August 17, 2016: SOAP #2449:  Jeremiah 23-25; John 19 

Scripture:  John (NIV) 19:16 Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus.

Observation:   They took charge of Jesus, but were they really in charge?  In this very chapter, four prophetic words are fulfilled.  Obviously, they were not in charge.  They were merely fulfilling prophecies from the book of Psalms and Zechariah (those mentioned in John 19.)

Application:   Jesus was in the perfect center of His Father’s will, yet he was enduring great suffering.  Suffering is not always an indicator that I am out of God’s will.   Hardship and suffering provide unique opportunities to demonstrate the level of my commitment to Jesus.   Sometimes those causing my greatest troubles have been put in their place by my Heavenly Father who is wanting me to grow deeper in my commitment and higher in my appreciation for His grand purpose.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, I trust you!  Your plan goes far beyond what I can see.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!