Read: John 5:30-47
You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. (vv. 39-40)
Can our spiritual lives get dry even amidst a busy routine of religious activities? You might be engaged with evangelism and mission, yet deep within you may feel the absence of true joy and contentment in your relationship with the Lord.
Prayer is one of the most important channels in nurturing our relationship with Jesus. In his book Praying the Bible, Donald Whitney points out that if our prayer remains focused on our own priorities (family, finances, work, or school) or whatever current crisis we are facing, then our prayers will become repetitive and dry. He suggests the proven method of praying with Scripture. Reading and then allowing the Word of God to prompt and direct our subjects of prayer can result in many benefits—namely, progressive subjects of prayers, increasing knowledge of the Word of God, knowing the will of God, and praying in the will of God. Some may recall it as “quiet time”—a time to spend quietly, every day, with God.
However, our reading today also reminds us that the value of studying Scripture is in the way it points us to Jesus. All of Scripture is a testimony or witness to Jesus, through God’s work with and for his people. Reading, praying, and reflecting with that in mind will bring us closer to Jesus and restore the joy of our walk with him.
As you pray, ask God to fill you with the joy of knowing him more deeply.
About the Author
Words of Hope’s South Asia Ministry field leader is based in India and works with more than 70 team members sharing the hope of the gospel in more than 20 languages. Because of security concerns, we have chosen not to share his name.
