“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.
Are you happy today?
Read: 1 Samuel 1,2; Psalm 118; Luke 15:11-32
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Observation: There are many interpretations given for Psalm 118. However, in all the interpretations, one common thing is that this psalm was used as a thanksgiving song in Jewish prayers during their important festivals. Psalm 118 is a part of "Egyptian Hallel," which consists of 6 Psalms (Ps113-118) in Jewish liturgy. The psalmist remembers God's deliverance from his enemies and expresses his thanksgiving to the Lord. "This very day" in verse 24 alludes to the day God made the rejected stone as the cornerstone. God can make a person who is considered as unworthy become an indispensable person.
One thing that we need to remember every day is, "This is the day that the Lord has made." Our situations, struggles, problems, jobs, positions etc. differ from one another. Being happy today is very important in our life. When we remember God's past deliverance, we can thank God for today and be happy about it. Our life situations will not be the same forever. God wants us to be happy every day, regardless of our situation. Our rejoicing today is a prelude to our deliverance tomorrow. Our dependence on God keeps us happy, not our life situations.
Application: God has done so many amazing things in my life. I thank God for his faithfulness in lifting me up to the present situation. As the psalmist says, "I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done" (v.17). This day, this minute, and even this very second I breathe are God-given gifts to me. I cannot get it back If I miss it. I may be unhappy about my past life, but I can be happy today. Instead of looking at my present situation, when I remember God, I can be happy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance you give me. Thank you for your enduring love. Help me to be happy today. Lord, you are the source of my joy and strength. Help me to depend on you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 118
Scripture: Deuteronomy 27: 9 Then Moses and the Levitical priests said to all Israel, “Be silent, Israel, and listen! You have now become the people of the Lord your God. 10 Obey the Lord your God and follow his commands and decrees that I give you today.”
Observation: In Deuteronomy 27 and 28, we see a list of blessings and curses that would come upon the Israelites based on their obedience to the Lord and his commands. Some people think that these two chapters give more verses on curses than on God's blessings. When we read these chapters, we understand that these blessings or curses will be the results of either obedience or disobedience, respectively. When we look at the sentences that start with "If," we understand how it is connected with the command of God that we read in Deut.27:10. Although the Israelites became the people of God a long time ago, here we read that "You have now become the people of the Lord....Obey the Lord..today." This event must have renewed the covenant and reaffirmed the Israelites' commitment to the Lord. In the loud and noisy environment of the world, we may not be able to hear what the Lord expects from us. O my soul, be silent and listen to what the Lord speaks to you today.
Application: Obedience to the Lord and following his commands always brings forth all the blessings of the earth and heaven. What I do decides what I will get in my life! If I obey God, I will see all the blessings in my life. However, the greatest blessing is that I belong to God. I am one among the people of the Lord my God. Every day, I need to remind myself of this and look at God to know what areas he expects me to obey today. As a child of God, I choose to obey him and follow his commands every day of my life. This is my choice!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for remembering me and renewing your loving relationship every day. You are concerned about my day-to-day life. Lord, help me to obey and follow your commands today. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 90
Scripture: Psalm 91: 9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
Observation: Psalm 91 is one of the most used psalms by believers who trust and seek God's protection. God's place is a safe haven. However, a person starts to experience God's protection when s/he openly proclaims his/her trust in God. Those who make God their refuge live a protected life from the attacks of enemies and diseases. Whether it is a day or a night, a person protected by God will not be affected by enemies and diseases like a wicked person. When we say God is our safe haven, we experience both spiritual and physical protection. How much more protected we are! Seeking God's protection and the protection that God gives us, they both are acts of LOVE.
Application: When I say I trust God, it is not an expression of my weaknesses or incompetence. Instead, I express my love and trust in God. When the most high God is ready to offer his shelter to me, I can find no better place to live than it, for he gives me the best protection that goes beyond any human comprehension. Sometimes, I may not be able to explain how God protects me. But I can experience his protection every day, with the peace he gives.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my refuge and my fortress. Nothing can harm me when I am under your protection. Even if I have to go through tough times, you will help me come out victoriously because you love me. Lord, help me to love and trust you better every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 91
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31: 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Observation: In Deuteronomy chapter 31, when Moses was giving his final instruction to Joshua to lead the Israelites, we see the repeated occurrence of the phrase "Be strong and courageous" (v. 7,8, 23). Moses would not be there to lead the people into the promised land. Moses was aware that his earthly life would come to an end soon. But God is always available to lead his people. When leaders change, or God's people face an attack or threats from enemies, God encourages his people by saying, "Be strong and courageous" (Josh.1, 1 Ch.22:13, 2 Ch. 32:7). Godly people need not worry or be afraid about the future. Because, as we see in the bible passages mentioned here, God always goes with his people. God never leaves his people nor forsakes them. No matter what challenges or dangers are ahead of us; God comes with us. He wants us to be confident to face them without any fear. With God's ever presence with us, we can "be strong and courageous."
Application: When I face difficult times of my life, when I fear about the changes that are taking place in my life, when I encounter great challenges in my life, and when I am about to enter a new place or start a new thing, I should remember that God is with me and he would never forsake me. Instead of worrying and fearing about the future, I need to "be strong and courageous" by remembering God's constant presence with me. My fears and worries do not help me. They could collapse my strength and peace. God comes with me, and he is the source of my strength and courage.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unchanging love in the changing world. As I enter a new day or a new phase of my life, help me remember that you are with me. My God, irrespective of the situation I face, give me the required strength to walk with you in all of my life, to "be strong and courageous." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 92
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33: 29 Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights."
Observation: This is the concluding verse of the final blessing of Moses, the man of God, to the Israelites. When Moses saw the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, how the Lord protected the Israelites and provided their needs during the forty years of the wilderness journey, he said in astonishment, "Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you." They are unique because there is no one like their God (v.26). He is the eternal God! As we see here, God's protection, providence, and victory are not just things of the past. He will continue to provide his help till his people win against their enemies. As long as his people live under God's rule, they will live safely. The people of God are indeed blessed!
Application: When others talk about the blessedness of my life, I should remember that it is God who provides all that I need and protects me. My God is worthy of praise and worship. The God of heaven has given me the privilege of being one among his people. When the Lord himself is my shield and helper, how much should I cooperate with him to do his will for my life! Living with God is something that is really unique and an unparalleled blessing.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your amazing grace that saves me. You care for my every need. Thank you for your provision. I praise you for your protection thus far. My savior, help me today to enjoy the blessedness of living under your care and safety with joy and contentment. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 93
Scripture: Psalm 94: 12 Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law.
Observation: In Psalm 94, we read about two types of people and how the Lord disciplines them. The wicked people who do not fear God and do evil deeds are warned of the Lord's punishment. On the other hand, psalm 94 says of the blessedness of the righteous person whom God disciplines (v.12-19). While the evildoers receive warnings about their punishment, God disciplines his people to correct them to live according to his word. He does this to help the person he disciplines to understand the Scripture and know what God wants to do with him/her. We should know that God disciplines us for our good (Heb.12:10). It may be unpleasant for a while until we understand God's intended purposes. Here is a reminder: when God disciplines us, he helps, supports, consoles, and sends his relief. "For the Lord will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance" (v.14).
Application: When God disciplines me, I should turn my attention to God's word to know what changes he expects from me instead of complaining about the difficulties. When God disciplines, he prunes and purifies me. I need to understand that God does this because he loves me. When I allow God to discipline me, how precious it would be! Having the best teacher on my side is the privilege of the Christian life. When I correct myself based on the Lord's teaching, I get a clear picture of his will for my life.
Prayer: Lord, you are the great teacher who helps your children to walk in your way, according to your word. You want me to be holy, like you. Oh, my heavenly teacher, help me to understand your love and give me the wisdom to obey your words. Lord, help me today to be with you and to understand your words. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 94
Scripture: Luke 4:5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours." 8 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'"
Observation: After forty days of fasting, Jesus was hungry. He must have been physically tired and weak. Here we read how Satan tried to spoil the purpose of Jesus' incarnation with various means. Satan was able to show the whole world instantly in his attempt to tempt Jesus. This might have been a mental or spiritual vision. With a condition, Satan was ready to give his authority over all the world to Jesus. Satan's tempting condition was that Jesus should worship him. Jesus could have gained power and authority over the earth without dying on the cross. But he did not do it because it was against the very purpose of His mission to redeem the whole world. Jesus responded to him with the Word of God and said, 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.' In Matthew 4:10, Jesus immediately responded, "Away from me, Satan!"
How many Christians who went through similar temptations had lost their call in pursuit of worldly possessions, positions, and power! They think that some small compromises are not big sins, and God would understand their situation. We need to understand that anything that stops us from worshipping God or entices us to worship something else is actually not from God. Notice how Jesus used the Scripture passage when he responded to Satan. When Peter did not understand about the crucifixion and rebuked Jesus, Jesus told him, "You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns" (Mt.16:23). "Today, if only you would hear his voice, 'Do not harden your hearts'" (Ps.95:8).
Application: Satan wants all people to worship him. He tempts every person to turn their attention away from God. When I face such temptations of gaining worldly things, the first thing I need to do is to check whether it is from God or not. For God does not tempt anyone (Jam.1:13). Sometimes, my lust for certain things may mislead me. Secondly, I should be aware that the devil is "a liar and the father of lies" (Jn.8:44). Then, without giving even a foothold to Satan, I should boldly proclaim what the Word of God says. As Paul writes to Ephesians, the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit (Eph.6:17).
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to stand against evil temptations and to worship God alone. I cannot serve two masters. Dear God, help me to recognize anything that hinders me from worshipping you. Lord, give me your strength today to prioritize the concerns of God and live accordingly. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 95
Scripture: Psalm 96: 9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.
Observation: Since Psalm 96 closely resembles 1 Chronicles 16:23-33, some say that it was written by David. This psalm first encourages its readers and hearers to sing and praise God. Secondly, it gives reasons to praise and worship God. Thirdly, it gives a unique picture of how to worship God! This distinguishes the key difference between the worship of God Yahweh and idol worship. In Hebrew, the phrase "in the splendor of his holiness" may refer to more than one meaning. Some may think that whether it says about the holiness of God or the holy clothing of a person who worships God. There is no doubt about God's holiness. He is the Holy God. This makes him unique among all gods. However, what makes him even more unique is that he expects us to worship "in the splendor of his holiness."
Holy God expects holy worship! How we come before God really matters to him. Does this mean that we cannot worship God if we are not holy! NO. God repeatedly says, "I am the Lord, who makes you holy." All we need is to acknowledge our true state before him and ask him for forgiveness with true repentance. He purifies us so that we can worship God. How do we come to worship God?
Application: I hear a lot of Christian songs that help me sing and praise God almighty. Praising and singing about God are good starters to worship God. However, God is pleased with the worship that is made "in the splendor of his holiness." No other ornamentation or clothing pleases God more than holy worship. I should not say that "I am not a holy person, so I will not worship God." He removes my fears and makes me holy when I come before him with godly fear. He is able!
Prayer: Father God, you are the Holy One of Israel! You want me to be holy, just as you are. Holy God, discipline me so that I may partake in your holiness. It is not just when I come before you, but help me always lead a holy life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 96
Scripture: Luke 5: 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
Observation: When we read Luke 5:8, we may wonder what Peter saw at that moment! Peter, a professional fisherman, must have been surprised when Jesus told him, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch." Fishermen prefer to fish early in the morning or at nighttime, for it is the best time to catch fish. It is unusual that Peter and his men caught nothing here, even after they tried all night. However, when he let down the nets in obedience to Jesus' words, he saw something fresh about Jesus. Obviously, it was not the first time he had been with Jesus. Until then, Peter may have known Jesus as a carpenter's son from Nazareth, or a teacher, or a miracle worker, and so on. When he saw the abundance of fish in their nets, he must have understood that Jesus was more than any other person in the world.
When people realize the nearness of God, they become aware of their real sinful state and unworthiness to stand close to him. When Isaiah saw God, he became conscious of his actual state in front of the Holy God (Is.6:5). Notice what Peter did: "He fell at Jesus' knees" and said, "Lord." In other words, as soon as he realized that all his skills and traits were nothing before Jesus, he surrendered to Jesus. See the difference in how Peter called Jesus - Master Jesus became the Lord Jesus. After that, Jesus made him a fisher of men. After this incident, he and his friends left their nets to be with Jesus permanently. They were no longer occasional visitors to Jesus. Afterward, they began to follow Jesus closely wherever he went.
Application: When I come near to Jesus, when I have a personal encounter with Jesus, I get a clear picture of who Jesus is and who I am! Seeing Jesus in the distance or meeting him once in a while would give me a respectable understanding of Jesus. Some people do not want to come near Jesus because they want to avoid exposure about their true state. Instead, they maintain a distance from Jesus and marvel at him. I should not do this. Until I allow him to come close to me or go near him, I will miss an excellent opportunity to know him better and personally and realize my true being. When I realize that Jesus is my Lord, my life is transformed totally. Then, I become a new person by living with him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for continually giving me many opportunities to come near you, though I am not worthy to come before you. Thank you for your call that changes me as your follower and a disciple. Lord, help me stay close to you today and know more about you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 97
Scripture: Luke 5: 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better.'”
Observation: When we look at the context of Luke 5:38, 39, we see the questions and doubts raised against Jesus and his disciples. Against the common Jewish practice of that time, Jesus dined with sinners and tax collectors. Pharisees called Jesus a friend of sinners. They raised questions concerning the practice of Jesus' disciples about fasting and prayer and compared it with the practice of the disciples of John and the Pharisees. John lived an ascetic life with simple food (Mt.3:4). His disciples may have learned about fasting from him as an act of repentance. Moreover, John was in prison. So, his disciples may have fasted for his release. Pharisees practiced a strict religious life with a list of so many do's and don'ts. This includes regular fasting (Lk.18:12). In the Pentateuch, we read about many festivals according to the law of Moses. Israelites were not commanded to fast regularly except on the day of atonement (Lev.16:29).
Here, did Jesus say anything against fasting? NO. In fact, he himself fasted (Matthew 4); In his Sermon on the Mount, he spoke about the spiritual benefit of voluntary fasting (Matthew 6). The major difference between Jesus' ministry and others was that Jesus preached a new way of living that embraced all and gave hope to those who accepted him, irrespective of their background. The way he chose his disciples, his love for sinners and tax collectors, and his teaching were completely different from the customs of those days. Pharisees and the disciples of John did not understand it. So, Jesus explained the newness of his teaching and ministry with a double parable. The Gospel of Jesus offers a fresh vision for our life. We should not try to mix it with our old customs. Unlike the Pharisees, who were not ready to change their perception, we need to be open-minded to accept Jesus' teaching and live accordingly.
Application:* Jesus wants me to have a fresh look at my life. He wants to change the way I look at others. Instead of judging others, I need to show Christ's love to all. I should not hesitate to go near the people who are hated by society. They, too, need God's love and the Gospel. I should be ready to follow Jesus and his footsteps, not the customs of the world.
Prayer: Jesus, though you hated sins and lived a holy life on the earth, you were a friend of sinners, gave them an opportunity to come to God, and transformed their lives. You have changed me in many things. However, as a child of God, I need to become like you. Lord, help me to live and to speak just like you. Jesus, help me to lead the new life of following you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 98
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 100: 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Observation: Psalm 100 invites all people to come and praise God. Some may think, why should we praise God? This short psalm precisely mentions some of the important reasons to praise God. First of all, the Lord is the God. There is no one like him. We need to know him as the God. Not only that, he is the creator who made us. "we are his people, the sheep of his pasture" (v.3). Is this not enough to praise God! The Psalm lists a few more reasons to praise the Lord. He is the good God. His love is enduring love forever. Look at his faithfulness! It does not end with us. His faithfulness continues through all generations. The Bible testifies to God's continual faithfulness. What more reason do we need to praise the Lord! Shall we enter (this day) his gates with thanksgiving and praise?
Application: I find no difficulty in praising God when everything goes smoothly. However, when I go through failures, frustrations, and disappointments, and when I do not get what I want, sometimes, I feel as if there is no reason to praise God. It happens only when I look at my situation. In such times, I need to look upon my creator God and know he cares for me. I belong to him. He is the good God whose love endures forever. God is good all the time! I may not know the reason for my present situation. But, it should not be a hindrance to praise God. If my current situation does not motivate me to praise God, I can think of God's faithfulness in the last hundred days of my life. How many amazing things he has done to me in this period! What can stop me from praising God!
Prayer: Good God, thank you for your enduring love for me. Thank you for the promise of your never-ending faithfulness. Lord God, I praise you with all my heart. No words can fully express my heart that praises you! Help me today to enter your presence with thanksgiving and with a heart of praise. Hallelujah, Praise ye the Lord. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 100
Scripture: Luke 7: 6 So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
Observation: Here, we see another instance that amazed Jesus. Nevertheless, this time, the faith of the centurion amazed Jesus. In the earlier incident, we read that Jesus was amazed at the lack of faith of his hometown people (Mt.6:6). As compared to the brief account of Matthew, Luke gives more information about the Centurion story. It was a common practice in the ancient Middle East to send intermediaries to speak for someone. These mediators' words were considered the words of the person who sent them. In this Gospel narrative, notably, two things draw our attention.
First, the centurion understood his worthiness to come before Jesus. It explains his respect for Jesus and his unworthiness to stand before the Lord. This is possibly a reference to his moral and sinful state. He did not consider his high position in the Roman military, his wealthy status, and his social acceptance as an eligibility to come before Jesus. Secondly, and importantly, as a man of authority, he had a better understanding of the power of Jesus’ words. He didn't even ask Jesus to heal his servant but asked him to say a word. He believed the word of Jesus was powerful enough to heal his servant.
This was a spectacular miracle that a person who was far away from Jesus received his healing through the power of his word. It was an unusual miracle! We need to take note of the centurion's understanding of his worthiness and the power of the word of authority. Jesus' word has everything we need. It is powerful!
Application: When I ask myself a question that whether I am worthy to come before Jesus, I understand that I could come before Jesus only by his grace and love, not because of any merits I earned. My money, social status, and powerful position do not make me worthy to stand before the Holy God. When I humble myself and confess my unworthiness to stand before God, HE sees it. I will see miracles in my life when I understand the power of Jesus' words. My faith and the lack of my faith both could amaze Jesus. I want Jesus to see my faith in him and his words.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for helping me understand my actual state and the power of your words. You show no partiality with anyone. Help me be humble and seek your word for my life situations. Lord, say the word for my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 101
Scripture: Psalm 102: 17 He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea.
Observation: Psalm 102 is "a prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord." The intense pain and depression of the psalmist's distressing situation are described in verses 3-11. As the psalmist thought that he was on the brink of death, he remembered God and expressed his hope in him. The eternal God never rejects a prayer of a person in great need. God listens, responds, and answers the prayer of an afflicted person. When the psalmist saw God during the time of his sorrowful state, he understood that God’s love endures forever. Though heaven and earth may change, God never changes but remains the same. Like the psalmist, when we go through affliction, we need to remember our everlasting and eternal God, who never changes. He will answer our prayers. He will change our misery. When we look upon the unchanging God, we understand that our present (distressing) situation is not permanent. For the Lord God will not despise our plea.
Application: When I face uncertainty, depression, loneliness, grief, fears, and taunts, I need to look upon God instead of seeing my situations. God is my hope in such difficult times. Though no one helps me, God will take care of me. He answers my prayer. In the changing world, God never changes. I put my trust in God. I will seek his face when I face any distress.
Prayer: Everlasting God, thank you for helping me to understand who you are. In a world that is filled with uncertainties, Lord, you are my hope. Help me to remain in you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 102
Scripture: Luke 8: 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”
Observation: Some Christians misunderstand this passage (Luke 8:17-18) and question whether God would take away what we have. However, when we read the passage in its context, we can understand what Jesus tells us. In Luke 8, we read that Jesus interpreted the meaning of the 'Parable of the Sower' to his disciples. Jesus told them about four types of people who hear the Word of God. There is no mystery in the Gospel of Jesus. Jesus wants to reveal the secret of God's kingdom and make it known to all. Truth cannot be concealed in a clay jar. Those who accept the truth see the light and become a light that removes the darkness of the world. Truth should be kept on a lampstand so that all who come to light may benefit from it. Verse 17 suggests that all the secrets will be revealed to us.
The key verse in this passage is, "therefore consider carefully how you listen." How we listen to the Word matters to God. The Parable of the Sower is not just about the seeds that fell on different grounds. It says of different persons who heard God's word. Not all who listen to the Word of God will be saved and produce multi-fold results. Those who keep God's word in the right place will get the desired results. Others, they would lose even what they think they have. Notice the words and understand the differences. They do not have the word, but they think they have it. Because they did not give an appropriate place for the Word of God, it will be taken from them.
Application: Jesus not only likes to reveal the secret truths about God and the Kingdom of God. He wants me to understand the truth and give light to others by sharing it with them. It is not about how bright I am or how far my light goes. Instead, it is about how carefully I listen to the Word of God and put it in the right place for its growth and for a fruitful harvest. Merely listening to the Word of God is not enough, but when I obey God's word, I can expect God's results (James 1:22-25). Although listening to the Word of God is important, it would not be complete without putting it into practice.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for explaining the truth, which helps me understand the secrets of the Kingdom of God. Help me listen to your words carefully and practice them every day diligently. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 103
"What is your name?" - A simple question that may reveal legion of things!
Read: Joshua 21,22; Psalm 104; Luke 8:26-56
Scripture: Luke 8: 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.
Observation: Here we see a man who was in a terrible condition of demon possession. He was uncontrollable by chains, as he was under the control of the demon. Though he was alive, he lived in tombs. However, when he saw Jesus, all the control of the demon started to crumble at Jesus' feet. When Jesus asked his name, the demons that lived in him responded to Jesus. They had such control over him. It was certainly not a single demon. There was a legion of demons in him. In the Roman army, the term legion would refer to a division of 6000 men. This man was possessed by a large number of demons. All these demons were so afraid of Jesus. But, Jesus was concerned about the deliverance of the man. When the people of the area came to see what had happened, they saw the same demon-possessed man "sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind" (v.35). The man wanted to follow Jesus. But Jesus told the man to return to his home to testify what God has done to him. Interestingly, this man witnessed what Jesus did to him to the whole town.
Application: When somebody asks my name, how would it be if someone else gives an answer instead of me. If that unknown person lives in me and would speak forcefully on behalf of me without my permission, certainly my life will be in a mess. Isn't it? The man we see in Luke 8 had many demons in him. I may not live in such a demon-controlled life. However, at times, particularly when I am provoked to do something, or when I face sinful temptations, I notice that instead of me, some things within me try to use the situation to take a control and to enslave me. It may be my anger or my bitter past experiences or my self or my weaknesses and so on. When things go out of control, I need to fall at the feet of Jesus. The number of things that disturbs me is not a matter to Jesus. There is no better place to deal with such things than the feet of Jesus. When I sit with him, I find peace and the right mindset. I am with Jesus. I belong to Jesus. I will not live as a living dead, but will live as a living testimony of Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for delivering people from the control of demons. You are my savior. I live in your care. If any known or unknown things try to take control of my life, help me to bring it to your feet. Thank you for giving me the peace that transcends all understanding. Lord Jesus, guard my heart and my thoughts. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 104
Scripture: Joshua 24: 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Observation: The Bible tells us about the final words of many great men of God. In Joshua 24, we see Joshua's final speech with the Israelites. After briefly recapitulating what the Lord has done to the Israelites, Joshua challenged the people to serve the Lord. At that time, Israelites were living in the promised land, which God won for them. They did not need to go to any wars. They could enjoy the harvest of the land they had just received. The promised land was very fertile. As the Lord said, it was "a land flowing with milk and honey." After that, the Israelites would get everything they needed.
Joshua might have feared that the people may go away from the Lord when they live in prosperity. While challenging the Israelites to serve the Lord, Joshua reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Lord with his own family. Joshua did not let them go immediately when people responded, saying, "We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God” (v.18). Rather, he reminded them about who God was. Thus, Joshua led the Israelites to renew their commitment to serving the Lord. Because the Israelites' possession of the promised land was an act of God. As for Joshua, Israelites were to decide on whom they would serve. We, too, need the same commitment to serving the Lord.
Application: Generally, people do not seek God desperately all the time, as they seek him in their times of need. I should remember God even when I have everything that I need. I must serve the Lord faithfully at all times. My God is the greatest blessing I may have on this earth. So, I will serve the Lord.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for all the blessings you give in my life. Lord, you are sufficient to guide me always. Instead of keeping my eyes on the blessings, help me to fix my eyes on you to know more about you. I want to serve you, oh God! Help me to live as a faithful servant who obeys you always. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 105
Scripture: Psalm 106: 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin. 44 Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45 for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented.
Observation: In the history of the Israelites, one thing that catches our attention is their repeated disobedience against God, even after they saw all the wondrous works of the Lord. However, when in their distress, they cried out to the Lord God, he saved them by remembering his covenantal promise. When we read about their rebellious acts that they started right from the beginning of their Exodus journey, we may wonder how these people could ever forget all of God's marvelous deeds done to the Pharaoh and the people of Egypt! When they rebelled against God, as we read here, "they wasted away in their sin." Disobedience to God is a sin.
God saves us when we call him for his help. However, when we allow sin to creep into our lives, it makes havoc on us. When we realize our mistakes and ask God for his help to deliver us from the unpleasant things we invited to come upon us by disobeying God, he remembers his covenant and hears our prayers. His great love protects us from any dangers. Because the Lord is good, his love endures forever. How many times did Israelites sin against God? How many times did God save them! Many times, indeed!
Application: When I read about the repeated disobedience of Israelites, I could easily judge them as unfaithful and ungrateful to God. However, when I think of my shortcomings in serving God and my disobedience to his word, I may find myself worse than the Israelites in obeying God's word. When I am trapped in sin due to my disobedience, I must repent and call upon God for his salvation. The sooner I come to God, the sooner I can experience his deliverance in my life. He is great in love. "His love has no limits, His grace has no measure." His love is covenantal love. I should remember the covenant of God and keep myself away from anything that could lead me to disobey him. How many times did he rescue me! How many times shall I praise God! Many times.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your great love for me. Help me to realize my sins, if any. Instead of hiding myself in the darkness, help me to come to you with repentance. Thank you for answering my prayers. Lord, I praise you for all the mighty works you have done so many times in my life. "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 106
Scripture: Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
Observation: Jesus' sending of seventy-two of his followers with clear instructions is exclusively recorded in the Gospel of Luke. In the previous chapter, we read that Jesus sent his twelve disciples with similar instructions (Lk.9:1,2). When Jesus sent his disciples two by two, he restricted them to go only to the lost sheep of Israel (Mt.10:5, 6). Here, these seventy-two people had no such restrictions. They could go wherever Jesus wanted them to go. The main thing here is the emphasis on the need for more workers to go to the harvest field. So, Jesus told them to pray that the Lord of harvest may send more workers for his harvest. Finally, Jesus sent them to be the workers for the harvest.
Even today, we see the same need in the Christian mission fields. Because this harvest is not a seasonal one. We can see it throughout the year and throughout the world. However, "the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." We must realize the needs of the Kingdom of God and should pray for it. If the Lord wants to send us to the harvest field, we should be prepared to GO without saying any excuses. This harvest field could be the area we presently live in or a nearby place, or it maybe a place afar. Whatever it may be, we need to ask the Lord to send more workers, and we should be ready to do our part in it.
Application: I must realize that there is a need for more workers to collect the harvest. Jesus wants me to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send more workers. Praying for Christian missions and praying for souls to be saved and gathered in the Church is important to me. When I pray for the harvest, I should be ready to do what the Lord asks me instead of finding easy alternatives. When I obey God, I will see great things in and through my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for turning my attention to praying for the harvest. Lord, I realize the need for more workers for the harvest of souls. I pray that more Christian workers will go and share the Gospel with the unreached people groups. Lord, help me to understand my role in this great cause. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 107
Scripture: Luke 10: 29 But he (an expert in the law) wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Observation: Here, we see the underlying question that Jesus answered through the parable of the good Samaritan. The expert of the Law knew about who his God was. However, as a Jew, he may have struggled to understand the word "neighbor." Since the word "neighbor" does not point to a particular person, people may think it is ambiguous. In those days, even within the Jewish community, there were divisions and infights based on their beliefs. So, loving a fellow Jew itself had a lot of connotations.
In this context, Jesus helped an expert of the Law in a simple but powerful way to understand "who might be a neighbor?" through the parable of the Good Samaritan. A man, most likely a Jew, was severely beaten up by the robbers as he was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. However, a priest and a Levite who had a high reputation among the Jews were not willing to help him. Instead of helping the man, they simply "passed by on the other side." But, a Samaritan, who was from a community that Jews hated and considered as low, showed mercy to the wounded man. His act of kindness went beyond the social norms of the day. Jesus conveyed a clear message that helped the expert of the Law to understand the answer to his question.
The important thing here is not about understanding "who might be our neighbor." Instead, we need to show kindness to our neighbor, like the good Samaritan. Let us remember: this is something that we must do to inherit eternal life.
Application: Many Christians are ready to do anything for the Lord. However, many of them do not show similar enthusiasm for loving and helping others. They may have their own reasons for that. However, Jesus is the Good Samaritan. The message of the Good Samaritan story is that I should be a good Samaritan to the people in need. Without any partiality and discrimination, I need to show love to others just as I love myself. Irrespective of religion, race, caste, gender, and color, I should show the love of God to all people. Other than me, all the others are my neighbors.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for helping me to understand who my neighbor is and what I should do to him/her. Loving Lord, help me to show Christly love to my neighbors. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 108
Scripture: Luke 11: 1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
Observation: In Jesus' life, prayer was inseparable. Jesus had a regular prayer life. The Gospel tells us of the occasions of his short prayers (for e.g., Jn.11:41,42) as well as the times he spent in prayer for the whole night or alone (Mt. 14:23; Mk.1:35; Lk.5:16, 6:12). In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught about prayer regarding how to pray and how not to pray (Mt. 6:5-15). Jesus' prayer life impacted his disciples' lives. Here we see one such thing. We do not know how long they waited for Jesus to finish his prayer. But as they were waiting for Jesus, they would have seen how Jesus prayed. They also may have wanted to pray like Jesus. So, one of his disciples asked him, "Lord, teach us to pray." Notice the request here: He was not asking Jesus to teach a prayer so that he could use it in times of need. Rather, he asked Jesus to teach them "to pray," not a prayer.
One may expect that Jesus would have taught us how to spend more time in prayer or how to pray for a long time. But Jesus taught them a short prayer. This model prayer gives an outline to praying. After this, in the next nine verses (Lk.11:5-13), Jesus interpreted the first-word phrase he taught, "Father"- how good the Father is and about his spiritual gifts. This passage also emphasizes and encourages us to pray fervently.
Application: Jesus' prayer life is the perfect example for every Christian. His busy life schedule did not prevent him from praying. He did not teach his disciples about how to spend more time in prayer. But he showed them that through his life of prayer. As a disciple of Jesus, I want to pray like him. In my prayer, my focus should be on God the Father and his spiritual gifts, not any material blessings. For he knows what I need even before I ask. Prayer is not about asking for worldly things we need but about spending time with God. Then, time will be no matter.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to pray, through your life and words. Instead of making excuses about finding time to pray, help me follow you to have a regular prayer life. May your Holy Spirit enable me "to pray" every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 109
Scripture: Luke 11:39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?
Observation: When Jesus was in the house of a Pharisee, before the Pharisee served him the meal, Jesus wanted to teach him an important lesson related to the practice of Pharisees. It appears that Jesus deliberately did not wash his hands. When the Pharisees were looking at him in surprise as Jesus did not wash his hands, Jesus also told him about the importance of cleaning the inside part. A cup that is cleaned only on the outside part may look nice. However, if it is not washed thoroughly in and out, it would be unfit to use, no matter how costly or beautiful it is. People would notice only the outer part. We see various cultures across the globe give importance to external cleaning. But Jesus made it clear that God first sees our hearts rather than our outward cleanliness.
Application: People say cleanliness is next to godliness. However, they mostly speak about outward cleanliness and are reluctant to speak about inward cleanliness. But Jesus always speaks about the cleanliness of the heart. For Jesus, what comes from the heart is what makes a person unclean and defiles him (Mk.7:20). So, I should give importance to keeping my heart pure and clean rather than focusing on outward cleanliness.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for this important lesson about cleanliness. Lord, thank you for your blood that purifies my heart from all sin. Help me to walk in your light and truth. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 110
Scripture: Psalm 111: 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Observation: The Bible says about two kinds of fear: fear of God and fear of men. The fear of the Lord marks the beginning of wisdom. But, the fear of men will be a snare (Pro.29:25). Since wisdom helps a person to appropriately use his/her knowledge for the needs of life, people desire to have wisdom. To acquire wisdom, people are ready to take any risks. There are thousands of books already published related to wisdom. However, all who want to get wisdom through their education and experience do not get it.
Here, the psalmist says about one of the easiest ways that have a 100% success rate to get wisdom. i.e. the fear of the Lord. "The fear of the Lord" does not mean that we should always be afraid of God. Rather, as we read in Psalm 19:7-9, the fear of the Lord also refers to "the law...the statutes...the precepts....the commands....(and) the decrees of the Lord." When we have the fear of the Lord, we will have a good understanding. People may say different things, mostly negative things, about the fear of God. The fear of the Lord not only gives us wisdom but also helps us to get everything that we need in this life. The amazing fact about this wisdom is that anyone could get it from the Lord, irrespective of their age.
Application: Jesus plainly said, "I will warn you whom to fear" (Lk.12:5). I do not need to fear any men, except God. Fearing men always leads to chaos and confusions. Because, it does not merely end with fears. Fearing men could invite/cause so many troubles and complications in my life. On the other hand, when I have the fear of God, I get wisdom. And it gives me the understanding to handle any situation. My fear of the Lord does not indicate my weaknesses or worries of life. Rather, it shows my choice to get the required wisdom for my life. So, I have the fear of the Lord in my heart. It leads me to experience every blessing that the Lord has for me.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for making it easier to get the godly wisdom in my life. You give me wisdom. You are the wisdom. Lord, thank you for the good understanding that you give those who fear you. Help me live faithfully in the light of the wisdom you give me. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 111
Scripture: Luke 12: 54 He(Jesus) said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. 55 And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. 56 Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?
Observation: Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and many others often asked Jesus to show them a sign. Although they saw the miracles, teachings, and life of Jesus, they were asking for a sign because they did not want to accept Jesus. Here, Jesus questioned their failure in interpreting the present time. While they were good at interpreting "the appearance of the earth and the sky," they were not ready to understand their spiritual crisis. They turned a blind eye to the corruption of their religious leaders. They were more concerned about their tradition than the Word of God. They did not pay attention to all the signs that were given by prophets concerning the Messiah. Instead, they were showing their interest in interpreting clouds and winds. So, Jesus called them Hypocrites.
Many prophets, including Abraham, wanted to see the time when Jesus lived on earth. However, here, even after seeing Jesus directly, these people did not have the desire to see him as the promised Messiah. The "present time" mentioned here was a unique time in the history of men and was well attested by so many prophecies. It is important to discern the "present time" to understand the spiritual crisis of the time and to do the right thing that pleases God.
Application: In the modern and technologically advanced world, interpreting the seasons and forecasting the future of economic and social environments are easier with human-friendly technologies and innovations. However, in any given situation, whether physical or spiritual, understanding the "present time" is vital to deal with the issues of the time. I should not simply ignore and reject it. When I discern the "present time," I will see the presence of Jesus. Such a time as this, I should not spend my time and energy in unworthy things. Instead, I should focus on God to discern what he wants me to do now. It may be a small thing. However, it will be necessary and relevant to "this present time." It is my privileged responsibility to do something for God in the "present time."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your wake-up call to discern the present time of the world. Help me to understand the social and spiritual crises of today. Lord, give me your strength to do your will in my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 112
Scripture: Judges 16: 20 And she (Delilah) said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 And the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze shackles. And he ground at the mill in the prison.
Observation: The story of Samson's fall is a warning for us to check where we are and what we do. In Samson's life, we can see one of the major themes of the book of Judges i.e., a gradual decline of obedience to God and his commandments. As we all know, the beginning of Samson's story was wonderful. However, when he forgot his call and stayed in the wrong places to satisfy his sinful desires, he became a victim of his own actions. When Samson continued to stay and sleep to gratify his desires, his enemies were "lying in ambush" to capture him.
When the Philistines came to seize him, Samson said that he would win as he did before. "But he did not know that the Lord had left him." He might have tried to do all that he did before to escape from the enemies. He might have felt very bad about himself when he realized that the Lord was not with him. It was too late to escape. A mighty man who killed a lion with his bare hands was assigned to grind at the mill. However, it was not the end. When Samson prayed to the Lord, he regained his strength. but, he was no more to live in it.
Application: I may have some unique talents or special anointing of the Lord to do what others could not do. However, if I continually ignore the warnings and stay in the wrong places, thinking that I would get victory over sin easily whenever I want, the Lord would not be with me. When I read Samson's story, I know why it had happened to him. He was not with the Lord. In the Bible, we read about another man who also did not know what happened to him. It was Moses. When Moses came down from the Mount Sinai after spending time with the Lord, he did not know the radiance of his face. But others saw it (Exo.34:29,30). I want to spend time with the Lord, not sin anymore. Instead of sleeping at the lap of sin, I have promises of God to keep as my pillow. Now, I know what I should do!
Prayer: God, thank you that you know everything. You know the way that I should go. Thank you for your guiding words that say, “This is the way, walk in it." Lord, help me to listen to your words. Heavenly Father, give me your strength to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 113
Scripture: Luke 13: 23 Someone asked him (Jesus), “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, 24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.
Observation: Here, we see a genuine question from a follower of Jesus: “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” We also may have asked this question several times with the Lord on different occasions. We know the biblical teaching that God wants all people to be saved. However, when we look at Jesus' answer here, it appears that he tells something else instead of giving a straightforward answer to the questioner. When we read this question in its context, we understand that Jesus talks about how to be saved. God is more concerned about the quality of his people than the quantity of their numbers. Jesus' reference to the narrow door indicates about entering the kingdom of God through him. Jesus is " the way and the truth and the life" (Jn.14:6).
Does the narrow door mean that only a few people will be saved? Jews had a common belief that only a few would be saved. Just before this question, Jesus told the people about the parables of the Mustard seeds and the Yeast, in which Jesus compared the Kingdom of God with the mustard seed and the yeast (Lk.13:18-21). This parable gives us a glimpse of the influence and impact of the Kingdom of God among the people. In verse 29, Jesus says many people will come from all corners of the world to participate in the feast of the Kingdom of God. Certainly, many people will be saved. But the question is whether I am ready to enter through the narrow door.
Application: As a follower of Jesus Christ, my focus should be on entering through the door, not counting the number of people. While I follow Christ, I must commit to denying myself and carrying the cross daily. When I allow God to work in my life, so that God's kingdom can grow and permeate society, many people will come to know God and enter the Kingdom of God. I will make every effort to follow Jesus diligently.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for answering one of my heart’s questions. Lord, help me to take the narrow road that leads to life, instead of choosing the broad road that leads to destruction. May your Holy Spirit strengthen me to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 114
Scripture: Psalm 115: 17 It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence;18 it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore.
Observation: Although the last two verses of Psalm 115 appear disconnected from the other verses of the chapter, they convey an important message to us. In our present scenario, these verses are very relevant to us. We all know that a dead person cannot do anything. Nobody can escape from death. However, when we lose someone dear to us, we find it difficult to accept it. Some people have started to question God and his existence. During such times, we may hear taunting questions from within and without. One good thing we can do about a dead person is to praise God for his/her life. A dead person cannot do that. Only we who are alive can praise God. Does it make any sense?
When King Hezekiah recovered from his deadly sickness, he also said something similar to these verses (Isaiah 38:18,19). Our God is not dead, so we are alive. How about a person who is spiritually dead and has lost his relationship with God? They also cannot praise God until they set their things straight before God. A spiritually alive person will praise God, "both now and forevermore," irrespective of the environment.
Application: When I face taunting questions that could shake my faith in God, I should remember that my God is not dead. I need to realize that I worship the living God who has concern for me. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Heb. 13:8). He says, "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades" (Rev.1:18). Because he lives, I also will live (John 14:19). If I go through a spiritual dullness or find it difficult to praise God, I need to remember God. From my breathing to all I have in this world are from him. "What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?" As a living person, I will praise the Lord now and forever.
Prayer: Father, thank you for every blessing that you have given me. Above all, you are my God. You are the everlasting father. God, help me be thankful and praise you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 115
Scripture: Luke 14: 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Observation: In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus starts with a hyperbole (to emphasize his point, not to take its literal meaning) to explain the cost of being his disciple. In this passage, Jesus highlights three important things about being a disciple of him: 1) Loving Jesus more than any other person, 2) Carrying the cross (daily), 3) Willingness to give up everything for Christ' sake. Jesus says that a person who wants to build a tower would estimate the cost first, and a king who prepares his army for a battle would think about his army's strength compared to his enemy. Here, Jesus does not discourage a person from becoming his disciple. Rather, he encourages everyone to be his disciple.
A person who has not enough money and strength would not go for a building project and war, respectively. “In the same way,” those who consider (boast on) their strengths and power cannot be Jesus' disciples. He expects those who want to become his disciples should be ready to give up everything to follow him. Counting the cost here does not imply whether we are capable or worthy of following Christ. It places a challenge in front of us: are we ready for an absolute surrender to Christ?
Application: As a disciple of Jesus, I need to seek first God and his kingdom than anything else. This doesn't mean that I should hate my family and relatives. It shows my priority to God. To follow Jesus, I should be ready to carry the cross, i.e., to pay the price for it. A Christian life without the cross is a life without Christ. I must be willing to submit my all to Christ, keeping nothing for my own sake. Like Paul, "whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ," I want to say the same and live for Christ.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for making it easier to become your disciple. I can be your disciple by loving you with an absolute surrender. Help me to follow you every day with love and humility. You are my everything. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 116
Scripture: Luke 15:1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable:
Observation: In Luke 15, we see three parables that Jesus told to the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Sometimes, we forget why Jesus said these parables. Here we read that the tax collectors and sinners came to listen to Jesus' teaching. Whenever Jesus spent time with the sinners and tax collectors, he influenced them and changed their lives, which was never vice versa. The Gospel tells many such stories of transformation in the life of sinners. However, those who called themselves as guardians of the law did not understand Jesus' logic of welcoming the sinners. For them, he was doing something against the social norms of the day. The three parables we read in Luke 15 emphasize the joy and excitement of finding the lost ones. We can see a gradual increase in both the value of the lost and the joy in finding it or getting it back. Luke 15: 7 and10 tells us about the prevailing joy in heaven and among the angels when a sinner repents. The parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the joy of the father who was waiting for his son to return home.
Sometimes, when a notorious or undesirable person wants to come to Christ, do we show the same joy and excitement that we show when we find something we lost? Instead of expressing our happiness for their willingness to come to the Lord, we may express our fears and apprehensions. At times, we may question their motives as well. However, Jesus rejoices at the repentance of a sinner. As we see in the three parables of Jesus, the progressive expression of the joy of heaven, angels, and the Father reminds us that we should be ready to find and accept the lost ones.
Application: If the repentance of one sinner would cause "more rejoicing in heaven," how much more should I be happy about it! The eagerness of the shepherd to find a lost sheep, the woman's curiosity to find a lost coin, and the loving father who ran toward his lost son to accept him with a loving embrace all remind me how important it is to seek and save the lost. When a sinner comes to God with a repenting heart, it brings a smile on God's face. Then, the sinner's transformed life brings more joy to his family and his society (e.g., Zacchaeus). I should be open to receiving someone who wants to come to Christ, irrespective of his history. I should remember that "every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future." Finding the lost gives me more joy than when it was with me before I lost it. The only difference now is that I know its value.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your love to accept me when I came to you. As a sinner saved by your grace, help me to show your love and kindness to others who need your salvation. Lord, help me be involved in seeking the lost and sharing the joy with you in finding them. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 117
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Observation: There are many interpretations given for Psalm 118. However, in all the interpretations, one common thing is that this psalm was used as a thanksgiving song in Jewish prayers during their important festivals. Psalm 118 is a part of "Egyptian Hallel," which consists of 6 Psalms (Ps113-118) in Jewish liturgy. The psalmist remembers God's deliverance from his enemies and expresses his thanksgiving to the Lord. "This very day" in verse 24 alludes to the day God made the rejected stone as the cornerstone. God can make a person who is considered as unworthy become an indispensable person.
One thing that we need to remember every day is, "This is the day that the Lord has made." Our situations, struggles, problems, jobs, positions etc. differ from one another. Being happy today is very important in our life. When we remember God's past deliverance, we can thank God for today and be happy about it. Our life situations will not be the same forever. God wants us to be happy every day, regardless of our situation. Our rejoicing today is a prelude to our deliverance tomorrow. Our dependence on God keeps us happy, not our life situations.
Application: God has done so many amazing things in my life. I thank God for his faithfulness in lifting me up to the present situation. As the psalmist says, "I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done" (v.17). This day, this minute, and even this very second I breathe are God-given gifts to me. I cannot get it back If I miss it. I may be unhappy about my past life, but I can be happy today. Instead of looking at my present situation, when I remember God, I can be happy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance you give me. Thank you for your enduring love. Help me to be happy today. Lord, you are the source of my joy and strength. Help me to depend on you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 118
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Observation: There are many interpretations given for Psalm 118. However, in all the interpretations, one common thing is that this psalm was used as a thanksgiving song in Jewish prayers during their important festivals. Psalm 118 is a part of "Egyptian Hallel," which consists of 6 Psalms (Ps113-118) in Jewish liturgy. The psalmist remembers God's deliverance from his enemies and expresses his thanksgiving to the Lord. "This very day" in verse 24 alludes to the day God made the rejected stone as the cornerstone. God can make a person who is considered as unworthy become an indispensable person.
One thing that we need to remember every day is, "This is the day that the Lord has made." Our situations, struggles, problems, jobs, positions etc. differ from one another. Being happy today is very important in our life. When we remember God's past deliverance, we can thank God for today and be happy about it. Our life situations will not be the same forever. God wants us to be happy every day, regardless of our situation. Our rejoicing today is a prelude to our deliverance tomorrow. Our dependence on God keeps us happy, not our life situations.
Application: God has done so many amazing things in my life. I thank God for his faithfulness in lifting me up to the present situation. As the psalmist says, "I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done" (v.17). This day, this minute, and even this very second I breathe are God-given gifts to me. I cannot get it back If I miss it. I may be unhappy about my past life, but I can be happy today. Instead of looking at my present situation, when I remember God, I can be happy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance you give me. Thank you for your enduring love. Help me to be happy today. Lord, you are the source of my joy and strength. Help me to depend on you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 118
Scripture: Deuteronomy 27: 9 Then Moses and the Levitical priests said to all Israel, “Be silent, Israel, and listen! You have now become the people of the Lord your God. 10 Obey the Lord your God and follow his commands and decrees that I give you today.”
Observation: In Deuteronomy 27 and 28, we see a list of blessings and curses that would come upon the Israelites based on their obedience to the Lord and his commands. Some people think that these two chapters give more verses on curses than on God's blessings. When we read these chapters, we understand that these blessings or curses will be the results of either obedience or disobedience, respectively. When we look at the sentences that start with "If," we understand how it is connected with the command of God that we read in Deut.27:10. Although the Israelites became the people of God a long time ago, here we read that "You have now become the people of the Lord....Obey the Lord..today." This event must have renewed the covenant and reaffirmed the Israelites' commitment to the Lord. In the loud and noisy environment of the world, we may not be able to hear what the Lord expects from us. O my soul, be silent and listen to what the Lord speaks to you today.
Application: Obedience to the Lord and following his commands always brings forth all the blessings of the earth and heaven. What I do decides what I will get in my life! If I obey God, I will see all the blessings in my life. However, the greatest blessing is that I belong to God. I am one among the people of the Lord my God. Every day, I need to remind myself of this and look at God to know what areas he expects me to obey today. As a child of God, I choose to obey him and follow his commands every day of my life. This is my choice!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for remembering me and renewing your loving relationship every day. You are concerned about my day-to-day life. Lord, help me to obey and follow your commands today. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 90
Scripture: Psalm 91: 9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
Observation: Psalm 91 is one of the most used psalms by believers who trust and seek God's protection. God's place is a safe haven. However, a person starts to experience God's protection when s/he openly proclaims his/her trust in God. Those who make God their refuge live a protected life from the attacks of enemies and diseases. Whether it is a day or a night, a person protected by God will not be affected by enemies and diseases like a wicked person. When we say God is our safe haven, we experience both spiritual and physical protection. How much more protected we are! Seeking God's protection and the protection that God gives us, they both are acts of LOVE.
Application: When I say I trust God, it is not an expression of my weaknesses or incompetence. Instead, I express my love and trust in God. When the most high God is ready to offer his shelter to me, I can find no better place to live than it, for he gives me the best protection that goes beyond any human comprehension. Sometimes, I may not be able to explain how God protects me. But I can experience his protection every day, with the peace he gives.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my refuge and my fortress. Nothing can harm me when I am under your protection. Even if I have to go through tough times, you will help me come out victoriously because you love me. Lord, help me to love and trust you better every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 91
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31: 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Observation: In Deuteronomy chapter 31, when Moses was giving his final instruction to Joshua to lead the Israelites, we see the repeated occurrence of the phrase "Be strong and courageous" (v. 7,8, 23). Moses would not be there to lead the people into the promised land. Moses was aware that his earthly life would come to an end soon. But God is always available to lead his people. When leaders change, or God's people face an attack or threats from enemies, God encourages his people by saying, "Be strong and courageous" (Josh.1, 1 Ch.22:13, 2 Ch. 32:7). Godly people need not worry or be afraid about the future. Because, as we see in the bible passages mentioned here, God always goes with his people. God never leaves his people nor forsakes them. No matter what challenges or dangers are ahead of us; God comes with us. He wants us to be confident to face them without any fear. With God's ever presence with us, we can "be strong and courageous."
Application: When I face difficult times of my life, when I fear about the changes that are taking place in my life, when I encounter great challenges in my life, and when I am about to enter a new place or start a new thing, I should remember that God is with me and he would never forsake me. Instead of worrying and fearing about the future, I need to "be strong and courageous" by remembering God's constant presence with me. My fears and worries do not help me. They could collapse my strength and peace. God comes with me, and he is the source of my strength and courage.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unchanging love in the changing world. As I enter a new day or a new phase of my life, help me remember that you are with me. My God, irrespective of the situation I face, give me the required strength to walk with you in all of my life, to "be strong and courageous." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 92
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33: 29 Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights."
Observation: This is the concluding verse of the final blessing of Moses, the man of God, to the Israelites. When Moses saw the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, how the Lord protected the Israelites and provided their needs during the forty years of the wilderness journey, he said in astonishment, "Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you." They are unique because there is no one like their God (v.26). He is the eternal God! As we see here, God's protection, providence, and victory are not just things of the past. He will continue to provide his help till his people win against their enemies. As long as his people live under God's rule, they will live safely. The people of God are indeed blessed!
Application: When others talk about the blessedness of my life, I should remember that it is God who provides all that I need and protects me. My God is worthy of praise and worship. The God of heaven has given me the privilege of being one among his people. When the Lord himself is my shield and helper, how much should I cooperate with him to do his will for my life! Living with God is something that is really unique and an unparalleled blessing.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your amazing grace that saves me. You care for my every need. Thank you for your provision. I praise you for your protection thus far. My savior, help me today to enjoy the blessedness of living under your care and safety with joy and contentment. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 93
Scripture: Psalm 94: 12 Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law.
Observation: In Psalm 94, we read about two types of people and how the Lord disciplines them. The wicked people who do not fear God and do evil deeds are warned of the Lord's punishment. On the other hand, psalm 94 says of the blessedness of the righteous person whom God disciplines (v.12-19). While the evildoers receive warnings about their punishment, God disciplines his people to correct them to live according to his word. He does this to help the person he disciplines to understand the Scripture and know what God wants to do with him/her. We should know that God disciplines us for our good (Heb.12:10). It may be unpleasant for a while until we understand God's intended purposes. Here is a reminder: when God disciplines us, he helps, supports, consoles, and sends his relief. "For the Lord will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance" (v.14).
Application: When God disciplines me, I should turn my attention to God's word to know what changes he expects from me instead of complaining about the difficulties. When God disciplines, he prunes and purifies me. I need to understand that God does this because he loves me. When I allow God to discipline me, how precious it would be! Having the best teacher on my side is the privilege of the Christian life. When I correct myself based on the Lord's teaching, I get a clear picture of his will for my life.
Prayer: Lord, you are the great teacher who helps your children to walk in your way, according to your word. You want me to be holy, like you. Oh, my heavenly teacher, help me to understand your love and give me the wisdom to obey your words. Lord, help me today to be with you and to understand your words. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 94
Scripture: Luke 4:5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours." 8 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'"
Observation: After forty days of fasting, Jesus was hungry. He must have been physically tired and weak. Here we read how Satan tried to spoil the purpose of Jesus' incarnation with various means. Satan was able to show the whole world instantly in his attempt to tempt Jesus. This might have been a mental or spiritual vision. With a condition, Satan was ready to give his authority over all the world to Jesus. Satan's tempting condition was that Jesus should worship him. Jesus could have gained power and authority over the earth without dying on the cross. But he did not do it because it was against the very purpose of His mission to redeem the whole world. Jesus responded to him with the Word of God and said, 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.' In Matthew 4:10, Jesus immediately responded, "Away from me, Satan!"
How many Christians who went through similar temptations had lost their call in pursuit of worldly possessions, positions, and power! They think that some small compromises are not big sins, and God would understand their situation. We need to understand that anything that stops us from worshipping God or entices us to worship something else is actually not from God. Notice how Jesus used the Scripture passage when he responded to Satan. When Peter did not understand about the crucifixion and rebuked Jesus, Jesus told him, "You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns" (Mt.16:23). "Today, if only you would hear his voice, 'Do not harden your hearts'" (Ps.95:8).
Application: Satan wants all people to worship him. He tempts every person to turn their attention away from God. When I face such temptations of gaining worldly things, the first thing I need to do is to check whether it is from God or not. For God does not tempt anyone (Jam.1:13). Sometimes, my lust for certain things may mislead me. Secondly, I should be aware that the devil is "a liar and the father of lies" (Jn.8:44). Then, without giving even a foothold to Satan, I should boldly proclaim what the Word of God says. As Paul writes to Ephesians, the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit (Eph.6:17).
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to stand against evil temptations and to worship God alone. I cannot serve two masters. Dear God, help me to recognize anything that hinders me from worshipping you. Lord, give me your strength today to prioritize the concerns of God and live accordingly. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 95
Scripture: Psalm 96: 9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.
Observation: Since Psalm 96 closely resembles 1 Chronicles 16:23-33, some say that it was written by David. This psalm first encourages its readers and hearers to sing and praise God. Secondly, it gives reasons to praise and worship God. Thirdly, it gives a unique picture of how to worship God! This distinguishes the key difference between the worship of God Yahweh and idol worship. In Hebrew, the phrase "in the splendor of his holiness" may refer to more than one meaning. Some may think that whether it says about the holiness of God or the holy clothing of a person who worships God. There is no doubt about God's holiness. He is the Holy God. This makes him unique among all gods. However, what makes him even more unique is that he expects us to worship "in the splendor of his holiness."
Holy God expects holy worship! How we come before God really matters to him. Does this mean that we cannot worship God if we are not holy! NO. God repeatedly says, "I am the Lord, who makes you holy." All we need is to acknowledge our true state before him and ask him for forgiveness with true repentance. He purifies us so that we can worship God. How do we come to worship God?
Application: I hear a lot of Christian songs that help me sing and praise God almighty. Praising and singing about God are good starters to worship God. However, God is pleased with the worship that is made "in the splendor of his holiness." No other ornamentation or clothing pleases God more than holy worship. I should not say that "I am not a holy person, so I will not worship God." He removes my fears and makes me holy when I come before him with godly fear. He is able!
Prayer: Father God, you are the Holy One of Israel! You want me to be holy, just as you are. Holy God, discipline me so that I may partake in your holiness. It is not just when I come before you, but help me always lead a holy life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 96
Scripture: Luke 5: 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
Observation: When we read Luke 5:8, we may wonder what Peter saw at that moment! Peter, a professional fisherman, must have been surprised when Jesus told him, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch." Fishermen prefer to fish early in the morning or at nighttime, for it is the best time to catch fish. It is unusual that Peter and his men caught nothing here, even after they tried all night. However, when he let down the nets in obedience to Jesus' words, he saw something fresh about Jesus. Obviously, it was not the first time he had been with Jesus. Until then, Peter may have known Jesus as a carpenter's son from Nazareth, or a teacher, or a miracle worker, and so on. When he saw the abundance of fish in their nets, he must have understood that Jesus was more than any other person in the world.
When people realize the nearness of God, they become aware of their real sinful state and unworthiness to stand close to him. When Isaiah saw God, he became conscious of his actual state in front of the Holy God (Is.6:5). Notice what Peter did: "He fell at Jesus' knees" and said, "Lord." In other words, as soon as he realized that all his skills and traits were nothing before Jesus, he surrendered to Jesus. See the difference in how Peter called Jesus - Master Jesus became the Lord Jesus. After that, Jesus made him a fisher of men. After this incident, he and his friends left their nets to be with Jesus permanently. They were no longer occasional visitors to Jesus. Afterward, they began to follow Jesus closely wherever he went.
Application: When I come near to Jesus, when I have a personal encounter with Jesus, I get a clear picture of who Jesus is and who I am! Seeing Jesus in the distance or meeting him once in a while would give me a respectable understanding of Jesus. Some people do not want to come near Jesus because they want to avoid exposure about their true state. Instead, they maintain a distance from Jesus and marvel at him. I should not do this. Until I allow him to come close to me or go near him, I will miss an excellent opportunity to know him better and personally and realize my true being. When I realize that Jesus is my Lord, my life is transformed totally. Then, I become a new person by living with him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for continually giving me many opportunities to come near you, though I am not worthy to come before you. Thank you for your call that changes me as your follower and a disciple. Lord, help me stay close to you today and know more about you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 97
Scripture: Luke 5: 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better.'”
Observation: When we look at the context of Luke 5:38, 39, we see the questions and doubts raised against Jesus and his disciples. Against the common Jewish practice of that time, Jesus dined with sinners and tax collectors. Pharisees called Jesus a friend of sinners. They raised questions concerning the practice of Jesus' disciples about fasting and prayer and compared it with the practice of the disciples of John and the Pharisees. John lived an ascetic life with simple food (Mt.3:4). His disciples may have learned about fasting from him as an act of repentance. Moreover, John was in prison. So, his disciples may have fasted for his release. Pharisees practiced a strict religious life with a list of so many do's and don'ts. This includes regular fasting (Lk.18:12). In the Pentateuch, we read about many festivals according to the law of Moses. Israelites were not commanded to fast regularly except on the day of atonement (Lev.16:29).
Here, did Jesus say anything against fasting? NO. In fact, he himself fasted (Matthew 4); In his Sermon on the Mount, he spoke about the spiritual benefit of voluntary fasting (Matthew 6). The major difference between Jesus' ministry and others was that Jesus preached a new way of living that embraced all and gave hope to those who accepted him, irrespective of their background. The way he chose his disciples, his love for sinners and tax collectors, and his teaching were completely different from the customs of those days. Pharisees and the disciples of John did not understand it. So, Jesus explained the newness of his teaching and ministry with a double parable. The Gospel of Jesus offers a fresh vision for our life. We should not try to mix it with our old customs. Unlike the Pharisees, who were not ready to change their perception, we need to be open-minded to accept Jesus' teaching and live accordingly.
Application:* Jesus wants me to have a fresh look at my life. He wants to change the way I look at others. Instead of judging others, I need to show Christ's love to all. I should not hesitate to go near the people who are hated by society. They, too, need God's love and the Gospel. I should be ready to follow Jesus and his footsteps, not the customs of the world.
Prayer: Jesus, though you hated sins and lived a holy life on the earth, you were a friend of sinners, gave them an opportunity to come to God, and transformed their lives. You have changed me in many things. However, as a child of God, I need to become like you. Lord, help me to live and to speak just like you. Jesus, help me to lead the new life of following you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 98
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 100: 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Observation: Psalm 100 invites all people to come and praise God. Some may think, why should we praise God? This short psalm precisely mentions some of the important reasons to praise God. First of all, the Lord is the God. There is no one like him. We need to know him as the God. Not only that, he is the creator who made us. "we are his people, the sheep of his pasture" (v.3). Is this not enough to praise God! The Psalm lists a few more reasons to praise the Lord. He is the good God. His love is enduring love forever. Look at his faithfulness! It does not end with us. His faithfulness continues through all generations. The Bible testifies to God's continual faithfulness. What more reason do we need to praise the Lord! Shall we enter (this day) his gates with thanksgiving and praise?
Application: I find no difficulty in praising God when everything goes smoothly. However, when I go through failures, frustrations, and disappointments, and when I do not get what I want, sometimes, I feel as if there is no reason to praise God. It happens only when I look at my situation. In such times, I need to look upon my creator God and know he cares for me. I belong to him. He is the good God whose love endures forever. God is good all the time! I may not know the reason for my present situation. But, it should not be a hindrance to praise God. If my current situation does not motivate me to praise God, I can think of God's faithfulness in the last hundred days of my life. How many amazing things he has done to me in this period! What can stop me from praising God!
Prayer: Good God, thank you for your enduring love for me. Thank you for the promise of your never-ending faithfulness. Lord God, I praise you with all my heart. No words can fully express my heart that praises you! Help me today to enter your presence with thanksgiving and with a heart of praise. Hallelujah, Praise ye the Lord. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 100
Scripture: Luke 7: 6 So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
Observation: Here, we see another instance that amazed Jesus. Nevertheless, this time, the faith of the centurion amazed Jesus. In the earlier incident, we read that Jesus was amazed at the lack of faith of his hometown people (Mt.6:6). As compared to the brief account of Matthew, Luke gives more information about the Centurion story. It was a common practice in the ancient Middle East to send intermediaries to speak for someone. These mediators' words were considered the words of the person who sent them. In this Gospel narrative, notably, two things draw our attention.
First, the centurion understood his worthiness to come before Jesus. It explains his respect for Jesus and his unworthiness to stand before the Lord. This is possibly a reference to his moral and sinful state. He did not consider his high position in the Roman military, his wealthy status, and his social acceptance as an eligibility to come before Jesus. Secondly, and importantly, as a man of authority, he had a better understanding of the power of Jesus’ words. He didn't even ask Jesus to heal his servant but asked him to say a word. He believed the word of Jesus was powerful enough to heal his servant.
This was a spectacular miracle that a person who was far away from Jesus received his healing through the power of his word. It was an unusual miracle! We need to take note of the centurion's understanding of his worthiness and the power of the word of authority. Jesus' word has everything we need. It is powerful!
Application: When I ask myself a question that whether I am worthy to come before Jesus, I understand that I could come before Jesus only by his grace and love, not because of any merits I earned. My money, social status, and powerful position do not make me worthy to stand before the Holy God. When I humble myself and confess my unworthiness to stand before God, HE sees it. I will see miracles in my life when I understand the power of Jesus' words. My faith and the lack of my faith both could amaze Jesus. I want Jesus to see my faith in him and his words.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for helping me understand my actual state and the power of your words. You show no partiality with anyone. Help me be humble and seek your word for my life situations. Lord, say the word for my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 101
Scripture: Psalm 102: 17 He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea.
Observation: Psalm 102 is "a prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord." The intense pain and depression of the psalmist's distressing situation are described in verses 3-11. As the psalmist thought that he was on the brink of death, he remembered God and expressed his hope in him. The eternal God never rejects a prayer of a person in great need. God listens, responds, and answers the prayer of an afflicted person. When the psalmist saw God during the time of his sorrowful state, he understood that God’s love endures forever. Though heaven and earth may change, God never changes but remains the same. Like the psalmist, when we go through affliction, we need to remember our everlasting and eternal God, who never changes. He will answer our prayers. He will change our misery. When we look upon the unchanging God, we understand that our present (distressing) situation is not permanent. For the Lord God will not despise our plea.
Application: When I face uncertainty, depression, loneliness, grief, fears, and taunts, I need to look upon God instead of seeing my situations. God is my hope in such difficult times. Though no one helps me, God will take care of me. He answers my prayer. In the changing world, God never changes. I put my trust in God. I will seek his face when I face any distress.
Prayer: Everlasting God, thank you for helping me to understand who you are. In a world that is filled with uncertainties, Lord, you are my hope. Help me to remain in you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 102
Scripture: Luke 8: 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”
Observation: Some Christians misunderstand this passage (Luke 8:17-18) and question whether God would take away what we have. However, when we read the passage in its context, we can understand what Jesus tells us. In Luke 8, we read that Jesus interpreted the meaning of the 'Parable of the Sower' to his disciples. Jesus told them about four types of people who hear the Word of God. There is no mystery in the Gospel of Jesus. Jesus wants to reveal the secret of God's kingdom and make it known to all. Truth cannot be concealed in a clay jar. Those who accept the truth see the light and become a light that removes the darkness of the world. Truth should be kept on a lampstand so that all who come to light may benefit from it. Verse 17 suggests that all the secrets will be revealed to us.
The key verse in this passage is, "therefore consider carefully how you listen." How we listen to the Word matters to God. The Parable of the Sower is not just about the seeds that fell on different grounds. It says of different persons who heard God's word. Not all who listen to the Word of God will be saved and produce multi-fold results. Those who keep God's word in the right place will get the desired results. Others, they would lose even what they think they have. Notice the words and understand the differences. They do not have the word, but they think they have it. Because they did not give an appropriate place for the Word of God, it will be taken from them.
Application: Jesus not only likes to reveal the secret truths about God and the Kingdom of God. He wants me to understand the truth and give light to others by sharing it with them. It is not about how bright I am or how far my light goes. Instead, it is about how carefully I listen to the Word of God and put it in the right place for its growth and for a fruitful harvest. Merely listening to the Word of God is not enough, but when I obey God's word, I can expect God's results (James 1:22-25). Although listening to the Word of God is important, it would not be complete without putting it into practice.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for explaining the truth, which helps me understand the secrets of the Kingdom of God. Help me listen to your words carefully and practice them every day diligently. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 103
"What is your name?" - A simple question that may reveal legion of things!
Read: Joshua 21,22; Psalm 104; Luke 8:26-56
Scripture: Luke 8: 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.
Observation: Here we see a man who was in a terrible condition of demon possession. He was uncontrollable by chains, as he was under the control of the demon. Though he was alive, he lived in tombs. However, when he saw Jesus, all the control of the demon started to crumble at Jesus' feet. When Jesus asked his name, the demons that lived in him responded to Jesus. They had such control over him. It was certainly not a single demon. There was a legion of demons in him. In the Roman army, the term legion would refer to a division of 6000 men. This man was possessed by a large number of demons. All these demons were so afraid of Jesus. But, Jesus was concerned about the deliverance of the man. When the people of the area came to see what had happened, they saw the same demon-possessed man "sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind" (v.35). The man wanted to follow Jesus. But Jesus told the man to return to his home to testify what God has done to him. Interestingly, this man witnessed what Jesus did to him to the whole town.
Application: When somebody asks my name, how would it be if someone else gives an answer instead of me. If that unknown person lives in me and would speak forcefully on behalf of me without my permission, certainly my life will be in a mess. Isn't it? The man we see in Luke 8 had many demons in him. I may not live in such a demon-controlled life. However, at times, particularly when I am provoked to do something, or when I face sinful temptations, I notice that instead of me, some things within me try to use the situation to take a control and to enslave me. It may be my anger or my bitter past experiences or my self or my weaknesses and so on. When things go out of control, I need to fall at the feet of Jesus. The number of things that disturbs me is not a matter to Jesus. There is no better place to deal with such things than the feet of Jesus. When I sit with him, I find peace and the right mindset. I am with Jesus. I belong to Jesus. I will not live as a living dead, but will live as a living testimony of Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for delivering people from the control of demons. You are my savior. I live in your care. If any known or unknown things try to take control of my life, help me to bring it to your feet. Thank you for giving me the peace that transcends all understanding. Lord Jesus, guard my heart and my thoughts. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 104
Scripture: Joshua 24: 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Observation: The Bible tells us about the final words of many great men of God. In Joshua 24, we see Joshua's final speech with the Israelites. After briefly recapitulating what the Lord has done to the Israelites, Joshua challenged the people to serve the Lord. At that time, Israelites were living in the promised land, which God won for them. They did not need to go to any wars. They could enjoy the harvest of the land they had just received. The promised land was very fertile. As the Lord said, it was "a land flowing with milk and honey." After that, the Israelites would get everything they needed.
Joshua might have feared that the people may go away from the Lord when they live in prosperity. While challenging the Israelites to serve the Lord, Joshua reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Lord with his own family. Joshua did not let them go immediately when people responded, saying, "We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God” (v.18). Rather, he reminded them about who God was. Thus, Joshua led the Israelites to renew their commitment to serving the Lord. Because the Israelites' possession of the promised land was an act of God. As for Joshua, Israelites were to decide on whom they would serve. We, too, need the same commitment to serving the Lord.
Application: Generally, people do not seek God desperately all the time, as they seek him in their times of need. I should remember God even when I have everything that I need. I must serve the Lord faithfully at all times. My God is the greatest blessing I may have on this earth. So, I will serve the Lord.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for all the blessings you give in my life. Lord, you are sufficient to guide me always. Instead of keeping my eyes on the blessings, help me to fix my eyes on you to know more about you. I want to serve you, oh God! Help me to live as a faithful servant who obeys you always. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 105
Scripture: Psalm 106: 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin. 44 Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45 for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented.
Observation: In the history of the Israelites, one thing that catches our attention is their repeated disobedience against God, even after they saw all the wondrous works of the Lord. However, when in their distress, they cried out to the Lord God, he saved them by remembering his covenantal promise. When we read about their rebellious acts that they started right from the beginning of their Exodus journey, we may wonder how these people could ever forget all of God's marvelous deeds done to the Pharaoh and the people of Egypt! When they rebelled against God, as we read here, "they wasted away in their sin." Disobedience to God is a sin.
God saves us when we call him for his help. However, when we allow sin to creep into our lives, it makes havoc on us. When we realize our mistakes and ask God for his help to deliver us from the unpleasant things we invited to come upon us by disobeying God, he remembers his covenant and hears our prayers. His great love protects us from any dangers. Because the Lord is good, his love endures forever. How many times did Israelites sin against God? How many times did God save them! Many times, indeed!
Application: When I read about the repeated disobedience of Israelites, I could easily judge them as unfaithful and ungrateful to God. However, when I think of my shortcomings in serving God and my disobedience to his word, I may find myself worse than the Israelites in obeying God's word. When I am trapped in sin due to my disobedience, I must repent and call upon God for his salvation. The sooner I come to God, the sooner I can experience his deliverance in my life. He is great in love. "His love has no limits, His grace has no measure." His love is covenantal love. I should remember the covenant of God and keep myself away from anything that could lead me to disobey him. How many times did he rescue me! How many times shall I praise God! Many times.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your great love for me. Help me to realize my sins, if any. Instead of hiding myself in the darkness, help me to come to you with repentance. Thank you for answering my prayers. Lord, I praise you for all the mighty works you have done so many times in my life. "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 106
Scripture: Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
Observation: Jesus' sending of seventy-two of his followers with clear instructions is exclusively recorded in the Gospel of Luke. In the previous chapter, we read that Jesus sent his twelve disciples with similar instructions (Lk.9:1,2). When Jesus sent his disciples two by two, he restricted them to go only to the lost sheep of Israel (Mt.10:5, 6). Here, these seventy-two people had no such restrictions. They could go wherever Jesus wanted them to go. The main thing here is the emphasis on the need for more workers to go to the harvest field. So, Jesus told them to pray that the Lord of harvest may send more workers for his harvest. Finally, Jesus sent them to be the workers for the harvest.
Even today, we see the same need in the Christian mission fields. Because this harvest is not a seasonal one. We can see it throughout the year and throughout the world. However, "the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." We must realize the needs of the Kingdom of God and should pray for it. If the Lord wants to send us to the harvest field, we should be prepared to GO without saying any excuses. This harvest field could be the area we presently live in or a nearby place, or it maybe a place afar. Whatever it may be, we need to ask the Lord to send more workers, and we should be ready to do our part in it.
Application: I must realize that there is a need for more workers to collect the harvest. Jesus wants me to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send more workers. Praying for Christian missions and praying for souls to be saved and gathered in the Church is important to me. When I pray for the harvest, I should be ready to do what the Lord asks me instead of finding easy alternatives. When I obey God, I will see great things in and through my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for turning my attention to praying for the harvest. Lord, I realize the need for more workers for the harvest of souls. I pray that more Christian workers will go and share the Gospel with the unreached people groups. Lord, help me to understand my role in this great cause. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 107
Scripture: Luke 10: 29 But he (an expert in the law) wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Observation: Here, we see the underlying question that Jesus answered through the parable of the good Samaritan. The expert of the Law knew about who his God was. However, as a Jew, he may have struggled to understand the word "neighbor." Since the word "neighbor" does not point to a particular person, people may think it is ambiguous. In those days, even within the Jewish community, there were divisions and infights based on their beliefs. So, loving a fellow Jew itself had a lot of connotations.
In this context, Jesus helped an expert of the Law in a simple but powerful way to understand "who might be a neighbor?" through the parable of the Good Samaritan. A man, most likely a Jew, was severely beaten up by the robbers as he was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. However, a priest and a Levite who had a high reputation among the Jews were not willing to help him. Instead of helping the man, they simply "passed by on the other side." But, a Samaritan, who was from a community that Jews hated and considered as low, showed mercy to the wounded man. His act of kindness went beyond the social norms of the day. Jesus conveyed a clear message that helped the expert of the Law to understand the answer to his question.
The important thing here is not about understanding "who might be our neighbor." Instead, we need to show kindness to our neighbor, like the good Samaritan. Let us remember: this is something that we must do to inherit eternal life.
Application: Many Christians are ready to do anything for the Lord. However, many of them do not show similar enthusiasm for loving and helping others. They may have their own reasons for that. However, Jesus is the Good Samaritan. The message of the Good Samaritan story is that I should be a good Samaritan to the people in need. Without any partiality and discrimination, I need to show love to others just as I love myself. Irrespective of religion, race, caste, gender, and color, I should show the love of God to all people. Other than me, all the others are my neighbors.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for helping me to understand who my neighbor is and what I should do to him/her. Loving Lord, help me to show Christly love to my neighbors. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 108
Scripture: Luke 11: 1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
Observation: In Jesus' life, prayer was inseparable. Jesus had a regular prayer life. The Gospel tells us of the occasions of his short prayers (for e.g., Jn.11:41,42) as well as the times he spent in prayer for the whole night or alone (Mt. 14:23; Mk.1:35; Lk.5:16, 6:12). In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught about prayer regarding how to pray and how not to pray (Mt. 6:5-15). Jesus' prayer life impacted his disciples' lives. Here we see one such thing. We do not know how long they waited for Jesus to finish his prayer. But as they were waiting for Jesus, they would have seen how Jesus prayed. They also may have wanted to pray like Jesus. So, one of his disciples asked him, "Lord, teach us to pray." Notice the request here: He was not asking Jesus to teach a prayer so that he could use it in times of need. Rather, he asked Jesus to teach them "to pray," not a prayer.
One may expect that Jesus would have taught us how to spend more time in prayer or how to pray for a long time. But Jesus taught them a short prayer. This model prayer gives an outline to praying. After this, in the next nine verses (Lk.11:5-13), Jesus interpreted the first-word phrase he taught, "Father"- how good the Father is and about his spiritual gifts. This passage also emphasizes and encourages us to pray fervently.
Application: Jesus' prayer life is the perfect example for every Christian. His busy life schedule did not prevent him from praying. He did not teach his disciples about how to spend more time in prayer. But he showed them that through his life of prayer. As a disciple of Jesus, I want to pray like him. In my prayer, my focus should be on God the Father and his spiritual gifts, not any material blessings. For he knows what I need even before I ask. Prayer is not about asking for worldly things we need but about spending time with God. Then, time will be no matter.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to pray, through your life and words. Instead of making excuses about finding time to pray, help me follow you to have a regular prayer life. May your Holy Spirit enable me "to pray" every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 109
Scripture: Luke 11:39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?
Observation: When Jesus was in the house of a Pharisee, before the Pharisee served him the meal, Jesus wanted to teach him an important lesson related to the practice of Pharisees. It appears that Jesus deliberately did not wash his hands. When the Pharisees were looking at him in surprise as Jesus did not wash his hands, Jesus also told him about the importance of cleaning the inside part. A cup that is cleaned only on the outside part may look nice. However, if it is not washed thoroughly in and out, it would be unfit to use, no matter how costly or beautiful it is. People would notice only the outer part. We see various cultures across the globe give importance to external cleaning. But Jesus made it clear that God first sees our hearts rather than our outward cleanliness.
Application: People say cleanliness is next to godliness. However, they mostly speak about outward cleanliness and are reluctant to speak about inward cleanliness. But Jesus always speaks about the cleanliness of the heart. For Jesus, what comes from the heart is what makes a person unclean and defiles him (Mk.7:20). So, I should give importance to keeping my heart pure and clean rather than focusing on outward cleanliness.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for this important lesson about cleanliness. Lord, thank you for your blood that purifies my heart from all sin. Help me to walk in your light and truth. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 110
Scripture: Psalm 111: 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Observation: The Bible says about two kinds of fear: fear of God and fear of men. The fear of the Lord marks the beginning of wisdom. But, the fear of men will be a snare (Pro.29:25). Since wisdom helps a person to appropriately use his/her knowledge for the needs of life, people desire to have wisdom. To acquire wisdom, people are ready to take any risks. There are thousands of books already published related to wisdom. However, all who want to get wisdom through their education and experience do not get it.
Here, the psalmist says about one of the easiest ways that have a 100% success rate to get wisdom. i.e. the fear of the Lord. "The fear of the Lord" does not mean that we should always be afraid of God. Rather, as we read in Psalm 19:7-9, the fear of the Lord also refers to "the law...the statutes...the precepts....the commands....(and) the decrees of the Lord." When we have the fear of the Lord, we will have a good understanding. People may say different things, mostly negative things, about the fear of God. The fear of the Lord not only gives us wisdom but also helps us to get everything that we need in this life. The amazing fact about this wisdom is that anyone could get it from the Lord, irrespective of their age.
Application: Jesus plainly said, "I will warn you whom to fear" (Lk.12:5). I do not need to fear any men, except God. Fearing men always leads to chaos and confusions. Because, it does not merely end with fears. Fearing men could invite/cause so many troubles and complications in my life. On the other hand, when I have the fear of God, I get wisdom. And it gives me the understanding to handle any situation. My fear of the Lord does not indicate my weaknesses or worries of life. Rather, it shows my choice to get the required wisdom for my life. So, I have the fear of the Lord in my heart. It leads me to experience every blessing that the Lord has for me.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for making it easier to get the godly wisdom in my life. You give me wisdom. You are the wisdom. Lord, thank you for the good understanding that you give those who fear you. Help me live faithfully in the light of the wisdom you give me. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 111
Scripture: Luke 12: 54 He(Jesus) said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. 55 And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. 56 Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?
Observation: Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and many others often asked Jesus to show them a sign. Although they saw the miracles, teachings, and life of Jesus, they were asking for a sign because they did not want to accept Jesus. Here, Jesus questioned their failure in interpreting the present time. While they were good at interpreting "the appearance of the earth and the sky," they were not ready to understand their spiritual crisis. They turned a blind eye to the corruption of their religious leaders. They were more concerned about their tradition than the Word of God. They did not pay attention to all the signs that were given by prophets concerning the Messiah. Instead, they were showing their interest in interpreting clouds and winds. So, Jesus called them Hypocrites.
Many prophets, including Abraham, wanted to see the time when Jesus lived on earth. However, here, even after seeing Jesus directly, these people did not have the desire to see him as the promised Messiah. The "present time" mentioned here was a unique time in the history of men and was well attested by so many prophecies. It is important to discern the "present time" to understand the spiritual crisis of the time and to do the right thing that pleases God.
Application: In the modern and technologically advanced world, interpreting the seasons and forecasting the future of economic and social environments are easier with human-friendly technologies and innovations. However, in any given situation, whether physical or spiritual, understanding the "present time" is vital to deal with the issues of the time. I should not simply ignore and reject it. When I discern the "present time," I will see the presence of Jesus. Such a time as this, I should not spend my time and energy in unworthy things. Instead, I should focus on God to discern what he wants me to do now. It may be a small thing. However, it will be necessary and relevant to "this present time." It is my privileged responsibility to do something for God in the "present time."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your wake-up call to discern the present time of the world. Help me to understand the social and spiritual crises of today. Lord, give me your strength to do your will in my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 112
Scripture: Judges 16: 20 And she (Delilah) said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 And the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze shackles. And he ground at the mill in the prison.
Observation: The story of Samson's fall is a warning for us to check where we are and what we do. In Samson's life, we can see one of the major themes of the book of Judges i.e., a gradual decline of obedience to God and his commandments. As we all know, the beginning of Samson's story was wonderful. However, when he forgot his call and stayed in the wrong places to satisfy his sinful desires, he became a victim of his own actions. When Samson continued to stay and sleep to gratify his desires, his enemies were "lying in ambush" to capture him.
When the Philistines came to seize him, Samson said that he would win as he did before. "But he did not know that the Lord had left him." He might have tried to do all that he did before to escape from the enemies. He might have felt very bad about himself when he realized that the Lord was not with him. It was too late to escape. A mighty man who killed a lion with his bare hands was assigned to grind at the mill. However, it was not the end. When Samson prayed to the Lord, he regained his strength. but, he was no more to live in it.
Application: I may have some unique talents or special anointing of the Lord to do what others could not do. However, if I continually ignore the warnings and stay in the wrong places, thinking that I would get victory over sin easily whenever I want, the Lord would not be with me. When I read Samson's story, I know why it had happened to him. He was not with the Lord. In the Bible, we read about another man who also did not know what happened to him. It was Moses. When Moses came down from the Mount Sinai after spending time with the Lord, he did not know the radiance of his face. But others saw it (Exo.34:29,30). I want to spend time with the Lord, not sin anymore. Instead of sleeping at the lap of sin, I have promises of God to keep as my pillow. Now, I know what I should do!
Prayer: God, thank you that you know everything. You know the way that I should go. Thank you for your guiding words that say, “This is the way, walk in it." Lord, help me to listen to your words. Heavenly Father, give me your strength to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 113
Scripture: Luke 13: 23 Someone asked him (Jesus), “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, 24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.
Observation: Here, we see a genuine question from a follower of Jesus: “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” We also may have asked this question several times with the Lord on different occasions. We know the biblical teaching that God wants all people to be saved. However, when we look at Jesus' answer here, it appears that he tells something else instead of giving a straightforward answer to the questioner. When we read this question in its context, we understand that Jesus talks about how to be saved. God is more concerned about the quality of his people than the quantity of their numbers. Jesus' reference to the narrow door indicates about entering the kingdom of God through him. Jesus is " the way and the truth and the life" (Jn.14:6).
Does the narrow door mean that only a few people will be saved? Jews had a common belief that only a few would be saved. Just before this question, Jesus told the people about the parables of the Mustard seeds and the Yeast, in which Jesus compared the Kingdom of God with the mustard seed and the yeast (Lk.13:18-21). This parable gives us a glimpse of the influence and impact of the Kingdom of God among the people. In verse 29, Jesus says many people will come from all corners of the world to participate in the feast of the Kingdom of God. Certainly, many people will be saved. But the question is whether I am ready to enter through the narrow door.
Application: As a follower of Jesus Christ, my focus should be on entering through the door, not counting the number of people. While I follow Christ, I must commit to denying myself and carrying the cross daily. When I allow God to work in my life, so that God's kingdom can grow and permeate society, many people will come to know God and enter the Kingdom of God. I will make every effort to follow Jesus diligently.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for answering one of my heart’s questions. Lord, help me to take the narrow road that leads to life, instead of choosing the broad road that leads to destruction. May your Holy Spirit strengthen me to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 114
Scripture: Psalm 115: 17 It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence;18 it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore.
Observation: Although the last two verses of Psalm 115 appear disconnected from the other verses of the chapter, they convey an important message to us. In our present scenario, these verses are very relevant to us. We all know that a dead person cannot do anything. Nobody can escape from death. However, when we lose someone dear to us, we find it difficult to accept it. Some people have started to question God and his existence. During such times, we may hear taunting questions from within and without. One good thing we can do about a dead person is to praise God for his/her life. A dead person cannot do that. Only we who are alive can praise God. Does it make any sense?
When King Hezekiah recovered from his deadly sickness, he also said something similar to these verses (Isaiah 38:18,19). Our God is not dead, so we are alive. How about a person who is spiritually dead and has lost his relationship with God? They also cannot praise God until they set their things straight before God. A spiritually alive person will praise God, "both now and forevermore," irrespective of the environment.
Application: When I face taunting questions that could shake my faith in God, I should remember that my God is not dead. I need to realize that I worship the living God who has concern for me. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Heb. 13:8). He says, "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades" (Rev.1:18). Because he lives, I also will live (John 14:19). If I go through a spiritual dullness or find it difficult to praise God, I need to remember God. From my breathing to all I have in this world are from him. "What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?" As a living person, I will praise the Lord now and forever.
Prayer: Father, thank you for every blessing that you have given me. Above all, you are my God. You are the everlasting father. God, help me be thankful and praise you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 115
Scripture: Luke 14: 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Observation: In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus starts with a hyperbole (to emphasize his point, not to take its literal meaning) to explain the cost of being his disciple. In this passage, Jesus highlights three important things about being a disciple of him: 1) Loving Jesus more than any other person, 2) Carrying the cross (daily), 3) Willingness to give up everything for Christ' sake. Jesus says that a person who wants to build a tower would estimate the cost first, and a king who prepares his army for a battle would think about his army's strength compared to his enemy. Here, Jesus does not discourage a person from becoming his disciple. Rather, he encourages everyone to be his disciple.
A person who has not enough money and strength would not go for a building project and war, respectively. “In the same way,” those who consider (boast on) their strengths and power cannot be Jesus' disciples. He expects those who want to become his disciples should be ready to give up everything to follow him. Counting the cost here does not imply whether we are capable or worthy of following Christ. It places a challenge in front of us: are we ready for an absolute surrender to Christ?
Application: As a disciple of Jesus, I need to seek first God and his kingdom than anything else. This doesn't mean that I should hate my family and relatives. It shows my priority to God. To follow Jesus, I should be ready to carry the cross, i.e., to pay the price for it. A Christian life without the cross is a life without Christ. I must be willing to submit my all to Christ, keeping nothing for my own sake. Like Paul, "whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ," I want to say the same and live for Christ.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for making it easier to become your disciple. I can be your disciple by loving you with an absolute surrender. Help me to follow you every day with love and humility. You are my everything. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 116
Scripture: Luke 15:1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable:
Observation: In Luke 15, we see three parables that Jesus told to the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Sometimes, we forget why Jesus said these parables. Here we read that the tax collectors and sinners came to listen to Jesus' teaching. Whenever Jesus spent time with the sinners and tax collectors, he influenced them and changed their lives, which was never vice versa. The Gospel tells many such stories of transformation in the life of sinners. However, those who called themselves as guardians of the law did not understand Jesus' logic of welcoming the sinners. For them, he was doing something against the social norms of the day. The three parables we read in Luke 15 emphasize the joy and excitement of finding the lost ones. We can see a gradual increase in both the value of the lost and the joy in finding it or getting it back. Luke 15: 7 and10 tells us about the prevailing joy in heaven and among the angels when a sinner repents. The parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the joy of the father who was waiting for his son to return home.
Sometimes, when a notorious or undesirable person wants to come to Christ, do we show the same joy and excitement that we show when we find something we lost? Instead of expressing our happiness for their willingness to come to the Lord, we may express our fears and apprehensions. At times, we may question their motives as well. However, Jesus rejoices at the repentance of a sinner. As we see in the three parables of Jesus, the progressive expression of the joy of heaven, angels, and the Father reminds us that we should be ready to find and accept the lost ones.
Application: If the repentance of one sinner would cause "more rejoicing in heaven," how much more should I be happy about it! The eagerness of the shepherd to find a lost sheep, the woman's curiosity to find a lost coin, and the loving father who ran toward his lost son to accept him with a loving embrace all remind me how important it is to seek and save the lost. When a sinner comes to God with a repenting heart, it brings a smile on God's face. Then, the sinner's transformed life brings more joy to his family and his society (e.g., Zacchaeus). I should be open to receiving someone who wants to come to Christ, irrespective of his history. I should remember that "every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future." Finding the lost gives me more joy than when it was with me before I lost it. The only difference now is that I know its value.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your love to accept me when I came to you. As a sinner saved by your grace, help me to show your love and kindness to others who need your salvation. Lord, help me be involved in seeking the lost and sharing the joy with you in finding them. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 117
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Observation: There are many interpretations given for Psalm 118. However, in all the interpretations, one common thing is that this psalm was used as a thanksgiving song in Jewish prayers during their important festivals. Psalm 118 is a part of "Egyptian Hallel," which consists of 6 Psalms (Ps113-118) in Jewish liturgy. The psalmist remembers God's deliverance from his enemies and expresses his thanksgiving to the Lord. "This very day" in verse 24 alludes to the day God made the rejected stone as the cornerstone. God can make a person who is considered as unworthy become an indispensable person.
One thing that we need to remember every day is, "This is the day that the Lord has made." Our situations, struggles, problems, jobs, positions etc. differ from one another. Being happy today is very important in our life. When we remember God's past deliverance, we can thank God for today and be happy about it. Our life situations will not be the same forever. God wants us to be happy every day, regardless of our situation. Our rejoicing today is a prelude to our deliverance tomorrow. Our dependence on God keeps us happy, not our life situations.
Application: God has done so many amazing things in my life. I thank God for his faithfulness in lifting me up to the present situation. As the psalmist says, "I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done" (v.17). This day, this minute, and even this very second I breathe are God-given gifts to me. I cannot get it back If I miss it. I may be unhappy about my past life, but I can be happy today. Instead of looking at my present situation, when I remember God, I can be happy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance you give me. Thank you for your enduring love. Help me to be happy today. Lord, you are the source of my joy and strength. Help me to depend on you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 118
Scripture: Deuteronomy 27: 9 Then Moses and the Levitical priests said to all Israel, “Be silent, Israel, and listen! You have now become the people of the Lord your God. 10 Obey the Lord your God and follow his commands and decrees that I give you today.”
Observation: In Deuteronomy 27 and 28, we see a list of blessings and curses that would come upon the Israelites based on their obedience to the Lord and his commands. Some people think that these two chapters give more verses on curses than on God's blessings. When we read these chapters, we understand that these blessings or curses will be the results of either obedience or disobedience, respectively. When we look at the sentences that start with "If," we understand how it is connected with the command of God that we read in Deut.27:10. Although the Israelites became the people of God a long time ago, here we read that "You have now become the people of the Lord....Obey the Lord..today." This event must have renewed the covenant and reaffirmed the Israelites' commitment to the Lord. In the loud and noisy environment of the world, we may not be able to hear what the Lord expects from us. O my soul, be silent and listen to what the Lord speaks to you today.
Application: Obedience to the Lord and following his commands always brings forth all the blessings of the earth and heaven. What I do decides what I will get in my life! If I obey God, I will see all the blessings in my life. However, the greatest blessing is that I belong to God. I am one among the people of the Lord my God. Every day, I need to remind myself of this and look at God to know what areas he expects me to obey today. As a child of God, I choose to obey him and follow his commands every day of my life. This is my choice!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for remembering me and renewing your loving relationship every day. You are concerned about my day-to-day life. Lord, help me to obey and follow your commands today. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 90
Scripture: Psalm 91: 9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
Observation: Psalm 91 is one of the most used psalms by believers who trust and seek God's protection. God's place is a safe haven. However, a person starts to experience God's protection when s/he openly proclaims his/her trust in God. Those who make God their refuge live a protected life from the attacks of enemies and diseases. Whether it is a day or a night, a person protected by God will not be affected by enemies and diseases like a wicked person. When we say God is our safe haven, we experience both spiritual and physical protection. How much more protected we are! Seeking God's protection and the protection that God gives us, they both are acts of LOVE.
Application: When I say I trust God, it is not an expression of my weaknesses or incompetence. Instead, I express my love and trust in God. When the most high God is ready to offer his shelter to me, I can find no better place to live than it, for he gives me the best protection that goes beyond any human comprehension. Sometimes, I may not be able to explain how God protects me. But I can experience his protection every day, with the peace he gives.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my refuge and my fortress. Nothing can harm me when I am under your protection. Even if I have to go through tough times, you will help me come out victoriously because you love me. Lord, help me to love and trust you better every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 91
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31: 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Observation: In Deuteronomy chapter 31, when Moses was giving his final instruction to Joshua to lead the Israelites, we see the repeated occurrence of the phrase "Be strong and courageous" (v. 7,8, 23). Moses would not be there to lead the people into the promised land. Moses was aware that his earthly life would come to an end soon. But God is always available to lead his people. When leaders change, or God's people face an attack or threats from enemies, God encourages his people by saying, "Be strong and courageous" (Josh.1, 1 Ch.22:13, 2 Ch. 32:7). Godly people need not worry or be afraid about the future. Because, as we see in the bible passages mentioned here, God always goes with his people. God never leaves his people nor forsakes them. No matter what challenges or dangers are ahead of us; God comes with us. He wants us to be confident to face them without any fear. With God's ever presence with us, we can "be strong and courageous."
Application: When I face difficult times of my life, when I fear about the changes that are taking place in my life, when I encounter great challenges in my life, and when I am about to enter a new place or start a new thing, I should remember that God is with me and he would never forsake me. Instead of worrying and fearing about the future, I need to "be strong and courageous" by remembering God's constant presence with me. My fears and worries do not help me. They could collapse my strength and peace. God comes with me, and he is the source of my strength and courage.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unchanging love in the changing world. As I enter a new day or a new phase of my life, help me remember that you are with me. My God, irrespective of the situation I face, give me the required strength to walk with you in all of my life, to "be strong and courageous." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 92
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33: 29 Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights."
Observation: This is the concluding verse of the final blessing of Moses, the man of God, to the Israelites. When Moses saw the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, how the Lord protected the Israelites and provided their needs during the forty years of the wilderness journey, he said in astonishment, "Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you." They are unique because there is no one like their God (v.26). He is the eternal God! As we see here, God's protection, providence, and victory are not just things of the past. He will continue to provide his help till his people win against their enemies. As long as his people live under God's rule, they will live safely. The people of God are indeed blessed!
Application: When others talk about the blessedness of my life, I should remember that it is God who provides all that I need and protects me. My God is worthy of praise and worship. The God of heaven has given me the privilege of being one among his people. When the Lord himself is my shield and helper, how much should I cooperate with him to do his will for my life! Living with God is something that is really unique and an unparalleled blessing.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your amazing grace that saves me. You care for my every need. Thank you for your provision. I praise you for your protection thus far. My savior, help me today to enjoy the blessedness of living under your care and safety with joy and contentment. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 93
Scripture: Psalm 94: 12 Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law.
Observation: In Psalm 94, we read about two types of people and how the Lord disciplines them. The wicked people who do not fear God and do evil deeds are warned of the Lord's punishment. On the other hand, psalm 94 says of the blessedness of the righteous person whom God disciplines (v.12-19). While the evildoers receive warnings about their punishment, God disciplines his people to correct them to live according to his word. He does this to help the person he disciplines to understand the Scripture and know what God wants to do with him/her. We should know that God disciplines us for our good (Heb.12:10). It may be unpleasant for a while until we understand God's intended purposes. Here is a reminder: when God disciplines us, he helps, supports, consoles, and sends his relief. "For the Lord will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance" (v.14).
Application: When God disciplines me, I should turn my attention to God's word to know what changes he expects from me instead of complaining about the difficulties. When God disciplines, he prunes and purifies me. I need to understand that God does this because he loves me. When I allow God to discipline me, how precious it would be! Having the best teacher on my side is the privilege of the Christian life. When I correct myself based on the Lord's teaching, I get a clear picture of his will for my life.
Prayer: Lord, you are the great teacher who helps your children to walk in your way, according to your word. You want me to be holy, like you. Oh, my heavenly teacher, help me to understand your love and give me the wisdom to obey your words. Lord, help me today to be with you and to understand your words. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 94
Scripture: Luke 4:5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours." 8 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'"
Observation: After forty days of fasting, Jesus was hungry. He must have been physically tired and weak. Here we read how Satan tried to spoil the purpose of Jesus' incarnation with various means. Satan was able to show the whole world instantly in his attempt to tempt Jesus. This might have been a mental or spiritual vision. With a condition, Satan was ready to give his authority over all the world to Jesus. Satan's tempting condition was that Jesus should worship him. Jesus could have gained power and authority over the earth without dying on the cross. But he did not do it because it was against the very purpose of His mission to redeem the whole world. Jesus responded to him with the Word of God and said, 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.' In Matthew 4:10, Jesus immediately responded, "Away from me, Satan!"
How many Christians who went through similar temptations had lost their call in pursuit of worldly possessions, positions, and power! They think that some small compromises are not big sins, and God would understand their situation. We need to understand that anything that stops us from worshipping God or entices us to worship something else is actually not from God. Notice how Jesus used the Scripture passage when he responded to Satan. When Peter did not understand about the crucifixion and rebuked Jesus, Jesus told him, "You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns" (Mt.16:23). "Today, if only you would hear his voice, 'Do not harden your hearts'" (Ps.95:8).
Application: Satan wants all people to worship him. He tempts every person to turn their attention away from God. When I face such temptations of gaining worldly things, the first thing I need to do is to check whether it is from God or not. For God does not tempt anyone (Jam.1:13). Sometimes, my lust for certain things may mislead me. Secondly, I should be aware that the devil is "a liar and the father of lies" (Jn.8:44). Then, without giving even a foothold to Satan, I should boldly proclaim what the Word of God says. As Paul writes to Ephesians, the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit (Eph.6:17).
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to stand against evil temptations and to worship God alone. I cannot serve two masters. Dear God, help me to recognize anything that hinders me from worshipping you. Lord, give me your strength today to prioritize the concerns of God and live accordingly. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 95
Scripture: Psalm 96: 9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.
Observation: Since Psalm 96 closely resembles 1 Chronicles 16:23-33, some say that it was written by David. This psalm first encourages its readers and hearers to sing and praise God. Secondly, it gives reasons to praise and worship God. Thirdly, it gives a unique picture of how to worship God! This distinguishes the key difference between the worship of God Yahweh and idol worship. In Hebrew, the phrase "in the splendor of his holiness" may refer to more than one meaning. Some may think that whether it says about the holiness of God or the holy clothing of a person who worships God. There is no doubt about God's holiness. He is the Holy God. This makes him unique among all gods. However, what makes him even more unique is that he expects us to worship "in the splendor of his holiness."
Holy God expects holy worship! How we come before God really matters to him. Does this mean that we cannot worship God if we are not holy! NO. God repeatedly says, "I am the Lord, who makes you holy." All we need is to acknowledge our true state before him and ask him for forgiveness with true repentance. He purifies us so that we can worship God. How do we come to worship God?
Application: I hear a lot of Christian songs that help me sing and praise God almighty. Praising and singing about God are good starters to worship God. However, God is pleased with the worship that is made "in the splendor of his holiness." No other ornamentation or clothing pleases God more than holy worship. I should not say that "I am not a holy person, so I will not worship God." He removes my fears and makes me holy when I come before him with godly fear. He is able!
Prayer: Father God, you are the Holy One of Israel! You want me to be holy, just as you are. Holy God, discipline me so that I may partake in your holiness. It is not just when I come before you, but help me always lead a holy life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 96
Scripture: Luke 5: 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
Observation: When we read Luke 5:8, we may wonder what Peter saw at that moment! Peter, a professional fisherman, must have been surprised when Jesus told him, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch." Fishermen prefer to fish early in the morning or at nighttime, for it is the best time to catch fish. It is unusual that Peter and his men caught nothing here, even after they tried all night. However, when he let down the nets in obedience to Jesus' words, he saw something fresh about Jesus. Obviously, it was not the first time he had been with Jesus. Until then, Peter may have known Jesus as a carpenter's son from Nazareth, or a teacher, or a miracle worker, and so on. When he saw the abundance of fish in their nets, he must have understood that Jesus was more than any other person in the world.
When people realize the nearness of God, they become aware of their real sinful state and unworthiness to stand close to him. When Isaiah saw God, he became conscious of his actual state in front of the Holy God (Is.6:5). Notice what Peter did: "He fell at Jesus' knees" and said, "Lord." In other words, as soon as he realized that all his skills and traits were nothing before Jesus, he surrendered to Jesus. See the difference in how Peter called Jesus - Master Jesus became the Lord Jesus. After that, Jesus made him a fisher of men. After this incident, he and his friends left their nets to be with Jesus permanently. They were no longer occasional visitors to Jesus. Afterward, they began to follow Jesus closely wherever he went.
Application: When I come near to Jesus, when I have a personal encounter with Jesus, I get a clear picture of who Jesus is and who I am! Seeing Jesus in the distance or meeting him once in a while would give me a respectable understanding of Jesus. Some people do not want to come near Jesus because they want to avoid exposure about their true state. Instead, they maintain a distance from Jesus and marvel at him. I should not do this. Until I allow him to come close to me or go near him, I will miss an excellent opportunity to know him better and personally and realize my true being. When I realize that Jesus is my Lord, my life is transformed totally. Then, I become a new person by living with him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for continually giving me many opportunities to come near you, though I am not worthy to come before you. Thank you for your call that changes me as your follower and a disciple. Lord, help me stay close to you today and know more about you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 97
Scripture: Luke 5: 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better.'”
Observation: When we look at the context of Luke 5:38, 39, we see the questions and doubts raised against Jesus and his disciples. Against the common Jewish practice of that time, Jesus dined with sinners and tax collectors. Pharisees called Jesus a friend of sinners. They raised questions concerning the practice of Jesus' disciples about fasting and prayer and compared it with the practice of the disciples of John and the Pharisees. John lived an ascetic life with simple food (Mt.3:4). His disciples may have learned about fasting from him as an act of repentance. Moreover, John was in prison. So, his disciples may have fasted for his release. Pharisees practiced a strict religious life with a list of so many do's and don'ts. This includes regular fasting (Lk.18:12). In the Pentateuch, we read about many festivals according to the law of Moses. Israelites were not commanded to fast regularly except on the day of atonement (Lev.16:29).
Here, did Jesus say anything against fasting? NO. In fact, he himself fasted (Matthew 4); In his Sermon on the Mount, he spoke about the spiritual benefit of voluntary fasting (Matthew 6). The major difference between Jesus' ministry and others was that Jesus preached a new way of living that embraced all and gave hope to those who accepted him, irrespective of their background. The way he chose his disciples, his love for sinners and tax collectors, and his teaching were completely different from the customs of those days. Pharisees and the disciples of John did not understand it. So, Jesus explained the newness of his teaching and ministry with a double parable. The Gospel of Jesus offers a fresh vision for our life. We should not try to mix it with our old customs. Unlike the Pharisees, who were not ready to change their perception, we need to be open-minded to accept Jesus' teaching and live accordingly.
Application:* Jesus wants me to have a fresh look at my life. He wants to change the way I look at others. Instead of judging others, I need to show Christ's love to all. I should not hesitate to go near the people who are hated by society. They, too, need God's love and the Gospel. I should be ready to follow Jesus and his footsteps, not the customs of the world.
Prayer: Jesus, though you hated sins and lived a holy life on the earth, you were a friend of sinners, gave them an opportunity to come to God, and transformed their lives. You have changed me in many things. However, as a child of God, I need to become like you. Lord, help me to live and to speak just like you. Jesus, help me to lead the new life of following you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 98
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 100: 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Observation: Psalm 100 invites all people to come and praise God. Some may think, why should we praise God? This short psalm precisely mentions some of the important reasons to praise God. First of all, the Lord is the God. There is no one like him. We need to know him as the God. Not only that, he is the creator who made us. "we are his people, the sheep of his pasture" (v.3). Is this not enough to praise God! The Psalm lists a few more reasons to praise the Lord. He is the good God. His love is enduring love forever. Look at his faithfulness! It does not end with us. His faithfulness continues through all generations. The Bible testifies to God's continual faithfulness. What more reason do we need to praise the Lord! Shall we enter (this day) his gates with thanksgiving and praise?
Application: I find no difficulty in praising God when everything goes smoothly. However, when I go through failures, frustrations, and disappointments, and when I do not get what I want, sometimes, I feel as if there is no reason to praise God. It happens only when I look at my situation. In such times, I need to look upon my creator God and know he cares for me. I belong to him. He is the good God whose love endures forever. God is good all the time! I may not know the reason for my present situation. But, it should not be a hindrance to praise God. If my current situation does not motivate me to praise God, I can think of God's faithfulness in the last hundred days of my life. How many amazing things he has done to me in this period! What can stop me from praising God!
Prayer: Good God, thank you for your enduring love for me. Thank you for the promise of your never-ending faithfulness. Lord God, I praise you with all my heart. No words can fully express my heart that praises you! Help me today to enter your presence with thanksgiving and with a heart of praise. Hallelujah, Praise ye the Lord. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 100
Scripture: Luke 7: 6 So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
Observation: Here, we see another instance that amazed Jesus. Nevertheless, this time, the faith of the centurion amazed Jesus. In the earlier incident, we read that Jesus was amazed at the lack of faith of his hometown people (Mt.6:6). As compared to the brief account of Matthew, Luke gives more information about the Centurion story. It was a common practice in the ancient Middle East to send intermediaries to speak for someone. These mediators' words were considered the words of the person who sent them. In this Gospel narrative, notably, two things draw our attention.
First, the centurion understood his worthiness to come before Jesus. It explains his respect for Jesus and his unworthiness to stand before the Lord. This is possibly a reference to his moral and sinful state. He did not consider his high position in the Roman military, his wealthy status, and his social acceptance as an eligibility to come before Jesus. Secondly, and importantly, as a man of authority, he had a better understanding of the power of Jesus’ words. He didn't even ask Jesus to heal his servant but asked him to say a word. He believed the word of Jesus was powerful enough to heal his servant.
This was a spectacular miracle that a person who was far away from Jesus received his healing through the power of his word. It was an unusual miracle! We need to take note of the centurion's understanding of his worthiness and the power of the word of authority. Jesus' word has everything we need. It is powerful!
Application: When I ask myself a question that whether I am worthy to come before Jesus, I understand that I could come before Jesus only by his grace and love, not because of any merits I earned. My money, social status, and powerful position do not make me worthy to stand before the Holy God. When I humble myself and confess my unworthiness to stand before God, HE sees it. I will see miracles in my life when I understand the power of Jesus' words. My faith and the lack of my faith both could amaze Jesus. I want Jesus to see my faith in him and his words.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for helping me understand my actual state and the power of your words. You show no partiality with anyone. Help me be humble and seek your word for my life situations. Lord, say the word for my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 101
Scripture: Psalm 102: 17 He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea.
Observation: Psalm 102 is "a prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord." The intense pain and depression of the psalmist's distressing situation are described in verses 3-11. As the psalmist thought that he was on the brink of death, he remembered God and expressed his hope in him. The eternal God never rejects a prayer of a person in great need. God listens, responds, and answers the prayer of an afflicted person. When the psalmist saw God during the time of his sorrowful state, he understood that God’s love endures forever. Though heaven and earth may change, God never changes but remains the same. Like the psalmist, when we go through affliction, we need to remember our everlasting and eternal God, who never changes. He will answer our prayers. He will change our misery. When we look upon the unchanging God, we understand that our present (distressing) situation is not permanent. For the Lord God will not despise our plea.
Application: When I face uncertainty, depression, loneliness, grief, fears, and taunts, I need to look upon God instead of seeing my situations. God is my hope in such difficult times. Though no one helps me, God will take care of me. He answers my prayer. In the changing world, God never changes. I put my trust in God. I will seek his face when I face any distress.
Prayer: Everlasting God, thank you for helping me to understand who you are. In a world that is filled with uncertainties, Lord, you are my hope. Help me to remain in you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 102
Scripture: Luke 8: 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”
Observation: Some Christians misunderstand this passage (Luke 8:17-18) and question whether God would take away what we have. However, when we read the passage in its context, we can understand what Jesus tells us. In Luke 8, we read that Jesus interpreted the meaning of the 'Parable of the Sower' to his disciples. Jesus told them about four types of people who hear the Word of God. There is no mystery in the Gospel of Jesus. Jesus wants to reveal the secret of God's kingdom and make it known to all. Truth cannot be concealed in a clay jar. Those who accept the truth see the light and become a light that removes the darkness of the world. Truth should be kept on a lampstand so that all who come to light may benefit from it. Verse 17 suggests that all the secrets will be revealed to us.
The key verse in this passage is, "therefore consider carefully how you listen." How we listen to the Word matters to God. The Parable of the Sower is not just about the seeds that fell on different grounds. It says of different persons who heard God's word. Not all who listen to the Word of God will be saved and produce multi-fold results. Those who keep God's word in the right place will get the desired results. Others, they would lose even what they think they have. Notice the words and understand the differences. They do not have the word, but they think they have it. Because they did not give an appropriate place for the Word of God, it will be taken from them.
Application: Jesus not only likes to reveal the secret truths about God and the Kingdom of God. He wants me to understand the truth and give light to others by sharing it with them. It is not about how bright I am or how far my light goes. Instead, it is about how carefully I listen to the Word of God and put it in the right place for its growth and for a fruitful harvest. Merely listening to the Word of God is not enough, but when I obey God's word, I can expect God's results (James 1:22-25). Although listening to the Word of God is important, it would not be complete without putting it into practice.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for explaining the truth, which helps me understand the secrets of the Kingdom of God. Help me listen to your words carefully and practice them every day diligently. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 103
"What is your name?" - A simple question that may reveal legion of things!
Read: Joshua 21,22; Psalm 104; Luke 8:26-56
Scripture: Luke 8: 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.
Observation: Here we see a man who was in a terrible condition of demon possession. He was uncontrollable by chains, as he was under the control of the demon. Though he was alive, he lived in tombs. However, when he saw Jesus, all the control of the demon started to crumble at Jesus' feet. When Jesus asked his name, the demons that lived in him responded to Jesus. They had such control over him. It was certainly not a single demon. There was a legion of demons in him. In the Roman army, the term legion would refer to a division of 6000 men. This man was possessed by a large number of demons. All these demons were so afraid of Jesus. But, Jesus was concerned about the deliverance of the man. When the people of the area came to see what had happened, they saw the same demon-possessed man "sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind" (v.35). The man wanted to follow Jesus. But Jesus told the man to return to his home to testify what God has done to him. Interestingly, this man witnessed what Jesus did to him to the whole town.
Application: When somebody asks my name, how would it be if someone else gives an answer instead of me. If that unknown person lives in me and would speak forcefully on behalf of me without my permission, certainly my life will be in a mess. Isn't it? The man we see in Luke 8 had many demons in him. I may not live in such a demon-controlled life. However, at times, particularly when I am provoked to do something, or when I face sinful temptations, I notice that instead of me, some things within me try to use the situation to take a control and to enslave me. It may be my anger or my bitter past experiences or my self or my weaknesses and so on. When things go out of control, I need to fall at the feet of Jesus. The number of things that disturbs me is not a matter to Jesus. There is no better place to deal with such things than the feet of Jesus. When I sit with him, I find peace and the right mindset. I am with Jesus. I belong to Jesus. I will not live as a living dead, but will live as a living testimony of Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for delivering people from the control of demons. You are my savior. I live in your care. If any known or unknown things try to take control of my life, help me to bring it to your feet. Thank you for giving me the peace that transcends all understanding. Lord Jesus, guard my heart and my thoughts. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 104
Scripture: Joshua 24: 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Observation: The Bible tells us about the final words of many great men of God. In Joshua 24, we see Joshua's final speech with the Israelites. After briefly recapitulating what the Lord has done to the Israelites, Joshua challenged the people to serve the Lord. At that time, Israelites were living in the promised land, which God won for them. They did not need to go to any wars. They could enjoy the harvest of the land they had just received. The promised land was very fertile. As the Lord said, it was "a land flowing with milk and honey." After that, the Israelites would get everything they needed.
Joshua might have feared that the people may go away from the Lord when they live in prosperity. While challenging the Israelites to serve the Lord, Joshua reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Lord with his own family. Joshua did not let them go immediately when people responded, saying, "We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God” (v.18). Rather, he reminded them about who God was. Thus, Joshua led the Israelites to renew their commitment to serving the Lord. Because the Israelites' possession of the promised land was an act of God. As for Joshua, Israelites were to decide on whom they would serve. We, too, need the same commitment to serving the Lord.
Application: Generally, people do not seek God desperately all the time, as they seek him in their times of need. I should remember God even when I have everything that I need. I must serve the Lord faithfully at all times. My God is the greatest blessing I may have on this earth. So, I will serve the Lord.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for all the blessings you give in my life. Lord, you are sufficient to guide me always. Instead of keeping my eyes on the blessings, help me to fix my eyes on you to know more about you. I want to serve you, oh God! Help me to live as a faithful servant who obeys you always. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 105
Scripture: Psalm 106: 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin. 44 Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45 for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented.
Observation: In the history of the Israelites, one thing that catches our attention is their repeated disobedience against God, even after they saw all the wondrous works of the Lord. However, when in their distress, they cried out to the Lord God, he saved them by remembering his covenantal promise. When we read about their rebellious acts that they started right from the beginning of their Exodus journey, we may wonder how these people could ever forget all of God's marvelous deeds done to the Pharaoh and the people of Egypt! When they rebelled against God, as we read here, "they wasted away in their sin." Disobedience to God is a sin.
God saves us when we call him for his help. However, when we allow sin to creep into our lives, it makes havoc on us. When we realize our mistakes and ask God for his help to deliver us from the unpleasant things we invited to come upon us by disobeying God, he remembers his covenant and hears our prayers. His great love protects us from any dangers. Because the Lord is good, his love endures forever. How many times did Israelites sin against God? How many times did God save them! Many times, indeed!
Application: When I read about the repeated disobedience of Israelites, I could easily judge them as unfaithful and ungrateful to God. However, when I think of my shortcomings in serving God and my disobedience to his word, I may find myself worse than the Israelites in obeying God's word. When I am trapped in sin due to my disobedience, I must repent and call upon God for his salvation. The sooner I come to God, the sooner I can experience his deliverance in my life. He is great in love. "His love has no limits, His grace has no measure." His love is covenantal love. I should remember the covenant of God and keep myself away from anything that could lead me to disobey him. How many times did he rescue me! How many times shall I praise God! Many times.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your great love for me. Help me to realize my sins, if any. Instead of hiding myself in the darkness, help me to come to you with repentance. Thank you for answering my prayers. Lord, I praise you for all the mighty works you have done so many times in my life. "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 106
Scripture: Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
Observation: Jesus' sending of seventy-two of his followers with clear instructions is exclusively recorded in the Gospel of Luke. In the previous chapter, we read that Jesus sent his twelve disciples with similar instructions (Lk.9:1,2). When Jesus sent his disciples two by two, he restricted them to go only to the lost sheep of Israel (Mt.10:5, 6). Here, these seventy-two people had no such restrictions. They could go wherever Jesus wanted them to go. The main thing here is the emphasis on the need for more workers to go to the harvest field. So, Jesus told them to pray that the Lord of harvest may send more workers for his harvest. Finally, Jesus sent them to be the workers for the harvest.
Even today, we see the same need in the Christian mission fields. Because this harvest is not a seasonal one. We can see it throughout the year and throughout the world. However, "the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." We must realize the needs of the Kingdom of God and should pray for it. If the Lord wants to send us to the harvest field, we should be prepared to GO without saying any excuses. This harvest field could be the area we presently live in or a nearby place, or it maybe a place afar. Whatever it may be, we need to ask the Lord to send more workers, and we should be ready to do our part in it.
Application: I must realize that there is a need for more workers to collect the harvest. Jesus wants me to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send more workers. Praying for Christian missions and praying for souls to be saved and gathered in the Church is important to me. When I pray for the harvest, I should be ready to do what the Lord asks me instead of finding easy alternatives. When I obey God, I will see great things in and through my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for turning my attention to praying for the harvest. Lord, I realize the need for more workers for the harvest of souls. I pray that more Christian workers will go and share the Gospel with the unreached people groups. Lord, help me to understand my role in this great cause. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 107
Scripture: Luke 10: 29 But he (an expert in the law) wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Observation: Here, we see the underlying question that Jesus answered through the parable of the good Samaritan. The expert of the Law knew about who his God was. However, as a Jew, he may have struggled to understand the word "neighbor." Since the word "neighbor" does not point to a particular person, people may think it is ambiguous. In those days, even within the Jewish community, there were divisions and infights based on their beliefs. So, loving a fellow Jew itself had a lot of connotations.
In this context, Jesus helped an expert of the Law in a simple but powerful way to understand "who might be a neighbor?" through the parable of the Good Samaritan. A man, most likely a Jew, was severely beaten up by the robbers as he was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. However, a priest and a Levite who had a high reputation among the Jews were not willing to help him. Instead of helping the man, they simply "passed by on the other side." But, a Samaritan, who was from a community that Jews hated and considered as low, showed mercy to the wounded man. His act of kindness went beyond the social norms of the day. Jesus conveyed a clear message that helped the expert of the Law to understand the answer to his question.
The important thing here is not about understanding "who might be our neighbor." Instead, we need to show kindness to our neighbor, like the good Samaritan. Let us remember: this is something that we must do to inherit eternal life.
Application: Many Christians are ready to do anything for the Lord. However, many of them do not show similar enthusiasm for loving and helping others. They may have their own reasons for that. However, Jesus is the Good Samaritan. The message of the Good Samaritan story is that I should be a good Samaritan to the people in need. Without any partiality and discrimination, I need to show love to others just as I love myself. Irrespective of religion, race, caste, gender, and color, I should show the love of God to all people. Other than me, all the others are my neighbors.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for helping me to understand who my neighbor is and what I should do to him/her. Loving Lord, help me to show Christly love to my neighbors. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 108
Scripture: Luke 11: 1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
Observation: In Jesus' life, prayer was inseparable. Jesus had a regular prayer life. The Gospel tells us of the occasions of his short prayers (for e.g., Jn.11:41,42) as well as the times he spent in prayer for the whole night or alone (Mt. 14:23; Mk.1:35; Lk.5:16, 6:12). In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught about prayer regarding how to pray and how not to pray (Mt. 6:5-15). Jesus' prayer life impacted his disciples' lives. Here we see one such thing. We do not know how long they waited for Jesus to finish his prayer. But as they were waiting for Jesus, they would have seen how Jesus prayed. They also may have wanted to pray like Jesus. So, one of his disciples asked him, "Lord, teach us to pray." Notice the request here: He was not asking Jesus to teach a prayer so that he could use it in times of need. Rather, he asked Jesus to teach them "to pray," not a prayer.
One may expect that Jesus would have taught us how to spend more time in prayer or how to pray for a long time. But Jesus taught them a short prayer. This model prayer gives an outline to praying. After this, in the next nine verses (Lk.11:5-13), Jesus interpreted the first-word phrase he taught, "Father"- how good the Father is and about his spiritual gifts. This passage also emphasizes and encourages us to pray fervently.
Application: Jesus' prayer life is the perfect example for every Christian. His busy life schedule did not prevent him from praying. He did not teach his disciples about how to spend more time in prayer. But he showed them that through his life of prayer. As a disciple of Jesus, I want to pray like him. In my prayer, my focus should be on God the Father and his spiritual gifts, not any material blessings. For he knows what I need even before I ask. Prayer is not about asking for worldly things we need but about spending time with God. Then, time will be no matter.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to pray, through your life and words. Instead of making excuses about finding time to pray, help me follow you to have a regular prayer life. May your Holy Spirit enable me "to pray" every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 109
Scripture: Luke 11:39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?
Observation: When Jesus was in the house of a Pharisee, before the Pharisee served him the meal, Jesus wanted to teach him an important lesson related to the practice of Pharisees. It appears that Jesus deliberately did not wash his hands. When the Pharisees were looking at him in surprise as Jesus did not wash his hands, Jesus also told him about the importance of cleaning the inside part. A cup that is cleaned only on the outside part may look nice. However, if it is not washed thoroughly in and out, it would be unfit to use, no matter how costly or beautiful it is. People would notice only the outer part. We see various cultures across the globe give importance to external cleaning. But Jesus made it clear that God first sees our hearts rather than our outward cleanliness.
Application: People say cleanliness is next to godliness. However, they mostly speak about outward cleanliness and are reluctant to speak about inward cleanliness. But Jesus always speaks about the cleanliness of the heart. For Jesus, what comes from the heart is what makes a person unclean and defiles him (Mk.7:20). So, I should give importance to keeping my heart pure and clean rather than focusing on outward cleanliness.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for this important lesson about cleanliness. Lord, thank you for your blood that purifies my heart from all sin. Help me to walk in your light and truth. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 110
Scripture: Psalm 111: 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Observation: The Bible says about two kinds of fear: fear of God and fear of men. The fear of the Lord marks the beginning of wisdom. But, the fear of men will be a snare (Pro.29:25). Since wisdom helps a person to appropriately use his/her knowledge for the needs of life, people desire to have wisdom. To acquire wisdom, people are ready to take any risks. There are thousands of books already published related to wisdom. However, all who want to get wisdom through their education and experience do not get it.
Here, the psalmist says about one of the easiest ways that have a 100% success rate to get wisdom. i.e. the fear of the Lord. "The fear of the Lord" does not mean that we should always be afraid of God. Rather, as we read in Psalm 19:7-9, the fear of the Lord also refers to "the law...the statutes...the precepts....the commands....(and) the decrees of the Lord." When we have the fear of the Lord, we will have a good understanding. People may say different things, mostly negative things, about the fear of God. The fear of the Lord not only gives us wisdom but also helps us to get everything that we need in this life. The amazing fact about this wisdom is that anyone could get it from the Lord, irrespective of their age.
Application: Jesus plainly said, "I will warn you whom to fear" (Lk.12:5). I do not need to fear any men, except God. Fearing men always leads to chaos and confusions. Because, it does not merely end with fears. Fearing men could invite/cause so many troubles and complications in my life. On the other hand, when I have the fear of God, I get wisdom. And it gives me the understanding to handle any situation. My fear of the Lord does not indicate my weaknesses or worries of life. Rather, it shows my choice to get the required wisdom for my life. So, I have the fear of the Lord in my heart. It leads me to experience every blessing that the Lord has for me.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for making it easier to get the godly wisdom in my life. You give me wisdom. You are the wisdom. Lord, thank you for the good understanding that you give those who fear you. Help me live faithfully in the light of the wisdom you give me. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 111
Scripture: Luke 12: 54 He(Jesus) said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. 55 And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. 56 Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?
Observation: Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and many others often asked Jesus to show them a sign. Although they saw the miracles, teachings, and life of Jesus, they were asking for a sign because they did not want to accept Jesus. Here, Jesus questioned their failure in interpreting the present time. While they were good at interpreting "the appearance of the earth and the sky," they were not ready to understand their spiritual crisis. They turned a blind eye to the corruption of their religious leaders. They were more concerned about their tradition than the Word of God. They did not pay attention to all the signs that were given by prophets concerning the Messiah. Instead, they were showing their interest in interpreting clouds and winds. So, Jesus called them Hypocrites.
Many prophets, including Abraham, wanted to see the time when Jesus lived on earth. However, here, even after seeing Jesus directly, these people did not have the desire to see him as the promised Messiah. The "present time" mentioned here was a unique time in the history of men and was well attested by so many prophecies. It is important to discern the "present time" to understand the spiritual crisis of the time and to do the right thing that pleases God.
Application: In the modern and technologically advanced world, interpreting the seasons and forecasting the future of economic and social environments are easier with human-friendly technologies and innovations. However, in any given situation, whether physical or spiritual, understanding the "present time" is vital to deal with the issues of the time. I should not simply ignore and reject it. When I discern the "present time," I will see the presence of Jesus. Such a time as this, I should not spend my time and energy in unworthy things. Instead, I should focus on God to discern what he wants me to do now. It may be a small thing. However, it will be necessary and relevant to "this present time." It is my privileged responsibility to do something for God in the "present time."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your wake-up call to discern the present time of the world. Help me to understand the social and spiritual crises of today. Lord, give me your strength to do your will in my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 112
Scripture: Judges 16: 20 And she (Delilah) said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 And the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze shackles. And he ground at the mill in the prison.
Observation: The story of Samson's fall is a warning for us to check where we are and what we do. In Samson's life, we can see one of the major themes of the book of Judges i.e., a gradual decline of obedience to God and his commandments. As we all know, the beginning of Samson's story was wonderful. However, when he forgot his call and stayed in the wrong places to satisfy his sinful desires, he became a victim of his own actions. When Samson continued to stay and sleep to gratify his desires, his enemies were "lying in ambush" to capture him.
When the Philistines came to seize him, Samson said that he would win as he did before. "But he did not know that the Lord had left him." He might have tried to do all that he did before to escape from the enemies. He might have felt very bad about himself when he realized that the Lord was not with him. It was too late to escape. A mighty man who killed a lion with his bare hands was assigned to grind at the mill. However, it was not the end. When Samson prayed to the Lord, he regained his strength. but, he was no more to live in it.
Application: I may have some unique talents or special anointing of the Lord to do what others could not do. However, if I continually ignore the warnings and stay in the wrong places, thinking that I would get victory over sin easily whenever I want, the Lord would not be with me. When I read Samson's story, I know why it had happened to him. He was not with the Lord. In the Bible, we read about another man who also did not know what happened to him. It was Moses. When Moses came down from the Mount Sinai after spending time with the Lord, he did not know the radiance of his face. But others saw it (Exo.34:29,30). I want to spend time with the Lord, not sin anymore. Instead of sleeping at the lap of sin, I have promises of God to keep as my pillow. Now, I know what I should do!
Prayer: God, thank you that you know everything. You know the way that I should go. Thank you for your guiding words that say, “This is the way, walk in it." Lord, help me to listen to your words. Heavenly Father, give me your strength to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 113
Scripture: Luke 13: 23 Someone asked him (Jesus), “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, 24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.
Observation: Here, we see a genuine question from a follower of Jesus: “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” We also may have asked this question several times with the Lord on different occasions. We know the biblical teaching that God wants all people to be saved. However, when we look at Jesus' answer here, it appears that he tells something else instead of giving a straightforward answer to the questioner. When we read this question in its context, we understand that Jesus talks about how to be saved. God is more concerned about the quality of his people than the quantity of their numbers. Jesus' reference to the narrow door indicates about entering the kingdom of God through him. Jesus is " the way and the truth and the life" (Jn.14:6).
Does the narrow door mean that only a few people will be saved? Jews had a common belief that only a few would be saved. Just before this question, Jesus told the people about the parables of the Mustard seeds and the Yeast, in which Jesus compared the Kingdom of God with the mustard seed and the yeast (Lk.13:18-21). This parable gives us a glimpse of the influence and impact of the Kingdom of God among the people. In verse 29, Jesus says many people will come from all corners of the world to participate in the feast of the Kingdom of God. Certainly, many people will be saved. But the question is whether I am ready to enter through the narrow door.
Application: As a follower of Jesus Christ, my focus should be on entering through the door, not counting the number of people. While I follow Christ, I must commit to denying myself and carrying the cross daily. When I allow God to work in my life, so that God's kingdom can grow and permeate society, many people will come to know God and enter the Kingdom of God. I will make every effort to follow Jesus diligently.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for answering one of my heart’s questions. Lord, help me to take the narrow road that leads to life, instead of choosing the broad road that leads to destruction. May your Holy Spirit strengthen me to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 114
Scripture: Psalm 115: 17 It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence;18 it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore.
Observation: Although the last two verses of Psalm 115 appear disconnected from the other verses of the chapter, they convey an important message to us. In our present scenario, these verses are very relevant to us. We all know that a dead person cannot do anything. Nobody can escape from death. However, when we lose someone dear to us, we find it difficult to accept it. Some people have started to question God and his existence. During such times, we may hear taunting questions from within and without. One good thing we can do about a dead person is to praise God for his/her life. A dead person cannot do that. Only we who are alive can praise God. Does it make any sense?
When King Hezekiah recovered from his deadly sickness, he also said something similar to these verses (Isaiah 38:18,19). Our God is not dead, so we are alive. How about a person who is spiritually dead and has lost his relationship with God? They also cannot praise God until they set their things straight before God. A spiritually alive person will praise God, "both now and forevermore," irrespective of the environment.
Application: When I face taunting questions that could shake my faith in God, I should remember that my God is not dead. I need to realize that I worship the living God who has concern for me. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Heb. 13:8). He says, "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades" (Rev.1:18). Because he lives, I also will live (John 14:19). If I go through a spiritual dullness or find it difficult to praise God, I need to remember God. From my breathing to all I have in this world are from him. "What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?" As a living person, I will praise the Lord now and forever.
Prayer: Father, thank you for every blessing that you have given me. Above all, you are my God. You are the everlasting father. God, help me be thankful and praise you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 115
Scripture: Luke 14: 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Observation: In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus starts with a hyperbole (to emphasize his point, not to take its literal meaning) to explain the cost of being his disciple. In this passage, Jesus highlights three important things about being a disciple of him: 1) Loving Jesus more than any other person, 2) Carrying the cross (daily), 3) Willingness to give up everything for Christ' sake. Jesus says that a person who wants to build a tower would estimate the cost first, and a king who prepares his army for a battle would think about his army's strength compared to his enemy. Here, Jesus does not discourage a person from becoming his disciple. Rather, he encourages everyone to be his disciple.
A person who has not enough money and strength would not go for a building project and war, respectively. “In the same way,” those who consider (boast on) their strengths and power cannot be Jesus' disciples. He expects those who want to become his disciples should be ready to give up everything to follow him. Counting the cost here does not imply whether we are capable or worthy of following Christ. It places a challenge in front of us: are we ready for an absolute surrender to Christ?
Application: As a disciple of Jesus, I need to seek first God and his kingdom than anything else. This doesn't mean that I should hate my family and relatives. It shows my priority to God. To follow Jesus, I should be ready to carry the cross, i.e., to pay the price for it. A Christian life without the cross is a life without Christ. I must be willing to submit my all to Christ, keeping nothing for my own sake. Like Paul, "whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ," I want to say the same and live for Christ.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for making it easier to become your disciple. I can be your disciple by loving you with an absolute surrender. Help me to follow you every day with love and humility. You are my everything. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 116
Scripture: Luke 15:1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable:
Observation: In Luke 15, we see three parables that Jesus told to the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Sometimes, we forget why Jesus said these parables. Here we read that the tax collectors and sinners came to listen to Jesus' teaching. Whenever Jesus spent time with the sinners and tax collectors, he influenced them and changed their lives, which was never vice versa. The Gospel tells many such stories of transformation in the life of sinners. However, those who called themselves as guardians of the law did not understand Jesus' logic of welcoming the sinners. For them, he was doing something against the social norms of the day. The three parables we read in Luke 15 emphasize the joy and excitement of finding the lost ones. We can see a gradual increase in both the value of the lost and the joy in finding it or getting it back. Luke 15: 7 and10 tells us about the prevailing joy in heaven and among the angels when a sinner repents. The parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the joy of the father who was waiting for his son to return home.
Sometimes, when a notorious or undesirable person wants to come to Christ, do we show the same joy and excitement that we show when we find something we lost? Instead of expressing our happiness for their willingness to come to the Lord, we may express our fears and apprehensions. At times, we may question their motives as well. However, Jesus rejoices at the repentance of a sinner. As we see in the three parables of Jesus, the progressive expression of the joy of heaven, angels, and the Father reminds us that we should be ready to find and accept the lost ones.
Application: If the repentance of one sinner would cause "more rejoicing in heaven," how much more should I be happy about it! The eagerness of the shepherd to find a lost sheep, the woman's curiosity to find a lost coin, and the loving father who ran toward his lost son to accept him with a loving embrace all remind me how important it is to seek and save the lost. When a sinner comes to God with a repenting heart, it brings a smile on God's face. Then, the sinner's transformed life brings more joy to his family and his society (e.g., Zacchaeus). I should be open to receiving someone who wants to come to Christ, irrespective of his history. I should remember that "every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future." Finding the lost gives me more joy than when it was with me before I lost it. The only difference now is that I know its value.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your love to accept me when I came to you. As a sinner saved by your grace, help me to show your love and kindness to others who need your salvation. Lord, help me be involved in seeking the lost and sharing the joy with you in finding them. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 117
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Observation: There are many interpretations given for Psalm 118. However, in all the interpretations, one common thing is that this psalm was used as a thanksgiving song in Jewish prayers during their important festivals. Psalm 118 is a part of "Egyptian Hallel," which consists of 6 Psalms (Ps113-118) in Jewish liturgy. The psalmist remembers God's deliverance from his enemies and expresses his thanksgiving to the Lord. "This very day" in verse 24 alludes to the day God made the rejected stone as the cornerstone. God can make a person who is considered as unworthy become an indispensable person.
One thing that we need to remember every day is, "This is the day that the Lord has made." Our situations, struggles, problems, jobs, positions etc. differ from one another. Being happy today is very important in our life. When we remember God's past deliverance, we can thank God for today and be happy about it. Our life situations will not be the same forever. God wants us to be happy every day, regardless of our situation. Our rejoicing today is a prelude to our deliverance tomorrow. Our dependence on God keeps us happy, not our life situations.
Application: God has done so many amazing things in my life. I thank God for his faithfulness in lifting me up to the present situation. As the psalmist says, "I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done" (v.17). This day, this minute, and even this very second I breathe are God-given gifts to me. I cannot get it back If I miss it. I may be unhappy about my past life, but I can be happy today. Instead of looking at my present situation, when I remember God, I can be happy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance you give me. Thank you for your enduring love. Help me to be happy today. Lord, you are the source of my joy and strength. Help me to depend on you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 118
Scripture: Deuteronomy 27: 9 Then Moses and the Levitical priests said to all Israel, “Be silent, Israel, and listen! You have now become the people of the Lord your God. 10 Obey the Lord your God and follow his commands and decrees that I give you today.”
Observation: In Deuteronomy 27 and 28, we see a list of blessings and curses that would come upon the Israelites based on their obedience to the Lord and his commands. Some people think that these two chapters give more verses on curses than on God's blessings. When we read these chapters, we understand that these blessings or curses will be the results of either obedience or disobedience, respectively. When we look at the sentences that start with "If," we understand how it is connected with the command of God that we read in Deut.27:10. Although the Israelites became the people of God a long time ago, here we read that "You have now become the people of the Lord....Obey the Lord..today." This event must have renewed the covenant and reaffirmed the Israelites' commitment to the Lord. In the loud and noisy environment of the world, we may not be able to hear what the Lord expects from us. O my soul, be silent and listen to what the Lord speaks to you today.
Application: Obedience to the Lord and following his commands always brings forth all the blessings of the earth and heaven. What I do decides what I will get in my life! If I obey God, I will see all the blessings in my life. However, the greatest blessing is that I belong to God. I am one among the people of the Lord my God. Every day, I need to remind myself of this and look at God to know what areas he expects me to obey today. As a child of God, I choose to obey him and follow his commands every day of my life. This is my choice!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for remembering me and renewing your loving relationship every day. You are concerned about my day-to-day life. Lord, help me to obey and follow your commands today. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 90
Scripture: Psalm 91: 9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
Observation: Psalm 91 is one of the most used psalms by believers who trust and seek God's protection. God's place is a safe haven. However, a person starts to experience God's protection when s/he openly proclaims his/her trust in God. Those who make God their refuge live a protected life from the attacks of enemies and diseases. Whether it is a day or a night, a person protected by God will not be affected by enemies and diseases like a wicked person. When we say God is our safe haven, we experience both spiritual and physical protection. How much more protected we are! Seeking God's protection and the protection that God gives us, they both are acts of LOVE.
Application: When I say I trust God, it is not an expression of my weaknesses or incompetence. Instead, I express my love and trust in God. When the most high God is ready to offer his shelter to me, I can find no better place to live than it, for he gives me the best protection that goes beyond any human comprehension. Sometimes, I may not be able to explain how God protects me. But I can experience his protection every day, with the peace he gives.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my refuge and my fortress. Nothing can harm me when I am under your protection. Even if I have to go through tough times, you will help me come out victoriously because you love me. Lord, help me to love and trust you better every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 91
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31: 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Observation: In Deuteronomy chapter 31, when Moses was giving his final instruction to Joshua to lead the Israelites, we see the repeated occurrence of the phrase "Be strong and courageous" (v. 7,8, 23). Moses would not be there to lead the people into the promised land. Moses was aware that his earthly life would come to an end soon. But God is always available to lead his people. When leaders change, or God's people face an attack or threats from enemies, God encourages his people by saying, "Be strong and courageous" (Josh.1, 1 Ch.22:13, 2 Ch. 32:7). Godly people need not worry or be afraid about the future. Because, as we see in the bible passages mentioned here, God always goes with his people. God never leaves his people nor forsakes them. No matter what challenges or dangers are ahead of us; God comes with us. He wants us to be confident to face them without any fear. With God's ever presence with us, we can "be strong and courageous."
Application: When I face difficult times of my life, when I fear about the changes that are taking place in my life, when I encounter great challenges in my life, and when I am about to enter a new place or start a new thing, I should remember that God is with me and he would never forsake me. Instead of worrying and fearing about the future, I need to "be strong and courageous" by remembering God's constant presence with me. My fears and worries do not help me. They could collapse my strength and peace. God comes with me, and he is the source of my strength and courage.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your unchanging love in the changing world. As I enter a new day or a new phase of my life, help me remember that you are with me. My God, irrespective of the situation I face, give me the required strength to walk with you in all of my life, to "be strong and courageous." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 92
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33: 29 Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights."
Observation: This is the concluding verse of the final blessing of Moses, the man of God, to the Israelites. When Moses saw the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, how the Lord protected the Israelites and provided their needs during the forty years of the wilderness journey, he said in astonishment, "Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you." They are unique because there is no one like their God (v.26). He is the eternal God! As we see here, God's protection, providence, and victory are not just things of the past. He will continue to provide his help till his people win against their enemies. As long as his people live under God's rule, they will live safely. The people of God are indeed blessed!
Application: When others talk about the blessedness of my life, I should remember that it is God who provides all that I need and protects me. My God is worthy of praise and worship. The God of heaven has given me the privilege of being one among his people. When the Lord himself is my shield and helper, how much should I cooperate with him to do his will for my life! Living with God is something that is really unique and an unparalleled blessing.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your amazing grace that saves me. You care for my every need. Thank you for your provision. I praise you for your protection thus far. My savior, help me today to enjoy the blessedness of living under your care and safety with joy and contentment. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 93
Scripture: Psalm 94: 12 Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law.
Observation: In Psalm 94, we read about two types of people and how the Lord disciplines them. The wicked people who do not fear God and do evil deeds are warned of the Lord's punishment. On the other hand, psalm 94 says of the blessedness of the righteous person whom God disciplines (v.12-19). While the evildoers receive warnings about their punishment, God disciplines his people to correct them to live according to his word. He does this to help the person he disciplines to understand the Scripture and know what God wants to do with him/her. We should know that God disciplines us for our good (Heb.12:10). It may be unpleasant for a while until we understand God's intended purposes. Here is a reminder: when God disciplines us, he helps, supports, consoles, and sends his relief. "For the Lord will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance" (v.14).
Application: When God disciplines me, I should turn my attention to God's word to know what changes he expects from me instead of complaining about the difficulties. When God disciplines, he prunes and purifies me. I need to understand that God does this because he loves me. When I allow God to discipline me, how precious it would be! Having the best teacher on my side is the privilege of the Christian life. When I correct myself based on the Lord's teaching, I get a clear picture of his will for my life.
Prayer: Lord, you are the great teacher who helps your children to walk in your way, according to your word. You want me to be holy, like you. Oh, my heavenly teacher, help me to understand your love and give me the wisdom to obey your words. Lord, help me today to be with you and to understand your words. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 94
Scripture: Luke 4:5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours." 8 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'"
Observation: After forty days of fasting, Jesus was hungry. He must have been physically tired and weak. Here we read how Satan tried to spoil the purpose of Jesus' incarnation with various means. Satan was able to show the whole world instantly in his attempt to tempt Jesus. This might have been a mental or spiritual vision. With a condition, Satan was ready to give his authority over all the world to Jesus. Satan's tempting condition was that Jesus should worship him. Jesus could have gained power and authority over the earth without dying on the cross. But he did not do it because it was against the very purpose of His mission to redeem the whole world. Jesus responded to him with the Word of God and said, 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.' In Matthew 4:10, Jesus immediately responded, "Away from me, Satan!"
How many Christians who went through similar temptations had lost their call in pursuit of worldly possessions, positions, and power! They think that some small compromises are not big sins, and God would understand their situation. We need to understand that anything that stops us from worshipping God or entices us to worship something else is actually not from God. Notice how Jesus used the Scripture passage when he responded to Satan. When Peter did not understand about the crucifixion and rebuked Jesus, Jesus told him, "You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns" (Mt.16:23). "Today, if only you would hear his voice, 'Do not harden your hearts'" (Ps.95:8).
Application: Satan wants all people to worship him. He tempts every person to turn their attention away from God. When I face such temptations of gaining worldly things, the first thing I need to do is to check whether it is from God or not. For God does not tempt anyone (Jam.1:13). Sometimes, my lust for certain things may mislead me. Secondly, I should be aware that the devil is "a liar and the father of lies" (Jn.8:44). Then, without giving even a foothold to Satan, I should boldly proclaim what the Word of God says. As Paul writes to Ephesians, the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit (Eph.6:17).
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to stand against evil temptations and to worship God alone. I cannot serve two masters. Dear God, help me to recognize anything that hinders me from worshipping you. Lord, give me your strength today to prioritize the concerns of God and live accordingly. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 95
Scripture: Psalm 96: 9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.
Observation: Since Psalm 96 closely resembles 1 Chronicles 16:23-33, some say that it was written by David. This psalm first encourages its readers and hearers to sing and praise God. Secondly, it gives reasons to praise and worship God. Thirdly, it gives a unique picture of how to worship God! This distinguishes the key difference between the worship of God Yahweh and idol worship. In Hebrew, the phrase "in the splendor of his holiness" may refer to more than one meaning. Some may think that whether it says about the holiness of God or the holy clothing of a person who worships God. There is no doubt about God's holiness. He is the Holy God. This makes him unique among all gods. However, what makes him even more unique is that he expects us to worship "in the splendor of his holiness."
Holy God expects holy worship! How we come before God really matters to him. Does this mean that we cannot worship God if we are not holy! NO. God repeatedly says, "I am the Lord, who makes you holy." All we need is to acknowledge our true state before him and ask him for forgiveness with true repentance. He purifies us so that we can worship God. How do we come to worship God?
Application: I hear a lot of Christian songs that help me sing and praise God almighty. Praising and singing about God are good starters to worship God. However, God is pleased with the worship that is made "in the splendor of his holiness." No other ornamentation or clothing pleases God more than holy worship. I should not say that "I am not a holy person, so I will not worship God." He removes my fears and makes me holy when I come before him with godly fear. He is able!
Prayer: Father God, you are the Holy One of Israel! You want me to be holy, just as you are. Holy God, discipline me so that I may partake in your holiness. It is not just when I come before you, but help me always lead a holy life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 96
Scripture: Luke 5: 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
Observation: When we read Luke 5:8, we may wonder what Peter saw at that moment! Peter, a professional fisherman, must have been surprised when Jesus told him, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch." Fishermen prefer to fish early in the morning or at nighttime, for it is the best time to catch fish. It is unusual that Peter and his men caught nothing here, even after they tried all night. However, when he let down the nets in obedience to Jesus' words, he saw something fresh about Jesus. Obviously, it was not the first time he had been with Jesus. Until then, Peter may have known Jesus as a carpenter's son from Nazareth, or a teacher, or a miracle worker, and so on. When he saw the abundance of fish in their nets, he must have understood that Jesus was more than any other person in the world.
When people realize the nearness of God, they become aware of their real sinful state and unworthiness to stand close to him. When Isaiah saw God, he became conscious of his actual state in front of the Holy God (Is.6:5). Notice what Peter did: "He fell at Jesus' knees" and said, "Lord." In other words, as soon as he realized that all his skills and traits were nothing before Jesus, he surrendered to Jesus. See the difference in how Peter called Jesus - Master Jesus became the Lord Jesus. After that, Jesus made him a fisher of men. After this incident, he and his friends left their nets to be with Jesus permanently. They were no longer occasional visitors to Jesus. Afterward, they began to follow Jesus closely wherever he went.
Application: When I come near to Jesus, when I have a personal encounter with Jesus, I get a clear picture of who Jesus is and who I am! Seeing Jesus in the distance or meeting him once in a while would give me a respectable understanding of Jesus. Some people do not want to come near Jesus because they want to avoid exposure about their true state. Instead, they maintain a distance from Jesus and marvel at him. I should not do this. Until I allow him to come close to me or go near him, I will miss an excellent opportunity to know him better and personally and realize my true being. When I realize that Jesus is my Lord, my life is transformed totally. Then, I become a new person by living with him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for continually giving me many opportunities to come near you, though I am not worthy to come before you. Thank you for your call that changes me as your follower and a disciple. Lord, help me stay close to you today and know more about you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 97
Scripture: Luke 5: 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better.'”
Observation: When we look at the context of Luke 5:38, 39, we see the questions and doubts raised against Jesus and his disciples. Against the common Jewish practice of that time, Jesus dined with sinners and tax collectors. Pharisees called Jesus a friend of sinners. They raised questions concerning the practice of Jesus' disciples about fasting and prayer and compared it with the practice of the disciples of John and the Pharisees. John lived an ascetic life with simple food (Mt.3:4). His disciples may have learned about fasting from him as an act of repentance. Moreover, John was in prison. So, his disciples may have fasted for his release. Pharisees practiced a strict religious life with a list of so many do's and don'ts. This includes regular fasting (Lk.18:12). In the Pentateuch, we read about many festivals according to the law of Moses. Israelites were not commanded to fast regularly except on the day of atonement (Lev.16:29).
Here, did Jesus say anything against fasting? NO. In fact, he himself fasted (Matthew 4); In his Sermon on the Mount, he spoke about the spiritual benefit of voluntary fasting (Matthew 6). The major difference between Jesus' ministry and others was that Jesus preached a new way of living that embraced all and gave hope to those who accepted him, irrespective of their background. The way he chose his disciples, his love for sinners and tax collectors, and his teaching were completely different from the customs of those days. Pharisees and the disciples of John did not understand it. So, Jesus explained the newness of his teaching and ministry with a double parable. The Gospel of Jesus offers a fresh vision for our life. We should not try to mix it with our old customs. Unlike the Pharisees, who were not ready to change their perception, we need to be open-minded to accept Jesus' teaching and live accordingly.
Application:* Jesus wants me to have a fresh look at my life. He wants to change the way I look at others. Instead of judging others, I need to show Christ's love to all. I should not hesitate to go near the people who are hated by society. They, too, need God's love and the Gospel. I should be ready to follow Jesus and his footsteps, not the customs of the world.
Prayer: Jesus, though you hated sins and lived a holy life on the earth, you were a friend of sinners, gave them an opportunity to come to God, and transformed their lives. You have changed me in many things. However, as a child of God, I need to become like you. Lord, help me to live and to speak just like you. Jesus, help me to lead the new life of following you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 98
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 99: 8 Lord our God, you answered them; you were to Israel a forgiving God, though you punished their misdeeds
Observation: Psalm 99 says of the God who is holy, righteous, and Love. God shows his love by listening to our prayers and answering them. This psalm refers to the names of the three great men of God who prayed for the Israelites and spoke with God. God answered their prayers. When we read Ps 99:8, it reminds us about God's self-revealing words to Moses when he passed in front of him (Exo.34:6,7). It was the time when Moses was praying for the sins committed by the Israelites concerning the Golden calf matter. God answers our prayers because he loves us. However, he disciplines us so that we may not fall again in the same matter we committed a sin against the Lord. It is like a punishment of a loving father/mother who wants to correct his/her children for their misdeeds. The Holy God who loves us establishes righteousness among people by his rule. Take note of the repeated words in Psalm 99. The God who rules heaven and earth keeps his relationship alive with his people.
Application: Some Christians misunderstand that the God of the Old Testament was angry and jealous. They may say that he was not always a loving God. However, the Bible clearly says God is holy, loving, and righteous. These three characteristics of God are eternal and inseparable from one another. I must have a clear idea of who my God is! The holy and righteous God loves me. It is really an amazing grace! He showers his grace upon me by forgiving me. However, He wants me to realize my misdeeds and repent. As the loving heavenly Father, he confronts and corrects me whenever I go astray. With a clear understanding of God and his characteristics, I must live a life that pleases him. I have Jesus, who is my advocate with the Father God (1 Jn.2:1). He is sufficient to protect me from any dangers of sin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your love and grace, which forgive me. Thank you for the Word of God that helps me to understand you and your love. Lord, help me always have an intact relationship with you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 99
Scripture: Psalm 100: 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Observation: Psalm 100 invites all people to come and praise God. Some may think, why should we praise God? This short psalm precisely mentions some of the important reasons to praise God. First of all, the Lord is the God. There is no one like him. We need to know him as the God. Not only that, he is the creator who made us. "we are his people, the sheep of his pasture" (v.3). Is this not enough to praise God! The Psalm lists a few more reasons to praise the Lord. He is the good God. His love is enduring love forever. Look at his faithfulness! It does not end with us. His faithfulness continues through all generations. The Bible testifies to God's continual faithfulness. What more reason do we need to praise the Lord! Shall we enter (this day) his gates with thanksgiving and praise?
Application: I find no difficulty in praising God when everything goes smoothly. However, when I go through failures, frustrations, and disappointments, and when I do not get what I want, sometimes, I feel as if there is no reason to praise God. It happens only when I look at my situation. In such times, I need to look upon my creator God and know he cares for me. I belong to him. He is the good God whose love endures forever. God is good all the time! I may not know the reason for my present situation. But, it should not be a hindrance to praise God. If my current situation does not motivate me to praise God, I can think of God's faithfulness in the last hundred days of my life. How many amazing things he has done to me in this period! What can stop me from praising God!
Prayer: Good God, thank you for your enduring love for me. Thank you for the promise of your never-ending faithfulness. Lord God, I praise you with all my heart. No words can fully express my heart that praises you! Help me today to enter your presence with thanksgiving and with a heart of praise. Hallelujah, Praise ye the Lord. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 100
Scripture: Luke 7: 6 So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
Observation: Here, we see another instance that amazed Jesus. Nevertheless, this time, the faith of the centurion amazed Jesus. In the earlier incident, we read that Jesus was amazed at the lack of faith of his hometown people (Mt.6:6). As compared to the brief account of Matthew, Luke gives more information about the Centurion story. It was a common practice in the ancient Middle East to send intermediaries to speak for someone. These mediators' words were considered the words of the person who sent them. In this Gospel narrative, notably, two things draw our attention.
First, the centurion understood his worthiness to come before Jesus. It explains his respect for Jesus and his unworthiness to stand before the Lord. This is possibly a reference to his moral and sinful state. He did not consider his high position in the Roman military, his wealthy status, and his social acceptance as an eligibility to come before Jesus. Secondly, and importantly, as a man of authority, he had a better understanding of the power of Jesus’ words. He didn't even ask Jesus to heal his servant but asked him to say a word. He believed the word of Jesus was powerful enough to heal his servant.
This was a spectacular miracle that a person who was far away from Jesus received his healing through the power of his word. It was an unusual miracle! We need to take note of the centurion's understanding of his worthiness and the power of the word of authority. Jesus' word has everything we need. It is powerful!
Application: When I ask myself a question that whether I am worthy to come before Jesus, I understand that I could come before Jesus only by his grace and love, not because of any merits I earned. My money, social status, and powerful position do not make me worthy to stand before the Holy God. When I humble myself and confess my unworthiness to stand before God, HE sees it. I will see miracles in my life when I understand the power of Jesus' words. My faith and the lack of my faith both could amaze Jesus. I want Jesus to see my faith in him and his words.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for helping me understand my actual state and the power of your words. You show no partiality with anyone. Help me be humble and seek your word for my life situations. Lord, say the word for my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 101
Scripture: Psalm 102: 17 He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea.
Observation: Psalm 102 is "a prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord." The intense pain and depression of the psalmist's distressing situation are described in verses 3-11. As the psalmist thought that he was on the brink of death, he remembered God and expressed his hope in him. The eternal God never rejects a prayer of a person in great need. God listens, responds, and answers the prayer of an afflicted person. When the psalmist saw God during the time of his sorrowful state, he understood that God’s love endures forever. Though heaven and earth may change, God never changes but remains the same. Like the psalmist, when we go through affliction, we need to remember our everlasting and eternal God, who never changes. He will answer our prayers. He will change our misery. When we look upon the unchanging God, we understand that our present (distressing) situation is not permanent. For the Lord God will not despise our plea.
Application: When I face uncertainty, depression, loneliness, grief, fears, and taunts, I need to look upon God instead of seeing my situations. God is my hope in such difficult times. Though no one helps me, God will take care of me. He answers my prayer. In the changing world, God never changes. I put my trust in God. I will seek his face when I face any distress.
Prayer: Everlasting God, thank you for helping me to understand who you are. In a world that is filled with uncertainties, Lord, you are my hope. Help me to remain in you. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 102
Scripture: Luke 8: 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”
Observation: Some Christians misunderstand this passage (Luke 8:17-18) and question whether God would take away what we have. However, when we read the passage in its context, we can understand what Jesus tells us. In Luke 8, we read that Jesus interpreted the meaning of the 'Parable of the Sower' to his disciples. Jesus told them about four types of people who hear the Word of God. There is no mystery in the Gospel of Jesus. Jesus wants to reveal the secret of God's kingdom and make it known to all. Truth cannot be concealed in a clay jar. Those who accept the truth see the light and become a light that removes the darkness of the world. Truth should be kept on a lampstand so that all who come to light may benefit from it. Verse 17 suggests that all the secrets will be revealed to us.
The key verse in this passage is, "therefore consider carefully how you listen." How we listen to the Word matters to God. The Parable of the Sower is not just about the seeds that fell on different grounds. It says of different persons who heard God's word. Not all who listen to the Word of God will be saved and produce multi-fold results. Those who keep God's word in the right place will get the desired results. Others, they would lose even what they think they have. Notice the words and understand the differences. They do not have the word, but they think they have it. Because they did not give an appropriate place for the Word of God, it will be taken from them.
Application: Jesus not only likes to reveal the secret truths about God and the Kingdom of God. He wants me to understand the truth and give light to others by sharing it with them. It is not about how bright I am or how far my light goes. Instead, it is about how carefully I listen to the Word of God and put it in the right place for its growth and for a fruitful harvest. Merely listening to the Word of God is not enough, but when I obey God's word, I can expect God's results (James 1:22-25). Although listening to the Word of God is important, it would not be complete without putting it into practice.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for explaining the truth, which helps me understand the secrets of the Kingdom of God. Help me listen to your words carefully and practice them every day diligently. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 103
"What is your name?" - A simple question that may reveal legion of things!
Read: Joshua 21,22; Psalm 104; Luke 8:26-56
Scripture: Luke 8: 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.
Observation: Here we see a man who was in a terrible condition of demon possession. He was uncontrollable by chains, as he was under the control of the demon. Though he was alive, he lived in tombs. However, when he saw Jesus, all the control of the demon started to crumble at Jesus' feet. When Jesus asked his name, the demons that lived in him responded to Jesus. They had such control over him. It was certainly not a single demon. There was a legion of demons in him. In the Roman army, the term legion would refer to a division of 6000 men. This man was possessed by a large number of demons. All these demons were so afraid of Jesus. But, Jesus was concerned about the deliverance of the man. When the people of the area came to see what had happened, they saw the same demon-possessed man "sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind" (v.35). The man wanted to follow Jesus. But Jesus told the man to return to his home to testify what God has done to him. Interestingly, this man witnessed what Jesus did to him to the whole town.
Application: When somebody asks my name, how would it be if someone else gives an answer instead of me. If that unknown person lives in me and would speak forcefully on behalf of me without my permission, certainly my life will be in a mess. Isn't it? The man we see in Luke 8 had many demons in him. I may not live in such a demon-controlled life. However, at times, particularly when I am provoked to do something, or when I face sinful temptations, I notice that instead of me, some things within me try to use the situation to take a control and to enslave me. It may be my anger or my bitter past experiences or my self or my weaknesses and so on. When things go out of control, I need to fall at the feet of Jesus. The number of things that disturbs me is not a matter to Jesus. There is no better place to deal with such things than the feet of Jesus. When I sit with him, I find peace and the right mindset. I am with Jesus. I belong to Jesus. I will not live as a living dead, but will live as a living testimony of Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for delivering people from the control of demons. You are my savior. I live in your care. If any known or unknown things try to take control of my life, help me to bring it to your feet. Thank you for giving me the peace that transcends all understanding. Lord Jesus, guard my heart and my thoughts. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 104
Scripture: Joshua 24: 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Observation: The Bible tells us about the final words of many great men of God. In Joshua 24, we see Joshua's final speech with the Israelites. After briefly recapitulating what the Lord has done to the Israelites, Joshua challenged the people to serve the Lord. At that time, Israelites were living in the promised land, which God won for them. They did not need to go to any wars. They could enjoy the harvest of the land they had just received. The promised land was very fertile. As the Lord said, it was "a land flowing with milk and honey." After that, the Israelites would get everything they needed.
Joshua might have feared that the people may go away from the Lord when they live in prosperity. While challenging the Israelites to serve the Lord, Joshua reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Lord with his own family. Joshua did not let them go immediately when people responded, saying, "We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God” (v.18). Rather, he reminded them about who God was. Thus, Joshua led the Israelites to renew their commitment to serving the Lord. Because the Israelites' possession of the promised land was an act of God. As for Joshua, Israelites were to decide on whom they would serve. We, too, need the same commitment to serving the Lord.
Application: Generally, people do not seek God desperately all the time, as they seek him in their times of need. I should remember God even when I have everything that I need. I must serve the Lord faithfully at all times. My God is the greatest blessing I may have on this earth. So, I will serve the Lord.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for all the blessings you give in my life. Lord, you are sufficient to guide me always. Instead of keeping my eyes on the blessings, help me to fix my eyes on you to know more about you. I want to serve you, oh God! Help me to live as a faithful servant who obeys you always. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 105
Scripture: Psalm 106: 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin. 44 Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45 for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented.
Observation: In the history of the Israelites, one thing that catches our attention is their repeated disobedience against God, even after they saw all the wondrous works of the Lord. However, when in their distress, they cried out to the Lord God, he saved them by remembering his covenantal promise. When we read about their rebellious acts that they started right from the beginning of their Exodus journey, we may wonder how these people could ever forget all of God's marvelous deeds done to the Pharaoh and the people of Egypt! When they rebelled against God, as we read here, "they wasted away in their sin." Disobedience to God is a sin.
God saves us when we call him for his help. However, when we allow sin to creep into our lives, it makes havoc on us. When we realize our mistakes and ask God for his help to deliver us from the unpleasant things we invited to come upon us by disobeying God, he remembers his covenant and hears our prayers. His great love protects us from any dangers. Because the Lord is good, his love endures forever. How many times did Israelites sin against God? How many times did God save them! Many times, indeed!
Application: When I read about the repeated disobedience of Israelites, I could easily judge them as unfaithful and ungrateful to God. However, when I think of my shortcomings in serving God and my disobedience to his word, I may find myself worse than the Israelites in obeying God's word. When I am trapped in sin due to my disobedience, I must repent and call upon God for his salvation. The sooner I come to God, the sooner I can experience his deliverance in my life. He is great in love. "His love has no limits, His grace has no measure." His love is covenantal love. I should remember the covenant of God and keep myself away from anything that could lead me to disobey him. How many times did he rescue me! How many times shall I praise God! Many times.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your great love for me. Help me to realize my sins, if any. Instead of hiding myself in the darkness, help me to come to you with repentance. Thank you for answering my prayers. Lord, I praise you for all the mighty works you have done so many times in my life. "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting." Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 106
Scripture: Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
Observation: Jesus' sending of seventy-two of his followers with clear instructions is exclusively recorded in the Gospel of Luke. In the previous chapter, we read that Jesus sent his twelve disciples with similar instructions (Lk.9:1,2). When Jesus sent his disciples two by two, he restricted them to go only to the lost sheep of Israel (Mt.10:5, 6). Here, these seventy-two people had no such restrictions. They could go wherever Jesus wanted them to go. The main thing here is the emphasis on the need for more workers to go to the harvest field. So, Jesus told them to pray that the Lord of harvest may send more workers for his harvest. Finally, Jesus sent them to be the workers for the harvest.
Even today, we see the same need in the Christian mission fields. Because this harvest is not a seasonal one. We can see it throughout the year and throughout the world. However, "the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." We must realize the needs of the Kingdom of God and should pray for it. If the Lord wants to send us to the harvest field, we should be prepared to GO without saying any excuses. This harvest field could be the area we presently live in or a nearby place, or it maybe a place afar. Whatever it may be, we need to ask the Lord to send more workers, and we should be ready to do our part in it.
Application: I must realize that there is a need for more workers to collect the harvest. Jesus wants me to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send more workers. Praying for Christian missions and praying for souls to be saved and gathered in the Church is important to me. When I pray for the harvest, I should be ready to do what the Lord asks me instead of finding easy alternatives. When I obey God, I will see great things in and through my life.
Prayer: Father, thank you for turning my attention to praying for the harvest. Lord, I realize the need for more workers for the harvest of souls. I pray that more Christian workers will go and share the Gospel with the unreached people groups. Lord, help me to understand my role in this great cause. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 107
Scripture: Luke 10: 29 But he (an expert in the law) wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Observation: Here, we see the underlying question that Jesus answered through the parable of the good Samaritan. The expert of the Law knew about who his God was. However, as a Jew, he may have struggled to understand the word "neighbor." Since the word "neighbor" does not point to a particular person, people may think it is ambiguous. In those days, even within the Jewish community, there were divisions and infights based on their beliefs. So, loving a fellow Jew itself had a lot of connotations.
In this context, Jesus helped an expert of the Law in a simple but powerful way to understand "who might be a neighbor?" through the parable of the Good Samaritan. A man, most likely a Jew, was severely beaten up by the robbers as he was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. However, a priest and a Levite who had a high reputation among the Jews were not willing to help him. Instead of helping the man, they simply "passed by on the other side." But, a Samaritan, who was from a community that Jews hated and considered as low, showed mercy to the wounded man. His act of kindness went beyond the social norms of the day. Jesus conveyed a clear message that helped the expert of the Law to understand the answer to his question.
The important thing here is not about understanding "who might be our neighbor." Instead, we need to show kindness to our neighbor, like the good Samaritan. Let us remember: this is something that we must do to inherit eternal life.
Application: Many Christians are ready to do anything for the Lord. However, many of them do not show similar enthusiasm for loving and helping others. They may have their own reasons for that. However, Jesus is the Good Samaritan. The message of the Good Samaritan story is that I should be a good Samaritan to the people in need. Without any partiality and discrimination, I need to show love to others just as I love myself. Irrespective of religion, race, caste, gender, and color, I should show the love of God to all people. Other than me, all the others are my neighbors.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for helping me to understand who my neighbor is and what I should do to him/her. Loving Lord, help me to show Christly love to my neighbors. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 108
Scripture: Luke 11: 1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
Observation: In Jesus' life, prayer was inseparable. Jesus had a regular prayer life. The Gospel tells us of the occasions of his short prayers (for e.g., Jn.11:41,42) as well as the times he spent in prayer for the whole night or alone (Mt. 14:23; Mk.1:35; Lk.5:16, 6:12). In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught about prayer regarding how to pray and how not to pray (Mt. 6:5-15). Jesus' prayer life impacted his disciples' lives. Here we see one such thing. We do not know how long they waited for Jesus to finish his prayer. But as they were waiting for Jesus, they would have seen how Jesus prayed. They also may have wanted to pray like Jesus. So, one of his disciples asked him, "Lord, teach us to pray." Notice the request here: He was not asking Jesus to teach a prayer so that he could use it in times of need. Rather, he asked Jesus to teach them "to pray," not a prayer.
One may expect that Jesus would have taught us how to spend more time in prayer or how to pray for a long time. But Jesus taught them a short prayer. This model prayer gives an outline to praying. After this, in the next nine verses (Lk.11:5-13), Jesus interpreted the first-word phrase he taught, "Father"- how good the Father is and about his spiritual gifts. This passage also emphasizes and encourages us to pray fervently.
Application: Jesus' prayer life is the perfect example for every Christian. His busy life schedule did not prevent him from praying. He did not teach his disciples about how to spend more time in prayer. But he showed them that through his life of prayer. As a disciple of Jesus, I want to pray like him. In my prayer, my focus should be on God the Father and his spiritual gifts, not any material blessings. For he knows what I need even before I ask. Prayer is not about asking for worldly things we need but about spending time with God. Then, time will be no matter.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for teaching me to pray, through your life and words. Instead of making excuses about finding time to pray, help me follow you to have a regular prayer life. May your Holy Spirit enable me "to pray" every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 109
Scripture: Luke 11:39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?
Observation: When Jesus was in the house of a Pharisee, before the Pharisee served him the meal, Jesus wanted to teach him an important lesson related to the practice of Pharisees. It appears that Jesus deliberately did not wash his hands. When the Pharisees were looking at him in surprise as Jesus did not wash his hands, Jesus also told him about the importance of cleaning the inside part. A cup that is cleaned only on the outside part may look nice. However, if it is not washed thoroughly in and out, it would be unfit to use, no matter how costly or beautiful it is. People would notice only the outer part. We see various cultures across the globe give importance to external cleaning. But Jesus made it clear that God first sees our hearts rather than our outward cleanliness.
Application: People say cleanliness is next to godliness. However, they mostly speak about outward cleanliness and are reluctant to speak about inward cleanliness. But Jesus always speaks about the cleanliness of the heart. For Jesus, what comes from the heart is what makes a person unclean and defiles him (Mk.7:20). So, I should give importance to keeping my heart pure and clean rather than focusing on outward cleanliness.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for this important lesson about cleanliness. Lord, thank you for your blood that purifies my heart from all sin. Help me to walk in your light and truth. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 110
Scripture: Psalm 111: 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Observation: The Bible says about two kinds of fear: fear of God and fear of men. The fear of the Lord marks the beginning of wisdom. But, the fear of men will be a snare (Pro.29:25). Since wisdom helps a person to appropriately use his/her knowledge for the needs of life, people desire to have wisdom. To acquire wisdom, people are ready to take any risks. There are thousands of books already published related to wisdom. However, all who want to get wisdom through their education and experience do not get it.
Here, the psalmist says about one of the easiest ways that have a 100% success rate to get wisdom. i.e. the fear of the Lord. "The fear of the Lord" does not mean that we should always be afraid of God. Rather, as we read in Psalm 19:7-9, the fear of the Lord also refers to "the law...the statutes...the precepts....the commands....(and) the decrees of the Lord." When we have the fear of the Lord, we will have a good understanding. People may say different things, mostly negative things, about the fear of God. The fear of the Lord not only gives us wisdom but also helps us to get everything that we need in this life. The amazing fact about this wisdom is that anyone could get it from the Lord, irrespective of their age.
Application: Jesus plainly said, "I will warn you whom to fear" (Lk.12:5). I do not need to fear any men, except God. Fearing men always leads to chaos and confusions. Because, it does not merely end with fears. Fearing men could invite/cause so many troubles and complications in my life. On the other hand, when I have the fear of God, I get wisdom. And it gives me the understanding to handle any situation. My fear of the Lord does not indicate my weaknesses or worries of life. Rather, it shows my choice to get the required wisdom for my life. So, I have the fear of the Lord in my heart. It leads me to experience every blessing that the Lord has for me.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for making it easier to get the godly wisdom in my life. You give me wisdom. You are the wisdom. Lord, thank you for the good understanding that you give those who fear you. Help me live faithfully in the light of the wisdom you give me. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 111
Scripture: Luke 12: 54 He(Jesus) said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. 55 And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. 56 Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?
Observation: Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and many others often asked Jesus to show them a sign. Although they saw the miracles, teachings, and life of Jesus, they were asking for a sign because they did not want to accept Jesus. Here, Jesus questioned their failure in interpreting the present time. While they were good at interpreting "the appearance of the earth and the sky," they were not ready to understand their spiritual crisis. They turned a blind eye to the corruption of their religious leaders. They were more concerned about their tradition than the Word of God. They did not pay attention to all the signs that were given by prophets concerning the Messiah. Instead, they were showing their interest in interpreting clouds and winds. So, Jesus called them Hypocrites.
Many prophets, including Abraham, wanted to see the time when Jesus lived on earth. However, here, even after seeing Jesus directly, these people did not have the desire to see him as the promised Messiah. The "present time" mentioned here was a unique time in the history of men and was well attested by so many prophecies. It is important to discern the "present time" to understand the spiritual crisis of the time and to do the right thing that pleases God.
Application: In the modern and technologically advanced world, interpreting the seasons and forecasting the future of economic and social environments are easier with human-friendly technologies and innovations. However, in any given situation, whether physical or spiritual, understanding the "present time" is vital to deal with the issues of the time. I should not simply ignore and reject it. When I discern the "present time," I will see the presence of Jesus. Such a time as this, I should not spend my time and energy in unworthy things. Instead, I should focus on God to discern what he wants me to do now. It may be a small thing. However, it will be necessary and relevant to "this present time." It is my privileged responsibility to do something for God in the "present time."
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your wake-up call to discern the present time of the world. Help me to understand the social and spiritual crises of today. Lord, give me your strength to do your will in my life. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 112
Scripture: Judges 16: 20 And she (Delilah) said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 And the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze shackles. And he ground at the mill in the prison.
Observation: The story of Samson's fall is a warning for us to check where we are and what we do. In Samson's life, we can see one of the major themes of the book of Judges i.e., a gradual decline of obedience to God and his commandments. As we all know, the beginning of Samson's story was wonderful. However, when he forgot his call and stayed in the wrong places to satisfy his sinful desires, he became a victim of his own actions. When Samson continued to stay and sleep to gratify his desires, his enemies were "lying in ambush" to capture him.
When the Philistines came to seize him, Samson said that he would win as he did before. "But he did not know that the Lord had left him." He might have tried to do all that he did before to escape from the enemies. He might have felt very bad about himself when he realized that the Lord was not with him. It was too late to escape. A mighty man who killed a lion with his bare hands was assigned to grind at the mill. However, it was not the end. When Samson prayed to the Lord, he regained his strength. but, he was no more to live in it.
Application: I may have some unique talents or special anointing of the Lord to do what others could not do. However, if I continually ignore the warnings and stay in the wrong places, thinking that I would get victory over sin easily whenever I want, the Lord would not be with me. When I read Samson's story, I know why it had happened to him. He was not with the Lord. In the Bible, we read about another man who also did not know what happened to him. It was Moses. When Moses came down from the Mount Sinai after spending time with the Lord, he did not know the radiance of his face. But others saw it (Exo.34:29,30). I want to spend time with the Lord, not sin anymore. Instead of sleeping at the lap of sin, I have promises of God to keep as my pillow. Now, I know what I should do!
Prayer: God, thank you that you know everything. You know the way that I should go. Thank you for your guiding words that say, “This is the way, walk in it." Lord, help me to listen to your words. Heavenly Father, give me your strength to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 113
Scripture: Luke 13: 23 Someone asked him (Jesus), “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, 24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.
Observation: Here, we see a genuine question from a follower of Jesus: “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” We also may have asked this question several times with the Lord on different occasions. We know the biblical teaching that God wants all people to be saved. However, when we look at Jesus' answer here, it appears that he tells something else instead of giving a straightforward answer to the questioner. When we read this question in its context, we understand that Jesus talks about how to be saved. God is more concerned about the quality of his people than the quantity of their numbers. Jesus' reference to the narrow door indicates about entering the kingdom of God through him. Jesus is " the way and the truth and the life" (Jn.14:6).
Does the narrow door mean that only a few people will be saved? Jews had a common belief that only a few would be saved. Just before this question, Jesus told the people about the parables of the Mustard seeds and the Yeast, in which Jesus compared the Kingdom of God with the mustard seed and the yeast (Lk.13:18-21). This parable gives us a glimpse of the influence and impact of the Kingdom of God among the people. In verse 29, Jesus says many people will come from all corners of the world to participate in the feast of the Kingdom of God. Certainly, many people will be saved. But the question is whether I am ready to enter through the narrow door.
Application: As a follower of Jesus Christ, my focus should be on entering through the door, not counting the number of people. While I follow Christ, I must commit to denying myself and carrying the cross daily. When I allow God to work in my life, so that God's kingdom can grow and permeate society, many people will come to know God and enter the Kingdom of God. I will make every effort to follow Jesus diligently.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for answering one of my heart’s questions. Lord, help me to take the narrow road that leads to life, instead of choosing the broad road that leads to destruction. May your Holy Spirit strengthen me to walk in your way. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 114
Scripture: Psalm 115: 17 It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence;18 it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore.
Observation: Although the last two verses of Psalm 115 appear disconnected from the other verses of the chapter, they convey an important message to us. In our present scenario, these verses are very relevant to us. We all know that a dead person cannot do anything. Nobody can escape from death. However, when we lose someone dear to us, we find it difficult to accept it. Some people have started to question God and his existence. During such times, we may hear taunting questions from within and without. One good thing we can do about a dead person is to praise God for his/her life. A dead person cannot do that. Only we who are alive can praise God. Does it make any sense?
When King Hezekiah recovered from his deadly sickness, he also said something similar to these verses (Isaiah 38:18,19). Our God is not dead, so we are alive. How about a person who is spiritually dead and has lost his relationship with God? They also cannot praise God until they set their things straight before God. A spiritually alive person will praise God, "both now and forevermore," irrespective of the environment.
Application: When I face taunting questions that could shake my faith in God, I should remember that my God is not dead. I need to realize that I worship the living God who has concern for me. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Heb. 13:8). He says, "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades" (Rev.1:18). Because he lives, I also will live (John 14:19). If I go through a spiritual dullness or find it difficult to praise God, I need to remember God. From my breathing to all I have in this world are from him. "What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?" As a living person, I will praise the Lord now and forever.
Prayer: Father, thank you for every blessing that you have given me. Above all, you are my God. You are the everlasting father. God, help me be thankful and praise you as long as I live. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 115
Scripture: Luke 14: 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Observation: In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus starts with a hyperbole (to emphasize his point, not to take its literal meaning) to explain the cost of being his disciple. In this passage, Jesus highlights three important things about being a disciple of him: 1) Loving Jesus more than any other person, 2) Carrying the cross (daily), 3) Willingness to give up everything for Christ' sake. Jesus says that a person who wants to build a tower would estimate the cost first, and a king who prepares his army for a battle would think about his army's strength compared to his enemy. Here, Jesus does not discourage a person from becoming his disciple. Rather, he encourages everyone to be his disciple.
A person who has not enough money and strength would not go for a building project and war, respectively. “In the same way,” those who consider (boast on) their strengths and power cannot be Jesus' disciples. He expects those who want to become his disciples should be ready to give up everything to follow him. Counting the cost here does not imply whether we are capable or worthy of following Christ. It places a challenge in front of us: are we ready for an absolute surrender to Christ?
Application: As a disciple of Jesus, I need to seek first God and his kingdom than anything else. This doesn't mean that I should hate my family and relatives. It shows my priority to God. To follow Jesus, I should be ready to carry the cross, i.e., to pay the price for it. A Christian life without the cross is a life without Christ. I must be willing to submit my all to Christ, keeping nothing for my own sake. Like Paul, "whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ," I want to say the same and live for Christ.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for making it easier to become your disciple. I can be your disciple by loving you with an absolute surrender. Help me to follow you every day with love and humility. You are my everything. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 116
Scripture: Luke 15:1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable:
Observation: In Luke 15, we see three parables that Jesus told to the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Sometimes, we forget why Jesus said these parables. Here we read that the tax collectors and sinners came to listen to Jesus' teaching. Whenever Jesus spent time with the sinners and tax collectors, he influenced them and changed their lives, which was never vice versa. The Gospel tells many such stories of transformation in the life of sinners. However, those who called themselves as guardians of the law did not understand Jesus' logic of welcoming the sinners. For them, he was doing something against the social norms of the day. The three parables we read in Luke 15 emphasize the joy and excitement of finding the lost ones. We can see a gradual increase in both the value of the lost and the joy in finding it or getting it back. Luke 15: 7 and10 tells us about the prevailing joy in heaven and among the angels when a sinner repents. The parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the joy of the father who was waiting for his son to return home.
Sometimes, when a notorious or undesirable person wants to come to Christ, do we show the same joy and excitement that we show when we find something we lost? Instead of expressing our happiness for their willingness to come to the Lord, we may express our fears and apprehensions. At times, we may question their motives as well. However, Jesus rejoices at the repentance of a sinner. As we see in the three parables of Jesus, the progressive expression of the joy of heaven, angels, and the Father reminds us that we should be ready to find and accept the lost ones.
Application: If the repentance of one sinner would cause "more rejoicing in heaven," how much more should I be happy about it! The eagerness of the shepherd to find a lost sheep, the woman's curiosity to find a lost coin, and the loving father who ran toward his lost son to accept him with a loving embrace all remind me how important it is to seek and save the lost. When a sinner comes to God with a repenting heart, it brings a smile on God's face. Then, the sinner's transformed life brings more joy to his family and his society (e.g., Zacchaeus). I should be open to receiving someone who wants to come to Christ, irrespective of his history. I should remember that "every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future." Finding the lost gives me more joy than when it was with me before I lost it. The only difference now is that I know its value.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for your love to accept me when I came to you. As a sinner saved by your grace, help me to show your love and kindness to others who need your salvation. Lord, help me be involved in seeking the lost and sharing the joy with you in finding them. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 117
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Observation: There are many interpretations given for Psalm 118. However, in all the interpretations, one common thing is that this psalm was used as a thanksgiving song in Jewish prayers during their important festivals. Psalm 118 is a part of "Egyptian Hallel," which consists of 6 Psalms (Ps113-118) in Jewish liturgy. The psalmist remembers God's deliverance from his enemies and expresses his thanksgiving to the Lord. "This very day" in verse 24 alludes to the day God made the rejected stone as the cornerstone. God can make a person who is considered as unworthy become an indispensable person.
One thing that we need to remember every day is, "This is the day that the Lord has made." Our situations, struggles, problems, jobs, positions etc. differ from one another. Being happy today is very important in our life. When we remember God's past deliverance, we can thank God for today and be happy about it. Our life situations will not be the same forever. God wants us to be happy every day, regardless of our situation. Our rejoicing today is a prelude to our deliverance tomorrow. Our dependence on God keeps us happy, not our life situations.
Application: God has done so many amazing things in my life. I thank God for his faithfulness in lifting me up to the present situation. As the psalmist says, "I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done" (v.17). This day, this minute, and even this very second I breathe are God-given gifts to me. I cannot get it back If I miss it. I may be unhappy about my past life, but I can be happy today. Instead of looking at my present situation, when I remember God, I can be happy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance you give me. Thank you for your enduring love. Help me to be happy today. Lord, you are the source of my joy and strength. Help me to depend on you every day. Amen.
: Arputharaj Samuel : Quiet Time Companion Day – 118
To sign up for daily meditations by WhatsApp, scan the QR Code or complete the form.
This devotional helps to have a insightful journey through the entire Bible, giving you a better understanding and experience of the Holy Bible as you read the given Bible reading portions daily.
Sign Up To Receive Quiet Time Meditations!
Jesus Christ is alive even today; The Word of God is alive and active!
We all can experience God speaking to us as we read and meditate on the Bible. Although there are different methods available to write daily meditations, these meditations are based on the SOAP method.
SOAP is an acronym for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. SOAP method is a simple way to meditate on the Word of God by reading the Scripture portion for the day to contemplate the verse that God highlights, observing what God wants to tell us, and applying it in our lives with a prayer. Watch this short video to see an example of a Quiet Time Meditation!
Scripture: Psalm 118: 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!
Scripture: Deuteronomy 27: 9 Then Moses and the Levitical priests said to all Israel, “Be silent, Israel, and listen! You have now become the people of the Lord your God. 10 Obey the Lord your God and follow his commands and decrees that I give you today.”
: Arputharaj Samuel
: Quiet Time Companion
Day – 90
Scripture: Psalm 91: 9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31: 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33: 29 Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights."
Scripture: Psalm 94: 12 Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law.
Scripture: Luke 4:5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours." 8 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'"
Observation: Since Psalm 96 closely resembles 1 Chronicles 16:23-33, some say that it was written by David. This psalm first encourages its readers and hearers to sing and praise God. Secondly, it gives reasons to praise and worship God. Thirdly, it gives a unique picture of how to worship God! This distinguishes the key difference between the worship of God Yahweh and idol worship. In Hebrew, the phrase "in the splendor of his holiness" may refer to more than one meaning. Some may think that whether it says about the holiness of God or the holy clothing of a person who worships God. There is no doubt about God's holiness. He is the Holy God. This makes him unique among all gods. However, what makes him even more unique is that he expects us to worship "in the splendor of his holiness."
Observation: When we read Luke 5:8, we may wonder what Peter saw at that moment! Peter, a professional fisherman, must have been surprised when Jesus told him, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch." Fishermen prefer to fish early in the morning or at nighttime, for it is the best time to catch fish. It is unusual that Peter and his men caught nothing here, even after they tried all night. However, when he let down the nets in obedience to Jesus' words, he saw something fresh about Jesus. Obviously, it was not the first time he had been with Jesus. Until then, Peter may have known Jesus as a carpenter's son from Nazareth, or a teacher, or a miracle worker, and so on. When he saw the abundance of fish in their nets, he must have understood that Jesus was more than any other person in the world.
Scripture: Luke 5: 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better.'”
Read: Joshua 11, 12; Psalm 99; Luke 6: 1-19
Scripture: Psalm 100: 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Scripture: Luke 7: 6 So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
Observation: Psalm 102 is "a prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord." The intense pain and depression of the psalmist's distressing situation are described in verses 3-11. As the psalmist thought that he was on the brink of death, he remembered God and expressed his hope in him. The eternal God never rejects a prayer of a person in great need. God listens, responds, and answers the prayer of an afflicted person. When the psalmist saw God during the time of his sorrowful state, he understood that God’s love endures forever. Though heaven and earth may change, God never changes but remains the same. Like the psalmist, when we go through affliction, we need to remember our everlasting and eternal God, who never changes. He will answer our prayers. He will change our misery. When we look upon the unchanging God, we understand that our present (distressing) situation is not permanent. For the Lord God will not despise our plea.
Scripture: Luke 8: 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”
Scripture: Luke 8: 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.
Scripture: Joshua 24: 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Scripture: Psalm 106: 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin. 44 Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45 for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented.
Scripture: Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
Observation: Here, we see the underlying question that Jesus answered through the parable of the good Samaritan. The expert of the Law knew about who his God was. However, as a Jew, he may have struggled to understand the word "neighbor." Since the word "neighbor" does not point to a particular person, people may think it is ambiguous. In those days, even within the Jewish community, there were divisions and infights based on their beliefs. So, loving a fellow Jew itself had a lot of connotations.
Scripture: Luke 11: 1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
Scripture: Luke 11:39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?
Scripture: Psalm 111: 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Scripture: Luke 12: 54 He(Jesus) said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. 55 And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. 56 Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?
Scripture: Judges 16: 20 And she (Delilah) said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 And the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze shackles. And he ground at the mill in the prison.
Scripture: Luke 13: 23 Someone asked him (Jesus), “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, 24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.
Scripture: Psalm 115: 17 It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence;18 it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore.
Scripture: Luke 14: 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Scripture: Luke 15:1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable:
