WORDS OF LIFE
13th Nov 2013
There was a rather tense moment in the ministry of Jesus when His message had created a very strong reaction. John 6:66 says, “From this time many of his disciples turned back....” Jesus then turned to the Twelve and asked whether they too wanted to leave, to which Peter answered, “Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
That set me thinking about the phrase “words of life”. Peter knew that whatever Jesus spoke to him, however challenging, were words that were going to shape his life for good. Jesus was going to rebuke him, uncover motives in his heart, but also encourage him, and believe in him.
Peter had messed up, denied Jesus, and run away. Now once again they meet face to face, and the words Jesus speaks are “words of life”. Jesus asked him, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said “Feed my sheep.” (John 21:16) His words lifted Peter out of the guilt and despair of the past few days, extended love and forgiveness, and set Peter on a future pathway that would change his life and transform others.
The heart of God towards all his children is always to affirm, strengthen, forgive, comfort, and show His love towards us. He will correct and challenge, but He never condemns or wants to punish us for our foolishness. As you read his Word, or listen to His voice speaking into your heart today, listen for those “words of life”.
As we live as those who are, “ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven”, we need to make sure the words we speak are “words of life”. Paul said, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4.6)
Today receive a “word of life”, from the Father, specific to your need, and find someone who needs to hear a “word of life” from you.
by Charles Sibthorpe
