GPS-Mud in Your Eye

MAR 03  / Sunday – Read John 9:1-41 / John 10:1-21

Overview: Jesus teaches there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. How far are we willing to go for our friends?

04 / Mon – Unusual prescription  |  Read John 9:1-12

Last week’s lame man was healed and told by Jesus to sin no more. In today’s story, the disciples wanted to know whose sin resulted in a man’s blindness. What was Jesus’ answer in v 3? What conclusions can you draw from his response? Take a minute to consider what Jesus put on the man’s eyes…dirt mixed with saliva! Have you ever found yourself wondering: what did I do to deserve this? Yet this man wasn’t offended. He obeyed and was healed. Sometimes the solution God has for you comes in strange ways.

05 / Tue – Two responses  |  Read John 9:13-34

Two things happened as a result of Jesus’ actions: the blind man was healed and the Pharisees got mad. Why? This man, who likely had little or no formal education, displayed wisdom and courage when he stated the obvious, at his own peril, to the religious leaders in v 25. Speaking truth to powerful people can be hazardous. Are you spiritually prepared to do it anyway?

06 / Wed – I can see clearly now  |  Read John 9:35-41

Jesus found the healed man after learning of his ouster from the synagogue. The man then turned his life over to the Lord because he could see clearly, both physically and spiritually. Jesus’ love extends to all. Sadly, the sighted Pharisees were spiritually blind and could not see it. They were hindered by their devotion to rules instead of to the God who made them. Do you know someone right now who needs to have their spiritual vision restored? Could that someone be you? Jesus is just as willing today as he was back then.

07 / Thu – Not just a job  |  Read John 10:1-18

A shepherd’s job is to take care of his sheep but he also loves them. He knows each by name. He risks his life to save them if needed. In response, the sheep know him. They recognize his voice as distinct from all others. They listen and they follow where he leads them. Have you learned to know your Shepherd’s voice? Do you listen to Him? How has He provided for your needs? When has He protected or even rescued you when you’ve wandered into dangerous territory?

08 / Fri – Another look at a famous psalm  |  Read Psalm 23:1-6

David grew up as a shepherd. He speaks from experience when he lists all the things a shepherd does for the sheep he loves. Do you need to rest in a safe place sometimes? What hidden currents could drag you under when you are looking for refreshment? How do you know which paths are the right ones? Do you believe you are never alone, even in the darkest valleys of life? How has the Lord provided for you while your ‘enemies’ looked on? Oil is a healing balm and it is also a sign of honor. David ends with God’s ultimate goal for us. Which of these verses speaks to your need today?

09 / Sat – No doubt about it  |  Read John 15:13

As you think of how Jesus’ love was displayed in the stories you’ve read this week, what are some ways you have seen his love evident in your life? One of the biggest lies the enemy throws at people, when bad things occur, is…if God really loves you, why did this happen? The answer to that ‘why’ question may never come this side of heaven. But you can confidently refute the lie that God does not love you. If Jesus never did anything else for you, this one thing proves how much he loves you!