FBC Daily Devotions

Look over your notes from the past week. What one or two things did God impress upon you this week?

Read John 14:4-11.

The term “father” is used exclusive of God the Father, and to be honest, I am not aware of a clear instance when Jesus was called “father” (although possibly 2Cor. 1:3). Despite that, Jesus often made statements that showed His equivalency with the Father. The passage today is one such incident. Jesus makes others such as “I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30) He takes on the same authority as the Father (John 10:18). So while Jesus may not be referred to as the “Everlasting Father”, He certainly takes on the calling of the Father, and I suspect that one day the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit will take on much, much greater meaning when we live in eternity with Him/Them and Jesus will be seen as our Everlasting Father.

This particular title (Everlasting Father) likely denotes a contrast between our mortal fathers and our eternal Father. Our Everlasting Father is just that — everlasting. He will never fade away or become any less of a father. He will never give up that place in our lives. If you’ve ever lost a father, you know the pain associated with the loss of someone so significant. I imagine there is a feeling of being left on your own, that the one that you could depend on to be there for you is now gone. And though that may not be your experience, the loss is regardless a difficult one. Our heavenly Father is everlasting. And we will never be alone. He will always be there because He is eternal.

To consider: Have you ever looked at Jesus as your Everlasting Father? He cares for you as a father. He helps you as a father should. He guides you and sustains you as a father should a child. Has there been a time in your life when He has been like a father to you? Have you ever felt forsaken? In those times, remember He is our Everlasting Father. (Note: The famous “footprints” poem comes to mind here. You can find it here: http://www.barefootsworld.net/footprints.html if interested.)

The prophet says Jesus would be called “Mighty God.” When was Jesus ever called “Mighty God”?  

Perhaps Thomas (remember “doubting Thomas”), who when he saw the resurrected Jesus, exclaimed, “My Lord and My God!” (John 20:28). Or maybe the Apostle Paul who said Jesus was supreme over the universe, having all the fullness of God (Col. 1:19). Or perhaps Philip who wanted to see the Father, and to whom Jesus replied, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father.”? (John 14:9) All of these came to a point of seeing the Mighty God in Jesus Christ. But perhaps the ones who were moved most were those who experienced the power of God personally. Consider the blind men who couldn’t contain themselves in Matthew 9:27-34. Go ahead, take a minute and read the account.

Scenes like this happened often in Jesus’ ministry. Likewise, there were those who would not believe that Jesus’ power came from the Mighty God in heaven. In the same passage what do you note of the response by the Pharisees? Why do you think they responded this way?

While there are people today who do not/will not believe Jesus as the Mighty God, one day, the Bible says, everyone will bow down and admit that indeed, Jesus Christ is Lord. (Phil. 2:11)

To consider: Do you know Jesus as the Mighty God? When have you experienced his power in such a way that you could not help but react as the blind men did? Take a moment and consider the mighty power of God, and pray that He might reveal that power in specific areas of your life.

Read Luke 2:8-15.

Jesus is called the Prince of Peace. We know from the Scriptures that the ultimate peace Christ has for us is found in a peaceful relationship with God. That peace came only through the sacrifice of Christ who satisfied God’s justice for a sinful mankind. That’s not often what we think of when it comes to a “prince” of peace. The title “prince” denotes power and authority, dignity and grace. For Jesus to become this Prince of Peace gives us a different perspective.  A prince is usually seen as someone who will rule over a people or nation – a prince of a people.  Jesus redefines the world’s view of a prince, and becomes not a prince of a state of people, but a state of being.  And He rules by taking upon Himself the necessary actions to give us peace with God. Jesus uses His power and authority not to merely prop Himself up as a ruler over the nations, but as the one who “takes the hit” in order to enable us to live peaceful lives. If we want peace in our lives, then we must fall under the rule of the One who rules peace. Ultimately there will peace for all of His children in the physical realm as well. It will be at that time that the Prince of Peace will be seen in His totality not as a prince, but as a King.

To consider: Is Jesus your Prince of Peace? When the world struggles to find peace, you have the answer in your heart, where Christ dwells through His Spirit. Two things to think about when pondering Christ as your peace-giver: (1) Where do you go first when your heart is in turmoil? Christ is and will always be your Prince of Peace. Go to Him:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, nor let it be fearful. (John 14:27)

…casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you. (1Peter 5:7)

(2) Are there those in your midst who need Christ as their Prince of Peace? Come alongside those who are struggling to find peace in this world, and share the peace of Christ with them.

Read  Matthew 7:28-29.

When one thinks of a counselor, thoughts of a one-on-one conversation with someone, or good advice, or someone who will listen well come to mind. Everyone needs someone like that. Have you ever thought of Jesus Christ as a wonderful counselor? Have you ever taken time to ask Him for advice? Here’s something no one can deny: there is no better, no wiser, no more available counselor than Jesus Christ.

His ministry is full of wise counsel. The parables of the kingdom, the heart attitude in His Sermon on the Mount, His prayers, and really his entire life is wise counsel for us. If you have ever needed wise counsel, consider reading more and learning more about Jesus Christ. Spend time in the gospels. His life and teaching are more than wise words. They are wise counsel for living.

To consider: When is the last time you read through one of the gospels? Take time this week or month to read through a few of the gospels. Get to know this Wonderful Counselor!