கிருபையினால் மீட்பு / SALVATION BY GRACE

'ஆதவன்' வேதாகமத் தியானம் - எண்:- 1,009, நவம்பர் 02, 2023 வியாழக்கிழமை

"நாம் செய்த நீதியின் கிரியைகளினிமித்தம் அவர் நம்மை இரட்சியாமல், தமது இரக்கத்தின்படியே, மறுஜென்மமுழுக்கினாலும், பரிசுத்த ஆவியினுடைய புதிதாக்குதலினாலும் நம்மை இரட்சித்தார்." ( தீத்து 3 : 5 )

பரிசுத்தரான  தேவனின் முன்னிலையில் நாம் எல்லோருமே தூய்மையற்றவர்களே. மனிதர்களாகிய நாம் பல நீதிச் செயல்களைச்  செய்யலாம். ஆனால், அந்த நீதிச் செயல்களைப்பார்த்து அவர் நம்மை இரட்சிப்பதில்லை. காரணம், மனித நீதிகள் பலவும் அவர் பார்வையில் அழுக்கான கந்தையைப்போல இருகின்றது என்று ஏசாயா கூறுகின்றார். "நாங்கள் அனைவரும் தீட்டானவர்கள்போல இருக்கிறோம்; எங்களுடைய நீதிகளெல்லாம் அழுக்கான கந்தைபோல இருக்கிறது, நாங்கள் அனைவரும் இலைகளைப்போல் உதிருகிறோம்; எங்கள் அக்கிரமங்கள் காற்றைப்போல் எங்களை அடித்துக்கொண்டுபோகிறது." ( ஏசாயா 64 : 6 )

ஆம் தேவன் நம்மை இரட்சிப்பது நமது நீதிச் செயல்கலைப் பார்த்தோ நாம் வாழும் உண்மையான வாழ்வைப் பார்த்தோ அல்ல. அப்படிப் பார்த்தாரானால் பாவம் செய்து இனி நமக்கு இரட்சிப்பே இல்லை என்று வாழும் பாவ மனிதர்கள் தேவனை அறிய முடியாது. ஆம், அவர் பாவிகளை நேசிக்கின்ற தேவன். அவர் பாவத்தை வெறுக்கின்றார் ஆனால் பாவிகளையோ நேசிக்கின்றார். எனவேதான் அப்போஸ்தலரான பவுல் தனது சீடனான தீமோத்தேயுக்கு எழுதும்போது பின்வருமாறு கூறுகின்றார்:- 

"அவர் நம்முடைய கிரியைகளின்படி நம்மை இரட்சிக்காமல், தம்முடைய தீர்மானத்தின்படியும், ஆதிகாலமுதல் கிறிஸ்து இயேசுவுக்குள் நமக்கு அருளப்பட்ட கிருபையின்படியும், நம்மை இரட்சித்து, பரிசுத்த அழைப்பினாலே அழைத்தார்."( 2 தீமோத்தேயு 1 : 9 )

அதாவது அவர் நாம் நல்லதே செய்ததால் அவர் நம்மை இரட்சிக்கவில்லை, மாறாக நாம் அவர்மேல் விசுவாசம்கொள்ளும்போது  தனது இரக்கத்தால் நம்மை இரட்சிகின்றார். இதனையே அப்போஸ்தலரான பவுல், "கிருபையினாலே விசுவாசத்தைக் கொண்டு இரட்சிக்கப்பட்டீர்கள்; இது உங்களால் உண்டானதல்ல, இது தேவனுடைய ஈவு;" ( எபேசியர் 2 : 8 ) என்று கூறுகின்றார். 

அன்பானவர்களே, ஒருவேளை நாம்  வாழ்வில் நல்லவைகளையே செய்துகொண்டிருக்கலாம். ஆனால் அந்த நல்லச் செயல்கள் நம்மை இரட்சிக்காது. இந்த உலகத்தில் கோடிக்கணக்கான பிற மத நம்பிக்கைகொண்ட மனிதர்கள் வாழ்கின்றார்கள். அவர்களில் பலர் நல்லதே செய்து தேவ பக்தியுள்ளவர்களாக வாழ்கின்றனர். ஆனால் இரட்சிப்படைய அது போதாது. ஏற்கெனவே நாம் பார்த்தபடி அவை மனித நீதிகள். அவற்றில் பலவும் அழுக்கான கந்தையைபோன்றவை. நாம் தேவ நீதியின்படி வாழவேண்டுமானால் கர்த்தராகிய இயேசு கிறிஸ்துவை விசுவாசித்து மீட்படையவேண்டியது அவசியம்.

ஒருவேளை பாவ வாழ்க்கையே இதுவரை வாழ்ந்திருப்போமானால் கவலைப் படவேண்டாம். கிறிஸ்துவின் இரக்கத்துக்கு வேண்டுவோம். எல்லா ஜெபத்தைவிடவும்  ஒரு பாவி மனம்திரும்ப ஜெபிக்கும் ஜெபத்தை தேவன் அதிகம் விரும்புகின்றார்.   ஆம், இன்றைய தியான வசனம் கூறுவதன்படி, நாம் செய்த நீதியின் கிரியைகளினிமித்தம் அவர் நம்மை இரட்சியாமல், தமது இரக்கத்தின்படியே, மறுஜென்மமுழுக்கினாலும், பரிசுத்த ஆவியினுடைய புதிதாக்குதலினாலும் நம்மை இரட்சிக்கின்றார்.

நாம் நல்ல வாழ்க்கை வாழ்ந்தாலும், பாவ வாழ்க்கையே வாழ்ந்திருந்தாலும் அவரது கிருபைக்காக வேண்டுதல் செய்வோம். இதுவரை நாம் அனுபவித்திராத மேலான இரட்சிப்பு அனுபவத்தால் நம்மை அவர் நிரப்பி நடத்துவார். ஆம், தேவ கிருபையினால்தான் மீட்பு உண்டாகின்றது.

தேவ செய்தி:- ✍️ சகோ. எம். ஜியோ பிரகாஷ்  

'AATHAVAN' BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,009,                     Thursday, November 02, 2023

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;" (Titus 3: 5)

We are all impure in the presence of a holy God. As humans we can do many righteous deeds. But He does not save us by looking at those righteous deeds. Because Isaiah says that many human righteousnesses are like filthy rags in his eyes. "But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." (Isaiah 64: 6)

Yes, God saves us not by our righteous deeds or by the true life we live. If He look at it like that, sinful people who live in sin and think that there is no salvation for us, cannot know God. Yes, He is a God who loves sinners. He hates sin but loves sinners. That is why the Apostle Paul, when writing to his disciple Timothy, says the following: -

"Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began," (2 Timothy 1: 9)

That is, He does not save us because we have done good, but He saves us out of His mercy when we believe in Him. This is what the apostle Paul said, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:" (Ephesians 2: 8)

Beloved, perhaps we are doing good things in life. But those good works do not save us. There are millions of other religious people living in this world. Many of them do good and live pious lives. But that is not enough to be saved. As we have already seen, they are human rights. Many of them are like filthy rags. If we want to live according to God's justice, it is necessary to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved.

Don't worry if you have lived a sinful life so far. Let us pray for the mercy of Christ. God loves the prayer of a sinner's repentance above all prayer. Yes, according to today's meditation verse, He does not save us because of the works of righteousness that we have done, but according to His mercy, He saves us through regeneration and the renewal of the Holy Spirit.

Let us pray for His grace whether we have lived a good life or a sinful life. He will fill us with an experience of salvation beyond what we have ever experienced. Yes, salvation is by God's grace.

God’s Message:- ✍️ Bro. M. Geo Prakash

கிறிஸ்துவின் உடலும் இரத்தமும் / BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

 'ஆதவன்' வேதாகமத் தியானம் - எண்:- 1008, நவம்பர் 01, 2023 புதன்கிழமை

"என் மாம்சத்தைப் புசித்து, என் இரத்தத்தைப் பானம்பண்ணுகிறவன் என்னிலே நிலைத்திருக்கிறான், நானும் அவனிலே நிலைத்திருக்கிறேன்." ( யோவான் 6 : 56 )

இயேசு தேவனுடைய குமாரன் என்று விசுவாசிப்பதும் அறிவதும்தான் அவரைப் புசிப்பதும் இரத்தத்தைக் குடிப்பதும். அப்படி விசுவாசித்து ஏற்றுக்கொண்டு அவரில் நிலைத்திருக்கின்றவனே அவரோடும் நிலைத்திருப்பான். அப்படி நிலைத்திருக்கும் மனிதனிடம் நானும் வந்து தங்கியிருப்பேன் என்கின்றார் இயேசு கிறிஸ்து. 

ஆனால் அவரோடு இருந்த பலச்  சீடர்கள் இயேசு கிறிஸ்து கூறிய இன்றைய தியானத்துக்குரிய வசனத்தைக் கேட்டுத் திகைப்படைந்தார்கள். அவர்களது ஆவிக்குரிய குருட்டுத் தன்மை உண்மையினை அறியவிடாதபடி அவர்களைத் தடுத்துவிட்டது. 

"என்ன, இந்த மனிதனை நம்பி பின்பற்றினால் அவரது உடலைத் தின்று இரத்தத்தைக் குடிக்கவேண்டும் என்றுகூறுகின்றாரே? நம்மை நரமாமிசம் உண்ணும் காட்டுவாசிகள் என்று இவர் நினைத்துவிட்டாரா?"  என்று ஒருவேளை அவர்கள் எண்ணியிருப்பார்கள்.  எனவே இயேசு கூறிய வார்த்தைகளைக் கேட்டுத் திகைத்து அவரைவிட்டு விலகினார்கள். "அதுமுதல் அவருடைய சீஷரில் அநேகர் அவருடனேகூட நடவாமல் பின்வாங்கிப்போனார்கள்." ( யோவான் 6 : 66 ) என்று வாசிக்கின்றோம். 

கிறிஸ்துவின் உடலைப் புசிப்பது, அவருடைய இரத்தத்தைக் குடிப்பது என்பவை ஆவிக்குரிய அர்த்தத்தில் இயேசு கிறிஸ்து கூறியவை. "ஆவியே உயிர்ப்பிக்கிறது, மாம்சமானது ஒன்றுக்கும் உதவாது; நான் உங்களுக்குச் சொல்லுகிற வசனங்கள் ஆவியாயும் ஜீவனாயும் இருக்கிறது." ( யோவான் 6 : 63 ) என்று இயேசு கிறிஸ்துத் தெளிவுபடுத்தினார். 

அவரோடிருந்த பன்னிரண்டு சீடர்களும் இதனைப் புரிந்துகொண்டார்கள். எனவே அவர்களது சார்பில் அப்போஸ்தலரான பேதுரு கூறுகின்றார், "நீர் ஜீவனுள்ள தேவனுடைய குமாரனாகிய கிறிஸ்து என்று நாங்கள் விசுவாசித்தும் அறிந்தும் இருக்கிறோம்." ( யோவான் 6 : 69 ) ஆம், இயேசு தேவனுடைய குமாரன் என்று விசுவாசிப்பதும் அறிவதும்தான் அவரைப் புசிப்பதும் இரத்தத்தைக் குடிப்பது என்று பேதுருவும் மற்றச் சீடர்களும் அறிந்துகொண்டனர். 

ஆம் அன்பானவர்களே, நாம் கிறித்துவை தேவனுடைய குமாரன் என்று அறிந்தும் விசுவாசித்தும்   இருப்பதை  நாம் நற்கருணை உண்ணும்போது அல்லது இராப்போஜனம் எனும் பரிசுத்த பந்தியில் பங்கெடுக்கும்போது அறிக்கையிடுகின்றோம். 

ஆனால் வெறுமனே கடமைக்காக இப்படிச் செய்வோமானால் நாம் அவரை அவமதிக்கின்றோம் என்று பொருள். பரிசுத்தரான அவரை நமது வாழ்வில் பரிசுத்தமில்லாமல் நாம் ஏற்றுக்கொள்ளமுடியாது; அவரும் நம்மில் குடிவரமாட்டார். மாறாகத் தகுதியில்லாமல் அவரது உடலை உண்போமானால் நமக்கு நாமே கேடு வருவித்துக்கொள்கின்றோம் என்று  பொருள். 

"எந்த மனுஷனும் தன்னைத்தானே சோதித்தறிந்து, இந்த அப்பத்தில் புசித்து, இந்தப் பாத்திரத்தில் பானம்பண்ணக்கடவன். என்னத்தினாலெனில் அபாத்திரமாய்ப் போஜனபானம்பண்ணுகிறவன், கர்த்தருடைய சரீரம் இன்னதென்று நிதானித்து அறியாததினால், தனக்கு ஆக்கினைத்தீர்ப்பு வரும்படி போஜனபானம் பண்ணுகிறான். இதினிமித்தம், உங்களில் அநேகர் பலவீனரும் வியாதியுள்ளவர்களுமாயிருக்கிறார்கள்; அநேகர் நித்திரையும் அடைந்திருக்கிறார்கள். நம்மை நாமே நிதானித்து அறிந்தால் நாம் நியாயந்தீர்க்கப்படோம். ( 1 கொரிந்தியர் 11 : 28 - 31 )

கிறிஸ்துவின் உடலையும் இரத்தத்தையும் உண்ணுமுன் நம்மை நாமே நிதானித்துப் பார்த்துக்கொள்வோம். நமது மனச்சாட்சி குற்றமில்லை என நமக்கு உணர்த்துமானால் மட்டுமே நற்கருணை விருந்தில் பங்கெடுப்போம். 

தேவ செய்தி:- ✍️ சகோ. எம். ஜியோ பிரகாஷ்       

   BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

'AATHAVAN' BIBLE MEDITATION - No: - 1008,            Wednesday, November 01, 2023

"He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him." ( John 6 : 56 )

To believe and know that Jesus is the Son of God is to eat and drink His blood. He who thus believes and accepts, He will abide in Him and that man will abide with Jesus. Jesus Christ says that I will come and stay with the man who remains like that.

But many of the disciples who were with him were astonished to hear today’s meditational verse spoken by Jesus Christ. Their spiritual blindness prevented them from knowing the truth.

"What, does he say that if we believe and follow this man, we must eat his body and drink his blood? Does he think we are cannibalistic savages?" They probably thought that. So, when they heard Jesus' words, they were shocked and turned away from him. "From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him." (John 6: 66) we read.

Eating Christ's body and drinking His blood are what Jesus Christ said in a spiritual sense. "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." (John 6: 63) Jesus Christ made it clear.

The twelve disciples with him understood this. Therefore, the apostle Peter says on their behalf, "And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God." (John 6: 69) Yes, Peter and the other disciples learned that to believe and know that Jesus is the Son of God is to eat and drink His blood.

Yes, beloved, we confess that we know and believe that Christ is the Son of God when we eat the Eucharist or partake of the Holy Supper.

But if we do this simply out of duty, it means that we are dishonouring Him. We cannot accept Him who is holy without holiness in our lives; He also will not come among us. On the contrary, if we eat his body without merit, it means that we are harming ourselves.

"But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged." (1 Corinthians 11: 28 - 31)

Before we partake of Christ's body and blood, let's take care of ourselves. Let us partake of the Eucharistic meal only if our consciences clear us of guilt.

God’s Message:- ✍️ Bro. M. Geo Prakash

BIBLE PEARLS - OCTOBER 2023

 

                            - Bro. M. GEO PRAKASH

AATHAVAN 🔥 977🌻 October 01, 2023 Sunday

"The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God." ( Psalms 92 : 12, 13 )

We can find palm trees in abundance in Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Ramanathapuram districts of Tamil Nadu. If you look at palm trees, they don't look prosperous. As they grow in dry areas, they remain desiccated.

This verse suddenly came to my mind when I was traveling in a bus once when I was working in Sattankulam. It was a November month. It had rained so well that all the sights were green. The area was green with banana trees, peanuts and pulses cultivated. But I wondered what the same area would be like in April and May. Yes, it will look like a desert in April and May. We can see nothing but palm trees.

Yes, today's verse says that the righteous will be like this palm tree. The palm tree thrives in the face of severe drought and water scarcity. Likewise, the righteous will endure any trials and prosper in the Lord. Not only that, it is during the dry season that the palm tree helps others by giving them delicious neera. And all parts of the palm tree are useful to people. A righteous man who abides in the Lord will be useful like this to all people. That is why the scripture compares the palm tree to the righteous man.

And it is said, "He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon." Cedar wood is a solid and expensive wood, just as we consider teak to be solid and valuable in our regions. We read that when Solomon built the temple for God, he built it with cedar woods. Just as teak wood has stood the test of time without decaying over the centuries, so have cedar planks. So, it is told as a parable to the righteous.

But the wicked are like grass. That is, they seem to live prosperously, but that prosperity is short-lived. Though we find greeneries during the rainy season we do not see any of the green crops around the palm tree in the summer. They would have disappeared without knowing where they were.

This is what the psalmist says, "For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be." (Psalms 37: 10) Yea, they shall be empty in the sight of God, as the palm tree in the rainy months has lost all its luxuriance. That is, in the eyes of the world they appear to be prosperous, but in the eyes of God they are nothing.

The second part of today's verse is, “those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God." That is, those who are firmly planted with the Lord are the righteous mentioned in the scriptures. They will flourish in God's courts like the palm tree and the cedar tree. By living a righteous life in union with God we will live as steadfastly as the palm tree and the cedar; Let us benefit others.

AATHAVAN 🔥 978🌻 October 02, 2023 Monday

"If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:" ( John 8 : 54 )

Seeking honour is an aspect of conceit. The thought that I am superior to everyone and everyone else is lesser than me makes one get proud. Politicians are usually like this. That is, they think that being superior to others will show us as a leader to the world.

So, they make posters and other advertisements to glorify themselves and give themselves various epithets and titles. But Jesus Christ says that it is vain or nothing to glorify oneself in this way. God should glorify us by seeing our good deeds, truth and holiness. This is what Jesus says, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me.

The apostle Paul says the same thing. "For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth." ( 2 Corinthians 10 : 18 ) That is, he who praises himself cannot be good.

We see that God highly exalted our Lord Jesus Christ as he humbled himself to the position of a slave. Yes, "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2: 9-11)

The apostle Paul says that if one wants to glory, one must seek glory in the Lord. "But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." (2 Corinthians 10: 17) The reason is that Paul, who had a lot of spiritual experiences, says that it is a glorious thing to have such an experience. (2 Corinthians 12:2-5)

Beloved, many who ruled as great kings retained their pride and glory only for a short time. But we have remembered many saints who humbled themselves even after centuries. Many of them have been elevated to venerable status. Because God the Father glorified them after seeing their humility.

Although the Jews worshiped God, they could not understand Him and His attributes. That is why Jesus Christ said, "You call Him your God." Yes, telling Him as our God is nothing; Rather we are called to recognize and reflect Him and His attributes. When we reflect like that, God the Father will also glorify us. Yes, we don't need to glorify ourselves with self-promotions.

AATHAVAN 🔥 979🌻 October 03, 2023 Tuesday

"That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!" (Isaiah 30: 2)

Egypt represents our old sinful life. Just as Moses rescued the people of Israel from the slavery of the Egyptians and led them to Canaan, the Lord Jesus Christ rescues us from the slavery of sin and leads us to the eternal heavenly Canaan.

When Moses led the people of Israel straight to Canaan, God gave them a commandment "not to go back to Egypt". But the people were angry with Moses because they were interested in the prosperity of Egypt and the benefits they enjoyed there. They tried to make a leader for themselves and go back to Egypt. They grumbled against God.

"And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt? And they said one to another, let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt." (Numbers 14: 3, 4)

 

After knowing Christ, we can no longer do many of the old things. Because if we want to live in Christ, we have to make some sacrifices. These are what we call the experience of bearing the cross. The life we lived before we knew Christ was known to us as a life of pleasure. For that reason, if we turn away from Christ, it means we are returning to Egypt. Woe to the unruly sons who go to Egypt to hide in the shadow of Egypt! says the Lord.

God reiterates this through Isaiah.  "Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!" (Isaiah 31: 1)

We should not turn away from Christ and go straight to the old sinful life just because worldly blessings are available. It is said here that "horses and chariots”.  These are allegories of prosperity. People in those days owned horses, camels, and chariots just like we own expensive cars today. Woe to those who turn away from Jesus to get worldly things after knowing Christ! This verse says.

Therefore, dear ones, without looking to the Holy One of Israel and seeking the Lord, why do we get worldly blessings. If we go straight to the old life of Egypt, we will not be blessed; Today's verse advises that curse will come on them. Yes, let's keep ourselves from going back to Egypt.

AATHAVAN 🔥 980🌻 October 04, 2023 Wednesday

"For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would." ( Galatians 5 : 17 )

The apostle Paul is referring here to a struggling spiritual life. We want to live a life worthy of God and live a holy life. But the various lusts of this world pull us. That is, the desires of our flesh pull us away from living the life we want to live for God. This is, "these things are contrary to one another, lest you cannot do the things which you want to do" Paul mentions.

The apostle Paul explains the reasons for this. That is, man is not good by nature. So even if we want to do good, we cannot do good. "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. (Romans 7: 18) Because of this contradiction, “For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.” (Romans 7:19).

Beloved, we must have the Holy Spirit to work in us to overcome this conflict. We must surrender ourselves completely to Him. We should inform God of our inability. "Lord, I want to live a holy life worthy of you, but I am not able to do it. God help me to remove my weakness and give me your Spirit to do your will”.

Only when God's Spirit comes into us can we live a pure life according to Him. "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." (Romans 8: 9) We are spiritual Christians only when we live in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Otherwise, we will remain empty worship Christians. When we live like this, it means that Christ is in us. "And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness." (Romans 8: 10)

Beloved, mere rituals cannot make the Holy Spirit come and work in you. Only when we thirst can the Spirit's anointing fill us and make us pure. "For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:" (Isaiah 44: 3) says the Lord God.

"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" (Luke 11: 13) As Jesus Christ says, let us pray; Let us get the Holy Spirit.

AATHAVAN 🔥 981🌻 October 05, 2023 Thursday

And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season……… Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing. (Luke 23: 8,9)

Today's verse gives us an important message. We may have heard many things about Jesus Christ; We may have heard many testimonies of the miracles he performed. Such news may have given us a mental interest in him. But he will not answer us if we seek him for mere glamor without true repentance.

Herod had been longing to see him for a long time. When he saw him like that, he was very happy and asked him about many things. Today's verse says that, he longed to see him was not because of a change of heart; Instead, “he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.” (Luke 23:8, 9) it is said.

Jesus was a famous man at that time and hence he wanted to see him, not out of true love. His heart was already filled with the desire to kill Jesus. In the eyes of Jesus Christ, he is like a fox; hypocrite. That is why when some Pharisees came to Jesus Christ three days ago and said to him, "go away from here, for Herod is intent on killing you,"

For this Jesus replied, “Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected. Nevertheless, I must walk to day, and tomorrow, and the day following: for it cannot be that a prophet perishes out of Jerusalem." (Luke 13: 33)

Herod was truly like a fox, as Jesus said. Not only that, he was immersed in a wicked life. He took his brother’s wife and lived with her. Even when John the Baptist pointed it out, he did not repent but killed John the Baptist to fulfil her wishes. His heart was filled with adultery, murder, and lust for power. But now when he saw Jesus, he was very happy and asked him about many things.

We know that David, who committed the same sins, repented, and asked God for forgiveness and received God's mercy. But Herod did not feel such guilty.

Beloved, if we confess our sins and ask Him for forgiveness, He will answer us. He intercedes for us and fulfils our prayers even if we are aware of our sins. On the contrary, if we think that he will give us an answer by just by listening to the many witnesses about the miracles he performed without any guilt or remorse of our sins like Herod, he will not give us any answer.

AATHAVAN 🔥 982🌻 October 06, 2023 Friday

"O LORD, though our iniquities testify against us, do thou it for thy name's sake: for our backslidings are many; we have sinned against thee." (Jeremiah 14: 7)

Today's verse is a prayer that we all should pray to God. No matter how good we want to live, we sin against God without knowing ourselves. We cannot differentiate major sin or minor sin; When we behave against the will of God, we sin.

Many people think they are sinless because they do not do murder, rape, theft etc.; Others consider themselves to be sinless because they do not have the habit of alcohol, beedi, cigarettes, betel nuts, or drugs. But there are people in all religions who do not do them by nature.

Dear brothers and sisters, but when we do not respect others; when we treat the underprivileged lightly; we have status ego; when hostile thoughts arise in us; when making a complaint to higher authorities about our colleagues in office or work spot; when we have qualities like jealousy and unforgiveness; when pride arises; We sin.

Jeremiah did not commit any of the sins that men usually consider to be major sins. But he prays, “though our iniquities testify against us, do thou it for thy name's sake: for our backslidings are many; we have sinned against thee”.

This sense of sin and its confession was in all the saints and those who loved righteousness. When King David confessed his sins, he said, "Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest." (Psalms 51: 4)

It is necessary for all of us to live with this feeling if we want to grow in a close relationship with God. Going to church as a duty, praying, reading the scriptures, and attending prayer meetings will not do us any spiritual good; by these acts, we cannot experience the presence of God in us.

As today's meditation verse says, when we confess our sins and pray for His forgiveness, He will show us His grace and mercy, no matter how many our iniquities testify against us.

AATHAVAN 🔥 983🌻 October 07, 2023 Saturday

"Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God." ( 2 Corinthians 1 : 4 )

Jesus Christ said that we have tribulation in this world. "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16: 33) Tribulations test us; Suffering is a way for us to become Christ like. In today's verse, the apostle Paul explains another reason for tribulations.

"That we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble." That is, people are experiencing various kinds of suffering in this world. He says, that God gives us sufferings so that we become worthy to comfort those people.

This is why our Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross. This is what we read in the Epistle to the Hebrews, "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4: 15) we read. Yes, he was tempted in every way as we are. "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted." (Hebrews 2: 18)

There is a proverb that says, 'You know the pain of headache and a fever only when you get it'. That is, we may give advice to others; but only the real pain is understood by the person counselling others, he can provide good comfort to others. If we give vain advice, suffering people will take it as empty advice.

Today's verse also says that even if we suffer, God will also comfort us. That is, "He comforts us in all our troubles." Paul said. God first gives us troubles and then comforts us so that we may be fit to be used as instruments of comfort to men, so that we may also comfort suffering men.

That is, God does not just make us study books only; On the contrary, he is qualifying us like a student preparing for a science exam is getting practical training. As God trains us in this way, we who comfort others also become better. "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." (James 1: 12)

May we endure trials patiently and become instruments of comfort and encouragement to others.

AATHAVAN 🔥 984🌻 October 08, 2023 Sunday

"Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed." (Hebrews 12: 12,13)

We who live a spiritual life are sometimes punished by God. Being punished like that is a sign that God loves us. It means that He treats us as His own children. "If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?" (Hebrews 12: 7) We punish our children when they do wrong. If we don't punish them like that, those children will not be able to walk in a good way.

Most families today have only one or two children. So, parents give them more pampering. This is the reason why many children today make various mistakes in schools and society. Yes, children who are not disciplined properly cannot live a good life.

Today's meditation verse is said in this background. This will be understood if we continue reading this twelfth chapter from the fifth verse.

When we are punished by God like this, we get tired. Hence, it is advised that "make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

This verse says that we may be tired because God has punished us, so we should straighten our tired hands and knees and refine our ways so that they don't crumble. Yes, we should reflect on our actions and find out why God has punished us and correct our ways.

When I was a boy, a family lived opposite to our house. The father of the family would severely punish the children even for minor mistakes. Sometimes he would tie up his errant children without feeding them from morning till night. When the children come to play with us, they say, "It would be better if our father died." But today all children are in good high positions. Now they speak highly of their father. “It is because our father brought us up that way that we are good today."

This does not mean that we should all be like the arrogant father, aforesaid; rather we should discipline and nurture our children when they make mistakes. "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." (Hebrews 12: 11)

Let us be patient and correct ourselves when God punishes.

AATHAVAN 🔥 985🌻 October 09, 2023 Monday

"Nevertheless, the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul." (Acts 27: 11)

They took the prisoner apostle Paul and some other prisoners with them on a ship to Rome, under the command of the king.  Julius, a centurion, escorted Paul with some soldiers. The centurion Julius was friendly to Paul because he respected him. "And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself." (Acts 27: 3)

The sea voyage was very distressing and stormy. They crossed the storm with a hard struggle and reached the port called Fair Harbour. But Paul, who received God's warning, warned the captain and the centurion, it is not good for further sea voyage at present. But “the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul."

Although the centurion treated Paul in a friendly manner, he had a low opinion of Paul. After all, Paul was a prisoner, a person of modest appearance, ignorant of sea voyages and climate changes. So, he didn't believe Paul. Conversely, sailors are well experienced; who have travelled many thousand miles in sea; those who know well the direction of the wind and the nature of the waves in the sea. Therefore, he thought that what they were saying would be correct.

Many people in the world today are like the centurion mentioned in today's verse. We honour God’s servants but ignore the words spoken through them. Many times, we trust the words and skills of experienced people rather than the words of divine beings.

But what happened? A tempestuous wind called Euroclydon collided with the ship and capsized the ship. But God wanted to honour his servant, Paul. So, before the shipwreck, He gave a message to Paul to inform to those on board. Hence, Paul encouraged others by saying that, "For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee." (Acts 27: 23, 24)

Yes, dear ones, honouring God’s servants is not just giving money and gifts. But, believing their words; respecting them and correcting ourselves; believing in God's words rather than circumstances and the words of experienced people. If not, we will be like Julius the centurion. Let's believe God's words; Let's keep our life ship not being overturned by the tempestuous wind  Euroclydon.

AATHAVAN 🔥 986🌻 Tuesday, October 10, 2023

"The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:" ( 2 Peter 2 : 9 )

Today's verse is a verse that can be understood without much explanation. That is, God frees the pious from trials; He destroys the wicked who do not repent of their mistakes.

The apostle Peter cites the example of Lot from Genesis to explain this. That is what we see in the previous verse of today's verse, "For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;" ( 2 Peter 2 : 8 )

Sin was rampant in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Especially, sexual sins. The men there were homosexuals. In the above verse, we read that the righteous Lot was pained in his heart seeing and hearing those sins. God decided to destroy those cities because of the increase in sin. But there lived the righteous Lot.

So, the messengers God sent to destroy the city came to Lot and told him God's plan and asked him to get out of there. Not only that, but God willed to save his blood relatives for his sake. Therefore, the men said to Lot: "Hast thou here any besides? son in law, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and whatsoever thou hast in the city, bring them out of this place: For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.” (Genesis 19: 12, 13)

Beloved, when God tries to destroy an entire city, we see God trying to save a righteous family there. Here we are given the message that we should not commit a wrong and sinful act that everyone is doing.

Perhaps our neighbours and relatives may do some things against God; They may be fine with worldly prosperity. After seeing that, we should not deceive ourselves that those who do such things are doing well and hence that there is nothing wrong doing like them. Yes, there was only one righteous Lot in the two great cities; He was saved from perishing.

Yes, so let us guard ourselves with God's words in our hearts. The Lord knows how to save the godly from trial and to reserve the wicked for the day of judgment.

AATHAVAN 🔥 987🌻 Wednesday, October 11, 2023

"But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away." (1 Corinthians 13: 10)

No one born in this world is flawless. By saying like this, I am not referring to economic deficiency; On the contrary, I am talking about deficiency in human qualities. We intend to fill our deficiencies. But the circumstances of this world make us more and more poor in qualities. 

Today various institutes provide various trainings to improve human beings. Psychological trainings, Counselling trainings, Personality development trainings etc. are provided. But such trainings may produce a man fit for men but never God-men.

One can only give to others what he has. It is not acceptable to impart qualities that one does not possess through book practice. Not all these trainers are without flaws; They do organize training programmes as a profession. Or they do it for money received from abroad.

Only our Lord Jesus Christ is perfect. He alone can make us better people. As he was in the image of God, he had to transform as men to guide them. Being God, He had a flaw in this matter. That is, He did not experience human suffering while being God. Therefore, it was necessary for him to suffer and be perfected like men if he was to bring comfort and redemption to men. Therefore, he was perfected through sufferings.

"Though he were a Son, yet learned obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec." ( Hebrews 5 : 8-10 )

Therefore, as we have seen earlier, only one who is perfect can give perfection to others, Christ is the perfect one to make us perfect. So only when He comes into a man can, he become complete. That is today's meditation verse says, “when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”

Yes beloved, only when the perfect Jesus Christ comes in us will our deficiencies be removed. We will become new and full when He comes in us in qualities, economy, and lack of health.

Let us ask the fullness of Jesus Christ to come into our hearts; Let us surrender our hearts completely to Him. Then, not only we but those around us will realize that today's meditation verse is fulfilled in us.

AATHAVAN 🔥 988🌻 October 12, 2023 Thursday

"Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God." (Isaiah 50: 10)

Prophet Isaiah was the one who gave the most prophecies about the Lord Jesus Christ. Today's meditation verse is also prophetic advice about Jesus Christ. Light represents God. "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." (1 John 1: 5)

In today's meditation verse, Jesus Christ is referred to as the Servant of God. The Lord says that if one does not yet see the true light of Jesus Christ in himself, that wicked person should believe in him and join with him. That is, he should realize his sins and join Jesus. Because "That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." (John 1: 9)

But, according to the verse, "For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved." (John 3: 20) many people hesitate to come to the light, Jesus.

Jesus Christ does not cast away those who come to Him. So, he makes any man enlightened when he comes to him. That's why today's verse says, “that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God." Because such a man will be enlightened.

But most men hesitate to come to Him who is the true light. The reason is because the men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." (John 3: 19)

Beloved, even if we have billions of possessions in the world, they are no substitute for the true peace that Christ gives. Only He who is light has that peace of mind. Even though we are rich, if we do not have peace of mind, it is necessary for us to reflect on our ways and turn our hearts directly to Him who shall make us a true light. That is why the Lord gives today's advice through Isaiah, “that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God."

People who walk in darkness because of the lack of light, should believe in the name of the Lord and commit themselves to him. Then the words, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” (Isaiah 9: 2) will happen to us in our life.

Yes, Jesus gives you the peace you seek; He has the freedom you seek.

AATHAVAN 🔥 989🌻 Friday, October 13, 2023

"Beloved, stand firm in your most holy faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." (Jude 1:21)

Generally we all pray to God. But the apostle Jude gives us some advice as to what our prayers should be.

The first speaks of faith. That is, we must have faith that if we pray, we will receive what we ask for. Jesus Christ also mentioned this. "Therefore, I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." ( Mark 11 : 24 ) Judas says that he should confirm this before praying.

Next, our prayers must be spiritual. Prayer is not mere mouthing. Our heart should be united with God. It should come from the heart. Pour your heart into the presence of God like Anna. (1 Samuel 1:15)

Thirdly, it says, "Keep yourselves in the love of God." That means all our activities should be as God wants. "We love God by keeping His commandments; His commandments are not grievous." (1 John 5:3)

Finally it says, "Wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." Our Lord Jesus Christ is the life. He is the giver of endless life. So that Christ has mercy on us and says to wait patiently to answer our prayer.

That is, in short, to live a life acceptable to God, to pray with faith and wholeheartedly, and wait for Him to answer.

Even in this world when we apply for something in a government office we have to wait. We cannot expect a solution to our petition by going to the government office the next day after sending the petition. But our God knows our needs well. Some of our needs are important. In such cases an immediate response is required. In such a situation he will reply immediately.

For example, when we pray for someone who is dying, we cannot wait for months. Then he can give an immediate answer. But we can learn from the life history that the mothers of some saints say that their son who lived in sin prayed for ten to fifteen years to repent.

So, beloved, let us pray according to the counsel of the apostle Jude. Let's wait patiently for God's answer.

AATHAVAN 🔥 990🌻 October 14, 2023 Saturday

"For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock." (Psalms 27: 5)

In today's verse, David expresses his faith in God. When wars, diseases and other natural calamities occur in this world, many of us are troubled. Think of the Corona crisis. Every day the news of death of many people who were with us was attacking us. Many of our relatives and friends died. But in today's verse David says with firm faith, “in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock." 

Yes, today's verse says that He will not only hide us in His tent and protect us in the day of harm, but He will lift us up after saving us.

For David to say this, he had a faith in his life lived according to God. Because he who wrote this psalm also wrote the 15th psalm. In it he says, "Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour." (Psalms 15: 1-3)

He knew who would dwell in the tabernacle of the Lord. He searched his heart and knew that his life was like that. Therefore, because he does not have such wicked deeds, he says with faith that the Lord will hide him in his tabernacle, hide him in the secret of his tent, and lift him up on the rock. As he said, God protected him and made him king over Israel.

Beloved, God has no partiality. If he did this to David, he will surely do the same to us. It is enough if we only have the qualifications that He has told us to stay in God's tabernacle

Not only that, but in the first verse of today's meditation psalm, he says, "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalms 27: 1)

Yes beloved, let us say with faith as David said, The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall, I fear? He is my fortress, whom shall, I fear? He will hide me in his tabernacle, hide me in his shelter, and lift me up on the rock. Amen.

AATHAVAN 🔥 991🌻 Sunday, October 15, 2023

"…Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth.If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub." (Luke 11: 17,18)

In today's world we see divisions among men and also among  the Christians. Although we all accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our savior, every Christian church sect considers others as insignificant.

But in contrast to this situation of Christians, unity among Satan is noteworthy. That is, there is division among people who accept God and unity among Satan who do not accept God.

The Jews who did not believe in Jesus Christ chasing the devils said that he is chasing the devils with the leader of the devils called Beelzebub. In response to them, Jesus Christ says today's verse. How can Satan's kingdom stand if he is divided against himself? Jesus Christ asks.

That is, the unity of Satan is the reason for Satan's kingdom to exist. If there was no unity among them, Satan's kingdom would have perished. Beloved, it is evident that there is no such unity among Christians today. However, this division exists in the time of Paul the Apostle.

"Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?" ( 1 Corinthians 1 : 12, 13 )

Shouldn't we say the above verse as follows according to the custom of this time? "Some of you say: I am of R.C Church, I am of C.S.I Church, I am of Pentecostal, (there are many more denominations among them and many are proud to claim them) I am of Salvation Army, and I of Christ. Is Christ divided?". Statistics show that there are more than 2,500 denominations of Christian churches worldwide today. But Satan's kingdom is one.

We Christians do not know as the devils that we can only stand if we are united. Church denominations cannot save us. We do not know the basic truth that only the Lord Jesus Christ can save us. But the devils know that. So, they have strengthened their kingdom by dividing men into congregations.

Yet there are many in the world who are firmly committed to the true Christian faith. Nothing can be done by Satan against them. They are the true Christians in union with Christ today. It is because of the unity of such Christ-knowing Christians that Christ is actively functioning in the world today. As this unity grows stronger, Satan's kingdom weakens. Yes, beloved, let us grow in Christian love with a sense of brotherhood, regardless of the denomination we belong to; Let us believe in Christ rather than churches. Let us love Christ.

AATHAVAN 🔥 992🌻 October 16, 2023 Monday

"Great in counsel, and mighty in work: for thine eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings:" (Jeremiah 32: 19)

Today's verse begins by talking about our God and His power and warns us that He will show this power when He judges men.

God is watching all our deeds, as He said, " thine eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings” He will judge us on that basis.

But without realizing this, there are many people who sing loudly as "God give me power" and want to gain fame among people by doing miracles like Jesus Christ.

Yes, dear ones, why we need real power is to be freed from sin. We cannot live a sinless life without the power of God's Spirit. Our mortal body must be quickened by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is what the apostle Paul said, "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." (Romans 8: 11)

We cannot deceive God who is great in thought and mighty in action. He does not take our worship practices or devotional efforts seriously. It is useless to repeat certain mantras without our heart being united with Him. There is no point in reciting the prayers that some tell as the mighty prayer.

Other religious people say that certain words create a vibration in us and therefore certain mantras bring God closer to us. It is not important to vibrate our body, the Holy Spirit should work in our hearts. We must attain holiness according to God. Hatred of sins should arise in us.

So, we need to be cautious. Doing things contrary to what the Bible says does not make us acceptable to God. He will reward only what is worthy of him and according to the fruit of ones deeds. "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Revelation 22: 12) says the Lord Jesus Christ. With the help of the Spirit, let us make our ways and actions acceptable to God.

AATHAVAN 🔥 993🌻 Tuesday, October 17, 2023

"Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." (Matthew 24: 42)

The start of the Israel-Palestine war was a celebration for many Christian ministers. They are showing their genius by mixing their Vedic knowledge with worldly knowledge by posting videos every day. What do they really say about the second coming of Jesus? Nothing else, the coming of the Lord is near, they say. It is true that the Bible mentions the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in many places; Jesus Christ has also clearly said about it.

Jesus Christ said, "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 24: 44) That means he is sure to come. So, we should always be ready to meet him. We should be ready not because the Israel-Palestine war came. Many Christian pastors cry out "Get ready for the coming …., get ready" just like a teacher who doesn't teach the lesson cries out before the inspector arrives.

Does preparing for coming of Jesus mean preparing as if we were preparing to travel somewhere? Many people do not explain about it. Dear brothers, it makes no sense to preach worldly blessings all year long and shouting “get ready” now as you see this war.

Israel-Palestine war is happening as predicted in the scriptures and it confirms our faith in God. But the scriptures have already said what the believers should do before the arrival. The apostle Paul said, "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians‍ 5: 23). That is, our spirit, soul, and body must be preserved blameless when He comes. This is what it means to be prepared.

Also, knowing that day, when Jesus Christ said, "But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." (Mark 13: 32) Since Jesus Christ Himself said that He did not know, we mere mortals do not need to inquire about it. It is important that we be ready to face him when he comes.

As early as the time of the apostles, people were expecting the second coming of Jesus Christ. "You are teaching like this for long, why hasn't he come yet?" they asked the apostles. That is why the apostle Peter explained it in his epistle, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3: 9).

Not because Israel started the Palestine war, but let us always keep our spirit, soul, and body blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Yea, "For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day." ( Luke 17 : 24 )

 AATHAVAN 🔥 994🌻 Wednesday, October 18, 2023

"For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell." (Psalms 86: 13)

We read about God's grace in various places in the Bible. But the greater grace is God forgiving our sins and keeping us away from them. David knew this from his experience. That is why he says, “thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell."

God's grace is what sustains us in our weaknesses. This is what God explained to the apostle Paul, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12: 9) We are all weak. At various times we fall into sin. But because God is full of grace in forgiveness, He forgives us and allows us to live.

That's why David in today's meditation psalm chapter before today's meditation verse in verse 5 says "For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee." (Psalms 86: 5)

"And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 John 2: 2)

The apostle Paul says that this is what God entrusted to them. "To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation." (2 Corinthians 5: 19) God can forgive the sins of the people of the world. But people need to be made aware of their wrong sinful ways. That is why God uses them, says Paul.

It took a prophet Nathan to make David aware of the sins of adultery and subsequent murder. David realized that. Therefore, he says that by His grace God saved his soul to destruction. Hence, “great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell" he says.

Beloved, no matter how much wealth we have, it will not help us other than this worldly life. We can gain this world with money, but if we lose our soul, it will be of no use. "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16: 26)

Let us ask God to give us a heart of understanding. Only then will our inner qualities be revealed to us. Only then can we realize our weaknesses and sins. Only then can we get God's forgiveness. Let's realize our sins and ask for God's forgiveness and thank Him. Let us say like David, "Thank you, Lord, for you have saved my soul from the depths of hell."

AATHAVAN 🔥 995🌻 October 19, 2023 Thursday

"Therefore, will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53: 12)

Today's meditation verse is the words that God the Father revealed to Prophet Isaiah about the Lord Jesus Christ. We read in today's verse, “because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." We are one of those transgressors. He prayed for us too. That is why we have the redemption experience today.

But seeing that Jesus Christ suffered, many people of his time thought wrongly. Yes, they thought he was being punished by God. That is why Isaiah said, "Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted." (Isaiah 53: 4)

What we see with our eyes and hear with our ears is not always completely true. We do not know the true background of many things. This is the case with many of the news that appear in the newspapers today. There is a difference between daily press reports and actual situation. Investigative Journals bring out such hidden messages.

Isaiah explains with his investigative vision that the people of that day thought wrongly seeing the suffering of Jesus Christ in this way. This is, “yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted." That is, we thought so but it is not true, rather, He says, "Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows"

And, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53: 6) we read.

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.' (Isaiah 53: 5)

Thus, he put his soul to death, and being numbered among the unrighteous, and bearing the sin of many, and praying for the unrighteous, saith God the Father. Beloved, as we read this, let us consider how grateful we should be to the Lord Jesus Christ.

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers’ miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?" (Hebrews 2: 3,4)

Let us pray by giving ourselves completely to Him. May the Lord bless us.

AATHAVAN 🔥 996🌻 Friday, October 20, 2023

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men' ( 1 Timothy 2 : 1 )

In today's meditation, the apostle Paul gives us an important advice. That's why he calls it the main thing. That means we should not always pray only for ourselves but we should make requests, prayers, supplications and praises for all people.

This will seem like a strange process to many of us. Some may think, "We don't have time to pray for ourselves and our families, so how can we pray for everyone?"

Everyone in this world is relative. The reason is that God is the Father of us all. So, when we pray for others, we are automatically in a way praying for ourselves. Following today's verse, Paul writes, "For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." (1 Timothy 2: 2)

In other words, if we want to live peacefully in this country, the we should pray for all the officials and head of the country. Therefore, when we pray for them, we find peace. Problems in the country are solved.

Moreover, we have come to know the Lord Jesus Christ. It is not enough we alone know Him. All must know Christ and be saved. When everyone is saved like that, there will be peace automatically. Yes, "Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." ( 1 Timothy 2 : 4 ) So we must pray for everyone.

We cannot live alone in this world. Count each item that we use everyday. None of these could have existed if we were alone in this world. Yes, we are enjoying the fruits of labour of various people. This is one of the reasons why the apostle Paul said to pray for everyone.

Let us expand the scope of our prayer. Instead of praying only for ourselves, let us make supplications, prayers, supplications, and thanksgivings for all men, according to the advice of the apostle Paul. Then we can live in a peaceful country without problems.

AATHAVAN 🔥 997🌻 Saturday, October 21, 2023

"Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;" (2 Corinthians 3: 5)

We can do many things in this world better with our skills. Although we humans do many worldly things well, when we live a spiritual life, we cannot do many things as before because God started guiding us after we knew Him. Moreover, when we are guided by God, we need His help even in worldly affairs. Because then we come to know the fact that our strength is not our ability but His presence.

When a company chooses its employees, it selects and hires the best talent. But our Lord does not look at talent. He chooses the incompetent and the insignificant and uses them for himself. Disciples of Christ who did not have much education were responsible for the spread of Christ's teachings throughout the world today.

Educated and uneducated ministered to Christ; are doing. The reason is the Spirit working within them. That is why the apostle Paul said, “we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;"

Yes, many Christian workers are looked down upon by the people in the area they live in. But because God uses them "And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:" (1 Corinthians 1: 28) is true even today they are proving it.

Beloved, today we may be slighted by other people, relatives and friends. Our competence may be underestimated in the workplace. In such a situation, when we surrender ourselves completely to God and seek His help, God is able to help us and qualify us in every way.

Yea, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts."(Zechariah 4: 6)

So it is imperative that we pray for His wisdom to excel in our worldly and spiritual affairs. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” ( James 1 : 5 )

Yes, beloved, we are not worthy to think of anything as if we could; our worthiness is from God. When this thought comes to us, we become humble; Qualities like pride and arrogance will disappear.

Let's forget self-worth; Let us pray for God's grace for our strength, merit and God's wisdom.

AATHAVAN 🔥 998🌻 Sunday, October 22, 2023

"But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ." (Ephesians 2: 13)

Scripture compares the relationship between Christ and us as believers to a marriage relationship. Before we marry someone we have nothing to do with them and their family. But after marriage with him we become close relatives with them. We are family relatives.

In the same way, we used to live wickedly without knowing Christ and were distant from Him. But now we are close to Christ after being washed by His blood and knowing Him.

Thus when we were distant from him we had no right to his property; we made no covenant with him; we lacked firm belief in God; Above all we had no God.

This is what the apostle Paul said, "That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:" ( Ephesians 2 : 12 )

"Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (1 Peter 2: 10)

Paul, who was telling how the present situation became possible for us, says, "Now you have come near by the blood of Christ." That is, He says that we have this opportunity because of His shed blood on the cross.

Beloved, because we are so close to God, we can live with faith today. It is necessary for us to maintain this position. Otherwise, we will become distant from him as before; we will be like orphans without faith. Not only that, but we will be far away from eternal life. So let's continue to hold on to faith.

That is why the author of Hebrews warns, "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God." (Hebrews 3: 12) Yes, "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;" (Hebrews 3: 14) only then will we be eligible for the rights we have already read about.

AATHAVAN 🔥 999🌻 Monday, October 23, 2023

“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;” (Ephesians 4: 11)

In today's meditation, the apostle Paul talks about the five types of ministry that God has established. God planned to build the kingdom of God in the world by establishing ministries such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers.

Though there are five types of ministry and the purpose of all types of ministry is the same. That is, "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:"( Ephesians 4 : 14, 15 )

In order for us not to be swept away like waves by various winds of deceitful and false teachings, He has established such ministries that we may grow up in Christ, who is the head, in all things, holding on to love and truth.

In other words, God established such ministries so that somehow people would know God and live a life suitable to Him and thus attain eternal life. Evangelists travel and preach the gospel among different peoples. The souls they gain are cared for by pastors and pastors. Prophets promote faith and turn people away from the wrong path. Apostolic servants confirm apostolic teaching.

Beloved, our main concern today is not about these various ministries. On the contrary, it is necessary to realize how much God loves people. As the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, "Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."(1 Timothy 2: 4)

If all men are to be saved, these various types of service are necessary. If there are only church services, people outside the church will not come to the church to seek God by themselves.

Yes beloved, if God has done this because somehow all people want to know Him, how faithful we must be to Him!! So it is our duty to announce the Lord Jesus as much as we can.

Evangelism is something we all can do. Let us proclaim Christ by our lives and words as much as we can. Let's gather souls into right congregations and help them grow in spiritual life. We should have the desire that all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.

AATHAVAN DAILY MEDITATION No:- 1,000                                     Tuesday October 24, 2023

"I that speak unto thee am he." ( John 4 : 26 )

The Aathavan daily meditation, which has been published continuously for the past three years, completes its 1000th meditation today. I praise the Lord Jesus Christ with gratitude for the grace to continue this meditation.

Today's meditation verse, "I that speak unto thee am he." is a very small one, but this verse has turned many to know the Lord. A friend of mine is a Hindu. But at an early age he had a desire to know who the real God is. He continued to study the holy books of many religions. Finally reading the scriptures today's verse spoke to him. "Son, I am He who is talking to you. You are wandering somewhere trying to know the true God, and I who am talking to you now is the one you are looking for".

Beloved, he gave himself to Christ that very day and is now ministering. Why should we know Christ as true God? Worship with garlands and fragrant incense sticks like other deities? No. Jesus Christ says, "For if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins." (John 8: 24)

Jesus spoke today's verse to the Samaritan woman. She was living a life of prostitution. She already had five husbands; the one who is with her now is also not her husband. This was her life. But the Lord Jesus Christ, who came in search of sinners, revealed himself to her. My daughter said, "I am he that speaketh unto thee."

Beloved, He will reveal Himself to us if we look to Him with a longing to know the true God and to have our sins forgiven. He not only forgives our sins but also changes our lives.

Not only in the New Testament, but also in the Old Testament, it was our Lord Jesus Christ who spoke to the devotees. He was not born just 2000 years ago. Yes, God says through the prophet Isaiah, "Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God." (Isaiah 44: 6)

"Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last."(Isaiah 48: 12) He is the former and the latter. Let us commit ourselves to Him. The reason why many people today do not believe in Christ as God is because they consider him to have been born only two thousand years ago. Yes dears, let us change this thought; Let us know the truth. If we do not believe that He was the forerunner, we will die in our sins as Christ said. He will reveal Himself to us if we try to know Him. He will bless us by saying, "Son, daughter, I am the one who speaks to you"; He will lead.

🌿'AATHAVAN' Meditation No.1,001 🌿                                      🌹Wednesday, October 25, 2023🌹

"Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4: 6)

Little children do not hide anything in their minds. They entrust everything to mother to the father. For example, a child returning from school will tell his mother and father everything that the teacher talked about in the class and what friends talked about while playing. By saying that, the children get some kind of joy in their hearts. But parents often don't listen to their children.

Many parents find it irritating that their children talk like this. They will say, "Ok....ok go and study or play" and chase those children away from them. Beloved, sharing our experiences with others is a natural instinct within us. Humans are socially conscious and therefore this consciousness is present in everyone.

But as people grow older this sense diminishes and they start hiding many things. This is what causes stress. Our God is not indifferent to our thoughts and longings. He wants His children to share everything with Him in prayer. That is why in today's meditation verse, the apostle Paul said, "Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." 

God does not simply hear and forget our thoughts and feelings; Rather, he answers them. So, when we tell him everything like this in our prayers, he gives us comfort and comfort. Then our hearts will be filled with God's peace. This is what the apostle Paul continues to write, "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4: 7)

Beloved, no one is an orphan in this world; We have a Mother and Father God who understands and responds to our thoughts and longings. So, let's share everything good and bad that happens to us in life with Him. Prayer is not simply reciting mantras but talking to God; Listening to him speak. When our prayers become like this, the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will fill our hearts and minds as the apostle Paul says.

With our whole heart we should talk to God as we talk to mother and father. Although He knows about us and our problems, He is pleased when we tell them to Him through our mouths. He answers us and reassures us.

🌿 'AATHAVAN' Meditation No: - 1,002 🌿                                         🌹October 26, 2023 Thursday🌹

"And therefore, will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him." (Isaiah 30: 18)

In this world we have to wait for many things. Not everything happens immediately. Even if we sow a seed, we have to wait for many days, months and years for it to bear fruit. If one wants to become a doctor, he has to study patiently for five years. Yes, the joy of this long studying and becoming a doctor is not only for him but also for the entire family.

There is a wonderful verse in the Bible that says, "Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life." (Proverbs 13: 12) Yes, dear ones, if worldly things can be so happy, how happy we will be when our sins are forgiven and we experience redemption!!!

God knows our prayers and heartaches. But he is delaying for some purpose. we have to wait patiently for him. The Lord will wait to have mercy on us, and rise up to have compassion on us; The Lord is a righteous God; Blessed is all who wait for him. According to this verse, we wait for the Lord; He is waiting for us. It is a mutual waiting like lovers waiting for each other.

Beloved, we belong to the heavenly Zion. So, this waiting is necessary for us to qualify for it. While waiting like this, it is enough if we are only residents of the holy city of Jerusalem. It means that we must surrender ourselves and wait to live the holy life of Jerusalem. Isaiah goes on to describe what happens when we live like that in the next verse: -

"For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee." (Isaiah 30: 19)

Yes, dear ones, then we will not be crying. The reason is that He is tenderly moved by the sound of our call and He will grant us a re-commandment as soon as He hears it. So don't worry that we are running late. Don’t think that, we are old now and whether we will be happy anymore. God promised Abraham a son at the age of 75 and fulfilled that promise only when he was 100 years old.

Let's wait for the Lord without giving up and guarding truth and holiness. As today's verse says, the Lord will arise to have mercy on us; The Lord is a righteous God; Blessed is all who wait for him.

🌿 'AATHAVAN ' Meditation No:- 1,003 🌿                                        🌹October 27, 2023 Friday🌹

"For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth." (Romans 10: 4)

There are many different religious beliefs in this world. Each religion lays down various formal belief systems and designates those who follow them as their religious sympathizers. A person who believes in a religion must obey the precepts of that religion. So was Judaism. Jews observed various commandments and rituals. Those who observed them were considered to be true Jews. The Jewish commandments are the law.

But our Lord Jesus Christ said that it is not these commandments and rituals, but faith in Him that is important. Yes, Christ did not come to create religion. Instead, he came to show people a way. That way is the way of faith. When we come to the path of faith, we naturally obey God's commandments. Christ came as the end of the law. So those who believe in Him are not subject to commandments. This is what the apostle Paul said, "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes."

And the apostle John said, "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." (John 1: 17) The grace and truth of Christ are superior to the commandment of the law given by Moses.

Beloved, if we continue to follow a few religious beliefs and religious rituals regularly and live without coming into the grace of Christ, our life is a wasted life. It is not spiritual life; Rather it is religious life. A life that makes us just religious.

"And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst." ( John 6 : 35 ) He does not say that he who keeps the commandments of the law will never hunger or thirst. Yes beloved, we must come to Him; We have to believe him.

If we come to Christ, it means that God the Father loves us and reveals Christ to us. It does not come from keeping commandments; Rather, it is the great reward that we receive by grace. So, when we draw near to Christ with faith, He will not cast us away. This is what Jesus Christ said in the Gospel of John, "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." (John 6: 37)

Yes, beloved, "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes." According to the verse, anyone means everyone regardless of religion, race, caste and nationality. It means that whoever believes in Him, no matter who we are, will be made righteous. It means that there is no need for religious rituals, traditions, or laws. It means that it is important to have faith in Him. Let us believe in him and get soul salvation and a higher heavenly life.

🌿 'AATHAVAN ' Meditation No:- 1,004 🌿                                                                                                    🌹October 28, 2023 Saturday🌹

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8: 28)

Today's verse by the apostle Paul is helpful to strengthen us in spiritual life. That is, even if we live a life that is right for God, sometimes we experience sufferings and crises. We should not lose heart in such situations. The reason is that all things work together for good to those who love God.

We do not know what will happen later in our life. God keeps some things secret about us. So, when we suffer, we must realize that behind this suffering we have a great blessing. As today's verse says, it is enough if we are those who love God as those who are called according to His purpose.

To love God is to live away from sin. A perfect example of today's meditation verse is Joseph. He was hated by his siblings, sold as a slave, falsely accused, and imprisoned in a country where he was a slave. All these are the deeds that God did as He loved him and already decided to make him the prime minister of Egypt. He also feared God and kept himself holy even when sinful situations came.

After he became prime minister of Egypt, Joseph says to his brothers who tortured him and sold him as a slave. "And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt." (Genesis 45: 7,8)

It is God's plan to lead him through suffering and lift him up and protect the people. Yes, dear ones, Joseph did not know what was going to happen later when he was suffering. Yet he lived a faithful life before God.

The apostle Paul sends his fellow worker Timothy to the church in Thessalonica to tell them that all things are working together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. So he writes, "And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow labourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:”(1 Thessalonians‍ 3 : 2 )

Beloved, therefore do not be weary of suffering. When we love God, everything happens for our good.

‘AATHAVAN' Meditation No: - 1,005                                                 🌹October 29, 2023 Sunday🌹

"Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered." (Luke 11: 52)

If we want to know the things of the kingdom of God, we must become like little children. We cannot explain or know spiritual things through knowledge. But because the Pharisees and scribes of Jesus' time were like this, they could not recognize Him. A person who has studied all the scriptures and has a doctor's degree but does not receive the anointing of the Spirit does not know God.

That is why Jesus Christ said, "Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 19: 14) Young children may not be researching on their own. Children will accept what we say.

The Pharisees and scribes tried to identify the Messiah with their sickle of scriptures. But it was their hardened heart that prevented them from knowing Christ the Messiah. They rejected Jesus as not the Messiah and prevented people from entering the Kingdom of God, which they did not enter.

Yes, beloved, they could not recognize Jesus Christ because they saw the prophecies of the prophets about Jesus Christ through their own knowledge. Thus, where the religious leaders and learned scribes failed, the uneducated, common people succeeded. Yes, the illiterate disciples saw Jesus as the Messiah.

The reason many people still do not experience salvation today is because of their knowledge. They search for the meaning of the scriptures with their brain knowledge. Such were the Pharisees and scribes of Jesus Christ's day.

Apostle Paul's main mission was to explain to the people that Jesus Christ is the Messiah. Many spiritual truths cannot be unlocked by the same key of knowledge. We can know the truth only when we submit ourselves to God and wait for the guidance of the Spirit.

When the Apostle Paul says about this, "Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." (1 Corinthians 2: 13, 14)

Beloved, what Jesus said to the Pharisees and scribes applies to those who seek Christ by self-knowledge and to those who simply worship Him without knowing Him properly. Yes, such people must throw away the key of their self-knowledge and submit themselves to the guidance of the Spirit. The spiritual things of God can only be known by examining and judging spiritually. Let us lay aside knowledge and take hold of the Spirit.

'AATHAVAN' MEDITATION No:- 1,006                                           October 30, 2023 Monday

"My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning." (Psalms 130 : 6 )

To know God in life; The psalmist conveys the truth through a beautiful parable that we should eagerly wait for His salvation. He gives the parable of the night watchmen.

We have seen watchmen on night patrol duty. They do their work in the scorching hot summer sun, extreme cold and rainy season. Their work does not let them sleep despite their desire to sleep well and their physical exhaustion. They yearn to go home and rest at dawn.

The psalmist says that my heart waits and longs for God more than these night watchmen long.

Also, in Psalm 119 we read, "Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness." (Psalms 119: 123)

Beloved, the psalmist did not yearn like this to fulfill his worldly desires. Rather, to attain a relationship with God; He says he is waiting like this to get soul redemption. Is this what our mind longs for today? If we have such a longing in us, surely God will come closer to us. He will reveal His salvation to us.

The Law does not save us according to the New Testament. Rather, it is our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that saves us. According to the New Testament, the apostle Paul says what is said in the psalm as follows: - "For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith." (Galatians 5: 5) Yes, he says that he waits with faith on the Lord Jesus Christ.

No matter what, we need to wait for God's salvation with eager hearts. In this world we have to wait for many things like a job, getting benefit under a government scheme, a seat in a college. But how much more must we wait for salvation and eternal life than these!!!

Surely God will fill us with His Spirit if we thirst for the Spirit to fill us and our eternal salvation. "For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:' (Isaiah 44: 3) says the Lord.

'AATHAVAN' Meditation No:- 1,007                                                   Tuesday, October 31, 2023

"For it is written in the law of Moses, thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?" ( 1 Corinthians 9 : 9 )

After harvesting, the crops are threshed by oxen to separate them from the chaff. When doing like that, cows will eat grain along with hay. Therefore, farmers tie the cow's mouths when they tread. But God had commanded through Moses not to do that. We read this in Deuteronomy as, "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn." (Deuteronomy 25: 4)

In today’s meditation verse the apostle Paul compares this commandment to evangelists. The reason is, "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel." (1 Corinthians 9: 14)

Christian ministers in full-time ministry need income if they are to survive. Only when their needs are met, they can serve enthusiastically. But those who serve Christ must give priority first to the proclamation of the gospel and not to the money received from it. For, "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!" (1 Corinthians 9: 16) Paul the apostle said.

Does God who cares for cows not care for humans? God will surely honour those who truly serve God. In that belief he says, I have authority to receive people's money as a struggling cow has authority to eat that straw. But I do not exercise that authority over the people. He said, "I will preach the gospel of Christ without any expense."

"What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel." (1 Corinthians 9: 18)

How did he get this conviction? It came in the hope that God would not forsake His servants. Similarly, even though he experienced some hardships, God led him on the path of ministry. There are many people who ministered by faith like this. They did not rely on people but completely trusted in God. God also guided them. George Muller (1805 - 1898) believed in God and supported thousands of orphans. God miraculously treated him without opening his mouth and asking others for help. Even now many such people in our country are doing this kind of work.

Today's meditation verse is an example of how God honours those who proclaim His gospel. God will not forsake one when he strives to serve God. Will a God who cares for ordinary cows abandon his servants? But for one thing, bored cows do not forcefully pick and eat. They are entitled to it. True servants will do their ministry like these cows without forcing others; God will guide them.