You have the words of eternal life.
Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.” Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? Yet one of you is a devil.” He was speaking of Judas son of Simon Iscariot, for he, though one of the twelve, was going to betray him. -John 6:66-71 NRSV
Jesus has been speaking about how the Spirit gives life and not the flesh. It is a difficult teaching for those who experience life in fleshly activities. In reality, I too struggle with this teaching. Sometimes, when life is turned inside out and pain knocks on my front door, God seems far away. And my faith seems so weak when I am hurting.
These words of Jesus challenge me. Will I be one who perseveres in faith? Or will I be one who turns back in unbelief? In these times I echo Peter's words. I have built my life on the words of Jesus. He is the one who gives me life in times of deep sorrow. I believe that he is the Messiah, the Holy One of God. It is because of Christ that I persevere in trial.
Help me to remember Lord. And hold fast to your words. You indeed have the words of eternal life.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on the Gospel of John.
Hold fast. God is with you in whatever you go through, even if you don't see him. I often pray, "Lord I believe. Help my unbelief!" Peter was right. We have nowhere else to go. Only Jesus has the words of life.
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