Devotional: Don’t Forget the Invitation

In difficult times, the Bible teaches us to let love be our guide and to keep our composure. John 15 shows us how to keep our composure – and it’s by taking advantage of a trio of invitations from Jesus.

John 12-17 is a collection of some of Jesus’ most intimate conversations with His disciples. The Puritan writer Charles Ross called it, “The Inner Sanctuary.” And our relationship with Jesus means that we are invited into that “inner sanctuary.” This invitation is the most important invitation we could ever receive. When you think about it, our lives are significantly impacted by the invitations that we receive, and whether we accept or reject those invitations.

Questions for Meditation

1. What invitation does Jesus give us when He says, “I no longer call you slaves, I call you friends?” What is the significance of this invitation?
2. Think about some of the friendships in your life. What makes them special?
3. Jesus’ invitation to friendship includes, “Everything I learned from my father I have made known to you.” What is Jesus implying is unique about this friendship with Him?
4. What invitation does Jesus offer when He says, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you?” Think about your calling – perhaps in your home, in your workplace, amongst your friends, family, and the people you carry influence with. What have you been called to?
5. It was important that Jesus’ disciples knew they were called and appointed, because later on He would instruct them that they would be called to do even more than He did. Why is it important for you to understand where God has called you, and what do you feel like He is preparing you for in the future?
6. Miracles run concurrent with our calling. When we are inside of God’s calling, His resources always meet our needs. But what happens when we step outside of our calling?
7. Jesus’ third invitation was to be bold in our asking. He promises fruit – and fruit that will last – when we commune with Him. Where are you lacking today, and what are you believing God to supply?