READING: 2 Kings 11-13, John 10:22-42
It was one of the most powerful verses I read when I first became a believer. I had been afraid of the reality of hell prior to my conversion, but then my friend told me about Christ’s sacrificial death on my behalf. The Word came to life for me, and I remember reading these words: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:28).
Just the words “eternal life” made a huge difference for me. I didn’t understand all the theological implications behind the terms, but I did know that “eternal” meant without end. Then, Jesus added to those words, “they will never perish.” It was as if He were saying, “if you didn’t get it with the word ‘eternal,’ I assure you again that you’ll not perish.” God would protect His own, and no one could remove them from His family. They would be safe in His hands.
Many years after my conversion, the words of John 10:28 mean even more to me today. At my conversion as a 13-year-old, I didn’t realize just how dependent on God I would be as I sought to follow Him. I thought I could handle my Christianity on my own as long as I kept doing what was right. What I’ve learned since then is that my security is not based in my actions, but in the protecting love of my Savior. The life He gives me is indeed eternal.
PRAYER: “Thank You, Father, for protecting me from perishing.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Kings 14-15, John 11:1-27