John 2 Begins with the story of Jesus’ first miracle, when he changed the water into wine at the wedding in Galilee.

John 2:11-12 says, “This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples.”

After this miracle, the small group went away for a few days. What do you think the conversation was during those few days in Capernaum? They probably had many questions about how Jesus did this miracle, and what this meant for them and for the world. We might call it reflection and analysis of the events.

I think there is a lesson for us in this story. There are times when we have seen God’s goodness, or His intervention in our lives; like protection from a tragedy, relief from an illness, or some coincidence that makes things go well for us. Maybe the lesson for us in this story is to take a moment to reflect and analyze what God has done and what it means.

Dear Lord, Thank you for working in our lives, and the lives of those we love. Help us remember to take time to see your work and blessings, and take time to acknowledge and give You thanks. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

In the account of Jesus walking on water the disciples saw Jesus walking toward them on the water and were afraid.

Matthew 14:27-31 writes, “But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”
Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”

Like Peter, why do we doubt God? It seems like a rhetorical question, but it is worth considering deeper. Jesus told Peter, “You have so little faith.” But why?

We are naturally uncomfortable with uncertainty, and when we are uncertain, we look for evidence to reduce our uncertainty. If we don’t find evidence, our human nature leads us to assume the worst. In addition, as Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:12, there are spiritual forces working against us and our faith.

So what do we do to overcome our doubt? Pray for faith, read our Bibles and gather evidence from the Bible accounts demonstrating how God’s power and love supported those who trusted him like Ruth, David, Solomon, the prophets, Peter, Paul, and the other apostle’s. Also, we need to remember times in our own lives that God made seemingly impossible situations work out for us. Then take action with confidence in God’s power and His love for each of us.

Dear Lord, our fear and doubt often prevent us from living the faithful confident lives you desire for us. Help us remember to come to you and your word for the strength to overcome our doubts and fears so that we can glorify you with our courageous works. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Do you ever find yourself watching a reality show on TV or a video on the internet, showing people swearing at each other, arguing, gossiping, and treating other people disrespectfully? Does the thought cross your mind that you really shouldn’t be watching this? Don’t we get attracted to the news story about the corrupt politician, having an affair, or the gruesome crime, and want to know all the details? How about the “funny” morning radio show making fun of everyone and full of vulgar jokes? If you feel like this is probably not right, Your apprehension is likely your conscience.

The apostle Paul says in his letter to the Philippians 4:8-9 “Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.”

We need to stop and think about what we are putting in our minds when we watch TV, listen to the radio, or read for entertainment. Is it true, honorable, just pure, lovely, gracious, excellent, and worthy of praise? If not, why are we giving it our attention?

Dear Lord, remind us to focus on the beauty and greatness you created and not get drawn into the negative and vulgar that break down our Christian character and give energy to the wrong things in the world. In Jesus Name. Amen

Have you ever wondered why God created people anyway? or wondered what our purpose is here on earth?

Isaiah, the old testament prophet gives us some insight into this question. Isaiah brings the message from God in Isaiah 43:6-7 saying, “Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth— everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” and in verse 21 God says through Isaiah “….the people I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.”

So we were created by God to glorify and praise Him. When we keep God first place in our lives, there are an unlimited number of ways we can bring glory to Him.

Dear Lord, help us remember that we are here to bring glory to you, through our faith and actions. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

I remember when my children were toddlers, my wife and I seemed to have an extra sense, and could tell what my children were up to even without watching everything they were doing. It was a combination of caring and awareness. We would intervene sometimes to prevent them from getting into trouble or sometimes let them experience challenges to help them learn.

Though at a much different level, these memories came to mind when I was reading Psalm 139:1-6, “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!”

God is completely aware of our every action, thought, and feeling, and He cares about each of us.

Dear Lord, what a joy it is to know that you are aware of our every situation and concern, and care for us with your “hand of blessing.” Help us remember this so we can overcome our fears with trust in you. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.