For the last few weeks, the journey has taken me through John 12-13. The journey has taught about what’s most important in life, that the Spirit inside will guide, and the fruits of the Spirit contain seeds that need to be spread. Below, are some seeds that provide encouragement on the journey ahead!

The takeaway in John 12:1-11 is to know what’s most important in life and focus in on that. To understand that what’s on the inside or in the heart is most important because that’s what will ultimately come out in what I do and how I do it. I was reminded of the old saying “actions speak louder than words”.

Focusing in on the passage John 12:12-19, noted was how caring Jesus was toward people. He was passionate about His purpose and taught how to live. He was interesting, inspiring, and wanted people to be the best they could be. His Spirit inside continues to guide people today!

Jesus’ death on the cross produced many seeds. A thought from reading John 12:20-36 is that these seeds have grown into the fruits of the Spirit; building intangibles living inside each person to guide.

A thought after reading John 12:37-50 is that receiving approval from others gives a good feeling but is only short term. On the other hand, approval from God brings joy forever!

Insight gained from reading John 13:1-11 is that following God’s purpose brings composure. Just like demonstrated by Jesus as he calmly continued to carry out His purpose. To have the same composure as Jesus when facing threatening situations, let us each discover that purpose, accept God’s love, help others, promote His glory, and look forward to an amazing future.

Learned in reading John 13:12-20 is that we can obey today and follow the Way by using our God given skills to humbly serve others. We can start right where we are, focus on the path Jesus has laid, and continue the walk of faith step by step. Then we can share what we see, what we hear, and what we feel as we go along life’s journey.

When the Son of God shines on us my friend, we cannot help but reflect the Light. From the Word of God in John 13:21-35, the vision was to let us take in this Light and provide rays of sunshine into the lives of others.

Approval from God brings joy forever and following His purpose brings composure to carry it out. We can obey today by following the Way of Jesus in all we do or say. Jesus has taught how to love others and by following what He taught, the whole world benefits and there is a smile from heaven.