REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, provide by Pastor Peter Yoon of Kairos Christian Church in San Diego, was first posted on October 16, 2016. Peter is a graduate of University of California, Riverside (BA) and Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.). 

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“God Is Better!”

John 20:30-31

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

I recently read a statement in a book that said, “The God who created you is better than the god you created.” I thought it was catchy. Definitely true! 

There are many topics that float around in our minds all day long; I’m certain that “God” is one of those topics.  But have you ever wondered how well-informed you are about who God really is? Do you ever wonder if any of our thoughts, opinions, and even conclusions about God are consistent to the Bible?

One common misconception has been mentioned by preachers in jest: “Please turn to Hezekiah 6:5 – God helps those who help themselves.” Of course, we know that there is no “Book of Hezekiah” in the Bible; nor does the Bible paint a picture of a God who only helps those who make efforts to help themselves. Perhaps, such thoughts and other views like it have found their way into our private theological systems. While they do not serve us in our faith, they can certainly impede our spiritual growth. 

The apostle John writes that he took the time to carefully author his gospel (inspired by the Holy Spirit) so that the readers may believe that Jesus is the Messiah and gain life in His name. John, along with the many disciples, had found life in recognizing Jesus as the Lamb of God, the Savior of the World. They discovered that everything he did and taught changed and transformed their perception of the reality: individuals were healed, families were restored, new communities lived according to a new set of values, and the gospel continued to extend to the nations. 

It is a remarkable statement to believe that faith in a man who walked the earth 2000 years ago would be the only source of true life for all people. But the testimonies of Jesus, as it has been faithfully preached and taught, continues to give life to people today. 

If you haven’t already done so, consider downloading an app on your phone that allows you to read God’s word throughout the year. Here’s my favorite: 

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/bible-in-one-year/id504133402?mt=8

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.multipie.bibleinoneyear&hl=en_GB

And may the words captured in our Bible guide you toward faith in Jesus that leads you to attain life that only He can impart: a meaningful life in the present and eternal life thereafter.    

Prayer: Lord, help me to discard the god I have made; instead, help me to worship and obey the God who created me. Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Proverbs 14-15