People are part of God’s plan: Jesus, our perfect example – 25 May 2022

Recently, I had to step back again and ask our heavenly Father for forgiveness for my forward, know-it-all attitude when I took on a project. Halfway through the project, I had to start from the beginning. Why couldn’t I, like Jesus, admit from the start of the project that “[b]y myself I can do nothing?” (John 5:30).

Jesus’ admittance that He, the Son, can do nothing by Himself, confirms that in all things, he seeks the will of the Father and not his own, but the Father who sent him. (John 5:30) Even when his Father sent him to come and live with people. Not only among people who followed, acknowledged, and honoured him, but also among those who despised, mocked, humiliated and eventually nailed him innocently to a cross.

In this twilight phase of Jesus’ life on earth, his godly obedience and dependence on his Father did not waver. No, He knew that his suffering up to his last breath would victoriously open the way for every individual and future believer to discover God’s purpose for their own lives. And fulfil their calling until the end of their days on earth.

Like a lot of other people, you may also be sceptical of the trustworthiness of this Jesus in whom people (and you) have put their faith. Is there someone who can vouch for him? Of course! John 5 sheds light on these this question.

• Jesus himself testifies: He acknowledges that He, as the Son of God, can do nothing without God, not even judging someone. His judgment is only fair if he hears from the Father (verse 30-31)
• The works his Father gave him, testifies that the Father (verse 36) sent him.
• God the Father (“Another”) testifies in Jesus’ favour. It was He who sent Jesus! The question dear reader is: Do the people hear? Do the people see? No! because they became like blind and deaf people. And his message is not alive in their hearts! (verse 32)
• The Scriptures testify about Jesus. It refers to him as the one who fulfil the Scriptures. He is the One that brings life (verse 39-40)
• The Holy Spirit or Counsellor, the Spirit of truth that goes out from the Father testifies about Jesus. (John 15:26)

And us as believers? Jesus’ command to his disciples is clear: “And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.” (John 15:27) A command still valid for every Christ believer in 2022! For this reason, you can take a firm hold of and believe in him!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I rush into your presence because my “waiting on You” is affected by pressing schedules and my running around to get things done. Without your inspiring voice in what I plan and do, every effort is merely but man-made. Open my eyes and ears to hear your suggestions as clear as a bell. Amen