“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.
Earthly and eternal blessing
_Read: Isaiah 21,22; Psalm 73; 2 Corinthians 1_
*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Observation:* Until the psalmist started to see the wicked from God's perspective, he was jealous of the prosperity of the wicked and could not see things clearly. Soon after the psalmist entered the sanctuary, he understood his thoughts were senseless and vague. Seeing the world from the Lord's perspective helps us to understand everything. Although the psalmist almost slipped, God did not abandon him. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we are faithless, he (God) remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Tim.2:13). God's counsel helps us overcome our mental struggles and will lead us to see our real blessings.
The psalmist was able to see that there is no blessing or prosperity greater than our God. The psalmist must have understood the perishability of worldly blessings. It made him confess that God is more desirable than anything, both in heaven and on earth. In Christ, we have blessings for the present and hope for the future. God is our strength and hope. Meanwhile, the wicked and unfaithful have no such expectations or future in Christ. God is our eternal hope and everlasting blessing. God is sufficient for us. We must keep our eyes on God instead of looking at others' earthly blessings.
*Application:* Jesus assures me of my life on earth and offers hope for the future to live with God in heaven. As long as I see things from my perspective through my selfish lens, I will not see God. I should focus on knowing Jesus Christ and be ready to lose anything for him (Phil.3:8). For that to happen, I should first seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Then, I will have everything I need.
*Prayer:* Father God, my eyes are on you. Lord, you are my strength, blessing, and portion in life. Jesus, help me to humble myself and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 255
_Read: Song of Songs 5,6; Psalm 61; 1 Corinthians 7:1-24_
*Scripture:* Psalm 61: 1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
*Observation:* Praying is a common practice in almost all religions of the world. People think that prayer helps them to make their plea known to God. So, prayer gives them a kind of mental satisfaction. In many religions, people don’t expect an answer from their deity. However, our prayers to God are two-way communication. When we pray, we expect an answer from God. The Bible says our God is the one who answers our prayers. David, the psalmist, did not mention the situation of his prayer in Psalm 61. We understand from verse 2 that he must have been in a severe crisis that made him think he was close to death. We can pray to God anytime and from any corner of the world. When our situations overwhelm us and weaken our hearts, we may lose grip of our lives and feel like we are standing in quicksand. It seems the psalmist was in such a dreadful situation that he could not speak much. However, he called for God’s help. In verse 3, David asks God to lead him to the solid rock where he can stand firm. David was sure that the Lord was his rock, which he has repeatedly mentioned elsewhere in the book of Psalms.
The difficult times of our lives make us aware that we need God’s help. The God who helped us in the past can help us in our present storms and struggles. God is our rock; he is our refuge and a strong tower to protect us from any dangers and attacks from the enemy. We have the confidence that God listens to our prayers and answers them. Therefore, whenever we find ourselves in an unmanageable situation or trouble, we can call God and plead with him to answer our prayers. God knows our needs even before we pray to him. When we call him “Abba, Father,” he responds to our prayers and leads us to do his will.
*Application:* I can pray to God always and in all places. When I begin to pray, I receive hope and assurance of deliverance from God. God strengthens me to stand firm against the tides and leads me to the rock higher than I. “He will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help” (Ps.72:12). God is my refuge, shield, fortress, strong tower, and my salvation.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for all the answers to the prayers of my heart. Lord, thank you for listening to me when I call you from the depths. Jesus, you are worthy of praise and worship. Lord, help me to praise you gladly and serve you faithfully. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 243
1September 1, 2026●(5 events)
September 1, 2026
The Power of Human Love
_Read: Song of Songs 7,8; Psalm 62; 1 Corinthians 7:25-40_
*Scripture:* Song of Songs 8: 6 Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. 7 Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
*Observation:* Critics often use the book "Song of Songs" to attack the Bible and its reliability. Some Christians struggle to explain the purpose of the "Song of Songs" in the Bible. There were attempts to downplay the Song of Songs and remove it from the Bible. Traditionally, Christians view the Song of Songs as an allegory of the love between God and Israel, Christ and the Church, and Christ and individual Christians. For example, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a notable eleventh-century monk, wrote 86 sermons on the first two chapters of the Song of Songs. However, biblical scholars warn against using the allegorical approach as it raises many questions.
To keep it simple, Song of Songs is an exchange of love between a married couple. We all would agree that human sexuality and love are the gifts of God. God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone," and created Eve. Marriage is a God-ordained relationship between a man and a woman. Song of Songs does not speak about a love relationship outside marriage or any illegal relationship. It speaks of the love that freely expresses the inner thoughts about the spouse and their thoughts of celebrating love.
In Song of Songs 8:6,7, we read the characteristics of marital love that it is strong, unyielding, and invincible in human experience. It helps us understand marital love's power and warns us that we cannot buy love with our wealth. Conjugal love is the mutual love between a husband and wife. It continues till death separates them. So, love needs proper care and time to sustain, grow, and prosper in it. Finally, marital love is a gift from God and should be honored accordingly.
*Application:* The world presents a distorted image of human sexuality and God's creation. The Bible helps me to understand the purpose of the marriage relationship and to express love. Jesus said, "A man will…be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh." (Mt.19:5-6). Hebrews 13:4 says, "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." I must be careful to love and honor God.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for imparting wisdom concerning human love and its usefulness in marriage life. Jesus, help me to love and obey my spouse as I love you. Lord, help us to remain in love for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 244
2September 2, 2026●(5 events)
September 2, 2026
Come now, let us reason together
_Read: Isaiah 1,2; Psalm 63; 1 Corinthians 8_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 1: 18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.
*Observation:* When a case is registered in a judicial court, both the complainant and respondent will present their arguments through an advocate. Then, based on the arguments and evidence presented before him, the judge will pronounce his verdict. We all know this procedure. In Isaiah 1, the Lord, the Judge of all the earth, invites his people to reason together. Lord condemns the Israelites for their disobedience and calls them to clean themselves from sins. As part of his call to repentance and obedience to God, he now invites them to reason with him and resolve their matter. A course correction opportunity is given to God's people to purify themselves from sins. Sin separates humanity from God and ruins the loving relationship between God and man. But the God of love offers his forgiveness and grace to the fallen man to reconcile and restore the relationship with God.
God's people should consider the blessedness of living under God's protection and the desolateness of living without God. We can reason with God and make decisions based on sound reasoning. God does not call us to blind faith. Instead, he calls us to the reasoned or rational faith that prompts us to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Though our sins are "like scarlet" and "red as crimson," God can wash away the stains of our sins and make us holy to the Lord. God's love for us is unconditional. However, his offer for forgiveness is conditional. We need to confess and repent from our sins and obey the Lord (v.19). There is no sin that God cannot forgive. God has compassion for us as a father has compassion for his children (Ps.103:13). "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 Jn.1:8,9).
*Application:* I should never forget that I am a sinner saved by God's grace. I cannot please God by a multitude of sacrifices and offerings. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise" (Ps.51:17). As I confess my sins and allow God to purify my heart, I should learn what God expects from me (Is.1:17) and obey him. I do not need a mediator to reason with God. Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, is my advocate with God the Father. I can "approach the throne of grace with confidence" (Heb.4:16).
*Prayer:* Gracious and compassionate God, thank you for your love that accepts me and purifies me from all sins. Jesus, help me be obedient to the Word of God and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 245
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 9: 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
*Observation:* An ancient Tamil poet wrote, "Easy to every man the speech that shows the way; Hard thing to shape one's life by the words they say!" For many people, their actions do not match their words. After mentioning his responsibility to preach the Gospel and his humility to win all people for Christ, Paul refers to two familiar scenes of the ancient world—running and boxing—to emphasize his commitment to serving the Lord. In any competition, only those who come first get the reward. However, all who participate in a game or competition would go through strict training. The Christian life, or our race of faith, is different from worldly contests. We Christians would get the eternal, unperishable, and glorious reward from the Lord. All who successfully complete the race will receive their due prize.
1 Cor.9:26 tells us about Paul's steadfast heart and the purpose of his Christian life. Paul does not want to be like someone unprepared and unequipped for a game. He controls and disciplines his body to avoid disqualification from the race. In other words, Paul does not allow his body to rule his life. Instead, he makes every effort to discipline his body. Paul is not talking about punishing his own body and leading an ascetic life. Rather, he expresses his heart's desire to practice what he preached to others.
As Paul writes to Romans, "Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness" (Romans 6:12,13). Let us remember that we are not our own but bought at a price.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should practice what I preach to others. God has called me with a purpose. So I should make every effort to do my best to serve him faithfully. A slave listens to and obeys his master. Likewise, I should train my body to obey and honor Jesus Christ to "receive the crown of glory that will never fade away" (1 Peter 5:4).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for helping me to understand your purpose for my life. Lord, give me your strength to discipline my body to obey you always. Jesus, help me to live as your own and holy for the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 246
4September 4, 2026●(5 events)
September 4, 2026
A principle to use our freedom in Christ
_Read: Isaiah 5,6; Psalm 65; 1 Corinthians 10_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 10: 23 "I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. 24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
*Observation:* Nowadays, we read and speak a lot about individual freedom and rights. Many people do not want to hear anything that questions their lifestyle and attitude towards others. They may use a popular phrase, "My life, my way," and try to justify their actions. Does an unbridled life guarantee joy without limits? We see many people who want to satisfy their selfish desires by exploiting and harming others. They find no permanent happiness in their pursuit of pleasure. Corinthian believers wrote to Paul concerning their rights, "Everything is permissible." The Corinth church had issues related to sexual immorality and eating the food offered to idols. They would have thought their physical actions would not affect their spiritual life. Apostle Paul did not wholly reject the idea of the right to do anything. However, he asks the Corinthian Christians to consider a few things in exercising their rights.
First, Paul told the Corinthian believers that although they have every right to do everything, "not everything is beneficial" (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). All people would agree that doing something useless is meaningless. Secondly, Paul warned that we should not allow our freedom to use anything to enslave us (1 Cor.6:12). Thirdly, Paul considered that "not everything is constructive." As Christians, we should be cautious in exercising our freedom in Christ. Christ did not liberate us from falling into the same traps that kept us away from God. We must evaluate everything to assess whether it is appropriate or not for our Christian living. As Christians, we should not indulge in things that are not constructive.
Finally, Paul advised the Corinthian believers to "seek the good of others." A self-centered life is against a Christ-centered life. Jesus Christ is our role model to live for the good of others. When we seek the welfare of others, it brings mutual joy. Moreover, we become the salt and light to the world. By considering the good of others, we fulfill the law of Christ (Gal.6:2). A selfish life never gives joy to others. However, a Christian who does good for others contributes to the development of society and spreads kindness and love everywhere.
*Application:* I should not allow anything to enslave me. I am not a slave to worldly customs and my selfish thoughts. I will do things that benefit all. I will spend my time and energy on constructive and edifying things. As Paul says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Gal.2:20).
*Prayer:* My God, thank you for opening my eyes to see how I can use my freedom in Christ to bless others. Jesus, help me to do everything for the glory of God. (v.31). Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 247
5September 5, 2026●(5 events)
September 5, 2026
God is with us
_Read: Isaiah 7,8; Psalm 66; 1 Corinthians 11_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 7: 10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 "Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." 12 But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test." 13 Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
*Observation:* Ahaz was one of the wicked kings of Judah who did not walk in the ways of the Lord but worshipped idols (2 Kings 16:1-4; 2 Chron.28:1-4). When the Syrian king and the Israelite king besieged Jerusalem, God spoke to Ahaz through his prophet Isaiah and gave him an opportunity to repent and return to the Lord (v.9). When the Lord asked Ahaz to ask for a sign, he replied, "I will not put the Lord to the test." It doesn't mean that he did not want to test the Lord. Instead, he was reluctant and not ready to accept God's offer of grace.
Ahaz asked for the Assyrians' help to protect him from the Syrian attack (2 Kings 16:7,8). Though Ahaz was unwilling to ask for a sign, God himself gave him a sign. However, the Assyrian king, even after receiving a large sum of silver and gold from Ahaz, "gave him trouble instead of help" (2 Chron.28:20). However, God was faithful in his words and gave Ahaz a sign of the virgin birth of Immanuel. God wanted to tell Ahaz that he could help him from his enemies. The Hebrew word Immanuel means God is with us.
Some people doubt whether it was a messianic prophecy or applicable only to Isaiah's time. Biblical prophecies often refer to things that would happen soon and would occur much later in the future. Here, we see the prediction about the arrival of the Messiah. This prophecy is fulfilled in the life of Jesus Christ (Mt.1:23, Lk.1:31-35). The wicked Ahaz wanted to please the pagan gods with the hope of receiving their help (2 Chron.28:23-25). But he did not get any support from them. God is always with us, whether we agree with it or not. When we allow God to work in our lives, he saves and delivers us. In difficult times, humans who could help us may abandon or trouble us. Our help "comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth" (Ps.121:2). "The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Ps.46:7,11). He is our ever-present help.
*Application:* The greatest promise of God to me is that Jesus the Immanuel is with me always, "to the very end of the age" (Mt.28:20). Therefore, I fear nothing. I must allow God to work in and through me. God's plans are better than my plans.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for being with me through your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, help me be with you always and live with the conscience that God is with me always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 248
6September 6, 2026●(5 events)
September 6, 2026
In Christ, all are equal
_Read: Isaiah 9,10; Psalm 67; 1 Corinthians 12_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 12: 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul responds to the Corinth church believers' question concerning spiritual gifts. Paul tells something important and applicable even to present-day churches. We see Christians everywhere argue against one another concerning questions like who is superior and who is inferior, who is strong and who is weak, who is useful and who is worthless. In most places, we see and appreciate only the forefront workers; those who work on the backdrop often go unnoticed. For example, those who clean the church never get the same attention as worship leaders or musicians.
Concerning spiritual gifts, Paul says that the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to all believers. However, we should know that there are different kinds of gifts. We should not expect and compel everyone to have the same gift. It is the Holy Spirit who determines which gift a believer should/would receive. We all are members of the body of Christ. So, each of us has a role or work in the church. We cannot/should not say to anyone, "I don't need you." Paul says weaker parts are indispensable in the body of Christ. Then Paul urges the Corinth believers to give "special honor," and "special modesty" to those who are weak. Paul suggests that the Corinth believers give honor and pay special attention to those who need the care and concerns of others. They should not be neglected at any cost.
While explaining the equality and importance of all parts of one body, Paul reminds the believers about the interdependence of each body part and its interconnectedness. No Christian could function alone. We may not realize the contribution of a body part to our well-being until it ceases to work. It is our responsibility to give the utmost care to every person in the Church. Every Christian and their service to the Church is vital. There should be no discrimination, inequalities, or divisions in God's family, i.e., the Church, the body of Christ. Partaking in the joy and suffering of other Christians is a part of true Christian living.
*Application:* The gift of the Holy Spirit is given to me for the common good. I should not boast about my spiritual gift and should never consider myself superior to others. I should use my spiritual gift for the good of others, not to gratify my desire and pride. Instead of humiliating Christians who consider themselves weak and worthless, I will/should give them special honor and special treatment to make sure that they understand they are essential to the body of Christ, just like others.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the spiritual gift that you have given to me. Jesus, help me to use the gift of the Holy Spirit to testify about your greatness and to help and honor others in Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 249
7September 7, 2026●(5 events)
September 7, 2026
LOVE is everything
_Read: Isaiah 11,12; Psalm 68; 1 Corinthians 13_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
*Observation:* For many Christians, 1 Corinthians 13 is one of their favorite chapters in the Bible. All who read it would readily accept the greatness of love described in 1 Cor.13. However, when asked about practicing such love, people would tell about their difficulties or excuses. They may say, apart from God, who could love like that? Some may say that we are trying to practice love; they may hope to achieve such love someday. In the first three verses of 1 Cor.13, Paul tells us that love is greater than spiritual gifts. Verses 4-7 tell about 15 features of love. In verses 8-13, Paul explains the enduring nature of love.
The word love has a range of meanings depending on the context. There are at least six Greek words for love: Agape, Eros, Philia, Storge, Philautia, and Xenia. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul uses "Agape," which refers to unconditional or selfless love. Many people think love is a concept, a philosophy, or a feeling. Interestingly, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes the actions of love. The Bible encourages, "Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." (1 Jn.3:18; 4:16). The Bible testifies that God loves us. As we read in Romans 5:8, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus Christ called us to remain in his love and commanded us, "Love each other as I have loved you" (Jn.15:9, 12).
Lack of love is one of the fundamental reasons that causes many problems in Christian families, churches, fellowships, workplaces, and organizations. It is our love that helps others. If there is no love in us, we will not use our spiritual gifts to benefit others. Love is the foundation of our Christian faith and hope. Loving one another is an oft-repeated command of Jesus and the New Testament teaching. Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (Jn.13:35).
*Application:* I have learned what is love and what is not love. First of all, love is not merely talking about it. It is about what I do in my actions. As I understand the greatness of love and its permanence, I must/will do my best to practice love in my life. I should love others just as Jesus loved me.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for your love for me. Jesus, help me to remain in love and love others every day. Lord, help me love you with all my heart, mind, soul, and all my strength. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 250
8September 8, 2026●(5 events)
September 8, 2026
Speak the words that edify others
_Read: Isaiah 13,14; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 14_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 14: 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
*Observation:* Recently, a reputed Anglican scholar shared his experience of speaking in tongues when he talked to his cousin concerning his worries about his work. It soon went viral all over the world; his testimony encouraged many Christians. A well-known Indian evangelist once shared his experience that he would spend a few days praying in tongues before every preaching. Speaking in tongues helps a Christian to edify himself. There is no valid reason to believe that the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased with the Early Church. The Bible or Paul never talks against speaking in tongues(v.39). However, he advised that it is better not to practice the spiritual gift of speaking tongues if there is no interpreter when speaking publicly in the Church (v.28). We need to understand why Paul said such a thing.
Paul explicitly said, "I speak in tongues more than all of you." So, Paul was certainly not saying anything against using the gift of speaking in a tongue. In 1 Corinthians 12, he said that a spiritual gift "is given for the common good." In his response to the Corinth believers' question concerning spiritual gifts, Paul encouraged them, "Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church." (v.12). In the Church, every Christian should be concerned about edifying one another. To that end, "five intelligible words" are better than the thousands of words we speak in tongues. In ancient Greece, 10000 (Myriad) was the largest number. In their eagerness for spiritual gifts, Corinth believers must have thought like children. Paul asked the Corinthians, "Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children."
In the pursuit of spiritual gifts, Christians should stop childish thinking and practices. At the same time, we should be like children without any evil desires or motives. Jesus said, "Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Mt.10:16). As Paul said to the Roman Church, we need to "be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil" (Rom.16:19). Above all, it is love that helps us use our spiritual gifts to edify and build others. Let us remember it and be careful to "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit."
*Application:* God has given me spiritual gifts. I should be careful in using them for his glory. Instead of satisfying myself by speaking so many words in the Church, I should/will be sensitive to the needs of others and speak the words that build and edify them.
*Prayer:* Almighty God, thank you for all the spiritual gifts you have given to every Christian. Jesus, help me to be aware of my spiritual gift(s) and use it appropriately to edify others in the Church. Holy Spirit, give me your strength to be/become a mature Christian. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 251
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
*Observation:* In Ancient society, people predominantly used oral tradition to pass on their knowledge and teachings from one generation to the next. Memorization of information was fundamental for the transmission of knowledge. Here, Paul refers to an authentic oral tradition of the Gospel that he shared with the Corinthian believers. In Galatians 1:11-12, Paul says that "by revelation," he received the Gospel directly from Jesus Christ. In other words, the Gospel that Paul preached was not his Gospel; Paul did not invent or make it up. Paul faithfully preached what he received. Paul was determined to preach the crucified Christ to the Corinth Church (1 Cor.1:23, 2:2).
All people die; people may ask what is unique in Christ's death. Jesus's death was not an ordinary one. He died for our sins, according to the Scriptures. We see the fulfillment of many Old Testament messianic prophecies in Christ's death. Through his death, Jesus made propitiation for our sins. We see the demonstration of God's love in Jesus's death (Rom.5:8). Apostle Peter says, "He (Jesus) himself bore our sins" in his body on the Cross so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness" (1 Pet. 2:24).
The burial of Jesus signifies that his death was not fake. The Gospel of Mark says, "Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead" (Mk.15:44). There was no doubt about his death. There is no basis for the swoon theory that says Jesus was unconscious or in a deep coma. Again, according to the Scriptures, Jesus was raised on the third day. Jesus' resurrection was the central message of the apostolic teaching. Christ's resurrection is not a fable. The New Testament gives us a list of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and presents eyewitnesses' testimonies. Paul mentions six of Christ's appearances in this chapter. Jesus' resurrection is a historical fact. As one scholar says, "Belief in the Resurrection is not an appendage to the Christian faith; it is the Christian faith." We Christians must understand the message of the Gospel to explain it clearly to those who ask and question us. We are responsible for passing on the Gospel to others who have not yet heard it.
*Application:* I believe Jesus died for my sins. He was buried and raised on the third day. Jesus is alive even today. God has given me new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Pet.1:3). "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes" (Rom.1:16).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the great love that you have shown for me. Jesus, thank you for the Cross in which you bore my sins and made atonement with God. Lord, you are alive and unchanging even today. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to spread the light of the Gospel that displays the glory of Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 252
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul first explains that Christ's resurrection is fundamental to the Christian faith. Secondly, he speaks about the resurrection of the dead. Thirdly, Paul talks about the resurrection of the body. The resurrection of Christ gives us hope for our future and assurance of our eternal life. In Christ, we have hope for eternity and resurrection. The Bible calls it "the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). In verse 57, Paul reminds us that we are victorious through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ's victory is ours.
Paul's connective word "therefore" refers to all the preceding 57 verses that he wrote about the resurrection matter. With that in mind, he encourages believers to stand firm and be bold. Whatever we do for the Lord never goes in vain. The Lord blesses our efforts and desires that we want to do for him and makes us victorious. We need to be faithful in doing what the Lord entrusted us. We may sometimes be disappointed when we see no apparent result of our work. However, we should not lose our enthusiasm to work for the Lord or make any half-hearted efforts. We must pay our undivided attention to the work of the Lord. When Christ comes, we will receive our reward, the crown that God has prepared for us. God is not unjust to forget our work and love. Notice: Paul says about the certainty of our resurrection. However, he does not mention when it would happen. Instead, Paul prepares the mind of believers for their resurrection (v.51,52). Further, he encourages them to be determined in their work for the Lord. Therefore, we should give our 100% effort and energy to the work of the Lord.
*Application:* My life does not end with the earth. I will inherit the Kingdom of God and will live with God in eternity. Jesus Christ gives me victory over the law of sin and death. My work and efforts for the Kingdom of God are not useless. I will do everything for the glory of the Lord.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the hope of glory you have given to me. Lord Jesus, help me give my best to God's work and Kingdom. Holy Spirit, help me be steadfast and strong in the Lord and in the work I do for him. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 253
11September 11, 2026●(5 events)
September 11, 2026
Secrets for a Successful Christian Life
_Read: Isaiah 19,20; Psalm 72; 1 Corinthians 16_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 16: 13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
*Observation:* In the first epistle to Corinthians, Apostle Paul responds to some of the problems in the Corinth church and questions of the believers. There were issues like divisions, lawsuits, sexual immoralities, sinful temptations, and misunderstandings about the spiritual gifts and resurrection among the Corinthian believers. Paul answers all of them in the preceding chapters. Here, in his concluding remarks, Paul reminds and commands five things to the Corinth believers. The Corinthian believers need to keep the main thing the main.
In verse 13, we see a tetrad (i.e., a set of four things) for victorious Christian living. These four commands appear like military commands. The first command, "Be on your guard," reminds us that we should be careful to oblige our responsibility as Christians regardless of what we face or what happens to us. We need to stand firm in the faith because it helps us resist the devil who "prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Pet.5:8,9). Satan can do nothing against a believer who remains firm in his/her faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul admonished the Corinth believers to think like adults, not like children (1 Cor.3:1; 13:11; 14:20). We should be courageous as mature Christians. We should be careful not to fall (1 Cor.10:12). The strength we need comes from the Lord Jesus. We always need to "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Eph.6:10). These four things are interconnected, and each of them is vital for a victorious Christian life. Finally, in verse 14, Paul reminds, "do everything in love." In chapter 13, we read Paul's description of the greatness and importance of love in Christian life. Loving God and loving one another are not just great commandments but the way of life for every Christian who wants to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should not live according to worldly customs and practices. I should not "conform to the pattern of this world" (Rom.12:2). I need to be watchful of my walk with the Lord and remain firm in my faith. Jesus already overcame the world. Jesus gives me the strength to be courageous and strong to stand against the enemy, the devil. I am not "under the law, but under grace" (Rom.6:14). Sin and Satan have no power over me. God's love enables me to do everything in love.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for teaching me the secrets to being a faithful Christian. Lord, help me live "like a good soldier of Christ Jesus" today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 254
12September 12, 2026●(5 events)
September 12, 2026
Earthly and eternal blessing
_Read: Isaiah 21,22; Psalm 73; 2 Corinthians 1_
*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Observation:* Until the psalmist started to see the wicked from God's perspective, he was jealous of the prosperity of the wicked and could not see things clearly. Soon after the psalmist entered the sanctuary, he understood his thoughts were senseless and vague. Seeing the world from the Lord's perspective helps us to understand everything. Although the psalmist almost slipped, God did not abandon him. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we are faithless, he (God) remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Tim.2:13). God's counsel helps us overcome our mental struggles and will lead us to see our real blessings.
The psalmist was able to see that there is no blessing or prosperity greater than our God. The psalmist must have understood the perishability of worldly blessings. It made him confess that God is more desirable than anything, both in heaven and on earth. In Christ, we have blessings for the present and hope for the future. God is our strength and hope. Meanwhile, the wicked and unfaithful have no such expectations or future in Christ. God is our eternal hope and everlasting blessing. God is sufficient for us. We must keep our eyes on God instead of looking at others' earthly blessings.
*Application:* Jesus assures me of my life on earth and offers hope for the future to live with God in heaven. As long as I see things from my perspective through my selfish lens, I will not see God. I should focus on knowing Jesus Christ and be ready to lose anything for him (Phil.3:8). For that to happen, I should first seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Then, I will have everything I need.
*Prayer:* Father God, my eyes are on you. Lord, you are my strength, blessing, and portion in life. Jesus, help me to humble myself and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 255
13September 13, 2026
14September 14, 2026
15September 15, 2026
16September 16, 2026
17September 17, 2026
18September 18, 2026
19September 19, 2026
20September 20, 2026
21September 21, 2026
22September 22, 2026
23September 23, 2026
24September 24, 2026
25September 25, 2026
26September 26, 2026
27September 27, 2026
28September 28, 2026
29September 29, 2026
30September 30, 2026
1October 1, 2026
2October 2, 2026
3October 3, 2026
4October 4, 2026
Earthly and eternal blessing
_Read: Isaiah 21,22; Psalm 73; 2 Corinthians 1_
*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Observation:* Until the psalmist started to see the wicked from God's perspective, he was jealous of the prosperity of the wicked and could not see things clearly. Soon after the psalmist entered the sanctuary, he understood his thoughts were senseless and vague. Seeing the world from the Lord's perspective helps us to understand everything. Although the psalmist almost slipped, God did not abandon him. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we are faithless, he (God) remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Tim.2:13). God's counsel helps us overcome our mental struggles and will lead us to see our real blessings.
The psalmist was able to see that there is no blessing or prosperity greater than our God. The psalmist must have understood the perishability of worldly blessings. It made him confess that God is more desirable than anything, both in heaven and on earth. In Christ, we have blessings for the present and hope for the future. God is our strength and hope. Meanwhile, the wicked and unfaithful have no such expectations or future in Christ. God is our eternal hope and everlasting blessing. God is sufficient for us. We must keep our eyes on God instead of looking at others' earthly blessings.
*Application:* Jesus assures me of my life on earth and offers hope for the future to live with God in heaven. As long as I see things from my perspective through my selfish lens, I will not see God. I should focus on knowing Jesus Christ and be ready to lose anything for him (Phil.3:8). For that to happen, I should first seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Then, I will have everything I need.
*Prayer:* Father God, my eyes are on you. Lord, you are my strength, blessing, and portion in life. Jesus, help me to humble myself and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 255
_Read: Song of Songs 5,6; Psalm 61; 1 Corinthians 7:1-24_
*Scripture:* Psalm 61: 1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
*Observation:* Praying is a common practice in almost all religions of the world. People think that prayer helps them to make their plea known to God. So, prayer gives them a kind of mental satisfaction. In many religions, people don’t expect an answer from their deity. However, our prayers to God are two-way communication. When we pray, we expect an answer from God. The Bible says our God is the one who answers our prayers. David, the psalmist, did not mention the situation of his prayer in Psalm 61. We understand from verse 2 that he must have been in a severe crisis that made him think he was close to death. We can pray to God anytime and from any corner of the world. When our situations overwhelm us and weaken our hearts, we may lose grip of our lives and feel like we are standing in quicksand. It seems the psalmist was in such a dreadful situation that he could not speak much. However, he called for God’s help. In verse 3, David asks God to lead him to the solid rock where he can stand firm. David was sure that the Lord was his rock, which he has repeatedly mentioned elsewhere in the book of Psalms.
The difficult times of our lives make us aware that we need God’s help. The God who helped us in the past can help us in our present storms and struggles. God is our rock; he is our refuge and a strong tower to protect us from any dangers and attacks from the enemy. We have the confidence that God listens to our prayers and answers them. Therefore, whenever we find ourselves in an unmanageable situation or trouble, we can call God and plead with him to answer our prayers. God knows our needs even before we pray to him. When we call him “Abba, Father,” he responds to our prayers and leads us to do his will.
*Application:* I can pray to God always and in all places. When I begin to pray, I receive hope and assurance of deliverance from God. God strengthens me to stand firm against the tides and leads me to the rock higher than I. “He will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help” (Ps.72:12). God is my refuge, shield, fortress, strong tower, and my salvation.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for all the answers to the prayers of my heart. Lord, thank you for listening to me when I call you from the depths. Jesus, you are worthy of praise and worship. Lord, help me to praise you gladly and serve you faithfully. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 243
1September 1, 2026●(5 events)
September 1, 2026
The Power of Human Love
_Read: Song of Songs 7,8; Psalm 62; 1 Corinthians 7:25-40_
*Scripture:* Song of Songs 8: 6 Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. 7 Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
*Observation:* Critics often use the book "Song of Songs" to attack the Bible and its reliability. Some Christians struggle to explain the purpose of the "Song of Songs" in the Bible. There were attempts to downplay the Song of Songs and remove it from the Bible. Traditionally, Christians view the Song of Songs as an allegory of the love between God and Israel, Christ and the Church, and Christ and individual Christians. For example, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a notable eleventh-century monk, wrote 86 sermons on the first two chapters of the Song of Songs. However, biblical scholars warn against using the allegorical approach as it raises many questions.
To keep it simple, Song of Songs is an exchange of love between a married couple. We all would agree that human sexuality and love are the gifts of God. God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone," and created Eve. Marriage is a God-ordained relationship between a man and a woman. Song of Songs does not speak about a love relationship outside marriage or any illegal relationship. It speaks of the love that freely expresses the inner thoughts about the spouse and their thoughts of celebrating love.
In Song of Songs 8:6,7, we read the characteristics of marital love that it is strong, unyielding, and invincible in human experience. It helps us understand marital love's power and warns us that we cannot buy love with our wealth. Conjugal love is the mutual love between a husband and wife. It continues till death separates them. So, love needs proper care and time to sustain, grow, and prosper in it. Finally, marital love is a gift from God and should be honored accordingly.
*Application:* The world presents a distorted image of human sexuality and God's creation. The Bible helps me to understand the purpose of the marriage relationship and to express love. Jesus said, "A man will…be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh." (Mt.19:5-6). Hebrews 13:4 says, "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." I must be careful to love and honor God.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for imparting wisdom concerning human love and its usefulness in marriage life. Jesus, help me to love and obey my spouse as I love you. Lord, help us to remain in love for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 244
2September 2, 2026●(5 events)
September 2, 2026
Come now, let us reason together
_Read: Isaiah 1,2; Psalm 63; 1 Corinthians 8_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 1: 18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.
*Observation:* When a case is registered in a judicial court, both the complainant and respondent will present their arguments through an advocate. Then, based on the arguments and evidence presented before him, the judge will pronounce his verdict. We all know this procedure. In Isaiah 1, the Lord, the Judge of all the earth, invites his people to reason together. Lord condemns the Israelites for their disobedience and calls them to clean themselves from sins. As part of his call to repentance and obedience to God, he now invites them to reason with him and resolve their matter. A course correction opportunity is given to God's people to purify themselves from sins. Sin separates humanity from God and ruins the loving relationship between God and man. But the God of love offers his forgiveness and grace to the fallen man to reconcile and restore the relationship with God.
God's people should consider the blessedness of living under God's protection and the desolateness of living without God. We can reason with God and make decisions based on sound reasoning. God does not call us to blind faith. Instead, he calls us to the reasoned or rational faith that prompts us to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Though our sins are "like scarlet" and "red as crimson," God can wash away the stains of our sins and make us holy to the Lord. God's love for us is unconditional. However, his offer for forgiveness is conditional. We need to confess and repent from our sins and obey the Lord (v.19). There is no sin that God cannot forgive. God has compassion for us as a father has compassion for his children (Ps.103:13). "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 Jn.1:8,9).
*Application:* I should never forget that I am a sinner saved by God's grace. I cannot please God by a multitude of sacrifices and offerings. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise" (Ps.51:17). As I confess my sins and allow God to purify my heart, I should learn what God expects from me (Is.1:17) and obey him. I do not need a mediator to reason with God. Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, is my advocate with God the Father. I can "approach the throne of grace with confidence" (Heb.4:16).
*Prayer:* Gracious and compassionate God, thank you for your love that accepts me and purifies me from all sins. Jesus, help me be obedient to the Word of God and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 245
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 9: 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
*Observation:* An ancient Tamil poet wrote, "Easy to every man the speech that shows the way; Hard thing to shape one's life by the words they say!" For many people, their actions do not match their words. After mentioning his responsibility to preach the Gospel and his humility to win all people for Christ, Paul refers to two familiar scenes of the ancient world—running and boxing—to emphasize his commitment to serving the Lord. In any competition, only those who come first get the reward. However, all who participate in a game or competition would go through strict training. The Christian life, or our race of faith, is different from worldly contests. We Christians would get the eternal, unperishable, and glorious reward from the Lord. All who successfully complete the race will receive their due prize.
1 Cor.9:26 tells us about Paul's steadfast heart and the purpose of his Christian life. Paul does not want to be like someone unprepared and unequipped for a game. He controls and disciplines his body to avoid disqualification from the race. In other words, Paul does not allow his body to rule his life. Instead, he makes every effort to discipline his body. Paul is not talking about punishing his own body and leading an ascetic life. Rather, he expresses his heart's desire to practice what he preached to others.
As Paul writes to Romans, "Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness" (Romans 6:12,13). Let us remember that we are not our own but bought at a price.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should practice what I preach to others. God has called me with a purpose. So I should make every effort to do my best to serve him faithfully. A slave listens to and obeys his master. Likewise, I should train my body to obey and honor Jesus Christ to "receive the crown of glory that will never fade away" (1 Peter 5:4).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for helping me to understand your purpose for my life. Lord, give me your strength to discipline my body to obey you always. Jesus, help me to live as your own and holy for the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 246
4September 4, 2026●(5 events)
September 4, 2026
A principle to use our freedom in Christ
_Read: Isaiah 5,6; Psalm 65; 1 Corinthians 10_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 10: 23 "I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. 24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
*Observation:* Nowadays, we read and speak a lot about individual freedom and rights. Many people do not want to hear anything that questions their lifestyle and attitude towards others. They may use a popular phrase, "My life, my way," and try to justify their actions. Does an unbridled life guarantee joy without limits? We see many people who want to satisfy their selfish desires by exploiting and harming others. They find no permanent happiness in their pursuit of pleasure. Corinthian believers wrote to Paul concerning their rights, "Everything is permissible." The Corinth church had issues related to sexual immorality and eating the food offered to idols. They would have thought their physical actions would not affect their spiritual life. Apostle Paul did not wholly reject the idea of the right to do anything. However, he asks the Corinthian Christians to consider a few things in exercising their rights.
First, Paul told the Corinthian believers that although they have every right to do everything, "not everything is beneficial" (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). All people would agree that doing something useless is meaningless. Secondly, Paul warned that we should not allow our freedom to use anything to enslave us (1 Cor.6:12). Thirdly, Paul considered that "not everything is constructive." As Christians, we should be cautious in exercising our freedom in Christ. Christ did not liberate us from falling into the same traps that kept us away from God. We must evaluate everything to assess whether it is appropriate or not for our Christian living. As Christians, we should not indulge in things that are not constructive.
Finally, Paul advised the Corinthian believers to "seek the good of others." A self-centered life is against a Christ-centered life. Jesus Christ is our role model to live for the good of others. When we seek the welfare of others, it brings mutual joy. Moreover, we become the salt and light to the world. By considering the good of others, we fulfill the law of Christ (Gal.6:2). A selfish life never gives joy to others. However, a Christian who does good for others contributes to the development of society and spreads kindness and love everywhere.
*Application:* I should not allow anything to enslave me. I am not a slave to worldly customs and my selfish thoughts. I will do things that benefit all. I will spend my time and energy on constructive and edifying things. As Paul says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Gal.2:20).
*Prayer:* My God, thank you for opening my eyes to see how I can use my freedom in Christ to bless others. Jesus, help me to do everything for the glory of God. (v.31). Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 247
5September 5, 2026●(5 events)
September 5, 2026
God is with us
_Read: Isaiah 7,8; Psalm 66; 1 Corinthians 11_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 7: 10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 "Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." 12 But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test." 13 Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
*Observation:* Ahaz was one of the wicked kings of Judah who did not walk in the ways of the Lord but worshipped idols (2 Kings 16:1-4; 2 Chron.28:1-4). When the Syrian king and the Israelite king besieged Jerusalem, God spoke to Ahaz through his prophet Isaiah and gave him an opportunity to repent and return to the Lord (v.9). When the Lord asked Ahaz to ask for a sign, he replied, "I will not put the Lord to the test." It doesn't mean that he did not want to test the Lord. Instead, he was reluctant and not ready to accept God's offer of grace.
Ahaz asked for the Assyrians' help to protect him from the Syrian attack (2 Kings 16:7,8). Though Ahaz was unwilling to ask for a sign, God himself gave him a sign. However, the Assyrian king, even after receiving a large sum of silver and gold from Ahaz, "gave him trouble instead of help" (2 Chron.28:20). However, God was faithful in his words and gave Ahaz a sign of the virgin birth of Immanuel. God wanted to tell Ahaz that he could help him from his enemies. The Hebrew word Immanuel means God is with us.
Some people doubt whether it was a messianic prophecy or applicable only to Isaiah's time. Biblical prophecies often refer to things that would happen soon and would occur much later in the future. Here, we see the prediction about the arrival of the Messiah. This prophecy is fulfilled in the life of Jesus Christ (Mt.1:23, Lk.1:31-35). The wicked Ahaz wanted to please the pagan gods with the hope of receiving their help (2 Chron.28:23-25). But he did not get any support from them. God is always with us, whether we agree with it or not. When we allow God to work in our lives, he saves and delivers us. In difficult times, humans who could help us may abandon or trouble us. Our help "comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth" (Ps.121:2). "The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Ps.46:7,11). He is our ever-present help.
*Application:* The greatest promise of God to me is that Jesus the Immanuel is with me always, "to the very end of the age" (Mt.28:20). Therefore, I fear nothing. I must allow God to work in and through me. God's plans are better than my plans.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for being with me through your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, help me be with you always and live with the conscience that God is with me always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 248
6September 6, 2026●(5 events)
September 6, 2026
In Christ, all are equal
_Read: Isaiah 9,10; Psalm 67; 1 Corinthians 12_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 12: 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul responds to the Corinth church believers' question concerning spiritual gifts. Paul tells something important and applicable even to present-day churches. We see Christians everywhere argue against one another concerning questions like who is superior and who is inferior, who is strong and who is weak, who is useful and who is worthless. In most places, we see and appreciate only the forefront workers; those who work on the backdrop often go unnoticed. For example, those who clean the church never get the same attention as worship leaders or musicians.
Concerning spiritual gifts, Paul says that the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to all believers. However, we should know that there are different kinds of gifts. We should not expect and compel everyone to have the same gift. It is the Holy Spirit who determines which gift a believer should/would receive. We all are members of the body of Christ. So, each of us has a role or work in the church. We cannot/should not say to anyone, "I don't need you." Paul says weaker parts are indispensable in the body of Christ. Then Paul urges the Corinth believers to give "special honor," and "special modesty" to those who are weak. Paul suggests that the Corinth believers give honor and pay special attention to those who need the care and concerns of others. They should not be neglected at any cost.
While explaining the equality and importance of all parts of one body, Paul reminds the believers about the interdependence of each body part and its interconnectedness. No Christian could function alone. We may not realize the contribution of a body part to our well-being until it ceases to work. It is our responsibility to give the utmost care to every person in the Church. Every Christian and their service to the Church is vital. There should be no discrimination, inequalities, or divisions in God's family, i.e., the Church, the body of Christ. Partaking in the joy and suffering of other Christians is a part of true Christian living.
*Application:* The gift of the Holy Spirit is given to me for the common good. I should not boast about my spiritual gift and should never consider myself superior to others. I should use my spiritual gift for the good of others, not to gratify my desire and pride. Instead of humiliating Christians who consider themselves weak and worthless, I will/should give them special honor and special treatment to make sure that they understand they are essential to the body of Christ, just like others.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the spiritual gift that you have given to me. Jesus, help me to use the gift of the Holy Spirit to testify about your greatness and to help and honor others in Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 249
7September 7, 2026●(5 events)
September 7, 2026
LOVE is everything
_Read: Isaiah 11,12; Psalm 68; 1 Corinthians 13_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
*Observation:* For many Christians, 1 Corinthians 13 is one of their favorite chapters in the Bible. All who read it would readily accept the greatness of love described in 1 Cor.13. However, when asked about practicing such love, people would tell about their difficulties or excuses. They may say, apart from God, who could love like that? Some may say that we are trying to practice love; they may hope to achieve such love someday. In the first three verses of 1 Cor.13, Paul tells us that love is greater than spiritual gifts. Verses 4-7 tell about 15 features of love. In verses 8-13, Paul explains the enduring nature of love.
The word love has a range of meanings depending on the context. There are at least six Greek words for love: Agape, Eros, Philia, Storge, Philautia, and Xenia. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul uses "Agape," which refers to unconditional or selfless love. Many people think love is a concept, a philosophy, or a feeling. Interestingly, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes the actions of love. The Bible encourages, "Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." (1 Jn.3:18; 4:16). The Bible testifies that God loves us. As we read in Romans 5:8, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus Christ called us to remain in his love and commanded us, "Love each other as I have loved you" (Jn.15:9, 12).
Lack of love is one of the fundamental reasons that causes many problems in Christian families, churches, fellowships, workplaces, and organizations. It is our love that helps others. If there is no love in us, we will not use our spiritual gifts to benefit others. Love is the foundation of our Christian faith and hope. Loving one another is an oft-repeated command of Jesus and the New Testament teaching. Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (Jn.13:35).
*Application:* I have learned what is love and what is not love. First of all, love is not merely talking about it. It is about what I do in my actions. As I understand the greatness of love and its permanence, I must/will do my best to practice love in my life. I should love others just as Jesus loved me.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for your love for me. Jesus, help me to remain in love and love others every day. Lord, help me love you with all my heart, mind, soul, and all my strength. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 250
8September 8, 2026●(5 events)
September 8, 2026
Speak the words that edify others
_Read: Isaiah 13,14; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 14_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 14: 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
*Observation:* Recently, a reputed Anglican scholar shared his experience of speaking in tongues when he talked to his cousin concerning his worries about his work. It soon went viral all over the world; his testimony encouraged many Christians. A well-known Indian evangelist once shared his experience that he would spend a few days praying in tongues before every preaching. Speaking in tongues helps a Christian to edify himself. There is no valid reason to believe that the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased with the Early Church. The Bible or Paul never talks against speaking in tongues(v.39). However, he advised that it is better not to practice the spiritual gift of speaking tongues if there is no interpreter when speaking publicly in the Church (v.28). We need to understand why Paul said such a thing.
Paul explicitly said, "I speak in tongues more than all of you." So, Paul was certainly not saying anything against using the gift of speaking in a tongue. In 1 Corinthians 12, he said that a spiritual gift "is given for the common good." In his response to the Corinth believers' question concerning spiritual gifts, Paul encouraged them, "Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church." (v.12). In the Church, every Christian should be concerned about edifying one another. To that end, "five intelligible words" are better than the thousands of words we speak in tongues. In ancient Greece, 10000 (Myriad) was the largest number. In their eagerness for spiritual gifts, Corinth believers must have thought like children. Paul asked the Corinthians, "Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children."
In the pursuit of spiritual gifts, Christians should stop childish thinking and practices. At the same time, we should be like children without any evil desires or motives. Jesus said, "Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Mt.10:16). As Paul said to the Roman Church, we need to "be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil" (Rom.16:19). Above all, it is love that helps us use our spiritual gifts to edify and build others. Let us remember it and be careful to "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit."
*Application:* God has given me spiritual gifts. I should be careful in using them for his glory. Instead of satisfying myself by speaking so many words in the Church, I should/will be sensitive to the needs of others and speak the words that build and edify them.
*Prayer:* Almighty God, thank you for all the spiritual gifts you have given to every Christian. Jesus, help me to be aware of my spiritual gift(s) and use it appropriately to edify others in the Church. Holy Spirit, give me your strength to be/become a mature Christian. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 251
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
*Observation:* In Ancient society, people predominantly used oral tradition to pass on their knowledge and teachings from one generation to the next. Memorization of information was fundamental for the transmission of knowledge. Here, Paul refers to an authentic oral tradition of the Gospel that he shared with the Corinthian believers. In Galatians 1:11-12, Paul says that "by revelation," he received the Gospel directly from Jesus Christ. In other words, the Gospel that Paul preached was not his Gospel; Paul did not invent or make it up. Paul faithfully preached what he received. Paul was determined to preach the crucified Christ to the Corinth Church (1 Cor.1:23, 2:2).
All people die; people may ask what is unique in Christ's death. Jesus's death was not an ordinary one. He died for our sins, according to the Scriptures. We see the fulfillment of many Old Testament messianic prophecies in Christ's death. Through his death, Jesus made propitiation for our sins. We see the demonstration of God's love in Jesus's death (Rom.5:8). Apostle Peter says, "He (Jesus) himself bore our sins" in his body on the Cross so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness" (1 Pet. 2:24).
The burial of Jesus signifies that his death was not fake. The Gospel of Mark says, "Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead" (Mk.15:44). There was no doubt about his death. There is no basis for the swoon theory that says Jesus was unconscious or in a deep coma. Again, according to the Scriptures, Jesus was raised on the third day. Jesus' resurrection was the central message of the apostolic teaching. Christ's resurrection is not a fable. The New Testament gives us a list of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and presents eyewitnesses' testimonies. Paul mentions six of Christ's appearances in this chapter. Jesus' resurrection is a historical fact. As one scholar says, "Belief in the Resurrection is not an appendage to the Christian faith; it is the Christian faith." We Christians must understand the message of the Gospel to explain it clearly to those who ask and question us. We are responsible for passing on the Gospel to others who have not yet heard it.
*Application:* I believe Jesus died for my sins. He was buried and raised on the third day. Jesus is alive even today. God has given me new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Pet.1:3). "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes" (Rom.1:16).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the great love that you have shown for me. Jesus, thank you for the Cross in which you bore my sins and made atonement with God. Lord, you are alive and unchanging even today. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to spread the light of the Gospel that displays the glory of Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 252
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul first explains that Christ's resurrection is fundamental to the Christian faith. Secondly, he speaks about the resurrection of the dead. Thirdly, Paul talks about the resurrection of the body. The resurrection of Christ gives us hope for our future and assurance of our eternal life. In Christ, we have hope for eternity and resurrection. The Bible calls it "the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). In verse 57, Paul reminds us that we are victorious through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ's victory is ours.
Paul's connective word "therefore" refers to all the preceding 57 verses that he wrote about the resurrection matter. With that in mind, he encourages believers to stand firm and be bold. Whatever we do for the Lord never goes in vain. The Lord blesses our efforts and desires that we want to do for him and makes us victorious. We need to be faithful in doing what the Lord entrusted us. We may sometimes be disappointed when we see no apparent result of our work. However, we should not lose our enthusiasm to work for the Lord or make any half-hearted efforts. We must pay our undivided attention to the work of the Lord. When Christ comes, we will receive our reward, the crown that God has prepared for us. God is not unjust to forget our work and love. Notice: Paul says about the certainty of our resurrection. However, he does not mention when it would happen. Instead, Paul prepares the mind of believers for their resurrection (v.51,52). Further, he encourages them to be determined in their work for the Lord. Therefore, we should give our 100% effort and energy to the work of the Lord.
*Application:* My life does not end with the earth. I will inherit the Kingdom of God and will live with God in eternity. Jesus Christ gives me victory over the law of sin and death. My work and efforts for the Kingdom of God are not useless. I will do everything for the glory of the Lord.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the hope of glory you have given to me. Lord Jesus, help me give my best to God's work and Kingdom. Holy Spirit, help me be steadfast and strong in the Lord and in the work I do for him. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 253
11September 11, 2026●(5 events)
September 11, 2026
Secrets for a Successful Christian Life
_Read: Isaiah 19,20; Psalm 72; 1 Corinthians 16_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 16: 13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
*Observation:* In the first epistle to Corinthians, Apostle Paul responds to some of the problems in the Corinth church and questions of the believers. There were issues like divisions, lawsuits, sexual immoralities, sinful temptations, and misunderstandings about the spiritual gifts and resurrection among the Corinthian believers. Paul answers all of them in the preceding chapters. Here, in his concluding remarks, Paul reminds and commands five things to the Corinth believers. The Corinthian believers need to keep the main thing the main.
In verse 13, we see a tetrad (i.e., a set of four things) for victorious Christian living. These four commands appear like military commands. The first command, "Be on your guard," reminds us that we should be careful to oblige our responsibility as Christians regardless of what we face or what happens to us. We need to stand firm in the faith because it helps us resist the devil who "prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Pet.5:8,9). Satan can do nothing against a believer who remains firm in his/her faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul admonished the Corinth believers to think like adults, not like children (1 Cor.3:1; 13:11; 14:20). We should be courageous as mature Christians. We should be careful not to fall (1 Cor.10:12). The strength we need comes from the Lord Jesus. We always need to "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Eph.6:10). These four things are interconnected, and each of them is vital for a victorious Christian life. Finally, in verse 14, Paul reminds, "do everything in love." In chapter 13, we read Paul's description of the greatness and importance of love in Christian life. Loving God and loving one another are not just great commandments but the way of life for every Christian who wants to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should not live according to worldly customs and practices. I should not "conform to the pattern of this world" (Rom.12:2). I need to be watchful of my walk with the Lord and remain firm in my faith. Jesus already overcame the world. Jesus gives me the strength to be courageous and strong to stand against the enemy, the devil. I am not "under the law, but under grace" (Rom.6:14). Sin and Satan have no power over me. God's love enables me to do everything in love.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for teaching me the secrets to being a faithful Christian. Lord, help me live "like a good soldier of Christ Jesus" today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 254
12September 12, 2026●(5 events)
September 12, 2026
Earthly and eternal blessing
_Read: Isaiah 21,22; Psalm 73; 2 Corinthians 1_
*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Observation:* Until the psalmist started to see the wicked from God's perspective, he was jealous of the prosperity of the wicked and could not see things clearly. Soon after the psalmist entered the sanctuary, he understood his thoughts were senseless and vague. Seeing the world from the Lord's perspective helps us to understand everything. Although the psalmist almost slipped, God did not abandon him. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we are faithless, he (God) remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Tim.2:13). God's counsel helps us overcome our mental struggles and will lead us to see our real blessings.
The psalmist was able to see that there is no blessing or prosperity greater than our God. The psalmist must have understood the perishability of worldly blessings. It made him confess that God is more desirable than anything, both in heaven and on earth. In Christ, we have blessings for the present and hope for the future. God is our strength and hope. Meanwhile, the wicked and unfaithful have no such expectations or future in Christ. God is our eternal hope and everlasting blessing. God is sufficient for us. We must keep our eyes on God instead of looking at others' earthly blessings.
*Application:* Jesus assures me of my life on earth and offers hope for the future to live with God in heaven. As long as I see things from my perspective through my selfish lens, I will not see God. I should focus on knowing Jesus Christ and be ready to lose anything for him (Phil.3:8). For that to happen, I should first seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Then, I will have everything I need.
*Prayer:* Father God, my eyes are on you. Lord, you are my strength, blessing, and portion in life. Jesus, help me to humble myself and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 255
_Read: Song of Songs 5,6; Psalm 61; 1 Corinthians 7:1-24_
*Scripture:* Psalm 61: 1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
*Observation:* Praying is a common practice in almost all religions of the world. People think that prayer helps them to make their plea known to God. So, prayer gives them a kind of mental satisfaction. In many religions, people don’t expect an answer from their deity. However, our prayers to God are two-way communication. When we pray, we expect an answer from God. The Bible says our God is the one who answers our prayers. David, the psalmist, did not mention the situation of his prayer in Psalm 61. We understand from verse 2 that he must have been in a severe crisis that made him think he was close to death. We can pray to God anytime and from any corner of the world. When our situations overwhelm us and weaken our hearts, we may lose grip of our lives and feel like we are standing in quicksand. It seems the psalmist was in such a dreadful situation that he could not speak much. However, he called for God’s help. In verse 3, David asks God to lead him to the solid rock where he can stand firm. David was sure that the Lord was his rock, which he has repeatedly mentioned elsewhere in the book of Psalms.
The difficult times of our lives make us aware that we need God’s help. The God who helped us in the past can help us in our present storms and struggles. God is our rock; he is our refuge and a strong tower to protect us from any dangers and attacks from the enemy. We have the confidence that God listens to our prayers and answers them. Therefore, whenever we find ourselves in an unmanageable situation or trouble, we can call God and plead with him to answer our prayers. God knows our needs even before we pray to him. When we call him “Abba, Father,” he responds to our prayers and leads us to do his will.
*Application:* I can pray to God always and in all places. When I begin to pray, I receive hope and assurance of deliverance from God. God strengthens me to stand firm against the tides and leads me to the rock higher than I. “He will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help” (Ps.72:12). God is my refuge, shield, fortress, strong tower, and my salvation.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for all the answers to the prayers of my heart. Lord, thank you for listening to me when I call you from the depths. Jesus, you are worthy of praise and worship. Lord, help me to praise you gladly and serve you faithfully. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 243
1September 1, 2026●(5 events)
September 1, 2026
The Power of Human Love
_Read: Song of Songs 7,8; Psalm 62; 1 Corinthians 7:25-40_
*Scripture:* Song of Songs 8: 6 Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. 7 Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
*Observation:* Critics often use the book "Song of Songs" to attack the Bible and its reliability. Some Christians struggle to explain the purpose of the "Song of Songs" in the Bible. There were attempts to downplay the Song of Songs and remove it from the Bible. Traditionally, Christians view the Song of Songs as an allegory of the love between God and Israel, Christ and the Church, and Christ and individual Christians. For example, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a notable eleventh-century monk, wrote 86 sermons on the first two chapters of the Song of Songs. However, biblical scholars warn against using the allegorical approach as it raises many questions.
To keep it simple, Song of Songs is an exchange of love between a married couple. We all would agree that human sexuality and love are the gifts of God. God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone," and created Eve. Marriage is a God-ordained relationship between a man and a woman. Song of Songs does not speak about a love relationship outside marriage or any illegal relationship. It speaks of the love that freely expresses the inner thoughts about the spouse and their thoughts of celebrating love.
In Song of Songs 8:6,7, we read the characteristics of marital love that it is strong, unyielding, and invincible in human experience. It helps us understand marital love's power and warns us that we cannot buy love with our wealth. Conjugal love is the mutual love between a husband and wife. It continues till death separates them. So, love needs proper care and time to sustain, grow, and prosper in it. Finally, marital love is a gift from God and should be honored accordingly.
*Application:* The world presents a distorted image of human sexuality and God's creation. The Bible helps me to understand the purpose of the marriage relationship and to express love. Jesus said, "A man will…be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh." (Mt.19:5-6). Hebrews 13:4 says, "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." I must be careful to love and honor God.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for imparting wisdom concerning human love and its usefulness in marriage life. Jesus, help me to love and obey my spouse as I love you. Lord, help us to remain in love for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 244
2September 2, 2026●(5 events)
September 2, 2026
Come now, let us reason together
_Read: Isaiah 1,2; Psalm 63; 1 Corinthians 8_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 1: 18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.
*Observation:* When a case is registered in a judicial court, both the complainant and respondent will present their arguments through an advocate. Then, based on the arguments and evidence presented before him, the judge will pronounce his verdict. We all know this procedure. In Isaiah 1, the Lord, the Judge of all the earth, invites his people to reason together. Lord condemns the Israelites for their disobedience and calls them to clean themselves from sins. As part of his call to repentance and obedience to God, he now invites them to reason with him and resolve their matter. A course correction opportunity is given to God's people to purify themselves from sins. Sin separates humanity from God and ruins the loving relationship between God and man. But the God of love offers his forgiveness and grace to the fallen man to reconcile and restore the relationship with God.
God's people should consider the blessedness of living under God's protection and the desolateness of living without God. We can reason with God and make decisions based on sound reasoning. God does not call us to blind faith. Instead, he calls us to the reasoned or rational faith that prompts us to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Though our sins are "like scarlet" and "red as crimson," God can wash away the stains of our sins and make us holy to the Lord. God's love for us is unconditional. However, his offer for forgiveness is conditional. We need to confess and repent from our sins and obey the Lord (v.19). There is no sin that God cannot forgive. God has compassion for us as a father has compassion for his children (Ps.103:13). "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 Jn.1:8,9).
*Application:* I should never forget that I am a sinner saved by God's grace. I cannot please God by a multitude of sacrifices and offerings. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise" (Ps.51:17). As I confess my sins and allow God to purify my heart, I should learn what God expects from me (Is.1:17) and obey him. I do not need a mediator to reason with God. Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, is my advocate with God the Father. I can "approach the throne of grace with confidence" (Heb.4:16).
*Prayer:* Gracious and compassionate God, thank you for your love that accepts me and purifies me from all sins. Jesus, help me be obedient to the Word of God and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 245
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 9: 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
*Observation:* An ancient Tamil poet wrote, "Easy to every man the speech that shows the way; Hard thing to shape one's life by the words they say!" For many people, their actions do not match their words. After mentioning his responsibility to preach the Gospel and his humility to win all people for Christ, Paul refers to two familiar scenes of the ancient world—running and boxing—to emphasize his commitment to serving the Lord. In any competition, only those who come first get the reward. However, all who participate in a game or competition would go through strict training. The Christian life, or our race of faith, is different from worldly contests. We Christians would get the eternal, unperishable, and glorious reward from the Lord. All who successfully complete the race will receive their due prize.
1 Cor.9:26 tells us about Paul's steadfast heart and the purpose of his Christian life. Paul does not want to be like someone unprepared and unequipped for a game. He controls and disciplines his body to avoid disqualification from the race. In other words, Paul does not allow his body to rule his life. Instead, he makes every effort to discipline his body. Paul is not talking about punishing his own body and leading an ascetic life. Rather, he expresses his heart's desire to practice what he preached to others.
As Paul writes to Romans, "Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness" (Romans 6:12,13). Let us remember that we are not our own but bought at a price.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should practice what I preach to others. God has called me with a purpose. So I should make every effort to do my best to serve him faithfully. A slave listens to and obeys his master. Likewise, I should train my body to obey and honor Jesus Christ to "receive the crown of glory that will never fade away" (1 Peter 5:4).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for helping me to understand your purpose for my life. Lord, give me your strength to discipline my body to obey you always. Jesus, help me to live as your own and holy for the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 246
4September 4, 2026●(5 events)
September 4, 2026
A principle to use our freedom in Christ
_Read: Isaiah 5,6; Psalm 65; 1 Corinthians 10_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 10: 23 "I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. 24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
*Observation:* Nowadays, we read and speak a lot about individual freedom and rights. Many people do not want to hear anything that questions their lifestyle and attitude towards others. They may use a popular phrase, "My life, my way," and try to justify their actions. Does an unbridled life guarantee joy without limits? We see many people who want to satisfy their selfish desires by exploiting and harming others. They find no permanent happiness in their pursuit of pleasure. Corinthian believers wrote to Paul concerning their rights, "Everything is permissible." The Corinth church had issues related to sexual immorality and eating the food offered to idols. They would have thought their physical actions would not affect their spiritual life. Apostle Paul did not wholly reject the idea of the right to do anything. However, he asks the Corinthian Christians to consider a few things in exercising their rights.
First, Paul told the Corinthian believers that although they have every right to do everything, "not everything is beneficial" (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). All people would agree that doing something useless is meaningless. Secondly, Paul warned that we should not allow our freedom to use anything to enslave us (1 Cor.6:12). Thirdly, Paul considered that "not everything is constructive." As Christians, we should be cautious in exercising our freedom in Christ. Christ did not liberate us from falling into the same traps that kept us away from God. We must evaluate everything to assess whether it is appropriate or not for our Christian living. As Christians, we should not indulge in things that are not constructive.
Finally, Paul advised the Corinthian believers to "seek the good of others." A self-centered life is against a Christ-centered life. Jesus Christ is our role model to live for the good of others. When we seek the welfare of others, it brings mutual joy. Moreover, we become the salt and light to the world. By considering the good of others, we fulfill the law of Christ (Gal.6:2). A selfish life never gives joy to others. However, a Christian who does good for others contributes to the development of society and spreads kindness and love everywhere.
*Application:* I should not allow anything to enslave me. I am not a slave to worldly customs and my selfish thoughts. I will do things that benefit all. I will spend my time and energy on constructive and edifying things. As Paul says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Gal.2:20).
*Prayer:* My God, thank you for opening my eyes to see how I can use my freedom in Christ to bless others. Jesus, help me to do everything for the glory of God. (v.31). Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 247
5September 5, 2026●(5 events)
September 5, 2026
God is with us
_Read: Isaiah 7,8; Psalm 66; 1 Corinthians 11_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 7: 10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 "Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." 12 But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test." 13 Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
*Observation:* Ahaz was one of the wicked kings of Judah who did not walk in the ways of the Lord but worshipped idols (2 Kings 16:1-4; 2 Chron.28:1-4). When the Syrian king and the Israelite king besieged Jerusalem, God spoke to Ahaz through his prophet Isaiah and gave him an opportunity to repent and return to the Lord (v.9). When the Lord asked Ahaz to ask for a sign, he replied, "I will not put the Lord to the test." It doesn't mean that he did not want to test the Lord. Instead, he was reluctant and not ready to accept God's offer of grace.
Ahaz asked for the Assyrians' help to protect him from the Syrian attack (2 Kings 16:7,8). Though Ahaz was unwilling to ask for a sign, God himself gave him a sign. However, the Assyrian king, even after receiving a large sum of silver and gold from Ahaz, "gave him trouble instead of help" (2 Chron.28:20). However, God was faithful in his words and gave Ahaz a sign of the virgin birth of Immanuel. God wanted to tell Ahaz that he could help him from his enemies. The Hebrew word Immanuel means God is with us.
Some people doubt whether it was a messianic prophecy or applicable only to Isaiah's time. Biblical prophecies often refer to things that would happen soon and would occur much later in the future. Here, we see the prediction about the arrival of the Messiah. This prophecy is fulfilled in the life of Jesus Christ (Mt.1:23, Lk.1:31-35). The wicked Ahaz wanted to please the pagan gods with the hope of receiving their help (2 Chron.28:23-25). But he did not get any support from them. God is always with us, whether we agree with it or not. When we allow God to work in our lives, he saves and delivers us. In difficult times, humans who could help us may abandon or trouble us. Our help "comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth" (Ps.121:2). "The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Ps.46:7,11). He is our ever-present help.
*Application:* The greatest promise of God to me is that Jesus the Immanuel is with me always, "to the very end of the age" (Mt.28:20). Therefore, I fear nothing. I must allow God to work in and through me. God's plans are better than my plans.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for being with me through your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, help me be with you always and live with the conscience that God is with me always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 248
6September 6, 2026●(5 events)
September 6, 2026
In Christ, all are equal
_Read: Isaiah 9,10; Psalm 67; 1 Corinthians 12_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 12: 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul responds to the Corinth church believers' question concerning spiritual gifts. Paul tells something important and applicable even to present-day churches. We see Christians everywhere argue against one another concerning questions like who is superior and who is inferior, who is strong and who is weak, who is useful and who is worthless. In most places, we see and appreciate only the forefront workers; those who work on the backdrop often go unnoticed. For example, those who clean the church never get the same attention as worship leaders or musicians.
Concerning spiritual gifts, Paul says that the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to all believers. However, we should know that there are different kinds of gifts. We should not expect and compel everyone to have the same gift. It is the Holy Spirit who determines which gift a believer should/would receive. We all are members of the body of Christ. So, each of us has a role or work in the church. We cannot/should not say to anyone, "I don't need you." Paul says weaker parts are indispensable in the body of Christ. Then Paul urges the Corinth believers to give "special honor," and "special modesty" to those who are weak. Paul suggests that the Corinth believers give honor and pay special attention to those who need the care and concerns of others. They should not be neglected at any cost.
While explaining the equality and importance of all parts of one body, Paul reminds the believers about the interdependence of each body part and its interconnectedness. No Christian could function alone. We may not realize the contribution of a body part to our well-being until it ceases to work. It is our responsibility to give the utmost care to every person in the Church. Every Christian and their service to the Church is vital. There should be no discrimination, inequalities, or divisions in God's family, i.e., the Church, the body of Christ. Partaking in the joy and suffering of other Christians is a part of true Christian living.
*Application:* The gift of the Holy Spirit is given to me for the common good. I should not boast about my spiritual gift and should never consider myself superior to others. I should use my spiritual gift for the good of others, not to gratify my desire and pride. Instead of humiliating Christians who consider themselves weak and worthless, I will/should give them special honor and special treatment to make sure that they understand they are essential to the body of Christ, just like others.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the spiritual gift that you have given to me. Jesus, help me to use the gift of the Holy Spirit to testify about your greatness and to help and honor others in Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 249
7September 7, 2026●(5 events)
September 7, 2026
LOVE is everything
_Read: Isaiah 11,12; Psalm 68; 1 Corinthians 13_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
*Observation:* For many Christians, 1 Corinthians 13 is one of their favorite chapters in the Bible. All who read it would readily accept the greatness of love described in 1 Cor.13. However, when asked about practicing such love, people would tell about their difficulties or excuses. They may say, apart from God, who could love like that? Some may say that we are trying to practice love; they may hope to achieve such love someday. In the first three verses of 1 Cor.13, Paul tells us that love is greater than spiritual gifts. Verses 4-7 tell about 15 features of love. In verses 8-13, Paul explains the enduring nature of love.
The word love has a range of meanings depending on the context. There are at least six Greek words for love: Agape, Eros, Philia, Storge, Philautia, and Xenia. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul uses "Agape," which refers to unconditional or selfless love. Many people think love is a concept, a philosophy, or a feeling. Interestingly, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes the actions of love. The Bible encourages, "Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." (1 Jn.3:18; 4:16). The Bible testifies that God loves us. As we read in Romans 5:8, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus Christ called us to remain in his love and commanded us, "Love each other as I have loved you" (Jn.15:9, 12).
Lack of love is one of the fundamental reasons that causes many problems in Christian families, churches, fellowships, workplaces, and organizations. It is our love that helps others. If there is no love in us, we will not use our spiritual gifts to benefit others. Love is the foundation of our Christian faith and hope. Loving one another is an oft-repeated command of Jesus and the New Testament teaching. Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (Jn.13:35).
*Application:* I have learned what is love and what is not love. First of all, love is not merely talking about it. It is about what I do in my actions. As I understand the greatness of love and its permanence, I must/will do my best to practice love in my life. I should love others just as Jesus loved me.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for your love for me. Jesus, help me to remain in love and love others every day. Lord, help me love you with all my heart, mind, soul, and all my strength. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 250
8September 8, 2026●(5 events)
September 8, 2026
Speak the words that edify others
_Read: Isaiah 13,14; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 14_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 14: 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
*Observation:* Recently, a reputed Anglican scholar shared his experience of speaking in tongues when he talked to his cousin concerning his worries about his work. It soon went viral all over the world; his testimony encouraged many Christians. A well-known Indian evangelist once shared his experience that he would spend a few days praying in tongues before every preaching. Speaking in tongues helps a Christian to edify himself. There is no valid reason to believe that the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased with the Early Church. The Bible or Paul never talks against speaking in tongues(v.39). However, he advised that it is better not to practice the spiritual gift of speaking tongues if there is no interpreter when speaking publicly in the Church (v.28). We need to understand why Paul said such a thing.
Paul explicitly said, "I speak in tongues more than all of you." So, Paul was certainly not saying anything against using the gift of speaking in a tongue. In 1 Corinthians 12, he said that a spiritual gift "is given for the common good." In his response to the Corinth believers' question concerning spiritual gifts, Paul encouraged them, "Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church." (v.12). In the Church, every Christian should be concerned about edifying one another. To that end, "five intelligible words" are better than the thousands of words we speak in tongues. In ancient Greece, 10000 (Myriad) was the largest number. In their eagerness for spiritual gifts, Corinth believers must have thought like children. Paul asked the Corinthians, "Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children."
In the pursuit of spiritual gifts, Christians should stop childish thinking and practices. At the same time, we should be like children without any evil desires or motives. Jesus said, "Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Mt.10:16). As Paul said to the Roman Church, we need to "be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil" (Rom.16:19). Above all, it is love that helps us use our spiritual gifts to edify and build others. Let us remember it and be careful to "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit."
*Application:* God has given me spiritual gifts. I should be careful in using them for his glory. Instead of satisfying myself by speaking so many words in the Church, I should/will be sensitive to the needs of others and speak the words that build and edify them.
*Prayer:* Almighty God, thank you for all the spiritual gifts you have given to every Christian. Jesus, help me to be aware of my spiritual gift(s) and use it appropriately to edify others in the Church. Holy Spirit, give me your strength to be/become a mature Christian. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 251
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
*Observation:* In Ancient society, people predominantly used oral tradition to pass on their knowledge and teachings from one generation to the next. Memorization of information was fundamental for the transmission of knowledge. Here, Paul refers to an authentic oral tradition of the Gospel that he shared with the Corinthian believers. In Galatians 1:11-12, Paul says that "by revelation," he received the Gospel directly from Jesus Christ. In other words, the Gospel that Paul preached was not his Gospel; Paul did not invent or make it up. Paul faithfully preached what he received. Paul was determined to preach the crucified Christ to the Corinth Church (1 Cor.1:23, 2:2).
All people die; people may ask what is unique in Christ's death. Jesus's death was not an ordinary one. He died for our sins, according to the Scriptures. We see the fulfillment of many Old Testament messianic prophecies in Christ's death. Through his death, Jesus made propitiation for our sins. We see the demonstration of God's love in Jesus's death (Rom.5:8). Apostle Peter says, "He (Jesus) himself bore our sins" in his body on the Cross so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness" (1 Pet. 2:24).
The burial of Jesus signifies that his death was not fake. The Gospel of Mark says, "Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead" (Mk.15:44). There was no doubt about his death. There is no basis for the swoon theory that says Jesus was unconscious or in a deep coma. Again, according to the Scriptures, Jesus was raised on the third day. Jesus' resurrection was the central message of the apostolic teaching. Christ's resurrection is not a fable. The New Testament gives us a list of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and presents eyewitnesses' testimonies. Paul mentions six of Christ's appearances in this chapter. Jesus' resurrection is a historical fact. As one scholar says, "Belief in the Resurrection is not an appendage to the Christian faith; it is the Christian faith." We Christians must understand the message of the Gospel to explain it clearly to those who ask and question us. We are responsible for passing on the Gospel to others who have not yet heard it.
*Application:* I believe Jesus died for my sins. He was buried and raised on the third day. Jesus is alive even today. God has given me new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Pet.1:3). "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes" (Rom.1:16).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the great love that you have shown for me. Jesus, thank you for the Cross in which you bore my sins and made atonement with God. Lord, you are alive and unchanging even today. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to spread the light of the Gospel that displays the glory of Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 252
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul first explains that Christ's resurrection is fundamental to the Christian faith. Secondly, he speaks about the resurrection of the dead. Thirdly, Paul talks about the resurrection of the body. The resurrection of Christ gives us hope for our future and assurance of our eternal life. In Christ, we have hope for eternity and resurrection. The Bible calls it "the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). In verse 57, Paul reminds us that we are victorious through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ's victory is ours.
Paul's connective word "therefore" refers to all the preceding 57 verses that he wrote about the resurrection matter. With that in mind, he encourages believers to stand firm and be bold. Whatever we do for the Lord never goes in vain. The Lord blesses our efforts and desires that we want to do for him and makes us victorious. We need to be faithful in doing what the Lord entrusted us. We may sometimes be disappointed when we see no apparent result of our work. However, we should not lose our enthusiasm to work for the Lord or make any half-hearted efforts. We must pay our undivided attention to the work of the Lord. When Christ comes, we will receive our reward, the crown that God has prepared for us. God is not unjust to forget our work and love. Notice: Paul says about the certainty of our resurrection. However, he does not mention when it would happen. Instead, Paul prepares the mind of believers for their resurrection (v.51,52). Further, he encourages them to be determined in their work for the Lord. Therefore, we should give our 100% effort and energy to the work of the Lord.
*Application:* My life does not end with the earth. I will inherit the Kingdom of God and will live with God in eternity. Jesus Christ gives me victory over the law of sin and death. My work and efforts for the Kingdom of God are not useless. I will do everything for the glory of the Lord.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the hope of glory you have given to me. Lord Jesus, help me give my best to God's work and Kingdom. Holy Spirit, help me be steadfast and strong in the Lord and in the work I do for him. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 253
11September 11, 2026●(5 events)
September 11, 2026
Secrets for a Successful Christian Life
_Read: Isaiah 19,20; Psalm 72; 1 Corinthians 16_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 16: 13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
*Observation:* In the first epistle to Corinthians, Apostle Paul responds to some of the problems in the Corinth church and questions of the believers. There were issues like divisions, lawsuits, sexual immoralities, sinful temptations, and misunderstandings about the spiritual gifts and resurrection among the Corinthian believers. Paul answers all of them in the preceding chapters. Here, in his concluding remarks, Paul reminds and commands five things to the Corinth believers. The Corinthian believers need to keep the main thing the main.
In verse 13, we see a tetrad (i.e., a set of four things) for victorious Christian living. These four commands appear like military commands. The first command, "Be on your guard," reminds us that we should be careful to oblige our responsibility as Christians regardless of what we face or what happens to us. We need to stand firm in the faith because it helps us resist the devil who "prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Pet.5:8,9). Satan can do nothing against a believer who remains firm in his/her faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul admonished the Corinth believers to think like adults, not like children (1 Cor.3:1; 13:11; 14:20). We should be courageous as mature Christians. We should be careful not to fall (1 Cor.10:12). The strength we need comes from the Lord Jesus. We always need to "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Eph.6:10). These four things are interconnected, and each of them is vital for a victorious Christian life. Finally, in verse 14, Paul reminds, "do everything in love." In chapter 13, we read Paul's description of the greatness and importance of love in Christian life. Loving God and loving one another are not just great commandments but the way of life for every Christian who wants to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should not live according to worldly customs and practices. I should not "conform to the pattern of this world" (Rom.12:2). I need to be watchful of my walk with the Lord and remain firm in my faith. Jesus already overcame the world. Jesus gives me the strength to be courageous and strong to stand against the enemy, the devil. I am not "under the law, but under grace" (Rom.6:14). Sin and Satan have no power over me. God's love enables me to do everything in love.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for teaching me the secrets to being a faithful Christian. Lord, help me live "like a good soldier of Christ Jesus" today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 254
12September 12, 2026●(5 events)
September 12, 2026
Earthly and eternal blessing
_Read: Isaiah 21,22; Psalm 73; 2 Corinthians 1_
*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Observation:* Until the psalmist started to see the wicked from God's perspective, he was jealous of the prosperity of the wicked and could not see things clearly. Soon after the psalmist entered the sanctuary, he understood his thoughts were senseless and vague. Seeing the world from the Lord's perspective helps us to understand everything. Although the psalmist almost slipped, God did not abandon him. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we are faithless, he (God) remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Tim.2:13). God's counsel helps us overcome our mental struggles and will lead us to see our real blessings.
The psalmist was able to see that there is no blessing or prosperity greater than our God. The psalmist must have understood the perishability of worldly blessings. It made him confess that God is more desirable than anything, both in heaven and on earth. In Christ, we have blessings for the present and hope for the future. God is our strength and hope. Meanwhile, the wicked and unfaithful have no such expectations or future in Christ. God is our eternal hope and everlasting blessing. God is sufficient for us. We must keep our eyes on God instead of looking at others' earthly blessings.
*Application:* Jesus assures me of my life on earth and offers hope for the future to live with God in heaven. As long as I see things from my perspective through my selfish lens, I will not see God. I should focus on knowing Jesus Christ and be ready to lose anything for him (Phil.3:8). For that to happen, I should first seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Then, I will have everything I need.
*Prayer:* Father God, my eyes are on you. Lord, you are my strength, blessing, and portion in life. Jesus, help me to humble myself and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 255
13September 13, 2026
14September 14, 2026
15September 15, 2026
16September 16, 2026
17September 17, 2026
18September 18, 2026
19September 19, 2026
20September 20, 2026
21September 21, 2026
22September 22, 2026
23September 23, 2026
24September 24, 2026
25September 25, 2026
26September 26, 2026
27September 27, 2026
28September 28, 2026
29September 29, 2026
30September 30, 2026
1October 1, 2026
2October 2, 2026
3October 3, 2026
4October 4, 2026
Quiet Time Meditations in September 2026
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31August 31, 2026●(5 events)
– August 31, 2026
*Hear my prayer and answer me*
_Read: Song of Songs 5,6; Psalm 61; 1 Corinthians 7:1-24_
*Scripture:* Psalm 61: 1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
*Observation:* Praying is a common practice in almost all religions of the world. People think that prayer helps them to make their plea known to God. So, prayer gives them a kind of mental satisfaction. In many religions, people don’t expect an answer from their deity. However, our prayers to God are two-way communication. When we pray, we expect an answer from God. The Bible says our God is the one who answers our prayers. David, the psalmist, did not mention the situation of his prayer in Psalm 61. We understand from verse 2 that he must have been in a severe crisis that made him think he was close to death. We can pray to God anytime and from any corner of the world. When our situations overwhelm us and weaken our hearts, we may lose grip of our lives and feel like we are standing in quicksand. It seems the psalmist was in such a dreadful situation that he could not speak much. However, he called for God’s help. In verse 3, David asks God to lead him to the solid rock where he can stand firm. David was sure that the Lord was his rock, which he has repeatedly mentioned elsewhere in the book of Psalms.
The difficult times of our lives make us aware that we need God’s help. The God who helped us in the past can help us in our present storms and struggles. God is our rock; he is our refuge and a strong tower to protect us from any dangers and attacks from the enemy. We have the confidence that God listens to our prayers and answers them. Therefore, whenever we find ourselves in an unmanageable situation or trouble, we can call God and plead with him to answer our prayers. God knows our needs even before we pray to him. When we call him “Abba, Father,” he responds to our prayers and leads us to do his will.
*Application:* I can pray to God always and in all places. When I begin to pray, I receive hope and assurance of deliverance from God. God strengthens me to stand firm against the tides and leads me to the rock higher than I. “He will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help” (Ps.72:12). God is my refuge, shield, fortress, strong tower, and my salvation.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for all the answers to the prayers of my heart. Lord, thank you for listening to me when I call you from the depths. Jesus, you are worthy of praise and worship. Lord, help me to praise you gladly and serve you faithfully. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 243
1September 1, 2026●(5 events)
September 1, 2026
The Power of Human Love
_Read: Song of Songs 7,8; Psalm 62; 1 Corinthians 7:25-40_
*Scripture:* Song of Songs 8: 6 Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. 7 Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
*Observation:* Critics often use the book "Song of Songs" to attack the Bible and its reliability. Some Christians struggle to explain the purpose of the "Song of Songs" in the Bible. There were attempts to downplay the Song of Songs and remove it from the Bible. Traditionally, Christians view the Song of Songs as an allegory of the love between God and Israel, Christ and the Church, and Christ and individual Christians. For example, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a notable eleventh-century monk, wrote 86 sermons on the first two chapters of the Song of Songs. However, biblical scholars warn against using the allegorical approach as it raises many questions.
To keep it simple, Song of Songs is an exchange of love between a married couple. We all would agree that human sexuality and love are the gifts of God. God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone," and created Eve. Marriage is a God-ordained relationship between a man and a woman. Song of Songs does not speak about a love relationship outside marriage or any illegal relationship. It speaks of the love that freely expresses the inner thoughts about the spouse and their thoughts of celebrating love.
In Song of Songs 8:6,7, we read the characteristics of marital love that it is strong, unyielding, and invincible in human experience. It helps us understand marital love's power and warns us that we cannot buy love with our wealth. Conjugal love is the mutual love between a husband and wife. It continues till death separates them. So, love needs proper care and time to sustain, grow, and prosper in it. Finally, marital love is a gift from God and should be honored accordingly.
*Application:* The world presents a distorted image of human sexuality and God's creation. The Bible helps me to understand the purpose of the marriage relationship and to express love. Jesus said, "A man will…be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh." (Mt.19:5-6). Hebrews 13:4 says, "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." I must be careful to love and honor God.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for imparting wisdom concerning human love and its usefulness in marriage life. Jesus, help me to love and obey my spouse as I love you. Lord, help us to remain in love for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 244
2September 2, 2026●(5 events)
September 2, 2026
Come now, let us reason together
_Read: Isaiah 1,2; Psalm 63; 1 Corinthians 8_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 1: 18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.
*Observation:* When a case is registered in a judicial court, both the complainant and respondent will present their arguments through an advocate. Then, based on the arguments and evidence presented before him, the judge will pronounce his verdict. We all know this procedure. In Isaiah 1, the Lord, the Judge of all the earth, invites his people to reason together. Lord condemns the Israelites for their disobedience and calls them to clean themselves from sins. As part of his call to repentance and obedience to God, he now invites them to reason with him and resolve their matter. A course correction opportunity is given to God's people to purify themselves from sins. Sin separates humanity from God and ruins the loving relationship between God and man. But the God of love offers his forgiveness and grace to the fallen man to reconcile and restore the relationship with God.
God's people should consider the blessedness of living under God's protection and the desolateness of living without God. We can reason with God and make decisions based on sound reasoning. God does not call us to blind faith. Instead, he calls us to the reasoned or rational faith that prompts us to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Though our sins are "like scarlet" and "red as crimson," God can wash away the stains of our sins and make us holy to the Lord. God's love for us is unconditional. However, his offer for forgiveness is conditional. We need to confess and repent from our sins and obey the Lord (v.19). There is no sin that God cannot forgive. God has compassion for us as a father has compassion for his children (Ps.103:13). "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 Jn.1:8,9).
*Application:* I should never forget that I am a sinner saved by God's grace. I cannot please God by a multitude of sacrifices and offerings. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise" (Ps.51:17). As I confess my sins and allow God to purify my heart, I should learn what God expects from me (Is.1:17) and obey him. I do not need a mediator to reason with God. Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, is my advocate with God the Father. I can "approach the throne of grace with confidence" (Heb.4:16).
*Prayer:* Gracious and compassionate God, thank you for your love that accepts me and purifies me from all sins. Jesus, help me be obedient to the Word of God and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 245
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 9: 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
*Observation:* An ancient Tamil poet wrote, "Easy to every man the speech that shows the way; Hard thing to shape one's life by the words they say!" For many people, their actions do not match their words. After mentioning his responsibility to preach the Gospel and his humility to win all people for Christ, Paul refers to two familiar scenes of the ancient world—running and boxing—to emphasize his commitment to serving the Lord. In any competition, only those who come first get the reward. However, all who participate in a game or competition would go through strict training. The Christian life, or our race of faith, is different from worldly contests. We Christians would get the eternal, unperishable, and glorious reward from the Lord. All who successfully complete the race will receive their due prize.
1 Cor.9:26 tells us about Paul's steadfast heart and the purpose of his Christian life. Paul does not want to be like someone unprepared and unequipped for a game. He controls and disciplines his body to avoid disqualification from the race. In other words, Paul does not allow his body to rule his life. Instead, he makes every effort to discipline his body. Paul is not talking about punishing his own body and leading an ascetic life. Rather, he expresses his heart's desire to practice what he preached to others.
As Paul writes to Romans, "Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness" (Romans 6:12,13). Let us remember that we are not our own but bought at a price.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should practice what I preach to others. God has called me with a purpose. So I should make every effort to do my best to serve him faithfully. A slave listens to and obeys his master. Likewise, I should train my body to obey and honor Jesus Christ to "receive the crown of glory that will never fade away" (1 Peter 5:4).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for helping me to understand your purpose for my life. Lord, give me your strength to discipline my body to obey you always. Jesus, help me to live as your own and holy for the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 246
4September 4, 2026●(5 events)
September 4, 2026
A principle to use our freedom in Christ
_Read: Isaiah 5,6; Psalm 65; 1 Corinthians 10_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 10: 23 "I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. 24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
*Observation:* Nowadays, we read and speak a lot about individual freedom and rights. Many people do not want to hear anything that questions their lifestyle and attitude towards others. They may use a popular phrase, "My life, my way," and try to justify their actions. Does an unbridled life guarantee joy without limits? We see many people who want to satisfy their selfish desires by exploiting and harming others. They find no permanent happiness in their pursuit of pleasure. Corinthian believers wrote to Paul concerning their rights, "Everything is permissible." The Corinth church had issues related to sexual immorality and eating the food offered to idols. They would have thought their physical actions would not affect their spiritual life. Apostle Paul did not wholly reject the idea of the right to do anything. However, he asks the Corinthian Christians to consider a few things in exercising their rights.
First, Paul told the Corinthian believers that although they have every right to do everything, "not everything is beneficial" (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23). All people would agree that doing something useless is meaningless. Secondly, Paul warned that we should not allow our freedom to use anything to enslave us (1 Cor.6:12). Thirdly, Paul considered that "not everything is constructive." As Christians, we should be cautious in exercising our freedom in Christ. Christ did not liberate us from falling into the same traps that kept us away from God. We must evaluate everything to assess whether it is appropriate or not for our Christian living. As Christians, we should not indulge in things that are not constructive.
Finally, Paul advised the Corinthian believers to "seek the good of others." A self-centered life is against a Christ-centered life. Jesus Christ is our role model to live for the good of others. When we seek the welfare of others, it brings mutual joy. Moreover, we become the salt and light to the world. By considering the good of others, we fulfill the law of Christ (Gal.6:2). A selfish life never gives joy to others. However, a Christian who does good for others contributes to the development of society and spreads kindness and love everywhere.
*Application:* I should not allow anything to enslave me. I am not a slave to worldly customs and my selfish thoughts. I will do things that benefit all. I will spend my time and energy on constructive and edifying things. As Paul says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Gal.2:20).
*Prayer:* My God, thank you for opening my eyes to see how I can use my freedom in Christ to bless others. Jesus, help me to do everything for the glory of God. (v.31). Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 247
5September 5, 2026●(5 events)
September 5, 2026
God is with us
_Read: Isaiah 7,8; Psalm 66; 1 Corinthians 11_
*Scripture:* Isaiah 7: 10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 "Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." 12 But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test." 13 Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
*Observation:* Ahaz was one of the wicked kings of Judah who did not walk in the ways of the Lord but worshipped idols (2 Kings 16:1-4; 2 Chron.28:1-4). When the Syrian king and the Israelite king besieged Jerusalem, God spoke to Ahaz through his prophet Isaiah and gave him an opportunity to repent and return to the Lord (v.9). When the Lord asked Ahaz to ask for a sign, he replied, "I will not put the Lord to the test." It doesn't mean that he did not want to test the Lord. Instead, he was reluctant and not ready to accept God's offer of grace.
Ahaz asked for the Assyrians' help to protect him from the Syrian attack (2 Kings 16:7,8). Though Ahaz was unwilling to ask for a sign, God himself gave him a sign. However, the Assyrian king, even after receiving a large sum of silver and gold from Ahaz, "gave him trouble instead of help" (2 Chron.28:20). However, God was faithful in his words and gave Ahaz a sign of the virgin birth of Immanuel. God wanted to tell Ahaz that he could help him from his enemies. The Hebrew word Immanuel means God is with us.
Some people doubt whether it was a messianic prophecy or applicable only to Isaiah's time. Biblical prophecies often refer to things that would happen soon and would occur much later in the future. Here, we see the prediction about the arrival of the Messiah. This prophecy is fulfilled in the life of Jesus Christ (Mt.1:23, Lk.1:31-35). The wicked Ahaz wanted to please the pagan gods with the hope of receiving their help (2 Chron.28:23-25). But he did not get any support from them. God is always with us, whether we agree with it or not. When we allow God to work in our lives, he saves and delivers us. In difficult times, humans who could help us may abandon or trouble us. Our help "comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth" (Ps.121:2). "The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Ps.46:7,11). He is our ever-present help.
*Application:* The greatest promise of God to me is that Jesus the Immanuel is with me always, "to the very end of the age" (Mt.28:20). Therefore, I fear nothing. I must allow God to work in and through me. God's plans are better than my plans.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for being with me through your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, help me be with you always and live with the conscience that God is with me always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 248
6September 6, 2026●(5 events)
September 6, 2026
In Christ, all are equal
_Read: Isaiah 9,10; Psalm 67; 1 Corinthians 12_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 12: 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul responds to the Corinth church believers' question concerning spiritual gifts. Paul tells something important and applicable even to present-day churches. We see Christians everywhere argue against one another concerning questions like who is superior and who is inferior, who is strong and who is weak, who is useful and who is worthless. In most places, we see and appreciate only the forefront workers; those who work on the backdrop often go unnoticed. For example, those who clean the church never get the same attention as worship leaders or musicians.
Concerning spiritual gifts, Paul says that the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to all believers. However, we should know that there are different kinds of gifts. We should not expect and compel everyone to have the same gift. It is the Holy Spirit who determines which gift a believer should/would receive. We all are members of the body of Christ. So, each of us has a role or work in the church. We cannot/should not say to anyone, "I don't need you." Paul says weaker parts are indispensable in the body of Christ. Then Paul urges the Corinth believers to give "special honor," and "special modesty" to those who are weak. Paul suggests that the Corinth believers give honor and pay special attention to those who need the care and concerns of others. They should not be neglected at any cost.
While explaining the equality and importance of all parts of one body, Paul reminds the believers about the interdependence of each body part and its interconnectedness. No Christian could function alone. We may not realize the contribution of a body part to our well-being until it ceases to work. It is our responsibility to give the utmost care to every person in the Church. Every Christian and their service to the Church is vital. There should be no discrimination, inequalities, or divisions in God's family, i.e., the Church, the body of Christ. Partaking in the joy and suffering of other Christians is a part of true Christian living.
*Application:* The gift of the Holy Spirit is given to me for the common good. I should not boast about my spiritual gift and should never consider myself superior to others. I should use my spiritual gift for the good of others, not to gratify my desire and pride. Instead of humiliating Christians who consider themselves weak and worthless, I will/should give them special honor and special treatment to make sure that they understand they are essential to the body of Christ, just like others.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the spiritual gift that you have given to me. Jesus, help me to use the gift of the Holy Spirit to testify about your greatness and to help and honor others in Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 249
7September 7, 2026●(5 events)
September 7, 2026
LOVE is everything
_Read: Isaiah 11,12; Psalm 68; 1 Corinthians 13_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
*Observation:* For many Christians, 1 Corinthians 13 is one of their favorite chapters in the Bible. All who read it would readily accept the greatness of love described in 1 Cor.13. However, when asked about practicing such love, people would tell about their difficulties or excuses. They may say, apart from God, who could love like that? Some may say that we are trying to practice love; they may hope to achieve such love someday. In the first three verses of 1 Cor.13, Paul tells us that love is greater than spiritual gifts. Verses 4-7 tell about 15 features of love. In verses 8-13, Paul explains the enduring nature of love.
The word love has a range of meanings depending on the context. There are at least six Greek words for love: Agape, Eros, Philia, Storge, Philautia, and Xenia. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul uses "Agape," which refers to unconditional or selfless love. Many people think love is a concept, a philosophy, or a feeling. Interestingly, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes the actions of love. The Bible encourages, "Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." (1 Jn.3:18; 4:16). The Bible testifies that God loves us. As we read in Romans 5:8, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus Christ called us to remain in his love and commanded us, "Love each other as I have loved you" (Jn.15:9, 12).
Lack of love is one of the fundamental reasons that causes many problems in Christian families, churches, fellowships, workplaces, and organizations. It is our love that helps others. If there is no love in us, we will not use our spiritual gifts to benefit others. Love is the foundation of our Christian faith and hope. Loving one another is an oft-repeated command of Jesus and the New Testament teaching. Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (Jn.13:35).
*Application:* I have learned what is love and what is not love. First of all, love is not merely talking about it. It is about what I do in my actions. As I understand the greatness of love and its permanence, I must/will do my best to practice love in my life. I should love others just as Jesus loved me.
*Prayer:* Loving God, thank you for your love for me. Jesus, help me to remain in love and love others every day. Lord, help me love you with all my heart, mind, soul, and all my strength. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 250
8September 8, 2026●(5 events)
September 8, 2026
Speak the words that edify others
_Read: Isaiah 13,14; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 14_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 14: 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
*Observation:* Recently, a reputed Anglican scholar shared his experience of speaking in tongues when he talked to his cousin concerning his worries about his work. It soon went viral all over the world; his testimony encouraged many Christians. A well-known Indian evangelist once shared his experience that he would spend a few days praying in tongues before every preaching. Speaking in tongues helps a Christian to edify himself. There is no valid reason to believe that the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased with the Early Church. The Bible or Paul never talks against speaking in tongues(v.39). However, he advised that it is better not to practice the spiritual gift of speaking tongues if there is no interpreter when speaking publicly in the Church (v.28). We need to understand why Paul said such a thing.
Paul explicitly said, "I speak in tongues more than all of you." So, Paul was certainly not saying anything against using the gift of speaking in a tongue. In 1 Corinthians 12, he said that a spiritual gift "is given for the common good." In his response to the Corinth believers' question concerning spiritual gifts, Paul encouraged them, "Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church." (v.12). In the Church, every Christian should be concerned about edifying one another. To that end, "five intelligible words" are better than the thousands of words we speak in tongues. In ancient Greece, 10000 (Myriad) was the largest number. In their eagerness for spiritual gifts, Corinth believers must have thought like children. Paul asked the Corinthians, "Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children."
In the pursuit of spiritual gifts, Christians should stop childish thinking and practices. At the same time, we should be like children without any evil desires or motives. Jesus said, "Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Mt.10:16). As Paul said to the Roman Church, we need to "be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil" (Rom.16:19). Above all, it is love that helps us use our spiritual gifts to edify and build others. Let us remember it and be careful to "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit."
*Application:* God has given me spiritual gifts. I should be careful in using them for his glory. Instead of satisfying myself by speaking so many words in the Church, I should/will be sensitive to the needs of others and speak the words that build and edify them.
*Prayer:* Almighty God, thank you for all the spiritual gifts you have given to every Christian. Jesus, help me to be aware of my spiritual gift(s) and use it appropriately to edify others in the Church. Holy Spirit, give me your strength to be/become a mature Christian. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 251
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
*Observation:* In Ancient society, people predominantly used oral tradition to pass on their knowledge and teachings from one generation to the next. Memorization of information was fundamental for the transmission of knowledge. Here, Paul refers to an authentic oral tradition of the Gospel that he shared with the Corinthian believers. In Galatians 1:11-12, Paul says that "by revelation," he received the Gospel directly from Jesus Christ. In other words, the Gospel that Paul preached was not his Gospel; Paul did not invent or make it up. Paul faithfully preached what he received. Paul was determined to preach the crucified Christ to the Corinth Church (1 Cor.1:23, 2:2).
All people die; people may ask what is unique in Christ's death. Jesus's death was not an ordinary one. He died for our sins, according to the Scriptures. We see the fulfillment of many Old Testament messianic prophecies in Christ's death. Through his death, Jesus made propitiation for our sins. We see the demonstration of God's love in Jesus's death (Rom.5:8). Apostle Peter says, "He (Jesus) himself bore our sins" in his body on the Cross so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness" (1 Pet. 2:24).
The burial of Jesus signifies that his death was not fake. The Gospel of Mark says, "Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead" (Mk.15:44). There was no doubt about his death. There is no basis for the swoon theory that says Jesus was unconscious or in a deep coma. Again, according to the Scriptures, Jesus was raised on the third day. Jesus' resurrection was the central message of the apostolic teaching. Christ's resurrection is not a fable. The New Testament gives us a list of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and presents eyewitnesses' testimonies. Paul mentions six of Christ's appearances in this chapter. Jesus' resurrection is a historical fact. As one scholar says, "Belief in the Resurrection is not an appendage to the Christian faith; it is the Christian faith." We Christians must understand the message of the Gospel to explain it clearly to those who ask and question us. We are responsible for passing on the Gospel to others who have not yet heard it.
*Application:* I believe Jesus died for my sins. He was buried and raised on the third day. Jesus is alive even today. God has given me new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Pet.1:3). "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes" (Rom.1:16).
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the great love that you have shown for me. Jesus, thank you for the Cross in which you bore my sins and made atonement with God. Lord, you are alive and unchanging even today. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to spread the light of the Gospel that displays the glory of Christ. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 252
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
*Observation:* In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul first explains that Christ's resurrection is fundamental to the Christian faith. Secondly, he speaks about the resurrection of the dead. Thirdly, Paul talks about the resurrection of the body. The resurrection of Christ gives us hope for our future and assurance of our eternal life. In Christ, we have hope for eternity and resurrection. The Bible calls it "the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). In verse 57, Paul reminds us that we are victorious through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ's victory is ours.
Paul's connective word "therefore" refers to all the preceding 57 verses that he wrote about the resurrection matter. With that in mind, he encourages believers to stand firm and be bold. Whatever we do for the Lord never goes in vain. The Lord blesses our efforts and desires that we want to do for him and makes us victorious. We need to be faithful in doing what the Lord entrusted us. We may sometimes be disappointed when we see no apparent result of our work. However, we should not lose our enthusiasm to work for the Lord or make any half-hearted efforts. We must pay our undivided attention to the work of the Lord. When Christ comes, we will receive our reward, the crown that God has prepared for us. God is not unjust to forget our work and love. Notice: Paul says about the certainty of our resurrection. However, he does not mention when it would happen. Instead, Paul prepares the mind of believers for their resurrection (v.51,52). Further, he encourages them to be determined in their work for the Lord. Therefore, we should give our 100% effort and energy to the work of the Lord.
*Application:* My life does not end with the earth. I will inherit the Kingdom of God and will live with God in eternity. Jesus Christ gives me victory over the law of sin and death. My work and efforts for the Kingdom of God are not useless. I will do everything for the glory of the Lord.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for the hope of glory you have given to me. Lord Jesus, help me give my best to God's work and Kingdom. Holy Spirit, help me be steadfast and strong in the Lord and in the work I do for him. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 253
11September 11, 2026●(5 events)
September 11, 2026
Secrets for a Successful Christian Life
_Read: Isaiah 19,20; Psalm 72; 1 Corinthians 16_
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 16: 13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
*Observation:* In the first epistle to Corinthians, Apostle Paul responds to some of the problems in the Corinth church and questions of the believers. There were issues like divisions, lawsuits, sexual immoralities, sinful temptations, and misunderstandings about the spiritual gifts and resurrection among the Corinthian believers. Paul answers all of them in the preceding chapters. Here, in his concluding remarks, Paul reminds and commands five things to the Corinth believers. The Corinthian believers need to keep the main thing the main.
In verse 13, we see a tetrad (i.e., a set of four things) for victorious Christian living. These four commands appear like military commands. The first command, "Be on your guard," reminds us that we should be careful to oblige our responsibility as Christians regardless of what we face or what happens to us. We need to stand firm in the faith because it helps us resist the devil who "prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Pet.5:8,9). Satan can do nothing against a believer who remains firm in his/her faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul admonished the Corinth believers to think like adults, not like children (1 Cor.3:1; 13:11; 14:20). We should be courageous as mature Christians. We should be careful not to fall (1 Cor.10:12). The strength we need comes from the Lord Jesus. We always need to "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Eph.6:10). These four things are interconnected, and each of them is vital for a victorious Christian life. Finally, in verse 14, Paul reminds, "do everything in love." In chapter 13, we read Paul's description of the greatness and importance of love in Christian life. Loving God and loving one another are not just great commandments but the way of life for every Christian who wants to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
*Application:* As a Christian, I should not live according to worldly customs and practices. I should not "conform to the pattern of this world" (Rom.12:2). I need to be watchful of my walk with the Lord and remain firm in my faith. Jesus already overcame the world. Jesus gives me the strength to be courageous and strong to stand against the enemy, the devil. I am not "under the law, but under grace" (Rom.6:14). Sin and Satan have no power over me. God's love enables me to do everything in love.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for teaching me the secrets to being a faithful Christian. Lord, help me live "like a good soldier of Christ Jesus" today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 254
12September 12, 2026●(5 events)
September 12, 2026
Earthly and eternal blessing
_Read: Isaiah 21,22; Psalm 73; 2 Corinthians 1_
*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Observation:* Until the psalmist started to see the wicked from God's perspective, he was jealous of the prosperity of the wicked and could not see things clearly. Soon after the psalmist entered the sanctuary, he understood his thoughts were senseless and vague. Seeing the world from the Lord's perspective helps us to understand everything. Although the psalmist almost slipped, God did not abandon him. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we are faithless, he (God) remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Tim.2:13). God's counsel helps us overcome our mental struggles and will lead us to see our real blessings.
The psalmist was able to see that there is no blessing or prosperity greater than our God. The psalmist must have understood the perishability of worldly blessings. It made him confess that God is more desirable than anything, both in heaven and on earth. In Christ, we have blessings for the present and hope for the future. God is our strength and hope. Meanwhile, the wicked and unfaithful have no such expectations or future in Christ. God is our eternal hope and everlasting blessing. God is sufficient for us. We must keep our eyes on God instead of looking at others' earthly blessings.
*Application:* Jesus assures me of my life on earth and offers hope for the future to live with God in heaven. As long as I see things from my perspective through my selfish lens, I will not see God. I should focus on knowing Jesus Christ and be ready to lose anything for him (Phil.3:8). For that to happen, I should first seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Then, I will have everything I need.
*Prayer:* Father God, my eyes are on you. Lord, you are my strength, blessing, and portion in life. Jesus, help me to humble myself and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 255
13September 13, 2026
14September 14, 2026
15September 15, 2026
16September 16, 2026
17September 17, 2026
18September 18, 2026
19September 19, 2026
20September 20, 2026
21September 21, 2026
22September 22, 2026
23September 23, 2026
24September 24, 2026
25September 25, 2026
26September 26, 2026
27September 27, 2026
28September 28, 2026
29September 29, 2026
30September 30, 2026
1October 1, 2026
2October 2, 2026
3October 3, 2026
4October 4, 2026
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*Scripture:* Psalm 73: 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
*Scripture:* Psalm 61: 1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
*Scripture:* Song of Songs 8: 6 Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. 7 Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
*Scripture:* Isaiah 1: 18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 9: 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 10: 23 "I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. 24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
*Scripture:* Isaiah 7: 10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 "Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." 12 But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test." 13 Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 12: 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
*Observation:* Recently, a reputed Anglican scholar shared his experience of speaking in tongues when he talked to his cousin concerning his worries about his work. It soon went viral all over the world; his testimony encouraged many Christians. A well-known Indian evangelist once shared his experience that he would spend a few days praying in tongues before every preaching. Speaking in tongues helps a Christian to edify himself. There is no valid reason to believe that the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased with the Early Church. The Bible or Paul never talks against speaking in tongues(v.39). However, he advised that it is better not to practice the spiritual gift of speaking tongues if there is no interpreter when speaking publicly in the Church (v.28). We need to understand why Paul said such a thing.
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
*Scripture:* 1 Corinthians 15: 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
*Observation:* In the first epistle to Corinthians, Apostle Paul responds to some of the problems in the Corinth church and questions of the believers. There were issues like divisions, lawsuits, sexual immoralities, sinful temptations, and misunderstandings about the spiritual gifts and resurrection among the Corinthian believers. Paul answers all of them in the preceding chapters. Here, in his concluding remarks, Paul reminds and commands five things to the Corinth believers. The Corinthian believers need to keep the main thing the main.
