Lenten Readings: John 4

Lenten Readings: The two-year Bible reading plan puts the Gospel accounts of Luke and John right between Ash Wednesday and Easter. Whether you're doing the reading plan or not, you can follow along on the blog and read daily meditations based on the accounts of Jesus, whose life and death we remember and cherish during this season of Lent. Check back every day starting on February 14 and until Easter Saturday.

Wednesday, March 14, 2018
READ John 4
MEDITATE on John 4:24, "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” Have you worshiped God in spirit and in truth?

REFLECT
Jesus and his disciples were baptizing and many were professing faith, but were they worshiping Jesus truly? Later, in John 6, many who were following him desert him. Was their commitment genuine? Was their faith shallow?

Cutting through all of this is the word of God, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12 ESV). The truth humbles us because of our sin and because of God's grace, and we worship God genuinely and humbly at that point. The Holy Spirit reinforces the grace of God to us, applying our union with Christ, and we worship because of the Gospel of grace that saves us and brings us into a relationship with God.

The Samaritans hear the woman's testimony and many believe. Later in John 4, the official whose son was sick believes in Jesus. They know they cannot save themselves and turn to the Messiah sent from God.

We worship because He alone saves us and is glorious and gracious. Let God have all of your worship today and every day.

PRAY

Pray for a refreshed view of yourself and of your Savior. Pray for a simple heart of worship.