Daily devotion – Eternal life!
The Gift of Eternal Life
John 17:1–3 – Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”
Eternal life.
Have you ever paused to reflect on what that actually means?
In the Gospel of John, this theme echoes throughout the chapters—at least 17 times. Eternal life isn’t merely a length of life; it’s a quality of life. It’s not just life after death—it’s life in relationship with the living God, starting the moment we believe in His Son, Jesus Christ.
Jesus makes it clear: eternal life is knowing God—not just knowing about Him, but truly knowing Him personally through faith in Jesus Christ. It’s a deep, daily, transforming relationship with the God who made us, and the Son He sent to save us.
Jesus was given authority by the Father to grant this eternal life to those whom the Father had given Him. From heaven’s perspective, the plan of salvation was already in motion before we even took our first breath—divine election. While the mystery of how that works may stretch our understanding, the beauty is that God doesn’t ask us to figure it all out. He simply asks us to receive it by faith.
Many today say, “I believe in God,” and assume that is enough. But Scripture makes it plain—faith in God alone is not saving faith.
James 2:19 says: “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!”
The difference lies in knowing God through Jesus Christ. Eternal life is only found in Him.
As we approach Easter, take time this week to meditate on the wonder of eternal life. If you have placed your trust in Jesus, you have already received the most precious gift God could ever give. Let your heart rejoice in the eternal, unbreakable relationship you now have with the Father through His Son.
Prayer:
Lord God, thank You for the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Help me to grow in truly knowing You—not just facts about You, but a living, loving relationship with You each day. May this Easter season remind me afresh of the precious, eternal gift You have given. In Jesus’ name, Amen.