“As I look back, I am amazed at the grace that our Lord Jesus gave me to complete the one-year daily devotions. God willing, I will write more in the future. God has given me the burden of writing more and more as the need is much greater than we think.”
-Arputharaj Samuel
Quiet Time Meditation
A daily devotional to walk through the pages of the Bible within a year.
Scripture: Psalm 22: 7 All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, 8 "He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!"
Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Application: If I live a life that conforms to worldliness, people may welcome and accept me. But, when I start to live a committed life for God, I may face suffering, mockery, and rejection from others. However, I can call upon my God for help. Though no one is with me, I can pray to God when I feel that I am abandoned by all, even when I feel like God also deserted me. My weakness hinders me from seeing God's face and his nearness. However, when I pray to God and ask for his help, I can see him again and will be able to see his mighty acts of deliverance.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my God. Thank you for your Love, thank you for the Cross. When I go through difficult times in my life, help me ask "for what" instead of asking you, "Why God." You have a plan and purpose for my life. I will trust in you always. Nothing can separate me from my God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–22
Scripture: Genesis 2: 15-17 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”
Observation: Everything available in the Garden of Eden was “good for food” (v.9). The first man was “free to eat” anything except from one particular tree, i.e., a tree of the knowledge of good and evil. It was not a freedom to sin to gratify his desires. Instead, it was the freedom to obey what God the creator asked of him. When the law of the LORD becomes my delight and meditation, instead of grumbling or murmuring, I can be happy all the time. For the LORD always intends the good, for God is Love.
Application: Before me, God has placed a day or a month or a year. Further, God has given me the free will to do things in my life. However, the purpose of this free will is not to live an uncontrolled and unholy life. I will use this free will to obey God to live a holy life in front of God and the people around me. As apostle Paul says, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial” (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). Therefore, I will not allow the lust of my eyes to prevail over me but will meditate on the word of God. When I do this, as the bible says, I will prosper in my life in every way. (Ps.1)
Prayer: Father, thank you for all the provisions and blessings you have planted on this earth for me. Help me to use them appropriately as you desire. Holy Spirit! Strengthen me to live a life committed to God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–01
Scripture: Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
Observation: Here, we see the most cunning question that caused a severe doubt about God's provision for humanity. We all know of Eve's response and its consequences that affected the whole of humanity. Satan starts his deceiving works by casting doubts in the minds of people who pay attention to his voice. When people begin to speak with the devil, he manipulates them with his lies. Eventually, they become victims of his evil schemes, as Eve did. On the other hand, we see Mary and Joseph, who just believed what the angel of the Lord told them, despite having every reason to doubt it.
Application: When doubts arise in my mind, I should come and speak with the LORD God instead of talking with the devil. As long as I remain in my doubts, Satan tries his every trick to deceive me. Doubting is not a sin. However, my response to those doubts can separate me from God and lead me to sin against God. I can confidently approach God, who loves and cares for me. He patiently listens to my doubts and gives me clarity to come out of my confusion. If I decide to listen to Satan, then doubts produce confusions, confusions create frustrations, and frustrations lead to a separation from God. If I choose to go to God, my relationship with him will be intact. It has become closer than before.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your every provision. Help me to believe your words without any doubt. When doubt comes, without hiding it, help me to stand against evil and come to you without any hesitation. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–02
Scripture: Psalm 3: 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
Observation: David was a known warrior who won many battles. Some may think it is natural for a bold and brave person to express his heart like this. However, the situation indicates that David was in a miserable position. He had to flee from his son, who rebelled against him. 2 Samuel 15:14 says that David had no other option other than escaping from his son Absalom. David experienced such humiliation that some of his own and close aides turned against him. However, David was not worried about his enemies and their darting mocks since he knew about the almighty God who could sustain him in any situation. David lost his kingdom, was separated from his family, and was fleeing. Instead of worrying, David expressed his peace of heart and confidence (v.5,6), for he was sure that God was always with him.
Application: At times, I may face a similar situation as David did. Sometimes, my environment or surroundings may not be pleasing to me, and I may face opposition from all corners. However, they cannot stop me from singing songs and experiencing the peace of GOD that no one can take away from me. Even if I encounter tens of thousands of enemies, I will not fear. People may come and go, but my loving Lord God is always with me. As someone said, "One plus God is equal to majority."
Prayer: Father, thank you for being with me even in my difficult times when I feel lonely. Thank you for your love and protection. Help me to be strong and bold in expressing my confidence in you and to face my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–03
Scripture: Genesis 7: 5 And Noah did all that the Lord commanded him.
Observation: In Noah's time, building an ark and warning people about the destructive flood should have been unusual for the people around him. Although "Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD," he was sincere in completing "ALL" the tasks that the Lord commanded him. In the New Testament, Noah is called "a preacher of righteousness." While he did all these, people may have laughed at him; evidently, none listened to him. However, he was faithful in his obedience to the LORD. His obedience saved his whole family and all creatures that entered the ark.
Application: I want to obey God and his commandments. However, I may prefer to obey him only in selected things or at my convenience instead of obeying him in everything. Over a period of time, I may get discouraged from obeying God, as people around me are least bothered about it. A delay in a promise being fulfilled or what I expected may push me to frustration and stop me from obeying God as the waiting period is seemingly longer than expected. I need to be patient in waiting for God and see the fulfillment of his words.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your refreshing grace for this day. I want to honor you in my life and work, not just in words. I need your strength to do this. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who always reminds and helps us to obey you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–04
Scripture: Psalm 5: 7 But I, by your great Love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. 8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.
Observation: In Psalm 5, David exclaims, LORD, you are the Holy One. But I, a sinner, come to you because of your loving kindness. We can come to God only by his grace. His loving kindness gives us the courage to enter into his presence. Then, trusting God's mercy, David prays for God's guidance to walk in His way.
Application: By God's Grace, I can come to him and enter into his presence wherever I live. As a sinner saved by His grace, I need God's guidance to walk in his righteous way and protection to live a blameless life. As I come to God today, I need to walk with God to enjoy his presence and Love throughout the day and live a holy life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your loving kindness to me. "Lead me" to live my life in your way. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–05
Scripture: Matthew 3: 15 Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.
Observation: In our reading today, we see Jesus' first words in the Gospel of Matthew. Until then, Jesus was an unknown person who lived a normal life. John the Baptist may have heard a few things about Jesus and their family connection through his mother. However, John was not aware of who Jesus really was (John 1:31). On the other hand, despite being fully aware of his identity, Jesus was ready "to fulfill all righteousness." When John baptized Jesus, it was the culmination of John's prophetic ministry. It became the time to declare the long-awaited good news about the arrival of the Messiah. As the Gospel says, the people around them could hear the heavenly affirmation of who Jesus is.
Application: Others may not know about my identity in Christ. However, that should not deter me from fulfilling all righteousness before God. Irrespective of my situation, I should voluntarily go forward to do the right things. Whatever I do, I am doing it for the Lord God, not for the people around me. When I do so, others will have opportunities to see and hear God through my life and actions.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the example you have shown us to walk in your righteous way through the life of Jesus Christ. Strengthen my feet to walk in your path. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–06
Scripture: Genesis 13: 12 Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.
Observation: In Genesis 13, we read Abram's noble character of giving up his rights to his relative Lot to choose instead of proving his superiority over things. Abram was a peace-loving person. He gave priority to staying in the promised land, Canaan. It doesn't mean that Abram was weak. In Chapter 14, we read that he could defeat the four mighty kings and deliver those whom the kings captured (including Lot). Notably, his eyes were on God and his promise, not on the things and wealth of this world. Instead of building an empire or a home for himself, Abraham built altars and called on the name of the LORD. Abram's life led him to live in peace and guided him to receive God's promise, but Lot became a prisoner of his circumstances.
Application: Instead of proving myself and my worth, I need to give preference to God's plan and will. At the same time, I should not neglect or abandon somebody when s/he is in trouble, whoever s/he may be. I must do what I can do. Above all, living in God's promises and staying with God gives more joy than anything else. I will not allow any worldly temptations to prevail over me. Like Jesus, I will appropriately use the Word of God to defeat the enemy.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the example you set before us. Help me to live in your words and walk with you today and always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–07
Scripture: Genesis 16: 6 Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. 7 The angel of the Lord found Hagar near a spring in the desert...13 She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me."
Observation: Lot chose to live in a good green place with plenty of water when he moved away from Abram. Here, without knowing the destination, Hagar ran away from Sarai to escape from Sarai's mistreatment. Instead of analyzing who must be held accountable for this misery in Hagar's life, observing what God did to her will be helpful for us. As the master of Hagar, Abram could have avoided this in Hagar's life. However, God, who cares and sees the people who are in need, found her. The invisible God helped Hagar to see his kindness and gave his word about the unborn son and guidance for Hagar. Without any doubt, we can say that Hagar was comforted and relieved from her sorrowful state since she saw the loving-kindness of the invisible God.
Application: I should avoid paying heed to my inclinations or wrong suggestions. Instead, I need to wait on God for the fulfillment of his promises. Further, I have to remember that I cannot go away from the sight of God. Whoever I may be, God can find me and communicate with me. Like David, I may ask God, "What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" (Ps.8:4). But the living God whom I serve sees me with Love. He is the one who cares for me so that I can cast all my worries upon him (1 Peter 5:7). Whatever state I may be in, wherever I am, they cannot hinder God from seeing me and giving his word for my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for finding me when I thought no one was for me and when I felt lonely. When you see and care for me, nothing else matters to me. Lord, help me to obey you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–08
Scripture: Genesis 17: 1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless…17 Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?"
18:11 Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?"
Observation: Today's reading passage has seeds for many contemplative thoughts. However, two things drew our attention as we read it. Here, God calls Abram to "walk" and to "be blameless." This call is not to live an ordinary life that everyone does but to walk with God faithfully. Walking with God and being blameless are inseparable. God called us to live a blameless life before him in front of the people who live around us.
It is somewhat surprising to see that the same Abraham who believed God's promise without any doubt when God answered his heart's desire for a child (Gen.15:1-6) now laughs in disbelief. Sarah also did the same. They were not speaking out about what they thought about bearing a son in their old age, but for God, they were audible. God did not reprimand them but reminded his promise again. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Application: I am called to live a faithful life, to walk with God, and to lead a blameless life. While I am faithful in external things, I need to be aware of being faithful to God in my own heart and thoughts. God sees them all. His word has the power to do anything impossible. I may be old or too young to walk with God and fulfill the call. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" All I need to do is to believe God’s word and wait for the appointed time for the fulfillment of his promise. "Everything is possible for one who believes" (Mark 9:23).
Prayer: Father God, instead of looking at my circumstances, hearing what others say, and thinking about what is not possible, help me look up and listen to your words to fulfill the call you have placed for me. Thank you for reminding me of the promise you gave me before. God, you are faithful. Lord, give me your strength to be faithful in everything. Amen
✍️: Arputharaj Samue
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–09
Scripture: Genesis 19: 1 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city...9 "Get out of our way," they replied. "This fellow came here as a foreigner, and now he wants to play the judge! We'll treat you worse than them."...14... But his sons-in-law thought he was joking...16 When he (Lot) hesitated....18 But Lot said to them, "No, my lords, please!
Observation: Lot started his journey well. He voluntarily agreed to travel with Abram without knowing the destination when God called Abram to leave his place. However, as Lot increased his possessions, he moved away from Abram to a better place with plenty of water near Sodom. Genesis chapter 19 gives the idea that Lot lived inside the city of Sodom and even gained some prominence. However, it appears that morally he compromised his character, reputation, and position to live among the people of Sodom. He became a laughing stock when he spoke of God's justice on Sodom. He was still hesitant to move away from the city of Sodom. Instead of settling in the place, God ordered him to live safely; again, he asked permission to go to a city that was supposed to be destroyed along with Sodom. Although apostle Peter tells of Lot's distress and torment because of the lawlessness of the men of Sodom, evidently, he continued to live in the city till the dawn of God's judgment. In the end, we see the deplorable condition of his family.
Application: Many good people who had a good beginning in their walk with God later moved away from God for various reasons. Lot's life is an example of understanding how one's desire for earthly things could affect his fate. I need to walk with God every day. I should not turn back to look at what I left behind for God and his kingdom. Further, I will resist anything evil in the sight of God. If I start to adjust to the situation and compromise with ungodly things, I also will be trapped in them someday. When God tells me to run away from certain things or people, my immediate response should be, "Yes, Lord."
Prayer: Father, thank you for your call to walk with you and to be blameless before you. Help me to walk with you every moment of my life. Thank you for the cross and your grace that enable me to do so. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides me. Amen.
I have decided to follow Jesus
No turning back, No turning back
The world behind me, the cross before me
No turning back, No turning back
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–10
Scripture: Matthew 6: 1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
Observation: Jesus draws our attention to the three most common things associated with one's religious life: almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. He clearly warns us not to do these "acts of righteousness" as hypocrites do. Instead of showing off to others for self-glorification, Jesus wants us to seek the reward from heaven when we practice almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. Here, he is not saying "if you do," but he says "when you" give, pray, and fasting (v.3,5,16). Jesus supposes that we would do these things in our private and public life as a follower of Christ. So, he gives us his direction on how to do it.
Application: Am I trying to win the hearts of people who see me, or am I living and doing things for God? My life here is an opportunity to glorify God. When Jesus vehemently opposes and warns against any hypocrisy, I should be diligent in exercising and practicing "the acts of righteousness" he mentions here. He says to me, "This is how you should..." so I will do them precisely as he guides.
Prayer: Father God, who sees my heart, thank you for the instruction to practice "the acts of righteousness." May your Holy Spirit enable me to follow and remind me of Jesus' words. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel 📕: Quiet Time Companion 🗓️ Day–11
Scripture: Matthew 6:25 Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?...31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Observation: Generally, there is no house without a door, no human without worries. Worry is a global disease that causes many sleepless nights to many. Here in Matthew 6, Jesus describes some of the main reasons for human anxiety and worry. He invites his listeners to a worry-free life in which God takes care of every need. God knows our every need, whether great or small. Not only that, he knows how to meet our needs as well. Those who trust God can see God's provision and protection in unusual ways unknown to humanity. See how God helped Abraham and answered his servant's prayer to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24). Instead of worrying about our needs, Jesus calls us to "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness." We can trust and believe the Word of God, for they are "flawless," and they are perfect that stand against any tests (Psalm 12).
Application: When I see a bird or a flower, I can remember Jesus' words about how God takes care of them and dresses them. When I see nature and God's creation, they are pleasant to my eyes to watch, and they remind me how much more worthy I am than these beautiful things. God knows my every need. So I will not fear and worry about anything. To live this worry-free life where God meets my every need, I will "seek first his kingdom and righteousness."
Prayer: Father, thank you for the word today. You know my needs. I can experience your providence and protection when I trust and follow your word. Help me "to keep the main thing the main thing." Give me your strength to live as a citizen of your kingdom and practice your righteousness. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–12
Scripture: Psalm 13:1 How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart?
Observation: David expresses his anguish over waiting for an extended period and despair of not seeing God in his tough time. Because of this, he goes through an inner battle that causes sorrow in his heart. As we wait to receive something for a period more than we expected, it could make our hearts weak. We may feel that God has neglected us. As we wait, if we constantly look at our problems, we may not see how to come out of them. However, that is not the endpoint. It could be a starting point to have a fresh look at God, remembering his acts of faithfulness in the past. That is what exactly David does here. Although he goes through various unknown issues, he expresses his confidence in God (13:5). When we begin to trust God, we are relieved from our worries and begin to experience joy and sing songs.
Application: I, too, tend to become weary when I wait for certain things. However, instead of allowing my heart to have an inner battle, I need to remember how God helped and rescued me in the past. As I recall his acts of faithfulness and fulfillment of his promises, my attention would turn to God to trust him. Then confidently, I can use such tough times to "wait on God." When I wait on God, I get renewed strength; I will not become weary. So, I praise God for everything, for HE is my everything!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unfailing Love for me. I will trust in you, for you are my hiding place. You never fail me. So, I will sing a song of praise. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–13
Scripture: Genesis 27:20 Isaac asked his son, "How did you find it so quickly, my son?” "The Lord your God gave me success," he replied.
Observation: Rebekah knew about God's favor and planned for the younger son (Gen.25:23); possibly Isaac was also aware of it. However, Isaac wants to share his final blessing with his elder son and asks Esau to bring his desired food. On the other hand, Rebekah prepares Jacob to deceive his father to get the same blessing. Earlier, Jacob deceitfully won the birthright from Esau by sharing some bread and stew, for Esau was careless about his birthright (25:29-34). We see the weakness of the entire family. Rebekah and Jacob were quick to find a way to deceive Isaac. Although they succeeded in their plan, it produced bitterness, fears, tears, and sorrows.
Notice Jacob's word; there is no personal connection between God and Jacob. So he says, "The Lord your God." Later, the same Rebekah who told Jacob, "Do what I say," to deceive Isaac, prepares him for the real blessing of the Lord by saying the exact words (27:8, 13, 43). Interestingly, Jacob obeyed his father and mother (for the first time?) and set out on his journey as they both instructed him. Esau also saw this obedience. More than that, God encountered Jacob during this journey of obedience and shared his words of promise. That is where Jacob's relationship with God started to become a personal one (28:12-22).
Application: How many times have I impatiently tried to get God's blessing in my way! Although I am sure of God's blessings and plan, there are times I failed to see God's timing and his way in my life. Instead of obeying God and waiting for HIS time, I may use deceitful ways by thinking it is for a good cause. As the bible says, God never lies (1 Sam.15:29). Although his promises and blessings are real and sure, I can receive them only through the journey of obedience and walking with him all through my life. There is no shortcut to receiving God's blessings.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your words and your blessings. Forgive me if I used any cunning ways in my life. Help me to walk with you in obedience and love. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–14
Scripture: Matthew 8: 1 When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. 2 A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." 3 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.
Observation: Ancient people were so afraid of skin diseases such as leprosy. According to Leviticus 13: 45-46, a person with leprosy is "unclean." S/he cannot live with a community; the person "must live alone." They were not allowed to come and meet even their family members. So their life was in such a miserable and unhygienic condition. Even a person who touched a leper was also considered "unclean." Therefore, this leper's move and his request for healing must have been unusual for the people around him. Jesus could have made him clean just by saying, "Be clean." But, he "reached out his hand and touched the man." It is not surprising that the healing took place immediately, but the touch of the Master. As Spurgeon observes, like leprosy separated a person from his/her community, sin separated us from God and made us unclean. Jesus is willing to touch anyone who wants to "be clean." Do we?
Application: People may ostracize me and hate to come near me, but Jesus never does it. I must realize that sin separates me from God, and Jesus alone can purify me. Instead of hiding myself in darkness and isolation, I should be ready to come to Jesus, for he is willing to clean my life and make me whole. I can experience the touch of the Master when I come to Jesus and ask him to make me clean. I can be confident in the truth that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" and "He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are willing to heal me. Thank you for the cross; thank you for your Love. Help me today to experience your touch of Love in my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–15
Scripture: Matthew 8: 24 Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
Observation: As I read this verse, I wonder how a person could sleep during a heavy storm. Jesus and his disciples were on a boat, not in a comfortable place to sleep well. When the waves toss up a boat, it would not be easy even to stand straight. "But Jesus was sleeping." His disciples were so afraid that they would drown in the water. So, they sought the help of Jesus. I see Jesus' response in this way: When I am on the boat, Jesus said to his disciples, "why are you so afraid?" They "were amazed" when the waves and the winds obeyed Jesus' rebuke. For some people, it is tough to accept miracles. However, as this bible passage says, Jesus has control over "even the winds and the waves." Jesus is the LORD over all of God's creation and creatures. At times, we may face sudden or unexpected events in our life. As long as Jesus is with us, we need not fear anything.
Application: When I face an unexpected storm in my life, what do I do? There are times I worry about my life and future. Restlessly, I try different things to save myself from the storm. The moment I realize my inability to control my situation and ask Jesus to keep me safe, I can experience the peace of God in my heart. Jesus is with me always. He is the LORD.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for this beautiful reminder that you are with me and all things are under your control. You are the Lord of my life. Help me today to experience your peace and to exalt your name. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–16
Scripture: Matthew 9:12 On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Observation: Today, we read about the immediate obedience of Matthew to Jesus' call to follow him. Without any second thought, he left his work and followed Jesus. In those days, tax collectors had a bad reputation among the Jews. The Jewish community hated them for various reasons. Therefore, when the Pharisees saw Jesus with the tax collectors, they questioned his disciples. But Jesus calls their attention to a new dimension to look at the needy ones. He asks his listeners to learn the words of prophet Hosea (Hos.6:6). God desires mercy more than our sacrifice. Here, the word "mercy" implies our proper conduct with our neighbors and our faithfulness to God. Jesus' call is open to all. Those who consider themselves righteous may not realize their need for God's mercy and salvation. But those who recognize that they are sinners will understand their spiritual needs. We have the responsibility to share God's medicine for the human soul with the needy ones.
Application: When I follow Jesus, am I looking at the pros and cons of my decision or simply following him day by day? While I accept his invitation to follow him, I need to realize that many people around me need Jesus in their lives. Therefore, I must be willing to go to them and share God's mercy. I will not allow any popular opinions, prejudices, and biases of other people to hinder my decision to follow Jesus and share God's Love for the needy.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your Love that saved me. I know that I am a sinner saved by your grace. Help me to understand the spiritual needs of others and to do my part wholeheartedly for those needs. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–17
Scripture: Genesis 35: 2 So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone."
Observation: The same God who promised Jacob, "I am with you" when he fled to Laban (Gen.28:12-15) later told him to "go back" to his father's land (Gen.31:3). Now he asks Jacob to go to Bethel, where Jacob had his first encounter with God. Earlier, Jacob called that place Bethel. As Jacob put it, Bethel means the House of God (Gen.28:17-19). Earlier, he met God in that place when he started his journey of obedience to his parents. Jacob returns to Bethel in obedience to God, where he first began his relationship with God. He testifies to God's faithfulness in his life. Although God did not ask him to remove anything, he voluntarily called his family for cleansing before they came to the house of God. Jacob removed everything that God disliked from his life and family. And then he buried those things.
Application: My God is faithful in his promises and always answers my prayers. He wants me to come to him without any delay. However, when I come to the house of God, I need to remove anything that displeases my God. Whatever it may be, whether precious or useless, I need to have a clear conscience and be ready to remove them from my life to purify me. As Jesus says, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). "The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your faithfulness in fulfilling your promises and answering my prayers. Help me to have a pure heart when I come and stand before you. Thank you for the sacrifice you made on the cross. Forgive my sins and purify my heart. Help me to live a blameless life before you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–18
Scripture: Psalm 19: 1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands... 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.....11 By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can discern their own errors?
Observation: Psalm 19 is an insightful song that reminds us of God's two great books. The one we are all familiar with is the Bible. The other one is, as the psalmist says, nature. In other words, one is the book of God's words, and the other one is the book of God's works. While God's works remind all people about the glory of God and reveal knowledge, the Word of God refreshes the soul, makes people wise, and gives "joy to a heart" and "light to the eyes." Moreover, it guides and warns a believer to live a blameless life before God.
Application: As I read Psalm 19, I understand the nature and the benefits of the Word of God. When I read the bible, I can enjoy all the benefits that are listed in this Psalm. However, without a personal application of God's word and realization of my "hidden faults" and "willful sins," I cannot experience the blessings of the Word of God. God can help me when I pray for forgiveness and his protection.
Prayer: "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer." Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–19
Scripture: Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. 8 They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.
Observation: Psalm 20 gives us a picture of a godly person: He stands in front of a powerful enemy and a liturgical prayer for his success. In those days, people considered war chariots and horses as symbols of an army's might. Here, we see that those chariots and horses were marching from the enemy's side. The battle scene we see here is that they (the enemies) are in chariots and horses, but we (who trust God) are in the name of our God. A collapse of a mighty army in front of a weak one that had no equal strength is unthinkable. However, the strong side is defeated. In today's world, money, job, education, family background, social status, and such things are considered as factors for success. However, when we are IN GOD, we can "rise up and stand firm" even when we have no power and strength compared to others who have them all.
Application: I may not have all the required resources for a successful life. Still, I can be confident when I am in God, no matter what I face in my life. When God is with me, and I am with God, he enables me to rise up and strengthens me to stand firm. God is the secret of my success in life. Therefore, I always put my trust in God, for he never fails.
Prayer: Father God, who answers our prayers, help me to put my trust in you and to live with you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–20
Scripture: Matthew 11:2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"... 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.
Observation: When John the Baptist was in prison, he may have wondered why he should spend his time in prison when Jesus, the promised Messiah, was out there. Since he announced the arrival of the Messiah, he may have had expectations of a royal rule from the Messiah that he would save God's people from the rule of the ungodly, like other Jews. So, when he heard about the deeds of Jesus, he may have wanted to clarify his doubts regarding Jesus and whether he was indeed the Messiah. In his response to John the Baptist, Jesus gently reminded him of the true mission of the Messiah as prophesied by the prophets and asked John's disciples to report to him what they witnessed in Jesus' life and ministry for the Kingdom of God. Instead of saying anything against John the Baptist, Jesus went on to give his testimony about him. Because Jesus knew who John was, although he was in prison.
Application: When I face injustice and go through a tough time surrounded by things contrary to my expectations, and I ask, "Why Lord?" doubts may come to my mind and raise questions about my faith and hope in God. However, when I experience doubts, I should know whom to ask my doubting questions. Approaching Jesus is the best way to deal with my doubts. When I come to Jesus, he helps me to deal with my doubts and increases my faith in him. Because he knows me fully, he knows how to help me as well.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for helping me to deal with my doubts. Whenever I feel depressed and a failure in my life, you help me look at you and your work instead of looking at my situation and my deplorable state. Thank you for your Love and care in dealing with my doubts. Help me to increase my faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–21
Scripture: Psalm 22: 7 All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, 8 "He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!"
Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Application: If I live a life that conforms to worldliness, people may welcome and accept me. But, when I start to live a committed life for God, I may face suffering, mockery, and rejection from others. However, I can call upon my God for help. Though no one is with me, I can pray to God when I feel that I am abandoned by all, even when I feel like God also deserted me. My weakness hinders me from seeing God's face and his nearness. However, when I pray to God and ask for his help, I can see him again and will be able to see his mighty acts of deliverance.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my God. Thank you for your Love, thank you for the Cross. When I go through difficult times in my life, help me ask "for what" instead of asking you, "Why God." You have a plan and purpose for my life. I will trust in you always. Nothing can separate me from my God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–22
Scripture: Psalm 22: 7 All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, 8 "He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!"
Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Application: If I live a life that conforms to worldliness, people may welcome and accept me. But, when I start to live a committed life for God, I may face suffering, mockery, and rejection from others. However, I can call upon my God for help. Though no one is with me, I can pray to God when I feel that I am abandoned by all, even when I feel like God also deserted me. My weakness hinders me from seeing God's face and his nearness. However, when I pray to God and ask for his help, I can see him again and will be able to see his mighty acts of deliverance.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my God. Thank you for your Love, thank you for the Cross. When I go through difficult times in my life, help me ask "for what" instead of asking you, "Why God." You have a plan and purpose for my life. I will trust in you always. Nothing can separate me from my God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–22
Scripture: Genesis 2: 15-17 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”
Observation: Everything available in the Garden of Eden was “good for food” (v.9). The first man was “free to eat” anything except from one particular tree, i.e., a tree of the knowledge of good and evil. It was not a freedom to sin to gratify his desires. Instead, it was the freedom to obey what God the creator asked of him. When the law of the LORD becomes my delight and meditation, instead of grumbling or murmuring, I can be happy all the time. For the LORD always intends the good, for God is Love.
Application: Before me, God has placed a day or a month or a year. Further, God has given me the free will to do things in my life. However, the purpose of this free will is not to live an uncontrolled and unholy life. I will use this free will to obey God to live a holy life in front of God and the people around me. As apostle Paul says, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial” (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). Therefore, I will not allow the lust of my eyes to prevail over me but will meditate on the word of God. When I do this, as the bible says, I will prosper in my life in every way. (Ps.1)
Prayer: Father, thank you for all the provisions and blessings you have planted on this earth for me. Help me to use them appropriately as you desire. Holy Spirit! Strengthen me to live a life committed to God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–01
Scripture: Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
Observation: Here, we see the most cunning question that caused a severe doubt about God's provision for humanity. We all know of Eve's response and its consequences that affected the whole of humanity. Satan starts his deceiving works by casting doubts in the minds of people who pay attention to his voice. When people begin to speak with the devil, he manipulates them with his lies. Eventually, they become victims of his evil schemes, as Eve did. On the other hand, we see Mary and Joseph, who just believed what the angel of the Lord told them, despite having every reason to doubt it.
Application: When doubts arise in my mind, I should come and speak with the LORD God instead of talking with the devil. As long as I remain in my doubts, Satan tries his every trick to deceive me. Doubting is not a sin. However, my response to those doubts can separate me from God and lead me to sin against God. I can confidently approach God, who loves and cares for me. He patiently listens to my doubts and gives me clarity to come out of my confusion. If I decide to listen to Satan, then doubts produce confusions, confusions create frustrations, and frustrations lead to a separation from God. If I choose to go to God, my relationship with him will be intact. It has become closer than before.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your every provision. Help me to believe your words without any doubt. When doubt comes, without hiding it, help me to stand against evil and come to you without any hesitation. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–02
Scripture: Psalm 3: 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
Observation: David was a known warrior who won many battles. Some may think it is natural for a bold and brave person to express his heart like this. However, the situation indicates that David was in a miserable position. He had to flee from his son, who rebelled against him. 2 Samuel 15:14 says that David had no other option other than escaping from his son Absalom. David experienced such humiliation that some of his own and close aides turned against him. However, David was not worried about his enemies and their darting mocks since he knew about the almighty God who could sustain him in any situation. David lost his kingdom, was separated from his family, and was fleeing. Instead of worrying, David expressed his peace of heart and confidence (v.5,6), for he was sure that God was always with him.
Application: At times, I may face a similar situation as David did. Sometimes, my environment or surroundings may not be pleasing to me, and I may face opposition from all corners. However, they cannot stop me from singing songs and experiencing the peace of GOD that no one can take away from me. Even if I encounter tens of thousands of enemies, I will not fear. People may come and go, but my loving Lord God is always with me. As someone said, "One plus God is equal to majority."
Prayer: Father, thank you for being with me even in my difficult times when I feel lonely. Thank you for your love and protection. Help me to be strong and bold in expressing my confidence in you and to face my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–03
Scripture: Genesis 7: 5 And Noah did all that the Lord commanded him.
Observation: In Noah's time, building an ark and warning people about the destructive flood should have been unusual for the people around him. Although "Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD," he was sincere in completing "ALL" the tasks that the Lord commanded him. In the New Testament, Noah is called "a preacher of righteousness." While he did all these, people may have laughed at him; evidently, none listened to him. However, he was faithful in his obedience to the LORD. His obedience saved his whole family and all creatures that entered the ark.
Application: I want to obey God and his commandments. However, I may prefer to obey him only in selected things or at my convenience instead of obeying him in everything. Over a period of time, I may get discouraged from obeying God, as people around me are least bothered about it. A delay in a promise being fulfilled or what I expected may push me to frustration and stop me from obeying God as the waiting period is seemingly longer than expected. I need to be patient in waiting for God and see the fulfillment of his words.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your refreshing grace for this day. I want to honor you in my life and work, not just in words. I need your strength to do this. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who always reminds and helps us to obey you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–04
Scripture: Psalm 5: 7 But I, by your great Love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. 8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.
Observation: In Psalm 5, David exclaims, LORD, you are the Holy One. But I, a sinner, come to you because of your loving kindness. We can come to God only by his grace. His loving kindness gives us the courage to enter into his presence. Then, trusting God's mercy, David prays for God's guidance to walk in His way.
Application: By God's Grace, I can come to him and enter into his presence wherever I live. As a sinner saved by His grace, I need God's guidance to walk in his righteous way and protection to live a blameless life. As I come to God today, I need to walk with God to enjoy his presence and Love throughout the day and live a holy life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your loving kindness to me. "Lead me" to live my life in your way. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–05
Scripture: Matthew 3: 15 Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.
Observation: In our reading today, we see Jesus' first words in the Gospel of Matthew. Until then, Jesus was an unknown person who lived a normal life. John the Baptist may have heard a few things about Jesus and their family connection through his mother. However, John was not aware of who Jesus really was (John 1:31). On the other hand, despite being fully aware of his identity, Jesus was ready "to fulfill all righteousness." When John baptized Jesus, it was the culmination of John's prophetic ministry. It became the time to declare the long-awaited good news about the arrival of the Messiah. As the Gospel says, the people around them could hear the heavenly affirmation of who Jesus is.
Application: Others may not know about my identity in Christ. However, that should not deter me from fulfilling all righteousness before God. Irrespective of my situation, I should voluntarily go forward to do the right things. Whatever I do, I am doing it for the Lord God, not for the people around me. When I do so, others will have opportunities to see and hear God through my life and actions.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the example you have shown us to walk in your righteous way through the life of Jesus Christ. Strengthen my feet to walk in your path. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–06
Scripture: Genesis 13: 12 Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.
Observation: In Genesis 13, we read Abram's noble character of giving up his rights to his relative Lot to choose instead of proving his superiority over things. Abram was a peace-loving person. He gave priority to staying in the promised land, Canaan. It doesn't mean that Abram was weak. In Chapter 14, we read that he could defeat the four mighty kings and deliver those whom the kings captured (including Lot). Notably, his eyes were on God and his promise, not on the things and wealth of this world. Instead of building an empire or a home for himself, Abraham built altars and called on the name of the LORD. Abram's life led him to live in peace and guided him to receive God's promise, but Lot became a prisoner of his circumstances.
Application: Instead of proving myself and my worth, I need to give preference to God's plan and will. At the same time, I should not neglect or abandon somebody when s/he is in trouble, whoever s/he may be. I must do what I can do. Above all, living in God's promises and staying with God gives more joy than anything else. I will not allow any worldly temptations to prevail over me. Like Jesus, I will appropriately use the Word of God to defeat the enemy.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the example you set before us. Help me to live in your words and walk with you today and always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–07
Scripture: Genesis 16: 6 Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. 7 The angel of the Lord found Hagar near a spring in the desert...13 She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me."
Observation: Lot chose to live in a good green place with plenty of water when he moved away from Abram. Here, without knowing the destination, Hagar ran away from Sarai to escape from Sarai's mistreatment. Instead of analyzing who must be held accountable for this misery in Hagar's life, observing what God did to her will be helpful for us. As the master of Hagar, Abram could have avoided this in Hagar's life. However, God, who cares and sees the people who are in need, found her. The invisible God helped Hagar to see his kindness and gave his word about the unborn son and guidance for Hagar. Without any doubt, we can say that Hagar was comforted and relieved from her sorrowful state since she saw the loving-kindness of the invisible God.
Application: I should avoid paying heed to my inclinations or wrong suggestions. Instead, I need to wait on God for the fulfillment of his promises. Further, I have to remember that I cannot go away from the sight of God. Whoever I may be, God can find me and communicate with me. Like David, I may ask God, "What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" (Ps.8:4). But the living God whom I serve sees me with Love. He is the one who cares for me so that I can cast all my worries upon him (1 Peter 5:7). Whatever state I may be in, wherever I am, they cannot hinder God from seeing me and giving his word for my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for finding me when I thought no one was for me and when I felt lonely. When you see and care for me, nothing else matters to me. Lord, help me to obey you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–08
Scripture: Genesis 17: 1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless…17 Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?"
18:11 Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?"
Observation: Today's reading passage has seeds for many contemplative thoughts. However, two things drew our attention as we read it. Here, God calls Abram to "walk" and to "be blameless." This call is not to live an ordinary life that everyone does but to walk with God faithfully. Walking with God and being blameless are inseparable. God called us to live a blameless life before him in front of the people who live around us.
It is somewhat surprising to see that the same Abraham who believed God's promise without any doubt when God answered his heart's desire for a child (Gen.15:1-6) now laughs in disbelief. Sarah also did the same. They were not speaking out about what they thought about bearing a son in their old age, but for God, they were audible. God did not reprimand them but reminded his promise again. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Application: I am called to live a faithful life, to walk with God, and to lead a blameless life. While I am faithful in external things, I need to be aware of being faithful to God in my own heart and thoughts. God sees them all. His word has the power to do anything impossible. I may be old or too young to walk with God and fulfill the call. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" All I need to do is to believe God’s word and wait for the appointed time for the fulfillment of his promise. "Everything is possible for one who believes" (Mark 9:23).
Prayer: Father God, instead of looking at my circumstances, hearing what others say, and thinking about what is not possible, help me look up and listen to your words to fulfill the call you have placed for me. Thank you for reminding me of the promise you gave me before. God, you are faithful. Lord, give me your strength to be faithful in everything. Amen
✍️: Arputharaj Samue
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–09
Scripture: Genesis 19: 1 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city...9 "Get out of our way," they replied. "This fellow came here as a foreigner, and now he wants to play the judge! We'll treat you worse than them."...14... But his sons-in-law thought he was joking...16 When he (Lot) hesitated....18 But Lot said to them, "No, my lords, please!
Observation: Lot started his journey well. He voluntarily agreed to travel with Abram without knowing the destination when God called Abram to leave his place. However, as Lot increased his possessions, he moved away from Abram to a better place with plenty of water near Sodom. Genesis chapter 19 gives the idea that Lot lived inside the city of Sodom and even gained some prominence. However, it appears that morally he compromised his character, reputation, and position to live among the people of Sodom. He became a laughing stock when he spoke of God's justice on Sodom. He was still hesitant to move away from the city of Sodom. Instead of settling in the place, God ordered him to live safely; again, he asked permission to go to a city that was supposed to be destroyed along with Sodom. Although apostle Peter tells of Lot's distress and torment because of the lawlessness of the men of Sodom, evidently, he continued to live in the city till the dawn of God's judgment. In the end, we see the deplorable condition of his family.
Application: Many good people who had a good beginning in their walk with God later moved away from God for various reasons. Lot's life is an example of understanding how one's desire for earthly things could affect his fate. I need to walk with God every day. I should not turn back to look at what I left behind for God and his kingdom. Further, I will resist anything evil in the sight of God. If I start to adjust to the situation and compromise with ungodly things, I also will be trapped in them someday. When God tells me to run away from certain things or people, my immediate response should be, "Yes, Lord."
Prayer: Father, thank you for your call to walk with you and to be blameless before you. Help me to walk with you every moment of my life. Thank you for the cross and your grace that enable me to do so. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides me. Amen.
I have decided to follow Jesus
No turning back, No turning back
The world behind me, the cross before me
No turning back, No turning back
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–10
Scripture: Matthew 6: 1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
Observation: Jesus draws our attention to the three most common things associated with one's religious life: almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. He clearly warns us not to do these "acts of righteousness" as hypocrites do. Instead of showing off to others for self-glorification, Jesus wants us to seek the reward from heaven when we practice almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. Here, he is not saying "if you do," but he says "when you" give, pray, and fasting (v.3,5,16). Jesus supposes that we would do these things in our private and public life as a follower of Christ. So, he gives us his direction on how to do it.
Application: Am I trying to win the hearts of people who see me, or am I living and doing things for God? My life here is an opportunity to glorify God. When Jesus vehemently opposes and warns against any hypocrisy, I should be diligent in exercising and practicing "the acts of righteousness" he mentions here. He says to me, "This is how you should..." so I will do them precisely as he guides.
Prayer: Father God, who sees my heart, thank you for the instruction to practice "the acts of righteousness." May your Holy Spirit enable me to follow and remind me of Jesus' words. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel 📕: Quiet Time Companion 🗓️ Day–11
Scripture: Matthew 6:25 Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?...31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Observation: Generally, there is no house without a door, no human without worries. Worry is a global disease that causes many sleepless nights to many. Here in Matthew 6, Jesus describes some of the main reasons for human anxiety and worry. He invites his listeners to a worry-free life in which God takes care of every need. God knows our every need, whether great or small. Not only that, he knows how to meet our needs as well. Those who trust God can see God's provision and protection in unusual ways unknown to humanity. See how God helped Abraham and answered his servant's prayer to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24). Instead of worrying about our needs, Jesus calls us to "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness." We can trust and believe the Word of God, for they are "flawless," and they are perfect that stand against any tests (Psalm 12).
Application: When I see a bird or a flower, I can remember Jesus' words about how God takes care of them and dresses them. When I see nature and God's creation, they are pleasant to my eyes to watch, and they remind me how much more worthy I am than these beautiful things. God knows my every need. So I will not fear and worry about anything. To live this worry-free life where God meets my every need, I will "seek first his kingdom and righteousness."
Prayer: Father, thank you for the word today. You know my needs. I can experience your providence and protection when I trust and follow your word. Help me "to keep the main thing the main thing." Give me your strength to live as a citizen of your kingdom and practice your righteousness. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–12
Scripture: Psalm 13:1 How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart?
Observation: David expresses his anguish over waiting for an extended period and despair of not seeing God in his tough time. Because of this, he goes through an inner battle that causes sorrow in his heart. As we wait to receive something for a period more than we expected, it could make our hearts weak. We may feel that God has neglected us. As we wait, if we constantly look at our problems, we may not see how to come out of them. However, that is not the endpoint. It could be a starting point to have a fresh look at God, remembering his acts of faithfulness in the past. That is what exactly David does here. Although he goes through various unknown issues, he expresses his confidence in God (13:5). When we begin to trust God, we are relieved from our worries and begin to experience joy and sing songs.
Application: I, too, tend to become weary when I wait for certain things. However, instead of allowing my heart to have an inner battle, I need to remember how God helped and rescued me in the past. As I recall his acts of faithfulness and fulfillment of his promises, my attention would turn to God to trust him. Then confidently, I can use such tough times to "wait on God." When I wait on God, I get renewed strength; I will not become weary. So, I praise God for everything, for HE is my everything!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unfailing Love for me. I will trust in you, for you are my hiding place. You never fail me. So, I will sing a song of praise. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–13
Scripture: Genesis 27:20 Isaac asked his son, "How did you find it so quickly, my son?” "The Lord your God gave me success," he replied.
Observation: Rebekah knew about God's favor and planned for the younger son (Gen.25:23); possibly Isaac was also aware of it. However, Isaac wants to share his final blessing with his elder son and asks Esau to bring his desired food. On the other hand, Rebekah prepares Jacob to deceive his father to get the same blessing. Earlier, Jacob deceitfully won the birthright from Esau by sharing some bread and stew, for Esau was careless about his birthright (25:29-34). We see the weakness of the entire family. Rebekah and Jacob were quick to find a way to deceive Isaac. Although they succeeded in their plan, it produced bitterness, fears, tears, and sorrows.
Notice Jacob's word; there is no personal connection between God and Jacob. So he says, "The Lord your God." Later, the same Rebekah who told Jacob, "Do what I say," to deceive Isaac, prepares him for the real blessing of the Lord by saying the exact words (27:8, 13, 43). Interestingly, Jacob obeyed his father and mother (for the first time?) and set out on his journey as they both instructed him. Esau also saw this obedience. More than that, God encountered Jacob during this journey of obedience and shared his words of promise. That is where Jacob's relationship with God started to become a personal one (28:12-22).
Application: How many times have I impatiently tried to get God's blessing in my way! Although I am sure of God's blessings and plan, there are times I failed to see God's timing and his way in my life. Instead of obeying God and waiting for HIS time, I may use deceitful ways by thinking it is for a good cause. As the bible says, God never lies (1 Sam.15:29). Although his promises and blessings are real and sure, I can receive them only through the journey of obedience and walking with him all through my life. There is no shortcut to receiving God's blessings.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your words and your blessings. Forgive me if I used any cunning ways in my life. Help me to walk with you in obedience and love. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–14
Scripture: Matthew 8: 1 When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. 2 A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." 3 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.
Observation: Ancient people were so afraid of skin diseases such as leprosy. According to Leviticus 13: 45-46, a person with leprosy is "unclean." S/he cannot live with a community; the person "must live alone." They were not allowed to come and meet even their family members. So their life was in such a miserable and unhygienic condition. Even a person who touched a leper was also considered "unclean." Therefore, this leper's move and his request for healing must have been unusual for the people around him. Jesus could have made him clean just by saying, "Be clean." But, he "reached out his hand and touched the man." It is not surprising that the healing took place immediately, but the touch of the Master. As Spurgeon observes, like leprosy separated a person from his/her community, sin separated us from God and made us unclean. Jesus is willing to touch anyone who wants to "be clean." Do we?
Application: People may ostracize me and hate to come near me, but Jesus never does it. I must realize that sin separates me from God, and Jesus alone can purify me. Instead of hiding myself in darkness and isolation, I should be ready to come to Jesus, for he is willing to clean my life and make me whole. I can experience the touch of the Master when I come to Jesus and ask him to make me clean. I can be confident in the truth that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" and "He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are willing to heal me. Thank you for the cross; thank you for your Love. Help me today to experience your touch of Love in my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–15
Scripture: Matthew 8: 24 Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
Observation: As I read this verse, I wonder how a person could sleep during a heavy storm. Jesus and his disciples were on a boat, not in a comfortable place to sleep well. When the waves toss up a boat, it would not be easy even to stand straight. "But Jesus was sleeping." His disciples were so afraid that they would drown in the water. So, they sought the help of Jesus. I see Jesus' response in this way: When I am on the boat, Jesus said to his disciples, "why are you so afraid?" They "were amazed" when the waves and the winds obeyed Jesus' rebuke. For some people, it is tough to accept miracles. However, as this bible passage says, Jesus has control over "even the winds and the waves." Jesus is the LORD over all of God's creation and creatures. At times, we may face sudden or unexpected events in our life. As long as Jesus is with us, we need not fear anything.
Application: When I face an unexpected storm in my life, what do I do? There are times I worry about my life and future. Restlessly, I try different things to save myself from the storm. The moment I realize my inability to control my situation and ask Jesus to keep me safe, I can experience the peace of God in my heart. Jesus is with me always. He is the LORD.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for this beautiful reminder that you are with me and all things are under your control. You are the Lord of my life. Help me today to experience your peace and to exalt your name. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–16
Scripture: Matthew 9:12 On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Observation: Today, we read about the immediate obedience of Matthew to Jesus' call to follow him. Without any second thought, he left his work and followed Jesus. In those days, tax collectors had a bad reputation among the Jews. The Jewish community hated them for various reasons. Therefore, when the Pharisees saw Jesus with the tax collectors, they questioned his disciples. But Jesus calls their attention to a new dimension to look at the needy ones. He asks his listeners to learn the words of prophet Hosea (Hos.6:6). God desires mercy more than our sacrifice. Here, the word "mercy" implies our proper conduct with our neighbors and our faithfulness to God. Jesus' call is open to all. Those who consider themselves righteous may not realize their need for God's mercy and salvation. But those who recognize that they are sinners will understand their spiritual needs. We have the responsibility to share God's medicine for the human soul with the needy ones.
Application: When I follow Jesus, am I looking at the pros and cons of my decision or simply following him day by day? While I accept his invitation to follow him, I need to realize that many people around me need Jesus in their lives. Therefore, I must be willing to go to them and share God's mercy. I will not allow any popular opinions, prejudices, and biases of other people to hinder my decision to follow Jesus and share God's Love for the needy.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your Love that saved me. I know that I am a sinner saved by your grace. Help me to understand the spiritual needs of others and to do my part wholeheartedly for those needs. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–17
Scripture: Genesis 35: 2 So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone."
Observation: The same God who promised Jacob, "I am with you" when he fled to Laban (Gen.28:12-15) later told him to "go back" to his father's land (Gen.31:3). Now he asks Jacob to go to Bethel, where Jacob had his first encounter with God. Earlier, Jacob called that place Bethel. As Jacob put it, Bethel means the House of God (Gen.28:17-19). Earlier, he met God in that place when he started his journey of obedience to his parents. Jacob returns to Bethel in obedience to God, where he first began his relationship with God. He testifies to God's faithfulness in his life. Although God did not ask him to remove anything, he voluntarily called his family for cleansing before they came to the house of God. Jacob removed everything that God disliked from his life and family. And then he buried those things.
Application: My God is faithful in his promises and always answers my prayers. He wants me to come to him without any delay. However, when I come to the house of God, I need to remove anything that displeases my God. Whatever it may be, whether precious or useless, I need to have a clear conscience and be ready to remove them from my life to purify me. As Jesus says, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). "The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your faithfulness in fulfilling your promises and answering my prayers. Help me to have a pure heart when I come and stand before you. Thank you for the sacrifice you made on the cross. Forgive my sins and purify my heart. Help me to live a blameless life before you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–18
Scripture: Psalm 19: 1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands... 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.....11 By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can discern their own errors?
Observation: Psalm 19 is an insightful song that reminds us of God's two great books. The one we are all familiar with is the Bible. The other one is, as the psalmist says, nature. In other words, one is the book of God's words, and the other one is the book of God's works. While God's works remind all people about the glory of God and reveal knowledge, the Word of God refreshes the soul, makes people wise, and gives "joy to a heart" and "light to the eyes." Moreover, it guides and warns a believer to live a blameless life before God.
Application: As I read Psalm 19, I understand the nature and the benefits of the Word of God. When I read the bible, I can enjoy all the benefits that are listed in this Psalm. However, without a personal application of God's word and realization of my "hidden faults" and "willful sins," I cannot experience the blessings of the Word of God. God can help me when I pray for forgiveness and his protection.
Prayer: "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer." Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–19
Scripture: Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. 8 They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.
Observation: Psalm 20 gives us a picture of a godly person: He stands in front of a powerful enemy and a liturgical prayer for his success. In those days, people considered war chariots and horses as symbols of an army's might. Here, we see that those chariots and horses were marching from the enemy's side. The battle scene we see here is that they (the enemies) are in chariots and horses, but we (who trust God) are in the name of our God. A collapse of a mighty army in front of a weak one that had no equal strength is unthinkable. However, the strong side is defeated. In today's world, money, job, education, family background, social status, and such things are considered as factors for success. However, when we are IN GOD, we can "rise up and stand firm" even when we have no power and strength compared to others who have them all.
Application: I may not have all the required resources for a successful life. Still, I can be confident when I am in God, no matter what I face in my life. When God is with me, and I am with God, he enables me to rise up and strengthens me to stand firm. God is the secret of my success in life. Therefore, I always put my trust in God, for he never fails.
Prayer: Father God, who answers our prayers, help me to put my trust in you and to live with you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–20
Scripture: Matthew 11:2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"... 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.
Observation: When John the Baptist was in prison, he may have wondered why he should spend his time in prison when Jesus, the promised Messiah, was out there. Since he announced the arrival of the Messiah, he may have had expectations of a royal rule from the Messiah that he would save God's people from the rule of the ungodly, like other Jews. So, when he heard about the deeds of Jesus, he may have wanted to clarify his doubts regarding Jesus and whether he was indeed the Messiah. In his response to John the Baptist, Jesus gently reminded him of the true mission of the Messiah as prophesied by the prophets and asked John's disciples to report to him what they witnessed in Jesus' life and ministry for the Kingdom of God. Instead of saying anything against John the Baptist, Jesus went on to give his testimony about him. Because Jesus knew who John was, although he was in prison.
Application: When I face injustice and go through a tough time surrounded by things contrary to my expectations, and I ask, "Why Lord?" doubts may come to my mind and raise questions about my faith and hope in God. However, when I experience doubts, I should know whom to ask my doubting questions. Approaching Jesus is the best way to deal with my doubts. When I come to Jesus, he helps me to deal with my doubts and increases my faith in him. Because he knows me fully, he knows how to help me as well.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for helping me to deal with my doubts. Whenever I feel depressed and a failure in my life, you help me look at you and your work instead of looking at my situation and my deplorable state. Thank you for your Love and care in dealing with my doubts. Help me to increase my faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–21
Scripture: Psalm 22: 7 All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, 8 "He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!"
Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Application: If I live a life that conforms to worldliness, people may welcome and accept me. But, when I start to live a committed life for God, I may face suffering, mockery, and rejection from others. However, I can call upon my God for help. Though no one is with me, I can pray to God when I feel that I am abandoned by all, even when I feel like God also deserted me. My weakness hinders me from seeing God's face and his nearness. However, when I pray to God and ask for his help, I can see him again and will be able to see his mighty acts of deliverance.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my God. Thank you for your Love, thank you for the Cross. When I go through difficult times in my life, help me ask "for what" instead of asking you, "Why God." You have a plan and purpose for my life. I will trust in you always. Nothing can separate me from my God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–22
Scripture: Genesis 2: 15-17 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”
Observation: Everything available in the Garden of Eden was “good for food” (v.9). The first man was “free to eat” anything except from one particular tree, i.e., a tree of the knowledge of good and evil. It was not a freedom to sin to gratify his desires. Instead, it was the freedom to obey what God the creator asked of him. When the law of the LORD becomes my delight and meditation, instead of grumbling or murmuring, I can be happy all the time. For the LORD always intends the good, for God is Love.
Application: Before me, God has placed a day or a month or a year. Further, God has given me the free will to do things in my life. However, the purpose of this free will is not to live an uncontrolled and unholy life. I will use this free will to obey God to live a holy life in front of God and the people around me. As apostle Paul says, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial” (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). Therefore, I will not allow the lust of my eyes to prevail over me but will meditate on the word of God. When I do this, as the bible says, I will prosper in my life in every way. (Ps.1)
Prayer: Father, thank you for all the provisions and blessings you have planted on this earth for me. Help me to use them appropriately as you desire. Holy Spirit! Strengthen me to live a life committed to God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–01
Scripture: Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
Observation: Here, we see the most cunning question that caused a severe doubt about God's provision for humanity. We all know of Eve's response and its consequences that affected the whole of humanity. Satan starts his deceiving works by casting doubts in the minds of people who pay attention to his voice. When people begin to speak with the devil, he manipulates them with his lies. Eventually, they become victims of his evil schemes, as Eve did. On the other hand, we see Mary and Joseph, who just believed what the angel of the Lord told them, despite having every reason to doubt it.
Application: When doubts arise in my mind, I should come and speak with the LORD God instead of talking with the devil. As long as I remain in my doubts, Satan tries his every trick to deceive me. Doubting is not a sin. However, my response to those doubts can separate me from God and lead me to sin against God. I can confidently approach God, who loves and cares for me. He patiently listens to my doubts and gives me clarity to come out of my confusion. If I decide to listen to Satan, then doubts produce confusions, confusions create frustrations, and frustrations lead to a separation from God. If I choose to go to God, my relationship with him will be intact. It has become closer than before.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your every provision. Help me to believe your words without any doubt. When doubt comes, without hiding it, help me to stand against evil and come to you without any hesitation. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–02
Scripture: Psalm 3: 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
Observation: David was a known warrior who won many battles. Some may think it is natural for a bold and brave person to express his heart like this. However, the situation indicates that David was in a miserable position. He had to flee from his son, who rebelled against him. 2 Samuel 15:14 says that David had no other option other than escaping from his son Absalom. David experienced such humiliation that some of his own and close aides turned against him. However, David was not worried about his enemies and their darting mocks since he knew about the almighty God who could sustain him in any situation. David lost his kingdom, was separated from his family, and was fleeing. Instead of worrying, David expressed his peace of heart and confidence (v.5,6), for he was sure that God was always with him.
Application: At times, I may face a similar situation as David did. Sometimes, my environment or surroundings may not be pleasing to me, and I may face opposition from all corners. However, they cannot stop me from singing songs and experiencing the peace of GOD that no one can take away from me. Even if I encounter tens of thousands of enemies, I will not fear. People may come and go, but my loving Lord God is always with me. As someone said, "One plus God is equal to majority."
Prayer: Father, thank you for being with me even in my difficult times when I feel lonely. Thank you for your love and protection. Help me to be strong and bold in expressing my confidence in you and to face my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–03
Scripture: Genesis 7: 5 And Noah did all that the Lord commanded him.
Observation: In Noah's time, building an ark and warning people about the destructive flood should have been unusual for the people around him. Although "Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD," he was sincere in completing "ALL" the tasks that the Lord commanded him. In the New Testament, Noah is called "a preacher of righteousness." While he did all these, people may have laughed at him; evidently, none listened to him. However, he was faithful in his obedience to the LORD. His obedience saved his whole family and all creatures that entered the ark.
Application: I want to obey God and his commandments. However, I may prefer to obey him only in selected things or at my convenience instead of obeying him in everything. Over a period of time, I may get discouraged from obeying God, as people around me are least bothered about it. A delay in a promise being fulfilled or what I expected may push me to frustration and stop me from obeying God as the waiting period is seemingly longer than expected. I need to be patient in waiting for God and see the fulfillment of his words.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your refreshing grace for this day. I want to honor you in my life and work, not just in words. I need your strength to do this. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who always reminds and helps us to obey you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–04
Scripture: Psalm 5: 7 But I, by your great Love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. 8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.
Observation: In Psalm 5, David exclaims, LORD, you are the Holy One. But I, a sinner, come to you because of your loving kindness. We can come to God only by his grace. His loving kindness gives us the courage to enter into his presence. Then, trusting God's mercy, David prays for God's guidance to walk in His way.
Application: By God's Grace, I can come to him and enter into his presence wherever I live. As a sinner saved by His grace, I need God's guidance to walk in his righteous way and protection to live a blameless life. As I come to God today, I need to walk with God to enjoy his presence and Love throughout the day and live a holy life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your loving kindness to me. "Lead me" to live my life in your way. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–05
Scripture: Matthew 3: 15 Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.
Observation: In our reading today, we see Jesus' first words in the Gospel of Matthew. Until then, Jesus was an unknown person who lived a normal life. John the Baptist may have heard a few things about Jesus and their family connection through his mother. However, John was not aware of who Jesus really was (John 1:31). On the other hand, despite being fully aware of his identity, Jesus was ready "to fulfill all righteousness." When John baptized Jesus, it was the culmination of John's prophetic ministry. It became the time to declare the long-awaited good news about the arrival of the Messiah. As the Gospel says, the people around them could hear the heavenly affirmation of who Jesus is.
Application: Others may not know about my identity in Christ. However, that should not deter me from fulfilling all righteousness before God. Irrespective of my situation, I should voluntarily go forward to do the right things. Whatever I do, I am doing it for the Lord God, not for the people around me. When I do so, others will have opportunities to see and hear God through my life and actions.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the example you have shown us to walk in your righteous way through the life of Jesus Christ. Strengthen my feet to walk in your path. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–06
Scripture: Genesis 13: 12 Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.
Observation: In Genesis 13, we read Abram's noble character of giving up his rights to his relative Lot to choose instead of proving his superiority over things. Abram was a peace-loving person. He gave priority to staying in the promised land, Canaan. It doesn't mean that Abram was weak. In Chapter 14, we read that he could defeat the four mighty kings and deliver those whom the kings captured (including Lot). Notably, his eyes were on God and his promise, not on the things and wealth of this world. Instead of building an empire or a home for himself, Abraham built altars and called on the name of the LORD. Abram's life led him to live in peace and guided him to receive God's promise, but Lot became a prisoner of his circumstances.
Application: Instead of proving myself and my worth, I need to give preference to God's plan and will. At the same time, I should not neglect or abandon somebody when s/he is in trouble, whoever s/he may be. I must do what I can do. Above all, living in God's promises and staying with God gives more joy than anything else. I will not allow any worldly temptations to prevail over me. Like Jesus, I will appropriately use the Word of God to defeat the enemy.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the example you set before us. Help me to live in your words and walk with you today and always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–07
Scripture: Genesis 16: 6 Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. 7 The angel of the Lord found Hagar near a spring in the desert...13 She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me."
Observation: Lot chose to live in a good green place with plenty of water when he moved away from Abram. Here, without knowing the destination, Hagar ran away from Sarai to escape from Sarai's mistreatment. Instead of analyzing who must be held accountable for this misery in Hagar's life, observing what God did to her will be helpful for us. As the master of Hagar, Abram could have avoided this in Hagar's life. However, God, who cares and sees the people who are in need, found her. The invisible God helped Hagar to see his kindness and gave his word about the unborn son and guidance for Hagar. Without any doubt, we can say that Hagar was comforted and relieved from her sorrowful state since she saw the loving-kindness of the invisible God.
Application: I should avoid paying heed to my inclinations or wrong suggestions. Instead, I need to wait on God for the fulfillment of his promises. Further, I have to remember that I cannot go away from the sight of God. Whoever I may be, God can find me and communicate with me. Like David, I may ask God, "What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" (Ps.8:4). But the living God whom I serve sees me with Love. He is the one who cares for me so that I can cast all my worries upon him (1 Peter 5:7). Whatever state I may be in, wherever I am, they cannot hinder God from seeing me and giving his word for my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for finding me when I thought no one was for me and when I felt lonely. When you see and care for me, nothing else matters to me. Lord, help me to obey you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–08
Scripture: Genesis 17: 1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless…17 Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?"
18:11 Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?"
Observation: Today's reading passage has seeds for many contemplative thoughts. However, two things drew our attention as we read it. Here, God calls Abram to "walk" and to "be blameless." This call is not to live an ordinary life that everyone does but to walk with God faithfully. Walking with God and being blameless are inseparable. God called us to live a blameless life before him in front of the people who live around us.
It is somewhat surprising to see that the same Abraham who believed God's promise without any doubt when God answered his heart's desire for a child (Gen.15:1-6) now laughs in disbelief. Sarah also did the same. They were not speaking out about what they thought about bearing a son in their old age, but for God, they were audible. God did not reprimand them but reminded his promise again. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Application: I am called to live a faithful life, to walk with God, and to lead a blameless life. While I am faithful in external things, I need to be aware of being faithful to God in my own heart and thoughts. God sees them all. His word has the power to do anything impossible. I may be old or too young to walk with God and fulfill the call. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" All I need to do is to believe God’s word and wait for the appointed time for the fulfillment of his promise. "Everything is possible for one who believes" (Mark 9:23).
Prayer: Father God, instead of looking at my circumstances, hearing what others say, and thinking about what is not possible, help me look up and listen to your words to fulfill the call you have placed for me. Thank you for reminding me of the promise you gave me before. God, you are faithful. Lord, give me your strength to be faithful in everything. Amen
✍️: Arputharaj Samue
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–09
Scripture: Genesis 19: 1 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city...9 "Get out of our way," they replied. "This fellow came here as a foreigner, and now he wants to play the judge! We'll treat you worse than them."...14... But his sons-in-law thought he was joking...16 When he (Lot) hesitated....18 But Lot said to them, "No, my lords, please!
Observation: Lot started his journey well. He voluntarily agreed to travel with Abram without knowing the destination when God called Abram to leave his place. However, as Lot increased his possessions, he moved away from Abram to a better place with plenty of water near Sodom. Genesis chapter 19 gives the idea that Lot lived inside the city of Sodom and even gained some prominence. However, it appears that morally he compromised his character, reputation, and position to live among the people of Sodom. He became a laughing stock when he spoke of God's justice on Sodom. He was still hesitant to move away from the city of Sodom. Instead of settling in the place, God ordered him to live safely; again, he asked permission to go to a city that was supposed to be destroyed along with Sodom. Although apostle Peter tells of Lot's distress and torment because of the lawlessness of the men of Sodom, evidently, he continued to live in the city till the dawn of God's judgment. In the end, we see the deplorable condition of his family.
Application: Many good people who had a good beginning in their walk with God later moved away from God for various reasons. Lot's life is an example of understanding how one's desire for earthly things could affect his fate. I need to walk with God every day. I should not turn back to look at what I left behind for God and his kingdom. Further, I will resist anything evil in the sight of God. If I start to adjust to the situation and compromise with ungodly things, I also will be trapped in them someday. When God tells me to run away from certain things or people, my immediate response should be, "Yes, Lord."
Prayer: Father, thank you for your call to walk with you and to be blameless before you. Help me to walk with you every moment of my life. Thank you for the cross and your grace that enable me to do so. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides me. Amen.
I have decided to follow Jesus
No turning back, No turning back
The world behind me, the cross before me
No turning back, No turning back
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–10
Scripture: Matthew 6: 1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
Observation: Jesus draws our attention to the three most common things associated with one's religious life: almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. He clearly warns us not to do these "acts of righteousness" as hypocrites do. Instead of showing off to others for self-glorification, Jesus wants us to seek the reward from heaven when we practice almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. Here, he is not saying "if you do," but he says "when you" give, pray, and fasting (v.3,5,16). Jesus supposes that we would do these things in our private and public life as a follower of Christ. So, he gives us his direction on how to do it.
Application: Am I trying to win the hearts of people who see me, or am I living and doing things for God? My life here is an opportunity to glorify God. When Jesus vehemently opposes and warns against any hypocrisy, I should be diligent in exercising and practicing "the acts of righteousness" he mentions here. He says to me, "This is how you should..." so I will do them precisely as he guides.
Prayer: Father God, who sees my heart, thank you for the instruction to practice "the acts of righteousness." May your Holy Spirit enable me to follow and remind me of Jesus' words. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel 📕: Quiet Time Companion 🗓️ Day–11
Scripture: Matthew 6:25 Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?...31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Observation: Generally, there is no house without a door, no human without worries. Worry is a global disease that causes many sleepless nights to many. Here in Matthew 6, Jesus describes some of the main reasons for human anxiety and worry. He invites his listeners to a worry-free life in which God takes care of every need. God knows our every need, whether great or small. Not only that, he knows how to meet our needs as well. Those who trust God can see God's provision and protection in unusual ways unknown to humanity. See how God helped Abraham and answered his servant's prayer to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24). Instead of worrying about our needs, Jesus calls us to "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness." We can trust and believe the Word of God, for they are "flawless," and they are perfect that stand against any tests (Psalm 12).
Application: When I see a bird or a flower, I can remember Jesus' words about how God takes care of them and dresses them. When I see nature and God's creation, they are pleasant to my eyes to watch, and they remind me how much more worthy I am than these beautiful things. God knows my every need. So I will not fear and worry about anything. To live this worry-free life where God meets my every need, I will "seek first his kingdom and righteousness."
Prayer: Father, thank you for the word today. You know my needs. I can experience your providence and protection when I trust and follow your word. Help me "to keep the main thing the main thing." Give me your strength to live as a citizen of your kingdom and practice your righteousness. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–12
Scripture: Psalm 13:1 How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart?
Observation: David expresses his anguish over waiting for an extended period and despair of not seeing God in his tough time. Because of this, he goes through an inner battle that causes sorrow in his heart. As we wait to receive something for a period more than we expected, it could make our hearts weak. We may feel that God has neglected us. As we wait, if we constantly look at our problems, we may not see how to come out of them. However, that is not the endpoint. It could be a starting point to have a fresh look at God, remembering his acts of faithfulness in the past. That is what exactly David does here. Although he goes through various unknown issues, he expresses his confidence in God (13:5). When we begin to trust God, we are relieved from our worries and begin to experience joy and sing songs.
Application: I, too, tend to become weary when I wait for certain things. However, instead of allowing my heart to have an inner battle, I need to remember how God helped and rescued me in the past. As I recall his acts of faithfulness and fulfillment of his promises, my attention would turn to God to trust him. Then confidently, I can use such tough times to "wait on God." When I wait on God, I get renewed strength; I will not become weary. So, I praise God for everything, for HE is my everything!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unfailing Love for me. I will trust in you, for you are my hiding place. You never fail me. So, I will sing a song of praise. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–13
Scripture: Genesis 27:20 Isaac asked his son, "How did you find it so quickly, my son?” "The Lord your God gave me success," he replied.
Observation: Rebekah knew about God's favor and planned for the younger son (Gen.25:23); possibly Isaac was also aware of it. However, Isaac wants to share his final blessing with his elder son and asks Esau to bring his desired food. On the other hand, Rebekah prepares Jacob to deceive his father to get the same blessing. Earlier, Jacob deceitfully won the birthright from Esau by sharing some bread and stew, for Esau was careless about his birthright (25:29-34). We see the weakness of the entire family. Rebekah and Jacob were quick to find a way to deceive Isaac. Although they succeeded in their plan, it produced bitterness, fears, tears, and sorrows.
Notice Jacob's word; there is no personal connection between God and Jacob. So he says, "The Lord your God." Later, the same Rebekah who told Jacob, "Do what I say," to deceive Isaac, prepares him for the real blessing of the Lord by saying the exact words (27:8, 13, 43). Interestingly, Jacob obeyed his father and mother (for the first time?) and set out on his journey as they both instructed him. Esau also saw this obedience. More than that, God encountered Jacob during this journey of obedience and shared his words of promise. That is where Jacob's relationship with God started to become a personal one (28:12-22).
Application: How many times have I impatiently tried to get God's blessing in my way! Although I am sure of God's blessings and plan, there are times I failed to see God's timing and his way in my life. Instead of obeying God and waiting for HIS time, I may use deceitful ways by thinking it is for a good cause. As the bible says, God never lies (1 Sam.15:29). Although his promises and blessings are real and sure, I can receive them only through the journey of obedience and walking with him all through my life. There is no shortcut to receiving God's blessings.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your words and your blessings. Forgive me if I used any cunning ways in my life. Help me to walk with you in obedience and love. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–14
Scripture: Matthew 8: 1 When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. 2 A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." 3 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.
Observation: Ancient people were so afraid of skin diseases such as leprosy. According to Leviticus 13: 45-46, a person with leprosy is "unclean." S/he cannot live with a community; the person "must live alone." They were not allowed to come and meet even their family members. So their life was in such a miserable and unhygienic condition. Even a person who touched a leper was also considered "unclean." Therefore, this leper's move and his request for healing must have been unusual for the people around him. Jesus could have made him clean just by saying, "Be clean." But, he "reached out his hand and touched the man." It is not surprising that the healing took place immediately, but the touch of the Master. As Spurgeon observes, like leprosy separated a person from his/her community, sin separated us from God and made us unclean. Jesus is willing to touch anyone who wants to "be clean." Do we?
Application: People may ostracize me and hate to come near me, but Jesus never does it. I must realize that sin separates me from God, and Jesus alone can purify me. Instead of hiding myself in darkness and isolation, I should be ready to come to Jesus, for he is willing to clean my life and make me whole. I can experience the touch of the Master when I come to Jesus and ask him to make me clean. I can be confident in the truth that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" and "He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are willing to heal me. Thank you for the cross; thank you for your Love. Help me today to experience your touch of Love in my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–15
Scripture: Matthew 8: 24 Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
Observation: As I read this verse, I wonder how a person could sleep during a heavy storm. Jesus and his disciples were on a boat, not in a comfortable place to sleep well. When the waves toss up a boat, it would not be easy even to stand straight. "But Jesus was sleeping." His disciples were so afraid that they would drown in the water. So, they sought the help of Jesus. I see Jesus' response in this way: When I am on the boat, Jesus said to his disciples, "why are you so afraid?" They "were amazed" when the waves and the winds obeyed Jesus' rebuke. For some people, it is tough to accept miracles. However, as this bible passage says, Jesus has control over "even the winds and the waves." Jesus is the LORD over all of God's creation and creatures. At times, we may face sudden or unexpected events in our life. As long as Jesus is with us, we need not fear anything.
Application: When I face an unexpected storm in my life, what do I do? There are times I worry about my life and future. Restlessly, I try different things to save myself from the storm. The moment I realize my inability to control my situation and ask Jesus to keep me safe, I can experience the peace of God in my heart. Jesus is with me always. He is the LORD.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for this beautiful reminder that you are with me and all things are under your control. You are the Lord of my life. Help me today to experience your peace and to exalt your name. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–16
Scripture: Matthew 9:12 On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Observation: Today, we read about the immediate obedience of Matthew to Jesus' call to follow him. Without any second thought, he left his work and followed Jesus. In those days, tax collectors had a bad reputation among the Jews. The Jewish community hated them for various reasons. Therefore, when the Pharisees saw Jesus with the tax collectors, they questioned his disciples. But Jesus calls their attention to a new dimension to look at the needy ones. He asks his listeners to learn the words of prophet Hosea (Hos.6:6). God desires mercy more than our sacrifice. Here, the word "mercy" implies our proper conduct with our neighbors and our faithfulness to God. Jesus' call is open to all. Those who consider themselves righteous may not realize their need for God's mercy and salvation. But those who recognize that they are sinners will understand their spiritual needs. We have the responsibility to share God's medicine for the human soul with the needy ones.
Application: When I follow Jesus, am I looking at the pros and cons of my decision or simply following him day by day? While I accept his invitation to follow him, I need to realize that many people around me need Jesus in their lives. Therefore, I must be willing to go to them and share God's mercy. I will not allow any popular opinions, prejudices, and biases of other people to hinder my decision to follow Jesus and share God's Love for the needy.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your Love that saved me. I know that I am a sinner saved by your grace. Help me to understand the spiritual needs of others and to do my part wholeheartedly for those needs. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–17
Scripture: Genesis 35: 2 So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone."
Observation: The same God who promised Jacob, "I am with you" when he fled to Laban (Gen.28:12-15) later told him to "go back" to his father's land (Gen.31:3). Now he asks Jacob to go to Bethel, where Jacob had his first encounter with God. Earlier, Jacob called that place Bethel. As Jacob put it, Bethel means the House of God (Gen.28:17-19). Earlier, he met God in that place when he started his journey of obedience to his parents. Jacob returns to Bethel in obedience to God, where he first began his relationship with God. He testifies to God's faithfulness in his life. Although God did not ask him to remove anything, he voluntarily called his family for cleansing before they came to the house of God. Jacob removed everything that God disliked from his life and family. And then he buried those things.
Application: My God is faithful in his promises and always answers my prayers. He wants me to come to him without any delay. However, when I come to the house of God, I need to remove anything that displeases my God. Whatever it may be, whether precious or useless, I need to have a clear conscience and be ready to remove them from my life to purify me. As Jesus says, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). "The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your faithfulness in fulfilling your promises and answering my prayers. Help me to have a pure heart when I come and stand before you. Thank you for the sacrifice you made on the cross. Forgive my sins and purify my heart. Help me to live a blameless life before you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–18
Scripture: Psalm 19: 1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands... 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.....11 By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can discern their own errors?
Observation: Psalm 19 is an insightful song that reminds us of God's two great books. The one we are all familiar with is the Bible. The other one is, as the psalmist says, nature. In other words, one is the book of God's words, and the other one is the book of God's works. While God's works remind all people about the glory of God and reveal knowledge, the Word of God refreshes the soul, makes people wise, and gives "joy to a heart" and "light to the eyes." Moreover, it guides and warns a believer to live a blameless life before God.
Application: As I read Psalm 19, I understand the nature and the benefits of the Word of God. When I read the bible, I can enjoy all the benefits that are listed in this Psalm. However, without a personal application of God's word and realization of my "hidden faults" and "willful sins," I cannot experience the blessings of the Word of God. God can help me when I pray for forgiveness and his protection.
Prayer: "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer." Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–19
Scripture: Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. 8 They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.
Observation: Psalm 20 gives us a picture of a godly person: He stands in front of a powerful enemy and a liturgical prayer for his success. In those days, people considered war chariots and horses as symbols of an army's might. Here, we see that those chariots and horses were marching from the enemy's side. The battle scene we see here is that they (the enemies) are in chariots and horses, but we (who trust God) are in the name of our God. A collapse of a mighty army in front of a weak one that had no equal strength is unthinkable. However, the strong side is defeated. In today's world, money, job, education, family background, social status, and such things are considered as factors for success. However, when we are IN GOD, we can "rise up and stand firm" even when we have no power and strength compared to others who have them all.
Application: I may not have all the required resources for a successful life. Still, I can be confident when I am in God, no matter what I face in my life. When God is with me, and I am with God, he enables me to rise up and strengthens me to stand firm. God is the secret of my success in life. Therefore, I always put my trust in God, for he never fails.
Prayer: Father God, who answers our prayers, help me to put my trust in you and to live with you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–20
Scripture: Matthew 11:2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"... 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.
Observation: When John the Baptist was in prison, he may have wondered why he should spend his time in prison when Jesus, the promised Messiah, was out there. Since he announced the arrival of the Messiah, he may have had expectations of a royal rule from the Messiah that he would save God's people from the rule of the ungodly, like other Jews. So, when he heard about the deeds of Jesus, he may have wanted to clarify his doubts regarding Jesus and whether he was indeed the Messiah. In his response to John the Baptist, Jesus gently reminded him of the true mission of the Messiah as prophesied by the prophets and asked John's disciples to report to him what they witnessed in Jesus' life and ministry for the Kingdom of God. Instead of saying anything against John the Baptist, Jesus went on to give his testimony about him. Because Jesus knew who John was, although he was in prison.
Application: When I face injustice and go through a tough time surrounded by things contrary to my expectations, and I ask, "Why Lord?" doubts may come to my mind and raise questions about my faith and hope in God. However, when I experience doubts, I should know whom to ask my doubting questions. Approaching Jesus is the best way to deal with my doubts. When I come to Jesus, he helps me to deal with my doubts and increases my faith in him. Because he knows me fully, he knows how to help me as well.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for helping me to deal with my doubts. Whenever I feel depressed and a failure in my life, you help me look at you and your work instead of looking at my situation and my deplorable state. Thank you for your Love and care in dealing with my doubts. Help me to increase my faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–21
Scripture: Psalm 22: 7 All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, 8 "He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!"
Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Application: If I live a life that conforms to worldliness, people may welcome and accept me. But, when I start to live a committed life for God, I may face suffering, mockery, and rejection from others. However, I can call upon my God for help. Though no one is with me, I can pray to God when I feel that I am abandoned by all, even when I feel like God also deserted me. My weakness hinders me from seeing God's face and his nearness. However, when I pray to God and ask for his help, I can see him again and will be able to see his mighty acts of deliverance.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my God. Thank you for your Love, thank you for the Cross. When I go through difficult times in my life, help me ask "for what" instead of asking you, "Why God." You have a plan and purpose for my life. I will trust in you always. Nothing can separate me from my God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–22
Scripture: Genesis 2: 15-17 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”
Observation: Everything available in the Garden of Eden was “good for food” (v.9). The first man was “free to eat” anything except from one particular tree, i.e., a tree of the knowledge of good and evil. It was not a freedom to sin to gratify his desires. Instead, it was the freedom to obey what God the creator asked of him. When the law of the LORD becomes my delight and meditation, instead of grumbling or murmuring, I can be happy all the time. For the LORD always intends the good, for God is Love.
Application: Before me, God has placed a day or a month or a year. Further, God has given me the free will to do things in my life. However, the purpose of this free will is not to live an uncontrolled and unholy life. I will use this free will to obey God to live a holy life in front of God and the people around me. As apostle Paul says, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial” (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). Therefore, I will not allow the lust of my eyes to prevail over me but will meditate on the word of God. When I do this, as the bible says, I will prosper in my life in every way. (Ps.1)
Prayer: Father, thank you for all the provisions and blessings you have planted on this earth for me. Help me to use them appropriately as you desire. Holy Spirit! Strengthen me to live a life committed to God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–01
Scripture: Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
Observation: Here, we see the most cunning question that caused a severe doubt about God's provision for humanity. We all know of Eve's response and its consequences that affected the whole of humanity. Satan starts his deceiving works by casting doubts in the minds of people who pay attention to his voice. When people begin to speak with the devil, he manipulates them with his lies. Eventually, they become victims of his evil schemes, as Eve did. On the other hand, we see Mary and Joseph, who just believed what the angel of the Lord told them, despite having every reason to doubt it.
Application: When doubts arise in my mind, I should come and speak with the LORD God instead of talking with the devil. As long as I remain in my doubts, Satan tries his every trick to deceive me. Doubting is not a sin. However, my response to those doubts can separate me from God and lead me to sin against God. I can confidently approach God, who loves and cares for me. He patiently listens to my doubts and gives me clarity to come out of my confusion. If I decide to listen to Satan, then doubts produce confusions, confusions create frustrations, and frustrations lead to a separation from God. If I choose to go to God, my relationship with him will be intact. It has become closer than before.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your every provision. Help me to believe your words without any doubt. When doubt comes, without hiding it, help me to stand against evil and come to you without any hesitation. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–02
Scripture: Psalm 3: 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
Observation: David was a known warrior who won many battles. Some may think it is natural for a bold and brave person to express his heart like this. However, the situation indicates that David was in a miserable position. He had to flee from his son, who rebelled against him. 2 Samuel 15:14 says that David had no other option other than escaping from his son Absalom. David experienced such humiliation that some of his own and close aides turned against him. However, David was not worried about his enemies and their darting mocks since he knew about the almighty God who could sustain him in any situation. David lost his kingdom, was separated from his family, and was fleeing. Instead of worrying, David expressed his peace of heart and confidence (v.5,6), for he was sure that God was always with him.
Application: At times, I may face a similar situation as David did. Sometimes, my environment or surroundings may not be pleasing to me, and I may face opposition from all corners. However, they cannot stop me from singing songs and experiencing the peace of GOD that no one can take away from me. Even if I encounter tens of thousands of enemies, I will not fear. People may come and go, but my loving Lord God is always with me. As someone said, "One plus God is equal to majority."
Prayer: Father, thank you for being with me even in my difficult times when I feel lonely. Thank you for your love and protection. Help me to be strong and bold in expressing my confidence in you and to face my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–03
Scripture: Genesis 7: 5 And Noah did all that the Lord commanded him.
Observation: In Noah's time, building an ark and warning people about the destructive flood should have been unusual for the people around him. Although "Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD," he was sincere in completing "ALL" the tasks that the Lord commanded him. In the New Testament, Noah is called "a preacher of righteousness." While he did all these, people may have laughed at him; evidently, none listened to him. However, he was faithful in his obedience to the LORD. His obedience saved his whole family and all creatures that entered the ark.
Application: I want to obey God and his commandments. However, I may prefer to obey him only in selected things or at my convenience instead of obeying him in everything. Over a period of time, I may get discouraged from obeying God, as people around me are least bothered about it. A delay in a promise being fulfilled or what I expected may push me to frustration and stop me from obeying God as the waiting period is seemingly longer than expected. I need to be patient in waiting for God and see the fulfillment of his words.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your refreshing grace for this day. I want to honor you in my life and work, not just in words. I need your strength to do this. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who always reminds and helps us to obey you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–04
Scripture: Psalm 5: 7 But I, by your great Love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. 8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.
Observation: In Psalm 5, David exclaims, LORD, you are the Holy One. But I, a sinner, come to you because of your loving kindness. We can come to God only by his grace. His loving kindness gives us the courage to enter into his presence. Then, trusting God's mercy, David prays for God's guidance to walk in His way.
Application: By God's Grace, I can come to him and enter into his presence wherever I live. As a sinner saved by His grace, I need God's guidance to walk in his righteous way and protection to live a blameless life. As I come to God today, I need to walk with God to enjoy his presence and Love throughout the day and live a holy life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your loving kindness to me. "Lead me" to live my life in your way. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–05
Scripture: Matthew 3: 15 Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.
Observation: In our reading today, we see Jesus' first words in the Gospel of Matthew. Until then, Jesus was an unknown person who lived a normal life. John the Baptist may have heard a few things about Jesus and their family connection through his mother. However, John was not aware of who Jesus really was (John 1:31). On the other hand, despite being fully aware of his identity, Jesus was ready "to fulfill all righteousness." When John baptized Jesus, it was the culmination of John's prophetic ministry. It became the time to declare the long-awaited good news about the arrival of the Messiah. As the Gospel says, the people around them could hear the heavenly affirmation of who Jesus is.
Application: Others may not know about my identity in Christ. However, that should not deter me from fulfilling all righteousness before God. Irrespective of my situation, I should voluntarily go forward to do the right things. Whatever I do, I am doing it for the Lord God, not for the people around me. When I do so, others will have opportunities to see and hear God through my life and actions.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the example you have shown us to walk in your righteous way through the life of Jesus Christ. Strengthen my feet to walk in your path. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–06
Scripture: Genesis 13: 12 Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.
Observation: In Genesis 13, we read Abram's noble character of giving up his rights to his relative Lot to choose instead of proving his superiority over things. Abram was a peace-loving person. He gave priority to staying in the promised land, Canaan. It doesn't mean that Abram was weak. In Chapter 14, we read that he could defeat the four mighty kings and deliver those whom the kings captured (including Lot). Notably, his eyes were on God and his promise, not on the things and wealth of this world. Instead of building an empire or a home for himself, Abraham built altars and called on the name of the LORD. Abram's life led him to live in peace and guided him to receive God's promise, but Lot became a prisoner of his circumstances.
Application: Instead of proving myself and my worth, I need to give preference to God's plan and will. At the same time, I should not neglect or abandon somebody when s/he is in trouble, whoever s/he may be. I must do what I can do. Above all, living in God's promises and staying with God gives more joy than anything else. I will not allow any worldly temptations to prevail over me. Like Jesus, I will appropriately use the Word of God to defeat the enemy.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the example you set before us. Help me to live in your words and walk with you today and always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–07
Scripture: Genesis 16: 6 Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. 7 The angel of the Lord found Hagar near a spring in the desert...13 She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me."
Observation: Lot chose to live in a good green place with plenty of water when he moved away from Abram. Here, without knowing the destination, Hagar ran away from Sarai to escape from Sarai's mistreatment. Instead of analyzing who must be held accountable for this misery in Hagar's life, observing what God did to her will be helpful for us. As the master of Hagar, Abram could have avoided this in Hagar's life. However, God, who cares and sees the people who are in need, found her. The invisible God helped Hagar to see his kindness and gave his word about the unborn son and guidance for Hagar. Without any doubt, we can say that Hagar was comforted and relieved from her sorrowful state since she saw the loving-kindness of the invisible God.
Application: I should avoid paying heed to my inclinations or wrong suggestions. Instead, I need to wait on God for the fulfillment of his promises. Further, I have to remember that I cannot go away from the sight of God. Whoever I may be, God can find me and communicate with me. Like David, I may ask God, "What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" (Ps.8:4). But the living God whom I serve sees me with Love. He is the one who cares for me so that I can cast all my worries upon him (1 Peter 5:7). Whatever state I may be in, wherever I am, they cannot hinder God from seeing me and giving his word for my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for finding me when I thought no one was for me and when I felt lonely. When you see and care for me, nothing else matters to me. Lord, help me to obey you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–08
Scripture: Genesis 17: 1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless…17 Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?"
18:11 Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?"
Observation: Today's reading passage has seeds for many contemplative thoughts. However, two things drew our attention as we read it. Here, God calls Abram to "walk" and to "be blameless." This call is not to live an ordinary life that everyone does but to walk with God faithfully. Walking with God and being blameless are inseparable. God called us to live a blameless life before him in front of the people who live around us.
It is somewhat surprising to see that the same Abraham who believed God's promise without any doubt when God answered his heart's desire for a child (Gen.15:1-6) now laughs in disbelief. Sarah also did the same. They were not speaking out about what they thought about bearing a son in their old age, but for God, they were audible. God did not reprimand them but reminded his promise again. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Application: I am called to live a faithful life, to walk with God, and to lead a blameless life. While I am faithful in external things, I need to be aware of being faithful to God in my own heart and thoughts. God sees them all. His word has the power to do anything impossible. I may be old or too young to walk with God and fulfill the call. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" All I need to do is to believe God’s word and wait for the appointed time for the fulfillment of his promise. "Everything is possible for one who believes" (Mark 9:23).
Prayer: Father God, instead of looking at my circumstances, hearing what others say, and thinking about what is not possible, help me look up and listen to your words to fulfill the call you have placed for me. Thank you for reminding me of the promise you gave me before. God, you are faithful. Lord, give me your strength to be faithful in everything. Amen
✍️: Arputharaj Samue
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–09
Scripture: Genesis 19: 1 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city...9 "Get out of our way," they replied. "This fellow came here as a foreigner, and now he wants to play the judge! We'll treat you worse than them."...14... But his sons-in-law thought he was joking...16 When he (Lot) hesitated....18 But Lot said to them, "No, my lords, please!
Observation: Lot started his journey well. He voluntarily agreed to travel with Abram without knowing the destination when God called Abram to leave his place. However, as Lot increased his possessions, he moved away from Abram to a better place with plenty of water near Sodom. Genesis chapter 19 gives the idea that Lot lived inside the city of Sodom and even gained some prominence. However, it appears that morally he compromised his character, reputation, and position to live among the people of Sodom. He became a laughing stock when he spoke of God's justice on Sodom. He was still hesitant to move away from the city of Sodom. Instead of settling in the place, God ordered him to live safely; again, he asked permission to go to a city that was supposed to be destroyed along with Sodom. Although apostle Peter tells of Lot's distress and torment because of the lawlessness of the men of Sodom, evidently, he continued to live in the city till the dawn of God's judgment. In the end, we see the deplorable condition of his family.
Application: Many good people who had a good beginning in their walk with God later moved away from God for various reasons. Lot's life is an example of understanding how one's desire for earthly things could affect his fate. I need to walk with God every day. I should not turn back to look at what I left behind for God and his kingdom. Further, I will resist anything evil in the sight of God. If I start to adjust to the situation and compromise with ungodly things, I also will be trapped in them someday. When God tells me to run away from certain things or people, my immediate response should be, "Yes, Lord."
Prayer: Father, thank you for your call to walk with you and to be blameless before you. Help me to walk with you every moment of my life. Thank you for the cross and your grace that enable me to do so. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides me. Amen.
I have decided to follow Jesus
No turning back, No turning back
The world behind me, the cross before me
No turning back, No turning back
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–10
Scripture: Matthew 6: 1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
Observation: Jesus draws our attention to the three most common things associated with one's religious life: almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. He clearly warns us not to do these "acts of righteousness" as hypocrites do. Instead of showing off to others for self-glorification, Jesus wants us to seek the reward from heaven when we practice almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. Here, he is not saying "if you do," but he says "when you" give, pray, and fasting (v.3,5,16). Jesus supposes that we would do these things in our private and public life as a follower of Christ. So, he gives us his direction on how to do it.
Application: Am I trying to win the hearts of people who see me, or am I living and doing things for God? My life here is an opportunity to glorify God. When Jesus vehemently opposes and warns against any hypocrisy, I should be diligent in exercising and practicing "the acts of righteousness" he mentions here. He says to me, "This is how you should..." so I will do them precisely as he guides.
Prayer: Father God, who sees my heart, thank you for the instruction to practice "the acts of righteousness." May your Holy Spirit enable me to follow and remind me of Jesus' words. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel 📕: Quiet Time Companion 🗓️ Day–11
Scripture: Matthew 6:25 Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?...31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Observation: Generally, there is no house without a door, no human without worries. Worry is a global disease that causes many sleepless nights to many. Here in Matthew 6, Jesus describes some of the main reasons for human anxiety and worry. He invites his listeners to a worry-free life in which God takes care of every need. God knows our every need, whether great or small. Not only that, he knows how to meet our needs as well. Those who trust God can see God's provision and protection in unusual ways unknown to humanity. See how God helped Abraham and answered his servant's prayer to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24). Instead of worrying about our needs, Jesus calls us to "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness." We can trust and believe the Word of God, for they are "flawless," and they are perfect that stand against any tests (Psalm 12).
Application: When I see a bird or a flower, I can remember Jesus' words about how God takes care of them and dresses them. When I see nature and God's creation, they are pleasant to my eyes to watch, and they remind me how much more worthy I am than these beautiful things. God knows my every need. So I will not fear and worry about anything. To live this worry-free life where God meets my every need, I will "seek first his kingdom and righteousness."
Prayer: Father, thank you for the word today. You know my needs. I can experience your providence and protection when I trust and follow your word. Help me "to keep the main thing the main thing." Give me your strength to live as a citizen of your kingdom and practice your righteousness. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–12
Scripture: Psalm 13:1 How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart?
Observation: David expresses his anguish over waiting for an extended period and despair of not seeing God in his tough time. Because of this, he goes through an inner battle that causes sorrow in his heart. As we wait to receive something for a period more than we expected, it could make our hearts weak. We may feel that God has neglected us. As we wait, if we constantly look at our problems, we may not see how to come out of them. However, that is not the endpoint. It could be a starting point to have a fresh look at God, remembering his acts of faithfulness in the past. That is what exactly David does here. Although he goes through various unknown issues, he expresses his confidence in God (13:5). When we begin to trust God, we are relieved from our worries and begin to experience joy and sing songs.
Application: I, too, tend to become weary when I wait for certain things. However, instead of allowing my heart to have an inner battle, I need to remember how God helped and rescued me in the past. As I recall his acts of faithfulness and fulfillment of his promises, my attention would turn to God to trust him. Then confidently, I can use such tough times to "wait on God." When I wait on God, I get renewed strength; I will not become weary. So, I praise God for everything, for HE is my everything!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unfailing Love for me. I will trust in you, for you are my hiding place. You never fail me. So, I will sing a song of praise. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–13
Scripture: Genesis 27:20 Isaac asked his son, "How did you find it so quickly, my son?” "The Lord your God gave me success," he replied.
Observation: Rebekah knew about God's favor and planned for the younger son (Gen.25:23); possibly Isaac was also aware of it. However, Isaac wants to share his final blessing with his elder son and asks Esau to bring his desired food. On the other hand, Rebekah prepares Jacob to deceive his father to get the same blessing. Earlier, Jacob deceitfully won the birthright from Esau by sharing some bread and stew, for Esau was careless about his birthright (25:29-34). We see the weakness of the entire family. Rebekah and Jacob were quick to find a way to deceive Isaac. Although they succeeded in their plan, it produced bitterness, fears, tears, and sorrows.
Notice Jacob's word; there is no personal connection between God and Jacob. So he says, "The Lord your God." Later, the same Rebekah who told Jacob, "Do what I say," to deceive Isaac, prepares him for the real blessing of the Lord by saying the exact words (27:8, 13, 43). Interestingly, Jacob obeyed his father and mother (for the first time?) and set out on his journey as they both instructed him. Esau also saw this obedience. More than that, God encountered Jacob during this journey of obedience and shared his words of promise. That is where Jacob's relationship with God started to become a personal one (28:12-22).
Application: How many times have I impatiently tried to get God's blessing in my way! Although I am sure of God's blessings and plan, there are times I failed to see God's timing and his way in my life. Instead of obeying God and waiting for HIS time, I may use deceitful ways by thinking it is for a good cause. As the bible says, God never lies (1 Sam.15:29). Although his promises and blessings are real and sure, I can receive them only through the journey of obedience and walking with him all through my life. There is no shortcut to receiving God's blessings.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your words and your blessings. Forgive me if I used any cunning ways in my life. Help me to walk with you in obedience and love. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–14
Scripture: Matthew 8: 1 When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. 2 A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." 3 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.
Observation: Ancient people were so afraid of skin diseases such as leprosy. According to Leviticus 13: 45-46, a person with leprosy is "unclean." S/he cannot live with a community; the person "must live alone." They were not allowed to come and meet even their family members. So their life was in such a miserable and unhygienic condition. Even a person who touched a leper was also considered "unclean." Therefore, this leper's move and his request for healing must have been unusual for the people around him. Jesus could have made him clean just by saying, "Be clean." But, he "reached out his hand and touched the man." It is not surprising that the healing took place immediately, but the touch of the Master. As Spurgeon observes, like leprosy separated a person from his/her community, sin separated us from God and made us unclean. Jesus is willing to touch anyone who wants to "be clean." Do we?
Application: People may ostracize me and hate to come near me, but Jesus never does it. I must realize that sin separates me from God, and Jesus alone can purify me. Instead of hiding myself in darkness and isolation, I should be ready to come to Jesus, for he is willing to clean my life and make me whole. I can experience the touch of the Master when I come to Jesus and ask him to make me clean. I can be confident in the truth that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" and "He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are willing to heal me. Thank you for the cross; thank you for your Love. Help me today to experience your touch of Love in my life. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–15
Scripture: Matthew 8: 24 Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
Observation: As I read this verse, I wonder how a person could sleep during a heavy storm. Jesus and his disciples were on a boat, not in a comfortable place to sleep well. When the waves toss up a boat, it would not be easy even to stand straight. "But Jesus was sleeping." His disciples were so afraid that they would drown in the water. So, they sought the help of Jesus. I see Jesus' response in this way: When I am on the boat, Jesus said to his disciples, "why are you so afraid?" They "were amazed" when the waves and the winds obeyed Jesus' rebuke. For some people, it is tough to accept miracles. However, as this bible passage says, Jesus has control over "even the winds and the waves." Jesus is the LORD over all of God's creation and creatures. At times, we may face sudden or unexpected events in our life. As long as Jesus is with us, we need not fear anything.
Application: When I face an unexpected storm in my life, what do I do? There are times I worry about my life and future. Restlessly, I try different things to save myself from the storm. The moment I realize my inability to control my situation and ask Jesus to keep me safe, I can experience the peace of God in my heart. Jesus is with me always. He is the LORD.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for this beautiful reminder that you are with me and all things are under your control. You are the Lord of my life. Help me today to experience your peace and to exalt your name. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–16
Scripture: Matthew 9:12 On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Observation: Today, we read about the immediate obedience of Matthew to Jesus' call to follow him. Without any second thought, he left his work and followed Jesus. In those days, tax collectors had a bad reputation among the Jews. The Jewish community hated them for various reasons. Therefore, when the Pharisees saw Jesus with the tax collectors, they questioned his disciples. But Jesus calls their attention to a new dimension to look at the needy ones. He asks his listeners to learn the words of prophet Hosea (Hos.6:6). God desires mercy more than our sacrifice. Here, the word "mercy" implies our proper conduct with our neighbors and our faithfulness to God. Jesus' call is open to all. Those who consider themselves righteous may not realize their need for God's mercy and salvation. But those who recognize that they are sinners will understand their spiritual needs. We have the responsibility to share God's medicine for the human soul with the needy ones.
Application: When I follow Jesus, am I looking at the pros and cons of my decision or simply following him day by day? While I accept his invitation to follow him, I need to realize that many people around me need Jesus in their lives. Therefore, I must be willing to go to them and share God's mercy. I will not allow any popular opinions, prejudices, and biases of other people to hinder my decision to follow Jesus and share God's Love for the needy.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your Love that saved me. I know that I am a sinner saved by your grace. Help me to understand the spiritual needs of others and to do my part wholeheartedly for those needs. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–17
Scripture: Genesis 35: 2 So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone."
Observation: The same God who promised Jacob, "I am with you" when he fled to Laban (Gen.28:12-15) later told him to "go back" to his father's land (Gen.31:3). Now he asks Jacob to go to Bethel, where Jacob had his first encounter with God. Earlier, Jacob called that place Bethel. As Jacob put it, Bethel means the House of God (Gen.28:17-19). Earlier, he met God in that place when he started his journey of obedience to his parents. Jacob returns to Bethel in obedience to God, where he first began his relationship with God. He testifies to God's faithfulness in his life. Although God did not ask him to remove anything, he voluntarily called his family for cleansing before they came to the house of God. Jacob removed everything that God disliked from his life and family. And then he buried those things.
Application: My God is faithful in his promises and always answers my prayers. He wants me to come to him without any delay. However, when I come to the house of God, I need to remove anything that displeases my God. Whatever it may be, whether precious or useless, I need to have a clear conscience and be ready to remove them from my life to purify me. As Jesus says, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). "The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your faithfulness in fulfilling your promises and answering my prayers. Help me to have a pure heart when I come and stand before you. Thank you for the sacrifice you made on the cross. Forgive my sins and purify my heart. Help me to live a blameless life before you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–18
Scripture: Psalm 19: 1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands... 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.....11 By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can discern their own errors?
Observation: Psalm 19 is an insightful song that reminds us of God's two great books. The one we are all familiar with is the Bible. The other one is, as the psalmist says, nature. In other words, one is the book of God's words, and the other one is the book of God's works. While God's works remind all people about the glory of God and reveal knowledge, the Word of God refreshes the soul, makes people wise, and gives "joy to a heart" and "light to the eyes." Moreover, it guides and warns a believer to live a blameless life before God.
Application: As I read Psalm 19, I understand the nature and the benefits of the Word of God. When I read the bible, I can enjoy all the benefits that are listed in this Psalm. However, without a personal application of God's word and realization of my "hidden faults" and "willful sins," I cannot experience the blessings of the Word of God. God can help me when I pray for forgiveness and his protection.
Prayer: "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer." Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–19
Scripture: Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. 8 They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.
Observation: Psalm 20 gives us a picture of a godly person: He stands in front of a powerful enemy and a liturgical prayer for his success. In those days, people considered war chariots and horses as symbols of an army's might. Here, we see that those chariots and horses were marching from the enemy's side. The battle scene we see here is that they (the enemies) are in chariots and horses, but we (who trust God) are in the name of our God. A collapse of a mighty army in front of a weak one that had no equal strength is unthinkable. However, the strong side is defeated. In today's world, money, job, education, family background, social status, and such things are considered as factors for success. However, when we are IN GOD, we can "rise up and stand firm" even when we have no power and strength compared to others who have them all.
Application: I may not have all the required resources for a successful life. Still, I can be confident when I am in God, no matter what I face in my life. When God is with me, and I am with God, he enables me to rise up and strengthens me to stand firm. God is the secret of my success in life. Therefore, I always put my trust in God, for he never fails.
Prayer: Father God, who answers our prayers, help me to put my trust in you and to live with you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–20
Scripture: Matthew 11:2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"... 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.
Observation: When John the Baptist was in prison, he may have wondered why he should spend his time in prison when Jesus, the promised Messiah, was out there. Since he announced the arrival of the Messiah, he may have had expectations of a royal rule from the Messiah that he would save God's people from the rule of the ungodly, like other Jews. So, when he heard about the deeds of Jesus, he may have wanted to clarify his doubts regarding Jesus and whether he was indeed the Messiah. In his response to John the Baptist, Jesus gently reminded him of the true mission of the Messiah as prophesied by the prophets and asked John's disciples to report to him what they witnessed in Jesus' life and ministry for the Kingdom of God. Instead of saying anything against John the Baptist, Jesus went on to give his testimony about him. Because Jesus knew who John was, although he was in prison.
Application: When I face injustice and go through a tough time surrounded by things contrary to my expectations, and I ask, "Why Lord?" doubts may come to my mind and raise questions about my faith and hope in God. However, when I experience doubts, I should know whom to ask my doubting questions. Approaching Jesus is the best way to deal with my doubts. When I come to Jesus, he helps me to deal with my doubts and increases my faith in him. Because he knows me fully, he knows how to help me as well.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for helping me to deal with my doubts. Whenever I feel depressed and a failure in my life, you help me look at you and your work instead of looking at my situation and my deplorable state. Thank you for your Love and care in dealing with my doubts. Help me to increase my faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–21
Scripture: Psalm 22: 7 All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, 8 "He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!"
Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Application: If I live a life that conforms to worldliness, people may welcome and accept me. But, when I start to live a committed life for God, I may face suffering, mockery, and rejection from others. However, I can call upon my God for help. Though no one is with me, I can pray to God when I feel that I am abandoned by all, even when I feel like God also deserted me. My weakness hinders me from seeing God's face and his nearness. However, when I pray to God and ask for his help, I can see him again and will be able to see his mighty acts of deliverance.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my God. Thank you for your Love, thank you for the Cross. When I go through difficult times in my life, help me ask "for what" instead of asking you, "Why God." You have a plan and purpose for my life. I will trust in you always. Nothing can separate me from my God. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day–22
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Observation: David must have written this Psalm during one of his tough times when he felt abandoned and humiliated by others. Psalm 22 gives a picture of a righteous sufferer who trusts in God. When we read Psalm 22, we see how aptly it fits with the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon rightly says this is "The Psalm of the Cross." As David expresses his agony and heart cry, he not only describes his sorrowful state but asks for God's help and says what he would do after God's deliverance. People who see the sufferings of another person may despise and disdain him/her. BUT GOD always listens to the prayers of such sufferers and delivers them (Ps.22:24). And they will praise God in the end. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10).
Scripture: Genesis 17: 1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless…17 Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?"
Read: 
Observation: David expresses his anguish over waiting for an extended period and despair of not seeing God in his tough time. Because of this, he goes through an inner battle that causes sorrow in his heart. As we wait to receive something for a period more than we expected, it could make our hearts weak. We may feel that God has neglected us. As we wait, if we constantly look at our problems, we may not see how to come out of them. However, that is not the endpoint. It could be a starting point to have a fresh look at God, remembering his acts of faithfulness in the past. That is what exactly David does here. Although he goes through various unknown issues, he expresses his confidence in God (13:5). When we begin to trust God, we are relieved from our worries and begin to experience joy and sing songs.
replied.
Scripture: Matthew 8: 24 Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
Scripture: Genesis 35: 2 So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone."
he benefits of the Word of God. When I read the bible, I can enjoy all the benefits that are listed in this Psalm. However, without a personal application of God's word and realization of my "hidden faults" and "willful sins," I cannot experience the blessings of the Word of God. God can help me when I pray for forgiveness and his protection.
Scripture: Matthew 11:2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"... 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.
