John 11:43—46

“Lazarus, Come out!” It was a command from the sovereign Son of God, and compliance was instantaneous. There in the inky blackness of the sealed tomb, Lazarus’ pulse was restored, his awareness returned, and suddenly light invaded his space as trembling hands loosened his wrappings! As he emerged alive from that place of death, some rejoiced. Some rejected. But no one remained the same. The Lord of life did not leave that option open, and He still doesn’t today.

He either is who He said He is, or He isn’t. His claim to being the one and only avenue of access to the heavenly Father (John 14:6) is either true, or it isn’t. He leaves no room for a third choice, for to not decide is a decision in itself: it is a thinly-disguised rejection, which bears the same consequences as outright denial.

Does it matter? Is it all that important? Many say “no” today. God says, “he who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life.” (I John 5:12).

Will we take Him seriously?

Each day read all of Psalm 1.

1.     What three actions are we told NOT to do if want to be blessed?  (Ps 1:1)

2.    A. Read Ephesians 2:1-3. When we walk according to this world, who are we seeking to please?

B. According to Isaiah 53:6 when we choose not to follow God’s way, whose way are we choosing?

    3.  A. Read Romans 8:5-8.  When we choose to live according to our own sinful nature, what do we have our minds set on fulfilling?

        B. What attitude does the sinful mind have toward God?  (Romans 8:7)

        C. How does God feel about this sinful nature?  (Romans 8:8)

    4.  A. Read Eph 2:4-5.  According to these verses what will God do for us?  Why will He do this?  Add your name as you read these verses aloud.

        B. Read Ephesians 2:8-9.  How does He accomplish this?

    5.  A. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-18.  When we are in Christ what type of creation are we?  What happens to our old nature?

        B. What happens to our relationship with God?

    6.  Personal:  Read John 3:16.  Is your faith and trust in Jesus Christ to save you from your sins, reconcile you to God, and give you a new nature and eternal life?  If so, write or pray a brief thank you prayer to God.  If you have further questions, you can ask them here, talk to your pastor, or visit www.STIL-Chatting.com .