Day 315 – John 14-17

Talking Points

• Praying in Jesus’ name is not tacking the expected, necessary ending onto your prayer or applying a divine post stamp to ensure its proper delivery. Praying in Jesus’ name is praying prayers that have resulted from knowing and walking so intimately close to Jesus that we are praying with the same heart, intent, and desire as our Lord. “Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
• Some of Jesus’ last instructions to His followers include the directive to be prepared for the rejection, hatred, and scorn of the world. Jesus is clear, the world could not tolerate Him, and His followers will bear the same disdain. While being a stark warning, it is actually a kindness to foretell of this expectation.
• The Holy Spirit is a great blessing for believers in the physical absence of Jesus. We are not abandoned to operate in our own power and strength, but we are given a Helper. And, not just any helper, but God Himself! As we trust Him, He empowers us, convicts us, comforts us, and teaches us, all while exalting Jesus!
• Jesus is very gracious in the plainness of His promise. There is a way to the Father and eternal life. That way is Himself. We do not have to solve theological riddles or run down religious rabbit holes, seeking for salvation. We do not have to taste and test all the many false ways the world offers to find peace. Jesus tells us with surety — He is the way. This plainness is surely an act of kindness. Turn to Jesus! Plain enough.

Thoughts

Today, we read of a title we should cherish — “friend” of Jesus. It is better than being called “slave,” though we willingly are. It is more personal than being called “disciple,” though we earnestly seek to be. It holds the richest, sweetest of meanings. And, Jesus calls us “friends.”

In the Old Testament, only Abraham was ever called this name of endearment. Imagine, today, Jesus names those who walk with Him in purpose and obedience as His friends. Think of what that means. A friend is trusted and counted as faithful. A friend shares our time and enjoys our company. A friend laughs and cries with us, truly participating in our lives. A friend is a pleasure, a joy, and a blessing. And, Jesus says that to Him, we are exactly that — friends! Wow!

It reminds me of one of my favorite hymns: What a Friend we have in Jesus.

In Jesus we are surely blessed. May we live in a way that our Friend is blessed as well. Lord, help me be a blessing to You today. I am glad we are friends!