Seeking Jesus First - June 26, 2026

“One of You Will Betray Me”

Please Read John 13:18–30 (NKJV)

Reflection

While they were still at the table, Jesus said something that sent a shock through the room:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.”

Jesus had just washed their feet, including the feet of Judas. He had served the one who had already made an agreement with the chief priests to hand Him over. Now He spoke plainly. He quoted from Psalm 41, saying that the Scripture must be fulfilled: “He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.”

Jesus was deeply troubled in His spirit. He knew what was coming. He knew the darkness that was about to engulf Judas. After Jesus dipped the bread and gave it to him, the Scripture says:

“After the piece of bread, Satan entered him.”

Then Jesus said to Judas, “What you do, do quickly.” And Judas immediately went out into the night.

This was more than the betrayal of a friend. This was the hour when darkness was allowed to do its worst. Jesus was not surprised, but He was grieved. The one who had walked with Him, eaten with Him, and been trusted with the money bag had hardened his heart to the point that Satan could enter him.

There is a sobering reality here. It is possible to be close to Jesus outwardly — to eat at His table, to hear His words, to be part of His inner circle — and yet have a heart that is far from Him. Judas had every opportunity to repent, yet he chose the path of darkness.

Application

Today, take time to examine your own heart before the Lord. Are there any areas where you have been allowing compromise, secret sin, or a divided heart to grow? Judas did not become a betrayer overnight. Little by little, he allowed greed, offense, and unbelief to take root until his heart was fully given over to darkness.

Renew your mind with this truth: Jesus knows the condition of every heart. He is not fooled by outward appearance. Ask the Holy Spirit to search you and to reveal anything that is drawing you away from wholehearted devotion to Jesus. Choose today to guard your heart and to walk in the light while you still have the opportunity.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the sobering warning in Your Word about the danger of a hardened heart. Thank You that Jesus knew what was in Judas and still gave him every opportunity to turn. Forgive us for the times we have allowed compromise or unbelief to take root in our hearts. Renew our minds today to walk in honesty and humility before You. Search us, O God, and know our hearts. Cleanse us from anything that would lead us into darkness. Help us to remain faithful to Jesus, even when it is costly. May we never take lightly the privilege of walking with You. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 25, 2026

“He Loved Them to the End”

Please Read John 13:1–17 (NKJV)

Reflection

It was the night before the cross. Jesus knew that His hour had come. He knew that Judas had already agreed to betray Him. He knew the suffering that awaited Him. Yet John tells us something remarkable:

“Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.”

Jesus did not withdraw in self-protection. He did not grow distant or self-focused. Instead, He demonstrated the full extent of His love by doing something shocking. He rose from the table, laid aside His outer garments, and began to wash the feet of His disciples.

This was the work of the lowest servant. No one else had volunteered to do it. Yet Jesus, knowing who He was and where He was going, took the position of a servant. He washed the feet of all twelve — including the feet of Judas, who would soon betray Him, and Peter, who would soon deny Him.

When Peter objected, Jesus answered with words that carried both rebuke and promise:

“If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”

Jesus was showing that true cleansing and true relationship with Him come only through receiving what He alone can do. At the same time, He was setting an example for how His followers are to treat one another. After washing their feet, He said:

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”

In the Kingdom life, love is not merely a feeling — it is demonstrated through humble, practical service. Jesus did not ask His disciples to do anything He had not first done Himself.

Application

Today, ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can “wash the feet” of someone in your life. This may mean serving someone who cannot repay you, forgiving someone who has hurt you, or humbling yourself to meet a practical need. Renew your mind with this truth: He loved them to the end. Jesus did not love us from a distance — He came low to serve us. Ask yourself: Is there anyone the Lord is prompting me to serve with humility today? Choose to follow His example, not out of obligation, but out of love for Him and for those He has placed in your life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus, who loved His own to the end. Thank You that even when He knew He was going to the cross, He still chose to serve His disciples with humility and love. Forgive us for the times we have been too proud or too self-focused to serve others. Renew our minds today to follow the example of Jesus. Help us to love others to the end — not with words only, but with humble, practical acts of service. May we walk in the same love and humility that Jesus demonstrated. In His name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 24, 2026

“The Word I Have Spoken Will Judge Him”

Please Read John 12:47–50 (NKJV)

Reflection

In His final public words, Jesus made a profound and comforting statement about why He came:

“For I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.”

Jesus was clear — His mission was not condemnation. He came as the expression of the Father’s love to bring salvation. Just as He said in John 3:17, “God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” The heart of the Father toward lost humanity has always been love and redemption.

Yet Jesus also spoke with solemn clarity about those who reject Him:

“He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him — the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.”

This is a vital truth. Jesus Himself does not stand as an independent judge over people. The judgment that comes upon those who refuse to believe is not the personal verdict of Jesus acting alone. Rather, it is the word that He has spoken that will judge them. And that word is not His own.

Jesus explained:

“For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

The words of Jesus carry the full authority and weight of the Father. To reject the words of Jesus is to reject the very word of God. The same word that brings everlasting life to those who receive it will stand as a witness against those who refuse it in the last day.

This reveals both the love of the Father and the seriousness of faith. The Father sent His Son not to condemn, but to save. He has extended grace through the words and work of Jesus. However, that grace must be answered by faith. God’s love does not force salvation upon anyone. His love has provided the way, but it is our responsibility to receive it through faith in His Son and His word.

Application

Today, consider how you are responding to the words of Jesus. He did not come to condemn you — He came to save you. Have you truly received His word with faith, or have you been treating it lightly? Renew your mind with this truth: The word that Jesus spoke is the Father’s word, and it carries everlasting consequences. If you have believed, thank God for the grace that brought you out of darkness. If there is any area where you have been resisting or delaying your response to His word, choose today to receive it with faith. God’s love has made the way — now respond with faith.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that You did not send Jesus to condemn the world, but to save it. Thank You that the words of Jesus are Your words — words of life, truth, and grace. Forgive us for the times we have taken Your word lightly or allowed unbelief to keep us from fully receiving it. Renew our minds today to understand that Your love has provided salvation, but it must be answered by our faith. Help us to receive the words of Jesus with open and believing hearts. May we never reject the very word that brings everlasting life. Strengthen us to walk in faith and obedience to Your word. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 23, 2026

“I Have Come as a Light into the World”

Please Read John 12:44–50 (NKJV)

Reflection

These verses contain Jesus’ final public appeal before He goes to the cross. He cries out with urgency:

“He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.”

Just as Jesus explained in John 3:16–18, He did not come into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. The Light does not come to condemn — it comes to expose and reveal what is already there. When the Light shines, it makes clear who is walking in truth and who is remaining in darkness of heart.

Jesus makes it plain that receiving Him is receiving the Father. To believe in Jesus is to believe in the One who sent Him. Yet He also gives a solemn warning. Those who hear His words and reject them will not be judged by Jesus personally in that moment. Instead, the word that He has spoken will judge them in the last day. The word of Jesus carries eternal weight because it is the word of the Father. It is not neutral. To receive it is to receive everlasting life. To reject it is to remain in darkness, under the judgment of that same word.

This was Jesus’ last public invitation. He had spoken clearly. He had performed many signs. Now the responsibility rested on those who heard Him. The Light had come. What would they do with it?

Application

Today, hear the heart of Jesus in His final appeal. He came as Light so that you would not have to live in darkness. The Light does not condemn you — it reveals where you are and invites you to come into the light. Have you truly believed in Him — not just intellectually, but with your whole heart? Is there any area where you are still choosing to walk in darkness rather than stepping fully into His light?

Renew your mind with this truth: The word of Jesus is life, and it will judge in the last day. Do not delay your response. Believe in the Light. Walk in the Light. Receive His word today and let it shape how you live, speak, and follow Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus as the Light of the world. Thank You that He came not to condemn us, but to save us and bring us out of darkness. Forgive us for the times we have heard Your word but have not fully responded. Renew our minds today to believe in the Light and to walk in it. Help us to receive the words of Jesus as life and to live in the light of Your presence. May we never take lightly the word that will judge in the last day. Strengthen us to follow Jesus with wholehearted faith. In His name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 20, 2026

“They Loved the Praise of Men”

Please Read John 12:37–43 (NKJV)

Reflection

Even after Jesus had performed so many signs and miracles, many of the people still did not believe in Him. Their hearts had become dull, their ears heavy, and their eyes closed to the truth standing right in front of them.

What is especially sobering is what John reveals about some of the rulers:

“Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.”

These were people who intellectually believed that Jesus was from God. They had seen the evidence with their own eyes. Yet they refused to openly confess Him or follow Him publicly. Why? Because they valued the approval and acceptance of people more than they valued the approval of God. They were more afraid of losing their position, reputation, and social standing than they were of dishonoring the Lord.

This is one of the most common and subtle traps in the Christian life. It is possible to believe in Jesus in our minds while still living in fear of what others think. When we love the praise of men more than the praise of God, we will compromise, stay silent, or hold back from fully following Jesus. We may even convince ourselves that we are being “wise” or “cautious,” when in reality we are simply living for the wrong audience.

Application

Today, take an honest look at your own heart. Are there areas where you have been holding back from fully obeying or publicly honoring Jesus because you are concerned about what people will think? Are there places where the fear of losing respect, relationships, or reputation has influenced your decisions? Renew your mind with this truth: We cannot truly follow Jesus while living for the praise of men. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any place where the desire for man’s approval has been stronger than your desire for God’s approval. Choose today to live for the praise of God alone. His approval is the only approval that ultimately matters.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the clear warning in Your Word about loving the praise of men more than the praise of God. Forgive us for the times we have allowed the fear of people to keep us from fully following or confessing Jesus. Renew our minds today to value Your approval above all else. Give us the courage to walk in the light and to honor You, even when it costs us the approval of others. Help us to live as those who seek the praise that comes from You alone. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 19, 2026

“Now My Soul Is Troubled”

Please Read John 12:27–36 (NKJV)

Reflection

As Jesus approached the cross, He did not hide His humanity. He openly said,

“Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour.”

Jesus was not in denial about the suffering ahead. His soul was deeply troubled. Yet He chose to stay aligned with the Father’s will rather than ask to be delivered from it. He knew the cross was the very reason He had come.

In the middle of this intense moment, Jesus gave a clear and urgent command to those listening:

“Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.”

Jesus was speaking about more than physical daylight. He was warning that there is a limited window of opportunity to respond to Him. The light of His presence and teaching was shining brightly in their midst, but that window would not remain open forever.

Then Jesus gave the reason for walking in the light:

“While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.”

This is a profound statement of identity and transformation. Believing in Jesus is not just about receiving something from Him — it is about becoming something in Him. When we believe in the Light, we are born into a new nature. We become sons and daughters of light.

This is not something we achieve by effort alone. True faith in the Light will always lead us to walk in the grace and truth of Christ. Faith that does not produce this walk becomes empty and unfruitful. To be a son or daughter of light means our lives now reflect His nature — His truth, His love, His righteousness, and His authority.

Application

Today, ask yourself honestly: Is there any area where I have been delaying my response to Jesus? Is there something He has been speaking to me about that I have been putting off?

More importantly, are you living as a son or daughter of light? Renew your mind with this truth: Believe in the light, that you may become sons of light. Believing is not a one-time event — it is a continual response that shapes our identity and conduct. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any area where you have been walking in compromise, confusion, or fear instead of walking as a child of light. Choose today to believe in the light and to live out your true identity as a son or daughter of light while the light is still shining clearly in your life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus, who faced the cross with full awareness and still chose to do Your will. Thank You that He did not turn away even when His soul was troubled. Forgive us for the times we have delayed our response to You or taken the light of Your presence for granted. Renew our minds today to believe in the light so that we may truly become sons and daughters of light. Help us to walk in the grace and truth of Christ, not by effort alone, but by faith that produces a transformed life. Strengthen us to respond to You quickly and to live as children of light in every area of our lives. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 18, 2026

“Sir, We Wish to See Jesus”

Please Read John 12:20–26 (NKJV)

Reflection

Some Greeks who had come to worship at the feast approached Philip and said, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip told Andrew, and together they brought the request to Jesus. It was a sincere desire from Gentiles who wanted to encounter the Lord.

Jesus responded in a surprising way. Instead of immediately going to meet them, He said:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.”

Jesus was revealing a profound spiritual principle. If He was going to bring salvation to the Gentiles — and to the whole world — He would first have to go to the cross. The grain of wheat had to fall into the ground and die. Only then could it produce much fruit.

Jesus then applied this same principle to His disciples:

“He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.”

True discipleship requires death to self. We cannot truly “see Jesus” — that is, walk with Him in deep fellowship and fruitfulness — while holding tightly to our own plans, comfort, reputation, or control. If we truly wish to see Jesus — to see Christ formed in us — then we must be willing to lay down our old life and ways and follow Him. The life that bears much fruit is the life that has been surrendered.

Application

Today, consider this question honestly: Are there areas in your life where you are still trying to preserve your own life, reputation, or comfort rather than surrendering them to Jesus? Renew your mind with this truth: Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you one specific area where He is calling you to “die” — whether it is a personal ambition, a relationship, a habit, or a fear. Choose today to surrender that area to the Lord. As you do, you will begin to experience the fruitfulness and honor that only come through following Jesus in the way of the cross.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the powerful principle Jesus taught: that true life and fruitfulness come through surrender and death to self. Thank You that Jesus was willing to fall into the ground and die so that we could have life. Forgive us for the times we have tried to hold onto our own lives while still wanting to see Jesus. Renew our minds today to embrace the way of the cross. Help us to die to self so that we may truly live and bear much fruit for Your glory. Strengthen us to follow Jesus wherever He leads, knowing that the Father honors those who serve His Son. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 17, 2026

“Hosanna! Blessed is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord”

Please Read John 12:12–19 (NKJV)

Reflection

The next day, a great multitude that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. They took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, crying out:

“Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! The King of Israel!”

The crowd was excited. They spread their garments on the road and waved palm branches, treating Jesus like a conquering king. They were welcoming Him with great enthusiasm — but their understanding was shallow. Many in the crowd saw Jesus as a political deliverer who would free them from Roman oppression and restore Israel’s earthly glory. They wanted a king who would fight their enemies and give them victory, not a Savior who would go to the cross.

This was superficial faith. It was loud, emotional, and exciting, but it was not rooted in true understanding of who Jesus was or why He had come. The same crowd that shouted “Hosanna!” would later cry “Crucify Him!” when He did not meet their expectations.

In contrast, true faith recognizes Jesus as the King who came to suffer, die, and rise again for our sins. True faith does not just celebrate what Jesus can do for us — it surrenders to who He is and follows Him, even when the path leads through difficulty and cost.

The Pharisees were frustrated by the crowd’s excitement, saying, “You are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!” But their frustration revealed their own unbelief. They saw the same events and responded with opposition rather than faith.

Application

Today, take an honest look at your own faith. Is it marked by genuine surrender to Jesus as Lord, or is it sometimes more like the crowd — excited when things feel good, but shallow when following Him becomes costly? Renew your mind with this truth: True faith knows who Jesus really is and follows Him anyway. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any area where your faith has been more about what you want from Jesus than about surrendering to who He is. Choose today to move from superficial excitement to deep, committed faith that honors Him as King — even when it costs you something.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus as our true King. Thank You that He did not come to meet our shallow expectations, but to save us and reign in our hearts. Forgive us for the times our faith has been more about excitement than surrender. Renew our minds today to truly know who Jesus is and to follow Him with wholehearted devotion. Help us to move beyond superficial faith and to walk with Him as Lord, even when the path is difficult. May our lives reflect genuine faith that honors You. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 16, 2026

“Because of Him Many Went Away”

Please Read John 12:9–11 (NKJV)

Reflection

After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, a great many people came to Bethany — not only to see Jesus, but also to see Lazarus, the man who had been dead and was now alive. The miracle had become widely known, and it was drawing people to Jesus.

However, the religious leaders were not pleased. The chief priests made a chilling decision: they plotted to put Lazarus to death as well. Why? Because on account of him many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.

Lazarus had become a living testimony. His very presence was causing people to turn from the religious system and put their faith in Jesus. For the chief priests, this was unacceptable. They were willing to kill not only Jesus, but anyone whose life pointed others to Him.

This reveals the growing cost of being associated with Jesus. Lazarus did not ask to be raised from the dead, but now his life was in danger simply because Jesus had touched him. Following Jesus — or even being visibly connected to Him — was becoming costly. It was no longer safe or socially acceptable in many circles.

In the Kingdom life, there is a cost to following Jesus. Sometimes that cost involves losing favor with people, being misunderstood, or even facing opposition from religious or influential voices. Yet the very thing that made Lazarus a target — his testimony of what Jesus had done — was also what drew many others to faith.

Application

Today, consider your own life. Has following Jesus ever cost you something — a relationship, a promotion, social acceptance, or the approval of others? Renew your mind with this truth: Because of Him, many went away and believed. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you if there is any area where you have been holding back or staying silent because the cost feels too high. Choose today to let your life be a testimony of what Jesus has done, even if it means some people “go away” from you. Your faithfulness may be the very thing God uses to draw others to Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the powerful testimony of Lazarus, whose life caused many to believe in Jesus. Thank You that even when following Jesus becomes costly, You are still at work drawing people to Yourself. Forgive us for the times we have pulled back or stayed silent because we feared the cost. Renew our minds today to count the cost willingly. Help us to live as living testimonies of Your power and grace. Strengthen us to follow Jesus faithfully, even when it means losing favor with some people. May our lives point others to You. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 13, 2026

“She Has Done What She Could”

Please Read John 12:1–8 (NKJV)

Reflection

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. While they were eating together, Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard and anointed the feet of Jesus, then wiped His feet with her hair. The fragrance of the oil filled the entire house.

This was an extravagant act of worship. The perfume was worth approximately a year’s wages for a common laborer. Mary did not pour it sparingly — she poured it all out. She did not simply anoint His head, as was customary; she humbled herself and anointed His feet, using her own hair to wipe them. It was an act of deep love, humility, and devotion.

Judas immediately criticized her, saying the perfume should have been sold and the money given to the poor. But Jesus defended Mary with these powerful words:

“Let her alone; she has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial.”

Jesus saw what others missed. Mary’s act was not wasteful — it was timely. She had discerned that Jesus was about to die, and she gave Him her very best while He was still with her. She did not wait until it was too late.

In the Kingdom life, true worship often costs us something. Mary did not give Jesus what was convenient or leftover — she gave Him her very best. Her worship was costly, humble, and timely. Jesus did not measure her gift by its monetary value, but by the love and sacrifice behind it. He simply said, “She has done what she could.”

Application

Today, ask yourself: “Am I giving Jesus my best, or am I giving Him what is convenient and leftover?” Renew your mind with this truth: She has done what she could. Consider what “costly worship” looks like in your life right now. It may be giving financially, serving sacrificially, forgiving someone who hurt you deeply, or surrendering a dream or relationship to the Lord. Whatever it is, ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can offer Jesus your very best this week — not out of obligation, but out of love and devotion.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the beautiful example of Mary, who gave Jesus her very best in an act of humble and costly worship. Thank You that Jesus received her gift and defended her. Forgive us for the times we have given You leftovers instead of our best. Renew our minds today to understand that true worship often costs us something. Help us to do what we can for Jesus while we still have the opportunity. May our lives be marked by extravagant love and wholehearted devotion to You. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 12, 2026

“Jesus No Longer Walked Openly”

Please Read John 11:54–57 (NKJV)

Reflection

After raising Lazarus from the dead, the religious leaders became even more determined to kill Jesus. In response, Jesus no longer moved about openly among the people. Instead, He withdrew with His disciples to a city called Ephraim, near the wilderness, where He remained for a time.

This was not fear on Jesus’ part — it was strategic. His hour had not yet come. However, the increasing hostility was very real. The chief priests and Pharisees had given a clear command: if anyone knew where Jesus was, they were to report it so that He could be arrested.

The atmosphere had changed. Following Jesus was no longer safe or socially acceptable in many circles. The cost of being associated with Him was rising quickly. People were now being pressured to betray His location. The religious system had turned against Him, and anyone who stood with Him risked being caught in the crossfire.

This moment in the Gospel of John marks a clear shift. The raising of Lazarus was the final public miracle that pushed the religious leaders over the edge. From this point forward, Jesus moved with greater intentionality toward the cross, and those who followed Him would increasingly have to count the cost.

In the Kingdom life, following the resurrected Christ has always involved a cost. There are seasons when walking with Jesus brings favor and blessing, but there are also seasons when it brings pressure, misunderstanding, opposition, or loss. True discipleship means being willing to follow Him even when the path becomes costly.

Application

Today, honestly examine your walk with Jesus. Are there areas where you have been pulling back or staying silent because following Him has become costly in your relationships, workplace, family, or social circles? Renew your mind with this truth: Following the resurrected Christ always involves a cost. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you one specific area where He is calling you to stand more boldly or obey more fully, even if it comes at a personal price. Choose today to follow Jesus with a whole heart, regardless of the cost.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who continued to walk in obedience even when the cost increased. Thank You that He did not shrink back when opposition grew. Forgive us for the times we have pulled back or stayed silent when following You became difficult or costly. Renew our minds today to count the cost willingly. Give us courage to follow Jesus openly and faithfully, even when it is not convenient or safe. Strengthen us to remain true to You when pressure comes. May we be disciples who follow the resurrected Christ no matter what it costs. In His name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 11, 2026

“One Man Should Die for the People”

Please Read John 11:45–53 (NKJV)

Reflection

After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, many of the Jews who had witnessed the miracle believed in Him. However, instead of rejoicing, the chief priests and Pharisees were filled with fear and anger. They called a meeting and said:

“What shall we do? For this Man works many signs. If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation.”

In the middle of their plotting, the high priest, Caiaphas, spoke up with these chilling words:

“You know nothing at all, nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.”

Caiaphas meant this as a cold, political calculation — it would be better for one man (Jesus) to die than for the whole nation to suffer under Roman judgment. What he did not realize was that he was speaking prophetically. John explains that Caiaphas did not say this of his own accord, but as high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation — and not only for that nation, but also that He would gather together the children of God who were scattered abroad.

In the Kingdom life, we must remember that all God wants in order to fulfill His purpose is a person who will trust Him and obey. He was even willing to become a human being Himself to be that Person. God is looking for people to believe His word and to align their conduct and conversation with it. Even when people act with evil motives, God can still work through believers to redeem those circumstances. What was intended for harm will turn for good.

Application

Today, bring before the Lord any situation where you have been hurt, betrayed, or opposed by others. Renew your mind with this truth: All God needs is a person who will trust Him and obey. Instead of becoming bitter or discouraged when others act against you, choose to stay aligned with God’s Word in both your actions and your words. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can respond in faith and obedience so that God can redeem the situation. Trust that even when people have evil intentions, God can still bring good out of it through those who choose to trust and obey Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that You are always working to fulfill Your redemptive purposes. Thank You that even when people act with evil motives, You can still work through those who trust and obey You. Forgive us for the times we have become fearful, bitter, or discouraged when others have opposed us. Renew our minds today to believe that all You need is a heart that trusts You and obeys Your Word. Help us stay aligned with You in both our conduct and our conversation. Strengthen our faith to believe that what was intended for harm can still turn for good when we choose to trust and obey. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 9, 2026

“Lazarus, Come Forth!”

Please Read John 11:41–44 (NKJV)

Reflection

After the stone was rolled away, Jesus lifted His eyes and prayed, thanking the Father for hearing Him. Then, with great authority, He cried out with a loud voice:

“Lazarus, come forth!”

And the dead man came out.

This is one of the most powerful moments in all of Scripture. Jesus did not touch Lazarus. He did not go into the tomb. He simply spoke. The same voice that spoke creation into existence now spoke life into a man who had been dead for four days.

What is remarkable is that Lazarus responded to the voice of Jesus even though he was still bound hand and foot with graveclothes. Death could not keep him. The grave could not hold him. When Jesus called his name, Lazarus had to come forth.

This miracle powerfully demonstrates that obedience to the word of Jesus brings resurrection life, even in situations that appear completely impossible. Lazarus didn’t have the strength to free himself. He was dead. But the word of the Lord was enough to raise him.

In the Kingdom life, we often face situations that feel as dead as Lazarus — dead dreams, dead relationships, dead areas of our spiritual life, or circumstances that seem beyond hope. Yet the same Jesus who called Lazarus by name still speaks today. When we hear His voice and respond in obedience, resurrection life can flow into those dead places.

Application

Today, ask the Holy Spirit to show you any area of your life that feels spiritually dead, hopeless, or beyond repair. Renew your mind with this truth: The word of Jesus still has the power to bring resurrection life. Listen for His voice. Is there something He has been speaking to you that you have not yet obeyed? It may be a step of faith, a command to forgive, a call to pray, or an instruction to release something. Choose today to respond to His voice, even if the situation looks impossible. As you obey, expect the life-giving power of Jesus to begin raising what has been dead.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the powerful moment when Jesus stood at the tomb and cried, “Lazarus, come forth!” Thank You that His word still carries resurrection power today. Forgive us for the times we have looked at dead situations and lost hope. Renew our minds to believe that nothing is too dead for Jesus to raise. Help us to hear His voice clearly and to obey Him quickly, even when it seems impossible. Speak life into every dead area of our lives and bring forth resurrection where there has only been death. In the mighty name of Jesus, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - June 8, 2026

“Take Away the Stone”

Please Read John 11:38–40 (NKJV)

Reflection

When Jesus arrived at the tomb of Lazarus, He gave a simple but startling command:

“Take away the stone.”

Martha immediately objected. Her brother had been dead for four days. In her mind, opening the tomb would only make things worse. The smell of death would fill the air, and nothing good could come from it.

Jesus responded with a gentle but powerful rebuke:

“Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”

This statement is deeply connected to what Jesus said in John 9 concerning the man born blind. When the disciples asked, “Who sinned, this man or his parents?”, Jesus answered that the man’s condition existed “that the works of God should be revealed in him.” In both situations, Jesus was teaching the same principle: God’s glory is often revealed after we choose to believe, not before.

Martha wanted to understand before she obeyed. She wanted to see something hopeful before she believed. But Jesus called her to believe first. Only then would she see the glory of God displayed in the raising of her brother.

This is a consistent pattern in Scripture. God often asks us to take a step of faith — to “take away the stone” — even when the situation looks hopeless, irreversible, or even offensive to our natural reasoning. The glory of God is revealed to those who are willing to believe before they see.

Application

Today, ask the Holy Spirit if there is a “stone” in your life that Jesus is asking you to remove — something that looks dead, final, or too far gone. It may be a relationship, a dream, a financial situation, or an area of personal struggle. Renew your mind with this truth: If you believe, you will see the glory of God. Choose to trust Jesus even when you cannot yet see how He will move. Take the step of obedience He is asking of you today, whether it is prayer, forgiveness, confession, or simply refusing to give up. Believe first — then watch for His glory to be revealed.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that Jesus calls us to believe even when we cannot yet see. Thank You for the reminder that Your glory is often revealed after we take steps of faith in the middle of impossible situations. Forgive us for the times we have waited to see results before we were willing to believe or obey. Renew our minds today to trust You even when the “stone” looks too heavy and the situation looks too final. Help us to “take away the stone” in obedience and to believe that we will see Your glory. May our faith bring You glory in every area of our lives. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.

Seeking Jesus First - May 21, 2026

“Jesus Wept”

Please Read John 11:28–37 (NKJV)

Reflection

When Mary reached Jesus, she fell at His feet and said through her tears, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” The Jews who had come to mourn with her were also weeping.

Then we read these profound words:

“When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled… Jesus wept.”

The Lord of Life, who knew He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead, still allowed Himself to feel the full weight of their grief. He did not scold their tears. He did not rush past their sorrow. He entered into it.

This is a beautiful fulfillment of Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”

Jesus perfectly modeled what love looks like in community. He did not stand above their pain — He stepped into it. The One who had the power to end their sorrow first chose to share it. His tears were not a sign of weakness or lack of faith. They were a sign of deep, compassionate love.

In the Kingdom life, we are called to follow Jesus’ example. When others rejoice, we rejoice with them. When others weep, we weep with them. True Christlike love does not remain detached. It draws near. It feels. It weeps.

Jesus’ tears at Lazarus’ tomb remind us that we have a High Priest who is touched with the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15). He does not merely fix our pain from a distance — He meets us in it.

Application

Today, ask the Holy Spirit to show you someone who is weeping or carrying heavy grief. Renew your mind with this truth: Jesus wept with those who wept, and He calls us to do the same. Reach out to that person today — not with quick answers or fixes, but with presence and compassion. Sit with them in their sorrow. Pray with them. Let them know they are not alone. As you do, you will be walking in the footsteps of the One who wept with Mary.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that Jesus wept. Thank You that He modeled perfect love by entering into our pain rather than standing above it. Thank You for the command in Romans 12:15 to weep with those who weep. Soften our hearts today. Give us eyes to see those who are hurting and hearts willing to draw near. Help us love like Jesus — with compassion, presence, and genuine tears when needed. May we be a people who both rejoice and weep with others, just as our Savior did. In His tender name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.