“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.
Quiet Time Meditations in August 2026
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27July 27, 2026●(1 event)
July 27, 2026
Did you receive the Holy Spirit?
Read: Nehemiah 7,8; Psalm 26; Acts 19
Scripture: Acts 19: 1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”“John’s baptism,” they replied.
Observation: In Acts 19:2-3, we see two surprising and significant questions: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit,” and “What baptism did you receive?” It is surprising because these questions were posed to “some disciples.” It is significant because receiving the Holy Spirit and Baptism are essential in the Christian life. If somebody asks us to answer these two questions, our answers will reflect the beliefs of the Church we attend or our Church’s denomination. However, looking at the scriptural context may help us to understand why Paul asked these questions. As the quoted verses suggest, they knew John’s baptism and had no idea about the Holy Spirit. It seems they did not know about the Gospel of Jesus but had some idea about Jesus. They were disciples who knew only the baptism of John, like Apollos (Acts 18:24-26). They were not aware of the personhood of the Holy Spirit.
Then, Paul asked them about Baptism. Many Christians misunderstand or become confused when they read about the baptism in Jesus’ name. We may wonder whether the apostles’ practice of baptism was against the teaching of Jesus (Mt.28:19). Non-trinitarians claim that even the apostles gave baptism in Jesus’ name to prove their point. However, we must know that there are logical problems in believing such claims. In the book of Acts, “baptized in Jesus’ name” does not refer to a formula of baptism. Instead, it indicates the open confession of faith of the persons who were baptized.
In those days, Jews were familiar with different baptisms: John’s baptism, Gentiles’ baptism to accept Judaism, and baptism for the dead (1 Cor.15) are some of them. Therefore, when a person is baptized in Jesus’ name, it differentiates him/her from other baptisms and expresses their faith in Jesus Christ. They confirmed their commitment to follow Jesus Christ and his teachings through baptism. Significantly, they received the Holy Spirit after their baptism. Our baptism is a public expression of our faith and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. When we receive the Holy Spirit, he gives us the strength to follow Jesus and practice our faith in him. Jesus promised us about the Holy Spirit (John 14:16,17; 15:26; 16:13). We need Holy Spirit in our daily walk with Christ to lead a godly life. The question is, have we received the Holy Spirit? Let us not limit the power and works of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Application: Every day, I need to be filled with the Holy Spirit to walk in the truth of God. He reminds me of Jesus’ teachings and empowers me to live as a witness of God. God the Father has generously poured the Holy Spirit on me through Jesus Christ. To live a life that pleases God, I must walk by the Spirit.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, thank you for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Help me always to be filled with the Holy Spirit and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 208
Scripture: Psalm 27: 4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Observation: Our life needs are dynamic and keep changing every day. Something that we deem as precious today may become a nuisance tomorrow. Many things we craved to have in our lives may become undesirable once we received or achieved them. So we may not be able to give a precise answer concerning the one thing we want to ask the Lord. Our responses vary depending on our life circumstances. But David, in Psalm 27, confidently expresses the one thing he wants to ask the Lord. We do not know when David wrote Psalm 27. Verses 2, 3, 10, and 12 allude to some of the challenges David went through in his life. Regardless of the place, whether in the palace or the wilderness, we can be sure that David would ask the same thing from the Lord. His life testifies that he sought nothing else other than God (1 Sam. 13:14).
David wanted to live in the house of the Lord throughout his life. He was regular to seek God. David desired “to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,” not his enemies or opposing situations. David knew that the Lord is his light; the Lord’s light will remove all the darkness in his life. He found that the presence of the Lord or being in his presence and protection is a safer place from his enemies. Dwelling in the house of the Lord is indeed a great blessing (Ps.23:6; 26:8; 91:1). Assuredly, David would have had various responsibilities and works in his life. However, his top priority or heart’s longing was to be with the Lord and seek him.
Let us remember what Jesus told Martha: “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10: 41, 42). Our worries bring no benefits or changes. But God can change anything. When we seek God, he gives us the confidence to face our problems and enemies. Do we still ask for worldly things and babble many things in our prayers? (Mt.6:5-8). Let us seek God, God alone, in our lives.
Application: Whether facing challenging situations or living in abundance, I should remember that my ultimate need is God. No worldly things can give me the joy, peace, and security I enjoy in the Lord; God dispels my fears and fills my life with his light. God is my first need; I should seek the Lord regularly. I must seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness. My eyes should be on the Lord and the splendor of his holiness, not on my enemies.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the light you have given in my life. You deliver me from my enemies. My God, help me keep my eyes focused on you and seek you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 209
Scripture: Psalm 28: 9 Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Observation: Psalm 28 starts with David’s desperate prayer for deliverance from the deadly dangers that he faced in his life. David asks for God’s help and pleads for his mercy to save his life (v.1,2). However, in verses 6-7, David expresses his joy and confidence in God since God answered his “cry for mercy.” His cry for help turned out to be a cry of praise. When he explains why God responded to his prayers, he says, “My heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” A heart that trusts God rejoices and is filled with songs of praise. After receiving answers to his prayers, David now prays for his people (v.9). He asks God to be the shepherd of his people to save and bless them. God saves his people whenever they are in distress.
God is the savior and shepherd of his people (Ps.23; Is.40:11; 63:9). God protects and guides his people and meets all their needs. God leads his people like a shepherd leads his flock (Ps.23; 78:52; 80:1). God’s blessings are upon his people; He blesses their lives every day. When deadly diseases or dangers surround us, we can trust God. He is our strength and shield. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, provides deliverance from all the deadly dangers and blesses us (Jn.10:10,11).
Application: The Bible says, “Blessed is the people whose God is the Lord” (Ps.144:15). When I trust God, he saves and blesses me. “The Lord is my strength and my shield” (Ps.28:7). Since God is with me, “I will fear no evil” (Ps.23:4). He saves me “from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence”; He answers my prayer and blesses me with every blessing and eternal life (Ps.91:3,15, 16). I will trust God always.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your salvation and blessings. Jesus, I am a sheep in your flock; I want to follow you diligently. Carry me in your hands and protect me from all dangers today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 210
Scripture: Psalm 29:3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.
Observation: Canaanites believed Baal was a powerful god; they considered him the power present in the thunderstorm. In contrast, Psalm 29 illustrates that the power and glory of the Lord are visible and audible on this earth and invites the people to worship God. “The voice of the LORD” occurs seven times in Ps.29. When God spoke to Moses, people saw thunder and lightning and were afraid (Exo.19:16-19). Likewise, the Lord’s voice is often identified with thunder (1 Sam. 7:10; Job 37:4-5; Psalm 18:13; Isa. 30:30-31; Jn12:29). The voice of the Lord is all-powerful and has creative power (Gen.1, Ps.33:6-9). The Bible says, “By God’s word the heavens came into being, and the earth was formed out of the water and by water” (2 Peter 3:5). Although the voice of the LORD reveals the power and glory of God, its primary intention is to communicate and speak with humans and to invite them to worship the creator.
Does God speak today? In the past, God spoke through his prophets and in various ways. But now, he speaks through Jesus Christ. (Heb.1:1,2) We must listen to Jesus’ words (Mt. 17:5; Mk 9:7; Luke 9:35; Heb.12:25). Jesus is the Word of God (Jn.1:1; Rev.19:16). When we read the Bible, the Word of God and commune with him, Jesus speaks to us. In fact, he is willing to talk with us more than we desire to speak with him. Jesus often said, “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The Bible warns, “If only you would hear his voice, Do not harden your hearts” (Ps.95:8). Let us hear God’s words and put them into practice.
Application: When God comes to speak with me, he asks, “Where are you?” (Gen.3:9). I should not/cannot hide anything from God. I am “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Rom.6:11). Every creation, even the winds and the waves, obeys the words of Jesus. I must read and listen to the loving words of Jesus. He is the LORD.
Prayer: LORD, you are the living God. My God, thank you for your love. Your words are active and alive. Jesus, your words are full of the Spirit and life. Holy Spirit, help me to remember them everyday and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 211
Scripture: Esther 4: 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Observation: Haman’s wrath against all the Jews appears unreasonable and raises questions concerning the motives behind his evil scheme. Further, we do not know why Mordecai refused to respect Haman, for there was nothing against it in the Law of Moses. Mordecai and Haman’s ancestral names remind us of the long-standing tension between the Amalekites and the Israelites (Exodus 17:14-16; 1 Sam.15:7-9). Haman, the Agagite, perhaps wanted to take revenge against Mordecai, the Benjamite. Haman successfully persuaded the king in favor of his plan to annihilate all the Jews from the empire. Haman might have thought that nobody could stop his plan, which was against God’s redemption plan. Haman was utterly unaware of Esther’s Jewish origin and her connection with Mordecai.
At this time, Mordecai sent a message to Queen Esther to remind her responsibility to save her people and plead with the king for their lives. He said Esther’s royal position might be a divine providence to protect her people. Mordecai was sure that Esther should intervene for the Jews. Then Esther asked Mordecai to call all the Jews who lived in Susa to fast for her for three days. She also fasted with them with a determination, “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). Before Esther went to the king to intercede for her people, she joined with people’s sorrow in fasting and prayer (Esther 4:3). Esther must have understood her role to save her people during such a time as this. Joseph also had a similar experience (Gen. 45:7). It is not coincidental that we are in a particular place or position. When a crisis comes, with prayer and fasting, we should do all we can do. Then we can be sure that God will do the rest and will be glorified through us. God, who averted the evil plans of Haman, is faithful to protect his people from all the dangers and diseases even today. Trusting God, we need to intercede for our people and start doing something for them. We should not remain silent.
Application: God has a call and purpose for my life. Even before a threat comes against God’s people or me, God knows them and prepares his provision accordingly well in advance. I can trust God during challenging times and pray for his help. When I act on faith in God’s power, He does great things.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for reminding me to pray for people in dire need and suffering. Lord, help me to intercede for them in prayer and fasting and remain in you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 212
Scripture: Psalm 31: 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you.
Observation: When a person's life is full of problems, people usually stay away from such persons and offer them no help to come out of their distressing situation. But, one's wealth and position attract many friends. David faced many enemies, problems, and slanders throughout his life and was often isolated/abandoned by friends. His fears were genuine. Yet, David put his trust and hope in God; he surrendered his life in God's hand. When David looked at God instead of giving space to his fears, he was able to see what the Lord had prepared and stored for him. They are indescribable!
God never wrings his hands, wondering how to deal with the troublesome situation as we do in such times. He is the all-knowing God; he has the solution for man's every problem. He has already stored all the good things for his beloved children. So when we face a problem or hostility, we can focus on God, who has answers for all our problems. God reveals his goodness when we require it; He bestows his abundant good things upon us to make others understand his grace. However, we should know that God does not give all the goodness he stored for us all at once. He showers his blessings on our lives and saves us from our depression and distress according to our needs. "As it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"—the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit" (1 Cor.2:9-10). We need not worry about anything else when we trust God.
Application: When I trust God and take refuge in him, I can be sure of his goodness, which enables me to face and overcome my problems. People may go away from me and consider me an unwanted person. However, God never does it. His grace saves me and makes me strong in the Lord. Whenever I face a problem or need, I can be confident about God's providence to handle/overcome the situation. He has already stored up his goodness for me. I need not fear about my life and future.
Prayer: How great you are, my God! There is no one like you. Lord Jesus, help me to look to you for help and wisdom. Holy Spirit, open my eyes to see what God has stored for me; help me be strong in the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 213
Scripture: Job 1: 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." 9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied.
Observation: The book of Job is the oldest book of the Old Testament. Though there is no detail of authorship of the book of Job, scholars consider it might have been written during or before the time of Abraham. Many Christians are afraid of or reluctant to read the book of Job due to the sudden and disastrous events that happened to Job. (I encourage everyone to read the book of Job to understand biblical wisdom on various issues we face today). Although Job lived an exemplary godly life that every human wants to have, it is a question for many people, why did God allow Satan to inflict harm in Job's life? In Job 1:8, we see how God applauds Job. However, Satan, who accuses godly people before our God day and night, blamed Job. He charged that Job fears God for selfish reasons. Satan either entices people to sin against God or blames them that their faith in God for having selfish motives. However, Job's faith in God was unwavering even after he lost everything he had. It proved that Satan's cynical accusation was false and that Job's righteousness was genuine.
The life of Job reminds us that we can trust God even when the worst of the worst things happen to us. It doesn't mean that we all could experience such a catastrophe in our lives. Instead, It implies that everything, even Satan, is under God's control. We may not immediately know why God allows harmful things in our lives. We will know God's purposes when we come out of such difficult times. Even when tempted to abandon his integrity and curse God, "Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing." Thousands of years ago, if Job could remain firm in his faith in God, how much stronger can we be for the Lord? As Paul says, "Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Rom.8:18). No human helped Job during his sufferings. But, we have Jesus who is able to help us in our sufferings and temptations (Heb.2:18). God's wisdom will be revealed through our lives in HIS time.
Application: I should not seek God for selfish reasons or material blessings. Instead, my relationship with God should be based on Love. I loved him because he first loved me (1 Jn.4:19). Whatever happens to me, I will not renounce my faith and trust in God. Standing firm in the faith, I will resist the devil (1 Peter 5:9). "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial" (James 1:12). God is the greatest blessing for those who love him.
Prayer: Father God, I praise you for all things are under your control. I am under your protection. Satan cannot touch me, without your permission. Lord Jesus, give me your strength to remain strong in my faith when facing trials and temptations. Help me to stand against the devil's schemes and use the sword of the Spirit correctly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 214
Scripture: Psalm 33: 18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, 19 to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.
Observation: History tells us a lot about the fall of many great emperors, kingdoms, and leaders, who had vast armies, wealth, and people strength. They all would have thought that nobody could win or shake their power during the peak of their lives and fame. Their trust in their prowess, army, and wealth did not help them in the disasters of their lives. Many of them died without any help. As Ps.33:16-17 says, worldly strengths and power are "vain." They cannot help us in times of trouble. "But the eyes of the Lord" are on god-fearing people to give them the strength for deliverance and providence for their needs. God's unfailing love is the greatest hope for us during times of need.
During widespread disasters and famine, people may look here and there to find hope or help when they fight for their lives and crave food. When we who believe in God find ourselves in such situations, we can put our hope in God's unfailing love. As we read here, HIS eyes are on us. God knows our needs and struggles; He will never forsake us. For his love is unchanging and unfailing love. Our Lord Jesus overcame death and is alive even today. The Bible encourages us to put our hope in God during difficult times. Because the Lord's eyes are on us, he will answer our prayers and guide us to cross the dark valleys of our lives (Ps.34:15, 1 Pet.3:12). Remember: God never promised that we would have a life free from worries and wants. But, he has promised his help to deliver us from death and provide what we need during our testing times. So, we can put our hope in him. "We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield" (Ps.33:20).
Application: The Lord sees me and knows my needs. My human strength and worldly wealth cannot always save me from troubles. When I trust my earthly things, it turns my attention away from the LORD and causes more problems. On the other hand, when I fear God and put my trust in his unfailing love, I find answers to my prayers and a solution to my pressing needs. My eyes and hope should always be on Jesus.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your loving eyes that see me. I praise you for knowing my every need and how to deal with it. God, help me to put my trust and faith in you today and always.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 215
Scripture: Acts 24: 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Observation: Many people admire the teachings of Jesus Christ and the simplicity of the Gospel. However, many (including many Christians) want to hear only messages that soothe their ears and are pleasant to their hearts. People generally do not like to hear a message that confronts them. Here, we see a Roman governor Felix, “who was well acquainted with the Way” (Christians were first called people belonging to the Way), met Paul with his Jewish wife to hear more about the faith in Christ Jesus. In those days, when rulers met philosophers and great teachers in private to clarify their doubts, they would try to please the rulers to gain their confidence or rewards. They usually would not say anything against the rulers, fearing dire consequences. However, Paul was fearless in preaching the Gospel and talked about the immediate need of Felix and Drusilla—the knowledge about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. We do not know why Paul particularly emphasized these three things. Nevertheless, history affirms that Paul’s choice of topics was right.
Notice Felix’s response to the message: He was afraid and tried to move Paul away from him. Paul’s talk must have touched his conscience and made him aware of the sins he committed. With no interest in hearing further and accepting the message, he said, “That’s enough.” When people hear something they don’t like, they immediately respond, “That’s enough.” Felix was unwilling to accept the message Paul preached to him but hoped to receive a bribe from Paul and talk with him “frequently,” intending to obtain money (illegally). Before he found a convenient time to hear the Gospel from Paul in the next two years, he was removed from his office.
People who postpone their decision to accept Christ do not find a convenient time again to confess Jesus is the Lord. Paul could have tried to please the governor and arranged a sum of money, thinking he could preach to more people if he came out of prison. Paul chose to be faithful to Jesus, who called him to preach the Gospel. It gave him more opportunities to speak about the Lord in royal places. Felix was not ready to accept the Way of Jesus and said excuses. Are we prepared to be faithful to live for Christ and preach the Gospel? We must be prepared to meet our God.
Application: Messages related to righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come are relevant to all ages. People, especially rulers, think that whatever they do is right and never want to be questioned by others. I should not be like them. My “righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Is.64:6). I am justified by faith in Jesus Christ. Christ is my righteousness. Self-control is a part of the fruit of the Spirit. I belong to Christ Jesus; I have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal.5:22-24). I am accountable to God. My life does not end in this world. Christ called me for eternal life. I must be ready to stand before God.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the Gospel that sets people free from the bondage of sin. Lord, give me the heart to accept and follow your word without any delay. Help me to bear the fruit of the Spirit in my life every day. Strengthen me to preach the Gospel without fear and prepare people to meet you, oh my God! Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 216
Scripture: Psalm 35: 28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.
Observation: Psalm 35 is one of the “Imprecatory Psalms” in the book of Psalms. In Psalm 35, David pleads to God to defend him from those who attack him without reason. The verses in the psalm suggest that David may have written this psalm when Saul chased to kill him. David tells about the types of attacks that he faced from those who fought against him: physical attack (v.1-10), personal attack (v.11-18), and verbal attack (false accusations, v.19-29). These unmotivated attacks caused an illness (v.13) and distress (v.26) in David’s life. Instead of retaliating against the malicious attacks, David invokes God to give due justice to the attackers. At the end of each of his appeals, David vows to praise God (v.9,18, 28). Each time David pleads to God concerning his internal and external struggles and troubles, he ends with a strong emphasis on praising God. Instead of giving answers to the false accusations against him, David wants to speak of God’s righteousness and praise him all day long.
What will be our reaction or response if we are mistreated or falsely accused without cause? We may want to prove our innocence or give a detailed explanation to prove the accusations are wrong. However, it is difficult for us to handle all the issues and respond to each accusation we face in our lives. We need to let God fight our battles and defend us instead of trying to do something to prove or defend ourselves. Like David, we need to focus on God and praise him in times of our needs, problems, and worries. When we praise and worship God, we understand that our God is bigger than any of the problems we may face in our lives.
Application: When I face false accusations and unmotivated attacks that affect my life, I must go to God and ask him to defend me and do justice. I should not waste my energy giving explanations or taking revenge against those who are against me. Instead of reacting to the problems I face, I need to seek God and his righteousness. Speaking and thinking about all the false accusations or attacks make me tired. But, praising God refreshes my soul and gives me the strength to stand firm for the Lord. I can praise the Lord all day long.
Prayer: Father God, you are my savior; you are the defender of the weak. I praise you for all the wonderful works you have done in my life so far. Lord Jesus, when others hate me without reason, help me to remember you and your words. My God, you bless my enemies. Give your Spirit to praise you all day long. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 217
Pray, preach, and persuade people to accept Christ
Read: Job 9,10; Psalm 36; Acts 26
Scripture: Acts 26: 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
Observation: In Acts 26, when Paul shared his testimony and ministry call and explained Jesus was the Messiah, he received two different responses—the Roman Governor Festus thought Paul became insane. King Agrippa thought Paul was trying to persuade him to accept Christ. Unlike the previous governor Felix who knew about the Christian faith, Festus did not know much about the belief in Jesus Christ. So, Paul told him about the historicity of Jesus’ death and resurrection. On the other hand, as a Jew, King Agrippa would have been aware of the messianic prophecies and the events related to the life of Jesus. Paul’s question to Agrippa was significant. He did not ask Agrippa whether he believed Jesus or not. Paul asked a question related to fundamental Jewish belief in prophets. Agrippa was aware that it was not simply a yes or no question. If he said yes, he should have believed in Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies. Agrippa would have faced the Jews’ wrath if he had said no. So Agrippa avoided such a situation by saying he could not become a Christian “in such a short time.” It doesn’t mean that Agrippa wanted to become a Christian, but he needed more time, or it was merely an excuse. Of course, nobody would accept Jesus Christ just because someone preached or persuaded them about believing Christ.
Paul’s response to King Agrippa tells us a lot about Paul’s passion for souls. Further, it reminds us to pray for all people to become followers of Christ, preach the Gospel, and persuade them to accept Jesus Christ. When we do this, we can confidently say that our faith in Jesus Christ is based on historical events, not fables.
Application: My faith in Jesus Christ is not built on “cleverly devised stories.” Jesus’ life, death, and crucifixion are well-attested events in history. I should use my time to help others to know about Jesus. I need to pray for all the people who have not yet heard of Jesus. Then, I should preach the Gospel and invite or persuade them to accept Lord Jesus. I cannot/should not compel anyone to become Christian. My life should be a testimony for others to know Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to save me. I pray for “all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Jesus, strengthen me to do my part in sharing the Gospel with all people. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 218
Scripture: Acts 27: 10 “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” 11 But the Centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
Observation: Acts 27 gives us a detailed account of the struggles of all those on the ship when they faced severe storms as Paul was taken to Rome. The journey was difficult right from the start. It was not an ideal time for long trips. So, from his extensive voyage experience and godly wisdom, Paul advised Julius and his men against their travel plans. However, he did not listen to Paul. Instead, he accepted the ship’s owner’s and the pilot’s suggestion to move from Fair Havens to Phoenix to stay safe during the winter. They faced severe winds soon after they departed to Phoenix, a harbor port 40 miles away from Fair Haven. Afterward, until they reached the island of Malta, the ship was not in their control; the wind drove them. For fourteen days, they did not eat properly. To save their lives and the ship during the terrible storm, they were to throw the cargo overboard, many tools, and even the grains. They “gave up all hope of being saved” (v.20). When the second time Paul spoke, They all listened to Paul’s words and were encouraged. They could have avoided all the tragedies if they had listened to him earlier(v.21). At last, all of their lives were spared from the hopeless situation owing to Paul’s prayer. (v.24).
The Centurion may have thought that the pilot and the Ship’s owner would know more about the wind movements and voyage than Paul. Likewise, many believe that worldly experts or experienced ones can navigate any storm and handle every situation. They fail to see that God still has control over every windy and dangerous situation. However, God saves them when they acknowledge His sovereignty and follow his instructions. Modern technologies and scientists cannot know the future. But God knows everything. He can speak to us even when we pass through severe storms in our lives and can offer us his guidance. We must listen to God and obey his instructions. The sooner we follow God, the more we can avoid many struggles in our lives and save ourselves from disasters.
Application: God, who controls the waves and the winds, sometimes may allow me to sail through severe storms of life. At such times, I must continue my prayer life with God and should pray for all people. I should be grateful to God for his provision to meet my needs during such times. When I listen to God’s word, he calms my heart and gives me His peace. There is a dawn after every darkness. I can trust God; His grace will lead me home.
Prayer: Sovereign God, thank you for your guidance and care for my life. Lord, help me to listen to your words and obey your will in all situations. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 219
Scripture: Acts 28: 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!
Observation: After reading all the difficulties of the voyage to Rome when Paul was taken to Rome, we expect that the Lord would do great things in Rome. Luke instills a picture of Paul standing before Caesar in three chapters (Acts. 25-27). But in Acts 28, only 16 verses say about Paul’s ministry in Rome. Out of 16, the last two verses of Acts hint about what Paul did during the two years in Rome, and the remaining 14 verses tell us of his interaction with the Jews. Acts 28:30-31 does not say anything about whether he stood before Caesar and his ministry to the Gentiles. How shall we know the purpose of the Lord who brought Paul to Rome?
Although the book of Acts does not say what Paul did after reaching Rome, Paul’s epistles testify what the Lord did through him in Rome and how his ministry encouraged the churches in other places. Paul’s four epistles—Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians—were written during the two years. They say more about what the Lord accomplished through Paul. He writes, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel,” and “most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear” (Phil.1:12-14). Phil.4:22 suggests that there were Christians from even “Caesar’s household.” Colossians 4:10-11 says that Paul was not alone but with his fellow workers. In his last epistle from Rome, Paul says, “The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it” (2 Timothy 4:17). Although he was a prisoner in Rome, his imprisonment helped advance the Gospel, and many were encouraged to preach the Gospel boldly and without fear. Nothing can stop the Gospel work.
Our Lord Jesus told his disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The Church began its Gospel ministry from Jerusalem and spread it to other places from the Pentecost day onwards so that all may hear the Gospel of Jesus. The Church’s ministry did not end with Acts 28. “With all boldness and without hindrance,” the Church continues to preach the Gospel even today. Like the Lord worked with his disciples and confirmed his word, he works with us even today. Until all people hear the Gospel, there will be no end to the book of Acts.
Application: I should preach the Gospel “with all boldness and without hindrance!” As a disciple of Jesus, I am responsible for continuing the Lord's work and spreading the Gospel. I must live a worthy life to say, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil.1:21).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the Holy Spirit who anoints me to be your witness. Jesus, fill me with your Spirit and help me to use my time wisely to spread the Gospel message of the Kingdom of God everywhere. May your good Spirit lead me in your way and enable me to do your will. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 220
Scripture: Romans 1: 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Observation: Paul’s epistle to Rome systematically explains Christian doctrines and theology. Many bible experts consider Romans 1:16,17 as Paul’s central theme or thesis statement for the whole epistle. This very passage played a vital role in the transformation of Martin Luther, who led the Reformation movement. From the first century onwards, the Gospel of Jesus Christ greatly impacted the world and dramatically changed men’s and women’s lives. The Gospel is not just the name of a book or the title of a speech. As Paul says here, “it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” The Gospel is synonymous with the person of Jesus Christ. Believing a person who was killed by a Roman crucifixion might have been considered shameful. However, Paul sees the power of the Gospel that can save everyone who believes. The Gospel is available to all and can save anyone who believes in Jesus. In other words, everyone needs salvation. They can be saved only by the power of the Gospel. One may wonder why every person needs the salvation of God. As Paul explains, all became sinners by not worshipping the Creator.
Further, the Gospel reveals the righteousness of God that saves a sinner from judgment. Those who believe in the Gospel will receive God’s righteousness and are declared righteous. This righteousness comes from the Lord and is received by faith alone. It cannot be earned by any other means. By faith, we receive God’s righteousness and are made righteous in the sight of God. “The righteous will live by faith.” A person may have spent years believing vain things and gained nothing. However, when s/he believes the Gospel or the person of Jesus Christ, they receive life and salvation by faith. History tells us scores of people who received transformation in their lives after they believed in Jesus Christ. Jesus already paid the price for this righteousness. We receive it by faith and are saved by his grace. How do we live?
Application: In any circumstance, I should be a witness to the Gospel with all boldness. I may be weak in various ways. But the Gospel is powerful to save me and can make my relationship with God right. My self-righteousness cannot save me, but God saves me and declares me righteous when I believe in the Gospel. I must live in God’s righteousness. As a child of God, I will live by faith.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the Gospel that displays your salvific power in the world. Jesus, thank you for the righteousness you earned for me through your sacrificial life. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to preach the Gospel boldly and help me to live by faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 221
Scripture: Psalm 40: 1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.
Observation: In Psalm 40, we see David’s prayer for help when troubles without count surrounded him (v.12). As he “waited patiently for the Lord,” he remembers all the answers and deliverances God has given him in the past. We do not know when David wrote this psalm. But we do know that David went through a lot of overwhelming problems in his life. Standing in a slimy clay pit is always tricky and dangerous as it would have quicksand at the bottom. In verse 2, David metaphorically explains how the Lord saved and gave him the strength to overcome his difficult moments when he may have struggled even to stand. When the Lord protects a person, he places him/her on a rock, a firm place to stand. Then, David expresses his hope that his song of praise will make others have faith and trust in God. Of course, The number of troubles surrounding him was numerous; they affected his vision and heart (v.12). But David first recalls God’s uncountable and unspeakable wonders (v.5) before he asks for God’s help. David encountered many troubles and enemies. However, God is his helper and deliverer. David praised God and sang new songs when he faced troubles and struggles. He was not looking at his problems, but he waited on God and remembered God’s mercies in the past as he prayed for God’s help.
When we need urgent help or face an unexpected problem, we become restless to wait on God. We may ask, “Why me, God?” We sometimes forget how the Lord helped us and led us miraculously. We would become distressed and weak by worrying and always looking at our problems. It will affect our health. When we remember how God’s helped us overcome similar or severe problems in the past, we find the strength to face our present situation. Our trust in God never goes in vain. He is our helper and deliverer. God answers our every prayer.
Application: When I encounter many struggles that weaken my legs, I need to recall God’s past help and deliverance and remind myself that this too will pass soon. God will lift me from the miry clay where I struggle to stand. He strengthens me to stand on a firm rock. Jesus is the Rock. Every trouble I face is a time to sing a new song to praise God. So I can wait patiently for the Lord to help me.
Prayer: My God, thank you for all the wonders you have done in my life. Jesus, thank you for being the rock where I stand. Holy Spirit, help me patiently wait for the Lord today and every day. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 222
My redeemer lives - The living hope for the future
Read: Job 19,20; Psalm 41; Romans 3
Scripture: Job 19: 25 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. 26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; 27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
Observation: Human suffering raises many questions concerning God and human society. Many people struggle to understand why people suffer, especially good people or innocent ones. Human response to suffering varies from person to person, depending on who goes through suffering. When Job was tested, his friends Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite came to comfort him. They recognized Job’s suffering was great. However, after seven days in silence, Job’s friends, one after another, started to accuse him; they said Job needed to repent from his sin. Job thought God was angry with him for reasons unknown to him. So, he wanted to argue with God. His friends’ accusations made Job tired. They were “worthless physicians” and “miserable comforters” to Job (Job.13:4; 16:2). Despite his friends’ allegations against him and his inability to understand why it had happened to him, Job never failed to speak about his faith and hope in God. Of course, he expressed his despair as well.
In Chapter 16, we see Job’s hope about his friend in heaven, who is his advocate, intercessor, and witness, the one who will plead with God “as a man pleads for his friend” (Job.16:19-21). In Job 19:25, we see Job’s bold confession of his faith and future hope. It implies that God is his redeemer. Notice the emphasis on the first-person language of the text in verse 27. Job says of his hope that God will defend him against all the false accusations. He was passionate about seeing it. We may not be able to understand our present crises. However, we have a living hope in Christ. Jesus Christ is our redeemer. He is our advocate who intercedes for us. The Bible says, “Let us hold firmly to the faith we profess…Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb.4:14,16).
Application: Thousands of years ago, Job was able to see his redeemer. He was very confident about his faith and hope. Against all the odds, he openly confessed his faith and expressed his heart’s longing to see God the redeemer. Seeing God with the eyes of faith helped Job to endure the suffering patiently. If I go through any suffering in my life, I need to keep my eyes on God, though I do not understand why it happened to me. When I see God, I receive the strength to overcome my present struggles and the hope for the future. My “present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed” (Rom.8:18). Do I see God as my redeemer?
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the eternal hope you have given me. Oh, my redeemer Jesus, you are my hope, the hope of glory. Lord, help me to be confident about the future you have for me and confess it boldly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 223
Scripture: Romans 4: 23 The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, 24 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Observation: Romans chapter 4 is Paul’s commentary to Gen.15:6, in which he explains Abraham was not justified by his works or by law but by faith. “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Abraham became the father of all who believe in God—the father of faithful ones. We are called to follow the footsteps of the faith of Abraham. Romans 4:18-22 explains how Abraham believed when there was no hope for him and why God considered Abraham’s faith unique. Abraham was weak, but he was not weak in faith. Abraham’s faith was not blind faith; it was built upon his belief in God’s power to do what he promised. As John Stott says, “Faith is a reasoning trust. There can be no believing without thinking.” From verse 23 onwards, Paul writes that Abraham’s experience was written for all, like the rest of the Scripture. We are called to follow the faith example of Abraham. When we believe that God raised Jesus from the dead, God will credit righteousness to us, like he justified Abraham for his faith.
Nowadays, people preach and emphasize different types of faith. Some Christians think faith is the key to material blessings. Some people believe in Jesus Christ but do not believe in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. In verse 25, we see what we need to believe about Jesus—Jesus died for our sins, and God raised him from the dead for our justification. We have an abundance of evidence to support Jesus’ resurrection. So we cannot say any excuses. Believing in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is not irrational. Our faith in Jesus Christ is not built on fables. Above all, our faith in God benefits us. We are justified by our faith in Jesus Christ.
Application: Abraham believed in God against all hope. God has given me the Bible to read and believe his words. I have no reason to doubt God. He sees my faith. I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins and “was raised to life” for my justification.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace to save us through the righteousness that comes by faith. Holy Spirit, thank you for clarifying all my doubts about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Help me to proclaim my faith in the risen Lord Jesus Christ every day and everywhere. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 224
Scripture: Romans 5: 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has been given us.
Observation: The words rejoicing and suffering, in terms of meaning, are opposite to each other. Rejoicing in suffering may appear absurd and insane. Many Christians try to accept “rejoicing in suffering” as a Christian concept, whether they believe it or not. One may ask, “how is it possible?”, “If it is true that Christ suffered for me, why should I suffer?” Romans 5 explains the benefits of being justified by faith. Our justification enables us to have peace with God and gives us access to stand in grace. It is not an emotional feeling but something we can experience in our new relationship with God. Before verse 3, Paul writes about rejoicing “in the hope of the glory of God.” This hope helps us to understand the purpose of our creation. Therefore, even our present sufferings might have God’s purpose for our lives. If we worry, we may not understand the purpose of why God allows suffering in our lives.
Rejoicing in our sufferings starts the process of experiencing the hope we have in Christ to know and learn godly wisdom. The sufferings we endure teach and mold us to become mature people for the purpose God has called us to be. So, by rejoicing in our sufferings, we can enjoy every moment of the process that helps us grow spiritually. Worldly hope may fail and disappoint us. Our hope in Christ will never put us in shame because we have Holy Spirit with us. He has filled our hearts with God’s love. As Christians, the sufferings we may face cannot affect our joy in the Lord. Rejoicing in suffering is apostolic teaching and benefits us greatly (James 1:2-5; 1 Peter 4:12-16).
Application: Since I am justified by faith, I have peace with God through Jesus Christ. My faith has given me the access to stand in the grace of God. NOTHING can affect my relationship with God. I have peace within my heart. So, I do not worry about worldly sufferings. By rejoicing in my sufferings, I allow God to do his work in and through my life.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the grace, love, and peace you have given me. It reminds me that the triune God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—is always with me. So, I can rejoice all the time, even in my sufferings. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion🗓️
Day – 225
Scripture: Romans 6: 11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.
Observation: Many Christians struggle to overcome the sinful temptations or thoughts they face daily. Some Christians think it is ok to sin, for God knows our weaknesses; He is gracious to forgive our sins. Paul questions such thoughts and asks, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” (Rom.6:1). He says a Christian who identified himself/herself with Jesus’ death and resurrection through baptism can no longer be a slave to sin. Paul suggests three steps for a victorious Christian life against sin.
The first step to victory over sin is to count ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God.” We must remind ourselves that when we first accept Jesus Christ, our old self “was crucified” with him (v.6,11). The second step is our refusal against sin to control our bodies. We must resist sin and evil desires. We should not give even a foothold to sin so that it may creep into our lives and dominate us (Eph.4:27). The third and final step to a victorious life over sin is to offer ourselves to God. We must not allow our body parts to be instruments or weapons of wickedness. Instead, we need to offer each part of our body to God “as instruments of righteousness” (v.13).
One may ask: to what extent a person could experience victory over sin? It depends on to what extent s/he applies these three steps in their life. Paul reminds us, “He (Jesus Christ) died to sin once and for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.” “In the same way,” we can live victorious lives against sin. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are “set free from sin” and are called to obey God and live under grace.
Application: I am not a slave to sin. I am saved by Christ, who sets me free from sin. I identify myself with Christ’s death and resurrection. My body parts are instruments of righteousness, not wickedness. To enjoy the new life God has given me, I should follow the three biblical instructions to overcome sin and live under grace. It is not something I must do only on the day I accept Jesus; I need to follow it daily.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace and the new life in Jesus Christ. Lord, I offer my life to you; use my body parts as instruments of righteousness. Jesus, help me to live holy for your glory. Amen.
Scripture: Romans 7: 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature [Or in the flesh] a slave to the law of sin.
Observation: Many Christians consider that Romans 7 reveals their inner struggles to live holy against their sinful nature. In Romans 7:21-25, Paul describes the dual aspect of our internal struggles and thoughts in four different ways: good vs. evil (v.21), God’s law vs. law of sin (v.22,23), a cry of self-pity vs. a joy of deliverance (v.24,25), and slavery to God’s law vs. slavery to the law of sin (v.25). Paul’s description of a believer’s inner struggles and wretchedness shows that a person cannot free himself/herself. It needs a saviour. Paul expresses his despair, depression, disappointment, and failures when he sees only himself. However, immediately after he began to see Jesus, Paul had something to thank God. Paul found the answer to his wretchedness. He finds that God is his deliverer.
We all want to live a life that pleases God. We have a passion for serving God faithfully. However, we cannot achieve it through our self-righteousness, the law, and our own efforts. Only through Jesus Christ can we be delivered from the sinful nature of our bodies. We can either always look at ourselves and fail to live a godly life or set our eyes on Jesus to experience his joy and deliverance from sin. The choice is ours!
Application: I can live a victorious Christian life only through Jesus Christ. He is the answer to all my inner struggles; Jesus delivers me from the slavery of sin. “Salvation is found in no one else” (Acts.4:12). I can experience true freedom only through Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance and salvation you have given me through Jesus. Holy Spirit, help me fix my eyes on Jesus to experience the joy of spiritual freedom that delivers me from all forms of slavery. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 227
Scripture: Romans 8: 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba,[Aramaic for father] Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
Observation: Across the world, childless couples adopt kids for various reasons, such as to become parents (to be a father or mother to a child), to show love and be loved, to perpetuate their family name and legacy, to overcome infertility, and for their own personal reasons. Whatever the reason, an adopted child is entitled to inherit the estate of its adopted parents and have equal rights, just like every legal heir. Nobody can be compelled to adopt a child. It is the choice of a couple to choose a child to become theirs.
Romans 8 says that the Spirit, who lives within us and leads us, makes us children of God. The law of the Spirit liberates us from the law of sin and death that enslaves us (v.2). The Spirit we received never enslaves but enables us to call God “Abba Father.” Through adoption, we receive a unique and intimate relationship with God. The Spirit testifies to our loving relationship with God. No other religion offers such a special privilege to a believer to call God almighty “Abba, Father.” Our relationship with God is not made of fear but love.
How a child loves/obeys/serves his/her parent differs from how an enslaved person serves his/her master. A child is motivated by love to honor his/her parent. However, a slave works out of the fear of punishment or with an expectation of a reward. We have a unique relationship with him. God is not biased in choosing his children. All “who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God” (Rom.8:14). How do we express our love to God the Father?
Application: I rejoice in my relationship with God the Father. I am a child of God. I am no longer a slave to sin or fear. When I pray, when I need help, and when I want to express my love, I can call God “Abba, Father.” I need not fear and worry about anything. I have the responsibility to fulfill the will/desire of God. Holy Spirit enables me to do everything for God’s glory.
Prayer: Abba, thank you for your love that embraces me. I can experience your love every day. Your love dispels all fear and gives me unspeakable joy and freedom from slavery. Father God, whatever my situation may be, I am your child; help me to realize it today and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 228
Scripture: Romans 9: 13 Just as it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Observation: Many critics of the Bible question God and ask, “Why did God hate Esau?” Some Christians also think it is difficult to understand and explain Romans 9:13. A woman once said to Spurgeon, “I cannot understand why God should say that He hated Esau.” “That,” Spurgeon replied, “is not my difficulty, madam. My trouble is to understand how God could love Jacob!” Still, some may ask how the God of love could hate an unborn child. Was God unjust to Esau?
Before we answer this question, we should know that God’s actions are not arbitrary. In Matthew 6:24, 10:37, Luke 14:26, and John 12:25, Jesus speaks of loving him first before we love our family and anything else. So, we cannot take the literal meaning that God hated Esau. We should remember that Sovereign God has a plan when he chooses a person. God has the right to do what he desires. We may not understand it now.
Apostle Paul emphatically denies that God is not unjust. He cites God’s mercy to prove that God is not unjust. Nobody can earn God’s mercy by works. We “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom.3:23), But the God of grace is merciful with us and justified us to receive his salvation through Jesus Christ. God’s mercies remind us that he is righteous and loving.
Application: The God I worship is Sovereign over everything. He never does anything unfair. When I do not understand certain things, instead of doubting God, I should try to see the broad picture of God that includes all. God loves all, and his salvation is available to every person. God’s salvation cannot be achieved by human efforts. The Bible reminds me, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast (Eph.2:8,9).
Prayer: Righteous God, thank you for your mercies on my life. I deserve nothing to receive your love and compassion. Sovereign God, open my eyes to see your works. Father God, help me always love and trust you in all things. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 229
Scripture: Romans 10: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Observation: “Jesus is Lord” is the shortest and the earliest creed of the church. When a person confesses “Jesus is Lord,” he accepts Jesus’ human and divine nature, which was the foundation of the Apostle’s preaching in the Early Church. To receive the salvation of God, one needs to believe Jesus in his heart and confess his faith. It is an outward expression of inward faith. It should come from our hearts when we confess or speak about our faith in Jesus Christ. In the early Church, Christians publicly confessed their faith during baptism.
In Matthew 10:32,33, Jesus encourages us to acknowledge him before people. However, there are countries and opposing environments where Christians cannot openly profess their faith. They need our prayers. On the other hand, some people do not want to disclose their Christian faith for social and selfish reasons. A Christian leader says that such so-called secret believers become scared of society and eventually lose their faith in Jesus. There should be a correlation between what we believe about Jesus in our hearts and what we confess about him publicly.
We must be honest in confessing and practicing our faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 Cor.12:3, Apostle Paul says, “No one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.” When we confess, “Jesus is Lord,” we say that we are witnesses to his death and resurrection. Do we allow Jesus to be the Lord over every part of our lives?
Application: Jesus is the Lord of my life. It is by faith I am justified, not by works. I receive God’s salvation by confessing my faith in him. I should not hesitate to acknowledge and express my faith in Jesus Christ. The name of Jesus is above every name. Every tongue shall confess Jesus Christ is the Lord. I am a witness to Jesus.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for your life and sacrifice that opened the way for my salvation. Help me to exalt your name in my life and confess my faith in you. Oh, Holy Spirit, strengthen me to help people understand “Jesus is Lord” and help me to be a faithful witness for Jesus. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 230
*Scripture:* Romans 11: 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” 36 For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
*Observation:* In the last verses of Romans 11, we see Paul’s doxology to praise and worship God. In Romans chapters 1-11, Paul precisely explained the following: the truth that all (both the Jews and Gentiles) sinned against God and lost glory, the need for salvation, God’s plan for salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our union with Christ, deliverance from the law of sin, our blessedness as God’s children, and our righteousness with God that we receive by faith.
Before he moves further, he takes a break and worships God with a song of praise. Pondering God’s wisdom and knowledge, Paul first expresses his admiration. Then, he asks two rhetorical questions that affirm the greatness of God. God needs nothing from us; we cannot outdo God in giving. In Rom.11:36, Paul sums up his theological understanding: God is our Creator and sustainer of all things; everything belongs to God. Paul concludes Romans 11 with a word of praise and worship to God.
We must know that our beliefs about God and our worship of God are interconnected and inseparable; one cannot exist without the other. John Stott, one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century, says, “The true knowledge of God will always lead us to worship, as it did to Paul. Our place is on our faces before him in adoration.” A theology that does not lead us to worship God and our worship that has no theology are both dangerous. Our theological understanding helps us to know who we are before God and what he did for us. Eventually, it leads us to say, “To him be the glory forever!”
*Application:* I cannot fully understand the greatness of God’s wisdom and knowledge. All I can do when thinking about his judgments and paths is to stand in awe. He knows everything. I cannot outgive God. God has given me his very best for me. He is my maker. God saves me through his Son Jesus and sustains me with his powerful word. He is worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. I will always worship him.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for your love and everything you do for me. Thank you for your mercy and grace that saved me. Jesus, help me to live for God’s glory. “To him be the glory forever!” Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 231
Scripture: Acts 19: 1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”“John’s baptism,” they replied.
Observation: In Acts 19:2-3, we see two surprising and significant questions: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit,” and “What baptism did you receive?” It is surprising because these questions were posed to “some disciples.” It is significant because receiving the Holy Spirit and Baptism are essential in the Christian life. If somebody asks us to answer these two questions, our answers will reflect the beliefs of the Church we attend or our Church’s denomination. However, looking at the scriptural context may help us to understand why Paul asked these questions. As the quoted verses suggest, they knew John’s baptism and had no idea about the Holy Spirit. It seems they did not know about the Gospel of Jesus but had some idea about Jesus. They were disciples who knew only the baptism of John, like Apollos (Acts 18:24-26). They were not aware of the personhood of the Holy Spirit.
Then, Paul asked them about Baptism. Many Christians misunderstand or become confused when they read about the baptism in Jesus’ name. We may wonder whether the apostles’ practice of baptism was against the teaching of Jesus (Mt.28:19). Non-trinitarians claim that even the apostles gave baptism in Jesus’ name to prove their point. However, we must know that there are logical problems in believing such claims. In the book of Acts, “baptized in Jesus’ name” does not refer to a formula of baptism. Instead, it indicates the open confession of faith of the persons who were baptized.
In those days, Jews were familiar with different baptisms: John’s baptism, Gentiles’ baptism to accept Judaism, and baptism for the dead (1 Cor.15) are some of them. Therefore, when a person is baptized in Jesus’ name, it differentiates him/her from other baptisms and expresses their faith in Jesus Christ. They confirmed their commitment to follow Jesus Christ and his teachings through baptism. Significantly, they received the Holy Spirit after their baptism. Our baptism is a public expression of our faith and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. When we receive the Holy Spirit, he gives us the strength to follow Jesus and practice our faith in him. Jesus promised us about the Holy Spirit (John 14:16,17; 15:26; 16:13). We need Holy Spirit in our daily walk with Christ to lead a godly life. The question is, have we received the Holy Spirit? Let us not limit the power and works of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Application: Every day, I need to be filled with the Holy Spirit to walk in the truth of God. He reminds me of Jesus’ teachings and empowers me to live as a witness of God. God the Father has generously poured the Holy Spirit on me through Jesus Christ. To live a life that pleases God, I must walk by the Spirit.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, thank you for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Help me always to be filled with the Holy Spirit and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 208
Scripture: Psalm 27: 4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Observation: Our life needs are dynamic and keep changing every day. Something that we deem as precious today may become a nuisance tomorrow. Many things we craved to have in our lives may become undesirable once we received or achieved them. So we may not be able to give a precise answer concerning the one thing we want to ask the Lord. Our responses vary depending on our life circumstances. But David, in Psalm 27, confidently expresses the one thing he wants to ask the Lord. We do not know when David wrote Psalm 27. Verses 2, 3, 10, and 12 allude to some of the challenges David went through in his life. Regardless of the place, whether in the palace or the wilderness, we can be sure that David would ask the same thing from the Lord. His life testifies that he sought nothing else other than God (1 Sam. 13:14).
David wanted to live in the house of the Lord throughout his life. He was regular to seek God. David desired “to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,” not his enemies or opposing situations. David knew that the Lord is his light; the Lord’s light will remove all the darkness in his life. He found that the presence of the Lord or being in his presence and protection is a safer place from his enemies. Dwelling in the house of the Lord is indeed a great blessing (Ps.23:6; 26:8; 91:1). Assuredly, David would have had various responsibilities and works in his life. However, his top priority or heart’s longing was to be with the Lord and seek him.
Let us remember what Jesus told Martha: “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10: 41, 42). Our worries bring no benefits or changes. But God can change anything. When we seek God, he gives us the confidence to face our problems and enemies. Do we still ask for worldly things and babble many things in our prayers? (Mt.6:5-8). Let us seek God, God alone, in our lives.
Application: Whether facing challenging situations or living in abundance, I should remember that my ultimate need is God. No worldly things can give me the joy, peace, and security I enjoy in the Lord; God dispels my fears and fills my life with his light. God is my first need; I should seek the Lord regularly. I must seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness. My eyes should be on the Lord and the splendor of his holiness, not on my enemies.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the light you have given in my life. You deliver me from my enemies. My God, help me keep my eyes focused on you and seek you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 209
Scripture: Psalm 28: 9 Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Observation: Psalm 28 starts with David’s desperate prayer for deliverance from the deadly dangers that he faced in his life. David asks for God’s help and pleads for his mercy to save his life (v.1,2). However, in verses 6-7, David expresses his joy and confidence in God since God answered his “cry for mercy.” His cry for help turned out to be a cry of praise. When he explains why God responded to his prayers, he says, “My heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” A heart that trusts God rejoices and is filled with songs of praise. After receiving answers to his prayers, David now prays for his people (v.9). He asks God to be the shepherd of his people to save and bless them. God saves his people whenever they are in distress.
God is the savior and shepherd of his people (Ps.23; Is.40:11; 63:9). God protects and guides his people and meets all their needs. God leads his people like a shepherd leads his flock (Ps.23; 78:52; 80:1). God’s blessings are upon his people; He blesses their lives every day. When deadly diseases or dangers surround us, we can trust God. He is our strength and shield. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, provides deliverance from all the deadly dangers and blesses us (Jn.10:10,11).
Application: The Bible says, “Blessed is the people whose God is the Lord” (Ps.144:15). When I trust God, he saves and blesses me. “The Lord is my strength and my shield” (Ps.28:7). Since God is with me, “I will fear no evil” (Ps.23:4). He saves me “from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence”; He answers my prayer and blesses me with every blessing and eternal life (Ps.91:3,15, 16). I will trust God always.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your salvation and blessings. Jesus, I am a sheep in your flock; I want to follow you diligently. Carry me in your hands and protect me from all dangers today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 210
Scripture: Psalm 29:3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.
Observation: Canaanites believed Baal was a powerful god; they considered him the power present in the thunderstorm. In contrast, Psalm 29 illustrates that the power and glory of the Lord are visible and audible on this earth and invites the people to worship God. “The voice of the LORD” occurs seven times in Ps.29. When God spoke to Moses, people saw thunder and lightning and were afraid (Exo.19:16-19). Likewise, the Lord’s voice is often identified with thunder (1 Sam. 7:10; Job 37:4-5; Psalm 18:13; Isa. 30:30-31; Jn12:29). The voice of the Lord is all-powerful and has creative power (Gen.1, Ps.33:6-9). The Bible says, “By God’s word the heavens came into being, and the earth was formed out of the water and by water” (2 Peter 3:5). Although the voice of the LORD reveals the power and glory of God, its primary intention is to communicate and speak with humans and to invite them to worship the creator.
Does God speak today? In the past, God spoke through his prophets and in various ways. But now, he speaks through Jesus Christ. (Heb.1:1,2) We must listen to Jesus’ words (Mt. 17:5; Mk 9:7; Luke 9:35; Heb.12:25). Jesus is the Word of God (Jn.1:1; Rev.19:16). When we read the Bible, the Word of God and commune with him, Jesus speaks to us. In fact, he is willing to talk with us more than we desire to speak with him. Jesus often said, “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The Bible warns, “If only you would hear his voice, Do not harden your hearts” (Ps.95:8). Let us hear God’s words and put them into practice.
Application: When God comes to speak with me, he asks, “Where are you?” (Gen.3:9). I should not/cannot hide anything from God. I am “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Rom.6:11). Every creation, even the winds and the waves, obeys the words of Jesus. I must read and listen to the loving words of Jesus. He is the LORD.
Prayer: LORD, you are the living God. My God, thank you for your love. Your words are active and alive. Jesus, your words are full of the Spirit and life. Holy Spirit, help me to remember them everyday and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 211
Scripture: Esther 4: 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Observation: Haman’s wrath against all the Jews appears unreasonable and raises questions concerning the motives behind his evil scheme. Further, we do not know why Mordecai refused to respect Haman, for there was nothing against it in the Law of Moses. Mordecai and Haman’s ancestral names remind us of the long-standing tension between the Amalekites and the Israelites (Exodus 17:14-16; 1 Sam.15:7-9). Haman, the Agagite, perhaps wanted to take revenge against Mordecai, the Benjamite. Haman successfully persuaded the king in favor of his plan to annihilate all the Jews from the empire. Haman might have thought that nobody could stop his plan, which was against God’s redemption plan. Haman was utterly unaware of Esther’s Jewish origin and her connection with Mordecai.
At this time, Mordecai sent a message to Queen Esther to remind her responsibility to save her people and plead with the king for their lives. He said Esther’s royal position might be a divine providence to protect her people. Mordecai was sure that Esther should intervene for the Jews. Then Esther asked Mordecai to call all the Jews who lived in Susa to fast for her for three days. She also fasted with them with a determination, “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). Before Esther went to the king to intercede for her people, she joined with people’s sorrow in fasting and prayer (Esther 4:3). Esther must have understood her role to save her people during such a time as this. Joseph also had a similar experience (Gen. 45:7). It is not coincidental that we are in a particular place or position. When a crisis comes, with prayer and fasting, we should do all we can do. Then we can be sure that God will do the rest and will be glorified through us. God, who averted the evil plans of Haman, is faithful to protect his people from all the dangers and diseases even today. Trusting God, we need to intercede for our people and start doing something for them. We should not remain silent.
Application: God has a call and purpose for my life. Even before a threat comes against God’s people or me, God knows them and prepares his provision accordingly well in advance. I can trust God during challenging times and pray for his help. When I act on faith in God’s power, He does great things.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for reminding me to pray for people in dire need and suffering. Lord, help me to intercede for them in prayer and fasting and remain in you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 212
Scripture: Psalm 31: 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you.
Observation: When a person's life is full of problems, people usually stay away from such persons and offer them no help to come out of their distressing situation. But, one's wealth and position attract many friends. David faced many enemies, problems, and slanders throughout his life and was often isolated/abandoned by friends. His fears were genuine. Yet, David put his trust and hope in God; he surrendered his life in God's hand. When David looked at God instead of giving space to his fears, he was able to see what the Lord had prepared and stored for him. They are indescribable!
God never wrings his hands, wondering how to deal with the troublesome situation as we do in such times. He is the all-knowing God; he has the solution for man's every problem. He has already stored all the good things for his beloved children. So when we face a problem or hostility, we can focus on God, who has answers for all our problems. God reveals his goodness when we require it; He bestows his abundant good things upon us to make others understand his grace. However, we should know that God does not give all the goodness he stored for us all at once. He showers his blessings on our lives and saves us from our depression and distress according to our needs. "As it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"—the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit" (1 Cor.2:9-10). We need not worry about anything else when we trust God.
Application: When I trust God and take refuge in him, I can be sure of his goodness, which enables me to face and overcome my problems. People may go away from me and consider me an unwanted person. However, God never does it. His grace saves me and makes me strong in the Lord. Whenever I face a problem or need, I can be confident about God's providence to handle/overcome the situation. He has already stored up his goodness for me. I need not fear about my life and future.
Prayer: How great you are, my God! There is no one like you. Lord Jesus, help me to look to you for help and wisdom. Holy Spirit, open my eyes to see what God has stored for me; help me be strong in the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 213
Scripture: Job 1: 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." 9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied.
Observation: The book of Job is the oldest book of the Old Testament. Though there is no detail of authorship of the book of Job, scholars consider it might have been written during or before the time of Abraham. Many Christians are afraid of or reluctant to read the book of Job due to the sudden and disastrous events that happened to Job. (I encourage everyone to read the book of Job to understand biblical wisdom on various issues we face today). Although Job lived an exemplary godly life that every human wants to have, it is a question for many people, why did God allow Satan to inflict harm in Job's life? In Job 1:8, we see how God applauds Job. However, Satan, who accuses godly people before our God day and night, blamed Job. He charged that Job fears God for selfish reasons. Satan either entices people to sin against God or blames them that their faith in God for having selfish motives. However, Job's faith in God was unwavering even after he lost everything he had. It proved that Satan's cynical accusation was false and that Job's righteousness was genuine.
The life of Job reminds us that we can trust God even when the worst of the worst things happen to us. It doesn't mean that we all could experience such a catastrophe in our lives. Instead, It implies that everything, even Satan, is under God's control. We may not immediately know why God allows harmful things in our lives. We will know God's purposes when we come out of such difficult times. Even when tempted to abandon his integrity and curse God, "Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing." Thousands of years ago, if Job could remain firm in his faith in God, how much stronger can we be for the Lord? As Paul says, "Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Rom.8:18). No human helped Job during his sufferings. But, we have Jesus who is able to help us in our sufferings and temptations (Heb.2:18). God's wisdom will be revealed through our lives in HIS time.
Application: I should not seek God for selfish reasons or material blessings. Instead, my relationship with God should be based on Love. I loved him because he first loved me (1 Jn.4:19). Whatever happens to me, I will not renounce my faith and trust in God. Standing firm in the faith, I will resist the devil (1 Peter 5:9). "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial" (James 1:12). God is the greatest blessing for those who love him.
Prayer: Father God, I praise you for all things are under your control. I am under your protection. Satan cannot touch me, without your permission. Lord Jesus, give me your strength to remain strong in my faith when facing trials and temptations. Help me to stand against the devil's schemes and use the sword of the Spirit correctly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 214
Scripture: Psalm 33: 18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, 19 to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.
Observation: History tells us a lot about the fall of many great emperors, kingdoms, and leaders, who had vast armies, wealth, and people strength. They all would have thought that nobody could win or shake their power during the peak of their lives and fame. Their trust in their prowess, army, and wealth did not help them in the disasters of their lives. Many of them died without any help. As Ps.33:16-17 says, worldly strengths and power are "vain." They cannot help us in times of trouble. "But the eyes of the Lord" are on god-fearing people to give them the strength for deliverance and providence for their needs. God's unfailing love is the greatest hope for us during times of need.
During widespread disasters and famine, people may look here and there to find hope or help when they fight for their lives and crave food. When we who believe in God find ourselves in such situations, we can put our hope in God's unfailing love. As we read here, HIS eyes are on us. God knows our needs and struggles; He will never forsake us. For his love is unchanging and unfailing love. Our Lord Jesus overcame death and is alive even today. The Bible encourages us to put our hope in God during difficult times. Because the Lord's eyes are on us, he will answer our prayers and guide us to cross the dark valleys of our lives (Ps.34:15, 1 Pet.3:12). Remember: God never promised that we would have a life free from worries and wants. But, he has promised his help to deliver us from death and provide what we need during our testing times. So, we can put our hope in him. "We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield" (Ps.33:20).
Application: The Lord sees me and knows my needs. My human strength and worldly wealth cannot always save me from troubles. When I trust my earthly things, it turns my attention away from the LORD and causes more problems. On the other hand, when I fear God and put my trust in his unfailing love, I find answers to my prayers and a solution to my pressing needs. My eyes and hope should always be on Jesus.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your loving eyes that see me. I praise you for knowing my every need and how to deal with it. God, help me to put my trust and faith in you today and always.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 215
Scripture: Acts 24: 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Observation: Many people admire the teachings of Jesus Christ and the simplicity of the Gospel. However, many (including many Christians) want to hear only messages that soothe their ears and are pleasant to their hearts. People generally do not like to hear a message that confronts them. Here, we see a Roman governor Felix, “who was well acquainted with the Way” (Christians were first called people belonging to the Way), met Paul with his Jewish wife to hear more about the faith in Christ Jesus. In those days, when rulers met philosophers and great teachers in private to clarify their doubts, they would try to please the rulers to gain their confidence or rewards. They usually would not say anything against the rulers, fearing dire consequences. However, Paul was fearless in preaching the Gospel and talked about the immediate need of Felix and Drusilla—the knowledge about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. We do not know why Paul particularly emphasized these three things. Nevertheless, history affirms that Paul’s choice of topics was right.
Notice Felix’s response to the message: He was afraid and tried to move Paul away from him. Paul’s talk must have touched his conscience and made him aware of the sins he committed. With no interest in hearing further and accepting the message, he said, “That’s enough.” When people hear something they don’t like, they immediately respond, “That’s enough.” Felix was unwilling to accept the message Paul preached to him but hoped to receive a bribe from Paul and talk with him “frequently,” intending to obtain money (illegally). Before he found a convenient time to hear the Gospel from Paul in the next two years, he was removed from his office.
People who postpone their decision to accept Christ do not find a convenient time again to confess Jesus is the Lord. Paul could have tried to please the governor and arranged a sum of money, thinking he could preach to more people if he came out of prison. Paul chose to be faithful to Jesus, who called him to preach the Gospel. It gave him more opportunities to speak about the Lord in royal places. Felix was not ready to accept the Way of Jesus and said excuses. Are we prepared to be faithful to live for Christ and preach the Gospel? We must be prepared to meet our God.
Application: Messages related to righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come are relevant to all ages. People, especially rulers, think that whatever they do is right and never want to be questioned by others. I should not be like them. My “righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Is.64:6). I am justified by faith in Jesus Christ. Christ is my righteousness. Self-control is a part of the fruit of the Spirit. I belong to Christ Jesus; I have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal.5:22-24). I am accountable to God. My life does not end in this world. Christ called me for eternal life. I must be ready to stand before God.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the Gospel that sets people free from the bondage of sin. Lord, give me the heart to accept and follow your word without any delay. Help me to bear the fruit of the Spirit in my life every day. Strengthen me to preach the Gospel without fear and prepare people to meet you, oh my God! Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 216
Scripture: Psalm 35: 28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.
Observation: Psalm 35 is one of the “Imprecatory Psalms” in the book of Psalms. In Psalm 35, David pleads to God to defend him from those who attack him without reason. The verses in the psalm suggest that David may have written this psalm when Saul chased to kill him. David tells about the types of attacks that he faced from those who fought against him: physical attack (v.1-10), personal attack (v.11-18), and verbal attack (false accusations, v.19-29). These unmotivated attacks caused an illness (v.13) and distress (v.26) in David’s life. Instead of retaliating against the malicious attacks, David invokes God to give due justice to the attackers. At the end of each of his appeals, David vows to praise God (v.9,18, 28). Each time David pleads to God concerning his internal and external struggles and troubles, he ends with a strong emphasis on praising God. Instead of giving answers to the false accusations against him, David wants to speak of God’s righteousness and praise him all day long.
What will be our reaction or response if we are mistreated or falsely accused without cause? We may want to prove our innocence or give a detailed explanation to prove the accusations are wrong. However, it is difficult for us to handle all the issues and respond to each accusation we face in our lives. We need to let God fight our battles and defend us instead of trying to do something to prove or defend ourselves. Like David, we need to focus on God and praise him in times of our needs, problems, and worries. When we praise and worship God, we understand that our God is bigger than any of the problems we may face in our lives.
Application: When I face false accusations and unmotivated attacks that affect my life, I must go to God and ask him to defend me and do justice. I should not waste my energy giving explanations or taking revenge against those who are against me. Instead of reacting to the problems I face, I need to seek God and his righteousness. Speaking and thinking about all the false accusations or attacks make me tired. But, praising God refreshes my soul and gives me the strength to stand firm for the Lord. I can praise the Lord all day long.
Prayer: Father God, you are my savior; you are the defender of the weak. I praise you for all the wonderful works you have done in my life so far. Lord Jesus, when others hate me without reason, help me to remember you and your words. My God, you bless my enemies. Give your Spirit to praise you all day long. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 217
Pray, preach, and persuade people to accept Christ
Read: Job 9,10; Psalm 36; Acts 26
Scripture: Acts 26: 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
Observation: In Acts 26, when Paul shared his testimony and ministry call and explained Jesus was the Messiah, he received two different responses—the Roman Governor Festus thought Paul became insane. King Agrippa thought Paul was trying to persuade him to accept Christ. Unlike the previous governor Felix who knew about the Christian faith, Festus did not know much about the belief in Jesus Christ. So, Paul told him about the historicity of Jesus’ death and resurrection. On the other hand, as a Jew, King Agrippa would have been aware of the messianic prophecies and the events related to the life of Jesus. Paul’s question to Agrippa was significant. He did not ask Agrippa whether he believed Jesus or not. Paul asked a question related to fundamental Jewish belief in prophets. Agrippa was aware that it was not simply a yes or no question. If he said yes, he should have believed in Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies. Agrippa would have faced the Jews’ wrath if he had said no. So Agrippa avoided such a situation by saying he could not become a Christian “in such a short time.” It doesn’t mean that Agrippa wanted to become a Christian, but he needed more time, or it was merely an excuse. Of course, nobody would accept Jesus Christ just because someone preached or persuaded them about believing Christ.
Paul’s response to King Agrippa tells us a lot about Paul’s passion for souls. Further, it reminds us to pray for all people to become followers of Christ, preach the Gospel, and persuade them to accept Jesus Christ. When we do this, we can confidently say that our faith in Jesus Christ is based on historical events, not fables.
Application: My faith in Jesus Christ is not built on “cleverly devised stories.” Jesus’ life, death, and crucifixion are well-attested events in history. I should use my time to help others to know about Jesus. I need to pray for all the people who have not yet heard of Jesus. Then, I should preach the Gospel and invite or persuade them to accept Lord Jesus. I cannot/should not compel anyone to become Christian. My life should be a testimony for others to know Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to save me. I pray for “all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Jesus, strengthen me to do my part in sharing the Gospel with all people. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 218
Scripture: Acts 27: 10 “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” 11 But the Centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
Observation: Acts 27 gives us a detailed account of the struggles of all those on the ship when they faced severe storms as Paul was taken to Rome. The journey was difficult right from the start. It was not an ideal time for long trips. So, from his extensive voyage experience and godly wisdom, Paul advised Julius and his men against their travel plans. However, he did not listen to Paul. Instead, he accepted the ship’s owner’s and the pilot’s suggestion to move from Fair Havens to Phoenix to stay safe during the winter. They faced severe winds soon after they departed to Phoenix, a harbor port 40 miles away from Fair Haven. Afterward, until they reached the island of Malta, the ship was not in their control; the wind drove them. For fourteen days, they did not eat properly. To save their lives and the ship during the terrible storm, they were to throw the cargo overboard, many tools, and even the grains. They “gave up all hope of being saved” (v.20). When the second time Paul spoke, They all listened to Paul’s words and were encouraged. They could have avoided all the tragedies if they had listened to him earlier(v.21). At last, all of their lives were spared from the hopeless situation owing to Paul’s prayer. (v.24).
The Centurion may have thought that the pilot and the Ship’s owner would know more about the wind movements and voyage than Paul. Likewise, many believe that worldly experts or experienced ones can navigate any storm and handle every situation. They fail to see that God still has control over every windy and dangerous situation. However, God saves them when they acknowledge His sovereignty and follow his instructions. Modern technologies and scientists cannot know the future. But God knows everything. He can speak to us even when we pass through severe storms in our lives and can offer us his guidance. We must listen to God and obey his instructions. The sooner we follow God, the more we can avoid many struggles in our lives and save ourselves from disasters.
Application: God, who controls the waves and the winds, sometimes may allow me to sail through severe storms of life. At such times, I must continue my prayer life with God and should pray for all people. I should be grateful to God for his provision to meet my needs during such times. When I listen to God’s word, he calms my heart and gives me His peace. There is a dawn after every darkness. I can trust God; His grace will lead me home.
Prayer: Sovereign God, thank you for your guidance and care for my life. Lord, help me to listen to your words and obey your will in all situations. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 219
Scripture: Acts 28: 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!
Observation: After reading all the difficulties of the voyage to Rome when Paul was taken to Rome, we expect that the Lord would do great things in Rome. Luke instills a picture of Paul standing before Caesar in three chapters (Acts. 25-27). But in Acts 28, only 16 verses say about Paul’s ministry in Rome. Out of 16, the last two verses of Acts hint about what Paul did during the two years in Rome, and the remaining 14 verses tell us of his interaction with the Jews. Acts 28:30-31 does not say anything about whether he stood before Caesar and his ministry to the Gentiles. How shall we know the purpose of the Lord who brought Paul to Rome?
Although the book of Acts does not say what Paul did after reaching Rome, Paul’s epistles testify what the Lord did through him in Rome and how his ministry encouraged the churches in other places. Paul’s four epistles—Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians—were written during the two years. They say more about what the Lord accomplished through Paul. He writes, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel,” and “most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear” (Phil.1:12-14). Phil.4:22 suggests that there were Christians from even “Caesar’s household.” Colossians 4:10-11 says that Paul was not alone but with his fellow workers. In his last epistle from Rome, Paul says, “The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it” (2 Timothy 4:17). Although he was a prisoner in Rome, his imprisonment helped advance the Gospel, and many were encouraged to preach the Gospel boldly and without fear. Nothing can stop the Gospel work.
Our Lord Jesus told his disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The Church began its Gospel ministry from Jerusalem and spread it to other places from the Pentecost day onwards so that all may hear the Gospel of Jesus. The Church’s ministry did not end with Acts 28. “With all boldness and without hindrance,” the Church continues to preach the Gospel even today. Like the Lord worked with his disciples and confirmed his word, he works with us even today. Until all people hear the Gospel, there will be no end to the book of Acts.
Application: I should preach the Gospel “with all boldness and without hindrance!” As a disciple of Jesus, I am responsible for continuing the Lord's work and spreading the Gospel. I must live a worthy life to say, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil.1:21).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the Holy Spirit who anoints me to be your witness. Jesus, fill me with your Spirit and help me to use my time wisely to spread the Gospel message of the Kingdom of God everywhere. May your good Spirit lead me in your way and enable me to do your will. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 220
Scripture: Romans 1: 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Observation: Paul’s epistle to Rome systematically explains Christian doctrines and theology. Many bible experts consider Romans 1:16,17 as Paul’s central theme or thesis statement for the whole epistle. This very passage played a vital role in the transformation of Martin Luther, who led the Reformation movement. From the first century onwards, the Gospel of Jesus Christ greatly impacted the world and dramatically changed men’s and women’s lives. The Gospel is not just the name of a book or the title of a speech. As Paul says here, “it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” The Gospel is synonymous with the person of Jesus Christ. Believing a person who was killed by a Roman crucifixion might have been considered shameful. However, Paul sees the power of the Gospel that can save everyone who believes. The Gospel is available to all and can save anyone who believes in Jesus. In other words, everyone needs salvation. They can be saved only by the power of the Gospel. One may wonder why every person needs the salvation of God. As Paul explains, all became sinners by not worshipping the Creator.
Further, the Gospel reveals the righteousness of God that saves a sinner from judgment. Those who believe in the Gospel will receive God’s righteousness and are declared righteous. This righteousness comes from the Lord and is received by faith alone. It cannot be earned by any other means. By faith, we receive God’s righteousness and are made righteous in the sight of God. “The righteous will live by faith.” A person may have spent years believing vain things and gained nothing. However, when s/he believes the Gospel or the person of Jesus Christ, they receive life and salvation by faith. History tells us scores of people who received transformation in their lives after they believed in Jesus Christ. Jesus already paid the price for this righteousness. We receive it by faith and are saved by his grace. How do we live?
Application: In any circumstance, I should be a witness to the Gospel with all boldness. I may be weak in various ways. But the Gospel is powerful to save me and can make my relationship with God right. My self-righteousness cannot save me, but God saves me and declares me righteous when I believe in the Gospel. I must live in God’s righteousness. As a child of God, I will live by faith.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the Gospel that displays your salvific power in the world. Jesus, thank you for the righteousness you earned for me through your sacrificial life. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to preach the Gospel boldly and help me to live by faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 221
Scripture: Psalm 40: 1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.
Observation: In Psalm 40, we see David’s prayer for help when troubles without count surrounded him (v.12). As he “waited patiently for the Lord,” he remembers all the answers and deliverances God has given him in the past. We do not know when David wrote this psalm. But we do know that David went through a lot of overwhelming problems in his life. Standing in a slimy clay pit is always tricky and dangerous as it would have quicksand at the bottom. In verse 2, David metaphorically explains how the Lord saved and gave him the strength to overcome his difficult moments when he may have struggled even to stand. When the Lord protects a person, he places him/her on a rock, a firm place to stand. Then, David expresses his hope that his song of praise will make others have faith and trust in God. Of course, The number of troubles surrounding him was numerous; they affected his vision and heart (v.12). But David first recalls God’s uncountable and unspeakable wonders (v.5) before he asks for God’s help. David encountered many troubles and enemies. However, God is his helper and deliverer. David praised God and sang new songs when he faced troubles and struggles. He was not looking at his problems, but he waited on God and remembered God’s mercies in the past as he prayed for God’s help.
When we need urgent help or face an unexpected problem, we become restless to wait on God. We may ask, “Why me, God?” We sometimes forget how the Lord helped us and led us miraculously. We would become distressed and weak by worrying and always looking at our problems. It will affect our health. When we remember how God’s helped us overcome similar or severe problems in the past, we find the strength to face our present situation. Our trust in God never goes in vain. He is our helper and deliverer. God answers our every prayer.
Application: When I encounter many struggles that weaken my legs, I need to recall God’s past help and deliverance and remind myself that this too will pass soon. God will lift me from the miry clay where I struggle to stand. He strengthens me to stand on a firm rock. Jesus is the Rock. Every trouble I face is a time to sing a new song to praise God. So I can wait patiently for the Lord to help me.
Prayer: My God, thank you for all the wonders you have done in my life. Jesus, thank you for being the rock where I stand. Holy Spirit, help me patiently wait for the Lord today and every day. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 222
My redeemer lives - The living hope for the future
Read: Job 19,20; Psalm 41; Romans 3
Scripture: Job 19: 25 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. 26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; 27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
Observation: Human suffering raises many questions concerning God and human society. Many people struggle to understand why people suffer, especially good people or innocent ones. Human response to suffering varies from person to person, depending on who goes through suffering. When Job was tested, his friends Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite came to comfort him. They recognized Job’s suffering was great. However, after seven days in silence, Job’s friends, one after another, started to accuse him; they said Job needed to repent from his sin. Job thought God was angry with him for reasons unknown to him. So, he wanted to argue with God. His friends’ accusations made Job tired. They were “worthless physicians” and “miserable comforters” to Job (Job.13:4; 16:2). Despite his friends’ allegations against him and his inability to understand why it had happened to him, Job never failed to speak about his faith and hope in God. Of course, he expressed his despair as well.
In Chapter 16, we see Job’s hope about his friend in heaven, who is his advocate, intercessor, and witness, the one who will plead with God “as a man pleads for his friend” (Job.16:19-21). In Job 19:25, we see Job’s bold confession of his faith and future hope. It implies that God is his redeemer. Notice the emphasis on the first-person language of the text in verse 27. Job says of his hope that God will defend him against all the false accusations. He was passionate about seeing it. We may not be able to understand our present crises. However, we have a living hope in Christ. Jesus Christ is our redeemer. He is our advocate who intercedes for us. The Bible says, “Let us hold firmly to the faith we profess…Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb.4:14,16).
Application: Thousands of years ago, Job was able to see his redeemer. He was very confident about his faith and hope. Against all the odds, he openly confessed his faith and expressed his heart’s longing to see God the redeemer. Seeing God with the eyes of faith helped Job to endure the suffering patiently. If I go through any suffering in my life, I need to keep my eyes on God, though I do not understand why it happened to me. When I see God, I receive the strength to overcome my present struggles and the hope for the future. My “present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed” (Rom.8:18). Do I see God as my redeemer?
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the eternal hope you have given me. Oh, my redeemer Jesus, you are my hope, the hope of glory. Lord, help me to be confident about the future you have for me and confess it boldly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 223
Scripture: Romans 4: 23 The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, 24 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Observation: Romans chapter 4 is Paul’s commentary to Gen.15:6, in which he explains Abraham was not justified by his works or by law but by faith. “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Abraham became the father of all who believe in God—the father of faithful ones. We are called to follow the footsteps of the faith of Abraham. Romans 4:18-22 explains how Abraham believed when there was no hope for him and why God considered Abraham’s faith unique. Abraham was weak, but he was not weak in faith. Abraham’s faith was not blind faith; it was built upon his belief in God’s power to do what he promised. As John Stott says, “Faith is a reasoning trust. There can be no believing without thinking.” From verse 23 onwards, Paul writes that Abraham’s experience was written for all, like the rest of the Scripture. We are called to follow the faith example of Abraham. When we believe that God raised Jesus from the dead, God will credit righteousness to us, like he justified Abraham for his faith.
Nowadays, people preach and emphasize different types of faith. Some Christians think faith is the key to material blessings. Some people believe in Jesus Christ but do not believe in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. In verse 25, we see what we need to believe about Jesus—Jesus died for our sins, and God raised him from the dead for our justification. We have an abundance of evidence to support Jesus’ resurrection. So we cannot say any excuses. Believing in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is not irrational. Our faith in Jesus Christ is not built on fables. Above all, our faith in God benefits us. We are justified by our faith in Jesus Christ.
Application: Abraham believed in God against all hope. God has given me the Bible to read and believe his words. I have no reason to doubt God. He sees my faith. I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins and “was raised to life” for my justification.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace to save us through the righteousness that comes by faith. Holy Spirit, thank you for clarifying all my doubts about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Help me to proclaim my faith in the risen Lord Jesus Christ every day and everywhere. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 224
Scripture: Romans 5: 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has been given us.
Observation: The words rejoicing and suffering, in terms of meaning, are opposite to each other. Rejoicing in suffering may appear absurd and insane. Many Christians try to accept “rejoicing in suffering” as a Christian concept, whether they believe it or not. One may ask, “how is it possible?”, “If it is true that Christ suffered for me, why should I suffer?” Romans 5 explains the benefits of being justified by faith. Our justification enables us to have peace with God and gives us access to stand in grace. It is not an emotional feeling but something we can experience in our new relationship with God. Before verse 3, Paul writes about rejoicing “in the hope of the glory of God.” This hope helps us to understand the purpose of our creation. Therefore, even our present sufferings might have God’s purpose for our lives. If we worry, we may not understand the purpose of why God allows suffering in our lives.
Rejoicing in our sufferings starts the process of experiencing the hope we have in Christ to know and learn godly wisdom. The sufferings we endure teach and mold us to become mature people for the purpose God has called us to be. So, by rejoicing in our sufferings, we can enjoy every moment of the process that helps us grow spiritually. Worldly hope may fail and disappoint us. Our hope in Christ will never put us in shame because we have Holy Spirit with us. He has filled our hearts with God’s love. As Christians, the sufferings we may face cannot affect our joy in the Lord. Rejoicing in suffering is apostolic teaching and benefits us greatly (James 1:2-5; 1 Peter 4:12-16).
Application: Since I am justified by faith, I have peace with God through Jesus Christ. My faith has given me the access to stand in the grace of God. NOTHING can affect my relationship with God. I have peace within my heart. So, I do not worry about worldly sufferings. By rejoicing in my sufferings, I allow God to do his work in and through my life.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the grace, love, and peace you have given me. It reminds me that the triune God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—is always with me. So, I can rejoice all the time, even in my sufferings. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion🗓️
Day – 225
Scripture: Romans 6: 11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.
Observation: Many Christians struggle to overcome the sinful temptations or thoughts they face daily. Some Christians think it is ok to sin, for God knows our weaknesses; He is gracious to forgive our sins. Paul questions such thoughts and asks, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” (Rom.6:1). He says a Christian who identified himself/herself with Jesus’ death and resurrection through baptism can no longer be a slave to sin. Paul suggests three steps for a victorious Christian life against sin.
The first step to victory over sin is to count ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God.” We must remind ourselves that when we first accept Jesus Christ, our old self “was crucified” with him (v.6,11). The second step is our refusal against sin to control our bodies. We must resist sin and evil desires. We should not give even a foothold to sin so that it may creep into our lives and dominate us (Eph.4:27). The third and final step to a victorious life over sin is to offer ourselves to God. We must not allow our body parts to be instruments or weapons of wickedness. Instead, we need to offer each part of our body to God “as instruments of righteousness” (v.13).
One may ask: to what extent a person could experience victory over sin? It depends on to what extent s/he applies these three steps in their life. Paul reminds us, “He (Jesus Christ) died to sin once and for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.” “In the same way,” we can live victorious lives against sin. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are “set free from sin” and are called to obey God and live under grace.
Application: I am not a slave to sin. I am saved by Christ, who sets me free from sin. I identify myself with Christ’s death and resurrection. My body parts are instruments of righteousness, not wickedness. To enjoy the new life God has given me, I should follow the three biblical instructions to overcome sin and live under grace. It is not something I must do only on the day I accept Jesus; I need to follow it daily.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace and the new life in Jesus Christ. Lord, I offer my life to you; use my body parts as instruments of righteousness. Jesus, help me to live holy for your glory. Amen.
Scripture: Romans 7: 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature [Or in the flesh] a slave to the law of sin.
Observation: Many Christians consider that Romans 7 reveals their inner struggles to live holy against their sinful nature. In Romans 7:21-25, Paul describes the dual aspect of our internal struggles and thoughts in four different ways: good vs. evil (v.21), God’s law vs. law of sin (v.22,23), a cry of self-pity vs. a joy of deliverance (v.24,25), and slavery to God’s law vs. slavery to the law of sin (v.25). Paul’s description of a believer’s inner struggles and wretchedness shows that a person cannot free himself/herself. It needs a saviour. Paul expresses his despair, depression, disappointment, and failures when he sees only himself. However, immediately after he began to see Jesus, Paul had something to thank God. Paul found the answer to his wretchedness. He finds that God is his deliverer.
We all want to live a life that pleases God. We have a passion for serving God faithfully. However, we cannot achieve it through our self-righteousness, the law, and our own efforts. Only through Jesus Christ can we be delivered from the sinful nature of our bodies. We can either always look at ourselves and fail to live a godly life or set our eyes on Jesus to experience his joy and deliverance from sin. The choice is ours!
Application: I can live a victorious Christian life only through Jesus Christ. He is the answer to all my inner struggles; Jesus delivers me from the slavery of sin. “Salvation is found in no one else” (Acts.4:12). I can experience true freedom only through Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance and salvation you have given me through Jesus. Holy Spirit, help me fix my eyes on Jesus to experience the joy of spiritual freedom that delivers me from all forms of slavery. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 227
Scripture: Romans 8: 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba,[Aramaic for father] Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
Observation: Across the world, childless couples adopt kids for various reasons, such as to become parents (to be a father or mother to a child), to show love and be loved, to perpetuate their family name and legacy, to overcome infertility, and for their own personal reasons. Whatever the reason, an adopted child is entitled to inherit the estate of its adopted parents and have equal rights, just like every legal heir. Nobody can be compelled to adopt a child. It is the choice of a couple to choose a child to become theirs.
Romans 8 says that the Spirit, who lives within us and leads us, makes us children of God. The law of the Spirit liberates us from the law of sin and death that enslaves us (v.2). The Spirit we received never enslaves but enables us to call God “Abba Father.” Through adoption, we receive a unique and intimate relationship with God. The Spirit testifies to our loving relationship with God. No other religion offers such a special privilege to a believer to call God almighty “Abba, Father.” Our relationship with God is not made of fear but love.
How a child loves/obeys/serves his/her parent differs from how an enslaved person serves his/her master. A child is motivated by love to honor his/her parent. However, a slave works out of the fear of punishment or with an expectation of a reward. We have a unique relationship with him. God is not biased in choosing his children. All “who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God” (Rom.8:14). How do we express our love to God the Father?
Application: I rejoice in my relationship with God the Father. I am a child of God. I am no longer a slave to sin or fear. When I pray, when I need help, and when I want to express my love, I can call God “Abba, Father.” I need not fear and worry about anything. I have the responsibility to fulfill the will/desire of God. Holy Spirit enables me to do everything for God’s glory.
Prayer: Abba, thank you for your love that embraces me. I can experience your love every day. Your love dispels all fear and gives me unspeakable joy and freedom from slavery. Father God, whatever my situation may be, I am your child; help me to realize it today and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 228
Scripture: Romans 9: 13 Just as it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Observation: Many critics of the Bible question God and ask, “Why did God hate Esau?” Some Christians also think it is difficult to understand and explain Romans 9:13. A woman once said to Spurgeon, “I cannot understand why God should say that He hated Esau.” “That,” Spurgeon replied, “is not my difficulty, madam. My trouble is to understand how God could love Jacob!” Still, some may ask how the God of love could hate an unborn child. Was God unjust to Esau?
Before we answer this question, we should know that God’s actions are not arbitrary. In Matthew 6:24, 10:37, Luke 14:26, and John 12:25, Jesus speaks of loving him first before we love our family and anything else. So, we cannot take the literal meaning that God hated Esau. We should remember that Sovereign God has a plan when he chooses a person. God has the right to do what he desires. We may not understand it now.
Apostle Paul emphatically denies that God is not unjust. He cites God’s mercy to prove that God is not unjust. Nobody can earn God’s mercy by works. We “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom.3:23), But the God of grace is merciful with us and justified us to receive his salvation through Jesus Christ. God’s mercies remind us that he is righteous and loving.
Application: The God I worship is Sovereign over everything. He never does anything unfair. When I do not understand certain things, instead of doubting God, I should try to see the broad picture of God that includes all. God loves all, and his salvation is available to every person. God’s salvation cannot be achieved by human efforts. The Bible reminds me, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast (Eph.2:8,9).
Prayer: Righteous God, thank you for your mercies on my life. I deserve nothing to receive your love and compassion. Sovereign God, open my eyes to see your works. Father God, help me always love and trust you in all things. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 229
Scripture: Romans 10: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Observation: “Jesus is Lord” is the shortest and the earliest creed of the church. When a person confesses “Jesus is Lord,” he accepts Jesus’ human and divine nature, which was the foundation of the Apostle’s preaching in the Early Church. To receive the salvation of God, one needs to believe Jesus in his heart and confess his faith. It is an outward expression of inward faith. It should come from our hearts when we confess or speak about our faith in Jesus Christ. In the early Church, Christians publicly confessed their faith during baptism.
In Matthew 10:32,33, Jesus encourages us to acknowledge him before people. However, there are countries and opposing environments where Christians cannot openly profess their faith. They need our prayers. On the other hand, some people do not want to disclose their Christian faith for social and selfish reasons. A Christian leader says that such so-called secret believers become scared of society and eventually lose their faith in Jesus. There should be a correlation between what we believe about Jesus in our hearts and what we confess about him publicly.
We must be honest in confessing and practicing our faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 Cor.12:3, Apostle Paul says, “No one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.” When we confess, “Jesus is Lord,” we say that we are witnesses to his death and resurrection. Do we allow Jesus to be the Lord over every part of our lives?
Application: Jesus is the Lord of my life. It is by faith I am justified, not by works. I receive God’s salvation by confessing my faith in him. I should not hesitate to acknowledge and express my faith in Jesus Christ. The name of Jesus is above every name. Every tongue shall confess Jesus Christ is the Lord. I am a witness to Jesus.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for your life and sacrifice that opened the way for my salvation. Help me to exalt your name in my life and confess my faith in you. Oh, Holy Spirit, strengthen me to help people understand “Jesus is Lord” and help me to be a faithful witness for Jesus. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 230
*Scripture:* Romans 11: 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” 36 For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
*Observation:* In the last verses of Romans 11, we see Paul’s doxology to praise and worship God. In Romans chapters 1-11, Paul precisely explained the following: the truth that all (both the Jews and Gentiles) sinned against God and lost glory, the need for salvation, God’s plan for salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our union with Christ, deliverance from the law of sin, our blessedness as God’s children, and our righteousness with God that we receive by faith.
Before he moves further, he takes a break and worships God with a song of praise. Pondering God’s wisdom and knowledge, Paul first expresses his admiration. Then, he asks two rhetorical questions that affirm the greatness of God. God needs nothing from us; we cannot outdo God in giving. In Rom.11:36, Paul sums up his theological understanding: God is our Creator and sustainer of all things; everything belongs to God. Paul concludes Romans 11 with a word of praise and worship to God.
We must know that our beliefs about God and our worship of God are interconnected and inseparable; one cannot exist without the other. John Stott, one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century, says, “The true knowledge of God will always lead us to worship, as it did to Paul. Our place is on our faces before him in adoration.” A theology that does not lead us to worship God and our worship that has no theology are both dangerous. Our theological understanding helps us to know who we are before God and what he did for us. Eventually, it leads us to say, “To him be the glory forever!”
*Application:* I cannot fully understand the greatness of God’s wisdom and knowledge. All I can do when thinking about his judgments and paths is to stand in awe. He knows everything. I cannot outgive God. God has given me his very best for me. He is my maker. God saves me through his Son Jesus and sustains me with his powerful word. He is worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. I will always worship him.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for your love and everything you do for me. Thank you for your mercy and grace that saved me. Jesus, help me to live for God’s glory. “To him be the glory forever!” Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 231
Scripture: Acts 19: 1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”“John’s baptism,” they replied.
Observation: In Acts 19:2-3, we see two surprising and significant questions: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit,” and “What baptism did you receive?” It is surprising because these questions were posed to “some disciples.” It is significant because receiving the Holy Spirit and Baptism are essential in the Christian life. If somebody asks us to answer these two questions, our answers will reflect the beliefs of the Church we attend or our Church’s denomination. However, looking at the scriptural context may help us to understand why Paul asked these questions. As the quoted verses suggest, they knew John’s baptism and had no idea about the Holy Spirit. It seems they did not know about the Gospel of Jesus but had some idea about Jesus. They were disciples who knew only the baptism of John, like Apollos (Acts 18:24-26). They were not aware of the personhood of the Holy Spirit.
Then, Paul asked them about Baptism. Many Christians misunderstand or become confused when they read about the baptism in Jesus’ name. We may wonder whether the apostles’ practice of baptism was against the teaching of Jesus (Mt.28:19). Non-trinitarians claim that even the apostles gave baptism in Jesus’ name to prove their point. However, we must know that there are logical problems in believing such claims. In the book of Acts, “baptized in Jesus’ name” does not refer to a formula of baptism. Instead, it indicates the open confession of faith of the persons who were baptized.
In those days, Jews were familiar with different baptisms: John’s baptism, Gentiles’ baptism to accept Judaism, and baptism for the dead (1 Cor.15) are some of them. Therefore, when a person is baptized in Jesus’ name, it differentiates him/her from other baptisms and expresses their faith in Jesus Christ. They confirmed their commitment to follow Jesus Christ and his teachings through baptism. Significantly, they received the Holy Spirit after their baptism. Our baptism is a public expression of our faith and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. When we receive the Holy Spirit, he gives us the strength to follow Jesus and practice our faith in him. Jesus promised us about the Holy Spirit (John 14:16,17; 15:26; 16:13). We need Holy Spirit in our daily walk with Christ to lead a godly life. The question is, have we received the Holy Spirit? Let us not limit the power and works of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Application: Every day, I need to be filled with the Holy Spirit to walk in the truth of God. He reminds me of Jesus’ teachings and empowers me to live as a witness of God. God the Father has generously poured the Holy Spirit on me through Jesus Christ. To live a life that pleases God, I must walk by the Spirit.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, thank you for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Help me always to be filled with the Holy Spirit and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 208
Scripture: Psalm 27: 4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Observation: Our life needs are dynamic and keep changing every day. Something that we deem as precious today may become a nuisance tomorrow. Many things we craved to have in our lives may become undesirable once we received or achieved them. So we may not be able to give a precise answer concerning the one thing we want to ask the Lord. Our responses vary depending on our life circumstances. But David, in Psalm 27, confidently expresses the one thing he wants to ask the Lord. We do not know when David wrote Psalm 27. Verses 2, 3, 10, and 12 allude to some of the challenges David went through in his life. Regardless of the place, whether in the palace or the wilderness, we can be sure that David would ask the same thing from the Lord. His life testifies that he sought nothing else other than God (1 Sam. 13:14).
David wanted to live in the house of the Lord throughout his life. He was regular to seek God. David desired “to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,” not his enemies or opposing situations. David knew that the Lord is his light; the Lord’s light will remove all the darkness in his life. He found that the presence of the Lord or being in his presence and protection is a safer place from his enemies. Dwelling in the house of the Lord is indeed a great blessing (Ps.23:6; 26:8; 91:1). Assuredly, David would have had various responsibilities and works in his life. However, his top priority or heart’s longing was to be with the Lord and seek him.
Let us remember what Jesus told Martha: “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10: 41, 42). Our worries bring no benefits or changes. But God can change anything. When we seek God, he gives us the confidence to face our problems and enemies. Do we still ask for worldly things and babble many things in our prayers? (Mt.6:5-8). Let us seek God, God alone, in our lives.
Application: Whether facing challenging situations or living in abundance, I should remember that my ultimate need is God. No worldly things can give me the joy, peace, and security I enjoy in the Lord; God dispels my fears and fills my life with his light. God is my first need; I should seek the Lord regularly. I must seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness. My eyes should be on the Lord and the splendor of his holiness, not on my enemies.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the light you have given in my life. You deliver me from my enemies. My God, help me keep my eyes focused on you and seek you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 209
Scripture: Psalm 28: 9 Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Observation: Psalm 28 starts with David’s desperate prayer for deliverance from the deadly dangers that he faced in his life. David asks for God’s help and pleads for his mercy to save his life (v.1,2). However, in verses 6-7, David expresses his joy and confidence in God since God answered his “cry for mercy.” His cry for help turned out to be a cry of praise. When he explains why God responded to his prayers, he says, “My heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” A heart that trusts God rejoices and is filled with songs of praise. After receiving answers to his prayers, David now prays for his people (v.9). He asks God to be the shepherd of his people to save and bless them. God saves his people whenever they are in distress.
God is the savior and shepherd of his people (Ps.23; Is.40:11; 63:9). God protects and guides his people and meets all their needs. God leads his people like a shepherd leads his flock (Ps.23; 78:52; 80:1). God’s blessings are upon his people; He blesses their lives every day. When deadly diseases or dangers surround us, we can trust God. He is our strength and shield. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, provides deliverance from all the deadly dangers and blesses us (Jn.10:10,11).
Application: The Bible says, “Blessed is the people whose God is the Lord” (Ps.144:15). When I trust God, he saves and blesses me. “The Lord is my strength and my shield” (Ps.28:7). Since God is with me, “I will fear no evil” (Ps.23:4). He saves me “from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence”; He answers my prayer and blesses me with every blessing and eternal life (Ps.91:3,15, 16). I will trust God always.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your salvation and blessings. Jesus, I am a sheep in your flock; I want to follow you diligently. Carry me in your hands and protect me from all dangers today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 210
Scripture: Psalm 29:3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.
Observation: Canaanites believed Baal was a powerful god; they considered him the power present in the thunderstorm. In contrast, Psalm 29 illustrates that the power and glory of the Lord are visible and audible on this earth and invites the people to worship God. “The voice of the LORD” occurs seven times in Ps.29. When God spoke to Moses, people saw thunder and lightning and were afraid (Exo.19:16-19). Likewise, the Lord’s voice is often identified with thunder (1 Sam. 7:10; Job 37:4-5; Psalm 18:13; Isa. 30:30-31; Jn12:29). The voice of the Lord is all-powerful and has creative power (Gen.1, Ps.33:6-9). The Bible says, “By God’s word the heavens came into being, and the earth was formed out of the water and by water” (2 Peter 3:5). Although the voice of the LORD reveals the power and glory of God, its primary intention is to communicate and speak with humans and to invite them to worship the creator.
Does God speak today? In the past, God spoke through his prophets and in various ways. But now, he speaks through Jesus Christ. (Heb.1:1,2) We must listen to Jesus’ words (Mt. 17:5; Mk 9:7; Luke 9:35; Heb.12:25). Jesus is the Word of God (Jn.1:1; Rev.19:16). When we read the Bible, the Word of God and commune with him, Jesus speaks to us. In fact, he is willing to talk with us more than we desire to speak with him. Jesus often said, “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The Bible warns, “If only you would hear his voice, Do not harden your hearts” (Ps.95:8). Let us hear God’s words and put them into practice.
Application: When God comes to speak with me, he asks, “Where are you?” (Gen.3:9). I should not/cannot hide anything from God. I am “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Rom.6:11). Every creation, even the winds and the waves, obeys the words of Jesus. I must read and listen to the loving words of Jesus. He is the LORD.
Prayer: LORD, you are the living God. My God, thank you for your love. Your words are active and alive. Jesus, your words are full of the Spirit and life. Holy Spirit, help me to remember them everyday and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 211
Scripture: Esther 4: 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Observation: Haman’s wrath against all the Jews appears unreasonable and raises questions concerning the motives behind his evil scheme. Further, we do not know why Mordecai refused to respect Haman, for there was nothing against it in the Law of Moses. Mordecai and Haman’s ancestral names remind us of the long-standing tension between the Amalekites and the Israelites (Exodus 17:14-16; 1 Sam.15:7-9). Haman, the Agagite, perhaps wanted to take revenge against Mordecai, the Benjamite. Haman successfully persuaded the king in favor of his plan to annihilate all the Jews from the empire. Haman might have thought that nobody could stop his plan, which was against God’s redemption plan. Haman was utterly unaware of Esther’s Jewish origin and her connection with Mordecai.
At this time, Mordecai sent a message to Queen Esther to remind her responsibility to save her people and plead with the king for their lives. He said Esther’s royal position might be a divine providence to protect her people. Mordecai was sure that Esther should intervene for the Jews. Then Esther asked Mordecai to call all the Jews who lived in Susa to fast for her for three days. She also fasted with them with a determination, “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). Before Esther went to the king to intercede for her people, she joined with people’s sorrow in fasting and prayer (Esther 4:3). Esther must have understood her role to save her people during such a time as this. Joseph also had a similar experience (Gen. 45:7). It is not coincidental that we are in a particular place or position. When a crisis comes, with prayer and fasting, we should do all we can do. Then we can be sure that God will do the rest and will be glorified through us. God, who averted the evil plans of Haman, is faithful to protect his people from all the dangers and diseases even today. Trusting God, we need to intercede for our people and start doing something for them. We should not remain silent.
Application: God has a call and purpose for my life. Even before a threat comes against God’s people or me, God knows them and prepares his provision accordingly well in advance. I can trust God during challenging times and pray for his help. When I act on faith in God’s power, He does great things.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for reminding me to pray for people in dire need and suffering. Lord, help me to intercede for them in prayer and fasting and remain in you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 212
Scripture: Psalm 31: 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you.
Observation: When a person's life is full of problems, people usually stay away from such persons and offer them no help to come out of their distressing situation. But, one's wealth and position attract many friends. David faced many enemies, problems, and slanders throughout his life and was often isolated/abandoned by friends. His fears were genuine. Yet, David put his trust and hope in God; he surrendered his life in God's hand. When David looked at God instead of giving space to his fears, he was able to see what the Lord had prepared and stored for him. They are indescribable!
God never wrings his hands, wondering how to deal with the troublesome situation as we do in such times. He is the all-knowing God; he has the solution for man's every problem. He has already stored all the good things for his beloved children. So when we face a problem or hostility, we can focus on God, who has answers for all our problems. God reveals his goodness when we require it; He bestows his abundant good things upon us to make others understand his grace. However, we should know that God does not give all the goodness he stored for us all at once. He showers his blessings on our lives and saves us from our depression and distress according to our needs. "As it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"—the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit" (1 Cor.2:9-10). We need not worry about anything else when we trust God.
Application: When I trust God and take refuge in him, I can be sure of his goodness, which enables me to face and overcome my problems. People may go away from me and consider me an unwanted person. However, God never does it. His grace saves me and makes me strong in the Lord. Whenever I face a problem or need, I can be confident about God's providence to handle/overcome the situation. He has already stored up his goodness for me. I need not fear about my life and future.
Prayer: How great you are, my God! There is no one like you. Lord Jesus, help me to look to you for help and wisdom. Holy Spirit, open my eyes to see what God has stored for me; help me be strong in the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 213
Scripture: Job 1: 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." 9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied.
Observation: The book of Job is the oldest book of the Old Testament. Though there is no detail of authorship of the book of Job, scholars consider it might have been written during or before the time of Abraham. Many Christians are afraid of or reluctant to read the book of Job due to the sudden and disastrous events that happened to Job. (I encourage everyone to read the book of Job to understand biblical wisdom on various issues we face today). Although Job lived an exemplary godly life that every human wants to have, it is a question for many people, why did God allow Satan to inflict harm in Job's life? In Job 1:8, we see how God applauds Job. However, Satan, who accuses godly people before our God day and night, blamed Job. He charged that Job fears God for selfish reasons. Satan either entices people to sin against God or blames them that their faith in God for having selfish motives. However, Job's faith in God was unwavering even after he lost everything he had. It proved that Satan's cynical accusation was false and that Job's righteousness was genuine.
The life of Job reminds us that we can trust God even when the worst of the worst things happen to us. It doesn't mean that we all could experience such a catastrophe in our lives. Instead, It implies that everything, even Satan, is under God's control. We may not immediately know why God allows harmful things in our lives. We will know God's purposes when we come out of such difficult times. Even when tempted to abandon his integrity and curse God, "Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing." Thousands of years ago, if Job could remain firm in his faith in God, how much stronger can we be for the Lord? As Paul says, "Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Rom.8:18). No human helped Job during his sufferings. But, we have Jesus who is able to help us in our sufferings and temptations (Heb.2:18). God's wisdom will be revealed through our lives in HIS time.
Application: I should not seek God for selfish reasons or material blessings. Instead, my relationship with God should be based on Love. I loved him because he first loved me (1 Jn.4:19). Whatever happens to me, I will not renounce my faith and trust in God. Standing firm in the faith, I will resist the devil (1 Peter 5:9). "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial" (James 1:12). God is the greatest blessing for those who love him.
Prayer: Father God, I praise you for all things are under your control. I am under your protection. Satan cannot touch me, without your permission. Lord Jesus, give me your strength to remain strong in my faith when facing trials and temptations. Help me to stand against the devil's schemes and use the sword of the Spirit correctly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 214
Scripture: Psalm 33: 18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, 19 to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.
Observation: History tells us a lot about the fall of many great emperors, kingdoms, and leaders, who had vast armies, wealth, and people strength. They all would have thought that nobody could win or shake their power during the peak of their lives and fame. Their trust in their prowess, army, and wealth did not help them in the disasters of their lives. Many of them died without any help. As Ps.33:16-17 says, worldly strengths and power are "vain." They cannot help us in times of trouble. "But the eyes of the Lord" are on god-fearing people to give them the strength for deliverance and providence for their needs. God's unfailing love is the greatest hope for us during times of need.
During widespread disasters and famine, people may look here and there to find hope or help when they fight for their lives and crave food. When we who believe in God find ourselves in such situations, we can put our hope in God's unfailing love. As we read here, HIS eyes are on us. God knows our needs and struggles; He will never forsake us. For his love is unchanging and unfailing love. Our Lord Jesus overcame death and is alive even today. The Bible encourages us to put our hope in God during difficult times. Because the Lord's eyes are on us, he will answer our prayers and guide us to cross the dark valleys of our lives (Ps.34:15, 1 Pet.3:12). Remember: God never promised that we would have a life free from worries and wants. But, he has promised his help to deliver us from death and provide what we need during our testing times. So, we can put our hope in him. "We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield" (Ps.33:20).
Application: The Lord sees me and knows my needs. My human strength and worldly wealth cannot always save me from troubles. When I trust my earthly things, it turns my attention away from the LORD and causes more problems. On the other hand, when I fear God and put my trust in his unfailing love, I find answers to my prayers and a solution to my pressing needs. My eyes and hope should always be on Jesus.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your loving eyes that see me. I praise you for knowing my every need and how to deal with it. God, help me to put my trust and faith in you today and always.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 215
Scripture: Acts 24: 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Observation: Many people admire the teachings of Jesus Christ and the simplicity of the Gospel. However, many (including many Christians) want to hear only messages that soothe their ears and are pleasant to their hearts. People generally do not like to hear a message that confronts them. Here, we see a Roman governor Felix, “who was well acquainted with the Way” (Christians were first called people belonging to the Way), met Paul with his Jewish wife to hear more about the faith in Christ Jesus. In those days, when rulers met philosophers and great teachers in private to clarify their doubts, they would try to please the rulers to gain their confidence or rewards. They usually would not say anything against the rulers, fearing dire consequences. However, Paul was fearless in preaching the Gospel and talked about the immediate need of Felix and Drusilla—the knowledge about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. We do not know why Paul particularly emphasized these three things. Nevertheless, history affirms that Paul’s choice of topics was right.
Notice Felix’s response to the message: He was afraid and tried to move Paul away from him. Paul’s talk must have touched his conscience and made him aware of the sins he committed. With no interest in hearing further and accepting the message, he said, “That’s enough.” When people hear something they don’t like, they immediately respond, “That’s enough.” Felix was unwilling to accept the message Paul preached to him but hoped to receive a bribe from Paul and talk with him “frequently,” intending to obtain money (illegally). Before he found a convenient time to hear the Gospel from Paul in the next two years, he was removed from his office.
People who postpone their decision to accept Christ do not find a convenient time again to confess Jesus is the Lord. Paul could have tried to please the governor and arranged a sum of money, thinking he could preach to more people if he came out of prison. Paul chose to be faithful to Jesus, who called him to preach the Gospel. It gave him more opportunities to speak about the Lord in royal places. Felix was not ready to accept the Way of Jesus and said excuses. Are we prepared to be faithful to live for Christ and preach the Gospel? We must be prepared to meet our God.
Application: Messages related to righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come are relevant to all ages. People, especially rulers, think that whatever they do is right and never want to be questioned by others. I should not be like them. My “righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Is.64:6). I am justified by faith in Jesus Christ. Christ is my righteousness. Self-control is a part of the fruit of the Spirit. I belong to Christ Jesus; I have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal.5:22-24). I am accountable to God. My life does not end in this world. Christ called me for eternal life. I must be ready to stand before God.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the Gospel that sets people free from the bondage of sin. Lord, give me the heart to accept and follow your word without any delay. Help me to bear the fruit of the Spirit in my life every day. Strengthen me to preach the Gospel without fear and prepare people to meet you, oh my God! Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 216
Scripture: Psalm 35: 28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.
Observation: Psalm 35 is one of the “Imprecatory Psalms” in the book of Psalms. In Psalm 35, David pleads to God to defend him from those who attack him without reason. The verses in the psalm suggest that David may have written this psalm when Saul chased to kill him. David tells about the types of attacks that he faced from those who fought against him: physical attack (v.1-10), personal attack (v.11-18), and verbal attack (false accusations, v.19-29). These unmotivated attacks caused an illness (v.13) and distress (v.26) in David’s life. Instead of retaliating against the malicious attacks, David invokes God to give due justice to the attackers. At the end of each of his appeals, David vows to praise God (v.9,18, 28). Each time David pleads to God concerning his internal and external struggles and troubles, he ends with a strong emphasis on praising God. Instead of giving answers to the false accusations against him, David wants to speak of God’s righteousness and praise him all day long.
What will be our reaction or response if we are mistreated or falsely accused without cause? We may want to prove our innocence or give a detailed explanation to prove the accusations are wrong. However, it is difficult for us to handle all the issues and respond to each accusation we face in our lives. We need to let God fight our battles and defend us instead of trying to do something to prove or defend ourselves. Like David, we need to focus on God and praise him in times of our needs, problems, and worries. When we praise and worship God, we understand that our God is bigger than any of the problems we may face in our lives.
Application: When I face false accusations and unmotivated attacks that affect my life, I must go to God and ask him to defend me and do justice. I should not waste my energy giving explanations or taking revenge against those who are against me. Instead of reacting to the problems I face, I need to seek God and his righteousness. Speaking and thinking about all the false accusations or attacks make me tired. But, praising God refreshes my soul and gives me the strength to stand firm for the Lord. I can praise the Lord all day long.
Prayer: Father God, you are my savior; you are the defender of the weak. I praise you for all the wonderful works you have done in my life so far. Lord Jesus, when others hate me without reason, help me to remember you and your words. My God, you bless my enemies. Give your Spirit to praise you all day long. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 217
Pray, preach, and persuade people to accept Christ
Read: Job 9,10; Psalm 36; Acts 26
Scripture: Acts 26: 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
Observation: In Acts 26, when Paul shared his testimony and ministry call and explained Jesus was the Messiah, he received two different responses—the Roman Governor Festus thought Paul became insane. King Agrippa thought Paul was trying to persuade him to accept Christ. Unlike the previous governor Felix who knew about the Christian faith, Festus did not know much about the belief in Jesus Christ. So, Paul told him about the historicity of Jesus’ death and resurrection. On the other hand, as a Jew, King Agrippa would have been aware of the messianic prophecies and the events related to the life of Jesus. Paul’s question to Agrippa was significant. He did not ask Agrippa whether he believed Jesus or not. Paul asked a question related to fundamental Jewish belief in prophets. Agrippa was aware that it was not simply a yes or no question. If he said yes, he should have believed in Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies. Agrippa would have faced the Jews’ wrath if he had said no. So Agrippa avoided such a situation by saying he could not become a Christian “in such a short time.” It doesn’t mean that Agrippa wanted to become a Christian, but he needed more time, or it was merely an excuse. Of course, nobody would accept Jesus Christ just because someone preached or persuaded them about believing Christ.
Paul’s response to King Agrippa tells us a lot about Paul’s passion for souls. Further, it reminds us to pray for all people to become followers of Christ, preach the Gospel, and persuade them to accept Jesus Christ. When we do this, we can confidently say that our faith in Jesus Christ is based on historical events, not fables.
Application: My faith in Jesus Christ is not built on “cleverly devised stories.” Jesus’ life, death, and crucifixion are well-attested events in history. I should use my time to help others to know about Jesus. I need to pray for all the people who have not yet heard of Jesus. Then, I should preach the Gospel and invite or persuade them to accept Lord Jesus. I cannot/should not compel anyone to become Christian. My life should be a testimony for others to know Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to save me. I pray for “all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Jesus, strengthen me to do my part in sharing the Gospel with all people. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 218
Scripture: Acts 27: 10 “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” 11 But the Centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
Observation: Acts 27 gives us a detailed account of the struggles of all those on the ship when they faced severe storms as Paul was taken to Rome. The journey was difficult right from the start. It was not an ideal time for long trips. So, from his extensive voyage experience and godly wisdom, Paul advised Julius and his men against their travel plans. However, he did not listen to Paul. Instead, he accepted the ship’s owner’s and the pilot’s suggestion to move from Fair Havens to Phoenix to stay safe during the winter. They faced severe winds soon after they departed to Phoenix, a harbor port 40 miles away from Fair Haven. Afterward, until they reached the island of Malta, the ship was not in their control; the wind drove them. For fourteen days, they did not eat properly. To save their lives and the ship during the terrible storm, they were to throw the cargo overboard, many tools, and even the grains. They “gave up all hope of being saved” (v.20). When the second time Paul spoke, They all listened to Paul’s words and were encouraged. They could have avoided all the tragedies if they had listened to him earlier(v.21). At last, all of their lives were spared from the hopeless situation owing to Paul’s prayer. (v.24).
The Centurion may have thought that the pilot and the Ship’s owner would know more about the wind movements and voyage than Paul. Likewise, many believe that worldly experts or experienced ones can navigate any storm and handle every situation. They fail to see that God still has control over every windy and dangerous situation. However, God saves them when they acknowledge His sovereignty and follow his instructions. Modern technologies and scientists cannot know the future. But God knows everything. He can speak to us even when we pass through severe storms in our lives and can offer us his guidance. We must listen to God and obey his instructions. The sooner we follow God, the more we can avoid many struggles in our lives and save ourselves from disasters.
Application: God, who controls the waves and the winds, sometimes may allow me to sail through severe storms of life. At such times, I must continue my prayer life with God and should pray for all people. I should be grateful to God for his provision to meet my needs during such times. When I listen to God’s word, he calms my heart and gives me His peace. There is a dawn after every darkness. I can trust God; His grace will lead me home.
Prayer: Sovereign God, thank you for your guidance and care for my life. Lord, help me to listen to your words and obey your will in all situations. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 219
Scripture: Acts 28: 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!
Observation: After reading all the difficulties of the voyage to Rome when Paul was taken to Rome, we expect that the Lord would do great things in Rome. Luke instills a picture of Paul standing before Caesar in three chapters (Acts. 25-27). But in Acts 28, only 16 verses say about Paul’s ministry in Rome. Out of 16, the last two verses of Acts hint about what Paul did during the two years in Rome, and the remaining 14 verses tell us of his interaction with the Jews. Acts 28:30-31 does not say anything about whether he stood before Caesar and his ministry to the Gentiles. How shall we know the purpose of the Lord who brought Paul to Rome?
Although the book of Acts does not say what Paul did after reaching Rome, Paul’s epistles testify what the Lord did through him in Rome and how his ministry encouraged the churches in other places. Paul’s four epistles—Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians—were written during the two years. They say more about what the Lord accomplished through Paul. He writes, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel,” and “most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear” (Phil.1:12-14). Phil.4:22 suggests that there were Christians from even “Caesar’s household.” Colossians 4:10-11 says that Paul was not alone but with his fellow workers. In his last epistle from Rome, Paul says, “The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it” (2 Timothy 4:17). Although he was a prisoner in Rome, his imprisonment helped advance the Gospel, and many were encouraged to preach the Gospel boldly and without fear. Nothing can stop the Gospel work.
Our Lord Jesus told his disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The Church began its Gospel ministry from Jerusalem and spread it to other places from the Pentecost day onwards so that all may hear the Gospel of Jesus. The Church’s ministry did not end with Acts 28. “With all boldness and without hindrance,” the Church continues to preach the Gospel even today. Like the Lord worked with his disciples and confirmed his word, he works with us even today. Until all people hear the Gospel, there will be no end to the book of Acts.
Application: I should preach the Gospel “with all boldness and without hindrance!” As a disciple of Jesus, I am responsible for continuing the Lord's work and spreading the Gospel. I must live a worthy life to say, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil.1:21).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the Holy Spirit who anoints me to be your witness. Jesus, fill me with your Spirit and help me to use my time wisely to spread the Gospel message of the Kingdom of God everywhere. May your good Spirit lead me in your way and enable me to do your will. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 220
Scripture: Romans 1: 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Observation: Paul’s epistle to Rome systematically explains Christian doctrines and theology. Many bible experts consider Romans 1:16,17 as Paul’s central theme or thesis statement for the whole epistle. This very passage played a vital role in the transformation of Martin Luther, who led the Reformation movement. From the first century onwards, the Gospel of Jesus Christ greatly impacted the world and dramatically changed men’s and women’s lives. The Gospel is not just the name of a book or the title of a speech. As Paul says here, “it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” The Gospel is synonymous with the person of Jesus Christ. Believing a person who was killed by a Roman crucifixion might have been considered shameful. However, Paul sees the power of the Gospel that can save everyone who believes. The Gospel is available to all and can save anyone who believes in Jesus. In other words, everyone needs salvation. They can be saved only by the power of the Gospel. One may wonder why every person needs the salvation of God. As Paul explains, all became sinners by not worshipping the Creator.
Further, the Gospel reveals the righteousness of God that saves a sinner from judgment. Those who believe in the Gospel will receive God’s righteousness and are declared righteous. This righteousness comes from the Lord and is received by faith alone. It cannot be earned by any other means. By faith, we receive God’s righteousness and are made righteous in the sight of God. “The righteous will live by faith.” A person may have spent years believing vain things and gained nothing. However, when s/he believes the Gospel or the person of Jesus Christ, they receive life and salvation by faith. History tells us scores of people who received transformation in their lives after they believed in Jesus Christ. Jesus already paid the price for this righteousness. We receive it by faith and are saved by his grace. How do we live?
Application: In any circumstance, I should be a witness to the Gospel with all boldness. I may be weak in various ways. But the Gospel is powerful to save me and can make my relationship with God right. My self-righteousness cannot save me, but God saves me and declares me righteous when I believe in the Gospel. I must live in God’s righteousness. As a child of God, I will live by faith.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the Gospel that displays your salvific power in the world. Jesus, thank you for the righteousness you earned for me through your sacrificial life. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to preach the Gospel boldly and help me to live by faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 221
Scripture: Psalm 40: 1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.
Observation: In Psalm 40, we see David’s prayer for help when troubles without count surrounded him (v.12). As he “waited patiently for the Lord,” he remembers all the answers and deliverances God has given him in the past. We do not know when David wrote this psalm. But we do know that David went through a lot of overwhelming problems in his life. Standing in a slimy clay pit is always tricky and dangerous as it would have quicksand at the bottom. In verse 2, David metaphorically explains how the Lord saved and gave him the strength to overcome his difficult moments when he may have struggled even to stand. When the Lord protects a person, he places him/her on a rock, a firm place to stand. Then, David expresses his hope that his song of praise will make others have faith and trust in God. Of course, The number of troubles surrounding him was numerous; they affected his vision and heart (v.12). But David first recalls God’s uncountable and unspeakable wonders (v.5) before he asks for God’s help. David encountered many troubles and enemies. However, God is his helper and deliverer. David praised God and sang new songs when he faced troubles and struggles. He was not looking at his problems, but he waited on God and remembered God’s mercies in the past as he prayed for God’s help.
When we need urgent help or face an unexpected problem, we become restless to wait on God. We may ask, “Why me, God?” We sometimes forget how the Lord helped us and led us miraculously. We would become distressed and weak by worrying and always looking at our problems. It will affect our health. When we remember how God’s helped us overcome similar or severe problems in the past, we find the strength to face our present situation. Our trust in God never goes in vain. He is our helper and deliverer. God answers our every prayer.
Application: When I encounter many struggles that weaken my legs, I need to recall God’s past help and deliverance and remind myself that this too will pass soon. God will lift me from the miry clay where I struggle to stand. He strengthens me to stand on a firm rock. Jesus is the Rock. Every trouble I face is a time to sing a new song to praise God. So I can wait patiently for the Lord to help me.
Prayer: My God, thank you for all the wonders you have done in my life. Jesus, thank you for being the rock where I stand. Holy Spirit, help me patiently wait for the Lord today and every day. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 222
My redeemer lives - The living hope for the future
Read: Job 19,20; Psalm 41; Romans 3
Scripture: Job 19: 25 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. 26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; 27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
Observation: Human suffering raises many questions concerning God and human society. Many people struggle to understand why people suffer, especially good people or innocent ones. Human response to suffering varies from person to person, depending on who goes through suffering. When Job was tested, his friends Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite came to comfort him. They recognized Job’s suffering was great. However, after seven days in silence, Job’s friends, one after another, started to accuse him; they said Job needed to repent from his sin. Job thought God was angry with him for reasons unknown to him. So, he wanted to argue with God. His friends’ accusations made Job tired. They were “worthless physicians” and “miserable comforters” to Job (Job.13:4; 16:2). Despite his friends’ allegations against him and his inability to understand why it had happened to him, Job never failed to speak about his faith and hope in God. Of course, he expressed his despair as well.
In Chapter 16, we see Job’s hope about his friend in heaven, who is his advocate, intercessor, and witness, the one who will plead with God “as a man pleads for his friend” (Job.16:19-21). In Job 19:25, we see Job’s bold confession of his faith and future hope. It implies that God is his redeemer. Notice the emphasis on the first-person language of the text in verse 27. Job says of his hope that God will defend him against all the false accusations. He was passionate about seeing it. We may not be able to understand our present crises. However, we have a living hope in Christ. Jesus Christ is our redeemer. He is our advocate who intercedes for us. The Bible says, “Let us hold firmly to the faith we profess…Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb.4:14,16).
Application: Thousands of years ago, Job was able to see his redeemer. He was very confident about his faith and hope. Against all the odds, he openly confessed his faith and expressed his heart’s longing to see God the redeemer. Seeing God with the eyes of faith helped Job to endure the suffering patiently. If I go through any suffering in my life, I need to keep my eyes on God, though I do not understand why it happened to me. When I see God, I receive the strength to overcome my present struggles and the hope for the future. My “present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed” (Rom.8:18). Do I see God as my redeemer?
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the eternal hope you have given me. Oh, my redeemer Jesus, you are my hope, the hope of glory. Lord, help me to be confident about the future you have for me and confess it boldly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 223
Scripture: Romans 4: 23 The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, 24 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Observation: Romans chapter 4 is Paul’s commentary to Gen.15:6, in which he explains Abraham was not justified by his works or by law but by faith. “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Abraham became the father of all who believe in God—the father of faithful ones. We are called to follow the footsteps of the faith of Abraham. Romans 4:18-22 explains how Abraham believed when there was no hope for him and why God considered Abraham’s faith unique. Abraham was weak, but he was not weak in faith. Abraham’s faith was not blind faith; it was built upon his belief in God’s power to do what he promised. As John Stott says, “Faith is a reasoning trust. There can be no believing without thinking.” From verse 23 onwards, Paul writes that Abraham’s experience was written for all, like the rest of the Scripture. We are called to follow the faith example of Abraham. When we believe that God raised Jesus from the dead, God will credit righteousness to us, like he justified Abraham for his faith.
Nowadays, people preach and emphasize different types of faith. Some Christians think faith is the key to material blessings. Some people believe in Jesus Christ but do not believe in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. In verse 25, we see what we need to believe about Jesus—Jesus died for our sins, and God raised him from the dead for our justification. We have an abundance of evidence to support Jesus’ resurrection. So we cannot say any excuses. Believing in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is not irrational. Our faith in Jesus Christ is not built on fables. Above all, our faith in God benefits us. We are justified by our faith in Jesus Christ.
Application: Abraham believed in God against all hope. God has given me the Bible to read and believe his words. I have no reason to doubt God. He sees my faith. I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins and “was raised to life” for my justification.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace to save us through the righteousness that comes by faith. Holy Spirit, thank you for clarifying all my doubts about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Help me to proclaim my faith in the risen Lord Jesus Christ every day and everywhere. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 224
Scripture: Romans 5: 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has been given us.
Observation: The words rejoicing and suffering, in terms of meaning, are opposite to each other. Rejoicing in suffering may appear absurd and insane. Many Christians try to accept “rejoicing in suffering” as a Christian concept, whether they believe it or not. One may ask, “how is it possible?”, “If it is true that Christ suffered for me, why should I suffer?” Romans 5 explains the benefits of being justified by faith. Our justification enables us to have peace with God and gives us access to stand in grace. It is not an emotional feeling but something we can experience in our new relationship with God. Before verse 3, Paul writes about rejoicing “in the hope of the glory of God.” This hope helps us to understand the purpose of our creation. Therefore, even our present sufferings might have God’s purpose for our lives. If we worry, we may not understand the purpose of why God allows suffering in our lives.
Rejoicing in our sufferings starts the process of experiencing the hope we have in Christ to know and learn godly wisdom. The sufferings we endure teach and mold us to become mature people for the purpose God has called us to be. So, by rejoicing in our sufferings, we can enjoy every moment of the process that helps us grow spiritually. Worldly hope may fail and disappoint us. Our hope in Christ will never put us in shame because we have Holy Spirit with us. He has filled our hearts with God’s love. As Christians, the sufferings we may face cannot affect our joy in the Lord. Rejoicing in suffering is apostolic teaching and benefits us greatly (James 1:2-5; 1 Peter 4:12-16).
Application: Since I am justified by faith, I have peace with God through Jesus Christ. My faith has given me the access to stand in the grace of God. NOTHING can affect my relationship with God. I have peace within my heart. So, I do not worry about worldly sufferings. By rejoicing in my sufferings, I allow God to do his work in and through my life.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the grace, love, and peace you have given me. It reminds me that the triune God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—is always with me. So, I can rejoice all the time, even in my sufferings. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion🗓️
Day – 225
Scripture: Romans 6: 11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.
Observation: Many Christians struggle to overcome the sinful temptations or thoughts they face daily. Some Christians think it is ok to sin, for God knows our weaknesses; He is gracious to forgive our sins. Paul questions such thoughts and asks, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” (Rom.6:1). He says a Christian who identified himself/herself with Jesus’ death and resurrection through baptism can no longer be a slave to sin. Paul suggests three steps for a victorious Christian life against sin.
The first step to victory over sin is to count ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God.” We must remind ourselves that when we first accept Jesus Christ, our old self “was crucified” with him (v.6,11). The second step is our refusal against sin to control our bodies. We must resist sin and evil desires. We should not give even a foothold to sin so that it may creep into our lives and dominate us (Eph.4:27). The third and final step to a victorious life over sin is to offer ourselves to God. We must not allow our body parts to be instruments or weapons of wickedness. Instead, we need to offer each part of our body to God “as instruments of righteousness” (v.13).
One may ask: to what extent a person could experience victory over sin? It depends on to what extent s/he applies these three steps in their life. Paul reminds us, “He (Jesus Christ) died to sin once and for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.” “In the same way,” we can live victorious lives against sin. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are “set free from sin” and are called to obey God and live under grace.
Application: I am not a slave to sin. I am saved by Christ, who sets me free from sin. I identify myself with Christ’s death and resurrection. My body parts are instruments of righteousness, not wickedness. To enjoy the new life God has given me, I should follow the three biblical instructions to overcome sin and live under grace. It is not something I must do only on the day I accept Jesus; I need to follow it daily.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace and the new life in Jesus Christ. Lord, I offer my life to you; use my body parts as instruments of righteousness. Jesus, help me to live holy for your glory. Amen.
Scripture: Romans 7: 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature [Or in the flesh] a slave to the law of sin.
Observation: Many Christians consider that Romans 7 reveals their inner struggles to live holy against their sinful nature. In Romans 7:21-25, Paul describes the dual aspect of our internal struggles and thoughts in four different ways: good vs. evil (v.21), God’s law vs. law of sin (v.22,23), a cry of self-pity vs. a joy of deliverance (v.24,25), and slavery to God’s law vs. slavery to the law of sin (v.25). Paul’s description of a believer’s inner struggles and wretchedness shows that a person cannot free himself/herself. It needs a saviour. Paul expresses his despair, depression, disappointment, and failures when he sees only himself. However, immediately after he began to see Jesus, Paul had something to thank God. Paul found the answer to his wretchedness. He finds that God is his deliverer.
We all want to live a life that pleases God. We have a passion for serving God faithfully. However, we cannot achieve it through our self-righteousness, the law, and our own efforts. Only through Jesus Christ can we be delivered from the sinful nature of our bodies. We can either always look at ourselves and fail to live a godly life or set our eyes on Jesus to experience his joy and deliverance from sin. The choice is ours!
Application: I can live a victorious Christian life only through Jesus Christ. He is the answer to all my inner struggles; Jesus delivers me from the slavery of sin. “Salvation is found in no one else” (Acts.4:12). I can experience true freedom only through Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance and salvation you have given me through Jesus. Holy Spirit, help me fix my eyes on Jesus to experience the joy of spiritual freedom that delivers me from all forms of slavery. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 227
Scripture: Romans 8: 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba,[Aramaic for father] Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
Observation: Across the world, childless couples adopt kids for various reasons, such as to become parents (to be a father or mother to a child), to show love and be loved, to perpetuate their family name and legacy, to overcome infertility, and for their own personal reasons. Whatever the reason, an adopted child is entitled to inherit the estate of its adopted parents and have equal rights, just like every legal heir. Nobody can be compelled to adopt a child. It is the choice of a couple to choose a child to become theirs.
Romans 8 says that the Spirit, who lives within us and leads us, makes us children of God. The law of the Spirit liberates us from the law of sin and death that enslaves us (v.2). The Spirit we received never enslaves but enables us to call God “Abba Father.” Through adoption, we receive a unique and intimate relationship with God. The Spirit testifies to our loving relationship with God. No other religion offers such a special privilege to a believer to call God almighty “Abba, Father.” Our relationship with God is not made of fear but love.
How a child loves/obeys/serves his/her parent differs from how an enslaved person serves his/her master. A child is motivated by love to honor his/her parent. However, a slave works out of the fear of punishment or with an expectation of a reward. We have a unique relationship with him. God is not biased in choosing his children. All “who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God” (Rom.8:14). How do we express our love to God the Father?
Application: I rejoice in my relationship with God the Father. I am a child of God. I am no longer a slave to sin or fear. When I pray, when I need help, and when I want to express my love, I can call God “Abba, Father.” I need not fear and worry about anything. I have the responsibility to fulfill the will/desire of God. Holy Spirit enables me to do everything for God’s glory.
Prayer: Abba, thank you for your love that embraces me. I can experience your love every day. Your love dispels all fear and gives me unspeakable joy and freedom from slavery. Father God, whatever my situation may be, I am your child; help me to realize it today and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 228
Scripture: Romans 9: 13 Just as it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Observation: Many critics of the Bible question God and ask, “Why did God hate Esau?” Some Christians also think it is difficult to understand and explain Romans 9:13. A woman once said to Spurgeon, “I cannot understand why God should say that He hated Esau.” “That,” Spurgeon replied, “is not my difficulty, madam. My trouble is to understand how God could love Jacob!” Still, some may ask how the God of love could hate an unborn child. Was God unjust to Esau?
Before we answer this question, we should know that God’s actions are not arbitrary. In Matthew 6:24, 10:37, Luke 14:26, and John 12:25, Jesus speaks of loving him first before we love our family and anything else. So, we cannot take the literal meaning that God hated Esau. We should remember that Sovereign God has a plan when he chooses a person. God has the right to do what he desires. We may not understand it now.
Apostle Paul emphatically denies that God is not unjust. He cites God’s mercy to prove that God is not unjust. Nobody can earn God’s mercy by works. We “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom.3:23), But the God of grace is merciful with us and justified us to receive his salvation through Jesus Christ. God’s mercies remind us that he is righteous and loving.
Application: The God I worship is Sovereign over everything. He never does anything unfair. When I do not understand certain things, instead of doubting God, I should try to see the broad picture of God that includes all. God loves all, and his salvation is available to every person. God’s salvation cannot be achieved by human efforts. The Bible reminds me, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast (Eph.2:8,9).
Prayer: Righteous God, thank you for your mercies on my life. I deserve nothing to receive your love and compassion. Sovereign God, open my eyes to see your works. Father God, help me always love and trust you in all things. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 229
Scripture: Romans 10: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Observation: “Jesus is Lord” is the shortest and the earliest creed of the church. When a person confesses “Jesus is Lord,” he accepts Jesus’ human and divine nature, which was the foundation of the Apostle’s preaching in the Early Church. To receive the salvation of God, one needs to believe Jesus in his heart and confess his faith. It is an outward expression of inward faith. It should come from our hearts when we confess or speak about our faith in Jesus Christ. In the early Church, Christians publicly confessed their faith during baptism.
In Matthew 10:32,33, Jesus encourages us to acknowledge him before people. However, there are countries and opposing environments where Christians cannot openly profess their faith. They need our prayers. On the other hand, some people do not want to disclose their Christian faith for social and selfish reasons. A Christian leader says that such so-called secret believers become scared of society and eventually lose their faith in Jesus. There should be a correlation between what we believe about Jesus in our hearts and what we confess about him publicly.
We must be honest in confessing and practicing our faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 Cor.12:3, Apostle Paul says, “No one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.” When we confess, “Jesus is Lord,” we say that we are witnesses to his death and resurrection. Do we allow Jesus to be the Lord over every part of our lives?
Application: Jesus is the Lord of my life. It is by faith I am justified, not by works. I receive God’s salvation by confessing my faith in him. I should not hesitate to acknowledge and express my faith in Jesus Christ. The name of Jesus is above every name. Every tongue shall confess Jesus Christ is the Lord. I am a witness to Jesus.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for your life and sacrifice that opened the way for my salvation. Help me to exalt your name in my life and confess my faith in you. Oh, Holy Spirit, strengthen me to help people understand “Jesus is Lord” and help me to be a faithful witness for Jesus. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 230
*Scripture:* Romans 11: 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” 36 For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
*Observation:* In the last verses of Romans 11, we see Paul’s doxology to praise and worship God. In Romans chapters 1-11, Paul precisely explained the following: the truth that all (both the Jews and Gentiles) sinned against God and lost glory, the need for salvation, God’s plan for salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our union with Christ, deliverance from the law of sin, our blessedness as God’s children, and our righteousness with God that we receive by faith.
Before he moves further, he takes a break and worships God with a song of praise. Pondering God’s wisdom and knowledge, Paul first expresses his admiration. Then, he asks two rhetorical questions that affirm the greatness of God. God needs nothing from us; we cannot outdo God in giving. In Rom.11:36, Paul sums up his theological understanding: God is our Creator and sustainer of all things; everything belongs to God. Paul concludes Romans 11 with a word of praise and worship to God.
We must know that our beliefs about God and our worship of God are interconnected and inseparable; one cannot exist without the other. John Stott, one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century, says, “The true knowledge of God will always lead us to worship, as it did to Paul. Our place is on our faces before him in adoration.” A theology that does not lead us to worship God and our worship that has no theology are both dangerous. Our theological understanding helps us to know who we are before God and what he did for us. Eventually, it leads us to say, “To him be the glory forever!”
*Application:* I cannot fully understand the greatness of God’s wisdom and knowledge. All I can do when thinking about his judgments and paths is to stand in awe. He knows everything. I cannot outgive God. God has given me his very best for me. He is my maker. God saves me through his Son Jesus and sustains me with his powerful word. He is worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. I will always worship him.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for your love and everything you do for me. Thank you for your mercy and grace that saved me. Jesus, help me to live for God’s glory. “To him be the glory forever!” Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 231
Scripture: Acts 19: 1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”“John’s baptism,” they replied.
Observation: In Acts 19:2-3, we see two surprising and significant questions: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit,” and “What baptism did you receive?” It is surprising because these questions were posed to “some disciples.” It is significant because receiving the Holy Spirit and Baptism are essential in the Christian life. If somebody asks us to answer these two questions, our answers will reflect the beliefs of the Church we attend or our Church’s denomination. However, looking at the scriptural context may help us to understand why Paul asked these questions. As the quoted verses suggest, they knew John’s baptism and had no idea about the Holy Spirit. It seems they did not know about the Gospel of Jesus but had some idea about Jesus. They were disciples who knew only the baptism of John, like Apollos (Acts 18:24-26). They were not aware of the personhood of the Holy Spirit.
Then, Paul asked them about Baptism. Many Christians misunderstand or become confused when they read about the baptism in Jesus’ name. We may wonder whether the apostles’ practice of baptism was against the teaching of Jesus (Mt.28:19). Non-trinitarians claim that even the apostles gave baptism in Jesus’ name to prove their point. However, we must know that there are logical problems in believing such claims. In the book of Acts, “baptized in Jesus’ name” does not refer to a formula of baptism. Instead, it indicates the open confession of faith of the persons who were baptized.
In those days, Jews were familiar with different baptisms: John’s baptism, Gentiles’ baptism to accept Judaism, and baptism for the dead (1 Cor.15) are some of them. Therefore, when a person is baptized in Jesus’ name, it differentiates him/her from other baptisms and expresses their faith in Jesus Christ. They confirmed their commitment to follow Jesus Christ and his teachings through baptism. Significantly, they received the Holy Spirit after their baptism. Our baptism is a public expression of our faith and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. When we receive the Holy Spirit, he gives us the strength to follow Jesus and practice our faith in him. Jesus promised us about the Holy Spirit (John 14:16,17; 15:26; 16:13). We need Holy Spirit in our daily walk with Christ to lead a godly life. The question is, have we received the Holy Spirit? Let us not limit the power and works of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Application: Every day, I need to be filled with the Holy Spirit to walk in the truth of God. He reminds me of Jesus’ teachings and empowers me to live as a witness of God. God the Father has generously poured the Holy Spirit on me through Jesus Christ. To live a life that pleases God, I must walk by the Spirit.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, thank you for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Help me always to be filled with the Holy Spirit and live for your glory. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 208
Scripture: Psalm 27: 4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Observation: Our life needs are dynamic and keep changing every day. Something that we deem as precious today may become a nuisance tomorrow. Many things we craved to have in our lives may become undesirable once we received or achieved them. So we may not be able to give a precise answer concerning the one thing we want to ask the Lord. Our responses vary depending on our life circumstances. But David, in Psalm 27, confidently expresses the one thing he wants to ask the Lord. We do not know when David wrote Psalm 27. Verses 2, 3, 10, and 12 allude to some of the challenges David went through in his life. Regardless of the place, whether in the palace or the wilderness, we can be sure that David would ask the same thing from the Lord. His life testifies that he sought nothing else other than God (1 Sam. 13:14).
David wanted to live in the house of the Lord throughout his life. He was regular to seek God. David desired “to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,” not his enemies or opposing situations. David knew that the Lord is his light; the Lord’s light will remove all the darkness in his life. He found that the presence of the Lord or being in his presence and protection is a safer place from his enemies. Dwelling in the house of the Lord is indeed a great blessing (Ps.23:6; 26:8; 91:1). Assuredly, David would have had various responsibilities and works in his life. However, his top priority or heart’s longing was to be with the Lord and seek him.
Let us remember what Jesus told Martha: “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10: 41, 42). Our worries bring no benefits or changes. But God can change anything. When we seek God, he gives us the confidence to face our problems and enemies. Do we still ask for worldly things and babble many things in our prayers? (Mt.6:5-8). Let us seek God, God alone, in our lives.
Application: Whether facing challenging situations or living in abundance, I should remember that my ultimate need is God. No worldly things can give me the joy, peace, and security I enjoy in the Lord; God dispels my fears and fills my life with his light. God is my first need; I should seek the Lord regularly. I must seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness. My eyes should be on the Lord and the splendor of his holiness, not on my enemies.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the light you have given in my life. You deliver me from my enemies. My God, help me keep my eyes focused on you and seek you always. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 209
Scripture: Psalm 28: 9 Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Observation: Psalm 28 starts with David’s desperate prayer for deliverance from the deadly dangers that he faced in his life. David asks for God’s help and pleads for his mercy to save his life (v.1,2). However, in verses 6-7, David expresses his joy and confidence in God since God answered his “cry for mercy.” His cry for help turned out to be a cry of praise. When he explains why God responded to his prayers, he says, “My heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” A heart that trusts God rejoices and is filled with songs of praise. After receiving answers to his prayers, David now prays for his people (v.9). He asks God to be the shepherd of his people to save and bless them. God saves his people whenever they are in distress.
God is the savior and shepherd of his people (Ps.23; Is.40:11; 63:9). God protects and guides his people and meets all their needs. God leads his people like a shepherd leads his flock (Ps.23; 78:52; 80:1). God’s blessings are upon his people; He blesses their lives every day. When deadly diseases or dangers surround us, we can trust God. He is our strength and shield. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, provides deliverance from all the deadly dangers and blesses us (Jn.10:10,11).
Application: The Bible says, “Blessed is the people whose God is the Lord” (Ps.144:15). When I trust God, he saves and blesses me. “The Lord is my strength and my shield” (Ps.28:7). Since God is with me, “I will fear no evil” (Ps.23:4). He saves me “from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence”; He answers my prayer and blesses me with every blessing and eternal life (Ps.91:3,15, 16). I will trust God always.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your salvation and blessings. Jesus, I am a sheep in your flock; I want to follow you diligently. Carry me in your hands and protect me from all dangers today and forever. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 210
Scripture: Psalm 29:3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.
Observation: Canaanites believed Baal was a powerful god; they considered him the power present in the thunderstorm. In contrast, Psalm 29 illustrates that the power and glory of the Lord are visible and audible on this earth and invites the people to worship God. “The voice of the LORD” occurs seven times in Ps.29. When God spoke to Moses, people saw thunder and lightning and were afraid (Exo.19:16-19). Likewise, the Lord’s voice is often identified with thunder (1 Sam. 7:10; Job 37:4-5; Psalm 18:13; Isa. 30:30-31; Jn12:29). The voice of the Lord is all-powerful and has creative power (Gen.1, Ps.33:6-9). The Bible says, “By God’s word the heavens came into being, and the earth was formed out of the water and by water” (2 Peter 3:5). Although the voice of the LORD reveals the power and glory of God, its primary intention is to communicate and speak with humans and to invite them to worship the creator.
Does God speak today? In the past, God spoke through his prophets and in various ways. But now, he speaks through Jesus Christ. (Heb.1:1,2) We must listen to Jesus’ words (Mt. 17:5; Mk 9:7; Luke 9:35; Heb.12:25). Jesus is the Word of God (Jn.1:1; Rev.19:16). When we read the Bible, the Word of God and commune with him, Jesus speaks to us. In fact, he is willing to talk with us more than we desire to speak with him. Jesus often said, “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The Bible warns, “If only you would hear his voice, Do not harden your hearts” (Ps.95:8). Let us hear God’s words and put them into practice.
Application: When God comes to speak with me, he asks, “Where are you?” (Gen.3:9). I should not/cannot hide anything from God. I am “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Rom.6:11). Every creation, even the winds and the waves, obeys the words of Jesus. I must read and listen to the loving words of Jesus. He is the LORD.
Prayer: LORD, you are the living God. My God, thank you for your love. Your words are active and alive. Jesus, your words are full of the Spirit and life. Holy Spirit, help me to remember them everyday and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 211
Scripture: Esther 4: 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Observation: Haman’s wrath against all the Jews appears unreasonable and raises questions concerning the motives behind his evil scheme. Further, we do not know why Mordecai refused to respect Haman, for there was nothing against it in the Law of Moses. Mordecai and Haman’s ancestral names remind us of the long-standing tension between the Amalekites and the Israelites (Exodus 17:14-16; 1 Sam.15:7-9). Haman, the Agagite, perhaps wanted to take revenge against Mordecai, the Benjamite. Haman successfully persuaded the king in favor of his plan to annihilate all the Jews from the empire. Haman might have thought that nobody could stop his plan, which was against God’s redemption plan. Haman was utterly unaware of Esther’s Jewish origin and her connection with Mordecai.
At this time, Mordecai sent a message to Queen Esther to remind her responsibility to save her people and plead with the king for their lives. He said Esther’s royal position might be a divine providence to protect her people. Mordecai was sure that Esther should intervene for the Jews. Then Esther asked Mordecai to call all the Jews who lived in Susa to fast for her for three days. She also fasted with them with a determination, “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). Before Esther went to the king to intercede for her people, she joined with people’s sorrow in fasting and prayer (Esther 4:3). Esther must have understood her role to save her people during such a time as this. Joseph also had a similar experience (Gen. 45:7). It is not coincidental that we are in a particular place or position. When a crisis comes, with prayer and fasting, we should do all we can do. Then we can be sure that God will do the rest and will be glorified through us. God, who averted the evil plans of Haman, is faithful to protect his people from all the dangers and diseases even today. Trusting God, we need to intercede for our people and start doing something for them. We should not remain silent.
Application: God has a call and purpose for my life. Even before a threat comes against God’s people or me, God knows them and prepares his provision accordingly well in advance. I can trust God during challenging times and pray for his help. When I act on faith in God’s power, He does great things.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for reminding me to pray for people in dire need and suffering. Lord, help me to intercede for them in prayer and fasting and remain in you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 212
Scripture: Psalm 31: 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you.
Observation: When a person's life is full of problems, people usually stay away from such persons and offer them no help to come out of their distressing situation. But, one's wealth and position attract many friends. David faced many enemies, problems, and slanders throughout his life and was often isolated/abandoned by friends. His fears were genuine. Yet, David put his trust and hope in God; he surrendered his life in God's hand. When David looked at God instead of giving space to his fears, he was able to see what the Lord had prepared and stored for him. They are indescribable!
God never wrings his hands, wondering how to deal with the troublesome situation as we do in such times. He is the all-knowing God; he has the solution for man's every problem. He has already stored all the good things for his beloved children. So when we face a problem or hostility, we can focus on God, who has answers for all our problems. God reveals his goodness when we require it; He bestows his abundant good things upon us to make others understand his grace. However, we should know that God does not give all the goodness he stored for us all at once. He showers his blessings on our lives and saves us from our depression and distress according to our needs. "As it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"—the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit" (1 Cor.2:9-10). We need not worry about anything else when we trust God.
Application: When I trust God and take refuge in him, I can be sure of his goodness, which enables me to face and overcome my problems. People may go away from me and consider me an unwanted person. However, God never does it. His grace saves me and makes me strong in the Lord. Whenever I face a problem or need, I can be confident about God's providence to handle/overcome the situation. He has already stored up his goodness for me. I need not fear about my life and future.
Prayer: How great you are, my God! There is no one like you. Lord Jesus, help me to look to you for help and wisdom. Holy Spirit, open my eyes to see what God has stored for me; help me be strong in the Lord. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 213
Scripture: Job 1: 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." 9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied.
Observation: The book of Job is the oldest book of the Old Testament. Though there is no detail of authorship of the book of Job, scholars consider it might have been written during or before the time of Abraham. Many Christians are afraid of or reluctant to read the book of Job due to the sudden and disastrous events that happened to Job. (I encourage everyone to read the book of Job to understand biblical wisdom on various issues we face today). Although Job lived an exemplary godly life that every human wants to have, it is a question for many people, why did God allow Satan to inflict harm in Job's life? In Job 1:8, we see how God applauds Job. However, Satan, who accuses godly people before our God day and night, blamed Job. He charged that Job fears God for selfish reasons. Satan either entices people to sin against God or blames them that their faith in God for having selfish motives. However, Job's faith in God was unwavering even after he lost everything he had. It proved that Satan's cynical accusation was false and that Job's righteousness was genuine.
The life of Job reminds us that we can trust God even when the worst of the worst things happen to us. It doesn't mean that we all could experience such a catastrophe in our lives. Instead, It implies that everything, even Satan, is under God's control. We may not immediately know why God allows harmful things in our lives. We will know God's purposes when we come out of such difficult times. Even when tempted to abandon his integrity and curse God, "Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing." Thousands of years ago, if Job could remain firm in his faith in God, how much stronger can we be for the Lord? As Paul says, "Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Rom.8:18). No human helped Job during his sufferings. But, we have Jesus who is able to help us in our sufferings and temptations (Heb.2:18). God's wisdom will be revealed through our lives in HIS time.
Application: I should not seek God for selfish reasons or material blessings. Instead, my relationship with God should be based on Love. I loved him because he first loved me (1 Jn.4:19). Whatever happens to me, I will not renounce my faith and trust in God. Standing firm in the faith, I will resist the devil (1 Peter 5:9). "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial" (James 1:12). God is the greatest blessing for those who love him.
Prayer: Father God, I praise you for all things are under your control. I am under your protection. Satan cannot touch me, without your permission. Lord Jesus, give me your strength to remain strong in my faith when facing trials and temptations. Help me to stand against the devil's schemes and use the sword of the Spirit correctly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 214
Scripture: Psalm 33: 18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, 19 to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.
Observation: History tells us a lot about the fall of many great emperors, kingdoms, and leaders, who had vast armies, wealth, and people strength. They all would have thought that nobody could win or shake their power during the peak of their lives and fame. Their trust in their prowess, army, and wealth did not help them in the disasters of their lives. Many of them died without any help. As Ps.33:16-17 says, worldly strengths and power are "vain." They cannot help us in times of trouble. "But the eyes of the Lord" are on god-fearing people to give them the strength for deliverance and providence for their needs. God's unfailing love is the greatest hope for us during times of need.
During widespread disasters and famine, people may look here and there to find hope or help when they fight for their lives and crave food. When we who believe in God find ourselves in such situations, we can put our hope in God's unfailing love. As we read here, HIS eyes are on us. God knows our needs and struggles; He will never forsake us. For his love is unchanging and unfailing love. Our Lord Jesus overcame death and is alive even today. The Bible encourages us to put our hope in God during difficult times. Because the Lord's eyes are on us, he will answer our prayers and guide us to cross the dark valleys of our lives (Ps.34:15, 1 Pet.3:12). Remember: God never promised that we would have a life free from worries and wants. But, he has promised his help to deliver us from death and provide what we need during our testing times. So, we can put our hope in him. "We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield" (Ps.33:20).
Application: The Lord sees me and knows my needs. My human strength and worldly wealth cannot always save me from troubles. When I trust my earthly things, it turns my attention away from the LORD and causes more problems. On the other hand, when I fear God and put my trust in his unfailing love, I find answers to my prayers and a solution to my pressing needs. My eyes and hope should always be on Jesus.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your loving eyes that see me. I praise you for knowing my every need and how to deal with it. God, help me to put my trust and faith in you today and always.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 215
Scripture: Acts 24: 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Observation: Many people admire the teachings of Jesus Christ and the simplicity of the Gospel. However, many (including many Christians) want to hear only messages that soothe their ears and are pleasant to their hearts. People generally do not like to hear a message that confronts them. Here, we see a Roman governor Felix, “who was well acquainted with the Way” (Christians were first called people belonging to the Way), met Paul with his Jewish wife to hear more about the faith in Christ Jesus. In those days, when rulers met philosophers and great teachers in private to clarify their doubts, they would try to please the rulers to gain their confidence or rewards. They usually would not say anything against the rulers, fearing dire consequences. However, Paul was fearless in preaching the Gospel and talked about the immediate need of Felix and Drusilla—the knowledge about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. We do not know why Paul particularly emphasized these three things. Nevertheless, history affirms that Paul’s choice of topics was right.
Notice Felix’s response to the message: He was afraid and tried to move Paul away from him. Paul’s talk must have touched his conscience and made him aware of the sins he committed. With no interest in hearing further and accepting the message, he said, “That’s enough.” When people hear something they don’t like, they immediately respond, “That’s enough.” Felix was unwilling to accept the message Paul preached to him but hoped to receive a bribe from Paul and talk with him “frequently,” intending to obtain money (illegally). Before he found a convenient time to hear the Gospel from Paul in the next two years, he was removed from his office.
People who postpone their decision to accept Christ do not find a convenient time again to confess Jesus is the Lord. Paul could have tried to please the governor and arranged a sum of money, thinking he could preach to more people if he came out of prison. Paul chose to be faithful to Jesus, who called him to preach the Gospel. It gave him more opportunities to speak about the Lord in royal places. Felix was not ready to accept the Way of Jesus and said excuses. Are we prepared to be faithful to live for Christ and preach the Gospel? We must be prepared to meet our God.
Application: Messages related to righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come are relevant to all ages. People, especially rulers, think that whatever they do is right and never want to be questioned by others. I should not be like them. My “righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Is.64:6). I am justified by faith in Jesus Christ. Christ is my righteousness. Self-control is a part of the fruit of the Spirit. I belong to Christ Jesus; I have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal.5:22-24). I am accountable to God. My life does not end in this world. Christ called me for eternal life. I must be ready to stand before God.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the Gospel that sets people free from the bondage of sin. Lord, give me the heart to accept and follow your word without any delay. Help me to bear the fruit of the Spirit in my life every day. Strengthen me to preach the Gospel without fear and prepare people to meet you, oh my God! Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 216
Scripture: Psalm 35: 28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.
Observation: Psalm 35 is one of the “Imprecatory Psalms” in the book of Psalms. In Psalm 35, David pleads to God to defend him from those who attack him without reason. The verses in the psalm suggest that David may have written this psalm when Saul chased to kill him. David tells about the types of attacks that he faced from those who fought against him: physical attack (v.1-10), personal attack (v.11-18), and verbal attack (false accusations, v.19-29). These unmotivated attacks caused an illness (v.13) and distress (v.26) in David’s life. Instead of retaliating against the malicious attacks, David invokes God to give due justice to the attackers. At the end of each of his appeals, David vows to praise God (v.9,18, 28). Each time David pleads to God concerning his internal and external struggles and troubles, he ends with a strong emphasis on praising God. Instead of giving answers to the false accusations against him, David wants to speak of God’s righteousness and praise him all day long.
What will be our reaction or response if we are mistreated or falsely accused without cause? We may want to prove our innocence or give a detailed explanation to prove the accusations are wrong. However, it is difficult for us to handle all the issues and respond to each accusation we face in our lives. We need to let God fight our battles and defend us instead of trying to do something to prove or defend ourselves. Like David, we need to focus on God and praise him in times of our needs, problems, and worries. When we praise and worship God, we understand that our God is bigger than any of the problems we may face in our lives.
Application: When I face false accusations and unmotivated attacks that affect my life, I must go to God and ask him to defend me and do justice. I should not waste my energy giving explanations or taking revenge against those who are against me. Instead of reacting to the problems I face, I need to seek God and his righteousness. Speaking and thinking about all the false accusations or attacks make me tired. But, praising God refreshes my soul and gives me the strength to stand firm for the Lord. I can praise the Lord all day long.
Prayer: Father God, you are my savior; you are the defender of the weak. I praise you for all the wonderful works you have done in my life so far. Lord Jesus, when others hate me without reason, help me to remember you and your words. My God, you bless my enemies. Give your Spirit to praise you all day long. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 217
Pray, preach, and persuade people to accept Christ
Read: Job 9,10; Psalm 36; Acts 26
Scripture: Acts 26: 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
Observation: In Acts 26, when Paul shared his testimony and ministry call and explained Jesus was the Messiah, he received two different responses—the Roman Governor Festus thought Paul became insane. King Agrippa thought Paul was trying to persuade him to accept Christ. Unlike the previous governor Felix who knew about the Christian faith, Festus did not know much about the belief in Jesus Christ. So, Paul told him about the historicity of Jesus’ death and resurrection. On the other hand, as a Jew, King Agrippa would have been aware of the messianic prophecies and the events related to the life of Jesus. Paul’s question to Agrippa was significant. He did not ask Agrippa whether he believed Jesus or not. Paul asked a question related to fundamental Jewish belief in prophets. Agrippa was aware that it was not simply a yes or no question. If he said yes, he should have believed in Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies. Agrippa would have faced the Jews’ wrath if he had said no. So Agrippa avoided such a situation by saying he could not become a Christian “in such a short time.” It doesn’t mean that Agrippa wanted to become a Christian, but he needed more time, or it was merely an excuse. Of course, nobody would accept Jesus Christ just because someone preached or persuaded them about believing Christ.
Paul’s response to King Agrippa tells us a lot about Paul’s passion for souls. Further, it reminds us to pray for all people to become followers of Christ, preach the Gospel, and persuade them to accept Jesus Christ. When we do this, we can confidently say that our faith in Jesus Christ is based on historical events, not fables.
Application: My faith in Jesus Christ is not built on “cleverly devised stories.” Jesus’ life, death, and crucifixion are well-attested events in history. I should use my time to help others to know about Jesus. I need to pray for all the people who have not yet heard of Jesus. Then, I should preach the Gospel and invite or persuade them to accept Lord Jesus. I cannot/should not compel anyone to become Christian. My life should be a testimony for others to know Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to save me. I pray for “all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Jesus, strengthen me to do my part in sharing the Gospel with all people. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 218
Scripture: Acts 27: 10 “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” 11 But the Centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
Observation: Acts 27 gives us a detailed account of the struggles of all those on the ship when they faced severe storms as Paul was taken to Rome. The journey was difficult right from the start. It was not an ideal time for long trips. So, from his extensive voyage experience and godly wisdom, Paul advised Julius and his men against their travel plans. However, he did not listen to Paul. Instead, he accepted the ship’s owner’s and the pilot’s suggestion to move from Fair Havens to Phoenix to stay safe during the winter. They faced severe winds soon after they departed to Phoenix, a harbor port 40 miles away from Fair Haven. Afterward, until they reached the island of Malta, the ship was not in their control; the wind drove them. For fourteen days, they did not eat properly. To save their lives and the ship during the terrible storm, they were to throw the cargo overboard, many tools, and even the grains. They “gave up all hope of being saved” (v.20). When the second time Paul spoke, They all listened to Paul’s words and were encouraged. They could have avoided all the tragedies if they had listened to him earlier(v.21). At last, all of their lives were spared from the hopeless situation owing to Paul’s prayer. (v.24).
The Centurion may have thought that the pilot and the Ship’s owner would know more about the wind movements and voyage than Paul. Likewise, many believe that worldly experts or experienced ones can navigate any storm and handle every situation. They fail to see that God still has control over every windy and dangerous situation. However, God saves them when they acknowledge His sovereignty and follow his instructions. Modern technologies and scientists cannot know the future. But God knows everything. He can speak to us even when we pass through severe storms in our lives and can offer us his guidance. We must listen to God and obey his instructions. The sooner we follow God, the more we can avoid many struggles in our lives and save ourselves from disasters.
Application: God, who controls the waves and the winds, sometimes may allow me to sail through severe storms of life. At such times, I must continue my prayer life with God and should pray for all people. I should be grateful to God for his provision to meet my needs during such times. When I listen to God’s word, he calms my heart and gives me His peace. There is a dawn after every darkness. I can trust God; His grace will lead me home.
Prayer: Sovereign God, thank you for your guidance and care for my life. Lord, help me to listen to your words and obey your will in all situations. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 219
Scripture: Acts 28: 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!
Observation: After reading all the difficulties of the voyage to Rome when Paul was taken to Rome, we expect that the Lord would do great things in Rome. Luke instills a picture of Paul standing before Caesar in three chapters (Acts. 25-27). But in Acts 28, only 16 verses say about Paul’s ministry in Rome. Out of 16, the last two verses of Acts hint about what Paul did during the two years in Rome, and the remaining 14 verses tell us of his interaction with the Jews. Acts 28:30-31 does not say anything about whether he stood before Caesar and his ministry to the Gentiles. How shall we know the purpose of the Lord who brought Paul to Rome?
Although the book of Acts does not say what Paul did after reaching Rome, Paul’s epistles testify what the Lord did through him in Rome and how his ministry encouraged the churches in other places. Paul’s four epistles—Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians—were written during the two years. They say more about what the Lord accomplished through Paul. He writes, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel,” and “most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear” (Phil.1:12-14). Phil.4:22 suggests that there were Christians from even “Caesar’s household.” Colossians 4:10-11 says that Paul was not alone but with his fellow workers. In his last epistle from Rome, Paul says, “The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it” (2 Timothy 4:17). Although he was a prisoner in Rome, his imprisonment helped advance the Gospel, and many were encouraged to preach the Gospel boldly and without fear. Nothing can stop the Gospel work.
Our Lord Jesus told his disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The Church began its Gospel ministry from Jerusalem and spread it to other places from the Pentecost day onwards so that all may hear the Gospel of Jesus. The Church’s ministry did not end with Acts 28. “With all boldness and without hindrance,” the Church continues to preach the Gospel even today. Like the Lord worked with his disciples and confirmed his word, he works with us even today. Until all people hear the Gospel, there will be no end to the book of Acts.
Application: I should preach the Gospel “with all boldness and without hindrance!” As a disciple of Jesus, I am responsible for continuing the Lord's work and spreading the Gospel. I must live a worthy life to say, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil.1:21).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the Holy Spirit who anoints me to be your witness. Jesus, fill me with your Spirit and help me to use my time wisely to spread the Gospel message of the Kingdom of God everywhere. May your good Spirit lead me in your way and enable me to do your will. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 220
Scripture: Romans 1: 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Observation: Paul’s epistle to Rome systematically explains Christian doctrines and theology. Many bible experts consider Romans 1:16,17 as Paul’s central theme or thesis statement for the whole epistle. This very passage played a vital role in the transformation of Martin Luther, who led the Reformation movement. From the first century onwards, the Gospel of Jesus Christ greatly impacted the world and dramatically changed men’s and women’s lives. The Gospel is not just the name of a book or the title of a speech. As Paul says here, “it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” The Gospel is synonymous with the person of Jesus Christ. Believing a person who was killed by a Roman crucifixion might have been considered shameful. However, Paul sees the power of the Gospel that can save everyone who believes. The Gospel is available to all and can save anyone who believes in Jesus. In other words, everyone needs salvation. They can be saved only by the power of the Gospel. One may wonder why every person needs the salvation of God. As Paul explains, all became sinners by not worshipping the Creator.
Further, the Gospel reveals the righteousness of God that saves a sinner from judgment. Those who believe in the Gospel will receive God’s righteousness and are declared righteous. This righteousness comes from the Lord and is received by faith alone. It cannot be earned by any other means. By faith, we receive God’s righteousness and are made righteous in the sight of God. “The righteous will live by faith.” A person may have spent years believing vain things and gained nothing. However, when s/he believes the Gospel or the person of Jesus Christ, they receive life and salvation by faith. History tells us scores of people who received transformation in their lives after they believed in Jesus Christ. Jesus already paid the price for this righteousness. We receive it by faith and are saved by his grace. How do we live?
Application: In any circumstance, I should be a witness to the Gospel with all boldness. I may be weak in various ways. But the Gospel is powerful to save me and can make my relationship with God right. My self-righteousness cannot save me, but God saves me and declares me righteous when I believe in the Gospel. I must live in God’s righteousness. As a child of God, I will live by faith.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the Gospel that displays your salvific power in the world. Jesus, thank you for the righteousness you earned for me through your sacrificial life. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to preach the Gospel boldly and help me to live by faith. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 221
Scripture: Psalm 40: 1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.
Observation: In Psalm 40, we see David’s prayer for help when troubles without count surrounded him (v.12). As he “waited patiently for the Lord,” he remembers all the answers and deliverances God has given him in the past. We do not know when David wrote this psalm. But we do know that David went through a lot of overwhelming problems in his life. Standing in a slimy clay pit is always tricky and dangerous as it would have quicksand at the bottom. In verse 2, David metaphorically explains how the Lord saved and gave him the strength to overcome his difficult moments when he may have struggled even to stand. When the Lord protects a person, he places him/her on a rock, a firm place to stand. Then, David expresses his hope that his song of praise will make others have faith and trust in God. Of course, The number of troubles surrounding him was numerous; they affected his vision and heart (v.12). But David first recalls God’s uncountable and unspeakable wonders (v.5) before he asks for God’s help. David encountered many troubles and enemies. However, God is his helper and deliverer. David praised God and sang new songs when he faced troubles and struggles. He was not looking at his problems, but he waited on God and remembered God’s mercies in the past as he prayed for God’s help.
When we need urgent help or face an unexpected problem, we become restless to wait on God. We may ask, “Why me, God?” We sometimes forget how the Lord helped us and led us miraculously. We would become distressed and weak by worrying and always looking at our problems. It will affect our health. When we remember how God’s helped us overcome similar or severe problems in the past, we find the strength to face our present situation. Our trust in God never goes in vain. He is our helper and deliverer. God answers our every prayer.
Application: When I encounter many struggles that weaken my legs, I need to recall God’s past help and deliverance and remind myself that this too will pass soon. God will lift me from the miry clay where I struggle to stand. He strengthens me to stand on a firm rock. Jesus is the Rock. Every trouble I face is a time to sing a new song to praise God. So I can wait patiently for the Lord to help me.
Prayer: My God, thank you for all the wonders you have done in my life. Jesus, thank you for being the rock where I stand. Holy Spirit, help me patiently wait for the Lord today and every day. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 222
My redeemer lives - The living hope for the future
Read: Job 19,20; Psalm 41; Romans 3
Scripture: Job 19: 25 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. 26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; 27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
Observation: Human suffering raises many questions concerning God and human society. Many people struggle to understand why people suffer, especially good people or innocent ones. Human response to suffering varies from person to person, depending on who goes through suffering. When Job was tested, his friends Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite came to comfort him. They recognized Job’s suffering was great. However, after seven days in silence, Job’s friends, one after another, started to accuse him; they said Job needed to repent from his sin. Job thought God was angry with him for reasons unknown to him. So, he wanted to argue with God. His friends’ accusations made Job tired. They were “worthless physicians” and “miserable comforters” to Job (Job.13:4; 16:2). Despite his friends’ allegations against him and his inability to understand why it had happened to him, Job never failed to speak about his faith and hope in God. Of course, he expressed his despair as well.
In Chapter 16, we see Job’s hope about his friend in heaven, who is his advocate, intercessor, and witness, the one who will plead with God “as a man pleads for his friend” (Job.16:19-21). In Job 19:25, we see Job’s bold confession of his faith and future hope. It implies that God is his redeemer. Notice the emphasis on the first-person language of the text in verse 27. Job says of his hope that God will defend him against all the false accusations. He was passionate about seeing it. We may not be able to understand our present crises. However, we have a living hope in Christ. Jesus Christ is our redeemer. He is our advocate who intercedes for us. The Bible says, “Let us hold firmly to the faith we profess…Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb.4:14,16).
Application: Thousands of years ago, Job was able to see his redeemer. He was very confident about his faith and hope. Against all the odds, he openly confessed his faith and expressed his heart’s longing to see God the redeemer. Seeing God with the eyes of faith helped Job to endure the suffering patiently. If I go through any suffering in my life, I need to keep my eyes on God, though I do not understand why it happened to me. When I see God, I receive the strength to overcome my present struggles and the hope for the future. My “present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed” (Rom.8:18). Do I see God as my redeemer?
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the eternal hope you have given me. Oh, my redeemer Jesus, you are my hope, the hope of glory. Lord, help me to be confident about the future you have for me and confess it boldly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 223
Scripture: Romans 4: 23 The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, 24 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Observation: Romans chapter 4 is Paul’s commentary to Gen.15:6, in which he explains Abraham was not justified by his works or by law but by faith. “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Abraham became the father of all who believe in God—the father of faithful ones. We are called to follow the footsteps of the faith of Abraham. Romans 4:18-22 explains how Abraham believed when there was no hope for him and why God considered Abraham’s faith unique. Abraham was weak, but he was not weak in faith. Abraham’s faith was not blind faith; it was built upon his belief in God’s power to do what he promised. As John Stott says, “Faith is a reasoning trust. There can be no believing without thinking.” From verse 23 onwards, Paul writes that Abraham’s experience was written for all, like the rest of the Scripture. We are called to follow the faith example of Abraham. When we believe that God raised Jesus from the dead, God will credit righteousness to us, like he justified Abraham for his faith.
Nowadays, people preach and emphasize different types of faith. Some Christians think faith is the key to material blessings. Some people believe in Jesus Christ but do not believe in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. In verse 25, we see what we need to believe about Jesus—Jesus died for our sins, and God raised him from the dead for our justification. We have an abundance of evidence to support Jesus’ resurrection. So we cannot say any excuses. Believing in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is not irrational. Our faith in Jesus Christ is not built on fables. Above all, our faith in God benefits us. We are justified by our faith in Jesus Christ.
Application: Abraham believed in God against all hope. God has given me the Bible to read and believe his words. I have no reason to doubt God. He sees my faith. I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins and “was raised to life” for my justification.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace to save us through the righteousness that comes by faith. Holy Spirit, thank you for clarifying all my doubts about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Help me to proclaim my faith in the risen Lord Jesus Christ every day and everywhere. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 224
Scripture: Romans 5: 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has been given us.
Observation: The words rejoicing and suffering, in terms of meaning, are opposite to each other. Rejoicing in suffering may appear absurd and insane. Many Christians try to accept “rejoicing in suffering” as a Christian concept, whether they believe it or not. One may ask, “how is it possible?”, “If it is true that Christ suffered for me, why should I suffer?” Romans 5 explains the benefits of being justified by faith. Our justification enables us to have peace with God and gives us access to stand in grace. It is not an emotional feeling but something we can experience in our new relationship with God. Before verse 3, Paul writes about rejoicing “in the hope of the glory of God.” This hope helps us to understand the purpose of our creation. Therefore, even our present sufferings might have God’s purpose for our lives. If we worry, we may not understand the purpose of why God allows suffering in our lives.
Rejoicing in our sufferings starts the process of experiencing the hope we have in Christ to know and learn godly wisdom. The sufferings we endure teach and mold us to become mature people for the purpose God has called us to be. So, by rejoicing in our sufferings, we can enjoy every moment of the process that helps us grow spiritually. Worldly hope may fail and disappoint us. Our hope in Christ will never put us in shame because we have Holy Spirit with us. He has filled our hearts with God’s love. As Christians, the sufferings we may face cannot affect our joy in the Lord. Rejoicing in suffering is apostolic teaching and benefits us greatly (James 1:2-5; 1 Peter 4:12-16).
Application: Since I am justified by faith, I have peace with God through Jesus Christ. My faith has given me the access to stand in the grace of God. NOTHING can affect my relationship with God. I have peace within my heart. So, I do not worry about worldly sufferings. By rejoicing in my sufferings, I allow God to do his work in and through my life.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the grace, love, and peace you have given me. It reminds me that the triune God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—is always with me. So, I can rejoice all the time, even in my sufferings. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion🗓️
Day – 225
Scripture: Romans 6: 11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.
Observation: Many Christians struggle to overcome the sinful temptations or thoughts they face daily. Some Christians think it is ok to sin, for God knows our weaknesses; He is gracious to forgive our sins. Paul questions such thoughts and asks, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” (Rom.6:1). He says a Christian who identified himself/herself with Jesus’ death and resurrection through baptism can no longer be a slave to sin. Paul suggests three steps for a victorious Christian life against sin.
The first step to victory over sin is to count ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God.” We must remind ourselves that when we first accept Jesus Christ, our old self “was crucified” with him (v.6,11). The second step is our refusal against sin to control our bodies. We must resist sin and evil desires. We should not give even a foothold to sin so that it may creep into our lives and dominate us (Eph.4:27). The third and final step to a victorious life over sin is to offer ourselves to God. We must not allow our body parts to be instruments or weapons of wickedness. Instead, we need to offer each part of our body to God “as instruments of righteousness” (v.13).
One may ask: to what extent a person could experience victory over sin? It depends on to what extent s/he applies these three steps in their life. Paul reminds us, “He (Jesus Christ) died to sin once and for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.” “In the same way,” we can live victorious lives against sin. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are “set free from sin” and are called to obey God and live under grace.
Application: I am not a slave to sin. I am saved by Christ, who sets me free from sin. I identify myself with Christ’s death and resurrection. My body parts are instruments of righteousness, not wickedness. To enjoy the new life God has given me, I should follow the three biblical instructions to overcome sin and live under grace. It is not something I must do only on the day I accept Jesus; I need to follow it daily.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your grace and the new life in Jesus Christ. Lord, I offer my life to you; use my body parts as instruments of righteousness. Jesus, help me to live holy for your glory. Amen.
Scripture: Romans 7: 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature [Or in the flesh] a slave to the law of sin.
Observation: Many Christians consider that Romans 7 reveals their inner struggles to live holy against their sinful nature. In Romans 7:21-25, Paul describes the dual aspect of our internal struggles and thoughts in four different ways: good vs. evil (v.21), God’s law vs. law of sin (v.22,23), a cry of self-pity vs. a joy of deliverance (v.24,25), and slavery to God’s law vs. slavery to the law of sin (v.25). Paul’s description of a believer’s inner struggles and wretchedness shows that a person cannot free himself/herself. It needs a saviour. Paul expresses his despair, depression, disappointment, and failures when he sees only himself. However, immediately after he began to see Jesus, Paul had something to thank God. Paul found the answer to his wretchedness. He finds that God is his deliverer.
We all want to live a life that pleases God. We have a passion for serving God faithfully. However, we cannot achieve it through our self-righteousness, the law, and our own efforts. Only through Jesus Christ can we be delivered from the sinful nature of our bodies. We can either always look at ourselves and fail to live a godly life or set our eyes on Jesus to experience his joy and deliverance from sin. The choice is ours!
Application: I can live a victorious Christian life only through Jesus Christ. He is the answer to all my inner struggles; Jesus delivers me from the slavery of sin. “Salvation is found in no one else” (Acts.4:12). I can experience true freedom only through Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the deliverance and salvation you have given me through Jesus. Holy Spirit, help me fix my eyes on Jesus to experience the joy of spiritual freedom that delivers me from all forms of slavery. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 227
Scripture: Romans 8: 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba,[Aramaic for father] Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
Observation: Across the world, childless couples adopt kids for various reasons, such as to become parents (to be a father or mother to a child), to show love and be loved, to perpetuate their family name and legacy, to overcome infertility, and for their own personal reasons. Whatever the reason, an adopted child is entitled to inherit the estate of its adopted parents and have equal rights, just like every legal heir. Nobody can be compelled to adopt a child. It is the choice of a couple to choose a child to become theirs.
Romans 8 says that the Spirit, who lives within us and leads us, makes us children of God. The law of the Spirit liberates us from the law of sin and death that enslaves us (v.2). The Spirit we received never enslaves but enables us to call God “Abba Father.” Through adoption, we receive a unique and intimate relationship with God. The Spirit testifies to our loving relationship with God. No other religion offers such a special privilege to a believer to call God almighty “Abba, Father.” Our relationship with God is not made of fear but love.
How a child loves/obeys/serves his/her parent differs from how an enslaved person serves his/her master. A child is motivated by love to honor his/her parent. However, a slave works out of the fear of punishment or with an expectation of a reward. We have a unique relationship with him. God is not biased in choosing his children. All “who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God” (Rom.8:14). How do we express our love to God the Father?
Application: I rejoice in my relationship with God the Father. I am a child of God. I am no longer a slave to sin or fear. When I pray, when I need help, and when I want to express my love, I can call God “Abba, Father.” I need not fear and worry about anything. I have the responsibility to fulfill the will/desire of God. Holy Spirit enables me to do everything for God’s glory.
Prayer: Abba, thank you for your love that embraces me. I can experience your love every day. Your love dispels all fear and gives me unspeakable joy and freedom from slavery. Father God, whatever my situation may be, I am your child; help me to realize it today and live accordingly. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 228
Scripture: Romans 9: 13 Just as it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Observation: Many critics of the Bible question God and ask, “Why did God hate Esau?” Some Christians also think it is difficult to understand and explain Romans 9:13. A woman once said to Spurgeon, “I cannot understand why God should say that He hated Esau.” “That,” Spurgeon replied, “is not my difficulty, madam. My trouble is to understand how God could love Jacob!” Still, some may ask how the God of love could hate an unborn child. Was God unjust to Esau?
Before we answer this question, we should know that God’s actions are not arbitrary. In Matthew 6:24, 10:37, Luke 14:26, and John 12:25, Jesus speaks of loving him first before we love our family and anything else. So, we cannot take the literal meaning that God hated Esau. We should remember that Sovereign God has a plan when he chooses a person. God has the right to do what he desires. We may not understand it now.
Apostle Paul emphatically denies that God is not unjust. He cites God’s mercy to prove that God is not unjust. Nobody can earn God’s mercy by works. We “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom.3:23), But the God of grace is merciful with us and justified us to receive his salvation through Jesus Christ. God’s mercies remind us that he is righteous and loving.
Application: The God I worship is Sovereign over everything. He never does anything unfair. When I do not understand certain things, instead of doubting God, I should try to see the broad picture of God that includes all. God loves all, and his salvation is available to every person. God’s salvation cannot be achieved by human efforts. The Bible reminds me, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast (Eph.2:8,9).
Prayer: Righteous God, thank you for your mercies on my life. I deserve nothing to receive your love and compassion. Sovereign God, open my eyes to see your works. Father God, help me always love and trust you in all things. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 229
Scripture: Romans 10: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Observation: “Jesus is Lord” is the shortest and the earliest creed of the church. When a person confesses “Jesus is Lord,” he accepts Jesus’ human and divine nature, which was the foundation of the Apostle’s preaching in the Early Church. To receive the salvation of God, one needs to believe Jesus in his heart and confess his faith. It is an outward expression of inward faith. It should come from our hearts when we confess or speak about our faith in Jesus Christ. In the early Church, Christians publicly confessed their faith during baptism.
In Matthew 10:32,33, Jesus encourages us to acknowledge him before people. However, there are countries and opposing environments where Christians cannot openly profess their faith. They need our prayers. On the other hand, some people do not want to disclose their Christian faith for social and selfish reasons. A Christian leader says that such so-called secret believers become scared of society and eventually lose their faith in Jesus. There should be a correlation between what we believe about Jesus in our hearts and what we confess about him publicly.
We must be honest in confessing and practicing our faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 Cor.12:3, Apostle Paul says, “No one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.” When we confess, “Jesus is Lord,” we say that we are witnesses to his death and resurrection. Do we allow Jesus to be the Lord over every part of our lives?
Application: Jesus is the Lord of my life. It is by faith I am justified, not by works. I receive God’s salvation by confessing my faith in him. I should not hesitate to acknowledge and express my faith in Jesus Christ. The name of Jesus is above every name. Every tongue shall confess Jesus Christ is the Lord. I am a witness to Jesus.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for your life and sacrifice that opened the way for my salvation. Help me to exalt your name in my life and confess my faith in you. Oh, Holy Spirit, strengthen me to help people understand “Jesus is Lord” and help me to be a faithful witness for Jesus. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 230
*Scripture:* Romans 11: 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” 36 For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
*Observation:* In the last verses of Romans 11, we see Paul’s doxology to praise and worship God. In Romans chapters 1-11, Paul precisely explained the following: the truth that all (both the Jews and Gentiles) sinned against God and lost glory, the need for salvation, God’s plan for salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our union with Christ, deliverance from the law of sin, our blessedness as God’s children, and our righteousness with God that we receive by faith.
Before he moves further, he takes a break and worships God with a song of praise. Pondering God’s wisdom and knowledge, Paul first expresses his admiration. Then, he asks two rhetorical questions that affirm the greatness of God. God needs nothing from us; we cannot outdo God in giving. In Rom.11:36, Paul sums up his theological understanding: God is our Creator and sustainer of all things; everything belongs to God. Paul concludes Romans 11 with a word of praise and worship to God.
We must know that our beliefs about God and our worship of God are interconnected and inseparable; one cannot exist without the other. John Stott, one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century, says, “The true knowledge of God will always lead us to worship, as it did to Paul. Our place is on our faces before him in adoration.” A theology that does not lead us to worship God and our worship that has no theology are both dangerous. Our theological understanding helps us to know who we are before God and what he did for us. Eventually, it leads us to say, “To him be the glory forever!”
*Application:* I cannot fully understand the greatness of God’s wisdom and knowledge. All I can do when thinking about his judgments and paths is to stand in awe. He knows everything. I cannot outgive God. God has given me his very best for me. He is my maker. God saves me through his Son Jesus and sustains me with his powerful word. He is worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. I will always worship him.
*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for your love and everything you do for me. Thank you for your mercy and grace that saved me. Jesus, help me to live for God’s glory. “To him be the glory forever!” Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 231
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We all can experience God speaking to us as we read and meditate on the Bible. Although there are different methods available to write daily meditations, these meditations are based on the SOAP method.
SOAP is an acronym for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. SOAP method is a simple way to meditate on the Word of God by reading the Scripture portion for the day to contemplate the verse that God highlights, observing what God wants to tell us, and applying it in our lives with a prayer. Watch this short video to see an example of a Quiet Time Meditation!
Scripture: Acts 19: 1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”“John’s baptism,” they replied.
Scripture: Psalm 27: 4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Scripture: Psalm 28: 9 Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Scripture: Psalm 29:3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.
Scripture: Esther 4: 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Scripture: Psalm 31: 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you.
Scripture: Job 1: 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." 9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied.
Scripture: Acts 24: 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Observation: Psalm 35 is one of the “Imprecatory Psalms” in the book of Psalms. In Psalm 35, David pleads to God to defend him from those who attack him without reason. The verses in the psalm suggest that David may have written this psalm when Saul chased to kill him. David tells about the types of attacks that he faced from those who fought against him: physical attack (v.1-10), personal attack (v.11-18), and verbal attack (false accusations, v.19-29). These unmotivated attacks caused an illness (v.13) and distress (v.26) in David’s life. Instead of retaliating against the malicious attacks, David invokes God to give due justice to the attackers. At the end of each of his appeals, David vows to praise God (v.9,18, 28). Each time David pleads to God concerning his internal and external struggles and troubles, he ends with a strong emphasis on praising God. Instead of giving answers to the false accusations against him, David wants to speak of God’s righteousness and praise him all day long.
Scripture: Acts 26: 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
Scripture: Acts 27: 10 “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” 11 But the Centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
Observation: After reading all the difficulties of the voyage to Rome when Paul was taken to Rome, we expect that the Lord would do great things in Rome. Luke instills a picture of Paul standing before Caesar in three chapters (Acts. 25-27). But in Acts 28, only 16 verses say about Paul’s ministry in Rome. Out of 16, the last two verses of Acts hint about what Paul did during the two years in Rome, and the remaining 14 verses tell us of his interaction with the Jews. Acts 28:30-31 does not say anything about whether he stood before Caesar and his ministry to the Gentiles. How shall we know the purpose of the Lord who brought Paul to Rome?
Scripture: Romans 1: 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Scripture: Psalm 40: 1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.
Scripture: Job 19: 25 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. 26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; 27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
Scripture: Romans 5: 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has been given us.
Scripture: Romans 6: 11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.
Scripture: Romans 7: 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature [Or in the flesh] a slave to the law of sin.
ripture: Romans 8: 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba,[Aramaic for father] Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
Scripture: Romans 9: 13 Just as it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Scripture: Romans 10: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
*Scripture:* Romans 11: 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” 36 For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
