BIBLE PEARLS - MARCH 2024

 

                  - Bro. M. Geo Prakash

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATAION No:- 1,117 💚 March 01, 2024 💚 Friday 💚

"But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through his name." (John 20:31)

No one will write anything without purpose. Similarly, the Holy Scripture was written by the Holy Spirit, not without purpose.

But today, many people are preaching something about the gospel. For many, it has become a means of survival. Many people don't think about why the gospels were written. They are preaching with the worldly things they know in mind.

Why should the Lord Jesus Christ come into the world and suffer and die? Just for worldly blessings? Then there is no need for him to have been born. But today, 90% of the so-called preachers teach as if Christ was born in the world to give people the blessings of the world: freedom from disease, freedom from debt, freedom from the devil.

The name Jesus means Savior. To save us from our sins, He appeared in this world as a human being and created a costly salvation. We read this: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

In all 39 books of the Old Testament of the Bible, from Genesis to Malachi, we can see a prophetic part about our Lord Jesus Christ in some areas. The entire New Testament speaks of the glory of His salvation. When we know these things wisely, our faith in Christ will increase. On the contrary, if we recite verses for worldly blessings, we will be pitiable. We cannot know God.

This is what John, the beloved disciple of Jesus Christ, explains in today's verse. Therefore, the Bible was not written for the blessing of the world, but “these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through his name." 

Beloved, therefore, we must read the Scriptures from this point of view. Only then can we know the glory of God and that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of God, through which our sins are forgiven and we become eligible for eternal life. If not, we will be fooling ourselves by claiming to be Christians and making empty claims, to be slaves to the myths of blind preachers. Yes, let's read the scriptures, knowing the purpose for which they were written. Let us receive eternal life.

‘AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,118 💚 March 02, 2024 💚 Saturday 💚

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:9)

Human thoughts are about their human minds. An animal's thoughts correspond to animal characteristics. For example, a goat or a cow would never think of building themselves a nice house or buying a car. All their thoughts are to know and go wherever green is visible. It is to fill the stomach.

Likewise, God's thoughts and ways are higher than man's. That is why the apostle Paul says, "As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly." (1 Corinthians 15:48) Christ is heavenly. He wants us who believe in him to become heavenly like him. If we have experienced Christ's redemption, our thoughts will be like Christ's.

Paul further says, "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God." (Colossians 3:1) That is, if it is true that we have died to sin and risen in Christ, our thoughts will be to seek the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of Father God. Be heavenly-minded. If not, we will be thinking of earthly things and praying only for them.

When Jesus Christ lived in the world, he said to the Jews, "And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above; ye are of this world; I am not of this world." (John 8:23)

Are our thoughts seeking only earthly blessings? Then it means that we have not yet reached the higher level that Christ expects. The preachers who preach such earthly blessings are also earthly. If we follow them, we cannot attain higher status.

The apostle Paul says, "Seek those things which are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God." As the heavens are higher than the earth, so our ways and thoughts should be higher. That is what God wants.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,119 💚 March 03, 2024 💚 Sunday 💚

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

Men are born insignificant. Even our body is insignificant. A man struggles with this insignificant body. The average human body temperature is 98.6 degrees F. If this body temperature rises 0.4 degrees to 99 degrees, we cannot get up and move; we must rest in bed tired of fever. That is our strength.

But humans don't think about it. They think they can achieve anything if they put their mind to it. We have seen with our own eyes that many of our political leaders, who used to be like this, have gone missing.

In the book of Genesis itself, God made people understand that it was by His Spirit that He delivered the weak from the hands of strong men. A single man named Moses overthrew the great army of Pharaoh.

Pharaoh's soldiers and horses were used to battle. Many battles have been fought and won by them. But the strength of the army did not give victory to Pharaoh. The army could not stand before Moses, a man who had received the Spirit of God. Victory came to the people of Israel through Moses, according to the Spirit of God.

Our problems can seem like mountains. But when we surrender it to God, it becomes a small problem, and we get victory. Problems at the workplace, problems in the family, problems in the profession—don't be afraid, lament, and worry, thinking, “How am I going to deal with this?" God's Spirit can set us free.

This is why the apostle Paul boldly says, "I can do all things through Christ, who strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13)

There is a difference between the thoughts of God and the thoughts of men. Men think that only strength will prevail. But God only uses the weak and the little ones for his work.

Another example is Gideon who freed the people of Israel from the hands of the Midianites. The Midianites were great warriors. But Gideon's people were ordinary people. "People with you are too much; If you win, people will speak against God and say that it was the strength of our hands that gave us victory. Therefore, as per God’s will, Gideon defeated the Midianites with 300 men. (Judges-7).

"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;" (1 Corinthians 1: 27) Yes, dear ones, in your area, in your town, you may be less than others in terms of economy or position. But when God knows you and uses you, those who saw you as poor will be amazed.

Yea, saith the Lord of hosts unto you, "It is by my Spirit."

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,120 💚 March 04, 2024 💚 Monday 💚

"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." (James 1 : 27 )

As we are taught to give more charity during lent, we may do many such charitable things. Today's meditation verse says that it is not just about doing charity, but before doing such charity, we must make ourselves pure before God.

God wants orphans and widows to be helped. Because for them there is no one else in the world except God. "A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation." (Psalms 68: 5) we read.

But God does not look at those who help poor children and widows based on their help. On the contrary, He also looks at their personal life. Today many organizations are doing charitable assistance by receiving foreign aids. Many people are also doing charity during lent days. But God sees not their charity but the inner life of those who help like that.

That's what James says in today's verse, "Keeping oneself undefiled by the world is pure godliness before God the Father." That is, before we do good, we must be good ourselves. The world may praise those who do more favours as charity. But God does not praise like that. God also sees whether we are good and free from worldly sins before helping this way.

We often see everything from a human perspective. But God also sees everything act of our personal lives. He judges based on that. "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) Jesus Christ questioned.

Yes, dear ones, we can get appreciation from the people of this world for our money, talent, or acts of kindness. We can appeal their hearts. What good is it if our personal lives are unholy to God? 

Therefore, it is good to visit the fatherless and widows in their suffering, but it is also important to keep ourselves not being defiled by the world. That is pure devotion before God the Father.

Lent is not simply about giving charity; God loves righteous deeds with a repentant life. That is true devotion before Him.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,121 💚 March 05, 2024 💚 Tuesday 💚

"Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine; the soul that sinneth, it shall die." (Ezekiel 18:4)

Some verses of the Bible confuse many people. When there is constant suffering in life, many people think that it is due to family curses. Many people think that they and their children will be affected by the sins of their ancestors. Once a brother who was suffering a lot in his life lamented to me, "Brother, my sufferings are due to the sins of my father and grandfather."

He continued, and the Bible says, "Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." (Exodus 34:7) He wept, saying that what is mentioned in the scriptures is true.

I said to him, 'No, brother, if we accept Christ and live a repentant life, no curse will overtake us. Christ Jesus has atoned for all our sins and curses. I showed him the verse from the book of Ezekiel saying, "When we accept Jesus as our saviour, no curses will overtake us; we can read this in the Old Testament."

"The soul that sinneth shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, nor shall the father bear the iniquity of the son; the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him." (Ezekiel 18:20)

Yes, beloved, no curse will overtake us when we live a righteous life, according to Christ. He who sins will be punished for his sins. "What mean ye that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge? As I live, saith the Lord God, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb in Israel." (Ezekiel 18:2, 3)

The disciples of Jesus Christ also had this thought. That is why they asked Jesus Christ about this when they saw a man blind by birth. We read this:

"And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned nor his parents, but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." (John 9:2, 3)

So when suffering continues in life, let us examine ourselves without blaming our ancestors. He may have allowed us to suffer so that God's works might be revealed in us. No curse can overtake us when we seek the forgiveness of Christ and experience the salvation of being washed by His blood.

"The soul that sinneth shall die." Says the Holy Lord. Let us commit to living a godly life. None of the sins and curses of our ancestors can affect us.

"Behold, all souls are mine," says the Holy Lord.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,122                              💚 March 06, 2024 💚 Wednesday 💚

"I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself and was gone; my soul failed when he spake. I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer." (Song of Songs 5:6)

Beloved, our God is loving; He is full of grace, but He has appointed times for each. Likewise, He has appointed a specific time for us to attain salvation. It is today. If we ignore it, we will not see Him later; He will not answer us. Today's meditation verse reminds us of that.

Even if we call him dear Jesus Christ today, it will not make sense if we close the door of our hearts without opening it and live as mere worshipping Christians. This is what today's verse says: "I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself and was gone; my soul failed when he spake; I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer."

If we live an unconverted life, His words will make us weary later, as He said, "I opened the door to my beloved; my beloved is gone, and he is gone; my soul is weary at his word."

Jesus Christ said this in the parable of the ten virgins. He says that if we are not ready when the bridegroom comes and knocks after the door is closed, he will say that he does not know us." Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily, I say unto you, I know you not." (Matthew 25:11, 12) we read.

Yes, beloved, "For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) says the apostle Paul. We never know where our lives will end. Therefore, it is necessary that we be ready today to have our sins forgiven and experience redemption.

"Seek ye the LORD while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near." (Isaiah 55:6), says Isaiah. The Lord Jesus Christ is near all of us. He wants to have a firm friendship with us. This is the time when we should seek Him. He is the one who can intercede for us today. But when He comes again, He will come as a righteous judge. On that day, he will judge with justice. So today is the perfect time for us to ask for forgiveness.

We cannot beg for mercy from Him on the Day of Judgment. We cannot open the door of our hearts on that day. Even when we open the door, a condition will occur, like, “My beloved is gone; my soul is weary at his word. I have looked for him, and I have not found him; I have called to him, and he has not answered me."

"Behold, now is the time of grace; now is the day of salvation." Let's report our sins to Him today and experience redemption.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:-1,123                         

   💚 March 07, 2024 💚 Thursday 💚

"And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, that thou doest, do quickly." (John 13: 27)

Today's meditation verse tells us that if we live a life without true repentance and take the Eucharist daily, we are Satan's people and his slaves.

Yes, when we partake of the Eucharist without true repentance and purity of heart, we become slaves to Satan. In today's meditation verse, it is said that after Judas bought and ate the bread given by Christ, Satan entered him. Satan, who had not entered him until then, entered him as soon as he partook of the Eucharist.

The reason for this was the deceitful nature of Satan in him. He had already planned to betray Christ and concealed it and acted deceitfully towards him. We read this, "Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said." (Matthew 26: 25) we read.

Yes, dear ones, the eucharist without repentance will enslave us to Satan and cause us various diseases. That is why the apostle Paul said, "But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup." ( 1 Corinthians 11 : 28 )

He continued, "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: 30, 31)

If Satan entered Judas who ate bread from the hand of the Lord Jesus Christ, then what about all of us? Judas was deceitful in his thinking. He pretended to be a lover of Jesus Christ by hiding his true character. We must check if we are like this.

We may be doing things like being more enthusiastic in church affairs, attending services regularly, giving offerings etc. We can take the Eucharist. But whether our heart is true to God is something we should think about.

If we live unfeelingly, Jesus will say to us as he said to Judas, "Do quickly what you do" What did Jesus ask him to do quickly? Deceptive activity that his heart desired. But we know the outcome of that act and the outcome of his life.

Our first duty is to guard our heart as a holy temple where Satan cannot enter. Only then will we be partakers with Christ. "But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." (Matthew 5: 37) said Jesus Christ. This is the area where Judas failed. So let us also be cautious. Let us pray that the Spirit will lead us to live with a true heart. Only then will we be partakers with Christ.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:-1,124                          

💚 March 08, 2024 💚 Friday 💚

"Bring forth, therefore, fruits meet for repentance." (Matthew 3:8)

The Christian life is not living for one day alone; rather, it is a daily cross-carrying experience. Similarly, repentance is not a one-day event. Success lies in maintaining it. The excitement that comes from attending a few convention meetings makes some people want to continue attending such meetings. With this motivated intention, they consider themselves saved.

It is like sitting on the beach, enjoying the sea breeze and the beauty of the sea. We often like to go to the beach because its beauty and pleasure delight us. But spiritual life is not like that. No matter how many meetings and prayers we participate in without personal change in our lives, it is fruitless. It is like enjoying the beauty of the ocean.

This is what John the Baptist said to the Pharisees and Sadducees who came to him to be baptised: "O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth, therefore, fruits meet for repentance." (Matthew 3:7, 8).

There was no real conversion of heart among the Pharisees and Sadducees. Seeing others, they also went to John to be baptised. They went to John with a desire to see a famous person. That is why John called them the generation of vipers.

Yes, dear, many Christians today consider themselves redeemed or saved because they attend so-called spiritual churches. Our salvation should not be like enjoying beauty; rather, it should consist of a continuous repentant life. A spiritually fruitful experience will reflect Christ in us. A Christian is one who has that experience.

Many people today think that salvation is getting rid of beedi, cigarette, and betel nut habits. Many witnesses in spiritual convention meetings profess like that. But the truth is that you can get rid of them through medical methods. True salvation must bring about a change in our inner man. Be full of spiritual fruits. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance; against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22–23)

So beloved, the Christian life with fruits is the spiritual life. Without it, we will be empty-hearted Christians. When we surrender ourselves to the Spirit's guidance and pray, not only are we freed from sin, but He will continually make us merciful. The power of the Spirit is not to work miracles; instead, overcome sin and live a fruitful life. Let's pray for that. Let us become kind and reveal ourselves to the world.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,125                                        💚 March 09, 2024 💚 Saturday 💚

"Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12)

The life story of pious Job is well known to all of us. Through his faith in God, he patiently endured all the pains and sufferings he suffered.

We read the reason for Job's success in today's meditation verse. "Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food," he says.

He says that the reason he did not retreat from his precepts, the words of God, was that he guarded them more carefully than saving food. Job preserved God's words in the box that was his heart, just as we preserve and eat food that is too much for us today in the refrigerator. So, they kept him from turning away from God in his time of suffering.

Beloved, what we need to guard more than food is the divine words of our Lord Jesus Christ, just as the pious Job guarded. Especially the verse that give us comfort and encouragement in times of trouble: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

There are many witnesses who were touched by these words of the Lord Jesus Christ and were comforted and saved at the end of their lives when they were caught by suicidal thoughts. I have heard many witnesses; I have read. Even though we are in the midst of various sufferings today, if we accept these words of the Lord Jesus Christ with faith and go to Him, He will give us rest.

Also, in today's meditation verse, Job affirms, "Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips.” Likewise, we must commit ourselves to following God's commandments. We should try to live without committing sinful acts against God under any circumstances.

We can see that the psalmist is saying the same thing as Job. "Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee." (Psalms 119:11) We can know through this verse that if we keep his words in our hearts, we will not sin against God.

Yes, beloved, let us enshrine the words of God in our hearts. Let's protect them more than food. They are a relief to those of us who are troubled.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,126                                   💚 March 10, 2024 💚 Sunday 💚

"Know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind, for the LORD searcheth all hearts and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts; if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever." (1 Chronicles 28:9)

Today's meditation verse is David's advice to his son Solomon about knowing the Lord, the God of our ancestors, and living for Him. The first thing David says in this verse is, "We must know the Lord and serve him." Not knowledge of God; rather, we should know God first.

We can only learn about God by studying in theological colleges, listening to sermons, and studying in Sunday classes. But one can know Him only by developing a personal relationship with Him. David advises his son Solomon to develop a relationship with God and serve Him.

Next, he tells us why we should know him. That is, He “searcheth all hearts and understands all the imaginations of the thoughts." Yes, beloved, we cannot deceive the Lord. He knows all the memories in our hearts. He searches our hearts and knows. He knows why we seek Him.

A man who truly loves a woman loves only that woman and does not count the dowries she brings. Similarly, a person who truly loves God wants Him to be with him. God knows the thoughts of man. And only he who seeks God with that mind knows the higher things of the spirit.

The third important point is what David says. He says, If you seek him, he will be found of you; but if you forsake him, he will cast you off for ever."

This was fulfilled in Solomon's life. When he lived in search of God, God appeared to him. Twice, he appeared to Solomon. Despite that, Solomon, who was engrossed in sexual desire, liked and accepted 1,000 women as wives and concubines. Despite God's prohibition against marrying women of other castes, he defied it and married many women of other castes.

"For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father." (1 Kings 11:4) 

"And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD and went not fully after the LORD, as did David his father." (1 Kings 11:6) Therefore, as David said, "If you forsake him, he will forsake you forever." God abandoned Solomon.

Therefore, dear ones, it is necessary that we serve Him with a pure heart and an enthusiastic mind. It is true that He is said to search all hearts and know all forms of memory. No one needs to tell him about us. He knows everything. "And needed not that any should testify of man, for he knew what was in man." (John 2:25)

Let's be careful not to be carried away by memories and actions. If we seek Him, He will be found; if we forsake Him, He will forsake us forever.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No: - 1,127                      💚 March 11, 2024 💚 Monday 💚

"But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, Who was delivered for our offences and was raised again for our justification." (Romans 4:24, 25)

The apostle Paul speaks of today's meditation verse while referring to Abraham's faith. Paul says that just as Abraham's faith was counted to him, so it is counted to us who believe in the Father. Many Christians today do not understand the relationship between God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

God, the Father, is greater than Jesus Christ. He himself sent Christ into the world. We need to understand this first. This is not to be said at face value, but we should believe this truth and honour the Father like Christ. "Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me; for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me." (John 8:42) says Jesus Christ.

If someone sends another to do something for him, then is not the one who sends it great.? The Father sends Jesus Christ. Yes, beloved, we must believe in God the Father. He himself sent the Lord Jesus Christ as a propitiation for our sins. God the Father raised Jesus Christ alive. Apostle Paul says in today's meditation verse that only if we believe in Him, we also have resurrection.

Romans 4:25 is very clear in the new Tamil common Bible translation. "God committed Jesus to die for our trespasses and raised him from the dead so that we might be reconciled to him."

Jesus Christ said when he prayed to the Father. "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." ( John 17:3) That is, we must know God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Only when we know that do we qualify for eternal life.

And the apostle Peter said, "Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." ( 2 Peter 1:2) That is, God's grace and God's peace will increase only when we know the Father and the Son, Jesus Christ.

“The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,” (Ephesians 1:18) Paul says that he prays. We should pray to Holy Spirit to give us bright eyes to understand the truth. 

Today, false Vedic preachers are rising and giving false teachings. They think that if we give priority to God the Father, it will be like insulting Christ. But Jesus Christ made it clear that the Father was greater than himself: "for my Father is greater than I." (John 14:28)

Beloved, we must understand the relationship between the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The Gospel of John illustrates this. The chapters of John from 14 to 17 make this clear.

It is necessary that we honour the Son, Jesus Christ, as we honour the Father. The reason is that God the Father has given Jesus Christ the authority to judge us. "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgement unto the Son." (John 5:22) Let us have clear understanding of with the help of Holy Spirit. 

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,128                           💚 March 12, 2024 💚 Tuesday 💚

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keeps my saying, he shall never see death." (John 8:51)

The Lord Jesus Christ mentions the death of the soul in today's meditation verse. That is, if our soul wants to escape eternal hellfire and attain eternal life, we must walk by his words.

But today Christ's teachings have come to the point where some Christians say, "These are impractical in today's situation." Some say, "The teachings of Christ may have been acceptable two thousand years ago, but they are totally unacceptable today."

This is one of Satan's deceptions. No loving father would ask his two-year-old child to lift a pitcher of water, or he wouldn't beat his child by forcing him to eat five idlis. Yes, beloved, God, our loving Father, will certainly not command us to do what we cannot do.

This is Satan's trick; as the apostle Paul says, "The tricks of Satan are not unknown to us." That day in Eden, God said to Adam, "Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die." (Genesis 2:16, 17)

But Satan the serpent lied to Eve that you will not die by eating this fruit. "And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die." (Genesis 3:4), we read. At that time, people believed the words of Satan rather than the words of God.

That is why when Jesus Christ mentions Satan, "He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own, for he is a liar and the father of it." (John 8:44)

Those who say that Christ's teachings are untenable today are Satan's messengers. Jesus Christ has promised us the Holy Spirit, who is our helper, because we are weak today. "And I will pray to the Father, and he shall give you another comforter, that he may abide with you for ever." (John 14:16)

Thus, the Spirit sent by God will guide us on the path of truth. "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak; and he will shew you things to come." (John 16:13)

So, beloved, let us be confident. Christ's words are what we can obey when we live in the power of the Spirit. But we cannot receive the Spirit through empty rituals. We can feel the power of the Spirit when we surrender ourselves to God. He himself will help us to follow the teachings of Christ and guide us to reach the eternal life that Christ promised.

God’s Message:- Bro. M. Geo Prakash

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No: - 1,129                               💚 March 13, 2024 💚 Wednesday 💚

"For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish." (Psalms 1: 6)

Today's verse talks about two ways, the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. Even though the righteous man's path to the Lord is a difficult path, he finds peace and joy. But on the contrary, the path of the wicked, which at first appears to be prosperity and happiness, turns out to be a path of destruction in the end.

Even when we walk in God's way, we should always remember Him in our life. We should protect ourselves according to His words. "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3: 6) the Bible instructs us.

Beloved, even if some ways are God's ways, we can only succeed if we have God's protection. The reason is, "For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways." (Psalms 91: 11) Without His protection we cannot succeed.

Moses miraculously parted the Red Sea when he led the Israelites. As the Israelites walked through the path in the sea without getting their feet wet, the sea stood on either side of them like a wall. The way God made in the middle of the sea was made by God for His people. In that way the people of Israel walked. But Pharaoh's soldiers and horses that followed them in the same way perished.

Yes, the way through the Red Sea is God's way; But it was not built for Pharaoh's armies, but for his people. Even today, similar activities take place. Some people who do not know God or do not live according to God's will do some things and get into trouble like the Pharaoh's army did that day without realizing that God's children are being guided by God.

Christ is the way for us, the spiritual people today. "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14: 6) He is the means through which we can reach God the Father.

But only those who live a righteous life can walk in His ways. Many Christians today know that Christ is the way, and even though they claim to worship Him, many times they do not receive the blessings they deserve. The reason is that, they try to walk as Pharaoh's forces did seeing the Israelites. If we did not change Pharaoh's hard heart and deceitful nature in us, we cannot succeed.

According to today’s meditation verse, "For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish", we must commit ourselves to live righteously; We should try to qualify ourselves to walk that way. Let us pray for the Spirit to lead us in such a Godly way. Then our ways will be blessed.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,130                                   💚 March 14, 2024 💚 Thursday 💚

"They made a calf in Horeb and worshipped the molten image. Thus, they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eats grass." (Psalms 106:19, 20)

The reason we are human beings and in the beautiful image we are today is because God created us in His image. This human image that we see is the image of God, who created us. If God had been like a monkey, an elephant, or a cow, we would have been born like that.

"So God created man in his own image; in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:27), we read. So, it is true that men and women living in this world have received the image of God.

On that day, the people of Israel who came out of Egypt and travelled to Canaan made an image of a calf and worshipped it, saying, "You are the God who brought us out of Egypt." Aaron led them to this destruction.

This is what today's verse says: "They changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eats grass." That is, God created men in his own image, but they corrupted that glorious image and changed it to a cow that eats grass. They became like cattle.

Idolatry and fornication are two things that are abominations to God. According to the New Testament, idolatry is not just making and worshipping idols but also materialistic desire. "For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God." (Ephesians 5:5), says the apostle Paul.

Idolatry is the cause of most of the sins in our country today. The people became men with the qualities of the cow, as it is said, "They changed their glory into the likeness of a cow that eats grass." Beloved, God's words never fail. We cannot expect that people who worship cows will attain the quality of God. But it is God's will that they should change and attain God's likeness.

That is why God is patiently watching the calamities happening in the country. "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) says the apostle Peter.

According to today's verse, if we live as money fanatics, it means that we worship money and turn our glory into a blank sheet of paper. Or it means we transform ourselves into gold jewellery, apartment buildings, or houses. Beloved, God calls us to conform to His image.

God destroyed the people of Israel, who changed their glory to the likeness of a cow that eats grass. So, they were not able to enter Canaan. So, this is a warning for us. Let us depend on God and try to attain His image. Let us worship Him in spirit and in truth and gain greater spiritual experiences.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,131                             💚 March 15, 2024 💚 Friday 💚

"Unless thy law had been my delight, I should then have perished in my affliction." (Psalms 119:92)

About 8,00,000 people commit suicide worldwide every year, of which 1,35,000 (17%) are residents of India. Just think, India's population is 17.5% of the world's population. But, in our country, 17% of the world's suicides occur. Statistics show that between 1987 and 2007, the suicide rate was 10 per 100,000 people.

There can be a variety of reasons for these suicides. But all suicide deaths are due to mental exhaustion and a lack of hope. This means that there is no one to comfort these people.

Everyone has suffered. Some manage and live with them. Some can't bear it and resort to suicide. At one point in my life, I was without any hope for the future, without any job opportunities, and without knowing what to do. It was then that I came to know and accept Christ through a brother nearly 10 years younger than me. So, the only hope I had at that time was God's words.

Today's verse is one hundred percent applicable to my life. Yes, if the scriptures had not been my joy, I would have perished in my sorrow. I would not be writing these scripture meditations today.

Today, not only adults commit suicide, but suicides of young children are also common. The list of reasons for children's suicide is long: suicide due to low marks in the exam, suicide about fear of the exam, suicide due to not being able to study the desired course, suicide because they do not have a bike, cell phone, etc. as other students have.

Debt problems, love failures, and unemployment are the leading causes of adult suicide. Therefore, we should inculcate the scriptures in our children's minds at an early age. Those verses will not only confirm their faith but also help them live a godly life.

Beloved, God's words do not lie. If we put ourselves in God's hands, He will surely protect us. There is a verse in the Bible that can provide comfort in any situation of suffering. People who do not find such comforting verses in their lives commit suicide.

David experienced many hardships in his life. A situation where his life might be hunted by Saul. Many times, Saul came close to killing David. But David clung to God completely. He believed that God was with him in any situation. That is why he says,
"Yeah, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me." (Psalms 23:4) As he reported, God's rod and staff words pleased him.

Our God is the one who makes the non-existent into being, the one who created these universes out of nothingness. All things move by the word of God. In Him we live. So, let's live with a firm hold on God, no matter what comes.

Let us make our tired brothers realise that the short cut of suicide is not the solution to problems. Let us comfort them with the comforting words of Christ. Then one day they will say, "I will never forget thy precepts, for with them thou hast quickened me." (Psalms 119:93) They will also testify to others about God.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,132                           💚 March 16, 2024 💚 Saturday 💚

"But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not; if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive." (John 5:42, 43)

In today's situation, this verse means that Jesus is speaking about those who pray to fulfil the desires of the world and the ministers who inspire such desires in believers.

A man full of God's love will always depend on God and love Him. Worldly desires and attractions do not affect him much. The prayers of such a God-loving man would be different. Satisfying the needs of worldly desires will not be the priority of such people.

But those who yearn for worldly glory without seeking the glory that comes from God, even if they claim to believe in God and participate in church services, are still longing for worldly glory in their inner hearts. They will think that others should glorify them for their position, money, fame, and power.

This is why Jesus Christ continues with today's text, "How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?" (John 5:44) That is, to say that they claim to believe in God is false. Men who seek such worldly glory are not true believers. They want to accept the glory that comes from men through the blessings of this world.

In today's verse, Jesus Christ continues, “I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not; if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. "That is, those who seek such worldly glory will accept someone who preaches according to their own knowledge without having the heart to hear the gospel of true repentance.

Beloved, this is the reason why multitudes run after blessing preachers today. That is, they run after self-taught blessing preachers to enhance their own glory with worldly blessings. Looking at such people, Jesus Christ said, as he said to the Jews that day, "I know that you do not have the love of God." If there is love for God, they will seek God first.

Today, it is a sad fact that Christianity has become a laughing stock in the eyes of other religious people due to the loveless servants of God who are slaves to the love of the world. The higher spiritual attributes, like spiritual teachings and the truths of Christianity, are obscured by such ministers seeking self-glorification. Such self-aggrandizing employees have invaded social media as well. Their vile worldly lust videos are widely shared by others, and Christianity is ridiculed and Christ is repeatedly crucified.

Dear brothers and sisters who read this, guard our lives and lead a life pleasing to Jesus Christ. At least He will look at us and say, "I know that you do not have the love of God in you." Let us live as true witnesses for Christ.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,133                          💚 March 17, 2024 💚 Sunday 💚

"He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him." (John 7: 18)

In yesterday's meditation, we saw that "those who seek the glory of the world without seeking the glory that comes from God are still longing for worldly glory in their hearts, even though they claim to believe in God." Following that, we can do today's meditation. Christian ministers and people who seek self-glorification will adapt God's verses to increase their status and economy.

That is what Jesus Christ says: "He that speaks of himself seeketh his own glory." Self-speakers are those who leave the way of the Holy Spirit and preach the gospel with their brain knowledge. They always want to protect their own glory. They will preach accordingly.

But "he that seeketh the glory of him that sent him is faithful, and there is no unrighteousness in him." Jesus Christ says: True preachers are those chosen by God for ministry. Those who are so sent will work and teach for the glory of the One who sent them. So, we can know the true gospel from them.

Beloved, we can only find out if a person has become a minister of his own or if God has chosen him and sent him to the ministry if we develop a personal relationship with God. Everyone talks by quoting verses from the Bible. But the one who understands the meaning and purpose of those verses and teaches them is the one sent by God.

Most professing Christians today do not have a personal relationship with God. Nor do they want to develop it. Believers want someone to speak God's words and pray for them as instant relief. Thus, the Church of Christ has become servants and believers seeking self-glory.

Today's verse says that he who seeks the glory of Christ, the true God who sent him, is faithful, and there is no injustice in him. That is, there is no injustice for those who live truthfully. They don't seek Christ to make money. Today, even people of other faiths pray in a spiritual manner known to them. Many prayers are sincere. But the prayers of many Christians are shallower than that.

How can we bring about conversion by showing empty money blessings and worldly blessings to the people who are looking for different yogis and satgurus in search of spirituality? We can know the truth only when we give up self-glory and surrender ourselves to the Spirit.

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak; and he will shew your things to come." (John 16:13), said Jesus Christ. Thus, he who has the Spirit of Truth in his life will be faithful and seek the glory of him who sent him. There is no injustice with him.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,134                 💚 March 18, 2024 💚 Monday 💚

"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." (1 Corinthians 1:18)

The Lord Jesus Christ was born on earth as a man for our sins, was given to death by the Jews and the chief priests, crucified, suffered, died, and was buried. Then, on the third day, He resurrected as a victorious Christ.

Because He thus triumphed over death, our sins are washed away by his blood, and we are made righteous. When we believe and accept this, we are redeemed. We are made righteous. This is the preaching of the cross.

Bulls and goats were sacrificed for sins in the Old Testament. Sins were washed away by the blood of these animals. But since the blood of animals could not completely remove the root of sin, men fell into sin again and again. "For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins." (Hebrews 10:4), we read. Christ came as a man on earth to change this and give people complete freedom from sin.

He was beaten like an animal and killed. This is "for the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp. Therefore, Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate." (Hebrews 13:11, 12), says the author of the Hebrew Epistle.

Thus, "By the will of God, we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." (Hebrews 10:10) This is the truth. This is the Christian faith.

Beloved, it is this teaching of the cross that can save us. If we call this a crazy myth, we are doomed. Any believer can experience this in his life. This is what we read in today's meditation verse: “The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us that are saved, it is the power of God."

When we accept this, our life changes. We are empowered to overcome sin. Yes, "it is the power of God for us who are being saved."

This reality is not like the myth. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32) As Jesus said, the truth about the cross can give us freedom. It is the duty of every Christian to make this truth their own experience in life and to proclaim it to others.

The reason is that only when we proclaim this truth like this can people who are searching for God in their own wisdom find the true God. "For after that, in the wisdom of God, the world, by wisdom, knew not God; it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe." (1 Corinthians 1:21)

It is their personal choice to accept this or not. But as it is said, "The doctrine of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing," it is true that if we do not accept it, our soul will perish, and when we accept it, we will be saved and blessed by God.

"Whoever bares our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." (1 Peter 2:24)

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,135                 💚 March 19, 2024 💚 Tuesday 💚

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

In Old Testament times, only the High Priests could enter the Holiest Place of the Tabernacle. And that too is possible only after washing and purifying their sins with the blood of animals. But today, all of us who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ can enter the holiest place in heaven. Jesus Christ has paved the way for it through his suffering, death, and resurrection.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was appointed by God as a high priest, like the order of Melchizedek. Today's verse explains the reasons for it.

The things mentioned here are self-abasement and striving, obedience, and thereby perfection. That is, he is the Son of God; he is equal to God. But even so, he surrendered himself completely to the Father's will and obeyed.

"Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God? But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men? And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." (Philippians 2:6–8)

Thus, He learned obedience and became the cause of eternal salvation for us who obeyed Him. Beloved, therefore, if we would follow Christ, we must obey Him. We must obey God's words and God's voice. We should endure the sufferings that come to us in the world without grumbling.

Murmuring was the cause of the destruction of many of the Israelites, who were led by Moses from Egypt to Canaan. That is why the Apostle Paul says, "Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed by the destroyer." (1 Corinthians 10:10)

Through such obedience and enduring suffering without grumbling, we are perfected in spiritual life. If these things were necessary for Christ to be perfected, how much more do we need them?

As it is not possible for us with human strength to obey and endure suffering like Jesus Christ, He has promised us the Holy Spirit and given it to us. We must receive this spirit in our lives. Didn't Jesus Christ say, "But ye shall receive power; after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth?" (Acts 1:8)

Yes, beloved, it is Christ who is named by God as the "high priest" who leads us to the Father. We need the anointing of the Holy Spirit to endure suffering like Christ and to live as Christ's witnesses. So let us pray for the anointing of the Spirit. He will help us to live a true Christian life. Then we too can get near the Holy Father, like our High Priest Christ.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,136                 💚 March 20, 2024 💚 Wednesday 💚

"For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Mark 8:36, 37)

Gaining the world means capturing world power or winning the hearts of the world's people. One can conquer this worldly power through his heroism. He can bring many countries under his authority. To bring such is to gain the world.

Also, they can win the hearts of people around the world with their talent. They can gain millions of fans for themselves. This too is to gain the world.

Many who have tried to gain the world in this way have perished. They have lost their lives. We know the result of people like Napoleon and Hitler who wanted to enslave the world with their power. Their lives have led their souls to destruction.

Marilyn Monroe was an actress who captivated the American film industry with her charm. The youth of the whole world were addicted to her attractive performance and her obscene speech. Yes, she won the hearts of the world with her lewdness. She took advantage. But she committed suicide in 1962 at the age of 36.

Today's meditation verse says, What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?"

Beloved, even today, many people have won a crowd for themselves with their acting skills, singing and dancing skills, and writing skills. This makes them proud and belittles others. But what is the benefit of losing their own soul?

Worldly glory is insignificant and perishable before the glory of the kingdom of heaven. "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." (Matthew 13:44), said Jesus Christ.

We must act so that we do not lose the kingdom of heaven, even if we lose our talents and strengths and do not use them to gain the world. It is necessary for us to act like the man who found the treasure hidden in the land, sold everything he had, and owned the land. If our talents are hindering us from reaching the kingdom of heaven, we must discard them to save our souls.

Yes, dear ones, if we gain the whole world but lose our lives, what shall we gain? Let us pray for the change of heart of people in the film industry who strive to attract people with their worldly pride and charm.

 

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,137                              💚 March 21, 2024 💚 Thursday 💚

"The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee; but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory." (Isaiah 60:19)

When the Lord Jesus Christ comes into our lives, our lives become light. The light that the Lord brings into our lives will never fade away and will be a permanent light. Although the sun and the moon give light to the world, they have specific periods. The sun does not shine at night; the moon does not shine during the day or during the new moon. Therefore, in comparison with these, today's verse refers to the eternal light of God.

And the next verse says, "Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself; for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended." (Isaiah 60:20)

Today, if our lives are dark due to various sorrows and problems, when the Lord comes into our lives, He, who is the sun and the moon, will give us light without fading.

That's why, when describing the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, Matthew quotes the prophetic verses of Isaiah. "The land of Zabulon and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; the people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death, light sprung up." (Matthew 4:15, 16)

And Apostle John said, "In him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:4, 5)

Beloved, no matter how dark our lives are, that darkness cannot overcome the light of Christ. Therefore, it is necessary for us to receive this light, Christ, in our lives. Many who are considered saints today, including the apostle Paul, were once in the grip of darkness. But by the light of Christ, they are exemplary witnesses for us today.

When we live a righteous life, we become Christ-like light-bearers. This is what Jesus Christ said: "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be  hidden." (Matthew 5:14) He said. Not only that, Jesus Christ said that we will be light-givers in the Father's kingdom. "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. "Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear." (Matthew 13:43)

Beloved, when we confess our sins to Jesus Christ and repent, the light of Christ will shine in us. Then today's verse will be fulfilled in our lives. Yes, then the sun will not be our light, and the moon will not shine on us with its light, but the Lord will be our eternal light and glory. The sun never sets in our lives; the moon never sets; the Lord will be our eternal light; and our sorrows will be over.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,138                💚 March 22, 2024 💚 Friday 💚

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." (Psalms 119:105)

We saw in yesterday's meditation that our Lord Jesus Christ is the true light. We have seen that our light will never fade when we take refuge in that true light. Today's meditation verse says, Not only God, but His words are our light and guide us. Because God's words are God.

This is what the evangelist John said: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1)

Those who work in the fields carry a torchlight in the early morning when going to work in the dark. That light identifies the deadly snakes, scorpions, etc. lying on the field bunds and helps them go safely.

Similarly, God's verses give us light and help us in our lives. In dark times, in situations where we no longer have freedom in life, God's Word gives us light and rescues us. Yes, beloved, the psalmist who experienced this in his life said, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path."

A brother of another religion who did not know Christ, who had decided that it was better to die and get lost because of the heavy interest debt and the fatal illness of his family members, and who had no money to spend, saw God's words written on a church wall. That verse read: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God; I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." (Isaiah 41:10) It was as if God had spoken to him.

Beloved, this verse became a light on his dark path in life. Heartbroken, he cried out to God. God changed his situation into a wonderful one. His testimony became a light to many and brought many people of his race to Christ. His testimony led many Christians to believe God's words more.

The previous verse of today's verse says, "Through thy precepts I get understanding; therefore, I hate every false way." (Psalms 119:104) Yes, beloved, God's words, which are light on the path, make us realise and hate the false way.

This is proof that we have new life in Christ. First, the word of Christ changes our lives and gives light to our dark souls. It constantly causes us to live according to His commandments and to abhor false ways. Let us read and meditate on God's verses, which are a light for life. Our worldly life and our spiritual life will be wonderfully transformed.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No: - 1,139                  💚 March 23, 2024 💚 Saturday 💚

"I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead." (Revelation 3:1)

Today's meditation verse addressed to the Angel of the Church in Sardis is full of words that make us all tremble. How would it be if God, who is closely watching all our activities, looked at us and said this?

Today's verse warns us to be more careful about our spiritual activities. As far as we are concerned, what we do as spiritual activities such as prayers, scripture reading, and attending prayer meetings and services can be excellent. But God's view is different. He does not just look at our actions and judge us. He also sees the background of our actions and the purpose of our actions.

And so, He continues, "Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain that are ready to die, for I have not found thy works perfect before God." (Revelation 3:2) If He cannot see our activities and the way we conduct ourselves in worldly affairs, we are dead in His sight, even though we are reputed to be alive.

Therefore, today's meditation verse shows that we cannot satisfy God by simply doing good things. It is necessary for ourselves to become good before doing good. Today many of the people of the world, rich and celebrities are doing many good deeds. But God looks at the personal lives of the people who do that deed rather than the good deeds that one does.

Following today's verse, God says, “Therefore thou shalt not watch; I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” (Revelation 3:3) In other words, God wants us to listen to God's words, follow what we have heard, and live a repentant life. Otherwise, he warns that destruction will come when we do not know.

Therefore, it is necessary for us to live in a personal relationship with God. We should have the certainty that our sins are forgiven. It is necessary to always have the fear of God and be cautious about our spiritual lives.

The same Jesus who said, "Though you call yourself alive, you are dead," also said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, if a man keeps my saying, he shall never see death." (John 8:51) From this, it is clear that we are alive only when we live by His words.

So beloved, let us hear the words of God; let us live them; let us commit ourselves to living a repentant life. Only then will we be alive in the sight of God. Only then will God recognise our good deeds.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No: - 1,140                                       💚 March 24, 2024 💚 Sunday 💚

"How excellent is your loving kindness, O God! Therefore, the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings." (Psalms 36:7)

Only holy things can enter the presence of the Most Holy God. We humans are inherently sinful. Therefore, if we want to join the presence of God, we must be pure. "And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, nor maketh a lie; but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life." (Revelation 21:27), it is said.

That is, our sins should be cleansed by the blood of His Son, the Lamb, before we enter the Father's presence. Beloved, our Lord Jesus Christ bled and died on Calvary for this. By so dying, "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved)" (Ephesians 2:5), says the apostle Paul.

This is what David said in today's meditation verse: "How wonderful is your grace! That is why the sons of men come under the shadow of your wings." says that yes, dear ones, it is by His grace that we have been given the opportunity to be forgiven of our sins and come under the shadow of His wings.

It is not made by human effort; rather, this opportunity is given to us only by God's grace. Apostle Paul says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God." (Ephesians 2: 8) That's why the psalmist says in today's verse, "How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! Therefore, the children of men put their trust under the shadow of your wings."

Moreover, by this grace, we have the opportunity to sit with Christ in the presence of the Father on high. "And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness towards us through Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:6, 7)

Therefore, beloved, we must at all times guard against losing the grace of Christ. Do not give priority to illusory, worldly things. "They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy" (Jonah 2:8), says Jonah. Let's keep ourselves from losing God's great grace to worldly attraction.

Then, as the psalmist says, we too can say, "O God, how wonderful is your grace!" and we can also reach under the shade of his wings.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,141                                  💚 March 25, 2024 💚 Monday 💚

"Now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets. Even the righteousness of God, which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe, for there is no difference" (Romans 3:21–22) 

God gave the commandments to the people of Israel through Moses. The law consists of 613 commandments in addition to the Ten Commandments. These were given so that men might live righteously. But the apostle Paul points out that God's righteousness has been created by Christ without these commandments.

That is, it says that a person who believes in Christ will keep the Ten Commandments without the commandments. He says, "Now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested. The righteousness of God, which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all those that believe," it is said. It works for everyone who believes there is no difference.

That is, when a person receives forgiveness for sins through faith in Christ, the Spirit of Christ comes into him. That Spirit will guide him in the path of God's righteousness. That man doesn't need orders. Yes, he will follow orders without orders.

"Therefore, we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." (Romans 3:28)

The law of Christ is greater than the commandments of the law. Christ has mentioned it in many places. He added a new twist to many Old Testament commandments by noting, "You have heard that it was said to them of old times, but I say unto you." (See Matthew 5:21, 28, 32, 34, 39, 44, etc.)

So, the Jews considered him to be an enemy of the commandments of the law. That is why Jesus Christ, in his Sermon on the Mount, said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." (Matthew 5:17)

Yes, beloved, we cannot become Christlike just by obsessing over the commandments of the law. We can live a righteous life only when our souls are regenerated by faith in Christ. This does not mean that we take the commandments of the law lightly. Rather, it is only when we believe in Christ that we can follow them.

That is why the apostle Paul said, "Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: Yes, we establish the law." (Romans 3:31) It is not commandments but faith in Christ that is important to living as Christ-like people. Otherwise, Christianity would be an ordinary religion with its own precepts, like other religions in the world. But Christianity is not a religion; it is a way taught by Christ.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,142                                   💚 March 26, 2024 💚 Tuesday 💚

“Neither say they in their hearts; let us now fear the LORD our God, who giveth rain, both the former and the latter, in his season; he reserveth unto us the appointed weeks of the harvest.” (Jeremiah 5:24)

God sends rain and snow on the earth in due season. He also appoints the harvesting seasons of the crops accordingly. But most people do not have any of these things in their minds. They consider their labour to be the blessing of the harvest. They do not realise the fact that no matter how hard we work, we will not succeed without God's hand.

This is why today's verse says, “Neither say they in their hearts; let us now fear the LORD our God, who giveth rain, both the former and the latter, in his season.” It means that people do not live grateful to God, who gave these blessings. There is no fear or disobedience to his commands. (Not all are like this, but the majority are.)

Many times, we see storms and rains, and crop yields are destroyed. Farmers are worried that their investment has been destroyed. Some curse God. Sometimes farmers commit suicide.

Only if God's hand is with us can we be blessed in everything we do, not just farming. “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” (Proverbs 10:22) says the scriptures. God's blessing will be a perfect blessing. There will be no pain in it.

Some people have all the wealth in their lives, but there is no peace at home. The reason is that the accumulation of wealth does not bring peace of mind. That is why the Bible says, “Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.” (Ecclesiastes 5:19)

Beloved, “Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.” (Proverbs 15:16) So let us be grateful to God, no matter how little the gifts He gives us. Let us be grateful to the Lord God, who gives us rain in life, both the former and the latter, in his season. Let's be afraid. Then He will fill us with true joy.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,143                                                💚 March 27, 2024 💚 Wednesday 💚

"But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints." (Ephesians 5:3)

Fornication, sexual sins, and idolatry are among the sins that God hates the most. When we say idolatry, we also mean excessive materialism. The reason why God hated the Egyptians and exalted the Israelites before them was because of such sinful acts by the Egyptians. We can read this in Leviticus. (Leviticus, chapter 20)

Referring to their various sexual sins, God says, "And ye shall not walk in the manners of the nation, which I cast out before you, for they committed all these things, and therefore I abhorred them." (Leviticus 20:23) Yes, God says that He hated them because they were involved in such sins.

That is why the apostle Paul continued to write, "For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God." (Ephesians 5:5)

Materialism is a sin equal to idolatry. Idolatry is making an image and worshipping it as a god. Materialism also means to equate material and money with God.

“Let it not be named among you,” Paul says. Hence, it is clear how much importance he attaches to these things. But how about our country?

Many people say that India is the most spiritual country. But none of the good works that God wants are done here. Daily press reports reveal that idolatry, adultery, prostitution, and greed-driven murders abound in our country. These correspond to the abominations of the Egyptians that day.

"And ye shall not walk in the manners of the nation, which I cast out before you, for they committed all these things, and therefore I abhorred them." God will say the same about our country as He said about Egypt.

But a group of Christian ministers, regardless of this, immerse themselves in the preaching of blessings and repeatedly lead people straight to the idolatry of materialism. God has given us only one scripture. But Christian ministries are being carried out by self-knowledge teaching without knowing the interpretation that the Spirit gives to the verses.

Be careful, dear ones. “No whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God." (Ephesians 5:5), says the Holy Lord. Not only that, let us pray that our country, darkened by such sins, may receive the light of Christ.

'Aadhavan' 📖✝ Vedagam Meditation - No:- 1,144 💚 March 28, 2024 💚 Thursday 💚

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, and the people whom he has chosen for his own inheritance.” (Psalms 33:12)

It is a great honour for a man if the government chooses him as its ambassador to a foreign country. In this way, the world government chooses its ambassadors and appoints them in other countries. The government will bear all the expenses of the selected person in that country. Many special privileges will also be offered to that man. Hence, that person must be loyal and faithful to the government. Otherwise, he will be punished according to the law.

Similarly, the people of Israel are the people chosen by God as His representatives. Although there are many different peoples in the world, God specifically chose the people of Israel as His messengers. It is indeed a great thing for the Jews. When the apostle Paul says about this, “What advantage then hath the Jew? Or what profit is there from circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because unto them were committed the oracles of God.” (Romans 3:1, 2)

It was a privilege for Jews that God's words were entrusted to them. We usually hand over expensive goods to those we trust. Likewise, God entrusted His precious words to the Jews. Blessed indeed is the Jew, whom God has chosen for his own inheritance.

Beloved, in today's world, the scriptures refer to us as Jews who have faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 2:28–29). We are spiritual Jews. So, we are the blessed ones.

The apostle Peter says, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.” (1 Peter 2:9)

But we must not forget that to whom much is given, much will be asked, as Jesus Christ said. Even though the Jews received God's words, God punished them severely when they sinned against God. He submitted to other kings as slaves. The same applies to us spiritual Jews today.

We should not forget that God, who has adorned us with His precious salvation, will punish us severely if we fail to keep it. So, we should be more careful than others. Let us carefully guard the salvation we have received. “For the LORD is great and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods.” (Psalms 96:4) says the scriptures. Let us continue our spiritual life carefully without forgetting the fact that God is our Father, but He is also a consuming fire.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,145                                  💚 March 29, 2024 💚 Friday 💚

"He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not." (Isaiah 53:3)

It has been about 2750 years since the prophet Isaiah wrote today's meditation verse. These verses were written by him after seeing the sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ in a vision. We compare this today with the sufferings of Christ 2000 years ago. However, this can be compared not only to the sufferings he experienced that day, but also to the situations where we, like the Jews, ignore him even though we claim to be Christians.

Yes, he wasn't just shunned two thousand years ago. Even today, he remains a disgraced person. We insult Christ when we say that his teachings are not practical. We despise him when we deny or make evangelical declarations against the life of witness and Christian original teaching; Or ignore it.

When we preach that Christ came into the world as a social worker just for the sake of social change, we ignore him. When we preach by distorting the spiritual teachings of Christ and comparing them with communist ideologies under the name of liberation theology, when we turn our hearts and refuse to accept Christ in our lives, we ignore him. Above all, we neglect Him when we mourn for Him only on Good Fridays without realizing any of these.

Of these, says Isaiah, “we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not." Yes, beloved, he was forsaken of men, sorrowful, and afflicted; from him we hid our faces; he was despised; we counted him not." It is something that is still going on today.

He is neglected by men, sorrowful, and suffering when we run to Him for worldly blessings, denying that He shed His blood, died for us, and showed us the way to eternal life. We ignore him.

Christ suffered and died to make us holy. He made eternal redemption through His blood. If we want our sins to be forgiven, we should carry them and confess them to Him. Without doing this, there is no use in observing mere prayers and empty rituals year after year. By doing so, we are ignoring him.

That is why the author of Hebrews said, “And so Jesus, also, to purify the people by his own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore, let us go out to him ‘outside the camp,’ bearing the same reproaches as he (Hebrews 13:12, 13). Yea, beloved, let us bear his reproach and go forth unto him outside the camp. We will receive the assurance that our sins are forgiven, and we will receive a new life.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,146                                  💚 March 30, 2024 💚 Saturday 💚

"A minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man." (Hebrews 8:2)

The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the great events that brought about eternal redemption through His sufferings. There is a tabernacle in heaven according to the pattern of the tabernacle in this world in the Old Testament. This is what is said in the Epistle to the Hebrews: "Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things..." (Hebrews 8:5)

Once a year, the high priest would go into the earthly tabernacle after purifying himself with the blood of animals. But our Lord Jesus Christ said, "Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood, he entered once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." (Hebrews 9:12)

The Holy place of the Old Testament Tabernacle was hidden and divided by a long curtain. This is, "And thou shalt hang up the vail under the taches, that thou mayest bring in thither within the vail the ark of the testimony: and the vail shall divide unto you between the holy place and the most holy." (Exodus 26:33), we read.

Only the priest can enter it. Our Lord Jesus Christ made heavenly redemption by His own blood. As a symbol of this, the curtain of the church torn in two when he died. "And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom." (Mark 15:38) These words are specifically written to explain this purpose to us.

"Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 10:19) we have obtained the right to join God the Father through him. We will not be alone there. The Lord Jesus Christ will be with us. This is, "We have a high priest who officiates in the holy place and in the true tabernacle, established not by men but by the Lord," says today's meditation verse.

Consider the way Christ has made for us. We are unholy people. Those who do not deserve to approach the Father. But our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ has given us this great blessing. Therefore, it is necessary for us to live gratefully for this.

Attending Good Friday services with emotional tears will not suffice. On the contrary, we are obliged to give thanks to Christ. It is necessary to keep this thought in us not only today but throughout our lives. Only then will the love for Christ increase and the inclinations towards worldly vices decrease. Let us live faithfully to Christ in gratitude for His supreme sacrifice.

'AATHAVAN' 📖✝ BIBLE MEDITATION No:- 1,147                  💚 March 31, 2024 💚 Sunday 💚

"And if Christ is not raised, your faith is vain; you are yet in your sins." (1 Corinthians 15:17)

Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection brought us eternal redemption. The foundation of the Christian faith is the resurrection of Christ. That is the testimony that He is a true Son of God. Without the resurrection, he would have perished, preaching righteousness like one of the ordinary saints of the world. Moreover, if he had not risen like that, we would not have had the experience of redemption in life.

Christ's redemptive experience in us is the witness that He is risen. This is what the apostle Paul said: "And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins." Yes, if he is not risen, then our faith in him is in vain. Further, "And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain." (1 Corinthians 15:14), says Paul.

Not only that, "Yeah, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ, whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not." (1 Corinthians 15:15)

The Christian belief is that all people who died in Christ will be raised again as Christ. As a result of Adam's sin, death came into the world. The sin of Adam led all people straight into sin and death.

Likewise, the death and resurrection of Christ, the second Adam, give us redemption and life." For since by man came death, by man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:21–22)

Beloved, this is the message of the Resurrection. Our lives do not end when we live and die in the world. Our imperishable souls will be resurrected, and our bodies will be regenerated by Christ and attain immortality. Therefore, it is necessary for us to keep our soul and body holy so that we are worthy of resurrection.

The reason is that we must stand before the Lord's judgement seat. The good we have done must be rewarded. Not only that, "for this corruptible must put on corruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So, when this corruptible shall have put on corruption and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory." (1 Corinthians 15:53, 54)

As Christ conquered death, so we Christians conquered death. Yes, the Christian is not dead and buried; instead, he is sown. Let us live like the good seeds that are sown. Let us grow, bear fruit, and proclaim Christ to the world through us. Let us live like Christ, who conquered death and rose to life. May Christ give us the strength for that.