December 18, 2019: SOAP #3667:  John 2-4

Scripture:  John (NIV) 4:49 The royal official said, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” 50 Jesus replied, “You may go. Your son will live.” The man took Jesus at his word and departed. 51 While he was still on the way, his servants met him with the news that his boy was living. 52 When he enquired as to the time when his son got better, they said to him, “The fever left him yesterday at the seventh hour.” 53 Then the father realized that this was the exact time at which Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” So, he and all his household believed.

Observation:  I doubt if this royal official was present at the wedding in chapter 2, but he acted as though he had heard Mary’s word to the servants:  His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

Based only on the word of Jesus, the servants had filled the water pots with water than took some to the master of the banquet.  He proclaimed it to be the best wine of the banquet.

Based only on the word of Jesus, the royal official left Jesus to return home.

Application:   The sooner I step out and make a decision based only on the word of Jesus, the sooner I will see what Jesus can do.  But first of all, I need to hear His word to me.  My relationship needs to be where I can hear and recognize His voice.

By faithfully reading the Bible, I become familiar with His priorities and His ways.  As I read, I sense His presence and I hear His voice in my spirit.

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, continue to speak to me through the Bible.  Sharpen my hearing skills.  Fill my heart with faith and courage to do what you say. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!