Today’s Reading: John 6:60-71
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. So Jesus said to the Twelve, ‘Do you want to go as well?’ Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know that you are the Holy One of God.’”
* * * * *
Many followed Jesus after he had fed them. But when he talked about eating his flesh and drinking his blood—being totally committed to him until death—the masses melted away. They followed him only as long as he met their needs.
Don’t misunderstand. He is concerned for your daily needs. You are to pray to the Father to give you your daily bread.
But following Jesus is not about him benefiting you. It’s about your willingness to do what he says no matter what the cost. The crowds weren’t willing to pay this price.
Is this you? Do you follow the Lord only for what he will give to you? Or do you follow him because you know that he alone holds the keys for a meaningful life? As he died for you, are you willing to die for him? That’s the cost of discipleship.
After the masses had left, Jesus asked the Twelve if they were going to leave him as well. Simon Peter answered correctly. He realized that only Jesus had the words of eternal life. He recognized Jesus was the Holy One of God. He realized there was no other person who held this truth. Peter had believed in him. His faith was settled.
Is your faith settled? Is there any room for doubt? There should not be. Your doubt will cause your faith to be tossed to and fro—like the tide erasing a truth you just etched in the sand. It forces a divided loyalty. That’s why your faith should not waver.
How will you know if you truly are one of Jesus’ disciples? You will be one of his disciples tomorrow. And the day after that. And the day after that. Your perseverance in faith until the end of your life proves you are one of his faithful followers.
Yes, you will still have much to learn about following Jesus. That’s okay. The Twelve had much to learn as well. Just keep learning. Keep obeying what he says—even if you don’t understand why. He has his reasons. Sometimes they are hidden in heaven. But there are reasons behind his principles. Trust and obey them—and him. Every time you do, your faith grows stronger.
He alone holds the words of eternal life. No one else does. Every other teaching pales in comparison to his.
Jesus is the Holy One, sent from his Father in heaven because of his great love for you. He is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Your eternity is in his hands.
Trust him today in everything that happens to you.
And remember this truth: Only Jesus holds the words to eternal life.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]