Seeing is Believing
Series: The Gospel of John
January 20, 2025
Pastor Mike
In John chapter 9, we encounter a powerful story of physical and spiritual transformation. The healing of a man born blind serves as a profound metaphor for our own journey from spiritual darkness to light. As we delve into this narrative, we're challenged to examine our own spiritual sight. Are we, like the Pharisees, blinded by our preconceptions and rigid beliefs? Or are we open to seeing the miraculous work of God in unexpected ways? This passage reminds us that true sight goes beyond the physical – it's about recognizing Jesus as the source of all healing and truth. Just as the blind man's faith grew from seeing Jesus as a man, to a prophet, and finally as the Son of God, we too are invited to deepen our understanding and relationship with Christ. Let's reflect on how we might be spiritually blind in some areas of our lives and ask God to open our eyes to His transformative power.
Episode Notes
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the lesson
Day 1: Seeing with Spiritual Eyes
Reading: John 9:1-7
Devotional: Just as Jesus healed the man born blind, He offers to open our spiritual eyes. Often, we're like the disciples, quick to judge or assume why someone is suffering. But Jesus shows us that God's work can be displayed even in our struggles.
Today, reflect on areas where you might be spiritually blind. Ask God to help you see situations and people as He does. Consider how your difficulties might be opportunities for God's glory to be revealed.
Remember, Jesus is the light of the world, ready to illuminate our path if we're willing to follow Him.
Today, reflect on areas where you might be spiritually blind. Ask God to help you see situations and people as He does. Consider how your difficulties might be opportunities for God's glory to be revealed.
Remember, Jesus is the light of the world, ready to illuminate our path if we're willing to follow Him.
Day 2: The Power of Personal Testimony
Reading: John 9:8-12
Devotional: The healed man's simple testimony, "I was blind but now I see," is profoundly powerful. Our personal experiences with God are unique and valuable.
Today, consider your own journey of faith. How has Jesus changed your life? Write down specific ways you've been transformed. Practice sharing your story with others, even if it feels uncomfortable.
Your testimony, no matter how simple, can be a powerful tool for God's kingdom. Remember, you don't need all the answers; you just need to be honest about what God has done for you.
Today, consider your own journey of faith. How has Jesus changed your life? Write down specific ways you've been transformed. Practice sharing your story with others, even if it feels uncomfortable.
Your testimony, no matter how simple, can be a powerful tool for God's kingdom. Remember, you don't need all the answers; you just need to be honest about what God has done for you.
Day 3: Overcoming Spiritual Blindness
Reading: John 9:13-34
Devotional: The Pharisees, despite their religious knowledge, were spiritually blind to Jesus' true identity. It's a stark reminder that head knowledge alone isn't enough; we need heart transformation.
Today, examine your own life. Are there areas where pride, tradition, or preconceived notions might be blinding you to God's work? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any spiritual blind spots.
Pray for humility and openness to God's truth, even when it challenges your assumptions. Remember, true sight comes from acknowledging our need for Jesus and allowing Him to open our eyes.
Today, examine your own life. Are there areas where pride, tradition, or preconceived notions might be blinding you to God's work? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any spiritual blind spots.
Pray for humility and openness to God's truth, even when it challenges your assumptions. Remember, true sight comes from acknowledging our need for Jesus and allowing Him to open our eyes.
Day 4: The Journey to Belief
Reading: John 9:35-38
Devotional: The healed man's journey to faith is beautiful. He moves from knowing Jesus as "the man they call Jesus" to worshiping Him as Lord. Our faith journey is often similar – a gradual revelation of who Jesus truly is. Today, reflect on your own path to faith.
How has your understanding of Jesus grown? What experiences have deepened your belief? Thank God for the ways He's revealed Himself to you. If you're struggling with doubt, be honest with God about it.
Ask Him to continue revealing Himself to you, just as He did for the blind man.
How has your understanding of Jesus grown? What experiences have deepened your belief? Thank God for the ways He's revealed Himself to you. If you're struggling with doubt, be honest with God about it.
Ask Him to continue revealing Himself to you, just as He did for the blind man.
Day 5: Light in the Darkness
Reading: John 9:39-41; John 8:12
Devotional: Jesus declares that He came into the world for judgment, to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind. This paradox reminds us that true wisdom often begins with acknowledging our limitations.
Today, meditate on Jesus as the light of the world. In what areas of your life do you need His light to shine? Are there "dark" situations where you need His guidance? Invite Jesus to illuminate your path, your decisions, and your relationships.
Commit to walking in His light, allowing His truth to guide your steps and transform your perspective on the world around you.
Today, meditate on Jesus as the light of the world. In what areas of your life do you need His light to shine? Are there "dark" situations where you need His guidance? Invite Jesus to illuminate your path, your decisions, and your relationships.
Commit to walking in His light, allowing His truth to guide your steps and transform your perspective on the world around you.
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