🏫 Bible Meditation - July 2026

 

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1971

July 01, Wednesday 2026

“Roam to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and look now and take note. And seek in her open squares, if you can find a man, if there is one who does justice, who seeks truth, then I will pardon her.” (Jeremiah 5:1)

Our God hates sin, but He loves sinners. He desires that no one should perish due to sin and lose the joy of heaven. That is why, no matter how great a sinner a person may be, when they realize their sin, repent, and seek forgiveness, He forgives them through His grace and grants them salvation.

If there are people living according to God's will in a country or a town, God refrains from bringing harm upon that entire nation for their sake. This is exactly why He says, “Roam to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and look now and take note. And seek in her open squares, if you can find a man, if there is one who does justice... then I will pardon her.”

In the days of Abraham, God decided to destroy the city of Sodom, where Lot lived, because of its wickedness. At that time, Abraham interceded for those people. He asked, “Lord, suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it?” God replied, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the whole place on their account.” But fifty righteous people were not found there.

Abraham continually approached God, adjusting his previous question and gradually reducing the number of the righteous. Instead of fifty, what if there are 45, 40, 30, or 20? God responded, “I will not destroy it on account of the twenty.” Finally, we read that Abraham said:

“Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak only this once; suppose ten are found there?” And He said, “I will not destroy it on account of the ten.” (Genesis 18:32)

But not even ten righteous people were found there. God destroyed the city.

Yes, dearly beloved, the Lord God says:

“Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man 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)

As an example of this, we can look at the message in the Book of Jonah. Because of Nineveh's sin, God decided to destroy that city. However, when the people repented upon hearing Jonah's preaching, God relented from His decision and spared Nineveh from destruction. God said:

“Should I not have compassion on Nineveh, the great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know the difference between their right and left hand, as well as many animals?” (Jonah 4:11)

Yes, dearly beloved, God is deeply loving toward all living beings in the world.

The message we receive through today's meditation is that when we live a righteous life, it brings protection not only to us but also to the nation we live in and all the living creatures within it. Yes, the Lord God says: “Roam to and fro through the streets of the nation, take note, and seek in her open squares; if you find a man who does justice, I will pardon her.” Let us transform ourselves into such people. Let the nation be protected through us.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1972                                                                                             July 02, Thursday 2026

"Do not be afraid, only believe." (Mark 5:36)

We might have seen it written in some offices that "Delay breeds corruption." Yes, human delay can cause corruption, but God’s delay allows us to witness miracles.

There are many examples of this in the Bible. One such incident recorded in the Gospels is about Jairus, a synagogue official who came to Jesus Christ. It is written: "One of the synagogue officials named Jairus came, and seeing Him, fell at His feet and implored Him earnestly, saying, 'My little daughter is at the point of death; please come and lay Your hands on her, so that she will get well and live.'" (Mark 5:22, 23)

How deep must the agony have been for that father who came to Jesus Christ seeking help for his dying daughter! However, as Jesus Christ set out toward his house, a woman came as an obstacle. She had been suffering from a haemorrhage. Thinking to herself that if she could just touch Jesus' garments she would get well, she did so and was healed. Then, Jesus Christ stood there talking to her. "While He was still speaking, they came from the house of the synagogue official, saying, 'Your daughter has died; why trouble the Teacher anymore?'" (Mark 5:35)

What would Jairus have thought at that moment? He might have blamed that woman in his heart. He might have thought that if Jesus had not delayed for her and had gone straight to his house, his daughter might have survived. What was left now? Everything was over. But the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing his deep sorrow, spoke to him with love: "Do not be afraid, only believe." He then went to his house and raised his deceased daughter back to life.

Yes, dearly beloved, it is we as humans who get troubled by looking at time, seasons, and circumstances. But God is the One who has the power to change all of these. Similarly, when His friend Lazarus was sick, Jesus delayed. Even after hearing that he was sick, He stayed two days longer in the place where He was (John 11:6). Then He departed, and four days after Lazarus had died, He raised him to life.

Dear brothers and sisters reading this today, you might be languishing like this under some problem, suffering, or sickness. You might be troubled, thinking that despite praying so much, there is no result. You might even think that God has not heard your prayer. But the Lord Jesus looks at you and says, "Do not be afraid, only believe."

Yes, it is good for us to wait faithfully for God’s timing and action. God's delay helps our faith grow; it increases our devotion to Him; it helps us hold onto Him in life; and above all, it brings a mighty miracle into our lives. Truly, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life." (Proverbs 13:12)

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1973

July 03, Friday 2026

"Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; My eye is wasted away from grief, my soul and my body also." — Psalm 31:9

Today’s meditation verse is David’s plea to God during a time of his most severe and agonizing distress. Such crises happen to everyone in the world at some point or another. When we read the daily newspapers today, we can see many suicides occurring precisely due to this kind of despondency. In these kinds of crises, a person's mind and body are deeply affected. This is exactly what David means when he says, "My eye is wasted away from grief, my soul and my body also."

For example, when everyone who studied with us is well-settled in life with a good job, but we alone are left behind without employment, we feel ashamed even to walk around our own village, don't we? Won't everyone in village look down upon us? This is exactly what David describes:

"Because of all my adversaries, I have become a reproach, especially to my neighbours, And an object of dread to my acquaintances; Those who see me in the street flee from me. I am forgotten as a dead man, out of mind; I am like a broken vessel." — Psalm 31:11-12

During times like these, we cannot approach the people of this world for comfort. We cannot reveal our deepest inner agonies to anyone; even if we do reveal them, no one can fully comprehend our anxieties. But God can understand them, and He can change them. Therefore, during such times, it is essential that we cling to God alone. Yes, let us declare just as David does:

"But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, 'You are my God.'" — Psalm 31:14

When we share our anxieties with human beings, even if they listen with compassion and offer words of comfort, they sometimes reveal what we told them to others. This only amplifies the agony we already have. Therefore, dearly beloved, when you are weary in such afflictions, it is best to share your anxieties and pain with God alone, and to wait quietly for Him to act.

Let us lay bare our genuine agonies before God exactly as they are, just as David does when he says, "Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; My eye is wasted away from grief, my soul and my body also." Unlike humans, He will not look down upon us, despise us, or gossip about our sufferings to others. Yes, as it is written:

"For He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; Nor has He hidden His face from him; But when he cried to Him for help, He heard." — Psalm 22:24

According to this word, He will hear our cry and grant us the perfect answer.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1974

Saturday, July 04, 2026

"I will lead those who are blind by a way they do not know, in paths they do not know I will guide them. I will make darkness into light before them and crooked places into plains. These are the things I will do, and I will not leave them undone." — Isaiah 42:16

If we want to truly know God in our lives, it is absolutely essential that we first acknowledge our own ignorance. If we look at any matter and think, "I know everything," it means we do not yet know anything as we ought to know it. Did not the Apostle Paul say, "If anyone supposes that he knows anything, he has not yet known as he ought to know"? (1 Corinthians 8:2).

This is equally true when it comes to knowing God. The reason many people today do not truly know God in their lives is that they refuse to admit the reality that they do not know Him. Many simply believe that whatever their parents taught them about God is the ultimate truth; they never attempt to know God on a personal level, and consequently, they live out their entire lives without ever truly knowing Him.

If we pray with a sincere desire to know Him, saying, "Lord, I am truly blind and do not know You. I need to know You. Let it not just be what my parents or the church priests say—reveal Yourself to me personally," He will surely reveal Himself to us. Indeed, "The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth." (Psalm 145:18).

This is exactly what God is telling us through today’s meditation verse. That is, He promises to lead those who are spiritually blind—who do not know God—by a way they have never known in their lives, and He will transform the darkness and the crooked paths of their lives.

To the people who live without surrendering themselves to God in this manner, God says in the very next verse of today's passage: "They will be turned back and be utterly put to shame, who trust in idols, who say to molten images, 'You are our gods.'" (Isaiah 42:17). In other words, those who do not perceive God in their souls, but instead bow down to idols and statues, calling them their gods, will turn back and miss out on truly knowing God in their lives.

Yes, dearly beloved, what matters is not what others tell us, but whether we have personally experienced God in our own lives. The Bible describes the experiences of many saints who knew God, loved Him, and lived for Him. These accounts are not there merely for us to read and gain knowledge, but so that we too might experience those same realities in our own lives.

Only when we first admit that we are spiritually blind can we truly come to know Him. Then, He will lead us—who were blind—by a way we have never known, guide us in paths unfamiliar to us, turn our darkness into light, and make our crooked places straight. He assures us that He will not leave us until He has done these things. Let us confess our ignorance about God to Him and pray. He will surely reveal Himself to us.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1975

July 05, Sunday 2026

"I have led you forty years in the wilderness; your clothes have not worn out on you, and your sandal has not worn out on your foot. You have not eaten bread, nor have you drunk wine or strong drink, in order that you might know that I am the Lord your God." — Deuteronomy 29:5-6 (NASB)

The distance the people of Israel travelled from Egypt toward Canaan was actually quite short. The most direct coastal route from Egypt to the southern region of Canaan is only about 90 to 140 km. Traveling by foot on this path, one could reach Canaan in just a few weeks. However, the path God used to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt was much longer. The indirect route they took through the Sinai Peninsula spanned about 987 km. Even traveling this way, the journey did not require 40 years. Yet, that is exactly what God allowed.

We read about this in Scripture:

"Now when Pharaoh had let the people go, God did not lead them by the way of the land of the Philistines, even though it was near; for God said, 'The people might change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.' Hence God turned the people aside by the way of the wilderness to the Red Sea; and the sons of Israel went up in martial array from the land of Egypt." — Exodus 13:17-18 (NASB)

The reason for this is that God intentionally did it Himself. As we read in today’s meditation verse, this was: "...in order that you might know that I am the Lord your God."

In other words, it is precisely within hardships that we can truly know God and experience His miracles. Because of this, God allowed the people to face various afflictions, wars, and crises like food shortages. This is why it is said, "You have not eaten bread, nor have you drunk wine or strong drink." Yes, just as they had eaten in Egypt, they did not get ordinary bread in the wilderness, nor did they have wine or strong drink. Yet, God also rescued them from these distresses. Instead of worldly bread, He gave them manna to eat. Their clothes and the sandals on their feet did not wear out.

Yes, beloved, when we walk away from the sinful life of "Egypt" toward God, various afflictions in this world may press against us. Many comforts and provisions we previously enjoyed might no longer be available. But we must not return to our old life because of that. As today’s meditation verse declares, the Lord God says: I am leading you through such a wilderness path so that you may know that I am the Lord your God.

The path through which God leads us, His spiritual people, is not a short, worry-free, and trouble-free path like the one worldly people walk. Rather, it is a wilderness path like the one the people of Israel walked. Even though this path is difficult, God will miraculously lead us so that the clothes on our bodies do not wear out, and the sandals on our feet do not wear out, enabling us to cross this wilderness. That is to say, He will miraculously grant us the strength to overcome these afflictions. Moreover, it is only while walking this very path that we can truly come to know the Lord God in our lives.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1976

July 06, Monday 2026

"Though I wrote for him ten thousand precepts of My law, they are regarded as a strange thing." — Hosea 8:12

For the well-being of humanity, God has given us the Holy Bible, containing various commandments and the life experiences of the saints who lived by them. He did this so that we might understand them, live according to them, and attain eternal life. It was for this very purpose that, in ancient times, God spoke in many portions and in many ways through the prophets. In these last days, He has spoken to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. These are the truths recorded in the Bible.

We read in Hebrews 1:1–2:

"God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world."

Furthermore, concerning how Scripture came to be, 2 Peter 1:21 states:

"for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God."

Yet, God speaks with deep sorrow: "Though I wrote for him ten thousand precepts of My law, they are regarded as a strange thing." In other words, God is saying that people view these commandments as if they do not apply to them.

Every school and college has its own set of rules and regulations. If we wish to continue studying in that school or college, we must abide by those rules. We cannot excuse ourselves by saying, "These rules do not exist in other schools or colleges, so I cannot follow them here."

Yes, dearly beloved, Christianity does not teach us to live the way other religions might. Our God is holy. Therefore, the commandments of the Christian faith are written precisely so that we may become holy just as He is holy. As it is written:

"because it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" — 1 Paragraph 1:16 (1 Peter 1:16)

The more we love and meditate upon the words of the Bible that God has written for us, the more God will elevate us in our spiritual lives. That is why God spoke to the people of Israel through Moses as follows:

"You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets on your forehead. You shall teach them to your sons, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." — Deuteronomy 11:18–20 (Note: The Tamil citation references vv. 19-21, matching NASB vv. 18-20).

The Bible that God has written for us is not a "strange thing." It is our guide for life. Just as Moses said, it is vital that we teach these scriptural words to our children from a young age and speak to them about them. For indeed:

"For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is spirit; and reproofs for discipline are the way of life." — Proverbs 6:23

Let us not neglect the greatness of the Word that God has written for us, but rather let us honour it and walk according to it.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1977

July 07, Tuesday 2026

“If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.” — 1 Corinthians 15:19

Generally, people who live believing in God are referred to by everyone as spiritual people. Every religion in the world has its own believers. However, the real question is whether everyone is truly spiritual.

If people are genuinely spiritual, they ought to be concerned about their soul and actively engage in things that bring life to it. But looking at many in the world today who claim to be spiritual, it is a big question mark whether they actually give any thought to their soul.

Whether we observe the places of worship of any religion, if we look closely at the prayers, requests, and vows of the people, we can see that almost 100% of them revolve around their worldly, material needs. We see that their prayers are constantly focused on things like healing from sickness, finding solutions to problems, getting their children married, bearing children, or finding suitable jobs for their educated children.

Even in Christian churches, many ministers pray for these exact intentions. The believers who come there are no different. In Christian convention meetings, these are the types of teachings and testimonies we predominantly see and hear.

Today's meditation verse declares that those who pray like this are to be pitied. The reason is that they pass away without ever truly knowing God in their lives; they lose out on the eternal life that God has prepared for them. Yes, dearly beloved, this is why today's meditation verse warns us. If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are to be pitied. Furthermore, claiming to be spiritual under those conditions is simply a lie.

Even if we receive what we ask for through such prayers, it is only because God grants it out of His grace; obtaining it brings no benefit to our soul. Even people who have no faith in God possess all kinds of wealth and live well in this world. A friend who used to work with me has no belief in God, and even now, he continues to write and speak against the concept of God. His entire family stands firm in that same conviction. His children are also well-settled in good, worldly jobs.

Dearly beloved, if we are truly spiritual, we must first have a deep concern for our soul. We must experience the presence of God within that soul; our desire for God must be the supreme desire in us, and we must share a close, loving relationship with Him. We must possess a sense of God's guidance and a constant awareness that our soul lives on even after this worldly life—whether that means eternal heavenly joy or the eternal fire of hell.

Without any of this, if we merely go to churches and keep praying only for our worldly needs, we are not spiritual people; nor are we true Christians. Yes, this is exactly what our Lord Jesus Christ spoke about:

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” — Matthew 6:33

Let us not place our hope in Christ for this life only, lest we become people who are, of all men, most to be pitied.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1978

July 08, Wednesday 2026

"Come, let us return to the Lord. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bandage us." — Hosea 6:1

It is essential to raise children with discipline and correction. Today, most parents do not discipline their children in this manner. In the past, teachers in schools corrected and reformed students who made mistakes. But today, that is not the case; a teacher who disciplines a child faces punishment in court. The social degradation we see today is the result of this. Yes, the Scripture advises us to raise children with correction:

"Do not hold back discipline from the child; although you strike him with the rod, he will not die." — Proverbs 23:13

When children do wrong, good mothers and fathers discipline them. Sometimes, if a mother strikes her child severely, she is the very one who later comforts and fondles that child. God leads us in the same way. The very One who brings discipline also provides us comfort.

Sometimes, our own mistakes and sins may be the cause of our trials and sufferings; they may be the discipline that God sends. However, because our God is merciful and gracious, He embraces us when we repent and seek forgiveness. Job expresses this beautifully:

"For He inflicts pain, and gives relief; He wounds, and His hands also heal." — Job 5:18

The reason God disciplines us like this is because He treats us as His own children. Yes,

"It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?" — Hebrews 12:7

We can only discipline our own children, not the children of others. Yes, dearly beloved, because we are His children, God corrects us when we stray. Job counsels us:

"Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves, so do not reject the discipline of the Almighty." — Job 5:17

Our parents do not discipline us forever. They corrected us when we failed to do what they considered good for us. Once we reached a certain age, they stopped disciplining us. But God corrects and guides us until the very end of our lives so that we may be worthy of His holy kingdom. We read of this in the Epistle to the Hebrews:

"For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness." — Hebrews 12:10

Not all of our sufferings are caused by God's discipline. Nevertheless, when we face crises, it is essential to examine ourselves and correct our ways. Yes, dearly beloved, we do not need to be troubled when we suffer through afflictions. God works for our good through these trials. Indeed, it is often through suffering that we are kept from wandering away from Him.

If human life were filled only with joy and happiness, free from problems and trials, no one would seek God. Today’s meditation verse is spoken directly to those who are suffering from afflictions. Therefore, in times of trouble, let us examine our lives and return to the Lord. Yes, according to the words—He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bandage us—the God of grace will comfort us.

"AATHAVAN" (Sun) Meditation - 1979

July 09, Thursday, 2026

"AND HIS MERCY IS UPON GENERATION AFTER GENERATION TOWARD THOSE WHO FEAR HIM." (Luke 1:50, NASB)

We often observe people undergoing various arduous efforts to obtain the mercy of God. In various temples, people perform difficult acts of penance: they pierce their cheeks with metal rods, insert skewers through their tongues, perform angapradakshinam (rolling their bodies on the ground around the temple), walk on fire, or eat food directly off the ground without plates. In these ways and many others, they inflict suffering upon their own bodies.

However, we can receive the mercy of God without any such rigorous efforts. Today’s meditation verse tells us exactly this: "And His mercy is upon generation after generation toward those who fear Him." Yes, beloved, it is not through difficult physical labours, but by living a life that fears God, that we receive His mercy.

Did our precious Lord Jesus Christ not say that His burden is gentle and light? Indeed, Christ declares:

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30, NASB)

Living in the fear of God is the simple path He prescribes. Fearing God means abstaining from the evil things He hates. The Lord God says:

"The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; Pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverted mouth, I hate." (Proverbs 8:13, NASB)

Furthermore, when we abandon pride and walk with humility, God grants us His grace, making our burden light.

"You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." (1 Peter 5:5, NASB)

Today, even many Christians, seeing the actions of friends from other religions, engage in similar body-mortifying rituals. Human beings might look upon such actions with pity, but God shows mercy only when He sees a repentant, humble heart.

Instead of afflicting our bodies, let us afflict our souls with sorrow for our sins. Let us commit ourselves to living a spiritual life that fears God. His mercy is not only for those who fear Him, but it extends to their generation after generation.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1980

Friday, July 10, 2026

"It is definitely because they have misled My people by saying, 'Peace!' when there is no peace. And when anyone builds a wall, behold, they plaster it with whitewash." — Ezekiel 13:10 (NASB)

It is essential for us to cultivate a personal relationship with God. Today, however, believers who grow through this kind of personal fellowship with Him are generally very few. Consequently, many believers run after ministers who claim to be servants of Christ, seeking to learn about themselves and their lives.

These ministers believe that unless they offer soothing words, believers will not return to them, and their income will not grow. Therefore, they send people away with comforting assurances. This is precisely what today’s meditation verse highlights: "It is definitely because they have misled My people by saying, 'Peace!' when there is no peace." It is not just one minister—most ministers continue to deceive believers with lies in this manner.

Today’s meditation verse continues to describe this: "And when anyone builds a wall, behold, they plaster it with whitewash." A true servant of God must expose the spiritual weaknesses of the people. They should point out their sins and guide them toward repentance. Prophet Nathan did exactly this—he made King David aware of his sin and brought him to repentance.

However, I believe that such genuine ministers can be counted on one's fingers today. In the early days of my spiritual journey, Pastor Johnson David of the Indian Pentecostal Church (I.P.C.) was a faithful servant endowed with prophetic gifts who guided me. Simply put, according to today’s verse, he did not know how to apply untampered mortar or whitewash! Without partiality, he would rebuke anyone, convicting them of their errors and warning them. His leadership helped me grow in my spiritual life, though many did not like him because they disliked his firm discipline.

Dearly beloved, if we run only after ministers who offer us comfort and blessings to make us happy, we cannot progress in our spiritual life. Indeed:

"'I will spend My wrath on the wall and on those who have plastered it with whitewash; and I will say to you, "The wall is gone and those who plastered it are gone, along with the prophets of Israel who prophesy to Jerusalem, and who see a vision of peace for her when there is no peace," declares the Lord GOD.'" — Ezekiel 13:15–16 (NASB)

We must pay close attention to the warning in this Scripture. Both the believers who sought out these ministers (the wall) and the ministers who plastered it (with whitewash) will perish. Yes, the Lord GOD says that the prophets who see visions of peace when there is no peace will cease to exist. Isn't this a profoundly serious warning?

The spiritual life is not a game. Ministry is not meant for making money or gathering crowds to glorify oneself. Let us be cautious and repent. To grow in a genuine spiritual experience, let us cultivate a personal relationship with God. As a first step, let us pray that God Himself will provide us with the right ministers to guide us.

Let us pray:

"Lord, I am blind and do not know You. Show me a faithful spiritual minister who can guide me."

When we do, the Lord GOD promises:

"Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you knowledge and understanding." —  Jeremiah 3:15 (NASB)

"AATHAVAN" Meditation — 1981

Saturday, July 11, 2026

"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?" — Luke 11:13 (NASB)

Even Satan can use Scripture to confuse people by presenting biblical proofs. This is exactly how he tempted the Lord Jesus Christ through the words of Scripture. However, Jesus Christ retaliated and answered him using those very same Scriptures.

Satan's tactic is to rely on a specific scriptural passage without observing the context in which it was spoken, or to read and interpret only the parts favourable to us without looking at the complete truth of the verse. A passage that has been similarly misunderstood by most ministers and people is the following statement spoken by the Lord Jesus Christ:

"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened." — Luke 11:9-10 (NASB)

This verse is understood by many to mean that God will grant whatever worldly blessing we ask for. But we will only understand what truth this verse is actually trying to convey, and why it was spoken, if we read further. Jesus concludes this teaching by saying: "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"

In other words, He is telling us to ask the Heavenly Father for the Holy Spirit, to seek the Holy Spirit in our lives, and to keep knocking because we need Him. That is why it is written: "how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"

What a massive deception it is to twist the truth spoken by Jesus Christ—that we should live with a deep desire to receive the Holy Spirit in our lives—by taking only the part we want for ourselves and abandoning the vital concluding portion!

The verses of the Bible show us the path to a holy life in this world and help us attain eternal life; they are not entirely about worldly blessings. Did Jesus Christ not say:

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." — Matthew 6:33 (NASB)

Would the One who said this turn around and tell us to ask, seek, and knock for worldly blessings? Shouldn't we recognize the truth that Jesus Christ is not someone who changes His words from one moment to the next?

"You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God." — James 4:3-4 (NASB)

Beloved, it is essential that we consume the Bible as the Word of God meant for our spiritual growth. Let us not fall prey to Satan's tactics by chopping, cropping, and interpreting the verses to suit ourselves. Instead, let us understand them according to the truth in which they were spoken, and live them out.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1982

July 12, Sunday 2026

"as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things." — 2 Corinthians 6:10 (NASB)

The way the world sees us is different from the way God sees us. When we live a spiritual life, today’s meditation verse illustrates the contrast and gap between us and the world. God helped me discern this very early in my spiritual journey.

In the early days, most of the people attending the church I went to were poor and lowly. There was no outward grandeur or pretension in them. They were mostly daily wage labourers and women who worked as domestic helps. They did not have guaranteed daily work, and their income was very low; even their homes were built with tiled or coconut-thatch roofs.

However, when you spoke with them, you could learn spiritual truths that could not be grasped even from those who studied in major theological colleges. Yes, dear ones—unworldly, flashy people might hesitate even to speak to such individuals and often look down on them as if they were untouchables. Yet, it is precisely concerning such spiritual people that today’s meditation verse speaks, describing them as those who are: as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things.

They may be sorrowful due to financial distress, but they are always rejoicing in the Spirit. They may be poor, but they are making many rich in the spiritual life. They may have nothing, but because they carry Christ within themselves, they possess all things.

Dearly beloved, we often assume that those who wear grand clothing and arrive at massive churches in four-wheeled vehicles are the blessed ones. However, many who come to church in such grand display do not personally know God, nor do they possess higher spiritual experiences. For many of them, family life remains filled with sorrow.

Indeed, in God's eyes, they are the exact opposite of today’s meditation verse: though appearing to be rejoicing, they are sorrowful; though considered rich, they are poor; and though having everything, they have nothing.

The cause of such a massive transformation is receiving the Lord Jesus Christ into one's heart. The Apostle Paul explains this spiritual truth to us through today's verse from his own personal experience.

When we receive Christ into our hearts and grow in a personal relationship with Him, God will transform us in the same way. Then we, too—even if considered sorrowful due to the troubles of this worldly life—will be always rejoicing; though considered poor, we will make many rich; and though considered to have nothing, we will prove to possess all things.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1983

Monday, July 13, 2026

"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

In this world, God chose the people of Israel to be His own. Therefore, He gave them various commandments so that they might live in a manner pleasing to Him. He did not give such righteous statutes to any nation other than Israel. We read of this in Scripture:

"Or what great nation is there that has statutes and judgments as righteous as this whole Law which I am setting before you today?" — Deuteronomy 4:8

Bible scholars have counted approximately 613 commandments from Exodus through Deuteronomy. Indeed, all these commandments were given so that His people might become holy.

However, these commandments could not sanctify the people as God desired. The people kept breaking the commandments. The reason for this is that human strength alone cannot keep them. Therefore, God provided salvation to the world by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin. The Apostle Paul expresses this truth:

"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

Yes, beloved ones, it is not our self-strength, but the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus that grants us freedom from sin and the spiritual death that follows it. We cannot gain freedom from sin through our own human effort. Full freedom from sin comes only when we surrender our bodies to be crucified with Christ.

"Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him." — Romans 6:6–8

To be crucified with Christ does not mean that we, like Him, must literally be nailed to a wooden cross with iron nails; rather, it signifies complete surrender to Him. That is, first confessing our sins to Him and seeking forgiveness, and then acknowledging Him as the primary Lord of our lives. If we do this, our old self is crucified with Him, and through His strength, we are made capable of overcoming sin.

This is why the Apostle Paul joyfully declares in today’s meditation verse: "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death." Let us surrender ourselves to Him so that we too may enter into this experience and receive freedom from the legalism of commandments.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1984

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

"It was for this He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." — 2 Thessalonians 2:14

No father or mother desires for their children to become lesser than themselves. They always wish for their children to become like them, or they labour so that their children might reach even greater heights than they did. For example, parents in the medical profession naturally desire for their children to become doctors and actively work toward that goal.

When parents labour for their children and see them excel beyond themselves, doesn't it bring them deep joy? In recent times, we sometimes read news headlines such as: "Auto-rickshaw driver's daughter becomes District Collector" or "Hotel worker's son becomes an I.P.S. officer." Imagine how much joy fills the hearts of those parents at that moment! Yes, dear ones, our Lord Jesus Christ likewise desires to rejoice over us in this manner.

This is precisely what we read in today’s meditation verse: "He called you that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." We are called to live like our Lord Jesus Christ and share in the very glory He received from the Father.

In Scripture, we read how our Lord Jesus Christ prayed to the Father for this very purpose during His time on earth:

"The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one." — John 17:22

For someone to become a doctor or an I.A.S. / I.P.S. officer, diligent study and hard work are essential. Similarly, regarding what we must do to gain the glory of Christ, today’s meditation verse tells us: "It was for this He called you through our gospel to that salvation." That is to say, when we obey the truths of the Gospel and enter into the experience of salvation, we take our first step in preparation. As we grow in that experience, we are transformed from glory to glory to become like Christ.

This is why the proclamation of the Gospel is considered paramount. Paul highlights this by saying, "through our gospel"—meaning, through the Gospel that we preach. The written Gospel must be proclaimed so that it may reach many.

Yes, dear ones, He has called us to that salvation through our Gospel so that many may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Proclaiming the Gospel is not merely delivering God's Word to people verbally; we can also proclaim Him through our lives. A witness-bearing life is the highest form of Gospel proclamation. For that to happen, Christ must first dwell within us.

Let us confess our sins to Him and welcome Him into our lives. Then, our lives will be transformed, and our faithful witness will bring many to Christ.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1984

July 15, Wednesday, 2026

“Do not fear, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel; I will help you,” declares the Lord, “and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.” — Isaiah 41:14 (NASB)

In the face of this world's pomp, luxury, and prosperity, God’s spiritual people are like tiny worms. Furthermore, those living with a genuine spiritual experience are very few in number. It is to them that today’s meditation verse speaks, saying, “Do not fear, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel.”

We do not need to fear just because we feel insignificant like a worm or small in number. The reason is that the God who created and rules the entire universe is with us. Therefore, just as the saying goes, "Even if a mustard seed is small, its spiciness does not diminish," the spiritual vitality of God’s people does not diminish. We add only a small amount of salt to the food we eat, but it is what gives flavour to the whole meal. Even if we are few in number like salt, the world can find flavour through us.

God did not choose us because we were mighty or numerous; He chose us by His grace.

“For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for His own possession out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. The Lord did not make you His beloved nor choose you because you were more numerous than any of the peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples.” — Deuteronomy 7:6–7 (NASB)

Yes, God looked upon our humble condition and chose us. Therefore, He will never forsake us.

God can accomplish anything—whether through many or through few. When sending Gideon against the Midianites, God allowed him to take only 300 men. Gideon hesitated and asked how he could save Israel.

But the Lord said to him, “I will certainly be with you, and you will defeat Midian as one man.” — Judges 6:16 (NASB)

In the same way, the Lord was with Gideon and enabled him to defeat Midian.

Today, you might be troubled thinking about many such things. You may wonder, "My income is so small, how will I run my family? How can I give my children a good education?" Or you might be bewildered, thinking, "My body is weakened by illness and I am unable to work; how will I live in this world?" You may be suffering under thoughts of how to repay your debts or worrying that you do not own a house. To you, He says:

“Do not fear, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel; I will help you,” declares the Lord, “and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.” — Isaiah 41:14 (NASB)

Yes, beloved, the God who sustained the poor widow during the famine through Elijah—ensuring her jar of flour and jug of oil did not run dry—and the God who turned simple water into fine wine, can perform any miracle in the lives of us who seem small like a worm or few like a little remnant of Israel.

When we hold fast to our Lord Jesus Christ, He will not forsake us nor let us be put to shame. He is able to guide us through every kind of lack. Instead of worrying about our shortcomings, let us look to Him who turns our lack into abundance.

“For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand, Who says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you.’” — Isaiah 41:13 (NASB)

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1985

Thursday, July 16, 2026

"To whom then will you compare Me that I would be his equal?” says the Holy One. — Isaiah 40:25

We cannot compare God to anyone or identify Him with anything. That is why He gave as the first commandment:

"You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth." — Exodus 20:3–4

Notice that today’s meditation verse does not simply state "God says," but rather, "says the Holy One." In other words, another name for our God is "The Holy One." There may be various gods in this world, and they may be called by many names, but our God alone is called the Holy One. This name fits no other deity.

Indeed, there may be many so-called gods and lords in the world. But for us, there is only one God, the Holy One. He is the One who created us. Scripture tells us:

"For even if there are so-called gods whether in heaven or on earth, as indeed there are many gods and many lords, yet for us there is only one God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we exist for Him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we exist through Him." — 1 Corinthians 8:5–6

In some religions, deities are categorized—one for knowledge, one for power, and another for bestowing wealth. But our God is able to grant all things. Furthermore, He is the One who sanctifies us. As it is written:

"For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him." — Colossians 1:16

Moreover, our strength and greatest privilege lie in the fact that this glorious God is always ready to listen to our voice. This is why Moses asked:

"For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the LORD our God whenever we call on Him?" — Deuteronomy 4:7

Yes, dear ones, the God who is holy, almighty, and exalted above the heavens is our God.

"For it was fitting for us to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens." — Hebrews 7:26

Since this is who He is, to whom can we compare Him? Who can be made equal to Him? That is why Scripture emphasizes that we should give no priority or worship to anyone or anything in this world other than Him.

Let us listen to God’s voice and live giving worship to Him alone. Only then can we live as His people and rejoice in His true blessings.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1986

Friday, July 17, 2026

"Therefore, from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer." — 2 Corinthians 5:16

Human perspectives vary. But everyone tries to prove that their own view is the correct one. This is precisely why so many conflicts of opinion arise among people in the world. How we know someone or something depends entirely on how we look at them. However, there is one truly correct perspective for everything—and those who come to know it are the conquerors.

Today's meditation verse admonishes us to possess a higher, spiritual perspective. Christ was called the Son of David; He was known as the son of Mary and Joseph. This was the human perspective regarding Christ. But Paul says that even if we once knew Christ in this manner, we know Him so no longer. Instead, we know Him as the Son of God.

In the world's view, He was just a man. Yet we read:

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him." — Colossians 1:15–16

Similarly, today's verse states, "Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh." That is to say, every human being we see in this world was created in the image of God. As it is written:

"God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." — Genesis 1:27

This is why the Apostle Paul teaches that if we have come to know Christ, we will no longer view the people He created merely as human beings, but will instead see Christ within them.

Yes, beloved, only when we first begin to view Christ as the Son of God can we see others as made in the image of Christ. Christ is not merely the son of David, nor did He desire to be described that way. He asked the Jews concerning Himself: How could He be David’s son?

"Therefore, if David calls Him 'Lord,' how is He his son?" No one was able to answer Him a word, nor did anyone dare from that day on to ask Him another question. — Matthew 22:45–46

It is essential that our perspective of Christ changes. When we shift our view of Him from being merely the son of David or the son of Mary and Joseph, and instead behold Him as "the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation," our spiritual lives will be transformed. Only then will we be able to see others as those created in God’s image.

To that end, let us firmly declare: "Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer," and let us view Him solely as the Son of God.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1987

July 18, Saturday 2026

"For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore, also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us." — 2 Corinthians 1:20

To win elections, politicians make various promises to the people. Many of these are completely impossible to fulfil. Yet, they try to capture power by giving false assurances to the public. Whether they will actually fulfil these promises after winning remains a massive question mark.

The reason is that these politicians do not speak from their hearts. Their only selfish intent is to somehow capture the minds of the people, secure their votes, and come to power. But our God has no need to deceive people to sustain Himself. In reality, it is we, as human beings, who live unfaithfully toward Him. Indeed, Scripture reminds us:

"If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." — 2 Timothy 2:13

In today’s meditation verse, we read that "to the glory of God, all the promises of God are 'Yes' in Christ Jesus." This means that God is glorified through us when His promises are fulfilled. While a politician who gives false promises faces shame, the God who fulfils His promises is glorified by us.

Furthermore, even if people in this world genuinely intend to keep the promises they make, there are times when they are simply unable to do so. This is because their life circumstances can suddenly change. But God is not like that. He is the One who changes times and seasons. He is the One who calls into being that which does not exist. Under any circumstance, He remains fully capable of fulfilling what He has promised. Regarding Abraham, we read:

"and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform." — Romans 4:21

Yes, dearly beloved, there are thousands of God's promises in the Bible. Some of these were given by God to specific individuals at specific times; other promises are given to everyone who believes in and accepts Christ. Furthermore, there are moments when God personally speaks into our lives and gives us specific promises. We do not need to doubt such promises; they will surely be fulfilled for us.

We can confidently and faithfully declare, "My God has promised this to me, and He will surely fulfil it in my life." That is why the author of Hebrews encourages us:

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;" — Hebrews 10:23

Not a single promise in the Bible is a vain word or a deception. They are the words of the living God. Therefore, they will surely come to pass. All His promises are Yes in Jesus Christ, and through Him, Amen.

"AATAVAN" Meditation – 1989

July 19, Sunday, 2026

"My eyes are continually toward the Lord, for He will pluck my feet out of the net." — Psalm 25:15 (NASB)

Hunters lay nets to catch birds. Not only that, but they also scatter grain inside those nets to attract and lure the birds in. The birds, seeking food, end up getting trapped inside the net. David, who was a shepherd, observed hunters doing this in the wild and compared it to spiritual realities. In that firm assurance, he declared, "He will pluck my feet out of the net."

Similarly, in modern times, many nations and rebels try to protect themselves by burying landmines in the ground to destroy their enemies.

Yes, dear ones, in the very same way, Satan attempts to allure and destroy our souls. He is the hunter who spreads nets to lure souls in and destroy them. But if our eyes are continually fixed on the Lord, He will free our feet from these nets. As we read in God's Word:

"I will say to the Lord, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!' For it is He who rescues you from the net of the trapper and from the deadly pestilence." — Psalm 91:2–3 (NASB)

To escape these nets and landmines, we do not need to walk bowed down, staring at the ground. God has anointed us as kings. Therefore, it is enough for us to walk with our heads lifted up, looking to God. When we walk this way, He Himself will keep our feet free from the net.

Satan does not always try to destroy us directly. He may incite people against us, present alluring worldly traps to make us see and commit soul-destroying sins, entangle us in unnecessary troubles, bring severe destruction upon us, or afflict us with sicknesses to separate us from God. Whatever kind of snare it may be, if our eyes are kept on God, we will be delivered from it.

Job stands as a great example for us in this regard. When he faced various forms of destruction in his life, even his own wife rejected him. Even when she spoke as if telling him to "curse God and die," Job did not take his gaze off the Lord. We read:

"But he said to her, 'You are speaking as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we actually accept good from God but not accept adversity?' In all this Job did not sin with his lips." — Job 2:10 (NASB)

Yes, dear ones! Because Job kept his eyes fixed on God, the Lord delivered his feet from the nets of Satan and preserved him.

Even as you read this, you may feel trapped in some kind of net. Or Satan may have secretly laid a snare for you through other people without your knowledge. Whatever the situation may be, if we resolve to keep our eyes continually fixed on the Lord, He Himself will pluck our feet out of the net.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1990

July 20, Monday, 2026

"Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary." — Galatians 6:9

Some people always boast about their good deeds, justify themselves, and blame God. An elderly sister I know used to lament to me every time I saw her, saying: "I do so many good things—I help the poor, and I assist with the education of a few children. Yet, nothing good seems to happen in my life. The Lord doesn't even look up at me."

I noticed two mistakes in her attitude:

1. Expectation of Return: The mindset that doing good to others will automatically ensure good things happen to us. When we do good to others, it is essential that we do so without expecting anything in return. This sister lacked that quality. She viewed doing good like investing money in a bank, expecting returns, and ended up disappointed.
2. Expecting Immediate Results: She believed that doing good to others meant immediate blessings for herself. However, we do not read this in Scripture. Our Lord Jesus Christ went about doing good, yet the earthly reward He received was death on a cross.

Today’s meditation verse urges us not to lose heart in doing good. Furthermore, it promises that if we do not grow weary and continue doing good, we will reap at the proper time.

We do not know when this "proper time" is. As we read:

"There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven." — Ecclesiastes 3:1

Furthermore, it is written:

"He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end." — Ecclesiastes 3:11

Therefore, it is necessary that we do not grow weary in doing good.

If we cultivate a crop in a field, we water it daily, apply fertilizer, remove weeds, loosen the soil around the base, and use pesticides to protect it from pests. Doing all this is like doing good. However, we do not get the harvest immediately; we must wait until the proper time arrives. Even so, sometimes before farmers can reap the harvest, their crops are destroyed by natural disasters.

Yet, when their cultivated paddy or banana crops are destroyed, those farmers do not lose heart. They plant again and eventually succeed.

Yes, dear ones, our doing good is much like Indian farmers battling the seasons—as the phrase goes, "Indian agriculture is a gamble with the monsoon." Like these farmers, let us who live a spiritual life not lose heart in doing good; if we do not grow weary, we will reap in due time.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1991

July 21, Tuesday, 2026

"For he [Hezekiah] clung to the Lord; he did not depart from following Him, but kept His commandments, which the Lord had commanded Moses. And the Lord was with him; wherever he went he prospered. And he rebelled against the king of Assyria and did not serve him." (2 Kings 18:6-7)

In today's meditation, we are going to reflect on how the Lord will fight for us if we have unshakeable faith and love toward Him.

Today's meditation verse speaks about Hezekiah, the king of Judah. We know that when Hezekiah was afflicted with a fatal boil and was at the point of death, he prayed to the Lord with tears and received an extension of 15 years to his lifespan. The reason for this was the trust he had in the Lord. Indeed, it is written: "He trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel; so that after him there was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor among those who were before him." (2 Kings 18:5).

Because he refused to serve Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, and rejected his authority, the king sent his commander, Rabshakeh, to Hezekiah. But Hezekiah did not bow down. Finally, the king sent a warning letter to Hezekiah. Even then, Hezekiah did not fear; instead of trying to fight back against him, he went straight to the feet of the Lord, spread the letter out, and prayed. Even in that tight, critical hour, Hezekiah did not panic, believing that the Lord would help him.

Yes, dearly beloved, God answered Hezekiah's prayer immediately that day and sent an angel. We read: "Then it happened that night that the angel of the Lord went out and struck 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians; and when men rose early in the morning, behold, all of them were dead bodies." (2 Kings 19:35).

Not only that, God caused Sennacherib, the king of Assyria who had come against Hezekiah, to be destroyed by his very own sons. We read: "It came about as he was worshiping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer killed him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Ararat. And Esarhaddon his son became king in his place." (2 Kings 19:37).

Just as it is said, "The Lord will fight for you while you keep silent" (Exodus 14:14), if we possess unshakeable faith and love toward the Lord, we do not need to fight against our enemies or struggle against our problems. The Lord Himself will fight for us. We shall keep silent.

Let us pray that we develop such love and faith toward the Lord. Let us trust Him completely. Just as we read in today's meditation verse—"And the Lord was with him; wherever he went he prospered"—the Lord is powerful enough to do the same for us today.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1992

July 22, Wednesday, 2026

"For the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted perish forever." — Psalm 9:18

There is a famous verse in Moothurai, written by the ancient Tamil poetess Avvaiyar, that says: "Like the birds of a dried-up pond..." When the water in a pond dries up, fish are no longer available for the birds. Consequently, the birds that lived by the pond for so long forget it and fly away the moment the water vanishes.

Similarly, when we live in wealth and prosperity, people and relatives will surround us. But if the seasons of life change and poverty strikes, those who once praised us and stayed close will distance themselves. This is the way of the world. It was in this exact manner that Job was rejected by his friends, relatives, and even his own wife. However, our God is not like that. He never forgets the needy, nor does He ever forsake the afflicted.

In the Gospel of Mark, we read about a man named Bartimaeus. He was someone who lived his life sitting by the roadside and begging, because he was blind in both eyes. We have likely seen many such beggars in our own lives, and we know how little regard people have for them. Yes, he was a poor man, utterly neglected by society.

One day, the Lord Jesus Christ was passing that way.

"When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out and say, 'Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!' Many were sternly telling him to be quiet, but he kept crying out all the more, 'Son of David, have mercy on me!'" — Mark 10:47-48

What would we do if a beggar sitting by the street started shouting like this when a famous person was passing by? The people there did the exact same thing. They sternly warned him and told him to keep quiet.

However, true to the scripture, "For the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted perish forever," the Lord Jesus Christ heard his cry. He commanded that the man be brought to Him. When the people around told Bartimaeus this:

"Throwing aside his cloak, he jumped up and came to Jesus." — Mark 10:50

Yes, beloved, this reveals his faith to us. He possessed an inner conviction: "Jesus has called me, so He will perform a miracle for me. I no longer need this old cloak or this begging bowl." Therefore, he threw them aside and came to Jesus Christ. According to his faith, the Lord Jesus Christ restored his sight.

Perhaps today, your life feels like that of the blind Bartimaeus. You might be followed by poverty, a sense of hopelessness regarding the future, or a dark blindness toward what lies ahead. You might feel like this neglected, poor man. But beloved, those who walked with Christ that day in prosperity and grandeur did not taste the miracle in their lives. It was this marginalized, needy man who truly beheld both the world and the Savior in his life.

Therefore, hold fast to God with unwavering faith. The needy will never be forgotten; the hope of the afflicted will never perish; and the Word of God never fails.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1993

July 23, Thursday 2026

"...and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ. Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased; for they were laid low in the wilderness." (1 Corinthians 10:4, 5)

God led the people of Israel toward Canaan through Moses. He sustained them in the wilderness by providing food and water. When the people cried out to Moses due to thirst, Moses brought their grievance before God. God then provided water through Moses from a rock for them to drink. Paul states that the One who accompanied the people of Israel, the One who gave them water from the rock, and the rock itself, was Christ.

However, today's meditation verse says, "Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased; for they were laid low in the wilderness." Yes, dearly beloved, this has been written as a warning for us today. It means that we may be people who know Christ today and lead a spiritual life with Him. Yet, Paul warns that if the sin of covetousness/evil desire resides within us, we will perish just like those people of Israel.

The final commandment of the Ten Commandments is "You shall not covet." However, many of us do not consider this a major sin. Covetousness refers to the greed for material things. Furthermore, longing for the objects and possessions that belong to others is covetousness. It is written:

"You shall not covet your neighbour’s house; you shall not covet your neighbour’s wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbour." (Exodus 20:17)

Even though Christ accompanied the people of Israel and gave them water to drink and manna to eat, they coveted meat and sought after it. Although God gave them the meat they craved, He destroyed them in the wilderness. We read:

"While the meat was still between their teeth, before it was chewed, the anger of the Lord was kindled against the people, and the Lord struck the people with a very severe plague. So, the name of that place was called Kibroth-hattaavah, because there they buried the people who had been greedy." (Numbers 11:33, 34)

Yes, dearly beloved, Paul says, "Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved." (1 Corinthians 10:6). We may know Christ today, but if we are unable to give up the greed of covetousness, we have no right to call ourselves spiritual people.

Overcoming covetousness is the victory of a spiritual life. That is why the Apostle James warns us, saying:

"But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death." (James 1:14, 15)

Just as the people of Israel drank the water provided by Christ—the spiritual rock that followed them—and yet God was not well-pleased with most of them, God will not be well-pleased with us either if covetousness remains in us, despite our claims of believing in Christ. Therefore, let us first plead with God for the strength to overcome this sin.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1994

July 24, Friday2026

“Your oils have a pleasing fragrance, Your name is like purified oil; Therefore, the maidens love you.” — Song of Solomon 1:3

The name of our Lord Jesus Christ carries a fragrance far sweeter than any perfumed oil. Indeed, its scent continues to spread across the entire world to all people today, even after two thousand years.

Today’s meditation verse says, “Therefore the maidens love you.” That is to say, guiltless people, like pure maidens redeemed by the Lord, love Him. Moreover, those who possess a true, heartfelt desire to overcome sin also perceive His divine fragrance.

The Apostle Paul expresses this very truth:

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us reveals the fragrance of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing;” — 2 Corinthians 2:14–15

This fragrance of Christ first leads us to triumph. Furthermore, through us, it diffuses a scent so that others may come to know Him. When someone enters a room wearing an expensive perfume, doesn't it cause everyone to turn and look? In the same way, if the fragrance of Christ rests upon us, it identifies us to those around us.

Back then, when Mary anointed the feet of Jesus Christ with precious nard, the entire house was filled with its fragrance, bringing joy to all. We read of this event:

“Mary then took a pound of very expensive perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” — John 12:3

Like Mary, we too proclaim the fragrance of Christ to the world.

However, those with a mindset like Judas do not appreciate this fragrance. Because he had the heart of a thief, it is written:

“Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the proceeds given to poor people?” Now he said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to pilfer what was put into it. — John 12:5–6

Yes, dear beloved, to the wicked and those who are perishing—like Judas—the fragrance of Christ feels like an aroma of death; they simply cannot tolerate it. Therefore, as we proclaim Christ, we are:

“to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life.” — 2 Corinthians 2:16a

As today’s meditation verse states, the name of Christ is like purified oil poured forth; therefore, the pure and guileless love Him. If we truly love Him, it signifies that we too are pure, holy maidens. If not, it means we are like Judas, who perceived His scent as the aroma of death.

 

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1995

July 25, Saturday 2026

"And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing,"— 2 Corinthians 4:3

Anyone can read the Bible. However, not everyone can easily understand the spiritual, true meaning of the message it holds. It is fully understood only by those who seek the truth with a child-like heart.

Those studying in theological seminaries and various researchers look at the Gospel through an analytical lens. Different Christian denominations interpret Scripture based on their own denominational doctrines. But the truth is this: no one can come to know God merely through intellect or study. God reveals various truths to those who walk in humility, whose sins are forgiven, and who live with the heart of a child.

It is regarding this that we read Jesus saying:

"At that very time He rejoiced greatly in the Holy Spirit, and said, 'I praise You, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight.'" — Luke 10:21

It is essential that we approach the Bible with a one-hundred-percent perspective of faith. Inserting our own interpretations into passages we do not understand, or blindly relying on the explanations written by researchers who studied the Bible before us, may not always be entirely right. We must be eager and earnest for the Author of the Bible—the Holy Spirit—to make these truths clear to us. If we try to understand the verses without this foundation, we are no different from unbelievers.

If we fail to cling to the Spirit of God in this way, Satan, the ruler of this world, will blind the eyes of our minds. Yes, as it is written:

"in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." — 2 Corinthians 4:4

We will become blind and unable to perceive the truth.

Yes, beloved, none of us knows everything completely. Therefore, even if we seek out God's ministers to fully understand the Gospel that seems veiled to us, we should not conclude that everything they say is absolute truth. Instead, we must pray, "Lord, grant me understanding of Your truth." For in these times, the words of the Gospel are often twisted for personal gain, and different Christian denominations offer conflicting interpretations for the very same verse.

No word of God is intended to remain a hidden mystery. God has not written anything in a way that His children cannot understand. As Paul says, if our Gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. Nothing will remain hidden from God's children who desire to live. Therefore, let us read the Bible with the help of the Holy Spirit. He Himself will guide us into all truth.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1996

July 26, Sunday, 2026

"But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless." — Titus 3:9

Today, among Christians who believe in Christ and have accepted Him as their Savior, there are numerous divisions. Throughout the world, there are over 2,000 Christian denominations. Besides these, there are many small independent churches. However, they remain divided over minor differences in opinion among themselves.

To justify these divisions, they argue over truths found in the Bible. They debate about the birth of Christ, His lineage, His mother, His father, and the Law—claiming that only their understanding is the truth. Consequently, they look down upon other denominations, viewing them as inferior and despising them.

The Apostle Paul calls these "foolish controversies." We must avoid such strife and disputes because they are unprofitable and worthless. Arguing in this manner does not make us acceptable to God.

What we should speak about is solely how the Lord Jesus Christ suffered for us, redeemed us, and made us His own. That is, we should speak only about the redeeming power of Christ. Paul highlights this very point to his disciple Titus:

"who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you." — Titus 2:14–15

Instead of engaging in arguments, we must speak the Gospel of Christ with authority and reproof. If anyone engages in unnecessary disputes with us regarding the aforementioned matters, we should not argue back. Instead, we must boldly and authoritatively tell them: "First, confess your sins to Christ and receive forgiveness; do not talk needlessly and argue." This is why the Apostle Paul instructs, "reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you."

Yes, beloved friends, let us not get involved in disputes and fights over unnecessary matters. Instead, let us point them to the redeeming power of Christ as our response. Many who love to argue will back away when they hear the words "sin" and "salvation," because for many nominal Christians who engage in unnecessary debates, these topics are like an allergy.

Regarding those who argue about biblical truths, the Apostle Paul speaks clearly and warns us as well: "He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself." — 1 Timothy 6:4–5 (KJV)

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1997

July 27, Monday, 2026

"He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay." (Psalm 18:17, 18)

Today’s verse for meditation comes from the book of Psalms written by King David. This psalm is noted as the song David sang when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.

Many rose up against David. They attempted in every way to destroy him. Saul, filled completely with jealousy, tried to do away with David. In various situations, David was just a few steps away from death. But the Lord was David’s support and stay; He saved him. In deep gratitude, David proclaims: "He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay."

Dearly beloved, throughout the Bible, we can see that it is filled with accounts of the Lord delivering His servants. He never forsakes those who trust and act upon Him with steadfast faith. Back then, before inheriting Canaan, Moses sent chosen men—one from each tribe of the children of Israel—to spy out the land and bring back a report. They went and returned after forty days. However, the words they spoke upon their return were words of unbelief:

"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. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight." (Numbers 13:32, 33)

However, Caleb and Joshua, who had gone with them, encouraged the people of Israel. They declared that the Lord was with them, so there was no need to fear those people. Yes:

"Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not." (Numbers 14:9)

Just as they believed, the Lord subdued many kings and brought the people of Israel into Canaan.

Just as those Israelites said, "all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature" and spoke of "giants," we too often tremble in fear when looking at the problems standing against us. Instead, let us learn to declare our faith like David: “He will deliver me from my strong enemies and from those who hate me, though they are stronger than I. They confront me in the day of my calamity, but the Lord will be my stay.”

Let us look unto God, who is greater and more powerful than all, and hold fast to Him with firm faith. There is no need to fear pressing problems or afflictions. The Lord will surely be our stay and support.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation - 1998

July 28, Tuesday 2026

"The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!" (Matthew 6:22, 23)

In today's meditation verse, the Lord Jesus Christ speaks about the spiritual vision of human beings. The eye is an essential organ in our body. Only if our vision is clear can we see the world, enjoy its beauty, and above all, walk without stumbling.

In the same way, if our spiritual eye is unable to see and becomes evil, our entire body will be filled with the darkness of sin. If the spiritual light within us is darkness, how great is that darkness! says Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ desired to bring clarity to the people by explaining many spiritual truths through simple parables. But the people did not accept them. Therefore, looking at the Jews who failed to perceive Him and His teachings, He said:

"For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." (Matthew 13:15)

That is, He explained that the reason human spiritual vision is deficient—leaving them unable to know Christ and the truths He spoke—is because their hearts have waxed gross (grown dull/callous). We can also read this passage in Acts 28:27.

Yes, beloved ones, if our heart becomes gross through worldly desires and lusts, we will not be able to see or hear anything clearly. Because human hearts have grown dull like this, many are unable to clearly understand spiritual truths. This is why many fail to realize that Christ alone is our everything, and that we must rely solely on Him.

If we experience a decline in our physical vision, we immediately go to an eye hospital, get a vision test, and undergo medical treatment to restore clear sight. In the same way, it is necessary for us to make an effort to correct our spiritual vision defects as well.

However, the problem today is that many do not even realize their defect in vision, nor do they accept it. The Jews of that day were just like this. Therefore,

"Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, we see; therefore, your sin remaineth." (John 9:41)

Yes, beloved ones, if we acknowledge that we are blind, we will not be judged, and Christ will reveal Himself to us. But if we say, "We are not blind, we have good sight," while living without truly knowing Him, our sin remains.

Let us be clear concerning our spiritual vision. Let us examine how we have known Him. If our spiritual vision concerning Christ is clear, our whole body will be filled with light, free from the stain of sin. But if our vision of Christ diminishes and our spiritual eye becomes evil, our entire body will be in the darkness of sin.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 1999

July 29, Wednesday, 2026

"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:" — John 1:12

We have read today’s meditation verse, spoken by the Apostle John, many times. However, for many of us, this verse remains merely words. Only when we put it into practice can we experience the truth of this verse in our lives.

All Christians are believers in Christ. But the question is whether everyone is a child of God according to what this verse says. Those who participate in church services and those who attend prayer meetings are all people who believe in the name of Christ. But is everyone a child of God?

The Bible says:

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." — Hebrews 11:1

That is to say, if we believe in something, it is necessary to stand firm in that faith. Expecting something from God, making supplications for it, and going to church solely for that purpose cannot be called complete faith in God. According to today’s verse, God has not given power to all who go in such a manner to become the children of God.

A spiritual person who has faith in God will seek to possess Him alone in life. Furthermore, such a person will forget their self-will and yield themselves to the will of God and the guidance of His Spirit. It is regarding this that the Apostle Paul says:

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." — Romans 8:14

Carrying a hundred percent worldly desires and worldly needs in one's heart, coming to church, clapping hands, and singing is not truly seeking God. Living in conformity with the world all through life and then singing songs and shouting under the name of worship for a few hours is not seeking God. Such actions are not faith in His name as spoken of in today’s verse; doing this does not mean we have received Him.

In Israel, a teacher named Nicodemus was just like this. However, like most Christian people today, he had faith in Jesus Christ. Because he feared the Jews, he came seeking Jesus Christ at night.

"The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." — John 3:2–3

Yes, dearly beloved, having faith in Jesus Christ and seeking Him out is not enough. As Jesus Christ points out, we must be born again. We must die to sin and live unto righteousness. We must yield ourselves completely to Christ and receive the forgiveness of sins. Only then can we become His children. To all who have received forgiveness of sins, believed on His name, and received Him, God has given power to become the children of God. Let us make every effort today to receive this power.

"AATHAVAN" Meditation – 2000

July 30, Thursday, 2026

"For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." — 1 Timothy 4:8

Through physical effort, many people accomplish various remarkable things in this world. They participate in sports and physical competitions, winning prizes and medals. The world praises and honours them. However, such bodily exercises are capable of yielding only a small benefit.

Similarly, we see many in this world attempting to receive God’s blessings through various strenuous physical efforts. But today’s meditation verse tells us that such bodily exercise profits very little. Even if we make ourselves acceptable to the world through self-afflicting physical acts, we do not thereby become acceptable to God.

It is essential that we move away from mere bodily effort and turn our hearts toward God. Such godliness is profitable for all things, as it holds value both for this life and the life to come. First and foremost, Christ coming into us is what matters, not our physical exertions. This is because when Christ enters into us, we die to sin and live unto righteousness.

"And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness." — Romans 8:10

This is the ultimate victory.

Through physical effort, we may perhaps appear superior and devout in the eyes of men. However, purely body-centric efforts—such as fasting and other acts of self-mortification—are not what draw God toward us. As today’s scripture reminds us, bodily exercise profiteth little; it is useful mainly for the care of the physical body.

Some attempt to gain God’s love through extreme fasting. Fasting without turning our hearts toward God is unnecessary.

"But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse." — 1 Corinthians 8:8

Godliness is profitable unto all things because it holds promise for both this present life and the life to come. Therefore, instead of prioritizing physical exertions, we must engage in things pertaining to godliness. That is, we must earnestly desire God's Spirit to dwell within us and engage in pursuits that foster His presence.

For the Apostle Paul says:

"But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." — Romans 8:11

Yes, beloved, let us not mistake physical efforts done for God as divine righteousness. Instead, let us devote ourselves to spiritual efforts rooted in godliness. Only then can we truly belong to Christ.

"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." — Romans 8:9

When the Spirit of Christ comes into us, that alone will be profitable unto all things—both for this present life and the life to come. Therefore, let us move beyond mere physical exertions and yearn to receive the Holy Spirit, engaging ourselves in acts of true godliness.

Meditation – 2001

"AATHAVAN"

July 31, Friday 2026

"O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles." (Psalm 43:3)

Our Lord Jesus Christ said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." Yet, around 750 years before the birth of Christ, true believers had already caught a glimpse of this. Yes, the light, the way, and the truth that the Old Testament Jews prayed for—without fully knowing Him—was none other than the Lord Jesus Christ. While He was in the world, He stated this to them clearly and plainly:

"I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." (John 8:12)

"I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)

Yes, beloved, God the Father sent the Lord Jesus Christ as an answer to the prayer of the Old Testament saint who cried out, "O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles." He alone can lead us directly to the holy heavenly Mount Zion.

Even though the people of the Old Testament prayed to the Lord, they did not have a clear understanding of Him as we do in the New Testament era. They viewed the Lord as a powerful force who embraces those who do good and punishes those who do evil. They looked upon Him with a measure of fear; that is, they lacked a clear understanding of God. Yet, they loved Him and prayed to Him.

It was Jesus Christ who taught us to call God "Abba, Father." Jesus is the One who gave us the revelation that God is not a distant stranger somewhere far off, but our own Father.

That is why Jesus said to the Samaritan woman:

"Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship..." (John 4:22)

Even today, there are people who worship light without knowing Him. Many worship lamps and the sun, assuming that since God is light, all light must be worshipped. But while God is light, the truth is that not all light is God.

Our God is not merely physical light. Concerning Him, we read:

"Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see..." (1 Timothy 6:16)

As today’s meditation reminds us, only the Lord Jesus Christ—the Way, the Truth, and the Life sent by God—can guide us and bring us to His holy Mount Zion and His heavenly dwelling places. Therefore, today, instead of praying, "O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me...", it is enough for us to follow Jesus Christ, the true Light, Way, and Truth who has already been sent to us.