs and nurses are his mission field. He has gotten strength from the book “Don’t Waste Your Cancer.” I know God gives us strength through all the dark times, I pray this for you too.
Everything that occurs in this life from a man’s blindness to the death of a man’s mother is used to glorify the Lord. He is good and indeed the giver of all good things!
Reflecting on Abraham and Sarah, I am actually comforted by the times when her faith faltered and when he wished God would just use what already was (Ishmael) rather than hoping for more (Isaac). Because I feel that deep in my bones – I’m the same way. Yet God chooses us. Yet He is faithful. He gives MORE than we ask or expect, for His glory and our good.
I live with chronic illness and have been tempted to “settle” so many times. For me, living with bearable chronic pain and mostly manageable symptoms is my Ishmael that I’ve sometimes begged God to just use already. And a life not defined by pain and sickness is the Isaac that I’m sometimes hesitant to hope for. Because Ishmael feels like a more realistic answer – Isaac isn’t even here yet! But God. He has better.
And when I’m like Sarah, laughing at and doubting the promises of God, I’m so comforted that His mercy is greater than my inability to see how He could be faithful to His word.
Every person in the Bible except Jesus is deeply flawed; I am so grateful for God using them and us to prove Himself good.
Thank you for sharing your journey! I too am tempted to settle—not with my health , but in other areas of my life, believing I’m actually surrendered. But really I’m afraid to ask boldly and risk the silence that sometimes comes with God’s timing. I am finding the unknowns of waiting to be harder than ever to endure, and the temptation to settle is so real. But I want to lean into the uncertainty of hope, believing that God will surprise, amaze, and perplex me beyond what I can ask or imagine for myself:)
Yes! Also praying. For your health, April, as well as for my daughter who suffers from seizures and multiple medical issues. I can sometimes fool myself that just “accepting what is” is faith, but the father keeps gently reminding me that it is an orphan-like faith, and he wants me to have the faith of a daughter who can ask boldly, and grieve deeply for the things that are not yet as they should be. Blessings over you, sister!!
The Lord’s provision for Abraham’s servant is powerful to me. This person wasn’t powerful or wealthy. But the Lord saw him and answered him directly, providing him a way to accomplish the task his master gave him. The Lord’s faithfulness was clear and the servant worshipped. ❤️
Abraham is amazing!! Even tho all that happened to him he remained faithful and never once doubted the lord. Not to mention his servant did all that did him in the name of god! And Rebekah!!! She just went with this stranger because it was what the lord said! She didn’t doubt how scared must she of been!! This has been so encouraging for me today, I want to have the kind of faith that wows Jesus ❤️
I love how the they believed he was steeped in sin, and he is miraculously healed. Even though Jesus says it wasn’t his sin, we can see the weak and broken of the world see Jesus for the saviour he is but in our comfortable lives it can be see difficult.
I love how the blind man not only comes to see physically but spiritually as well. You can see the progression… I don’t know him, He is a prophet, he must be from God to do this, and finally when he encounters Jesus again: Lord, I believe! And he worshiped him! Here on Earth people would focus on the amazing physical healing but the lifting of this man’s spiritual blindness was even more important. Praising the Lord that he cares for us as whole people!
Ahaha I’m still catching up but I think that the point that you are making is so accurate. I also loved how once he realised his faith, he stood his ground even though no one believed him and I think that we can all take inspiration from that. Because even though we may be the only Christian in the room, that shouldn’t change our faith!
Concerning the story of Abraham, his story of receiving Isaac and then being asked to give him up is very foreshadowing of the coming sacrifice of the Messiah in the New Testament. There are more ties and meaning there than I understand. But what I am understanding is that the one thing Abraham did right was believe God and his faith was accounted to him as righteousness. It resulted in a mighty covenant between him and God. This was a covenant that God honored even when Abraham and his family fell short of producing Godly righteous works and actions once and again. We have all been disturbed as we read how things were mishandled once and again. Yet, in today’s reading we see that God has blessed Abraham and favored him to the point of great wealth and stature. This blessing came through covenant….not through perfect righteous works. Abraham was not worthy….he was chosen and accepted. Such a beautiful picture of the coming Grace, mercy, and acceptance through the covenant of the cross in the New Testament.
I do not believe God inflicts disease or disability just to revive glory. We live in a fallen world and disease and disability are products of that… God uses any situation to reflect his redemptive plan. He is not the one to inflict this on his people. We can bring glory through our suffering… We have an opportunity for blessing others through our pain and suffering, to experience the healing of God and to reflect the kindness of God. I just had some issue reading that God is the cause for suffering so that he is glorified…
I think what Jesus means is that the blind man and his parents are not to blame for the man’s blindness.
Some people believe that it is our behaviour that causes bad things to happen to us. Or that sin directly causes us to get sick…but, sometimes it’s just bad luck. That’s what Jesus is referring to. Though He doesn’t call it bad luck. He says that it is a way for God to be glorified, in that He uses our suffering to glorify his name. Not that God caused the suffering.
I agree. My son has autism, and I do not believe that God caused my son’s brain to be wired differently than what is typical. I also don’t believe that the moments of suffering we’ve experienced as a family come from God. I believe our souls, which come from God, dwell in these earthly bodies that can be faulty. But here’s where God’s glory comes in! The experience of being my son’s mother has made me a better person; a kinder, more loving and empathetic person. It’s also brought me closer to God. My son has also had that effect on other people’s lives; I’ve seen it firsthand, and it’s a beautiful thing. That’s what we mean when we say that God can turn all things to good!
When Jesus talks he uses a lot of metaphors. Some things are literal. But he shows how spiritual things match physical things. So he is not saying that people with physical sight will become blind, but that the Pharisees who think they “see” all things spiritual- they are really blind. Their pride and arrogance make them blind to the Truth of God standing right in front of them. Jesus refers to this spiritual blindness many times throughout his ministry.
I’m not 100% sure but I think when he says blind he is referring to knowing Jesus. Some say they know him and yet when he standing right In frontmiracle they don’t believe
When he is standing right in front of them performing a miracle they don’t believe he is of God when he says he will make them blind I think it refers to humbling them. They are self righteous
John 9:25 stood out to me. My commentary gave a note about the blind man’s interrogation that really clicked with me.
I may not have all the answers or know why, but I know God is working in my life and has saved me. Don’t worry about knowing everything (it’s impossible!) but knowing Christ is enough.
God will use my testimony in ways I can’t even imagine, I just need to be willing to share it and Christ’s love!
I am confused as to what the significance/ meaning of the servant putting his hand under Abrahams thigh has to do with the oath in chapter 24? Does anybody know why that’s what they did or what it represents or the meaning?
Striking one’s thigh in that day could have indicated a sign of remorse and submission. The placing of one’s hand under the thigh of another could have indicated some sort of submission to a person’s strength or authority. In this case, the servant is submitting to Abraham’s authority and this can be indicated by placing his hand under his thigh.
John 9.3 “neither this man nor his parents sinned but he was born blind for the glory of God” I love this, because Jesus came to redeem the outcasts, the downtrodden, the unaccepted. We are infinitely loved by the God of the universe and that does not change no matter what society says about is. Our God is not like Zeus or Athena doling out rewards and punishments, but seeks our good. Even if the greatest good comes from hardship.
3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
So often we question hardships and say, ” Why me”? Maybe it isn’t about us at all. Maybe it’s so that He can be glorified….even through our hard situations.
The story of Rebekah and Isaac is beautiful! Just seeing how GOD worked it ALL out is beautiful! And I love the faith of the blind man how he didn’t care (like his folks or others cared) that he was being banned from the synagogue…he just wanted to proclaim the graceful and merciful healing power found in the love of Christ! And his boldness in speaking to the Pharisees is amazing! Great read!!
Agreed Daphne! I enjoyed reading the story of Isaac and Rebekah as well. God has a plan for us all. It’s all in His timing and His way, but He is always working for our good.
37 we not only need to keep our hearts open but also our eyes and ears. Each day He reveals Himself to us, we just need to keep ourselves open to His works. My prayer is for me to keep my heart and eyes open 24/7 for Him.
31 We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will.
Focusing on this for my prayers, that I may be centering my prayers around God’s will and that my requests would be in accordance to His plan. God blesses those who love Him and do His work.
3 Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be
displayed in him. Trying to remember this when I feel like some situation is unfair, all of my trials are so the works of God might be displayed in me.
I totally agree Savannah. Our trials and tribulations should bring us closer to God as we lean on him for strength and peace of mind. Our battles should always be fought in the spiritual realm with God at the forefront; we are not meant to fight alone, nor do we have to. God loves us and wants to see us prosper! We have to trust and love Him!
The store of Isaac and Rebekah is just so beautiful!!! 66-67 After the servant told Isaac the whole story of the trip, Isaac took Rebekah into the tent of his mother Sarah. He married Rebekah and she became his wife and he loved her. So Isaac found comfort after found comfort after his mother’s death.
The Lord guides our steps for His glory, and in Him, we live an abundant life… I love the love stories of the Bible, i too have been led to the man i now love….
“Who sinned?”… We all want to know because that would give us a sense of blame and control over whether bad things happen to us. Jesus gives a simple answer, the truth of which is not easy to grasp. W-E have no control. And God’s working in our lives and in our world is so complex and intricate, it goes beyond what o-u-r minds can understand. This is the beautiful mystery of faith that trusts so completely in this God that we often do not understand or cannot reason why events occur, but know, without a doubt, that He is loving and working A-L-L things for the good. And one day we will see Him, and know in complete understanding the full measure of how His grace and mercy saved us, especially in those dark days when nothing was clear to us at all.
Please, if you read this passage about the blind man receiving sight from Jesus and you too are suffering from something in your life (disability, death of a loved one, loss of a job, etc) please listen to Levi Lusko’s sermon about suffering that he gave at the 2016 Passion Conference.
The story of the blind man somewhat parallels my life right now. Though I have been through pain, God has used it to show his glory and bring me back to Him!
Your comment made me think of a song I really like. I can’t remember the name of it but it talks about how the beauty and lessons are learned in our time of misery. I was thinking bout it later and realized that when I am broken or feeling discouraged that is when God uses me the most. I am not sure what that says about me, but I realized that I learn the most when I am so upset and so down that God uses those moments to shine His light on the situation and show me why He is insistent on breaking me down until I understand. In the end, it’s ways better than before the misery.
John 9:3 “This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” In me. In you. And sometimes it isn’t like we thought things would turn out. We don’t want to suffer. Our world doesn’t want us to suffer. I can’t make my life all about reversing this suffering in which I sit. Visit us with Grace, O God.
I feel like the passage about the blind man makes me think about our own testimonies. I believe at times we focus so much on what we did “wrong” that caused us to need Christ’s saving. This passage makes me think that ultimately what we should be focusing on is Gods grace and mercy to forgive us. We all were once blind & now see. We must live in the freedom of knowing we can see !
These Genesis passages are so precious to me. They are the basis of the sermon after which I gave my life to Jesus! I am so thankful for all that God has done in and through my life since I heard those verses preached.
The curious thing is that a year later I became unwell, and have struggled with illness since then. The verses from John have also been touchstones for me – that the illness was not for my sin or that of my family, but that the glory of God would be shown.
Praise the Lord, whose goodness for the past 14 years I testify to today! Bless the Lord, oh my soul!
Just as Jesus healed the blind man of his blindness, He came in to this world to heal us of our spiritual blindness. Enabling us to see our desperate need for a Saviour and come to Him. And were it not for His amazing grace we would still be stuck in our blindness.
To me a sign from God was my daughters birth, or a baptism, or the salvation of a sinner. Those are signs God has given us of his Glory. Tangible signs that we may ask are beneath him. The signs he gives are nothing we can get anywhere else. It is by blind faith we follow
Sarah, I don’t know if you’ll see this as I’m finding it almost a half a year later (wow!) but the way it was explained to me is that it is not wrong to ask God for a sign. In fact, we see it many times in the Bible when we are asking about His will and which direction we should go. What IS wrong is asking for a sign to prove to us Gods sovereignty or existence. THAT would be testing God but asking for His word on a situation is not a test, it is a communication. I hope that helps. :)
I easily get stuck on details and timelines, maps etc when reading
I looked up the Hittites and see they were polytheistic so I wonder why they gave land to Abraham for Sarah’s burial?
I also wonder a lot about Abraham. Is it correct that he lived before Jesus (2000 bc) but see in some studies that one of the three that appeared to him is believed to have been Jesus. Did Abraham know of Jesus’ life and coming?
It’s also hard for me to think about the land of Abraham and the Jewish being his people, yet they do not belive that Jesus was the son of God even though the man who Recieved their land had faith in all God said?!
Color me xonfused. I’ve been a Christian my whole life and just now really digging in to the good book so my mind is spinning!
Abraham had the favor of God on his life is the way I see it and God is just so we don’t know why God gave Abraham the Hittites land. This is where we ask the Holy Spirit for revelation and our faith comes in as well. (Is 55) Jesus has always been (Gen 1 & John 1) God the Son (Jesus) appeared several times in the Bible before He was born from a virgin but in other human forms which is called theophany-Question: “What is a theophany? What is a Christophany?”
Answer: A theophany is a manifestation of God in the Bible that is tangible to the human senses. In its most restrictive sense, it is a visible appearance of God in the Old Testament period, often, but not always, in human form. Some of the theophanies are found in these passages:
1. Genesis 12:7-9 – The Lord appeared to Abraham on his arrival in the land God had promised to him and his descendants.
2. Genesis 18:1-33 – One day, Abraham had some visitors: two angels and God Himself. He invited them to come to his home, and he and Sarah entertained them. Many commentators believe this could also be a Christophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ.
3. Genesis 32:22-30 – Jacob wrestled with what appeared to be a man, but was actually God (vv. 28-30). This may also have been a Christophany.
4. Exodus 3:2 – 4:17 – God appeared to Moses in the form of a burning bush, telling him exactly what He wanted him to do.
5. Exodus 24:9-11 – God appeared to Moses with Aaron and his sons and the seventy elders.
6. Deuteronomy 31:14-15 – God appeared to Moses and Joshua in the transfer of leadership to Joshua.
7. Job 38–42 – God answered Job out of the tempest and spoke at great length in answer to Job’s questions.
Frequently, the term “glory of the Lord” reflects a theophany, as in Exodus 24:16-18; the “pillar of cloud” has a similar function in Exodus 33:9. A frequent introduction for theophanies may be seen in the words “the Lord came down,” as in Genesis 11:5; Exodus 34:5; Numbers 11:5; and 12:5.
Some Bible commentators believe that whenever someone received a visit from “the angel of the Lord,” this was in fact the pre-incarnate Christ. These appearances can be seen in Genesis 16:7-14; Genesis 22:11-18; Judges 5:23; 2 Kings 19:35; and other passages. Other commentators believe these were in fact angelophanies, or appearances of angels. While there are no indisputable Christophanies in the Old Testament, every theophany wherein God takes on human form foreshadows the incarnation, where God took the form of a man to live among us as Emmanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
This really spoke to me too. I love the man’s honesty and willingness to admit that he didn’t have all the answers. He did not pretend to have Jesus all figured out; he simply allowed Christ’s work to be seen in his life.
The men who were in such disbelief made the blind man PROVE he had been blind before. Another example of how we have to trust God’s mighty hand in everything. He does such great things that sometimes they may seem unbelievable…but he is ALL POWERFUL!
I love Rebekah’s story. As a young woman who wonders when and how God will provide His best for me, this was like God was placing His hand on me and saying, “look at the incredible stories I write. Don’t worry.” His word is such a source of comfort.
I heard something last week that goes with John 9:3 “….but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”
God doesn’t do things to be mean.
Your circumstances don’t fine where your going, just where you started. ❤️
Does anyone have any insight into why God allowed concubines and or multiple wives in the bible? I know the bible says that marriage is intended to be between one man and one woman and there is much emphasis on that in our time. I did a quick google search and did some reading on the matter but I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around it. Especially the cases where it wasn’t a case of infertility, I don’t understand why the men should have a concubine or more than one wife…
Amber, to answer your question I must assure you that God did not condone concubines and multiple wives. His law of one man-one woman remains true. However, God allows many things to happen, such as the many sins we all commit. The bible is a record of what occurred in that time, not merely a story for reading. As sure as there is sin today, there was sin back then. And as sure as God’s grace rains on us today, He rained His grace on them back then. I hope this helps you in your time of study!
I guess what I wondered was if it was written in scripture anywhere that this practice wasn’t right. God allowed it to happen just as we have the free will to choose sin today. I guess what I’m looking for is a place where this practice is labeled as sinful. I know that there are groups that practice this type of thing even today….
It is hard to relate at times because customs and the times were so different than they are today. Though oftentimes we deal with the same sins that they did back then!
I think you would have a hard time finding proof of God promoting multiple wives or telling men they should have concubines. The one marriage that was all totally up to him (Adam and Eve) only included one wife. :)
A lot of books in the Bible are history books and we can certainly learn lessons from them but just because a person in the story did something doesn’t mean we should do it too, y’know?
God puts up with my shortcomings and the things I think are correct because of my culture and not because of actual truth and he had to work with people just like me back then too.
That makes sense. I guess my wording shouldn’t have been “allowed” Tolerated might be better? I feel like it was just accepted at this time and so many places it’s mentioned. Is there anywhere that God ever rebukes or that it’s written in scripture that it is wrong. I am not questioning just curious:). We are all sinners and no sin is greater than another I’m so thankful for the opportunity to be forgiven for all of my shortcomings! God is pretty clear about most things that he considers sin. I just couldn’t find that in regards to these men having multiple wives and concubines. Thanks for the input ladies!
Amber the closest thing I can think of is that I know God was against adultery…if a person married while their spouse was still alive it was considered cheating by God. (Romans 7 & 1 Corinthians 7) there were certain instance that they were exempt and could divorce.
Amber, I understand what you are asking. My conclusion goes back to the beginning. God created man, and then his helper woman… No concubines were added in the process. :) While we want something listed in “black & white” per say, the fact that God listed his preferred order is enough to see His wish for us. Man himself is corrupt, and since the devil is the “author of confusion”…man makes choices contrary to God’s stated order. Ishmael was born by a concubine. Look at where that lead to today. Father of the Arabs, prophet of Islam… God allows things to happen, and His purpose will prevail, but he can’t change the hardship that man creates on their own.
I love reading along with women all around the world. Hearing everyone’s insight is so neat. I love how God used the blindness of the man to make himself known. I also thought v.9 was interesting..”the neighbors and those who had seen him before..” So many had passed by this man and never stopped. I want eyes to see people like Jesus does when He is passing by.
Does Anyone know the reason to why Abraham had one of his servant to put his hand under his thigh to make the oath? I have seen this a few times in Scripture and unsure to what the significance of the thigh is.
There’s a note in my Bible that says no one really knows for sure but that it shows how highly trusted that person is because of how intimate it would be to put your hand under someone’s thigh.
I love the way we are introduced to Rebekah! What a wonderful woman of The Lord. She was faithful, caring, and loving. Her mother and brother wanted to spend more time with her before she left to be married, but she said, “I will go.” because she knew the things God had planned for her were ahead. Imagine leaving everything you know and everyone you love to fulfill a promise from God!
It was a really sweet story. I always heard it in Sunday School but I don’t think I ever read it for myself. The way he saw her from the field and she saw him and they were married. And how Isaac loved her and was comforted after his mothers death. I can just imagine what a sweet time it was for them, and knowing that God had brought them together.
I love the blessing that Rebekah’s family offers her as she leaves with an obedient heart. Imagine being just a teenage girl, one day having a loving family and the next day leaving with some stranger to marry a man you don’t know. They obviously love her and hate to see her go, but when she chooses to obey the Lord, they pray that she may become thousands of thousands, and that her descendants may possess the gate of those who hate them. How true that blessing has become. So amazing how God honors His promises and protects His people!
Can you imagine how much work it was for this woman to draw enough water to supply multiple camels?? The servant wasn’t just looking for a beautiful, godly woman. He was also looking for a hard working woman. Someone who would do what was required to look after a household. And someone who had compassion and love for strangers. For the people who couldn’t repay her. What a challenge to me. I can’t be too busy to care for the strangers.
I have heard that camels drink A LOT of water and she was watering more than one!! The bible does not say how many. But to think she drew from the well enough water for the camels… That would be a lot for work for a person, especially a woman!! And he didn’t ask her to… She offered!! That is a great servant for sure!!! She didn’t know what the Lord had in store for her at that very moment!! Just a great reminder of Colossians 3:17 ” And Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Whatever we do… We should do it well for we do not know how the Lord wants to use and what opportunities may come to bring the Lord glory!! Especially as a tired mom of little ones… It was a great reminder to not skimp as a servant of Christ to my family and those I pass along the journey.
Hi Katie Hentges, Scripture states the servant took 10 camels…
“Then the servant took ten camels from the camels of his master, and set out with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand; and he arose and went to Mesopotamia, to the city of Nahor.” (Gen 24:10)
I love this observation!!! So true, not only was she compassionate and caring, she was willing to work hard for those in need of help. Such a true representation of what her character was.
This is so mind-boggling to me: 3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” Jesus answered. “This came about so that God’s works might be displayed in him.”
So this man, we don’t know the age, but we know he was considered an adult, suffered his entire life…his ENTIRE LIFE…solely for THIS moment. He was blind from birth for the singular purpose that Jesus would be know through his healing. And I get upset and impatient when God doesn’t answer my prayer in a weeks time?! Puts things in perspective!
I do not believe God inflicts disease or disability just to revive glory. We live in a fallen world and disease and disability are products of that… God uses any situation to reflect his redemptive plan. He is not the one to inflict this on his people. We can bring glory through our suffering… We have an opportunity for blessing others through our pain and suffering, to experience the healing of God and to reflect the kindness of God. I just had some issue reading that God is the cause for suffering so that he is glorified…
3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” This brings so much of life into the right perspective. Takes the focus off myself and back to God and for His glory
This reading today really gave me a challenge for the upcoming week: live in a way so that God’s grace can be seen through me. As I continue to grow in my relationship with Christ I find myself wondering what others think. Do they see a change? If I’m living my life according to His will then it’s impossible to not see change! I am a living breathing testament of his grace! Today was just a great reminder that even I can be used as a testament to God’s love and power.
John 9:3– my suffering comes so that works of God may be displayed in me. God is using me. ME. A sinner, at times an unbeliever. Yet if I have faith I will come out all the more closer to God.
I love how Abrahams servant sought God to find the ONE He would provide. He wasn’t just looking for fulfill Abrahams wishes, but to fulfill them well! And I love how the Lord provided exactly as he asked.
Jesus was so merciful… How amazing it must have been for that man to see for the first time. Crazy to me that the Pharisees wanted only to find fault in Jesus rather than to find out more about him. Who is this guy who can give the blind their sight?
I’m loving the comments along with today’s read! I agree, I think bad things happen, not to punish us. And not for anything we did. But so that God can get praise and glory from it.
Two verses in Gen 24 say “before he had finished praying” Rebekah came out. God was answering the servant’s prayer before he was even done praying it! Reminded me that the God we serve is actively working in our lives and answering prayers that we may not even be praying yet.
I love the servants transparency in this story. He has no shame in speaking of The Lord or his trust in Him. As followers if Christ we too should be open and honest about our faith and trust in God.
3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
Sometimes Bad things happen and we wonder if we sinned to cause it. But this reverse reminds us that God does not condemn us. Circumstances happen for reasons beyond our understanding. Like the story of Job, may we still trust God during these tough times so that we may see his glory
That stiod out to me as well, sometimes we try to find reasons for things beyond our understanding. But God! He always knows why, he always knows best and he will see us through any bad situation.
I agree, I’m reminded that all things work together for good. I am learning to trust that the process might be uncomfortable sometimes but as long as it brings glory to God I know it will work out in my favor.
“Circumstances happen for reasons beyond our understanding.” Yes! I know in my own challenging circumstances I have spent much unnecessary time – possibly even wasted time – trying to fully understand the circumstance. God patiently waits for me. But it is when I surrender my need to understand that I find Him. And I see that no time is wasted because God was after my whole heart all along. Not a quick fix, move on to the next thing. He is so good.
Agree! Sometimes it can be hard to get into the mindset of “my life and all its troubles are to glorify the Lord” but when I do get there I’m reminded that that brings me the most joy as well!!!
I love the connection between vers 22 and 35. The parents didn’t want to speak the truth because they feared to be put out of the synagogue. So I ask myself: am I willing to stand up and speak the truth? Because we really don’t have to be afraid to be put out of society, or to feel left out. Jesus deeply cares about everyone of us, He won’t leave us alone. Jesus comes and asks: do you believe me? And if we answer this with “yes, I believe”, we’ll have more than society could ever give us!
Like you, I am reminded how blessed I am that I don’t fear death for publicly announcing my love of God. There is still a stigma associated with being a “holy roller” or whatever else they say in some circles, but I don’t want to be lukewarm. I know many struggle with this, not long ago I struggled with this myself, but how Mich more has Jesus done for me than any naysayers? Maybe my example would encourage them…
He was worried that the king would kill him and take Sarah as his own. Instead of trusting God to protect him, he told a half truth…Sarah really was his half sister.
I see a lot of customs here that I noted in my notebook to look up to further understand this time. Like, ring in the nose, hand under thigh as you take an oath and covering your face with veil.
I’m absolutely LOVING reading through the Word with this app! It’s awesome! I’ve read through the Bible a few times but this is so wonderful because of the convenience in the app. YAY!!! SRT, thank you ladies.
I think that verse 41 is so powerful:
“41 Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.”
Jesus doesn’t care if we have it all together like the Pharisees. He doesn’t demand perfection from us. He doesn’t even want perfection from us. All He wants is for us to have humble hearts. Our God is a fierce and jealous lover. He wants to be desired. He wants to be needed. When we can humble ourselves to the point of realizing that we are not enough, but He is, that is when God will truly start to move in our lives.
Thank you! I was having some trouble understanding this but you’ve helped to make it more clear! All the fitness he requireth is to feel our need of him!!! That’s a line from one of my favorite hymns!
In Genesis, when the servant had met the wife whom God had chosen, “he praised the Lord, the God of his master Abraham, who had led him on the right path to get the granddaughter of his master’s brother for his son.”
God has got a way of leading us in the right path..for His names sake! Because we know that all of this was Gods plan! Reminds me of that sweet Psalm 23
“He leads me in paths of righteousness, for his names sake!”yes he does! A sweet story of A God who provides. Of a God who is faithful to keep promises and to provide. Of an obedient servant, prayerful and reverent of the God of his master, Abraham.
In the book of John, today’s reading brought me this thought: if Jesus can use spit and some mud to heal a blind man…how much more will he use US?! Think about that!
As a pediatric ICU nurse I often struggle with wondering why sweet kids have such ailments so young, I love this passage and learning that every ailment is an opportunity for God to move in some way ❤️
Praise God always! God is so good! ❤️
– Not every ailment is the result of sin, sometimes it’s an opportunity to display God’s work
– We may not always know all the answers but we know how God has changed us
– Being blind is not so much the issue, rather it’s insisting that you see clearly when you’re blind!
The Pharisees could see but were blind but Jesus healed the blind man, I love this, Praise God
All I know is that I was blind and now I see and it was Jesus who opened my eyes! ❤️
31 We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him. – John 9:31
the Lord heals. the Lord sees. for Jesus to see the blind man and healed him was amazing! but this man was blind but now he can see. he believed in Christ. love that.
love in gen 24 how abraham’s servant was obedient to his master. he did what abraham asked of him but the best thing was just seeing how everything he prayed for happened and as it happened he stopped to worship God each time. i pray that i do the same thing. that i praise God in everything!
yes i love that too!
I love the metaphor of the the man gaining his sight compared to the blindness of the Pharisees.
39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. – John 9:39
.
❤️
give God the glory!
✅
♥️
Keeping up offline in the book itself:)
What stood out to me today was that Isaac had just lost his mother, Sarah, and God gave him comfort in his grief. He found comfort in the marriage and company of Rebecca-which was completely orchestrated by God. It reminds me that God puts people in our lives, especially in seasons of sadness, to hold and comfort us. And it is okay to seek comfort from them.
I love the faith the blind man had in John, as well as the servant for Abraham. The blind man did what Jesus said without question, and the servant prayed for success in his search. Their full faith allowed them to remain close to the Lord. ❤️
I so agree!! ❤️
Woah. I love the healing of the blind man story.
I played catch up today. My takeaways from yesterday and today.
1. Abraham failed multiple times to trust God with Sarah. “She is my sister.” Even though I screw up the same way multiple times God is faithful to forgive me.
2. Abraham offering Isaac as a sacrifice. Perhaps Abraham learning from his mistakes with Sarah knew that he could trust God to provide for him a way to keep Isaac. This also made me think when I told my mom I was going overseas as a missionary and worried she would say no, but instead said the safest place to be was where God wanted me. I need to remember that when I am worried God is faithful to provide for my needs.
3. John 8:12. Light of the world. On the darkest days we all need light. Am I letting my light shine to bring hope to others or keeping it hidden and to myself.
4. John 9. The blind mans passion is something that I want. To go out and just say look what the Lord has done.
I also think it’s beautiful that Rebecca chose to trust the Lord and to follow the servant back to his home right away the next day without even knowing who he was or who she was going to be with. Isaac fell in love with Rebecca even though he did not know her at the beginning. This shows the steadfast  Love that God has for us and that he wishes for us to experience love. And when you both love the Lord your relationship will be even more glorious
I think Jesus’s words were so beautiful in John. He said that the man who is blind, him and his parents, were not the sinners who caused him to be blind but instead he was going to be used to show God’s glorious works. I think when we go through tough times we seek to blame someone or some thing instead of seeing that maybe what we’re going through can be used to glorify God
I felt like the passage in John can so relate to the world today. So many times when you speak truth people don’t want to hear it. I think so that is why it can be hard to speak the truth when others will cast you out.
The story of Abraham’s servant is a special one. Abraham sent him and said, an angel will go before you. This man has been with Abraham longer than anyone else, but still didn’t really believe what God would do. If it were a typical story, God would have told the servant, “When you get there, you’ll see a young woman drawing water, and she’ll offer to draw some for your camels too. That’s her!” But that’s not what happened. The servant didn’t believe, so he tested God by saying, ok make it go down like this and if it does, I’ll know it’s you. Instead of being irritated by this test, God obliged him. And behold, he came to faith in God! I think that’s the really beautiful part of this whole story, even more than Rebekah’s coming to Isaac.
;lind vs seeing?!
Wow! What would that be like to be Rebekah? Not ten days to say goodbye to your family, and then leaving to marry a man you had never met. Her display of trust in God was great.
❤️
Love when Jesus said “ As long as I am in the world I will be the light”.
We need to be the light just as Jesus was.
God will always go before us, like He did with the servant.
Spend time in His word so we can see and not be blind to the things of the spirit
The love between Isaac and Rebecca is sweet
Lord, I believe
Today’s passages definitely show the works of God and the power of prayer.
❤️
41 Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, ‘We see,’ your guilt remains.
I’ve interpreted this as the more we read the bible and learn about Christ, the more we can identify our past sins and moving forward we shouldn’t make the same mistakes.
✔️
My uncle who was a pastor lost his sight later in life due to glaucoma. He always said I’m not blind, I just can’t see. He loved Jesus and knew the truth of who Jesus is. ❤️
❤️
❤️
John 9:3 explains that the blind man nor his parents sinned, but he was born blind so that God’s works would be revealed to him. This is a huge statement from Jesus! People who don’t believe often ask me why I think bad things happen to good people. Personally I believe this verse answers that question perfectly. Jesus states that this man has never sinned, nor have his parents sinned, making them good people, yet he was born blind, which is considered something bad that happened to him. Jesus goes on to explain that although he is a good person, this happened to him because God’s works needed to be revealed to him. Therefore there was an INTENTIONAL reason and PURPOSE for this individual being born blind. God’s will for this good man was for him to be blind because that will served God’s ultimate purpose, not just for his personal life, but for the life of everyone who witnessed the healing by Jesus of the blind man.
Beautifully said!
So good!! Amen!
Amen!
Beautiful!
Well said! Amen!
Amen!!
From my P31 bible, a devotional on John 9 written by Denise Hughes:
“God knows we will see more of Him, more of who he is, when life is at its darkest moments. Its the vision of God during those times of darkness that deepens our relationship with him. ❤️
My eyes are opening, I’m learning.
I was so blind, but now I see ❤️
Day 10
Jesus has people he his blessing cast out of their synagogue. This is huge! Think about your main support structure. The thing or things person or persons that keep you afloat from day to day. Now imagine that a healer comes and heals you. Then, because you are now healer, imagine that your main support structure comes close and asks, but how were you healed? And then imagine, that simply for telling the truth about what happened you are viewed with contempt and you’re kicked out.
Like legit you were just like, some dude came and helped me and now look! I can see! And people were like, umm you’re out. You’re fired. You’re not wanted. You’re done. You cannot continue. You are not welcomed. We cast you out.
There are so many people that simply because they tell their truth but are in a space with a bunch of followers of Moses are cast out and told they are no longer welcomed. But Jesus welcomed him. For He healed him. Are we not also to be like Jesus and welcome those who have been cast out and told they are not welcomed simply because they have been healed? Simply because out God came down and whispered in their ear?
It’s wild to me that pastors feel so entitled to be public ally transphobic in their place of worship. It’s wild because Jesus would never cast them out. Jesus would never make them less then. And yet our wise elders feel the need to be Moses followers when the followers of Jesus know better and know more because we are welcoming, loving, and enduring. Transphobic people are not followers of the New Testament, they prefer the Old Testament scriptures because they want to see a world where the evil are punished, but they fail to realize that they are not following their Savior in all His works.
Defending transphobic people is viewed as demonic, just as defending the life of the adulterous woman was viewed as demonic. I will not apologize for it, even when my main support structure has fallen one to its call.
John 9:25-41 American Standard Version (ASV)
25 He therefore answered, Whether he is a sinner, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. 26 They said therefore unto him, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? 27 He answered them, I told you even now, and ye did not hear; wherefore would ye hear it again? would ye also become his disciples? 28 And they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are disciples of Moses. 29 We know that God hath spoken unto Moses: but as for this man, we know not whence he is. 30 The man answered and said unto them, Why, herein is the marvel, that ye know not whence he is, and yet he opened mine eyes. 31 We know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and do his will, him he heareth. 32 Since the world began it was never heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could do nothing. 34 They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and finding him, he said, Dost thou believe on [a]the Son of God? 36 He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and he it is that speaketh with thee. 38 And he said, Lord, I believe. And he [b]worshipped him. 39 And Jesus said, For judgment came I into this world, that they that see not may see; and that they that see may become blind. 40 Those of the Pharisees who were with him heard these things, and said unto him, Are we also blind? 41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye would have no sin: but now ye say, We see: your sin remaineth.
Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.
I love this, when we have struggles and difficulties it is not to punish us but so that God can work through us.
This is so beautiful!
❤️
♥️
✔️
✅
I think the healing of the blind man is a powerful story! At the very beginning Jesus makes it known that the man nor his parents had sinned. He was blind for works of God. That is so still relevant for students with disabilities now. They are not cursed and there is nothing they did wrong for them to be themselves. Instead we have all been created for God purposes.
39Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”
❤️
25He answered, “Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.”
39Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”
❤️
Lord may we see what you see
The story about finding isaacs wife is interesting What lesson comes from that trust
All chapters today show the works of our good God. He delivers, and shows us mercy and grace if we seek him in humility and admit our weaknesses. Those who think they are wise or “too good” to bow down before Jesus will be judged. It is my hope that these people, just as the blind man” was the mud from there eyes and are able to really see the glory and goodness of God. Great read today ❤️
John 9:25 “I was blind, and now I can see” ❤️
17So Ephron’s field, which was in Machpelah, which faced Mamre, the field and cave which was in it, and all the trees which were in the field, that were within all the confines of its border, were deeded over to Abraham
❤️all the trees
63Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening; a glimpse of Isaac’s character
12He said, “O Lord, the God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today…Great prayer to remember
1Now Abraham was old, advanced in age; and the Lord had blessed Abraham in every way. As I age, I wish to know what it means to be blessed in every way
3Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
May this be true of my journey with cancer.
My father was a missionary in PNG. He got kidney cancer, and had to return to the US, and now says his drs and nurses are his mission field. He has gotten strength from the book “Don’t Waste Your Cancer.” I know God gives us strength through all the dark times, I pray this for you too.
Jesus came so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind. What amazing love to lay down his life for us who are blind
“One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25). My story in one sentence. ❤️
Obedience is all God asks. The human response is not relevant.
John 9:5! -ellie
Everything that occurs in this life from a man’s blindness to the death of a man’s mother is used to glorify the Lord. He is good and indeed the giver of all good things!
I’ve read and reread this verse and I still cannot understand; would you be so kind as to share your understanding of it?
I’ve read and reread this verse and I still cannot understand; would you be so kind as to share
Which verse are you asking about, Maria?
Done!
Let our eyes be opened by faith
✔️10!!
❤️
Day 9&10✔️
Finally caught up ♥️
❤️
Reflecting on Abraham and Sarah, I am actually comforted by the times when her faith faltered and when he wished God would just use what already was (Ishmael) rather than hoping for more (Isaac). Because I feel that deep in my bones – I’m the same way. Yet God chooses us. Yet He is faithful. He gives MORE than we ask or expect, for His glory and our good.
I live with chronic illness and have been tempted to “settle” so many times. For me, living with bearable chronic pain and mostly manageable symptoms is my Ishmael that I’ve sometimes begged God to just use already. And a life not defined by pain and sickness is the Isaac that I’m sometimes hesitant to hope for. Because Ishmael feels like a more realistic answer – Isaac isn’t even here yet! But God. He has better.
And when I’m like Sarah, laughing at and doubting the promises of God, I’m so comforted that His mercy is greater than my inability to see how He could be faithful to His word.
Every person in the Bible except Jesus is deeply flawed; I am so grateful for God using them and us to prove Himself good.
Thank you for sharing your journey! I too am tempted to settle—not with my health , but in other areas of my life, believing I’m actually surrendered. But really I’m afraid to ask boldly and risk the silence that sometimes comes with God’s timing. I am finding the unknowns of waiting to be harder than ever to endure, and the temptation to settle is so real. But I want to lean into the uncertainty of hope, believing that God will surprise, amaze, and perplex me beyond what I can ask or imagine for myself:)
Thank you. I needed this ❤️
Loved the way you used this parallel! Praying for your Issac!
Love this metaphor so much and can totally relate! Thanks for sharing your wise words!!! Praying for your Isaac!
Yes! Also praying. For your health, April, as well as for my daughter who suffers from seizures and multiple medical issues. I can sometimes fool myself that just “accepting what is” is faith, but the father keeps gently reminding me that it is an orphan-like faith, and he wants me to have the faith of a daughter who can ask boldly, and grieve deeply for the things that are not yet as they should be. Blessings over you, sister!!
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
The Lord’s provision for Abraham’s servant is powerful to me. This person wasn’t powerful or wealthy. But the Lord saw him and answered him directly, providing him a way to accomplish the task his master gave him. The Lord’s faithfulness was clear and the servant worshipped. ❤️
❤️
♥️
♥️
❤️
❤️
Abraham is amazing!! Even tho all that happened to him he remained faithful and never once doubted the lord. Not to mention his servant did all that did him in the name of god! And Rebekah!!! She just went with this stranger because it was what the lord said! She didn’t doubt how scared must she of been!! This has been so encouraging for me today, I want to have the kind of faith that wows Jesus ❤️
♥️
❤️
❤️
I love how the they believed he was steeped in sin, and he is miraculously healed. Even though Jesus says it wasn’t his sin, we can see the weak and broken of the world see Jesus for the saviour he is but in our comfortable lives it can be see difficult.
That last verse about seeing and still sinning is so powerful. Something we all struggle with.
Agreed! Such a beautiful reminder.
I love how the blind man not only comes to see physically but spiritually as well. You can see the progression… I don’t know him, He is a prophet, he must be from God to do this, and finally when he encounters Jesus again: Lord, I believe! And he worshiped him! Here on Earth people would focus on the amazing physical healing but the lifting of this man’s spiritual blindness was even more important. Praising the Lord that he cares for us as whole people!
Ahaha I’m still catching up but I think that the point that you are making is so accurate. I also loved how once he realised his faith, he stood his ground even though no one believed him and I think that we can all take inspiration from that. Because even though we may be the only Christian in the room, that shouldn’t change our faith!
Concerning the story of Abraham, his story of receiving Isaac and then being asked to give him up is very foreshadowing of the coming sacrifice of the Messiah in the New Testament. There are more ties and meaning there than I understand. But what I am understanding is that the one thing Abraham did right was believe God and his faith was accounted to him as righteousness. It resulted in a mighty covenant between him and God. This was a covenant that God honored even when Abraham and his family fell short of producing Godly righteous works and actions once and again. We have all been disturbed as we read how things were mishandled once and again. Yet, in today’s reading we see that God has blessed Abraham and favored him to the point of great wealth and stature. This blessing came through covenant….not through perfect righteous works. Abraham was not worthy….he was chosen and accepted. Such a beautiful picture of the coming Grace, mercy, and acceptance through the covenant of the cross in the New Testament.
I do not believe God inflicts disease or disability just to revive glory. We live in a fallen world and disease and disability are products of that… God uses any situation to reflect his redemptive plan. He is not the one to inflict this on his people. We can bring glory through our suffering… We have an opportunity for blessing others through our pain and suffering, to experience the healing of God and to reflect the kindness of God. I just had some issue reading that God is the cause for suffering so that he is glorified…
I think what Jesus means is that the blind man and his parents are not to blame for the man’s blindness.
Some people believe that it is our behaviour that causes bad things to happen to us. Or that sin directly causes us to get sick…but, sometimes it’s just bad luck. That’s what Jesus is referring to. Though He doesn’t call it bad luck. He says that it is a way for God to be glorified, in that He uses our suffering to glorify his name. Not that God caused the suffering.
I agree. My son has autism, and I do not believe that God caused my son’s brain to be wired differently than what is typical. I also don’t believe that the moments of suffering we’ve experienced as a family come from God. I believe our souls, which come from God, dwell in these earthly bodies that can be faulty. But here’s where God’s glory comes in! The experience of being my son’s mother has made me a better person; a kinder, more loving and empathetic person. It’s also brought me closer to God. My son has also had that effect on other people’s lives; I’ve seen it firsthand, and it’s a beautiful thing. That’s what we mean when we say that God can turn all things to good!
Yes, exactly! Such a beautiful way to explain it!
Why would God want to make those who see blind?
When Jesus talks he uses a lot of metaphors. Some things are literal. But he shows how spiritual things match physical things. So he is not saying that people with physical sight will become blind, but that the Pharisees who think they “see” all things spiritual- they are really blind. Their pride and arrogance make them blind to the Truth of God standing right in front of them. Jesus refers to this spiritual blindness many times throughout his ministry.
I’m a little confused about the second half of John 9:39.
I’m not 100% sure but I think when he says blind he is referring to knowing Jesus. Some say they know him and yet when he standing right In frontmiracle they don’t believe
When he is standing right in front of them performing a miracle they don’t believe he is of God when he says he will make them blind I think it refers to humbling them. They are self righteous
John 9:25 stood out to me. My commentary gave a note about the blind man’s interrogation that really clicked with me.
I may not have all the answers or know why, but I know God is working in my life and has saved me. Don’t worry about knowing everything (it’s impossible!) but knowing Christ is enough.
God will use my testimony in ways I can’t even imagine, I just need to be willing to share it and Christ’s love!
❤❤❤
I am confused as to what the significance/ meaning of the servant putting his hand under Abrahams thigh has to do with the oath in chapter 24? Does anybody know why that’s what they did or what it represents or the meaning?
I found this: http://www.gotquestions.org/hand-under-thigh.html
Striking one’s thigh in that day could have indicated a sign of remorse and submission. The placing of one’s hand under the thigh of another could have indicated some sort of submission to a person’s strength or authority. In this case, the servant is submitting to Abraham’s authority and this can be indicated by placing his hand under his thigh.
John 9.3 “neither this man nor his parents sinned but he was born blind for the glory of God” I love this, because Jesus came to redeem the outcasts, the downtrodden, the unaccepted. We are infinitely loved by the God of the universe and that does not change no matter what society says about is. Our God is not like Zeus or Athena doling out rewards and punishments, but seeks our good. Even if the greatest good comes from hardship.
3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
So often we question hardships and say, ” Why me”? Maybe it isn’t about us at all. Maybe it’s so that He can be glorified….even through our hard situations.
Does anyone have any insight to what Rebekah’s brothers’ words meant?
Which words?
The story of Rebekah and Isaac is beautiful! Just seeing how GOD worked it ALL out is beautiful! And I love the faith of the blind man how he didn’t care (like his folks or others cared) that he was being banned from the synagogue…he just wanted to proclaim the graceful and merciful healing power found in the love of Christ! And his boldness in speaking to the Pharisees is amazing! Great read!!
Agreed Daphne! I enjoyed reading the story of Isaac and Rebekah as well. God has a plan for us all. It’s all in His timing and His way, but He is always working for our good.
I agree! It’s amazing how perfectly God works. In both of those moments in time.
37 we not only need to keep our hearts open but also our eyes and ears. Each day He reveals Himself to us, we just need to keep ourselves open to His works. My prayer is for me to keep my heart and eyes open 24/7 for Him.
31 We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will.
Focusing on this for my prayers, that I may be centering my prayers around God’s will and that my requests would be in accordance to His plan. God blesses those who love Him and do His work.
3 Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be
displayed in him. Trying to remember this when I feel like some situation is unfair, all of my trials are so the works of God might be displayed in me.
I totally agree Savannah. Our trials and tribulations should bring us closer to God as we lean on him for strength and peace of mind. Our battles should always be fought in the spiritual realm with God at the forefront; we are not meant to fight alone, nor do we have to. God loves us and wants to see us prosper! We have to trust and love Him!
The store of Isaac and Rebekah is just so beautiful!!! 66-67 After the servant told Isaac the whole story of the trip, Isaac took Rebekah into the tent of his mother Sarah. He married Rebekah and she became his wife and he loved her. So Isaac found comfort after found comfort after his mother’s death.
That was just amazing. I do not have words that could come out of my mouth that could describe the wonders of the Lord and miracles that he preform.
The Lord guides our steps for His glory, and in Him, we live an abundant life… I love the love stories of the Bible, i too have been led to the man i now love….
❤️
What does Jesus mean when he refers to the coming night?
I believe Jesus is referring to the Sabbath or Sunday
A gentle reminder that God seeks us when the world disowns us. How GREAT His love for us!
35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
“Who sinned?”… We all want to know because that would give us a sense of blame and control over whether bad things happen to us. Jesus gives a simple answer, the truth of which is not easy to grasp. W-E have no control. And God’s working in our lives and in our world is so complex and intricate, it goes beyond what o-u-r minds can understand. This is the beautiful mystery of faith that trusts so completely in this God that we often do not understand or cannot reason why events occur, but know, without a doubt, that He is loving and working A-L-L things for the good. And one day we will see Him, and know in complete understanding the full measure of how His grace and mercy saved us, especially in those dark days when nothing was clear to us at all.
Thank you. Beautiful.
http://youtu.be/T3hkGKfCnl4
This is the link for Levi Lusko speaking in suffering
Please, if you read this passage about the blind man receiving sight from Jesus and you too are suffering from something in your life (disability, death of a loved one, loss of a job, etc) please listen to Levi Lusko’s sermon about suffering that he gave at the 2016 Passion Conference.
Thank you so much for that!!!
The story of the blind man somewhat parallels my life right now. Though I have been through pain, God has used it to show his glory and bring me back to Him!
Your comment made me think of a song I really like. I can’t remember the name of it but it talks about how the beauty and lessons are learned in our time of misery. I was thinking bout it later and realized that when I am broken or feeling discouraged that is when God uses me the most. I am not sure what that says about me, but I realized that I learn the most when I am so upset and so down that God uses those moments to shine His light on the situation and show me why He is insistent on breaking me down until I understand. In the end, it’s ways better than before the misery.
John 9:3 “This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” In me. In you. And sometimes it isn’t like we thought things would turn out. We don’t want to suffer. Our world doesn’t want us to suffer. I can’t make my life all about reversing this suffering in which I sit. Visit us with Grace, O God.
I feel like the passage about the blind man makes me think about our own testimonies. I believe at times we focus so much on what we did “wrong” that caused us to need Christ’s saving. This passage makes me think that ultimately what we should be focusing on is Gods grace and mercy to forgive us. We all were once blind & now see. We must live in the freedom of knowing we can see !
These Genesis passages are so precious to me. They are the basis of the sermon after which I gave my life to Jesus! I am so thankful for all that God has done in and through my life since I heard those verses preached.
The curious thing is that a year later I became unwell, and have struggled with illness since then. The verses from John have also been touchstones for me – that the illness was not for my sin or that of my family, but that the glory of God would be shown.
Praise the Lord, whose goodness for the past 14 years I testify to today! Bless the Lord, oh my soul!
Just as Jesus healed the blind man of his blindness, He came in to this world to heal us of our spiritual blindness. Enabling us to see our desperate need for a Saviour and come to Him. And were it not for His amazing grace we would still be stuck in our blindness.
“…though I was blind, now I see.” (John 9:25)
Anybody know or have a guess as to how old Rebekah was when she went to be Isaac’s wife?? I’m thinking pretty young.
Do you think it’s wrong to ask God for a sign? Does it fall into “you shall not put the Lord your God to the test?”
To me a sign from God was my daughters birth, or a baptism, or the salvation of a sinner. Those are signs God has given us of his Glory. Tangible signs that we may ask are beneath him. The signs he gives are nothing we can get anywhere else. It is by blind faith we follow
Sarah, I don’t know if you’ll see this as I’m finding it almost a half a year later (wow!) but the way it was explained to me is that it is not wrong to ask God for a sign. In fact, we see it many times in the Bible when we are asking about His will and which direction we should go. What IS wrong is asking for a sign to prove to us Gods sovereignty or existence. THAT would be testing God but asking for His word on a situation is not a test, it is a communication. I hope that helps. :)
Wonderful way to explain asking for signs!! Thanks :)
I easily get stuck on details and timelines, maps etc when reading
I looked up the Hittites and see they were polytheistic so I wonder why they gave land to Abraham for Sarah’s burial?
I also wonder a lot about Abraham. Is it correct that he lived before Jesus (2000 bc) but see in some studies that one of the three that appeared to him is believed to have been Jesus. Did Abraham know of Jesus’ life and coming?
It’s also hard for me to think about the land of Abraham and the Jewish being his people, yet they do not belive that Jesus was the son of God even though the man who Recieved their land had faith in all God said?!
Color me xonfused. I’ve been a Christian my whole life and just now really digging in to the good book so my mind is spinning!
Alyssa
Abraham had the favor of God on his life is the way I see it and God is just so we don’t know why God gave Abraham the Hittites land. This is where we ask the Holy Spirit for revelation and our faith comes in as well. (Is 55) Jesus has always been (Gen 1 & John 1) God the Son (Jesus) appeared several times in the Bible before He was born from a virgin but in other human forms which is called theophany-Question: “What is a theophany? What is a Christophany?”
Answer: A theophany is a manifestation of God in the Bible that is tangible to the human senses. In its most restrictive sense, it is a visible appearance of God in the Old Testament period, often, but not always, in human form. Some of the theophanies are found in these passages:
1. Genesis 12:7-9 – The Lord appeared to Abraham on his arrival in the land God had promised to him and his descendants.
2. Genesis 18:1-33 – One day, Abraham had some visitors: two angels and God Himself. He invited them to come to his home, and he and Sarah entertained them. Many commentators believe this could also be a Christophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ.
3. Genesis 32:22-30 – Jacob wrestled with what appeared to be a man, but was actually God (vv. 28-30). This may also have been a Christophany.
4. Exodus 3:2 – 4:17 – God appeared to Moses in the form of a burning bush, telling him exactly what He wanted him to do.
5. Exodus 24:9-11 – God appeared to Moses with Aaron and his sons and the seventy elders.
6. Deuteronomy 31:14-15 – God appeared to Moses and Joshua in the transfer of leadership to Joshua.
7. Job 38–42 – God answered Job out of the tempest and spoke at great length in answer to Job’s questions.
Frequently, the term “glory of the Lord” reflects a theophany, as in Exodus 24:16-18; the “pillar of cloud” has a similar function in Exodus 33:9. A frequent introduction for theophanies may be seen in the words “the Lord came down,” as in Genesis 11:5; Exodus 34:5; Numbers 11:5; and 12:5.
Some Bible commentators believe that whenever someone received a visit from “the angel of the Lord,” this was in fact the pre-incarnate Christ. These appearances can be seen in Genesis 16:7-14; Genesis 22:11-18; Judges 5:23; 2 Kings 19:35; and other passages. Other commentators believe these were in fact angelophanies, or appearances of angels. While there are no indisputable Christophanies in the Old Testament, every theophany wherein God takes on human form foreshadows the incarnation, where God took the form of a man to live among us as Emmanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
Read more: http://www.gotquestions.org/theophany-Christophany.html#ixzz3OYJ4x3VR
Thanks for the wondeful examples! I appreciate your insight <3
Loved this verse:
25 He then answered, “Whether He is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.”
This really spoke to me too. I love the man’s honesty and willingness to admit that he didn’t have all the answers. He did not pretend to have Jesus all figured out; he simply allowed Christ’s work to be seen in his life.
Beautifully written
The men who were in such disbelief made the blind man PROVE he had been blind before. Another example of how we have to trust God’s mighty hand in everything. He does such great things that sometimes they may seem unbelievable…but he is ALL POWERFUL!
I love Rebekah’s story. As a young woman who wonders when and how God will provide His best for me, this was like God was placing His hand on me and saying, “look at the incredible stories I write. Don’t worry.” His word is such a source of comfort.
Amen :)
I heard something last week that goes with John 9:3 “….but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”
God doesn’t do things to be mean.
Your circumstances don’t fine where your going, just where you started. ❤️
Yes I loved this too!
Does anyone have any insight into why God allowed concubines and or multiple wives in the bible? I know the bible says that marriage is intended to be between one man and one woman and there is much emphasis on that in our time. I did a quick google search and did some reading on the matter but I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around it. Especially the cases where it wasn’t a case of infertility, I don’t understand why the men should have a concubine or more than one wife…
Amber, to answer your question I must assure you that God did not condone concubines and multiple wives. His law of one man-one woman remains true. However, God allows many things to happen, such as the many sins we all commit. The bible is a record of what occurred in that time, not merely a story for reading. As sure as there is sin today, there was sin back then. And as sure as God’s grace rains on us today, He rained His grace on them back then. I hope this helps you in your time of study!
I guess what I wondered was if it was written in scripture anywhere that this practice wasn’t right. God allowed it to happen just as we have the free will to choose sin today. I guess what I’m looking for is a place where this practice is labeled as sinful. I know that there are groups that practice this type of thing even today….
It is hard to relate at times because customs and the times were so different than they are today. Though oftentimes we deal with the same sins that they did back then!
I think you would have a hard time finding proof of God promoting multiple wives or telling men they should have concubines. The one marriage that was all totally up to him (Adam and Eve) only included one wife. :)
A lot of books in the Bible are history books and we can certainly learn lessons from them but just because a person in the story did something doesn’t mean we should do it too, y’know?
God puts up with my shortcomings and the things I think are correct because of my culture and not because of actual truth and he had to work with people just like me back then too.
That makes sense. I guess my wording shouldn’t have been “allowed” Tolerated might be better? I feel like it was just accepted at this time and so many places it’s mentioned. Is there anywhere that God ever rebukes or that it’s written in scripture that it is wrong. I am not questioning just curious:). We are all sinners and no sin is greater than another I’m so thankful for the opportunity to be forgiven for all of my shortcomings! God is pretty clear about most things that he considers sin. I just couldn’t find that in regards to these men having multiple wives and concubines. Thanks for the input ladies!
Amber the closest thing I can think of is that I know God was against adultery…if a person married while their spouse was still alive it was considered cheating by God. (Romans 7 & 1 Corinthians 7) there were certain instance that they were exempt and could divorce.
Amber, I understand what you are asking. My conclusion goes back to the beginning. God created man, and then his helper woman… No concubines were added in the process. :) While we want something listed in “black & white” per say, the fact that God listed his preferred order is enough to see His wish for us. Man himself is corrupt, and since the devil is the “author of confusion”…man makes choices contrary to God’s stated order. Ishmael was born by a concubine. Look at where that lead to today. Father of the Arabs, prophet of Islam… God allows things to happen, and His purpose will prevail, but he can’t change the hardship that man creates on their own.
I love reading along with women all around the world. Hearing everyone’s insight is so neat. I love how God used the blindness of the man to make himself known. I also thought v.9 was interesting..”the neighbors and those who had seen him before..” So many had passed by this man and never stopped. I want eyes to see people like Jesus does when He is passing by.
I love the snarky healed blind man ☺️
Me too!
Me too! I could just picture him rolling his (newly seeing!) eyes at them.
Does Anyone know the reason to why Abraham had one of his servant to put his hand under his thigh to make the oath? I have seen this a few times in Scripture and unsure to what the significance of the thigh is.
I was just wondering the same!
There’s a note in my Bible that says no one really knows for sure but that it shows how highly trusted that person is because of how intimate it would be to put your hand under someone’s thigh.
Interesting! That makes sense! Thank you Ashley.
God’s merciful grace for the sinner! Yes I too was blind but now I see. May I victoriously shout that message to all who will listen!
I love the way we are introduced to Rebekah! What a wonderful woman of The Lord. She was faithful, caring, and loving. Her mother and brother wanted to spend more time with her before she left to be married, but she said, “I will go.” because she knew the things God had planned for her were ahead. Imagine leaving everything you know and everyone you love to fulfill a promise from God!
It was a really sweet story. I always heard it in Sunday School but I don’t think I ever read it for myself. The way he saw her from the field and she saw him and they were married. And how Isaac loved her and was comforted after his mothers death. I can just imagine what a sweet time it was for them, and knowing that God had brought them together.
Yes, it gave me butterflies!! Jessica, I can relate, never read the story for myself. But wow, how beautiful,
Jesus’ words in verse 39 resonate with me… He has come to heal the blind that cannot see , and those that claim to see will be blind.
(John 9:2-3) When we ask “why?”, the answer is always “so that the power of God may be seen”.
Love that! Sounds like a good saying for a sign!!! :-)
I just might! :)
I love the blessing that Rebekah’s family offers her as she leaves with an obedient heart. Imagine being just a teenage girl, one day having a loving family and the next day leaving with some stranger to marry a man you don’t know. They obviously love her and hate to see her go, but when she chooses to obey the Lord, they pray that she may become thousands of thousands, and that her descendants may possess the gate of those who hate them. How true that blessing has become. So amazing how God honors His promises and protects His people!
Can you imagine how much work it was for this woman to draw enough water to supply multiple camels?? The servant wasn’t just looking for a beautiful, godly woman. He was also looking for a hard working woman. Someone who would do what was required to look after a household. And someone who had compassion and love for strangers. For the people who couldn’t repay her. What a challenge to me. I can’t be too busy to care for the strangers.
great insight!
I have heard that camels drink A LOT of water and she was watering more than one!! The bible does not say how many. But to think she drew from the well enough water for the camels… That would be a lot for work for a person, especially a woman!! And he didn’t ask her to… She offered!! That is a great servant for sure!!! She didn’t know what the Lord had in store for her at that very moment!! Just a great reminder of Colossians 3:17 ” And Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Whatever we do… We should do it well for we do not know how the Lord wants to use and what opportunities may come to bring the Lord glory!! Especially as a tired mom of little ones… It was a great reminder to not skimp as a servant of Christ to my family and those I pass along the journey.
Hi Katie Hentges, Scripture states the servant took 10 camels…
“Then the servant took ten camels from the camels of his master, and set out with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand; and he arose and went to Mesopotamia, to the city of Nahor.” (Gen 24:10)
I love this observation!!! So true, not only was she compassionate and caring, she was willing to work hard for those in need of help. Such a true representation of what her character was.
This is so mind-boggling to me: 3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” Jesus answered. “This came about so that God’s works might be displayed in him.”
So this man, we don’t know the age, but we know he was considered an adult, suffered his entire life…his ENTIRE LIFE…solely for THIS moment. He was blind from birth for the singular purpose that Jesus would be know through his healing. And I get upset and impatient when God doesn’t answer my prayer in a weeks time?! Puts things in perspective!
Wow! Good point!
That is a great point!!! I didn’t really wrap my mind around that so thank you!
I do not believe God inflicts disease or disability just to revive glory. We live in a fallen world and disease and disability are products of that… God uses any situation to reflect his redemptive plan. He is not the one to inflict this on his people. We can bring glory through our suffering… We have an opportunity for blessing others through our pain and suffering, to experience the healing of God and to reflect the kindness of God. I just had some issue reading that God is the cause for suffering so that he is glorified…
3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” This brings so much of life into the right perspective. Takes the focus off myself and back to God and for His glory
amen!
This reading today really gave me a challenge for the upcoming week: live in a way so that God’s grace can be seen through me. As I continue to grow in my relationship with Christ I find myself wondering what others think. Do they see a change? If I’m living my life according to His will then it’s impossible to not see change! I am a living breathing testament of his grace! Today was just a great reminder that even I can be used as a testament to God’s love and power.
John 9:3– my suffering comes so that works of God may be displayed in me. God is using me. ME. A sinner, at times an unbeliever. Yet if I have faith I will come out all the more closer to God.
I love how Abrahams servant sought God to find the ONE He would provide. He wasn’t just looking for fulfill Abrahams wishes, but to fulfill them well! And I love how the Lord provided exactly as he asked.
Jesus was so merciful… How amazing it must have been for that man to see for the first time. Crazy to me that the Pharisees wanted only to find fault in Jesus rather than to find out more about him. Who is this guy who can give the blind their sight?
I’m loving the comments along with today’s read! I agree, I think bad things happen, not to punish us. And not for anything we did. But so that God can get praise and glory from it.
Yes!!! I’m living this right now!
Two verses in Gen 24 say “before he had finished praying” Rebekah came out. God was answering the servant’s prayer before he was even done praying it! Reminded me that the God we serve is actively working in our lives and answering prayers that we may not even be praying yet.
I love that you use the world ACTIVELY. our God is not dead!!
I love the servants transparency in this story. He has no shame in speaking of The Lord or his trust in Him. As followers if Christ we too should be open and honest about our faith and trust in God.
Beautiful comment. I want to before open about my faith.
3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
Sometimes Bad things happen and we wonder if we sinned to cause it. But this reverse reminds us that God does not condemn us. Circumstances happen for reasons beyond our understanding. Like the story of Job, may we still trust God during these tough times so that we may see his glory
That stiod out to me as well, sometimes we try to find reasons for things beyond our understanding. But God! He always knows why, he always knows best and he will see us through any bad situation.
I agree, I’m reminded that all things work together for good. I am learning to trust that the process might be uncomfortable sometimes but as long as it brings glory to God I know it will work out in my favor.
This stood out to me as well. Sometimes things happen that are awful- but God will work them together for good.
“Circumstances happen for reasons beyond our understanding.” Yes! I know in my own challenging circumstances I have spent much unnecessary time – possibly even wasted time – trying to fully understand the circumstance. God patiently waits for me. But it is when I surrender my need to understand that I find Him. And I see that no time is wasted because God was after my whole heart all along. Not a quick fix, move on to the next thing. He is so good.
Agree! Sometimes it can be hard to get into the mindset of “my life and all its troubles are to glorify the Lord” but when I do get there I’m reminded that that brings me the most joy as well!!!
I love the connection between vers 22 and 35. The parents didn’t want to speak the truth because they feared to be put out of the synagogue. So I ask myself: am I willing to stand up and speak the truth? Because we really don’t have to be afraid to be put out of society, or to feel left out. Jesus deeply cares about everyone of us, He won’t leave us alone. Jesus comes and asks: do you believe me? And if we answer this with “yes, I believe”, we’ll have more than society could ever give us!
Love what you wrote! So true!
Like you, I am reminded how blessed I am that I don’t fear death for publicly announcing my love of God. There is still a stigma associated with being a “holy roller” or whatever else they say in some circles, but I don’t want to be lukewarm. I know many struggle with this, not long ago I struggled with this myself, but how Mich more has Jesus done for me than any naysayers? Maybe my example would encourage them…
Such a beautiful point!!
Sara, the article is a little long but it sheds some interesting points. Hope it helps shed some light.
http://helpmewithbiblestudy.org/5system_moses/print/dh11AbrahamHalfTruthWifeSister.pdf
Why does Abraham tell people that Sarah was his sister? Why would they kill him for being her husband?
Yes. She was apparently very beautiful and desirable. He feared for his life because of it.
Back then it was common for those in power to kill for a woman they wanted to take as their own.
He was worried that the king would kill him and take Sarah as his own. Instead of trusting God to protect him, he told a half truth…Sarah really was his half sister.
the placing of a hand under the thigh is a strange custom. Does anyone know the meaning and origin?
For someone to allow his hand to be sat on was a sign of submission
I wrote this down in my notebook to look it up! Thanks Gina & Hermanda for asking
I see a lot of customs here that I noted in my notebook to look up to further understand this time. Like, ring in the nose, hand under thigh as you take an oath and covering your face with veil.
I’m absolutely LOVING reading through the Word with this app! It’s awesome! I’ve read through the Bible a few times but this is so wonderful because of the convenience in the app. YAY!!! SRT, thank you ladies.
@Lakeisha – my study Bible says that it was customary for a woman to cover her face with a veil during the period of betrothal.
I read that the custom is much like an oath we take by placing our hand on the Bible. The thigh was a symbol of posterity.
Love it. I totally agree with you
I think that verse 41 is so powerful:
“41 Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.”
Jesus doesn’t care if we have it all together like the Pharisees. He doesn’t demand perfection from us. He doesn’t even want perfection from us. All He wants is for us to have humble hearts. Our God is a fierce and jealous lover. He wants to be desired. He wants to be needed. When we can humble ourselves to the point of realizing that we are not enough, but He is, that is when God will truly start to move in our lives.
we are so blessed to to be gifted this.
Yes! Absolutely has proven true in my life.
Love this. He wants our hearts.
Gods wants us fully. As we are to become whole in him. Powerful passage for me as well.
Thank you! I was having some trouble understanding this but you’ve helped to make it more clear! All the fitness he requireth is to feel our need of him!!! That’s a line from one of my favorite hymns!
In Genesis, when the servant had met the wife whom God had chosen, “he praised the Lord, the God of his master Abraham, who had led him on the right path to get the granddaughter of his master’s brother for his son.”
God has got a way of leading us in the right path..for His names sake! Because we know that all of this was Gods plan! Reminds me of that sweet Psalm 23
“He leads me in paths of righteousness, for his names sake!”yes he does! A sweet story of A God who provides. Of a God who is faithful to keep promises and to provide. Of an obedient servant, prayerful and reverent of the God of his master, Abraham.
In the book of John, today’s reading brought me this thought: if Jesus can use spit and some mud to heal a blind man…how much more will he use US?! Think about that!
I meant for that to be an individual comment, not a reply! Sorry!