- Bro. M. Geo Prakash
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,455
AATHAVAN 💚 February 01, 2025. 💚
Saturday
"Little children, it is
the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are
there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time." (1 John
2:18 KJV)
When I was a child, in Sunday
school, my teacher told me many stories about the Antichrist. She said,
"The Antichrist will be a cruel person. When he comes, he will capture
those who believe in Christ and force them to worship him. Those who refuse will
be fried in oil. But if we remain steadfast in our faith in Christ and refuse
to worship the Antichrist, Christ will take us to heaven."
As a child, I was terrified of
the Antichrist. I wondered what I would do if he came and forced me to worship
him. But as I grew older, I realized these were just stories and laughed at my
old fears. Even today, many Christians have misconceptions about the
Antichrist.
However, today's verse says,
"even now are there many antichrists." So, who are these antichrists?
The Apostle John says, "he is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the
Son." (1 John 2:22 KJV) Yes, dear ones, there are such people in the
Christian world today.
Some groups, like the
Jehovah's Witnesses, do not accept Jesus Christ as the true God. They call him
"Jehovah's first creation." Others say, "Jesus Christ is
everything," and deny God the Father. Jesus Christ said, "And this is
life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ,
whom thou hast sent." (John 17:3 KJV) That is, we must believe in God the
Father and in Jesus Christ, whom He sent. Only those who do this have eternal
life.
In contrast, the Word of God
says, "he is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son." The
Antichrist will not physically harm us, but he will try to turn us away from
our faith. There are many such antichrists today, and this is how we know that
it is the last time, as today's verse says.
Yes, dear ones, if we want to
avoid being deceived, we must know and understand the Bible well. In
particular, John chapter 17 clearly explains the relationship between the
Father and the Son. Let us protect our hearts from being deceived by antichrist
teachings.
Christ existed with the Father
before the creation of the world. The Father sent Him into the world. If we
believe this, we will see the glory of Christ. "Father, I will that they
also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my
glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of
the world." (John 17:24 KJV) Did not Jesus Christ pray this to the Father?
This is the truth, and those
who do not accept it are the antichrists.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,456
AATHAVAN 💚
February 02, 2025 💚
Sunday
"For the law made nothing
perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh
unto God." (Hebrews 7:19, KJV)
As human beings, God desires
that we live in a manner pleasing to Him and ultimately attain eternal life,
which is everlasting. For this purpose, He gave various commandments through
Moses to guide humanity. These are what we refer to as the commandments of the
law.
However, the commandments of
the Old Testament law, given by God, could not perfect humanity or make them
acceptable to God. This is precisely what today’s meditation verse
states: "For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of
a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God." In other
words, it is not the commandments of the law but our faith in Christ Jesus that
sets us free and brings us to God.
The commandments of the law
reveal what is sin and what is not, but they cannot deliver us from sin. To
address this, Christ established a new covenant through His blood. For this
very purpose, He came to earth as a man. As we read in the book of Romans: "For
what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending
his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the
flesh." (Romans 8:3, KJV)
Yes, dear friends, we must not
consider the salvation Christ has graciously provided as something trivial. If
the commandments of the law were sufficient, then Christ’s suffering and death
would have been in vain. The apostle Paul says, "I do not
frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ
is dead in vain." (Galatians 2:21, KJV)
The law produces
self-righteousness, but faith in Christ leads us to God’s righteousness.
Therefore, we cannot consider ourselves righteous merely by obeying
commandments. If we live with such a mindset, we will be like the Pharisees of
Jesus’ time. Instead, let us live as those who have complete faith in Christ.
Paul the apostle
continues: "And be found in him, not having mine own
righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of
Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith." (Philippians
3:9, KJV) It is not by obeying commandments but by faith that we draw near to
God.
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,457
AATHAVAN 💚 February 03, 2025 – Monday 💚
"For Israel hath
forgotten his Maker, and buildeth temples; and Judah hath multiplied fenced
cities: but I will send a fire upon his cities, and it shall devour the palaces
thereof." (Hosea 8:14, KJV)
"Israel" and
"Judah" here refer to God's chosen people. According to the New
Testament, we, as spiritual Christians, are now Israel and Judah.
God desires that His people
serve Him in truth and live a life that pleases Him. However, we, whom He has
chosen, tend to forget His commandments—forget Him—and instead engage in vain
religious rituals, building earthly temples, celebrating festivals, and
indulging in various activities, all while living a life that neglects the one
true God.
Furthermore, today's
meditation verse says, "Judah hath multiplied fenced cities." This
implies that people, instead of seeking God, are preoccupied with amassing
worldly wealth and chasing material possessions.
Without giving God the honour
He deserves or obeying His commandments, many people are engrossed in mere
religious activities and striving for material gain. Concerning such people,
God declares in today's Scripture: "I will send a fire upon his cities,
and it shall devour the palaces thereof." In other words, though a life
lived apart from God may seem prosperous now, it will not last; it will
ultimately perish.
Dear beloved, what we need to
build is not temples made of brick and mortar, but our own bodies—the temple of
God. Just as the prophet Hosea warns in today’s verse, the apostle Paul also
cautions us that if we destroy God's temple (our body), God will destroy us.
"Know ye not that ye are
the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man
defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy,
which temple ye are." (1 Corinthians 3:16-17, KJV)
Yes, dear ones, we must
prioritize building up the temple that is our own body. Rather than merely
running towards church ministries, it is essential to establish a personal
connection with God. Forgetting our Maker while building temples and
multiplying fenced cities (worldly riches) is futile. The Lord warns:
"I will send a fire upon
his cities, and it shall devour the palaces thereof." (Hosea 8:14, KJV)
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,458
AATHAVAN 💚
February 04, 2025. 💚
Tuesday
"Thus saith the
Lord; Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work
shall be rewarded, saith the Lord..."
(Jeremiah 31:16)
The troubles and sufferings of
this world sometimes affect us deeply. No matter how great a person may be,
certain losses are too painful to endure. These afflictions are not limited to
the wicked; even those who do good and live according to God's will face
trials.
"All things come alike to
all: there is one event to the righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to
the clean, and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that
sacrificeth not: as is the good, so is the sinner; and he that sweareth, as he
that feareth an oath." (Ecclesiastes 9:2)
Even though everything happens
alike to all, if we put our trust in the Lord and live a life that pleases Him,
He will be our comforter in such times of distress. That is why, in today's
meditation verse, He speaks to us: "Refrain thy voice from weeping, and
thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded."
During difficult times, many
often ask: "What wrong have I done? I have done so many good deeds. Why is
my life turning out this way?" But God never does anything without a
purpose. If we live a truthful life that pleases Him, one loss will lead to a
greater blessing in our lives.
"For God is not
unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward
his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister."
(Hebrews 6:10)
Unlike men, God does not
forget. Therefore, when we face trials, He has already prepared a way for us to
endure and overcome them. Let us not turn away from the Lord but remain
steadfast in faith.
For, "There hath no
temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who
will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the
temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."
(1 Corinthians 10:13)
May the Lord, who is the
author and finisher of our faith, help us to keep our faith strong!
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,459
AATHAVAN💚 February 05, 2025 💚
Wednesday
"The grass withereth, the
flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever." (Isaiah
40:8, KJV)
The God who created and
governs this entire universe remains the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Similarly, the words that proceed from His mouth are also eternal and
imperishable. It is by these eternal words of God that all the heavens and the
earth were formed. We, too, receive the experience of salvation or being born
again through His Word.
The apostle Peter affirms
this, saying, "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of
incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." (1
Peter 1:23, KJV) The words of God redeem us from sin, grant us freedom,
and help us attain eternal life.
Not only that, but God’s words
also create, sustain, and even destroy. As it is written, "But the
heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store,
reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men."
(2 Peter 3:7, KJV)
Continuing with today’s
meditation verse, the apostle Peter writes, "For all flesh is as
grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth,
and the flower thereof falleth away: But the word of the Lord endureth for ever.
And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you." (1 Peter
1:24-25, KJV) This means that the proclamation of the gospel is the
declaration of God’s imperishable words.
God’s imperishable words are
not like grass or flowers that fade away. Instead, His words accomplish the
purposes He has planned. As it is written, "For as the rain cometh
down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the
earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower,
and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:
it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,
and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." (Isaiah 55:10-11,
KJV) Therefore, it is essential for us to be eager about God’s words and
to treasure them in our hearts.
The righteous Job understood
this truth well. That is why he said, "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, KJV) Just as we preserve food in
refrigerators to prevent it from spoiling, Job stored God’s words in the
"refrigerator" of his heart and guarded them carefully.
Yes, dear friends, because Job
guarded God’s words in this way, he was able to endure great suffering. Let us
also store God’s words in our hearts and protect them. In times of trouble,
they will be the medicine that sustains us.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,460
AATHAVAN 💚
February 06, 2025 💚
Thursday
"I am come to send
fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?" (Luke
12:49, KJV)
The Holy Spirit is compared to
fire in the Scriptures. As Christians, it is essential for us to receive this
fire and be alive, fervent, and ablaze in the Spirit. The reason is that only
when the power of the Holy Spirit works within us as fire can we shake off the
sins and impurities of the world and advance in our spiritual lives.
This is precisely what the
Lord Jesus Christ speaks of in today’s meditation verse: "I am
come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already
kindled?" His very purpose in coming to earth as a man was to
save and deliver us from our sins. Therefore, He desires that the fire of the
Holy Spirit, which burns away sin, would ignite and spread across the world.
John the Baptist also spoke of
this: "I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I
cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: He shall baptize
you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." (Luke 3:16, KJV). Yes,
dear ones, the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire is absolutely necessary for
each of us. Only then can we live a victorious life pleasing to God.
Jesus Christ, after His death,
resurrection, and ascension into heaven, first gave this fiery Spirit to His
disciples. We read: - "And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as
of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy
Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them
utterance." (Acts 2:3-4, KJV)
Many Christians lack
understanding and clarity about the Holy Spirit. They live their spiritual
lives neither cold nor hot, just like ordinary worldly people. "So
then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out
of my mouth." (Revelation 3:16, KJV), says the Lord God.
Because many have not fully
accepted Christ and His words, they have been unable to receive the Holy Spirit
in their lives. "Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot
receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He
dwelleth with you, and shall be in you." (John 14:17, KJV), said
Jesus Christ.
Many Christians do not have a
proper understanding of the Holy Spirit, thinking it is a teaching reserved
only for certain denominations. At times, they even mock those who worship in
the Spirit, calling them "Hallelujah groups."
But the truth of the Scripture
is this: when we fully accept Christ, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us.
He leads us. As Jesus said, "Ye know Him; for He dwelleth with
you, and shall be in you."
As Christians, God desires
each of us to be a spark of fire. He has placed this fire on earth through
Christ, and He wants it to ignite within us and spread to fill the world.
To fulfil the heart’s desire
of Christ, we must be filled and anointed by the fire of the Holy Spirit. Let
us wait upon God and pray, crying out, "Fill me, Lord Jesus!" Let us
live as those ablaze in the Spirit.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,461
AATHAVAN 💚
February 07, 2025 💚
Friday
"Seek good, and
not evil, that ye may live: and so the Lord, the God of hosts, shall be with
you, as ye have spoken." (Amos 5:14, KJV)
Today, in most gospel
meetings, the focus is primarily on messages of blessing. Many ministries
advertise "Blessing Fasting Prayers" and invite people to attend,
claiming that everyone who participates will be blessed. However, today’s
meditation verse reminds us that this approach is flawed.
We cannot receive God’s
blessings simply by attending gospel meetings organized by ministers. Fasting,
or abstaining from food, does not guarantee that God will bless us. Reading
devotionals like “Aathavan” Scripture Meditations or attending
prayer meetings alone cannot earn us God’s blessings. Neither can reading the
Bible or participating in devotional gatherings secure God’s favour.
Yes, dear friends, as today’s
meditation verse says, "Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live:
and so the Lord, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken." If
we attend church services and gospel meetings, worship God, but fail to
transform our personal lives and continue walking in sinful ways, God cannot be
with us or work through us.
This is why the Apostle Paul
urges us not to be empty worshippers but to offer ourselves as living
sacrifices, which is our reasonable service. First and foremost, we must
surrender ourselves as holy and acceptable living sacrifices to God. "I
beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your
bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable
service." (Romans 12:1, KJV)
Without surrendering ourselves
as holy and pleasing living sacrifices to God and engaging in reasonable
worship, one may still participate in various religious activities. Regularly
attending church, praying, and reading the Bible are commendable, but if we
think that God is with us solely because of these actions, we are mistaken.
Through today’s meditation verse, God speaks to us: "Seek good,
and not evil, that ye may live: and so the Lord, the God of hosts, shall be
with you, as ye have spoken."
For God to be with us, we must
examine ourselves. How does our life stand before God? What are our personal
actions like? Let us first strive to correct our wrongdoings. Let us repent of
our sins and seek forgiveness from God. Then, as we think and speak, the Lord,
the God of hosts, will be with us.
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,462
AATHAVAN
💚 February 08, 2025 - Saturday
"For, behold, the
darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD
shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee." (Isaiah
60:2, KJV)
If we live a life pleasing to
God in this world, He will surely help us in times of distress. Even if the
entire world is engulfed in darkness, God's children will have a glorious and
radiant life. This is exactly what today's meditation verse says:
"For, behold, the
darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD
shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee." (Isaiah
60:2, KJV)
When we look at some
prosperous people in this world through spiritual eyes, we can perceive their
spiritual poverty. Similarly, those who seem to lack worldly wealth may
actually be spiritually rich. This becomes especially evident during times of
tribulation.
When Moses led the Israelites
from Egypt toward Canaan, Pharaoh’s chariots pursued them to destroy them. The
Israelites were weak; they had no military training or weapons to fight. But
God was with them. At that moment, the angel of the Lord stood as a pillar of
fire and a cloud to protect them. When the Egyptians drew near, the angel of
God moved behind the Israelites and shielded them.
As the scripture says: "And
it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a
cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the
one came not near the other all the night." (Exodus 14:20, KJV)
Yes! While the Egyptians were
in darkness, God's people walked in the light.
Dear beloved, God never
forsakes His children. Even when life seems as dark as night, just as He stood
as a pillar of fire to protect the Israelites, He will also guard us.
Therefore, when we walk righteously before God, we need not fear.
Similarly, when Abimelech and
his people, who once despised Isaac, came to him, they said: "We saw
certainly that the LORD was with thee: and we said, Let there be now an oath
betwixt us, even betwixt us and thee, and let us make a covenant with
thee." (Genesis 26:28, KJV)
Yes, God blessed Isaac to such
an extent that even the world recognized His presence with him. Likewise, when
we live a truly righteous life, one day the world will see that God is with us.
Let us surrender ourselves to
live a life that pleases God. Then, even if darkness covers the earth and thick
darkness surrounds the people, the LORD will arise upon us, and His glory will
be seen upon us!
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,463
AATHAVAN 💚 February 09, 2025. 💚
Sunday
"Let us search and try
our ways, and turn again to the LORD. Let us lift up our heart with our hands
unto God in the heavens." (Lamentations 3:40-41, KJV)
Today's meditation verse
instructs us to live a life of true repentance. Mere prayer without a sincere
transformation of the heart is meaningless. Our hearts must first be turned
toward God. As it is written: "Let us lift up our heart with our hands
unto God in the heavens."
Along with lifting our hands
in prayer, it is essential that our hearts are also lifted up to God in
sincerity and truth.
Today, many people take pride
in their denominational affiliations and express strong loyalty to their
Christian sects. However, this is not what God considers important. What He
expects from us is a life of repentance and a Christian Walk that bears fruit.
During the time of Christ, the
Jews took pride in calling themselves descendants of Abraham. But John the
Baptist warned them that true repentance is more important than heritage:
"Bring forth therefore
fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have
Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to
raise up children unto Abraham." (Luke 3:8, KJV)
Dear beloved, it is of no
value for us to boast, saying, "I am a Roman Catholic," "I
belong to the CSI Church and am devoted to it," "I worship in
a Pentecostal church with spiritual fervour," "I am part of
the Salvation Army," "I am a Lutheran..." etc. Just
as God could raise children to Abraham from stones, He can also create people
from different backgrounds to fill various churches.
What truly matters is that our
hearts must be lifted toward God. If our hearts are not turned toward Him and
if we do not live a life that bears fruit, we cannot experience true Christian
living.
"And now also the axe is
laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth
good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
(Luke 3:9, KJV)
Let us examine our lives,
review our past ways, and return to the Lord. Instead of merely lifting our
hands in prayer and going through religious motions, let us lift up our hearts
along with our hands to the God of heaven. Let us long for a life of true
repentance. May the warning, "Every tree which bringeth not forth good
fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire," serve as a solemn reminder
to us.
Bible Meditation - No: 1,465
AATHAVAN💚
February 10, 2025. 💚
Monday
"And some of them
said, Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that
even this man should not have died?" (John
11:37)
Today's meditation verse
highlights the mindset of people who, without understanding God's higher
purpose, tend to look at things with a limited perspective. When we live a
spiritual life, some may speak similarly about us: "Couldn't this have
been done differently? Shouldn't it have happened another way?"
When a skilled artist paints a
picture, at first, we may not understand what he is creating. There might not
be any visible beauty. But after a few days, when the painting is complete, we
will recognize its beauty. Similarly, when a sculptor chisels a stone, we may
not initially perceive what he is shaping. But in the end, we will admire his
work.
Likewise, many events in our
lives unfold in a similar manner. Since we do not know God's plan for us, we
often complain against Him. Yes, dear ones, but God has a divine purpose for
everything. I once worried about not getting a good job. But God had a different
plan for me. If I had secured a worldly job, I might have earned a lot of
money, but I would have missed knowing the true riches—Christ Jesus.
When Lazarus died, the Jews
who were present spoke these words about Jesus, as mentioned in today's
meditation verse. The one who opened the eyes of the blind could have kept
Lazarus from dying. But God's will was far greater than that. Lazarus had to die
so that Jesus could raise him on the fourth day, and through this, Christ would
be glorified. If Lazarus had not died, this miraculous event would not have
taken place.
The same happened when Christ
was crucified.
"And the people stood
beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others;
let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God." (Luke
23:35)
But the will of the Father was
that Christ should die and be glorified. Through this, He attained that glory.
As we read:
"But we see Jesus, who
was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned
with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every
man." (Hebrews 2:9)
Likewise, at times, people may
speak trivial words about us. But when we live in close fellowship with God, He
will reveal His will to us, allowing us to remain unshaken. When the Almighty
God is with us, He will elevate our present and future, and through us, the
glory of Christ will be revealed to others.
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,466
AATHAVAN 💚 February 11, 2025 💚
Tuesday
"But I am poor and needy;
yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no
tarrying, O my God." (Psalm 40:17)
Today's meditation verse is a
prayer where King David expresses his condition before God. In the first part
of this verse, David humbly acknowledges his state, saying, "But I am poor
and needy."
Even though David became a
king, his journey was not an immediate rise to power. He was considered
insignificant in his own family. He faced immense challenges from King Saul and
even from his own son. His enemies constantly sought to take his life. He had
to fight many battles against rival kings. Yet, God, in His grace, sustained
David and guided him through all these difficulties.
David lived in close communion
with God, and therefore, he was able to feel the presence of the Lord. That is
why he confidently declares in his prayer, "Yet the Lord thinketh upon me:
thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God." As David
prayed, God remembered him and delivered him from all his troubles and enemies.
Dearly beloved, we must also
have this same assurance. Can we say with confidence like David, "The Lord
thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer"? This is only
possible if we have a deep and clear relationship with God.
Apostle Paul also had this
firm assurance. He experienced the presence of God as a helper throughout his
ministry. That is why he testifies, "Notwithstanding the Lord stood with
me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and
that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the
lion." (2 Timothy 4:17) Because of this divine strength, Paul's epistles
continue to edify our spirits even today.
When God’s presence is with
us, no matter what trials come our way—even fierce tribulations like those Paul
faced—we will remain strong. However, the foundation for this is the humble
attitude that David expresses in today’s meditation verse: "But I am poor
and needy." Just as water flows downward from a high place, God's grace
descends upon those who have a humble heart.
Mary, the mother of Jesus,
also humbled herself and acknowledged, "For he hath regarded the low
estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall
call me blessed." (Luke 1:48) Because of her humility, all generations have
called her blessed.
Let us also cultivate a humble
heart. Then, the Lord will remember us, be our helper, and deliver us.
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,467
AATHAVAN 💚 February 12, 2025. 💚
Wednesday
"Son, thou art ever with me, and all that
I have is thine." (Luke 15:31, KJV)
God desires that we live with
Him in a relationship of intimacy and rightful inheritance. We are not beggars;
we are His rightful children. He expects us to live with this understanding.
However, many today stand before God like beggars, pleading desperately with
numerous petitions.
Let us take an example from
our own family. If we are born as sons and daughters to our parents, we have
rightful access to all that belongs to them. Even the laws of the land affirm
this. As long as the father or mother does not deny it, children have complete
rights to their parents' property.
God follows this same
principle. That is exactly what He reveals to us in today’s meditation verse.
When the younger son demanded his share of the inheritance and squandered
everything, he later repented and returned to his father. The father not only
accepted him but also rejoiced over his return. This made the elder son
somewhat frustrated, and he expressed his displeasure to his father.
Through this parable, Jesus
Christ reveals a profound truth: "Son, thou art ever with me, and all that
I have is thine." (Luke 15:31, KJV)
Yes, beloved, when we live in
a close relationship with God, we naturally inherit all that belongs to Him. We
do not have to wander like beggars, pleading for His blessings. When we seek
God’s kingdom and His righteousness, we become His children.
That is why Jesus said: "But
seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things
shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33, KJV)
We may show compassion and
give a few things to a beggar. But will we not freely and abundantly provide more
for our own children without them even asking? In the same way, God assures us,
"All these things shall be added unto you."
Beloved, God wants us to live
as His sons and daughters, always remaining in His presence. If we follow the
sinful ways of the world, we cannot maintain a close relationship with Him. Let
us forsake worldly desires and carnal temptations and strive to remain in His
presence at all times. Then He will look upon us and say:
"Son / Daughter, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is
thine."
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,468
AATHAVAN 💚 February 13, 2025 💚
Thursday
"Either make the tree
good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt:
for the tree is known by his fruit." (Matthew 12:33)
Jesus Christ explains a
profound truth by comparing people to trees. Generally, we judge people as good
or bad based on their words and actions. Many politicians deceive people in
this way.
Politicians are often the
birthplace of lies. They will not hesitate to say anything to win power. Even
when they know they cannot fulfil their promises, they still make them. For
example, during a recent election campaign, a political party promised to
deposit ₹1.5 million in every citizen’s bank account if they came to power.
Although this was an impossible promise, people believed it.
Yes, beloved, not everyone who
speaks well is truly good. Their actions—their fruits—reveal their true nature.
"For the tree is known by his fruit." (Matthew 12:33). After coming
to power, the wicked fruits of politicians become evident to the world.
This truth is not limited to
politics; we see such people in our families, workplaces, and even among those
who serve God. Not all who deliver eloquent sermons are righteous. Their true
nature is revealed by their deeds.
Though we may not be able to
judge every individual in the world, we can discern public figures by their
actions. However, today, people tend to judge others based on their popularity
rather than their deeds. Many youths blindly follow actors, believing that what
they portray in movies is real.
Jesus Christ said, "A
good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth
good fruit." (Matthew 7:18). Only when we are connected to Christ can we
bear Christ-like virtues. If our roots are firmly established in Christ and
holiness, we will also live a holy life and bear good fruit. "For if the
root be holy, so are the branches." (Romans 11:16).
Therefore, instead of hastily
judging people as good or bad based on mere appearances, let us examine the
fruits they produce. A good tree will bear good fruit, and a corrupt tree will
bear corrupt fruit. If a man’s root is connected to Christ in holiness, then
his branches and the fruits he bears will also be holy.
It is not just about others or
politicians—if we want to bear good fruit, we must be connected to Christ.
Otherwise, even we who criticize others will fail to bear good fruit. Jesus
Christ said, "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me,
and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do
nothing." (John 15:5). Let us connect ourselves with Christ and strive to
bear good fruits for the world.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,469
AATHAVAN 💚 February 14, 2025 💚
Friday
"He that killeth an ox is
as if he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, as if he cut off a dog's neck;
he that offereth an oblation, as if he offered swine's blood; he that burneth
incense, as if he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and
their soul delighteth in their abominations." (Isaiah 66:3, KJV)
Today’s meditation verse
speaks about people who live wicked lives yet offer sacrifices, offerings, and
worship to God. This verse reveals that such wicked individuals continue to
delight in their sinful ways despite their outward religious acts.
In the Old Testament, we read
in the book of Leviticus about how people would slaughter sheep and oxen before
God, sprinkling their blood to receive forgiveness for their sins. However,
today’s meditation verse points to those who perform such rituals out of mere
duty, without genuine repentance.
Though we no longer offer
animal sacrifices today, we have received something far greater—the precious
blood of Christ, which has redeemed our souls. Therefore, when we worship
before God or bring large offerings to the church, this verse reminds us to examine
ourselves and correct our ways.
The verse illustrates that the
one who kills an ox for sacrifice is like one who murders his fellow man; the
one who offers a lamb is like one who betrays a loyal companion, as if cutting
off a dog’s neck; the one who brings an offering is like one who presents
swine’s blood, something detestable; and the one who burns incense is like one
who worships an idol. In the same way, today’s meditation warns us against such
hypocrisy.
The verse further
states, "Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul
delighteth in their abominations." This means that no one forces them
to act this way; it is their own nature that drives them. They willingly choose
their sinful paths and take pleasure in their abominations.
As we offer sacrifices,
worship, and bring offerings, let us examine ourselves: Are we, through our
words and actions, like those who kill their fellow human beings? Are we
betraying those who are loyal to us, as if cutting off a dog’s neck? Are we
presenting unclean things to God, like swine’s blood? Are we worshipping the
idol of greed? If we find ourselves in such a state, let us repent and correct
our ways.
God’s Word continues to warn
such people in the next verse: "I also will choose their delusions,
and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer;
when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose
that in which I delighted not." (Isaiah 66:4, KJV)
Let us heed God’s Word, repent
of our wrongdoings, and guard ourselves against His judgment.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,470
AATHAVAN 💚
February 15, 2025 💚
Saturday
"As the hart panteth
after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God." (Psalm
42:1, KJV)
We have already meditated on
today's scripture verse in a previous "Aathavan" meditation. However,
today we will meditate on this verse from a new perspective. King David
expresses the longing of his heart in this meditation verse. He reveals why his
soul thirsts for God in the third verse of the same Psalm:
"My tears have been my
meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?"
(Psalm 42:3, KJV). Here, David is being mocked by his enemies. They taunt him,
saying, "Are you such a great devotee? What is the use of your prayers to
God? If the God you pray to is real, where is He now? Why hasn't He answered
your prayers?" Such words deeply trouble David, and he prays with tears.
He compares his anguish to a deer panting for water in a dry and barren land.
Similarly, when our Lord Jesus
Christ hung on the cross, people tormented Him in the same way. We read in
Matthew 27:42-43 (KJV): "He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be
the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe
him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he
said, I am the Son of God."
Just as David cried out, Jesus
Christ also cried out in agony on the cross. "And about the ninth hour
Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to
say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46, KJV).
Yet, the Father did not forsake Him; instead, He granted Him a glorious
resurrection.
Yes, dear friends, in this
world, we may sometimes be despised or humiliated by others. They may mock us,
saying, "This person keeps calling on Jesus and praying, but if Jesus is
real, why is this person still struggling? There’s no change in their life!"
Some may even say this openly. But our prayers, like the deer panting for
water, will not go unanswered. God will respond to us. Just as David prayed and
Jesus Christ prayed, let us continue to pray with perseverance and courage.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,471
AATHAVAN 💚 February 16, 2025 💚
Sunday
"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, KJV)
Today, under the name of
"preaching the Gospel," we see various kinds of confusing and
distorted teachings being propagated. Ministers who prioritize themselves over
Christ, churches that elevate saints, and the tragic focus on miracles, wonders,
and worldly blessings under the guise of spirituality—these have undeniably
become a curse to Christianity.
The Apostle John, in today’s
meditation verse, provides clarity on why the Gospel was written and contrasts
it with the erroneous practices in today’s Christian world. The primary purpose
of the Gospel is to make it clear to people that Jesus is the Christ, the Son
of God. Only when people understand this can they receive eternal life through
His name. Life on earth is not the end to men; rather, there is a life after
our death and that is eternal and unending.
The Gospel was written so that
we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing,
we may have eternal life through His name. However, in most Gospel preaching
today, Christ is not proclaimed, nor is eternal life discussed. Yet, God
desires that "all men should be saved and come to the knowledge of the
truth" (1 Timothy 2:4, KJV). For this purpose, He inspired His servants to
write the Gospel.
But today, many speak with a
careless attitude, introducing irrelevant traditional practices and rituals.
These things do not lead us or our souls directly to salvation. Traditional
rituals and worship practices do not help us know God.
"For God so loved the
world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him
should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16, KJV). Yet, many
fail to teach this supreme purpose of God the Father—that we should not perish
but have eternal life—and instead focus on worldly blessings, urging believers
to pray for such things. They also call themselves ministers of God.
Beloved, Jesus Christ, sent by
God the Father into the world, is the only one who can connect us with the
Father. He alone can intercede for us before the Father. "For there
is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who
gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." (1 Timothy
2:5-6, KJV).
Therefore, we must first live
as those with unshakable faith in Christ. We must believe that He alone can
intercede for us before the Father. We must accept that He alone can deliver us
from sin and lead us directly to eternal life. Those who accept all these
truths are true Christians.
This is why John, the beloved
disciple, says, "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." Let us believe the Scriptures, accept them, obey
them, and become partakers of eternal life.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,472
AATHAVAN 💚
February 17, 2025 💚
Monday
"Entreat me not to
leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I
will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people,
and thy God my God." (Ruth 1:16, KJV)
Today’s meditation verse is
spoken by Ruth, a Moabite woman. Ruth was not originally part of the Jewish
people chosen by God. However, because of her deep love for her Jewish
mother-in-law, she firmly decided to worship the Lord whom her mother-in-law served.
For this reason, she left her own country and people to accompany her
mother-in-law to Judah.
Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi,
had gone to live in Moab with her husband and two sons due to a famine.
However, after the death of her husband and two sons, Naomi decided to return
to her homeland. At that time, she blessed her two daughters-in-law and urged
them to return to their parents, remarry, and live with their families. One
daughter-in-law kissed Naomi and left, but Ruth clung to her and said, "Entreat
me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou
goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my
people, and thy God my God." (Ruth 1:16, KJV). With this
declaration, Ruth returned to Judah with Naomi.
Beloved, are we as devoted to
God as Ruth was? Loving one’s mother-in-law is commendable, but it is rare for
someone to so easily change their faith. Ruth firmly declared, "Thy
people shall be my people, and thy God my God." Her decision to
follow God was honored by Him, and she was included in the genealogy of Jesus
Christ, our Savior. In Matthew 1:5-6 (KJV), we read, "And Salmon
begat Boaz of Rachab; and Boaz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; and
Jesse begat David the king."
Ruth became the
great-grandmother of David, the beloved king of the Old Testament. This is also
recorded in the Book of Ruth: "And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz
begat Obed, and Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David." (Ruth
4:21-22, KJV).
Even today, those who turn to
Christianity from other faiths often demonstrate a genuine love for Christ and
a firmness in faith, much like Ruth. They leave behind their old beliefs and
cling to Christ, declaring, "Thy people shall be my people, and
thy God my God."
Beloved, if we foolishly
say, "All gods are the same; all rivers flow into the same
ocean," it shows a lack of faith. But if we, like Ruth, are
willing to sacrifice our ancestral gods and relationships for the Lord, God
will honor and bless us.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,473
AATHAVAN 💚
February 18, 2025 💚
Tuesday
"Behold, the
whirlwind of the LORD goeth forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind: it shall
fall with pain upon the head of the wicked." (Jeremiah
30:23, KJV)
When we live according to
God’s Word, we lead a life that is pleasing to Him. Otherwise, wicked thoughts
and actions will take root in us, leading us into a life of sin. Today’s
meditation verse warns us of the consequences of such a life.
Wickedness does not manifest
in a person overnight. It is a gradual process. When we neglect God and His
Word in small matters, it eventually leads us into complete wickedness. The
testimonies of many youths addicted to alcohol illustrate this truth.
Many young people claim that
they became addicted to alcohol due to peer pressure. Initially, they start
with a small amount, perhaps just a "peg." Gradually, it increases,
turning them into full-fledged alcoholics. Similarly, sin works in our lives.
When we disregard God’s Word, even in small ways, it leads us deeper into
wickedness. But God warns those who live in wickedness, saying, "Behold,
the whirlwind of the LORD goeth forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind: it
shall fall with pain upon the head of the wicked." (Jeremiah
30:23, KJV)
This is why our Lord Jesus
Christ compares those who live according to His Word to a wise man who built
his house on a rock. "Therefore, whosoever heareth these sayings
of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his
house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds
blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a
rock." (Matthew 7:24-25, KJV)
Yes, dear friends, when we
live according to His Word, we are like the wise man who built his house on a
solid rock—a firm foundation. Otherwise, we become like the foolish man who
built his house on sand. As today’s meditation verse warns, the wrath of the
Lord can come upon anyone who lives a disobedient life at any time.
Let us be wise and build our
house on the rock, which is Jesus Christ. To build on Him means to obey His
Word. When we do so, we can live a righteous life, and no storm will be able to
overcome us.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,474
AATHAVAN 💚
February 19, 2025 💚
Wednesday
"That they may
know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside
me. I am the LORD, and there is none else. I form the light, and create
darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things." (Isaiah
45:6-7, KJV)
Today’s meditation verse
explains why God has chosen to make Himself known to us. It is so that people
from the east, where the sun rises, to the west, where it sets, may know that
there is no God besides the Lord. This means that through our testimonial
lives, we must proclaim Him to the world; that is, He chose us so that we may
proclaim Him to the world through our life of testimony.
This is also reflected in the
Book of Acts, where our Lord Jesus Christ tells His disciples, "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,
KJV).
Until now, even though we did
not know the Lord personally, He revealed Himself to us for this very purpose,
as today’s meditation verse declares. The latter part of the verse
states, "That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from
the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none
else." The phrase "I form the light, and create
darkness" signifies the power of the Holy Spirit.
Yes, dear friends, though we
did not know Him, He revealed Himself to us, anointed us with His Spirit, and
appointed us to be true witnesses for God. If we live as true witnesses
empowered by the Spirit, the salvation we have received will become a
protective wall around us, guarding our lives. The praise of the Lord will
continually be on our lips.
This is what the Lord declares
through the prophet Isaiah: "Violence shall no more be heard in
thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy
walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise." (Isaiah 60:18, KJV). Not
only that, but He also 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, KJV).
We are witnesses to the truth
that there is no God besides our Lord, from the rising of the sun to its
setting. For this purpose, God has revealed Himself to us, even when we did not
know Him. Let us live worthy of His trust.
By proclaiming Him, God will
bless us. The Lord Himself will be our everlasting light, and our days of
sorrow will come to an end. Let us surrender ourselves to live a life of
testimony.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,475
AATHAVAN 💚 February 20, 2025 💚
Thursday
"He shall send from
heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah.
God shall send forth His mercy and His truth." (Psalm 57:3, KJV)
While fleeing from Saul, who
sought to kill him, David hid in a cave in the mountains. Today’s meditation
verse is a song David sang to God during such a critical moment.
This verse reveals David’s
steadfast faith in God. With confidence, he declares, "He shall send
from heaven, and save me." Just two verses before this, David pleads
with God, saying, "Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me:
for my soul trusteth in Thee: yea, in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my
refuge, until these calamities be overpast." (Psalm 57:1, KJV)
We have seen how chicks seek
shelter under the wings of a mother hen when a hawk circles above. Similarly,
David says, "In the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge, until
these calamities be overpast." After this, David does not despair. He
places his burden on the Lord and finds peace.
Yes, dear ones, this
meditation Psalm serves as a guide for us. It is not merely about praying, but
like David, we must declare with firm faith, "God shall send forth
His mercy and His truth." In our difficult situations, we must make
declarations of faith and wait patiently. God will surely honour it. Even in
negative life circumstances, we must remain steadfast in our faith, regardless
of the situation.
In the New Testament, many who
received healing through our Lord Jesus Christ used the weapon of faith and
achieved victory.
Like today’s meditation verse,
the entire Bible is filled with God’s words that help strengthen our faith. As
we read the Scriptures, our faith will grow stronger. Indeed, "For
the needy shall not always be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not
perish forever." (Psalm 9:18, KJV) Let us bring our problems to Him
with hope and expect His miracles in our lives. Just as David expressed his
faith in words, let us also declare our faith to God.
No matter who the enemy is
that seeks to swallow us up, God will send help from heaven and save us. He
will send forth His mercy and His truth. "When the enemy shall come
in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him."
(Isaiah 59:19, KJV) Let us live without fear, but with faith.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,476
AATHAVAN 💚
February 21, 2025 💚
Friday
"Beloved, I wish
above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul
prospereth." (3 John 1:2, KJV)
Today’s meditation verse is
commonly used in wedding ceremonies to bless newlyweds. The phrase, "that
thou mayest prosper and be in health," makes it a popular verse
for blessing couples. However, this verse is also one that each of us should
experience and live out in our daily lives.
This verse is not merely a
blessing but comes with a condition that we often overlook. The condition is
found in the words, "even as thy soul prospereth." First
and foremost, our soul must prosper. This means our soul must be saved from
destruction and redeemed by the Lord Jesus Christ to attain true life. When our
soul prospers in this way, it becomes a spiritual blessing.
When our soul prospers as a
blessing, all other blessings will follow in our lives. This is what our Lord
Jesus Christ meant when He said, "But seek ye first the kingdom of
God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew
6:33, KJV).
Furthermore, the Scripture
says, "The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth
shall be watered also himself." (Proverbs 11:25, KJV). The
term "liberal soul" in the English Bible refers to a
generous or magnanimous spirit. This generous spirit grows within us only when
Christ abides in us.
When we live with such a
magnanimous spirit in our soul, we are truly living in our soul. It is to such
people that the apostle John says in today’s meditation verse, "Beloved,
I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy
soul prospereth."
This is why the Psalmist also
prays, "Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O Thou my God, save Thy
servant that trusteth in Thee." (Psalm 86:2, KJV), and "Rejoice
the soul of Thy servant: for unto Thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul." (Psalm
86:4, KJV).
We too must pray to God for
our soul to prosper. Not only that, but it is also essential to engage in godly
activities that help our soul prosper. When we live in this way, we will
prosper and be in health in all things, as today’s meditation verse declares.
Scripture Meditation - No: 1,477
AATHAVAN 💚 February 22, 2025. 💚
Saturday
"But I say unto you, That
in this place is one greater than the temple." (Matthew 12:6, KJV)
There are many towering
temples in this world, built by human hands. People give great importance to
these temples, offering sacrifices, making pilgrimages, and worshiping them
with devotion. However, Jesus Christ openly declared to the Jews that He is greater
than the temple. To the Jews, this seemed like blasphemy.
When Jesus Christ claimed that
He was greater than the temple, He was declaring that He Himself is God.
Furthermore, He clearly stated: "Behold, a greater than Solomon is
here." (Matthew 12:42), "Behold, a greater than Jonas is here."
(Matthew 12:41), and "Before Abraham was, I am." (John 8:58).
Additionally, in the Epistle to the Hebrews, we read: "For this man was
counted worthy of more glory than Moses." (Hebrews 3:3).
Dearly beloved, the Lord Jesus
Christ, who possesses such power and greatness, desires to dwell among us, mere
human beings. When He comes and abides in us, we ourselves become His temple.
The place where God dwells is the temple. Did not Jesus Christ say, "If a
man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will
come unto him, and make our abode with him." (John 14:23)?
Therefore, we must keep our
bodies holy and worship Him. Since the One who is greater than the temple
dwells within us, we should live as those who offer reasonable worship to Him.
This is why the Apostle Paul urges, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by
the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy,
acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." (Romans 12:1).
However, claiming that Christ,
who is greater than the temple, dwells in us and then neglecting to go to
church is unwise. Such an attitude would only lead to arrogance. Even though
Jesus declared that He was greater than the temple, He Himself continued to go
to the synagogue and the temple.
In the church, we establish
fellowship with other believers. We come together to pray, worship as one body,
and express our unity. Moreover, our faithful and exemplary actions in the
church can lead others to the love of Christ.
Dearly beloved, we must give
room for Christ, who is greater than the temple, to dwell in us. At the same
time, we must make Him known to others through our witness and godly living.
When we live in this manner, we not only become true temples of God, but the
One greater than the temple will continue to dwell in us and work through us.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,478
AATHAVAN 💚
February 23, 2025 💚
Sunday
"Thy oils have a
pleasing fragrance; thy name is as oil poured forth; therefore, do the virgins
love thee." (Song of Solomon 1:3)
The Book of Song of Solomon in
the Bible is unique compared to all other books of Scripture. At first glance,
it may appear to be a collection of love poems. Indeed, these are love poems,
but they symbolically represent the relationship between Christ, the
Bridegroom, and us, His faithful believers. Just as a man and woman live
together in pure, natural love, these songs guide us to live in such a
relationship with Christ.
The virgins, representing
Christ’s faithful believers, love Him because of His fragrant anointing. As the
meditation verse says, "Thy name is as oil poured forth;
therefore, do the virgins love thee."
The Apostle Paul also speaks
of this, saying, "For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy:
for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste
virgin to Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:2). It is noteworthy that he
refers to Christ as the one husband. Just as a chaste virgin remains devoted to
one man, so too must we remain faithful to Christ, our one Bridegroom.
In today’s meditation verse,
the devoted believer, experiencing Christ’s love, declares, "Thy
oils have a pleasing fragrance; thy name is as oil poured forth; therefore, do
the virgins love thee." The Apostle Paul beautifully compares
this to the knowledge of Christ that believers receive, saying, "Now
thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh
manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place." (2
Corinthians 2:14).
In the following verse after
today’s meditation verse we read: "Draw me, we will run after
thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice
in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee." (Song
of Solomon 1:4).
This is echoed in the Parable
of the Ten Virgins, where our Lord Jesus Christ speaks of those who wait for
the bridegroom. Among the ten virgins, five were foolish and unprepared. While
they went to buy oil, the bridegroom arrived, and they were unable to enter the
wedding chamber with Him.
"And while they went to
buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the
marriage: and the door was shut. 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 25:10-12).
Therefore, beloved, we must
live as wise virgins, seeking Christ alone in our lives, savouring the pleasing
fragrance of His anointing, waiting for Him, and always being prepared to meet
Him. Only then can we rejoice eternally with the Bridegroom in His presence.
Scripture Meditation - No.: 1,479
AATHAVAN 💚
February 24, 2025 💚
Monday
"Be not deceived;
God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (Galatians
6:7, KJV)
The good and evil that occur
in our lives are the consequences of our actions. Therefore, we cannot mock God
or blame Him for the outcomes of our deeds. This is the message of today’s
meditation verse.
Every action we take has a
corresponding result. We cannot sow rice and expect to harvest wheat.
Similarly, we cannot live in wickedness and expect goodness in return.
In today’s verse, the Apostle
Paul uses the analogy of sowing and reaping to emphasize the importance of
doing good and the rewards that follow. He highlights that when we do good, we
will reap good in return. As he continues in the verse, "And let
us not be weary in well doing: for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint
not." (Galatians 6:9, KJV)
This principle also applies to
our spiritual lives. We cannot carry worldly desires in our hearts, labour for
them, and still expect spiritual rewards from God. Indeed, "For he
that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth
to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." (Galatians
6:8, KJV)
However, if we prioritize
spiritual matters and act accordingly, God will add other blessings to our
lives.
Moreover, just as we cannot
expect a five-acre harvest from cultivating one acre of land, God rewards us in
spiritual matters according to our efforts. The Apostle Paul further explains
this principle, saying, "But this I say, He which soweth sparingly
shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also
bountifully." (2 Corinthians 9:6, KJV)
As today’s meditation verse
reminds us, God will never act in a way that allows humans to mock Him. He is
not petty like humans. Therefore, let us remain faithful to God, strive to do
good, and trust that we will surely receive the appropriate reward from Him for
what we do in our lives.
Scripture Meditation - Number: 1,480
AATHAVAN 💚 February 25, 2025 💚
Tuesday
"After those days, saith
the Lord, I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts:
and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a
people." (Hebrews 8:10) & (Jeremiah 31:33)
God gave various commandments
through Moses so that the people of Israel might live a life pleasing to Him.
However, the people saw the commandments merely as rules and lost sight of
compassion and humanity. For example, they failed to show the importance of the
Sabbath to those who were sick.
The Jews misunderstood the
commandment regarding the Sabbath and observed it in a heartless manner.
Therefore, Jesus Christ clarified, "The Sabbath was made for man, and
not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27). In short, they did not fully
obey God's many commandments.
Thus, God planned to establish
a new covenant with His people. This was foretold through the prophet
Jeremiah: "After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into
their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and
they shall be to me a people." (Hebrews 8:10) & (Jeremiah 31:33).
God also explained how this
new covenant would differ from the old. Unlike the old covenant, the new
covenant would be one that the people could truly follow. God declared that He
would not reject His people as they had rejected His ways.
We read this in
Scripture: "Not according to the covenant that I made with their
fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of
Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not,
saith the Lord." (Hebrews 8:9).
Yes, dear friends, through our
Lord Jesus Christ, the new covenant established by grace and truth is not
written on stone tablets but on our hearts. Moreover, it is written by the
Spirit of the living God. As the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians: "Forasmuch
as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us,
written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of
stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart." (2 Corinthians 3:3).
This new covenant, given
through Christ, brings us spiritual life. Unlike the old covenant, where those
who disobeyed, the commandments were stoned to death, those who violate the new
covenant are not condemned to physical death. For "...the letter
killeth, but the spirit giveth life." (2 Corinthians 3:6). Yes, dear
friends, this is the great blessing we have received.
Although those who break the
new covenant in this world are not stoned to death, the Scripture warns us that
if we, as people of the new covenant established by the blood of Jesus Christ,
live in disobedience, we will face severe judgment.
Indeed, "Of how much
sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden underfoot
the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was
sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of
grace?" (Hebrews 10:29). Therefore, let us surrender ourselves to
live a life worthy of Him, without violating the new covenant established by
the blood of Christ Jesus.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,481
AATHAVAN 💚 February 26, 2025 💚
Wednesday
"In whom we have
boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him." (Ephesians
3:12, KJV)
Dear friends, through faith in
the Lord Jesus Christ, we gain courage regarding the life that awaits us after
death; the certainty of this gives us hope, and the opportunity to be with God.
Before writing an explanation for this meditation verse, I searched the
internet for information about the final days of atheists. The information
provided there about the final states of two prominent atheists was
astonishing; not only that, but it also made me realize that everything spoken
by our Lord Jesus Christ is the true truth. I present them below: -
- Joseph Stalin –
(Soviet revolutionary and politician). After his death, his daughter
Svetlana, in an interview with Newsweek magazine, said:
"My father died a hard and terrible death... God grants an easy
death only to the righteous. At the last moment, he suddenly opened his
eyes and looked at everyone in the room. It was a horrifying look, either
mad or angry. His left hand was raised, as if pointing to something above
and cursing everyone present. The gesture was full of threat, and his face
looked grotesque... The next morning, he was dead."
- Voltaire –
The famous anti-Christian atheist, in his final days, told his doctor, Dr.
Fochin: "...I am abandoned by God and men. If you give me six more
months to live, I will live as a changed man, and I will give you half of
my wealth." When the doctor said it was impossible, Voltaire
replied, "Then I will die and go to hell!" and
wept. His nurse later said: "I wouldn’t want to witness the death
of another atheist even if I were offered all the wealth of Europe! I wept
all night, praying for forgiveness."
In contrast, the final moments
of faithful Christians are often peaceful and joyful. Here are two testimonies:
- A hospital nurse shared: "As a
nurse, I have heard the last words of many. One of the most beautiful was
from a devout Christian woman. When I entered her room and sat on a chair
near her bed, she said, 'Oh, please don’t sit there—that’s where the angel
God sent to take me home is sitting!"
- A friend’s brother-in-law, dying of
cancer, exclaimed with great excitement:
"He (Jesus) is here! He is here! He is all around us!" Then
he laid his head on the pillow, fell asleep, and did not wake again.
Our Lord Jesus Christ
illustrated this truth in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man (Luke
16:19-31). Yes, beloved, through faith in Christ, we have boldness, confidence,
and the privilege of access to God. This unwavering hope is what grants us
salvation.
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,482
AATHAVAN 💚 February 27, 2025 💚
Thursday
"For we are made
partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto
the end." (Hebrews 3:14, KJV)
Many people have a common
tendency in life. When they acquire something new, they are deeply attached to
it and take great care of it. However, over time, their interest wanes, and
they begin to neglect it. In Tamil, there is a saying: "Like bathing a new
cow." This means that when someone buys a new cow, they bathe it and care
for it meticulously in the beginning. But after some time, they stop paying
much attention to it.
Similarly, many people make
resolutions at the start of a new year to abandon certain bad habits. However,
they often fail to sustain their efforts even for a month. Their intentions may
be good, but without perseverance, they yield no fruit.
This is also true in the
spiritual lives of many. The zeal and actions they show when they first come to
know God gradually diminish over time. Not only that, but the faith they had in
the beginning also fades away. If this happens, we risk losing our share in
Christ. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in today’s meditation
verse: "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning
of our confidence steadfast unto the end." (Hebrews 3:14, KJV)
God does not desire that our
love for Him should grow cold. This is why, in the book of Revelation, God says
to the church of Ephesus: "Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee,
because thou hast left thy first love." (Revelation 2:4, KJV)
When we grow weary in our
spiritual lives, it reflects a decline in our love for God. This not only
weakens our spiritual walk but also leads to a fall. This is why it is further
written: "Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent,
and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove
thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." (Revelation 2:5,
KJV)
Yes, beloved, our spiritual
life should not be like bathing a new cow, where the initial enthusiasm fades.
Instead, we must maintain the same intensity and commitment throughout. Only
then can we overcome the trials and sins of this world.
Therefore, let us examine
ourselves. Do we still have the same love for Christ that we had when we first
knew Him? If not, let us correct ourselves and strive to continue the works we
did at the beginning. "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we
hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end." (Hebrews
3:14, KJV)
Gospel Message: Bro. M. Geo Prakash
📞
Contact: 96889 33712
🌐
Website: aathavanmonthly.blogspot.com
Scripture Meditation - No. 1,483
AATHAVAN💚
February 28, 2025 💚
Friday
"And to Jesus the
mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh
better things than that of Abel." (Hebrews 12:24,
KJV)
We are the people of the new
covenant, established by the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. Through His blood,
Jesus Christ has obtained the authority to intercede for us before God the
Father. He is the mediator between God and us, as today’s meditation verse
declares: "Jesus the mediator of the new covenant."
Furthermore, this verse tells
us that the blood of Christ speaks better things than the blood of Abel. Abel’s
blood cried out to God for vengeance against his brother who murdered him. But
the blood of Jesus Christ pleads for us before God, cleansing us from our sins
and sanctifying us. As it is written: "Wherefore Jesus also, that
he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the
gate." (Hebrews 13:12, KJV).
Yes, "the blood
of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." (1 John 1:7,
KJV). That is, the blood of Christ is the blood that purifies us.
The shedding of Abel’s blood
was caused by jealousy between brothers. But the blood of Christ was shed out
of His love for us. Through the shed blood of Jesus, we are brought near to Him
in brotherly love and unity.
Abel’s blood was earthly and
returned to the dust. But the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ has opened a new
and living way for us. As it is written: "Having therefore,
brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new
and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to
say, his flesh." (Hebrews 10:19-20, KJV).
Abel’s blood was merely the
blood of a man shed in vain. But the blood of Christ is far greater, offering
eternal redemption to all. "Neither by the blood of goats and
calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having
obtained eternal redemption for us." (Hebrews 9:12, KJV).
Yes, beloved, we have come to
the blood of Jesus Christ, which speaks better things than the blood of Abel.
Therefore, we live in faith. Forgiveness of sins, eternal salvation, and the
opportunity to draw near to God—all these are made possible for us through the
blood of Christ. Let us not despise the blood of Christ but allow it to cleanse
and sanctify us. Let us surrender ourselves to Him.
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