What Jesus Did! 'Always? Always!' — John 8:29

Sunday, June 17, 2018

[Jesus said,] "And the one who sent me is with me — he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him."
— John 8:29 NLT

Key Thought

The premarital counselor gave me this advice: "Never say 'you never,' 'you always,' or 'you're just like your mother.'" None of us does "always" very well! We usually use it to exaggerate and emphasize something, or we use it as a put-down. But for Jesus, "always" fits. He does what is pleasing to God no matter the public response or the price there is to pay. He is obedient, submissive, and sacrificial in doing God's will. And Jesus is our model, our goal, and the perfect one toward whom the Spirit leads us. While we may not live up to "always," let's shoot always to do what pleases our heavenly Father!

Today's Prayer

Righteous Father, please forgive my sins. I know they disappoint and disgust you. Thank you for providing your forgiveness for me through Jesus' atoning sacrifice for my sins. Be with me and empower me through your Holy Spirit as I seek always to please you, not out of a sense of guilt or fear, but out of a deep sense of love, joy, appreciation, and praise. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 1 John 2:1-2
  • Hebrews 7:22-25
  • Matthew 28:19-20

Comments

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Illustration

Illustration of John 8:29 NLT — [Jesus said,] "And the one who sent me is with me — he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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