John 5

This is a hard chapter for me because it flies right in my face. Like in the story of the man at the pool I’ve been healed. Jesus has washed my sins away. I’m free. But sometimes I run face to face with Jesus and I’m sinning all over again. Has this ever happened to you?

During this 99 days I’m struggling with believing in Jesus. I’m not doubting the claims of the Gospel, but I’m finding myself too often not fully believing because I’m not doing what Jesus says to do. Sure, I’ve got the big things covered, it’s the small stuff that’s a struggle. You may be able to relate. As of late, I haven’t used my time wisely. No, I’m not doing bad stuff it’s just that Jesus is not getting out of me what I know He deserves. For example, rather than getting in a good work-out at home or at the gym I’m piddling around the house not doing much of anything. I’m thankful for my basketball buddies who encouraged my to play this morning.

In the rest of this chapter Jesus is concerned about our not believing in Him yet believing everything else around us. He plainly says, "I do not accept praise from men, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts” (John 5:41-42 NIV).

God, today help me to love You and You only. For in loving You I find peace and the true love of all that is good and right. In Jesus name, amen.


Nathan Tillotson
March 21