“Within
the Seeds”
🌳
Scripture Meditation No. 1729
AATHAVAN — Saturday, November 1, 2025
“Do not work for the food
that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of
Man will give you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.” (John
6:27, NASB)
In this world, we labour to
meet our daily needs and to secure a good future for our children. God indeed
desires that we live diligently and responsibly. He does not approve of
laziness. As the Apostle Paul said, “If anyone is not willing to work, then he
is not to eat, either.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10, NASB)
However, God does not want
us to toil only for worldly necessities. Beyond this earthly life lies eternal
life — a life that never ends. Just as we store up for our earthly needs, we
must also store up treasures for eternal life while we live in this world. This
is what Jesus Christ emphasizes in today’s meditation verse:
“Work for the food that
endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” (John 6:27,
NASB)
The food that endures to
eternal life is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ Himself. His words are
the true and living food. When we gather His words into our hearts and live by
them, we labour for the food that endures to eternal life. Hence, Jesus said, “Truly,
truly, I say to you, if anyone follows My word, he will never see death.” (John
8:51, NASB)
To receive this food of
eternal life, we must believe in Him. Yes, “This is the work of God, that you
believe in Him whom He has sent.” (John 6:29, NASB)
The Word — Jesus Christ —
remains forever, and so do His words. As the Apostle Peter reminds us,
“But the word of the Lord
endures forever.” And this is the word which was preached to you as good news. (1
Peter 1:25, NASB)
Therefore, beloved, we must
not strive only for the things of this perishing world, but also for the food
that leads to everlasting life. It is through this imperishable Word of God
that we are born again. That spiritual rebirth makes us worthy of eternal life.
As Peter again teaches,
“For you have been born
again not of seed which is perishable, but imperishable, that is, through the
living and enduring word of God.”
(1 Peter 1:23, NASB)
Finally, today’s verse
concludes, “For on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.” (John 6:27, NASB)
Yes, beloved, this is the
very purpose for which God the Father sent Jesus Christ into the world. When we
believe in the Word — Jesus Christ — we are submitting to the will of the
Father and are made worthy of eternal life.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
Bible Meditation No. 1730
AATHAVAN – Sunday, 02 November 2025
“Yet I planted you as a
choice vine, a completely faithful seed. How then have you turned yourself
before Me into the degenerate shoots of a foreign vine?” (Jeremiah 2:21
NASB)
We do many things in life
out of faith. When we plant and care for a mango or coconut tree in our home,
it is because we expect it to grow and bear good fruit. In the same way, God
brought the people of Israel out of Egypt with an expectation — to plant them
in the land of Canaan.
We read,
“You removed a vine from
Egypt; You drove out the nations and planted it. You cleared the ground before
it, and it took deep root and filled the land.”
(Psalm 80:8–9 NASB)
The Bible refers to the
people of Israel as God’s vine: “For the vineyard of the Lord of armies is the
house of Israel, and the people of Judah are His delightful plant.” (Isaiah
5:7 NASB)
Yet this vine, which God
Himself had planted, disappointed Him. It did not produce the fruit He
expected. As the prophet Isaiah sang,
“Let me sing now for my
beloved a song of my beloved about His vineyard:
My beloved had a vineyard on a fertile hill. He dug it all around, cleared it
of stones, and planted it with the choicest vine. And He built a tower in the
middle of it, and also carved out a wine vat in it; Then He expected it to
produce good grapes, But it produced only worthless ones.” (Isaiah 5:1–2
NASB)
Even though the vineyard was
fenced, cleared of stones, and carefully tended, it failed to bear good fruit.
The reason? It did not remain true to its nature as a cultivated vine but took
on the wild nature of an uncultivated one.
Dearly beloved, today we
are the spiritual Israel. Our Lord Jesus Christ has redeemed us from the
bondage of sin — our spiritual Egypt — and desires to lead us toward the
heavenly Canaan. Let us not become like the wild vine that disappointed the
Gardener’s expectations. We must remain united with Him always.
“Remain in Me, and I in you.
Just as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it remains in the vine,
so neither can you unless you remain in Me.”
(John 15:4 NASB)
Let us not allow the Lord to
ask us, “How have you turned into the degenerate shoots of a foreign vine?”
Instead, may we abide in Him and bear abundant fruit. Then the Father will be
glorified through us, and we will truly be His disciples.
“My Father is glorified by
this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” (John 15:8
NASB)
“Within the Seeds” 🌳
Bible Meditation No. 1731
AATHAVAN – Monday, 03 November 2025
“Blessed be the Lord, my
rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle.” — Psalm 144:1
(NASB)
In this world, we are
destined to live a life of continual struggle. Whether in worldly matters or
spiritual life, we face battles. The Apostle Paul explains this clearly:
“For our struggle is not
against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against
the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness
in the heavenly places.” — Ephesians 6:12 (NASB)
To overcome these battles,
we must rely on the strength that comes from God. He has provided us with all
the spiritual armour we need for victory.
“Therefore, take up the full
armour of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having
done everything, to stand firm.” — Ephesians 6:13 (NASB)
Paul further explains the
components of this divine armour in Ephesians 6:14–17. Read and
understand these verses carefully.
When we are united with God,
He Himself will train our hands and fingers for battle, as David says in
today’s key verse. That means God will equip and strengthen us to triumph in
every conflict we face.
David goes on to say,
“My lovingkindness and my
fortress, My stronghold and my saviour, My shield and He in whom I take refuge,
Who subdues my people under me.” — Psalm 144:2 (NASB)
In this verse, David
ascribes many titles to God — acknowledging His lovingkindness, protection, and
power. Because God possesses such attributes, David declares that the Lord
trains his hands for war and prepares him for victory.
However, the battles we face
as Christians are unlike the battles fought by the world. Ours are spiritual
battles — fought depending upon the grace of God. As believers of the New
Covenant, it is essential that we rely wholly on His grace.
For we cannot overcome the
world’s enemies or spiritual forces through our own effort or strength. Only
when we acknowledge our weakness before God and lean upon His grace can we
truly be victorious.
Did not the Lord tell Paul,
“My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness”? — 2
Corinthians 12:9 (NASB)
To this Paul responded,
“Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the
power of Christ may dwell in me.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NASB)
Likewise, when we face
struggles in our daily lives, let us recognize our weaknesses and depend fully
on the grace of God. Then we too can proclaim with David: “Blessed be the Lord,
my rock, Who trains my hands for war,
And my fingers for battle.” — Psalm 144:1 (NASB)
For the gracious hand of God
will be with us — granting us strength and victory in every battle of life.
“Within the Seeds” 🌳
Bible Meditation No. 1732
AATHAVAN – Tuesday, November 4, 2025
“And to whom did He swear
that they would not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? So we
see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief.” — Hebrews 3:18–19
(NASB)
If we are to inherit the
eternal life that God has promised, it is essential that we remain steadfast in
faith toward Him and demonstrate that faith through our actions. Merely
worshiping God, receiving His blessings, and experiencing His miracles are not
sufficient to make us worthy of eternal life. God desires that we understand
this truth through today’s Scripture portion.
When Moses led the
Israelites out of Egypt, the first census recorded 6,03,550 men who were able
to go to war (Numbers 1:46). These were strong men above the age of twenty.
Before their very eyes, God performed many signs and wonders through Moses.
They witnessed the mighty works of the Lord and heard His voice speaking to
Moses.
Later, Moses sent
representatives from the tribes of Israel to explore the land of Canaan, which
God had promised them. They went and spied out the land for forty days and
returned. Of those who went, only Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua
the son of Nun brought back a report of faith and encouragement to Moses
and the people. But the others said:
“And they brought up an evil
report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying,
The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the
inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great
stature. There also we saw the Nephilim (the sons of Anak are part of the
Nephilim); and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in
their sight.” — Numbers 13:32, 33 (NASB). Because of this
unbelief, God said in His anger: “Certainly all the people who have seen My
glory and My signs which I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness, yet have
put Me to the test these ten times and have not listened to My voice, shall by
no means see the land which I swore to their fathers; nor shall any of those
who were disrespectful to Me see it.” — Numbers 14:22–23 (NASB)
And again,
“You certainly shall not
come into the land where I swore to settle you, except Caleb the son of
Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun.”
— Numbers 14:30 (NASB)
When Moses later took a
second census, the number of people was 601,730 (Numbers 26:51). These were
those who had been under twenty years of age during the first count or were
born afterward.
“But among these there was
not a single man from those who were counted by Moses and Aaron the priest, who
had counted the sons of Israel in the wilderness of Sinai. For the Lord had
said to them, ‘They shall certainly die in the wilderness.’ So not a man of
them was left except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun.” — Numbers
26:64–65 (NASB)
The writer of Hebrews
reminds us of this same truth in today’s meditation verse. Just as the
unbelieving Israelites were unable to enter Canaan because of their
disobedience, so also, if we are not fully faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ —
if we do not demonstrate our faith through obedience and deeds — but merely
remain as spectators of miracles, worship services, and testimonies, we too
will fail to enter into eternal life.
In those days, the only two
who stood firm in faith were Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son
of Jephunneh.
“But Joshua the son of Nun
and Caleb the son of Jephunneh remained alive out of those men who went to spy
out the land.” — Numbers 14:38 (NASB) They alone inherited the land of
Canaan. Even today, they stand as enduring examples of unwavering faith before
us.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
Scripture Meditation No. 1733
AATHAVAN – 05.11.2025, Wednesday
“Make sure that your
character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for
He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you.’”
(Hebrews 13:5, NASB)
As we have often seen in
previous meditations, earning money and loving money are two
entirely different things. It is not wrong to earn money, but it is wrong to
become a lover of money. The love of money provokes within man a craving to
imitate others who are wealthy and pushes him toward wrong and deceitful ways
to accumulate riches.
That is why today’s verse
instructs us: “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money,
being content with what you have.” This means we must work hard and earn
our living, yet even if we do not attain abundant material blessings, we should
live with a heart that says, “What I have is sufficient,” without comparing
ourselves with others.
The verse further continues:
“For He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon
you.’” When we live with a contented heart, the Lord promises never to
forsake us. He honours the attitude of our heart and will never let us be put
to shame. The writer of Hebrews goes on to declare:
“So that we confidently say,
‘The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?’” (Hebrews
13:6, NASB)
Our Lord Jesus Christ also
said:
“But seek first His kingdom
and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” (Matthew
6:33, NASB)
That is, when we seek the
things of God first, He will provide all our other earthly needs. Therefore,
today’s meditation verse reminds us again of His promise: “I will never
desert you, nor will I ever abandon you.”
When we reject the love of
money and seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness, He will surely be with us and
never depart from us. Yet, many people live in the opposite way — they first
pursue money and material gain, and in doing so, drift away from God. Only when
the troubles of the world press upon them do they run back to Him.
If we develop a contented
heart that says, “Be content with what you have,” we will surely
experience the fulfilment of His promise, “I will never desert you, nor will
I ever abandon you.” Yes, it is only when we live out every Word of God
that we realize the truth and power of His promises.
Let us live out the Word—then
He will never leave us but remain with us, meeting all our needs.
“Within the Seeds” 🌳
Bible Meditation No. 1734
AATHAVAN – Thursday, 06.11.2025
“I will bear the indignation of the LORD
Because I have sinned against Him,
Until He pleads my case and executes justice for me.
He will bring me out to the light,
And I will see His righteousness.”
— Micah 7:9 (NASB)
It is our sins that separate
us from God. Yet many of us lack a true sense of sin. When the awareness of sin
dawns within us, faith also arises — the faith that God will listen to us,
deliver us from our afflictions, and restore us. Because such conviction and
faith were within him, the prophet Micah confidently declares in today’s verse:
“He will bring me out to the
light, and I will see His righteousness.”
Sometimes, when others see
our downfall, they may mock us or speak ill of us behind our backs. Micah faced
such a situation too. To them he replied:
“But as for me, I will be on the watch for the LORD;
I will wait for the God of my salvation.
My God will hear me.
Do not rejoice over me, enemy of mine;
Though I fall I will rise;
Though I dwell in darkness,
The LORD is a light for me.”
— Micah 7:7–8 (NASB)
Yes, beloved, perhaps our
present lowly state is the result of our sins. Therefore, we must confess them
to Him and patiently wait until He acts on our behalf. Micah said:
“I have sinned against the
LORD; I will bear His indignation until He pleads my case and executes justice
for me.”
He did not stop there but
went on to reaffirm his faith:
“Do not rejoice over me,
enemy of mine; though I fall I will rise; though I dwell in darkness, the LORD
is a light for me; I will see His righteousness.”
Human life can be viewed in
two parts:
- The first — the dark phase, lived
without knowing Christ.
- The second — the bright phase, which
begins after coming to know the Lord Jesus Christ.
Sadly, most people live and
end their lives in the first, dark phase. Worse still, they mock those who live
in the light. Jesus Himself acknowledged this reality, saying:
“For the sons of this age
are shrewder in relation to their own kind than the sons of light.” — Luke
16:8 (NASB)
It is better to be
simple-minded and inherit eternal life than to be worldly-wise and end up in
eternal fire. That is true wisdom. Therefore, like Micah, let us say,
“I have sinned against the
LORD,” confessing our sins and seeking His forgiveness. Let us not be moved by
people’s criticism, but live truthfully and steadfastly before God, confessing
our sins to Him.
When we live sincerely in
this way, as today’s meditation verse promises —
He will bring us into the light, and we will see His
righteousness.
“Within the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1735
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Friday, 07.11.2025
“See how great a love the
Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we
are. For this reason, the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.”
— 1 John 3:1 (NASB)
Jesus Christ revealed to us
that God is our loving Father. Isn’t that the greatest privilege of all? We are
the children of the Almighty—the Creator and Ruler of the entire universe. Yet,
today’s verse reminds us that the world does not know us because it does not
know Him.
While meditating on this
truth, I was reminded of a news story published in 2023.
Savji Dholakia, the owner of
Hare Krishna Diamond Exports in Surat, is a billionaire with an estimated net
worth of ₹6,000 crores. To teach his 21-year-old son, Dravya, the value of
struggle, he sent him to Kochi with only ₹7,000 and instructed him to
survive by working odd jobs—without using his father’s name or influence.
At that time, Dravya was
pursuing his MBA in the United States. During his vacation in India, his father
gave him this one-month challenge. The son accepted it willingly.
The father’s conditions were
clear:
1️⃣ He should never use his
father’s name or connections under any circumstance.
2️⃣ He should not stay in one
job for more than a week.
3️⃣ The ₹7,000 given should be
used only for emergencies—not for daily expenses.
Dravya first worked at a
bakery in Cheranalloor, then at a call centre, a grocery store, and even at
McDonald’s. After one month, he had earned only ₹4,000. There were days when he
couldn’t even afford ₹40 for food. Some nights he went hungry. At times, he had
to spend ₹250 for temporary lodging and even slept on shopfront verandas.
Later, he said those days were the hardest of his life.
But his father’s wise
decision taught him a life-changing lesson—helping him to understand the harsh
realities of life and the true worth of hard work, apart from wealth and
comfort.
When the rich man’s son,
Dravya, walked through the streets of Kochi, sleeping in shopfronts, no one
around him knew that he was the son of a billionaire. Yet he knew who his
father was. He also knew that these struggles were temporary, meant to
prepare him for future responsibility as a capable leader in his father’s
business.
Yes, beloved friends—when we
truly come to know God, we realize that we are children of the Master of
the universe. Our loving Father uses this earthly life as a training ground
for eternal life in heaven. Then we can understand how great a love the
Father has bestowed upon us by calling us His children.
The world does not know the
Father, so it cannot understand these truths, nor can it experience His love.
Because it does not know Him, it does not recognize us either. Therefore, as
those who know the Father, let us remain steadfast in His love.
Just as the rich man’s son
endured hardship with confidence in his father, let us also endure life’s
challenges with hope, trusting in the unfailing love of our Heavenly Father.
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1736
🔆 AATHAVAN
– Saturday, 08 November 2025
“But each one must examine
his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting, but to himself alone,
and not to another. For each one will bear his own load.” — Galatians 6:4–5
(NASB)
The tendency to compare
oneself with others is quite natural to human beings. In every aspect of life,
people have grown accustomed to measuring themselves against others. From
childhood, students strive to score higher marks than their classmates, to win
more prizes in sports and competitions, and to be seen as more successful.
As they grow older, this
habit of comparison takes a different form — it becomes a desire to have more
wealth, comfort, position, or power than one’s relatives or those around them.
When they find themselves lacking in something that others possess, their
hearts grow troubled.
However, the Apostle Paul
warns us that such comparison should not exist in our spiritual life.
Instead, he urges us to engage in self-examination — to see whether our
conduct truly reflects the kind of spiritual life that pleases God. That is why
he says,
“Each one must examine his
own work, and then he will have reason for boasting, but to himself alone, and
not to another.”
Yes, we must honestly
evaluate ourselves — to know how far we have advanced in our spiritual walk,
how deep our communion with God has grown, and how steadfast our faith life has
become. When we do this, we will not look to others for comparison, but will
instead find joy in recognizing our own spiritual progress before God.
Paul further adds the reason
for this instruction:
“For each one will bear his
own load.”
This means that we alone
must face the consequences of our own deeds — whether good or bad — and not
anyone else. Hence, it is essential that we look within ourselves rather than
measuring against others.
Even today, there are some
who pray for the souls of the departed, believing — contrary to Scripture —
that God will forgive their sins and grant them bliss in the afterlife through
such prayers. But the Apostle Paul clearly states,
“For the one who does wrong
will receive the consequences of the wrong which he has done, and that without
partiality.” — Colossians 3:25 (NASB)
Moreover, the Book of Revelation declares,
“And I saw the dead, the
great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and
another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged
from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds.” —
Revelation 20:12 (NASB)
Dear beloved, indeed each
one will bear his own load. Therefore, today’s meditation calls us to examine
our own work. Rather than comparing ourselves with others, we must evaluate
our actions before God — to see whether we stand right in His sight — and
correct ourselves wherever needed.
Let us pause to reflect upon
our lives and make them pleasing unto God.
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1737
🔆 AATHAVAN
– Sunday, 09.11.2025
“And do not be conformed to
this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may
prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”
— Romans 12:2 (NASB)
In our daily life, we often
see people who act according to the situation. Many live such pretentious
lives. The reason behind this acting is usually self-interest — to gain profit
or favour. Some behave well not out of true goodness, but to show others that
they are righteous and earn a good name.
There are also many who do
certain things simply because “everyone else is doing it.” Even if they dislike
it inwardly, they conform outwardly just to blend in with the world. But
today’s meditation verse warns us: “Do not be conformed to this world.”
Our Lord Jesus Christ also
instructs us not to pretend or deceive, saying,
“But make sure your
statement is, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil origin.”
— Matthew 5:37 (NASB)
King David, who encountered
such people in his life, said,
“Surely every person walks
around as a phantom; surely they make an uproar for nothing; he amasses riches
and does not know who will gather them.”— Psalm 39:6 (NASB)
David refers here to those
who act as though they are good merely to accumulate wealth and possessions.
Even today, many put on a false front and pile up treasures for themselves.
But Apostle Paul instructs
us differently — to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, so that we may
discern “what the will of God is — that which is good and acceptable and
perfect.” God has a specific plan and will for each of us. Instead of
following the pattern of the world, we must discern His will and live
accordingly.
To know God’s perfect will
concerning our life, our mind must be renewed. For this renewal, the old sinful
nature must die. This is the experience of salvation. When we confess our sins
to God and seek His forgiveness, we are born again as His children. In that
moment, the tendency to wear masks and act deceitfully departs from us. Only
when our mind is renewed and transformed can we become worthy of the Kingdom of
God.
Did not Jesus say, “Truly,
truly, I say to you, unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of
God.” — John 3:3 (NASB)
Therefore, let us not change
our outward appearance or behaviour according to time, place, or people.
Instead, let us yield ourselves to God — to be renewed in our mind, transformed
in our inner being, and to discern His perfect will.
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1738
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Monday, 10 November 2025
“And just as they did not
see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a depraved mind, to do those
things that are not proper.” — Romans 1:28 (NASB)
Knowing about God and
knowing God are not the same. Throughout the Bible, we often see expressions
such as “knowing God” or “the knowledge of God.”
A person may study in a
Bible college, listen to numerous spiritual sermons, and read spiritual
messages and books to gain knowledge about God. Yet, even with all this, one
may still not truly know God.
Many today who have
intellectual knowledge of the Bible have become preachers, teachers, or
scholars — but their understanding is often limited to the level of the mind.
If we study the life of
Jesus Christ merely as we would study the life stories of Buddha, Gandhi, Karl
Marx, Lenin, or any famous leader, we may know about Christ — but we
will not truly know Him.
Knowing God is a divine
experience. It means living daily in union and fellowship with Him — walking
with God as we live with our parents and siblings at home. It is to know His
will, to follow His guidance, and to experience His leading in our lives.
Yes, our God is not lifeless
— He is alive even today! He acts and speaks just as a living person does. To
recognize and live in that reality is what it truly means to know God.
But as today’s verse says,
because people did not desire to retain the knowledge of God, He gave them over
to a depraved mind, so that they would do what is not proper. (Romans 1:28
NASB)
When people fail to know God
personally, the Apostle Paul describes how their minds become corrupted with
every kind of unrighteousness:
“...filled with all
unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit,
malice; they are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant,
boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, without understanding,
untrustworthy, unloving, unmerciful.”
— Romans 1:29–31 (NASB)
No matter how many worship
services we attend, unless we truly know God, these sinful characteristics will
continue to remain in us.
Dearly beloved, many of us
who read this may have been born into Christian families. Yet, we may only know
about God — not truly know God. But there is a higher experience — the
experience of personally knowing Him.
If we sincerely desire this
experience, God is eager to give it to us. That is why He came into this world
— so that we might know Him personally and be transformed into His likeness.
When we truly know Him, our
inner nature will change and become pleasing to God.
Let us therefore pray with a
genuine heart:
“Loving Lord, I desire to
know You in my life and to live in fellowship with You. I confess all my sins
that stand as obstacles between You and me. Please accept me as Your
son/daughter.”
God will reveal Himself to
us — and make us a new creation.
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1739
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Tuesday, 11 November 2025
“Look to Abraham your
father, and to Sarah who gave birth to you in pain; When he was only one I
called him, Then I blessed him and multiplied him.” — Isaiah 51:2 (NASB)
Today’s meditation verse
instructs us to look to Abraham and Sarah. It not only tells us to merely look
at them but also urges us to take their life of faith as our model and live
accordingly. Through such a life of faith, we too are encouraged to receive
blessings just as they received them.
We have often read in Scripture about the faith of
Abraham. It is written:
“Yet, with respect to the
promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving
glory to God, and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able
also to perform.” — Romans 4:20–21 (NASB)
Abraham proved his faith in
two great moments of his life.
First, when God promised him
a son, Abraham was around seventy-five years old. Though childless, he believed
God’s promise that He would give him a son.
“Without becoming weak in
faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a
hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb.” — Romans 4:19 (NASB)
Just as he believed, the
promise was fulfilled when he was one hundred years old, and Isaac was born.
Yes, beloved, for
twenty-five long years Abraham waited in faith for God’s promise to come true.
During those years, many may have mocked him—calling him a foolish old man for
still believing in a promise. Yet Abraham did not doubt. He was “fully assured
that what God had promised, He was able also to perform,” and thus he glorified
God through steadfast faith.
Second, Abraham demonstrated
his faith when God asked him to offer his only son Isaac as a burnt offering.
Listening to God’s voice, Abraham was ready to sacrifice his son. He did not
even tell Sarah, knowing that she would never agree and might stop him. This
silence itself reflected the depth of his faith in God.
“It was he to whom it was
said, ‘Through Isaac your descendants shall be named.’ He considered that God
is able to raise people even from the dead, from which he also received him
back as a type.” — Hebrews 11:18–19 (NASB)
Earlier, God had promised
Abraham, “I will greatly multiply your descendants as the stars of the heavens
and as the sand which is on the seashore.” And He also said, “Through Isaac
your descendants shall be named” (Genesis 21:12, NASB).
Therefore, Abraham believed
that the same God who gave the promise was powerful enough to fulfil it—even if
it meant raising Isaac from the dead. That faith made him ready to offer Isaac
as a sacrifice.
Today’s verse urges us to
reflect deeply on these things. This is why Abraham is called the father of
faith. When we face negative circumstances or when our prayers seem
unanswered, we often grow anxious or fall into doubt. But in such moments, let
us look to Abraham.
“By faith even Sarah herself
received ability to conceive, even beyond the proper time of life, since she
considered Him faithful who had promised. Therefore, even from one man, and one
who was as good as dead at that, there were born descendants as many as the
stars of heaven in number, and innumerable as the sand which is by the
seashore.” — Hebrews 11:11–12 (NASB)
As today’s verse reminds us,
let us look to our father Abraham and our mother Sarah, and be
strengthened in our faith in God.
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1740
🔆 AATHAVAN
– Wednesday, 12 November 2025
“If Christ is in you, though
the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of
righteousness.” (Romans 8:10, NASB)
Today’s meditation verse
gives us a clear measure of what it means for Christ to dwell in us. Merely
calling ourselves Christians by name or attending church services has no
meaning unless Christ truly lives in us. If we are genuine Christians, Christ
must have come to dwell within us. When Christ comes into us, we die to sin
along with Him. This is the essence of the Christian life — a higher way that
no other religion shows.
When a person dies, none of
his bodily organs function. Likewise, if we are dead to sin, we can no longer
use our bodies to commit sin. When Christ dwells in us, we die to sin. That is
why the Apostle Paul says,
“For the one who has died is
freed from sin.” (Romans 6:7, NASB)
This is what we read again in today’s verse:
“If Christ is in you, though
the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of
righteousness.” (Romans 8:10, NASB)
Moreover, the law of the
Spirit of life in Christ Jesus frees us from sin and from the eternal death
that follows it. As Paul declares,
“For the law of the Spirit
of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.” (Romans
8:2, NASB)
Yes, beloved, this is
precisely why God the Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, into this world. On
the cross, He offered Himself as a sacrifice, and by His flesh, He dealt with
our sin once for all. As it is written:
“For what the Law could not
do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the
likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the
flesh.” (Romans 8:3, NASB)
Today, many people resolve
at the beginning of a new year to give up some sinful habit. But most of them
fail to keep their resolution beyond a few days. Why? Because no human being
can overcome sin by his own strength. Only Christ living within us can deliver
us from sin. Human effort alone can never bring victory over sin.
That is why Paul confesses,
“For I know that good does
not dwell in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but
the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I
practice the very evil that I do not want.”
(Romans 7:18–19, NASB)
Yes, it is not by our own
efforts but by Christ alone that we are set free. The Lord Jesus Himself said,
“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36, NASB)
Let us therefore surrender
ourselves to Him. When Christ comes to dwell in us, as today’s verse declares, “though
the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of
righteousness.”
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1741
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Thursday, 13 November 2025
“They will say of Me, ‘Only
in the Lord are righteousness and strength.’ People will come to Him, And all
who were angry at Him will be put to shame.” — Isaiah 45:24 (NASB)
Today, although many people
follow different religions, most of them do not do so through personal
knowledge or spiritual experience. Instead, they believe in and worship God
merely in the way their parents taught them.
As a result, many have no
real spiritual experience or divine awareness. Out of rigid tradition and the
faith instilled in childhood, people continue to worship without truly knowing
God. But it is essential that we know and experience Him
personally. We must grow in the wisdom that leads us to truly know God.
But many do not accept Him. Those who have realized
Christ as the true God accept Him and follow Him with devotion.
There is a great difference
between worshiping God with understanding and worshiping Him without it. The
Samaritan woman whom Jesus met was one who worshiped without true
understanding. Therefore, Jesus said to her,
“You worship what you do not
know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.” — John 4:22
(NASB)
Today’s verse further
declares:
“All who were angry at Him
will be put to shame.”
Yes, beloved, even today we
hear many testimonies about this truth. Those who once burned Bible with anger
against Christ and worked against Him have later been touched by His love and
have come to Him, boldly testifying of their transformation. From Sadhu
Sundar Singh to this day, many have said, “Once, I could not bear to see
the Bible; I even burned it in anger — and now I am ashamed of what I did.”
In the past, nations like
Russia and China were like iron fortresses where Christianity could not enter.
Yet today, these same countries have begun to allow the Bible within their
borders. Even in some Arab nations, many are embracing Christianity — with some
Muslims testifying that Christ revealed Himself to them through dreams.
Indeed, beloved, as today’s
verse declares, “Only in the Lord are righteousness and strength.” Those
who once opposed Him have come to realize this truth. The verse also reminds us
that “all who were angry at Him will be put to shame.” God gives every
person an opportunity to know the truth. Those who reject it stubbornly will
one day stand ashamed before Him.
It is not enough for us to
merely bear the name “Christian.” Unless we truly know the Lord — recognizing
that in Him alone are righteousness and strength — we too may stand
ashamed on the final day. Only when we know Him and live in His truth will we
be among the sheep of His fold.
Jesus said: “I have other
sheep, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will listen
to My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd.” — John 10:16
(NASB)
Those who live without
recognizing His righteousness and power are the sheep outside the fold — yet
even they, Jesus says, will one day hear His voice.
Today’s meditation verse
confirms the same truth in Jesus’ words:
“They will say of Me, ‘Only
in the Lord are righteousness and strength.’ People will come to Him.”
Let us therefore examine
ourselves and see where we stand. For if we do not come to the Lord and belong
to His fold, we too shall be put to shame on the final day.
Inside the Seeds 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1742
🔆 AATHAVAN
— Friday, 14 November 2025
“Since the Lord your God
walks in the midst of your camp to save you and to defeat your enemies before
you, therefore your camp must be holy; and He must not see anything indecent
among you or He will turn away from you.” — Deuteronomy 23:14 (NASB)
When the Israelites were led
by Moses from Egypt toward Canaan, they journeyed for forty years. According to
the Lord’s word, they stayed in one place for several days, and when He
commanded, they set out again. During all those years, the Lord Himself walked
with them, guiding and protecting them.
The camp referred to
the area where the Israelites pitched their tents and lived. The Lord God moved
among them within that camp as their divine protector. Moses firmly believed
that God’s protection should never depart from Israel. Since the Lord is holy,
any form of impurity or uncleanness would cause Him to withdraw His presence.
Hence, God instructed Israel:
“Therefore, your camp must
be holy; and He must not see anything indecent among you or He will turn away
from you.”
Beloved, if we desire the
same divine protection that the Israelites enjoyed, we too must live holy lives
as spiritual Israelites. The Lord said,
“For I am the Lord who
brought you up from the land of Egypt to be your God; thus you shall be holy,
for I am holy.” — Leviticus 11:45 (NASB)
The Apostle Peter reminds us
of this same truth: “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” — 1 Peter 1:16
(NASB)
And the author of Hebrews further exhorts us:
“Pursue peace with all
people, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” — Hebrews
12:14 (NASB)
In today’s meditation verse, we again read:
“Therefore, your camp must
be holy; and He must not see anything indecent among you or He will turn away
from you.”
Our heart — the dwelling
place of God — is like that camp. It must remain pure and undefiled. If
impurity is found within, the Lord will turn away. To behold God in our lives
and to grow in our relationship with Him, our hearts must be kept clean and
holy.
That is why our Lord Jesus
Christ said: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” — Matthew
5:8 (NASB)
The thoughts of our heart
are revealed through our words. As Jesus also said,
“The things that come out of
the mouth come from the heart, and those things defile the person. For out of
the heart come evil thoughts, murders, acts of adultery, other immoral sexual
acts, thefts, false testimonies, and slanderous statements. These are the
things that defile the person.” — Matthew 15:18–20 (NASB)
Our Lord God desires to walk
within the camp of our heart to save us. Therefore, our inner life must
be kept holy, so that He may not see anything unclean among us and depart from
us.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1743
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Saturday, 15.11.2025
“But the wicked are like the tossing sea,
For it cannot be quiet,
And its waters toss up refuse and mud.
‘There is no peace,’ says my God, ‘for the wicked.’”
(Isaiah 57:20–21, NASB)
One of the key differences
between a pond and the sea lies in the nature of their waters. A pond remains
calm and still. But the sea is never quiet—day and night it keeps roaring
restlessly. In the same way, the heart of the wicked is always in turmoil. There
is no peace in the heart of the wicked.
Whatever is thrown into the
pond, it silently receives and remains still. But the sea, unable to rest,
constantly throws refuse and dirt onto the shore. This is yet another
distinction between the wicked and others.
The wicked are ever ready to
engage in sinful acts for money or material gain. After accumulating wealth
through unrighteous means, the wicked man walks proudly. Indeed, “For the
wicked boasts of his soul’s desire, and the greedy person curses and shows disrespect
to the LORD.” (Psalm 10:3, NASB)
Beloved, if we read the
daily news today, we can clearly understand how greatly wickedness has
increased in our nation. Not only men, but women too have begun to match men in
acts of wickedness. The increase of wicked people is one of the signs of the last
days. The Apostle Jude reminds us of this: “They were saying to you, ‘In the
last time there will be mockers, following after their own ungodly lusts.” (Jude
1:18, NASB)
Today, one major reason for
the rise in suicides is the wicked nature of people. Like the restless sea that
casts mud and dirt on the shore, the wicked man, whose life reveals only
impurity, ultimately ends his life. Yes, there is no peace for them. Yet God
does not hate the wicked person—He hates the wickedness in him. That is why God
says, “Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked,” declares the Lord
GOD, “rather than that he would turn from his ways and live?” (Ezekiel 18:23,
NASB)
Though the life of the
wicked may be like the sea that casts refuse upon the shore… though he has no
peace… God is still ready to forgive and embrace him. God desires to give him
peace. “Let the wicked abandon his way, and the unrighteous person his thoughts;
and let him return to the LORD, and He will have compassion on him, and to our
God, for He will abundantly pardon.” (Isaiah 55:7, NASB)
Yes, beloved, God is willing
to forgive even the one who has lived the most wicked life. None of us are such
great offenders. Therefore, without fear, let us confess our sins before God
and seek His forgiveness. His compassion to forgive is abundant, and He will
fill us with His peace.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
Bible Meditation No. 1744
AATHAVAN — 16.11.2025, Sunday
“But thanks be to God, who
always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma
of the knowledge of Him in every place.” — 2 Corinthians 2:14, NASB
Today’s meditation verse
explains what God does in us and through us for others when we live a
spiritually enriched life in Him.
When we live a life that is
excellent in the Spirit—whether it concerns worldly matters or spiritual
ones—God’s hand will always be with us. Therefore:
1. He Always Leads Us in Triumph
When His hand is upon us, He causes us to triumph at all
times.
2. He Makes Our Life a Testimony
Because God is with us, we
can live a life filled with testimony. The Scripture calls this testimony “the
sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him.”
Wherever we go, God will reveal this fragrance of Christ through us to others.
In other words, Christ is glorified through our testimony-filled life.
But not everyone can
perceive this fragrance of Christ. Yes, dearly beloved, even when Christ lived
in this world, not everyone sensed His fragrance. That is why they crucified
Him. The fragrance of Christ cannot be sensed by those who refuse to repent. Therefore,
the Apostle Paul says:
“to the one an aroma from
death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life.” — 2 Corinthians
2:16, NASB
As Christians, we are all
called to reveal the aroma of Christ to the world. Those who do not know Christ
should experience the fragrance of the knowledge of Him through us.
Therefore, it is not enough
for Christians to merely attend worship services and leave. We must give Christ
room to enter our lives and revive us. That is why the Apostle Paul says:
“If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of
sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness.” — Romans 8:10, NASB
When we strengthen our personal relationship with Christ
and live in Him, our spirit becomes alive. Only when we possess such life
within us can we reveal the fragrance of Christ to others.
Let us not be mere “Sunday
Christians.” Let us welcome Christ into our hearts.
Then we will always be led in triumph in Christ; and everywhere we go,
God will make known through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him.
To Him alone be praise and thanksgiving.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖
Scripture Meditation No. 1745
🔆 AATHAVAN
– Monday, 17.11.2025
“Not that we are adequate in
ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is
from God.” — 2 Corinthians 3:5 (NASB)
Today, there are thousands
of industries and large manufacturing units around the world. In each of these,
thousands of people are employed. Beyond that, the governments of various
nations provide enormous job opportunities; millions work in government sectors.
Are all of these people “made adequate by God”? Are not most of them people who
do not know God? Yet everything seems to function efficiently. If so, does
today’s Scripture verse — “our adequacy is from God” — become untrue?
Beloved, whenever we read
the Word of God, we must always look for its spiritual meaning. If we try to
interpret today’s verse only from a worldly standpoint, it will appear
meaningless. This is exactly why many people today fail to understand Scripture
properly.
Today’s meditation verse
carries 100% spiritual significance. If we desire to live in a way that is
completely pleasing to God, we are not adequate in ourselves to even think
about such things. No amount of our own effort can make us holy or acceptable before
God. Unless Christ dwells in us, spiritual thoughts and spiritual actions
cannot be birthed within us.
That is why Jesus Christ said:
“I am the vine, you are the
branches; the one who remains in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for apart
from Me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5 (NASB)
Just as a branch connected
to the vine receives nourishment through the stem and bears fruit, only when we
remain connected to Christ can we bear fruit.
Remaining connected to the
Vine — that is our adequacy. If we lose that connection, we become
capable of nothing. Did not Jesus warn:
“If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown away like a branch and dries up;
and they gather them, and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.” — John
15:6 (NASB)
Yes, beloved, without being
united with Christ in our spiritual life, we cannot even imagine becoming
anything useful for God. We are not adequate in ourselves. It is God the Father
who makes us adequate. That is why the Apostle Paul boldly says, “our
adequacy is from God.”
Our Lord Jesus Christ also declared:
“Everything that the Father
gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I certainly will not cast
out.” — John 6:37 (NASB)
It is not our own effort —
it is the hand of God that sanctifies us. Let us surrender ourselves to Him.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
Scripture Meditation No. 1746
AATHAVAN — 18.11.2025, Tuesday
“This is eternal life, that
they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”
(John 17:3, NASB)
The life we live in this
world is only for a short while. But the life we will experience after this
will either be everlasting heavenly joy or eternal hellfire. Christ Jesus came
into the world to give us eternal life — that endless heavenly life. The way to
receive this eternal life is stated by Jesus Christ in today’s meditation
verse. If we desire to inherit eternal life, we must live as those who know God
the Father and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.
Today, some Christians
observe people of other religions offering garlands, incense, and similar items
before their gods, and they begin doing the same to images or statues of
Christ, thinking this is an expression of love. But if we truly love Christ, we
will detach ourselves from such practices; they will appear as meaningless
rituals. Jesus Christ said, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and
My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our dwelling with
him.” (John 14:23, NASB)
Thus, love for Christ is not
expressed through outward religious performances, but by keeping His
commandments. That is why John, the beloved disciple of Christ, wrote, “For
this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments
are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3, NASB)
Yes, beloved, obedience to
His commandments is what it means to love Him.
Even in today’s world,
certain things that happen in families help us understand this clearly. Some
children, no matter how well-settled they are, do not properly care for their
aging parents. They provide no food, no financial help, no support. Their parents
live as neglected elderly persons. But when these parents die, the same
children rush in, conduct grand funeral rites, and host elaborate memorial
meals.
They do not do these things
out of love for their parents, but only to showcase their wealth and social
status to others. How can a child claim to love their parents if they refused
to care for them while they were alive, yet perform unnecessary rituals after
their death?
Many Christians behave the
same way in their spiritual life. While their souls remain lifeless, they offer
huge donations to churches. Like children who neglect their parents when alive
but run to perform rituals after death, these people give to the church only to
display their wealth, gaining recognition and prominent positions among others.
But Jesus Christ said, “The
one who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and the one
who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will reveal
Myself to him.” (John 14:21, NASB)
Yes — for Christ to reveal
Himself to us, outward devotional acts are not the requirement; rather, we must
keep His commandments. We must confess our sins to Him and receive salvation.
Only then, with the help of the Holy Spirit, will we be able to obey His
commandments correctly. Then we will come to truly know the Father and the Son
and receive the eternal life He gives.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1747
🔆 AATHAVAN –
19.11.2025, Wednesday
“He who turns his ear away
from listening to the Law,
Even his prayer is an abomination.” — Proverbs 28:9, NASB
All Christians generally
pray. Yet many times, our prayers seem unanswered. This is not God’s fault;
most often, the issue lies within us. If we want God to hear our prayers, we
must first prepare ourselves to be worthy to be heard.
The Bible speaks in many
places about prayers that God does not listen to. First, it clearly says that
God does not hear sinners. “We know that God does not hear sinners; but if
anyone is God-fearing and does His will, He hears him.” — John 9:31, NASB
Next comes pride. God stands
against the proud; therefore He does not listen to their prayers, for He
resists them.
“But He gives a greater
grace. Therefore, it says, ‘GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT HE GIVES GRACE TO
THE HUMBLE.’” — James 4:6, NASB
Furthermore, prayer is not
merely shouting our needs at God. Unfortunately, that is what many think prayer
to be, and this becomes the reason why their prayers remain unanswered. Apostle
James says:
“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you
may spend it on your pleasures.” — James 4:3, NASB. In other words, God
does not answer prayers that are outside His will.
In this list of prayers God
rejects, today’s meditation verse adds another:
“He who turns his ear away from listening to the Law, even his prayer is an
abomination.” This is equivalent to saying, “I don’t want God, I don’t want His
word — I only want what I desire.”
Jesus Christ, the Son, is
Himself the very Word of God. We read this in the Gospel of John: “In the
beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” — John
1:1, NASB
The same Word who existed
with God in the beginning took human form and came into the world: “And the
Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the
only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” — John 1:14, NASB
These words of Christ form
the Scriptures. To ignore these words is to push Him aside. If we are unwilling
to hear His Word or obey it, how can we claim to be praying to Him? What
meaning does such prayer have? Today’s verse calls such prayer an abomination.
Many Christians today do not
give heed to the Scriptures. They give more importance to the teachings of the
denomination they belong to than to the Word of God. But when troubles and
burdens press them, they run searching for ministers who preach the Word. If
the living Word—Christ Himself—dwells in us, we will not need to run anywhere.
When we incline our ears to
the Scriptures and obey them, we will certainly experience God answering our
prayers.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1748
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Thursday, 20.11.2025
“We are afflicted in every
way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not
abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” — 2 Corinthians 4:8–9 (NASB)
In today’s meditation verse,
the Apostle Paul beautifully describes the mindset and life of those who truly
live a spiritual life in Christ.
Trials, pressures,
weariness, and discouragements cannot destroy them. Even in moments when they
feel abandoned or helpless, the assurance that God is with them
strengthens their spiritual walk and enables them to continue victoriously.
This does not mean that
those who live spiritually never become discouraged. Rather, even when they do,
God revives them with a deeper spiritual experience. They will not collapse or
destroy themselves like people of the world, because God sustains their inner
life.
Even the great prophet
Elijah became discouraged when he heard that Jezebel intended to kill him.
Scripture says:
“But he himself went a day’s
journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree; and he
asked for himself to die, and said, ‘Enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am
no better than my fathers.’ Then he lay down and fell asleep under a juniper
tree…” — 1 Kings 19:4–5 (NASB)
This is the same Elijah who
called down fire from heaven and defeated 450 prophets of Baal, proving that
the Lord alone is God. Yet this courageous man was frightened by one woman, and
prayed in deep despair, “Lord, take my life.”
But God did not allow him to die:
“Then behold, an angel
touched him and said to him, ‘Arise, eat.’”
— 1 Kings 19:5 (NASB)
God could not ignore His
servant lying down in hunger and sorrow.
Dear beloved, we too may
sometimes feel discouraged when pressures surround us. But just as God touched
Elijah and fed him, He will strengthen and revive us as well.
Paul explains why: because
spiritually, we always carry within our body the dying of Jesus.
“…always carrying around in
the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be revealed in
our body.” — 2 Corinthians 4:10 (NASB)
Therefore, beloved, let us
boldly continue our spiritual journey.
We may be:
- Afflicted,
yet not crushed
- Perplexed,
yet not despairing
- Persecuted,
yet not abandoned
- Struck
down, yet not destroyed
For the loving hand of God is always with us.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1749
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Friday, 21.11.2025
“For momentary, light
affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all
comparison.” (2 Corinthians 4:17, NASB)
All spiritual matters are to
be believed through the eyes of faith. Unlike the saints of the Old Testament,
who often walked with God through visible experiences, we now walk by believing
what we do not see. Yes, “for we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians
5:7, NASB)
It is our faith in God that
enables us to accept Him and live for Him. For the Scripture says, “Now faith
is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen.” (Hebrews
11:1, NASB)
Thus, as today’s meditation
verse declares, for those who fix their eyes not on what is seen but on what is
unseen, our momentary and light affliction is working out for us a far more
exceeding and eternal weight of glory.
We have not seen heaven. We
have not seen eternal life. Yet we believe in them because the Word of God
affirms them, and the saints who lived before us bore witness to these truths.
This—believing what we do not see and living accordingly—is the life of faith.
When we walk the life of
faith, we inevitably face afflictions, challenges, and sufferings. But today’s
verse reminds us that all these troubles are temporary—they will pass away
soon. Moreover, Scripture does not merely call them “afflictions,” but “light
afflictions.”
The sufferings we endure in
this world are insignificant when compared to the glory that awaits us. They
cannot even be measured against the coming glory. That is why Apostle Paul
says, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy
to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”(Romans 8:18, NASB)
Yes, “the things which are
seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2
Corinthians 4:18, NASB)
Therefore, it is essential
that we continue our spiritual race with this mindset. The afflictions,
problems, and difficulties we see in this world should not shake our
faith-walk. When troubles persist, let us comfort ourselves saying:
- “This momentary, light affliction will
pass soon.”
- “The sufferings I experience now cannot
be compared to the glory that is about to be revealed to me.”
This is how Apostle Paul
pressed on through his life’s battles and emerged victorious. The same truth is
given to us as counsel in today’s meditation verse. Dear beloved, since our
focus is not on what is seen but on what is unseen, our afflictions remain
light and momentary. Therefore, let us continue our spiritual journey with
steadfast faith.
"Inside the Seeds" 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1750
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Saturday, 22.11.2025
“Why do you say, Jacob, and you assert,
Israel,
‘My way is hidden from the LORD,
And the justice due me escapes the notice of my God’?
Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth
Does not become weary or tired.
His understanding is inscrutable.” — Isaiah 40:27–28 (NASB)
Dearly beloved, Today’s
meditation verse gives comforting words to those who live with discouragement
and despair.
Many of us, when faced with
suffering, pain, problems, and exhaustion, sometimes lament, “Does God not see
the struggles I am going through? Why is He not bringing justice for me? Why
does He seem to ignore my prayers?”
But God looks at His
children who speak in such sorrow and gently asks, “Why do you say, ‘My way is
hidden from the LORD, and the justice due me escapes my God’?”
Not only that, He
strengthens us further by saying, “My dear son, My dear daughter—
I, who created and govern the earth and the entire universe, have not grown
tired, nor have I become weary. Know this: My wisdom and My ways are
unfathomable.”
At times, when God delays
His answer, it is often because He intends to accomplish something greater in
our lives. Consider, for example, what happened when Lazarus died. His sisters
sent word to Jesus, saying their brother was critically ill and nearing death.
When Jesus heard it, He
said: “This sickness is not meant for death, but is for the glory of God, so
that the Son of God may be glorified by it.” — John 11:4 (NASB)
Yet Jesus did not
immediately go to heal Lazarus.
“So when He heard that he
was sick, He then stayed two days longer in the place where He was.” — John
11:6 (NASB)
What would Lazarus’s sisters
have thought at that time?
Would they not have felt, “Our way is hidden from the Lord”?
And so, when Jesus finally arrived—four days after Lazarus was buried—Martha
said: “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” — John
11:21 (NASB)
But this delay was permitted
by God so that His glory would be revealed.
Yes—His understanding is inscrutable. We think according to human reasoning and
human timelines, but God’s wisdom and His timings are different.
Therefore, as today’s
meditation verse teaches, if we are spiritually like Jacob and Israel—God’s
covenant people—then even when troubles continue, we need not fear that our way
is hidden from the Lord or that our justice is ignored by Him.
The Everlasting God, the
Creator of the ends of the earth, who never tires nor grows weary, will give us
the answer that is right for us—bringing joy in His perfect time.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Scripture
Meditation No. 1751
🔆 AATHAVAN
– 23.11.2025, Sunday
“But you, Israel, My servant,
Jacob whom I have chosen,
Descendant of Abraham My friend—
You whom I have taken from the ends of the earth
And called from its remotest parts
And said to you, ‘You are My servant,
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.’” — Isaiah 41:8–9
Just like yesterday’s
meditation verse, today also the Lord speaks comforting words to us. Once, we
lived without knowing God. But by His grace, He saved us and accepted us as His
children. About this He says, “I took you from the ends of the earth, called
you from its farthest borders, and said to you: ‘You are My servant; I have
chosen you.’”
As those chosen by God, we
are counted as Israel and as the descendants of Abraham, His friend. This is
exactly what the Apostle Paul affirms:
“in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the
Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” — Galatians
3:14 (NASB)
Yes, beloved, we who are
Gentiles have received this blessing through Christ Jesus.
Because we are Abraham’s
spiritual descendants, the Lord lovingly says to us:
“You are My servant, I have chosen you, I have not rejected you.”
Did not our Lord Jesus
Christ say that He will never cast out anyone who comes to Him? “All that the
Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I certainly will
not cast out.” — John 6:37 (NASB)
When we receive Christ Jesus
into our hearts, we become—like Abraham—His everlasting friends. Therefore, the
very blessings God promised Abraham also become ours.
So, in any situation, let us
not be discouraged. When troubles and pressures surround us, let us tell
ourselves:
“I am the descendant of Abraham, God’s friend.
God has taken me from the ends of the earth.
He calls me His servant.
He has chosen me and has not rejected me.”
These words of God will
strengthen us and keep our hearts from trembling when trials and afflictions
chase us in life.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Scripture
Meditation No. 1752
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Monday, 24.11.2025
“For when I am weak, then I
am strong. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with
distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for the sake of Christ.” (2
Corinthians 12:10, NASB)
Generally, we all desire
only the best in life. We expect good strength, good health, prosperity, and a
life without struggles or hardships. But in today’s meditation verse, the
Apostle Paul expresses a completely different attitude—one that is opposite to
our natural thinking.
He says, “I am well content
with weaknesses, insults, distresses, persecutions, and difficulties.” Why does
he say this?
If we understand that reason, we will neither boast in our own strength or
financial growth, nor will we lose heart when we face weakness, sickness, or
suffering.
When everything is
comfortable—good health, financial stability, and a smooth life—we often tend
to forget God. We begin to believe that our own strength and ability earned
everything for us. We fail to value others.
Therefore, God warned the
people of Israel through Moses:
“Otherwise, you may say in
your heart, ‘My power and the strength of my hand made me this wealth.’ But you
shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make
wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it
is this day.”
(Deuteronomy 8:17–18, NASB)
Yes, beloved, God is the One
who gives us wealth, comforts, and a life free from disease. But this truth is
often realized only in our weakness.
When we have nothing left, when we are unable to meet even our next need, and
we cry out to God, we witness His mighty hand working in our lives.
When the doctors give up
hope and we suffer from an incurable disease, that is when we pray
earnestly—and then experience the miraculous healing power of God. That is why
Paul says, “I am well content with weaknesses… for the sake of Christ.”
Apostle Paul, who had
received great spiritual revelations and deep experiences with God, said that
God allowed a thorn in his flesh so that he would not become proud:
“Because of the
extraordinary greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from
exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan
to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself!” (2 Corinthians 12:7, NASB)
Yes, beloved, it is through
the thorns that pierce our weak lives that we learn to experience the power and
grace of God. If you are troubled today by weakness or distress, God speaks to
you the same words He spoke to Paul:
“My grace is sufficient for
you, for power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NASB)
Therefore, let us gladly
boast in our weaknesses so that the power of Christ may dwell in us. Let us
lean entirely on the grace of God.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
Bible Meditation No. 1753
AATHAVAN – 25.11.2025, Tuesday
“Jesus, remember me when You come in Your
kingdom!” (Luke 23:42)
Today, many of us pray in
various ways. In Christian churches too, numerous prayer initiatives are
conducted—midnight prayers, fasting prayers, chain prayers, intercessory
prayers, youth prayers, women’s fellowship, special prayer worship, and the
list goes on endlessly. But in these prayer gatherings, how far are people made
aware of sin? This remains a big question.
Beloved, we must first
understand one truth: any prayer without repentance is not acceptable before
God.
The prayer we read in
today’s meditation is not a long prayer made by a great saint. Instead, it is
the plea of a thief who had been sentenced to death. A prayer consisting of
barely seven or eight words.
Today, Christians take
several prayers from the Bible as models—Jabez’s prayer, Moses’ prayer, the
prayers of David and Solomon—and use them often. But the prayer of this
condemned criminal was not decorated with poetic words; rather, it was a
heartfelt cry that rose from deep sorrow and repentance.
Before he prayed to Jesus
Christ, let us notice what he said to the other thief crucified beside him: “Do
you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?
And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for
our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” (Luke 23:40–41)
This means he had realized
his sin. He accepted that his punishment was just. He understood that Jesus
Christ is sinless, and that He is the Messiah who forgives sins. Therefore, he
prayed: “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom.”
And Jesus replied to him: “Truly
I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Yes, beloved, long extended
prayers and fastings without repentance are not acceptable to God. But even a
short prayer that comes from a truly repentant heart is received graciously by
the Lord.
A man who lived his entire
life as a thief prayed a simple prayer in repentance—and he received the
glorious promise: “Today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” If Christ
granted him eternal life, will He not hear our prayer?
Let us examine ourselves.
Has our sinful way of life ever pierced our hearts? Or are we praying without
any understanding or conviction?
Beloved, no one should say,
“I don’t know how to pray.” Can we not pray as this thief prayed?
If we, like him, realize our
sins, truly repent for what we have done, and seek forgiveness from the Lord,
God will certainly forgive and accept us.
For the Scripture says:
“If we confess our sins, He
is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1754
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Wednesday, 26.11.2025
“You will also be a crown of
beauty in the hand of the Lord,
And a royal diadem in the hand of your God.” — Isaiah 62:3
Many Christians commonly
print today’s meditation verse on tombstones and memorial cards. However, this
verse is not meant for the dead; rather, it is spoken to the people redeemed by
Christ.
For a king, a crown and a
royal diadem symbolize authority and majesty. In this verse, we see a strong
emphasis on value and honour. The images of “a crown of beauty” and “a royal
diadem” are powerful, representing beauty, uniqueness, and special favour.
God’s people are not ordinary; they are precious in His sight. The word “crown”
points to something valuable and exalted, reminding us that every person has a
significant place in God’s divine plan.
To understand the depth of
this verse, we must first grasp its context and purpose. The prophet Isaiah is
well known for delivering messages of comfort, hope, and restoration to the
Israelites. After returning from exile, the people of Israel faced many challenges
in rebuilding their lives in Jerusalem. The imagery in this verse reflects
God’s promise to lift them up again. Isaiah writes this to assure a people once
enslaved and exiled that their honour would be restored after much suffering.
In the same way, as New
Testament believers who were once slaves to sin but redeemed by Christ, we are
transformed into valuable vessels in God’s hands. This verse reminds us of our
inner worth. It encourages us to understand our identity as God’s beloved
children—created with purpose and significance.
All who are redeemed are
made by God to be kings and priests. As Peter declares:
“But you are a chosen
people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession,
so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of
darkness into His marvellous light.” — 1 Peter 2:9
Dearly beloved, though
poverty or struggles may press us in this earthly life, those redeemed by
Christ are not beggars but kings. That is why Isaiah continues in the next
verse:
“It will no longer be said to you, ‘Forsaken,’
Nor to your land will it any longer be said, ‘Desolate’;
But you will be called, ‘My delight is in her,’
And your land, ‘Married’;
For the Lord delights in you,
And to Him your land will be married.”
— Isaiah 62:4
What a glorious truth—that
we are a crown of beauty and a royal diadem in the hand of the Lord! Let us
rejoice in this honour.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1755
🔆 Aathavan –
Thursday, 27.11.2025
“So then do not be foolish,
but understand what the will of the Lord is. Make the most of your time,
because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:16–17)
Today’s meditation verse
instructs us to live with wisdom, understanding the will of God. God has a
purpose for each of our lives. According to Paul, realizing this divine purpose
and aligning our lives with it is true wisdom. Those who fail to understand
God’s will are considered foolish. Therefore, he urges us: “Do not be
foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”
A school student may set a
goal to score well in the final examination. But success cannot be achieved by
studying only on the day before the exam. The student must work throughout the
year and use the given time wisely. A student who neglects this is considered
foolish. Likewise, a spiritual person must clearly know God’s will for their
life and act intentionally for its fulfilment.
Today’s Scripture teaches us
the importance of time in the Christian life and how to use it wisely. Paul
reminds us to be aware of the moments God has granted us. We live in a world
filled with desires and distractions that can easily pull us away from God’s
path. Therefore, we must be intentional—seeking opportunities to do good and
share our faith with others.
The phrase “because the days
are evil” warns us of the spiritual challenges we face in this world. Though
the world may present situations that hinder our spiritual growth, we can still
shine God’s light through our actions. To do this, we must make the best use of
every opportunity given to us.
Just as we remain active and
diligent in our worldly responsibilities, we must be equally diligent in
spiritual matters. Yet, accomplishing tasks alone is not enough. We must root
everything in foundational Christian virtues—kindness, love, and compassion.
This is why Paul says: “All that you do must be done in love.” (1 Corinthians
16:14)
Every moment God gives us
can be an opportunity to express His love. We must use those moments wisely.
Paul’s instruction reminds us that every minute is significant in Christian
living.
We do not know how long God
has granted us life on this earth. Therefore, since the days are short and
filled with challenges, let us use them wisely and purposefully.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1756
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Friday, 28.11.2025
“The Lord is a refuge for
the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble.” — Psalm 9:9
The reason faith and trust
in God continue to remain alive among people in this world is that God has kept
many individuals humble and simple. As we read the Scriptures, we see that it
was not the wealthy or the powerful who lived with deep faith in God, but
rather the lowly and the oppressed who lived with greater devotion and
spiritual commitment. On the other hand, the rich often act religious merely to
increase their wealth and display their greatness. Generally, profound
spiritual experiences are not found among those who live in luxury.
The reason is that humble
and simple people, when distressed, cling to God with faith. They experience
His power and the joy of His deliverance in their personal lives. They pass on
these experiences to their children, nurturing them with the same trust in God.
When we read the Scriptures,
it is ordinary, poor, and simple people who teach us the greatest spiritual
lessons. David, when he lived in lowliness, trusted God during times of
distress and took refuge in Him — and God exalted him as king. Likewise, Abraham,
Isaac, Jacob, Naomi, Gideon, and many others were people who, from a lowly
state, looked to God and lived with Him as their refuge.
From his own life
experiences, David declares today’s meditation verse. Yes, he continues by
saying: “For the needy will not always be forgotten, Nor the hope of the
afflicted perish forever.” — Psalm 9:18
Mother Mary also proclaims
that when we live a true life that fears God, He exalts the humble from
generation to generation: “And His mercy is to generation after generation toward
those who fear Him. He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered
those who were proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down
rulers from their thrones, and has exalted those who were humble.”— Luke
1:50–52
If pride is found in the
thoughts of our hearts, let us remove it and seek the humility God desires.
Dearly beloved, perhaps
today we are discouraged by the problems we face. But this meditation verse
helps us remove such hopelessness. Yes, our God is a refuge for the oppressed;
He is our shelter in times of trouble. Therefore, especially in moments of distress,
we must look to God and live with stronger faith.
Let us take a firm decision
to live a life that fears the Lord.
“And His mercy is to generation after generation toward those who fear Him.”
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1757
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Saturday, 29.11.2025
“Therefore, the Lord longs to be gracious to
you,
And therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you.
For the Lord is a God of justice;
How blessed are all those who long for Him.” (Isaiah 30:18)
In this world, most people
live by relying on their own strength rather than trusting in God. No matter
how many problems arise in their lives, instead of looking to God for
deliverance, they continue to depend on their own ability. But when one lives
like this, problems keep chasing them endlessly.
The prophet Isaiah explains
this in the preceding verse: “You said, ‘No, for we will flee on horses,’
therefore you shall flee! ‘And we will ride on swift horses,’ therefore those
who pursue you shall be swift.” (Isaiah 30:16)
Yes, dear ones—when we leave
God and try to escape our problems through our own strength, the Lord Himself
says that the very problems we are running from will pursue us swiftly.
Yet, because our God is
compassionate, He desires to set us free. This is exactly what today’s
Scripture affirms: Even if you turn away from Him and rely on your own
strength, “The Lord longs to be gracious to you, and waits on high to have
compassion on you; For the Lord is a God of justice; How blessed are all those
who long for Him.” (Isaiah 30:18)
Our God is a God of justice.
Therefore, He will not abandon us. Even when we run away from Him, He patiently
waits to show compassion. When we turn back to Him and wait patiently for His
time, we will indeed be blessed. He will act justly on our behalf in the things
we need. Yes, it is essential that we wait on Him with patience.
Today’s Scripture says, “The
Lord longs to be gracious to you… He waits on high to have compassion on you.” This
aligns with the teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ in the parable about the
unjust judge (Luke 18). A widow persistently pleaded with the judge for
justice, and though he was unjust, he granted her justice simply because she
kept bothering him.
Jesus then said: “Now, will
God not bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night, and
will He delay long for them?” (Luke 18:7)
Through this parable, Jesus
teaches us that God—who knows His people—will patiently listen and bring
justice to them. Therefore, for those who do not rely on their own strength but
wait for the Lord, “The Lord is a God of justice; How blessed are all those who
long for Him.” (Isaiah 30:18)
He Himself waits to show
compassion to those who wait for Him. So, let us not depend solely on our
efforts and abilities; instead, let us give God the priority in our lives and
wait patiently for Him. Then we will surely be blessed.
“Inside the Seeds” 🌳
📖 Bible
Meditation No. 1758
🔆 AATHAVAN –
Sunday, 30.11.2025
“I will put My Spirit within
you and you will come to life, and I will place you on your own land. Then you
will know that I, the LORD, have spoken and done it,” declares the LORD.” — Ezekiel
37:14
The sign that we are
physically alive is our breathing. When someone is critically ill or near
death, we check for life by placing our hands near their nose to feel their
breath. Likewise, in our spiritual life, the sign that we are alive is the Holy
Spirit.
When we lived without
knowing God, we were slaves to sin and spiritually dead. But Christ forgave our
sins and made us born again. After knowing Him, to stay free from the grip of
sin, His Spirit must dwell within us and rule our lives. Only then can we become
spiritually alive. This is why the Lord says, “I will put My Spirit within
you, and you will come to life.” Only when the Spirit of God is in us can
we truly know that Jesus Christ is Lord. This is what today’s meditation verse
teaches: “Then you will know that I, the LORD…”
Paul the Apostle also says: “Therefore
I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, ‘Jesus is
accursed’; and no one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit.” — 1
Corinthians 12:3
To show Ezekiel the
necessity of being filled with the Spirit, God took him to a valley filled with
dry bones. God said to him: “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of
Israel; behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope has perished. We
are completely cut off.’” — Ezekiel 37:11
Then God commanded Ezekiel to prophesy over those bones.
We read: “So I prophesied as
He commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they came to life and stood
on their feet, an exceedingly great army.” — Ezekiel 37:10
Today, in the New Testament
era, we are the spiritual house of Israel. Because of sin, our bones may feel
dried up, our hope lost, and our life cut off — but we should not despair. The
Holy Spirit is given to give us life.
Just as God told Ezekiel: “Behold,
I am going to make breath enter you so that you may come to life.” — Ezekiel
37:5. He tells us the same even today.
We must be filled with the
Holy Spirit so that we may become spiritually alive and know the Lord Jesus
Christ. Yes — “Then you will know that I, the LORD, have spoken and done it,”
declares the LORD.
Our Lord Jesus Christ also
tells us: “For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to
the one who knocks it will be opened.” — Matthew 7:8. Therefore, ask for
the Holy Spirit!
If our spiritual life has
dried up, we must be filled with the Holy Spirit. Only then will we come to
life, stand on our feet, and become a great army for the Lord.
