I believe in Jesus with every cell He created in me. I know He’s the only hope for those who are adrift from His love and truth. And yet, when it’s time to share the gospel, sometimes my palms start to sweat.
What if I create more confusion than clarity?
What if I get snagged on questions about the finer points of the gospel message?
What then?
Tucked here in John 9, we find a remarkable story about hope, healing, and the beautiful simplicity of the gospel. At the center of the story is a man born blind. Surely, every time he glanced toward something his eyes could not see, he was reminded of his brokenness and need for a healer.
When we come face to face with our inability to be holy as God is holy or to “fix” ourselves, we realize our need for a savior. We try to go a day without sinning and fail before our feet hit the floor, once again realizing just how broken we are.
Then the God who healed this man’s eyes lifts ours.
After his miraculous healing, the man is pressed by the religious establishment about his encounter with Jesus. He doesn’t debate the points of the law, or drop a truth bomb, leaving the room in stunned silence. He simply tells his story. Pay attention. It sounds like the chorus of one of the Church’s sweetest anthems.
He answered, “Whether or not he’s a sinner, I don’t know. One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I can see!” (John 9:25).
This man didn’t have Jesus all figured out. He couldn’t explain a God willing to break tradition on the Sabbath He created. He couldn’t reconcile the Pharisees’ perception of God with the reality of his encounter with Jesus, but he did know one thing: “I was blind, and now I can see.” He was preaching the gospel.
Whatever else the gospel is, it most certainly is this: “I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.”
The Pharisees simply could not stand against the undeniable testimony of the man who had been healed. So radical was his transformation that his friends and neighbors declared him a changed man.
Friends, the gospel is not a treasure to be hoarded. The call on each of our lives is to shout it from every rooftop, whisper it in every coffee shop, declare it to every fellow sinner (Matthew 28:16–20).
When we simply put the story of God’s grace in our own lives on display, we declare, “I was blind. But because of Jesus, now I see.” This is our anthem of hope, and it’s hard to deny hope. We don’t need all the answers; our explanations won’t always woo others to Jesus. But the aroma of Christ Jesus in us will. It’s His healing presence in our own lives that draws the lost and the blind to the One who brings healing.
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91 thoughts on "Jesus Heals the Blind"
Such a simple truth that I needed to be reminded of!
I was blind but now I see – thank you Jesus!
I loved this reading ive always struggled with just spreading the word because i feel like i dont know enough or dont want to not have an answer but its simple like he said i once was blind but now i see.
I love you Jesus I love you lord!
Really resonated with me!
Such a beautiful reminder – this is what it looks like to share the gospel.
I love the story here. It reminds me so much of the becoming part of my own story and those around me who believe in and love Jesus. I was blind, but now I can see.
Yes, simple yet profound!
Each day share the love of Christ with some random acts of kindness. You never know who needs a smile or to cut in line or help carry groceries. Give God the glory if asked why. You’re life will be further blessed as you witness the happiness you bring to others.
Praying for you Allison! I became a Christian about 8 years ago and it’s still hard to fully accept God’s love for us sometimes. Something that has helped me is reminding myself whether or not we 100% “feel” it all the time, it’s still there. As people, our moods and feelings change all the time, but God never changes.
Jesus is Lord of all. This is such a great study on the book of John. Can’t wait for more! Blessings to all in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Hallelujah, Amen
We walk around our day to bring glory to God. Our faults, situations and issues are all perfect to display God’s loving kindness just as he did for a blind beggar.
God knows what was, what is and what is to come. Every detail of our day is not new to him, only to us. Long before we face a problem, God already has a plan.
We are walking around our day to bring glory to God. Our faults, situations and issues are all made perfect by him. Not only will he shine through them, like healing a blind man, but he already knows about every little detail of what was, what is and what will come to be in our lives. There is nothing we face God doesn’t already have a plan for….what freedom we have in our Savior, what hope and comfort!
I’m praying for you!
Allison Mitchell, welcome! I am SO glad you’re here. You’re in good company❤️ praying for you sister.
I once heard someone say that people love a good, personal story and that’s why a testimony is so valuable in witnessing for Jesus. I love the reminder in today’s scripture that we can keep our stories simple just like the blind man did. No one could refute that Jesus had healed the blind man, just like no one can look at us and refute our personal stories about how Jesus has changed us.
Wishing you all a blessed night! I always love reading your insights. ❤
@Traci Gendron, I have a similar experience. My greatest testimony thus far is the unshakeable peace I had after the sudden death of my husband. It was hard to explain, but it was there for everyone to see. When people asked me, all I could say was “God!” I overthink things sometimes, and I struggle to explain His grace. This devotional and my experience remind me that I don’t have to strive to understand or explain, and it all doesn’t have to “make sense” in the rational human way. The best evidence of God’s love and grace is in His beautiful creation and his work in my life.
@Traci Gendron, I have a similar experience. My greatest testimony thus far is the unshakeable peace I had after the sudden death of my husband. It was hard to explain, but it was there for everyone to see. When people asked me, all I could say was “God!” I overthink things sometimes, and I struggle to explain His grace. This devotional and my experience remind me that I don’t have to strive to understand or explain, and it all doesn’t have to “make sense” in the rational human way. The best evidence of God’s
Allison Mitchell, I would be honoured to pray for you! May the Lord bless your grain of faith and multiply it!
This reminds me of our our faith heals our own blindness. When God opens up our eyes to our sins, we must do everything in our power to put in the work to change ourselves FOR Him. A relationship with God can’t work if we are unwilling to change ourselves. I hope we all can embrace the change to be better for God.
I am literally in awe. Not even 20 minutes ago did I express to the Lord that I want to be better in sharing the faith I so desperately want others to have. I just get so caught up in the exact questions Erin asked. What a comfort it is to just tell my story! Verse 33 of John 9 made my heart flutter–“If this man were not from God, he wouldn’t be able to do anything.” WOW. I am so thankful for Jesus and how He does the heavy work. I am committed to knowing Him and the Word, but ultimately it is Him. It has always been Him. Happy tuesday, SHES! Be safe and take care :)
Did Jesus ONLY heal on the Sabbath?
The declaration of the blind man “I was once blind but now I can see” reminds me of a more general statement from the Chosen Series, “I was one way and now I am another, and the thing that happened in between was HIM” (seen on their sweatshirts/ merch). This truly applies to me. Glory to God who works in us consistently and continually.
Allison Mitchell I’m so happy you are here and touched by your words and the desires they illuminate. I’ve been a Christian practically my whole life (since I was about 9) and I still struggle with feeling worthy of this incredible gift. Praying for you.
The response of the blind man the second time he was questioned, starting with verse 30 says it all in my opinion, “30 “Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32 Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.” Especially verse 33, because the blind man is correct if Jesus wasn’t from God He couldn’t have healed him or any one else. No miracles don’t happening everyday but when they do we need to acknowledge them and where they come from.
I want to thank every one praying for me and Finley and her family. My friend, Angie, is recouping well and is in rehab now.
Sisters be blessed and declare Christ is the Light of your life.
I had the opportunity to share how I was getting through Tanner’s passing. At his service when people would comment on how well I was doing, I told them it was only by God’s grace. I’m not one to share too much on my faith. I felt that this was the perfect time.
I’m a new Christian, and I don’t have everything (or anything much really!) figured out about the Gospel. It’s so simple- God loves us- and that includes me, which is so hard to accept!- enough that He sent Jesus to take our punishment and save us. I worry everyday about if I understand this enough/believe it enough to be saved. I feel like I have to get it all- all the little details, and have some explanation that I can fully comprehend to enjoy God’s gracious gift. But today’s lesson is helping me challenge that. I was blind to my sin and felt empty in my life, and then I found Jesus. I still don’t have the answers, but I can see how broken I am and how in need of a Savior I am. And I see Jesus, the Son of God, who is there for me. It stills feels terrifying to dare to say that He loves me, and that He wants to save me- to fully trust Him without understanding it all. But I suppose it is enough to just have that feeling of knowing in my heart that Jesus is my Savior, my only hope. If anyone would be so gracious as to pray for me, to have true faith and to trust that Jesus actually wants to save me, I would be so grateful. Thank you everyone, and I’m praying that you all feel God’s love for you today.
Emily Dafoe, know I’m still praying for you! I hope we hear from you again soon.
I was reminded this morning of the old hymn “To God Be the Glory!”: ‘To God be the glory great things He hath done, so loved He the world that He gave us His son….Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the people rejoice! O come to the Father through Jesus the Son and give Him the glory great things He hath done!’
Emily Dafoe, know I’m still praying for you! I hope we hear from you again soon.
My prayer is for more courage to put the story of God’s grace in my own life on display so that others may see the one who brings healing to the broken.
So true! I see a counselor and I am finding that just talking through the things helps me so much. I know that there is healing for your husband. I am saying a prayer for you.
That is the very definition of testifying. It’s our own experience. We have so much to be grateful for even in our struggles.
I was curious at first why the Genesis 2:7 and Romans 1:18-20 Scriptures were included in today’s reading. I can’t read the minds of the editors of the book, but maybe…
“All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.” (John 1:3)
“The Lord God formed the man out of the dust from the ground…” (Gen. 2:7)
“After he said these things he spit on the ground, made some mud from the saliva, and spread the mud on his eyes.” (John 9:6)
Perhaps the lesson is that the Creator who made man from the dust of the ground also gave sight from the dust of the ground. In contrast, the religious leaders are those who “by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.” (Rom. 1:18).
So much goodness here praise God! I love the simplicity of the blind man’s testimony as well. I overthink things and have no concrete answer for why God allows suffering for His saints , despite having gone through various trials myself. All I can say is that God healed me and used my darkest moment of losing our first baby last year to show Himself and His love to me. ERB it is so good to see you here! I have thought of you often and pray you are doing well. I am doing well, 31 weeks on Thursday by God’s grace. The enemy tries to steal my peace and joy over this intermittently, but God is showing me how to use the shield of faith to quench those fiery darts. Angie and others thank you for praying for me as well. My mom is also a teacher and I am praying for you all.
27 “I already told you,” he said, “and you didn’t listen. Why do you want to hear it again? You don’t want to become his disciples too, do you? ” – John 9:27 I LOVE his response!! So plainly stated, you don’t want to become his disciples too, do you? Confidence in the Lord, proclamation of faith before the ones who would ostracize you from the synagogue. But that’s it isn’t it? He already was viewed as an outcast, steeped in sin from conception. He legitimately had everything to gain from life with Christ. Ah such a rich account today. I am so thankful for Jesus. I am so thankful for the character of God in contrast to those in religious power. Thank you GOD! || I am praying for you She’s & your requests. Continued prayer and new prayer for you all. Thank you so so much for those who are continuing to pray for us, I have blood work on Thursday I’m praying comes back clear, praying for my hemorrhage to go away and for our sweet baby to continue to grow. It is only by God’s grace and power that our baby is growing. He alone is Creator God! Praise God.
Amen Maura!
My husband’s aunt went blind at the age of 25, shortly after she got married. She developed diabetic retinopathy. It was a devastating diagnosis for her and her husband. They sought out many specialists but none could help her regain her sight. She traveled to the Philippines having heard that a faith healer was there who had remarkable results. She traveled to Italy to sights where earlier miracles were said to have occurred. After several years of seeking a cure and spending thousands of dollars, she and her husband resigned themselves to the diagnosis and what life expectations they would have to relinquish. So this account of the healing of the blind man by Jesus always touches my heart. The blind man doesn’t ask for healing and yet Jesus heals him. I could say how unfair that my husband’s aunt has been a faithful believer and had searched relentlessly and prayed fervently for healing to no avail. This blind man is silent and yet he receives healing. BUT GOD. Vs 3b is crucial. This verse explains the reason for the man’s healing, and for the reason perhaps that my husband’s aunt has not. God displayed His power and identity by healing the blind man. He displays His power and identity in the continued blindness of my husband’s aunt. The faith of this woman and her husband all these years has not wavered. Every challenge they have met head on, trusting God for strength and perseverance. They are two of the most joyful and kind people I have ever met. They never complain. They’ve never had a pity party. God’s work is displayed in the confident way they keep the faith and witness to others. She may not see, yet she shines. Her name… Joy. May we all be as bright a light through our challenges as she has been and is to this day. Her favorite Bible verse? ” I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.” Amen.
I feel like God is opening my eyes to another side of Jesus that I didn’t even realize was there. The way he responds to the constant criticism and negativity he’s getting is so firm. Yes he’s gentle and very patient but he’s also very firm and knows the truth. He doesn’t conform to what they say about him, because he knows what the father says about him .
I need Jesus every second of every day! I love him!
I love the idea that sharing the gospel can be as simple as sharing what He’s done for us! The blind man testified what Jesus had done- he made him see! What a beautiful gift and what a precious testimony. If you will, pray for me and my husband as we talk to my psychiatrist about future treatment options for PTSD. There are pros and cons to the options they are presenting and I’ve found myself stuck in indecision. Reading this story this morning gives me hope and I still believe He performs miracles. I long to be well…I believe, Lord help my unbelief!
So good to see your post ERB. Glad you are okay. ❤️ I have always struggled with sharing my own testimony. I too over complicate and over share. Thanks Erin for pointing out the sweet simplicity of communicating well.
❤️❤️
So many great insights today SHE”s! Thank you for that and thank you for praying for my grandson Brayden! It will for sure be heard by our God.
I love the story of the blind man seeing and testimony. Simple and straight- I was blind but now I see! We are all blind until we see. We pray in earnest that our loved ones will see as well. We can endure everything if we have that hope and faith.
“We don’t need all the answers. Our explanations won’t always woo others to Jesus”. “ but the aroma of Jesus Christ , will“. Please pray for me as I go back to work today.
“But that the works of God might be displayed”… that’s a great perspective/realignment verse when the doubts and fears are louder than the good.
This really spoke to me today. Amen. Happy Tuesday everyone ❤️❤️❤️
We speak of what we have seen and heard…
“It was not that this man sinned or his parents, it was so God may display His works through him.”
@Angie – thank you praying for our fellow teachers! I tested positive for covid over the weekend :(. I’m certain I got it from school, as the rest of my family tested negative and I haven’t gone anywhere else or seen anyone since before New Year’s. Praying that whichever student(s) and their families that also have it are able to heal quickly. Praying for God to strengthen our immunities and help us to stamp down this virus. Praying for schools and staff, as I’m sure there are many others having this same experience.
I’m reading though Job too.
Job 4:7-9
“Remember now, who ever perished being innocent?
Or where were the upright destroyed?
“According to what I have seen, those who plow iniquity
And those who sow trouble harvest it.
“By the breath of God they perish,
And by the blast of His anger they come to an end and am appreciating His OT references.
I’m reading though Job too.
I agree Patricia…. I love it. Believe it. Accept it. Live it. Great words to live by!
@sara Musgroves I am praying for Matt’s healing and your understanding. I too have been struggling with why God saves some but not all. My grandma was dying from covid and God saved her. The doctors said she would not make it and to say goodbye but we prayed and prayed and God gave us a miracle. We are SO thankful. Fast forward a few weeks and my cousins baby was struggling for his life. We prayed and prayed again but God called him home and we have all been trying to understand why. Readings like today help (John 9:3) but it’s still hard and I know on this side I may never understand but I am trying to stay strong in my faith and know God had a reason beyond our understanding.
I love this story. I cling to it for my healing not only physically but spiritually. I struggle with chronic pain and insomnia. I pray daily for my healing but as I cling to Jesus I learn about my dependence on Him. He gives me strength daily to raise my family.
I heard a sermon by Tim Keller called, The Sympathy of Jesus. This talks about how personal Jesus is as he heals a blind and mute man. I thought of this because of today’s reading. Here is a link: https://www.podbean.com/pu/pbblog-ycr8n-c7497
If you listen to how Jesus interacted with Him, it’s so kind and personal. I’m praying that you all fall more in love and awe of Jesus than before! God bless and prayers for you all.
I was blind but now I see! I pray that I can carry the aroma of Christ with me in each encounter I have with patients or people in the community. @Sara Musgrove Lifting up your friend Matt for complete and total healing! I hope everyone has a blessed day <3
I love that Jesus sent him to the pool of “sent” to wash off. And he immediately began to fulfill that mission and tell his story – even though he didn’t have the complete picture. Once Jesus followed up with him, the formerly-blind man fell down in worship. I wonder what the rest of his life looked like. I can’t help but think that he likely spent it telling everyone “I was blind, but now I see, thanks to Jesus!”
Lord, please open my heart to share your truth in others. Thank you for the work you’ve done in me, are continuing to do in me, and will do in me. Please open my mouth to share your praise. Amen.
@Sara Musgrove – I am so sorry to hear about your friend, Matt. I am lifting him up to the Lord right now. This past Saturday I attended a funeral of a very dear and long time friend. He loved the Lord with all his heart and was such a vibrant witness of his faith. He served God wholeheartedly and shared the gospel with everyone he came into contact with. He died of complications due to covid. So many, many people were praying for his recovery and for a Christmas miracle, but God took him home.
He is healed now, no more pain or suffering – but not here, in heaven. There are a million “whys” but not one answer except this – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, an My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9
Praying for Matt and his family, God’s will be done, and peace and comfort in how ever God chooses to answer.
“One thing I know; that though I was blind, now I see!” That was his “story”! Sometimes I complicate my own story by making it long, complicated and involved, when in reality – this man’s story is mine too and is each one of ours if we know Christ as our Lord and Savior. As a friend once said, “someone can deny the scripture – but they can’t deny your testimony of what God has done in your life.” Praise God for opening my eyes to the truth of His word! Father God, please give me the courage and boldness to share my story of Your amazing grace.
Have a blessed Tuesday my SRT sisters! Praying for your requests as I read them!
This is one of my favorite stories in the NT, but today I am wrestling with v. 3. A beloved member of our church family who does so much good for the kingdom appears to be dying of COVID. We have prayed so hard for healing and that God would be glorified through this miracle, yet things keep getting worse. We are not promised healing and I know God can get even more glory through the witness of the faithful praising and trusting God in the worst of circumstances, but why do some get healing and others don’t? Praying both for Matt’s healing as well as my own understanding of how God is at work.
I was blind, but now I see! I’m so grateful for God’s protection over me during my blindness, but most of all I am so thankful that He gave me sight! Praise be to God for His mercy, goodness and grace!
I love that we don’t have to have all the answers. Just walk the talk and have faith…..it’s simple. Believe it, accept it and work out our salvation.
Feeling so encouraged to share the gospel, even though I’m not a biblical expert. Loved today’s reading.
Oh Jesus, thank you for making a way for me..for us! We were blind but now we see! Amen
What stood out to me was how the blind man knew Jesus was special, because he had caused him to see. He couldn’t deny that fact. He really didn’t care what the Pharisees had to say. He didn’t care of the details about the animosity the Pharisees had toward Jesus. He just knew that Jesus had made him see. When Jesus told him that He was the son of God, the man knew this was true. I know my depression and anxiety would be ten times worse if it wasn’t for Jesus. He has given me so many good things. If I ever doubt, I just need to remember that life is full of miracles that only He can provide.
@Helen S I completely agree, I have infertility caused by endometriosis and my brain often falls into “what did I do to deserve this”. I needed a reminder this morning that this is God’s battle and the outcome will glorify Him and show His goodness and mercy. It’s not about me, it’s about Jesus.
Good morning everyone. Have a blessed day!
VICTORIA E, have had you on my heart the past few days… how are you?
❤️
All I can imagine is that this man probably wanted to find Jesus immediately after he washed and returned! He gets derailed and sidetracked by those around him, but when it’s all said and done and he’s thrown from the Pharisees, Jesus finds him again! How sweet and intentional. I Love Jesus and this man SEES his Savior. He reaction is immediate worship. May we all respond this way when we see our Savior, and may we never take a moment in his presence for granted.
Thank you Jesus for opening my eyes so I could see my sin and my need for a savior! Thank you Jesus for loving me enough to be my savior!! Thank you Jesus for giving me my testimony so that I can share the gospel with others and glorify the Father!!!
The contrast between the blind man and his willingness to believe and the Pharisees and their constant questioning is probably a perfect example of my own belief at different points in my life. I can be so quick to believe when things are good. But when things aren’t going my way, I can be quick to doubt. I love how Jesus says the man was blind “so that Gods work may be done through it.” V. 3. Praying for remembrance of this in the moments that don’t seem to be blessed by God.
What Jesus says about spiritual blindness hit home this morning. “If you were blind you wouldn’t be guilty…but you remain guilty because you claim you can see”. Wow!!! How often do I think I know it all, have it all together, etc etc?? This is such a mix drop moment for Jesus today still. I have no clue why there is darkness in the world but the one thing I do know – Jesus is the light who will overcome the darkness!! Praying we all have eyes to see the sin in our own lives so that we may have sight to see Him !!!
Amen! Thank you God for the hope you provide us sinners in Jesus. In Jesus our sin is dead and can no longer keep us from you. What a beautiful thing!
“The aroma of Christ in us” …. Sometimes we don’t have the right words to share about the gospel, but through our behaviors/attitude people see Christ through us.
The Bible knowledge commentary says “ We includes the disciples and by extension all believers” verse five he says “as long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” After his death his disciples would be His lights (John 8:12)
They will bring Christ to others. Matthew 5:14, Ephesians 5:8-14. This is as I read from the Bible knowledge commentary. God bless you and keep you!
The Bible knowledge commentary says “ We includes the disciples and by extension all believers” verse five he says “as long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” After his death his disciples would be His lights (John 8:12)
They will bring Christ to others. Matthew 5:14, Ephesians 5:8-14. This is as I read from the Bible knowledge commentary.
The Bible knowledge commentary says “ We includes the disciples and by extension all believers” verse five he says “as long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
ARINA – How is it going preparing/funding the Tanzania marathon?
BROOKE LUCERO – Can we lose our salvation? I grew up in a home that taught firmly that if you do right, you’ll make it to heaven…if you don’t, you won’t. As I’ve gotten older and drawn closer to Jesus and His Word, I know I could never be “good enough” to earn my salvation. It is all about Jesus’ righteousness, and Him covering me. Sort of like when Jesus told the blind man to go and wash. When he did, he could see – I think when I went to Jesus and asked for healing for my sinful heart, He healed me. The “seeing” part of that healing happens as I obey Him, draw closer to Him, and learn to love and follow Him more. Jesus created us and knows our heart, our desire to glorify Him. I will, and do mess up, but my heart tries not to, and Jesus knows my heart. That is the big thing. Where is our heart? People can “do” all the seemingly right things (much like the Pharisees) but the heart condition is what matters and I believe my heart is safe with Jesus after salvation.
DOROTHY – hoping you are feeling well and over your side effects
BOOKE P. & VICTORIA – Praying for your physical bodies and those precious lives growing inside. What a blessing. (My DIL is due in June – praying for baby Luke, too.)
ERB – Glad to hear from you and understand completely your not commenting for a while. When the Holy Spirit lays it on our heart to just soak in and spend time with Him, we obey.
RACHEL HAUSSLER – praying for your sister to feel the love of God as her Savior and Friend and to open up to Him fully.
SEARCHING – a while ago you said, “the sun (Son) is alwas there, we turn away.” Thank you for that truth shared.
KRISTEN – May God lead you and stretch you, drawing you close as you grow in Him.
Nicole K. – May you have courage and vision moving forward. May the armor of God cover you head to toe and His Spirit guide you.
KO – May you have wisdom regarding taking the job opportunity or not, including the move.
RHONDA J – praying for Brayden. Thanking God for a godly grandmother who shows His love to her 13 year old grandson. May God draw this young man close and show Brayden Himself.
FELLOW TEACHERS – This morning I feel especially compelled to lift you up. Some of your names are running through my heart and mind this morning. LORD God, cover each one this day and guide us according to Your will and Your plan.
I’ve been praying daily for the needs presented.
I know I will have missed some to type out…often I go through and pray right then.
May the God of all peace draw each and everyone of you ladies; His daughters. May His armor cover you. His Spirit guide you. And may the depth of His love pour from you/us, like living water to thirsty souls. Amen.
Just tell your story… love that!
Shine your light on me Lord! Open my eyes to your wonder and help me share your Story with others.!
Glory be to Our God who helps the blind to see. I love that the man who now has sight, stands up to the pharisees who are blatantly blind to who Jesus is starting in verse 30
30 The man answered, “Now that is remarkable! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. 31 We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will. 32 Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” NIV i wonder at the words of Jesus with the disciples before Jesus heals him. The concept that this man was born blind because of the sin of his parents or as the pharisees said he was “steeped” in sin at birth. How freeing it must have been if he overheard Jesus words that his blindness had nothing to do with sin, but that God could be glorified. How healing that would be for this man to hear. May we remember the hard things might be to strengthen us, or that God’s power may be seen, that He may be glorified. Thank You Lord for alk You are doing in the tough things, may our lives bring you glory, may we truly see You. In Jesus name, Amen.
Throughout my life, I’ve seen a mixture of how parents handle and raise their children, especially those living with more obvious challenges – blindness, deafness, physical handicaps, etc. Some are hands on to the point that their child doesn’t get an opportunity to learn just how capable they are and others are completely opposite and the child flounders in trying get traction in our world with limited or no encouragement, and then others that find a good balance that brings success and independence. No matter how he was raised, look at what boldness and courage the healed man had in facing the Pharisees! Erin points out that he was preaching the gospel and he certainly continued to preach in vs 27 and 30. I struggle with in-person boldness and courage when it comes to sharing the gospel itself. I can sneak in a comment about going to church, or mention a Bible study, but an actual discussion of the gospel and salvation … mind blank and tongue tied.
Praying for you, Finley and her family, DOROTHY – healing and recovery. And so great that everyone has been so helpful to you!
K O – praying for wisdom in making the right decision when evaluating the job offer and all that acceptance would involve.
RHONDA J -praying for Brayden and thankful you were able to speak with him.
JULIE ROBERSON – praying for your daughter
Thanks for touching base ERB! ❤❤
Good morning SHEs
Barbara Thompson – good question! There is a footnote on “We” that says some manuscripts have “I” so I agree with PW.
I love the irony in this account! The blind man sees and the seeing religious men are blind with pride. This also shows the blind man’s progression of faith. First he called Jesus a prophet. Then he asked the Pharisees if they wanted to be Jesus’ disciples too (to join him, maybe). When Jesus comes to him again, the man calls Jesus “Lord” and worships Him.
Felt led to say that I am ok. I have been taking a break from the comments but am still praying for each and every one of you. May God meet you where you’re at and May you stay/linger in His presence always. Xoxo
Amen
“Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.”
This verse was instrumental early in my walk. I was suffering from a soccer injury and felt like God was punishing me. But in all this God was at work for his glory.
Barbara, it seems that the KJV and NKJV are the only versions which use “I must.” It probably has to do with which original texts were used as the source of their translation.
barbara thompson
I am curious about John 9.vs 4,the word (we must…) in The study, when the my Bible NKJ study Bible states ( I must…)