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Selah reflections
Selected reflections from students across Pune. Browse the archive, or pick a date on the calendar.
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September 2026
SMTWTFS
24 reflections in September 2026. Select a highlighted date to filter the list.
Revelation 2:18-29, Matthew 2:4
The Jesus Who Sees Everything
Revelation 2:18-29, Matthew 2:4 Today I ate Revelation 2:18-29 and, in parallel, I’ve been writing Matthew as well. Today, the Lord helped me finish chapter 4. I’m writing Matthew while also watching "The Chosen", so it’s kinda helping me connect things and see the context a little better. From Revelation, today I read the part where Jesus is talking to the church in Thyatira. And here, I saw a Jesus who is a Judge. His eyes are like blazing fire and His feet are like burnished bronze. There’s something so weighty about seeing Jesus this way. When I read about each church, I’ve started considering that I am that church and that Jesus is talking to me. Somehow, this is helping me renew my mind. His Word isn’t just about "them". It is speaking to me. He is the One who knows our love, faith, service and perseverance. And He even acknowledges that I, the church, am now doing more than I did at first. That reminded me of El-Roi, "The God who sees." Yeah, He still does! But the same Jesus who sees what is good also sees what needs to change. He corrects me not to tolerate Jezebel and to stay alert when it comes to idolatry. Abbah, help me! One important characteristic of Jesus that I understood from this passage is in verse 23. He is the One who SEARCHES HEARTS AND MINDS. Nothing is hidden from Him. And He will REPAY EACH ONE OF US ACCORDING TO OUR DEEDS. That also reminded me not to learn Satan’s so-called "deep secrets", but to stay holy and hold on to what I have received. And then... comes the most exciting part. THE PROMISE. Verses 26 and 28. If I’m victorious, I’ll be given: Authority over nations A morning star I’m keeping track of these promises and asking God in prayer to help me be victorious, so that I may inherit all that He has promised. So far, 6 promises: Eat from the tree of life Not be hurt by the second death Hidden manna A white stone with a new name Authority over nations The morning star I want to overcome. I want to remain faithful till the end. From Matthew, I learnt a lot. But one particular verse became very personal to me. Matthew 4:24. Jesus healed those suffering pain. I paused there for a long time, especially because I’m going through some pain myself. I hope and believe that Jesus will heal me too. Nothing more to say. Precious Holy Spirit, help me, please.... Thank You for all the pain, because nothing happens outside of Your will. If You are willing, heal me. If not, give me Your grace. Help me to be victorious and inherit all that You have promised. Open my eyes to understand the Scriptures so that I may glorify our Father in heaven. Please bless the readers as well. Father God, I love You. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Revelation 2: 12-17
What Have I Allowed to Stay?
Revelation 2: 12-17 Today I ate the word from Revelation 2: 12-17 and it's a blessing to me. I'm eating gospel of Matthew parallel to this, but I'll write about it in the next SELAH. From Revelation, I saw a Jesus with sharp, double-edged sword (looks like a judge). Jesus is saying to the church in pergamum that even if you live in the place where satan has his throne, you remained faithful to my name. This reminds me that God does care about faithfulness inspite of the circumstances. Then Jesus explicitly says what is wrong with them. From this portion i understood that the teaching and theology they followed was wrong. Jesus confronted their idolatry too. Abbah, if I have put anything, even myself above you, please forgive me. Help me to come back to you. Jesus is asking his church to repent. And I do. Precious Holyspirit pls help me. And the most wonderful part is the 3rd and 4th promise (so far) from Revelation - if I'm victorious Jesus has promised to give me some of the hidden manna! And also I'll get a white stone with a new name (only known to me) written on it. I wonder what that name would be. I wonder what name other than Kezia suits me :) only God knows! Precious Holyspirit, I wanna eat the hidden manna, I'm excited about the new name you have for me. But I'm too far away from being victorious. Help me to overcome sin that easily entangle, help me to abide in you, follow sound doctrine and please you in everything I do. Father God I love you. Bless the reader's as well. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Revelation 2:8-11
Faithful Till the End
Revelation 2:8-11 Today I ate Revelation 2:8-11. I’m really liking this way of reading Revelation slowly. Instead of trying to finish a whole chapter, I’m just sitting with what the Precious Holy Spirit is showing me... This passage is Jesus speaking to the church in Smyrna. They were going through suffering and poverty, yet Jesus says they were rich. That really made me think. What the world calls lack may not actually be lack in the eyes of Jesus. (Again, The Kingdom of God is upside down!) And then comes the part I’m noticing in each of these passages now... what does Jesus promise to the one who overcomes? "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown." And then, "The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death." That is SO comforting. If I remain faithful to Jesus, even death cannot have the final word over me. There is a crown of life waiting, and the second death cannot touch me. Thank You, Lord. I don’t know what all the future holds, but I know what I want. I wanna remain faithful to Jesus till the end. Precious Holy Spirit, help me. When suffering comes, help me not to be afraid. Help me remain faithful to Jesus no matter what. Keep my eyes on eternity and make me more like my beloved Jesus. Father God, thank You for loving me so richly and blessing me in Christ. I love You too. Help me. And please bless everyone who reads this. Draw them closer to Jesus and speak to them through Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Matthew 2:1-17 & Rev 2:1-7
Don’t Lose Jesus While Serving Jesus
Matthew 2:1-17 & Rev 2:1-7 As I write this, I feel so exhausted and filled at the same time. Maybe both these feelings can coexist. It’s 11:57pm, and I’m reflecting on what I read and gained today. Today was SO different. I not only ate, but was also spoonfed the Precious Scriptures. I was led to go for a fasting prayer and there was a guest pastor who taught from Romans 8 in the morning, about suffering leading to joy, and from Job 38 about suffering being intended to make me more like Jesus. A lot of calories were there. A LOT. I need some time to take in everything because God clearly spoke to me today. I’ll better reflect on the written notes in one of the coming days. Then I ate Matthew 2:1-17. The Magi came looking for Jesus, worshipped him and gave him their treasures. Joseph too, when God warned him, just obeyed. I was thinking about how I seek Jesus, what I’m willing to give him and whether I’m willing to obey even when I don’t understand everything. I want to be someone who keeps choosing Jesus... And then Revelation 2:1-7. Verse 4 really got me...They were doing so many things right, but Jesus still had something against them. They had forsaken their first love!! Oh, and I take this seriously. I wanna love Jesus more than yesterday... Lord, please help me love You more. Help me do the right things that are pleasing to your eyes. I don’t want to be busy doing things for you and somehow lose the love I have for gou. Pls help me lord.... And verse 7! "TO THE ONE WHO IS VICTORIOUS, I WILL GIVE THE RIGHT TO EAT FROM THE TREE OF LIFE, WHICH IS IN THE PARADISE OF GOD." Hurray!! I’m so excited to eat from the tree of life. I wanna overcome. I wanna remain faithful till the end. (Just imagine, we'll be eating from the tree of life one day! Wow :) I think that it'd be so cool!) Today I feel like the Lord gave me more than I could take in one day. And maybe that’s okay (a lot more calories from Romans 8, Job 38 etc also - I'll not write it now). I’ll go back to my notes in the coming days and let the Precious Holy Spirit keep speaking. My friend, My Precious Holy Spirit, thank You for spoon-feeding me your word today. Help me not just to hear what you speak, but to live it. Help me love Jesus more than yesterday and become more like him every day, every way! Keep me faithful till the end. And please bless everyone who reads this. Speak to them personally through Your Word and draw them closer to Jesus. Father God, I love you!In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Matthew 1 & Revelation 1:12-20
Same Jesus. Different Glimpse.
Matthew 1 & Revelation 1:12-20 Today I ate Matthew 1 and Revelation 1:12-20. Two very different passages, but both made me look at Jesus a little more closely!Also, by the way, I’ve been watching "The Chosen" and I’m in Season 2 now. And it’s going good.. It’s been nice seeing the Gospel stories being brought to life while I’m also eating the word for myself! Matthew 1 reminded me that God works through ordinary people and complicated stories. The genealogy has so many names and stories behind it, but right in the middle of it all is my JESUS. And Joseph choosing obedience when he didn’t fully understand everything really stood out to me! Then in Revelation, John sees Jesus in His glory and falls at his feet. But Jesus says, "Do not be afraid." The same Jesus who is so holy and powerful is also the One who comes near and comforts His people. He says, "I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One. I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever." I JUST WANT TO KNOW THIS JESUS MORE. These two scriptures actually challenges me to be more like Christ - to be a Christovert!HOW?Obedience even when I don’t understand everything. Reverence for Jesus, while also knowing that I can come near to Him without fear... Precious Holy Spirit, keep showing me Jesus through Your word and make me more like Him. Abbah, I’m depending on You. Please bless the readers as well. Father God, Thank You so much for loving me this much. I love you too! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Revelation 1:1-11
FINALLY… Revelation!
Rev 1:1-11 Umm... FINALLY I’m reading Revelation! Eating this book is kinda special for me. This is the book which I’ve started many times and couldn’t continue, and somehow I’ve developed this unnecessary fear around reading it. Idk what it is exactly. Maybe the whole idea of "end times" and everything around it made my view of this book so different. I’ve read the gospels and Epistles multiple times but Revelation?! I’ll honestly be surprised if I complete this book cuz I’ve failed many times before •_• Tbh, I think I’ve developed an "Inertia of non-reading" for this book. Well, I’ve decided to overcome this inertia, starting from TODAY! Ofc, completely depending on the Precious Holy Spirit. I hope to stay consistent and gain A LOT of calories from this book. And here we go... HALLELUJAH! Abbah, pls help me! Today I ate Revelation 1:1-11. I’m gonna go v slowly with this one. I don’t wanna rush. I want to understand what the Lord is trying to teach me. And for that very reason, it may take me a long time to finish this book. But guess what?! My friend, my Precious Holy Spirit is with me. And that’s enough... Verse 3 gave me SO much joy! "Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy. Blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it." WAIT! I’m so blessed from the moment I start reading this book? WOW. Then verses 4 to 6 really stood out to me. John speaks about the One who is, who was, and who is to come, and the seven spirits before His throne. I did a lil research and understood this as the sevenfold Spirit of God - the Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge and the fear of the Lord. And then Jesus is described as the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. But what really touched me was this... HE LOVES US. verse 6 is so close to my heart - "To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father - to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen". WOW. I feel so loved reading this... And verse 8... "I am the Alpha and the Omega." The One who is, who was and who is to come, the Almighty. WHOa. That made me pause. Jesus is not just someone I’m reading about. He is my God. How can someone be my God, my Lord, my Father and My friend all at once?! So cool. (Lord and friend by cece winans is what comes to my lips right now)... Then John calls himself our brother and companion in suffering, kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Christ Jesus. That really stood out to me. These are part of my journey with Jesus. And then he is told to write what he sees and send it to the seven churches. So tomorrow, I’ll continue and see what Mr. HS wants to show me next. For today, this is my meal. And honestly? I’m already full. Precious Holy Spirit, help me. Remove every unnecessary fear and help me understand, receive and take to heart your word. Help me stay consistent till the end. Abba, I’m depending on You! Please bless the readers as well. Father God, thanks for blessing me in Christ already. I love you so much. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 39
Marked as His
Exodus 39 I see that God is most holy and pure. The priests had to put a plate on their crown which said 'HOLINESS TO THE LORD' I want to strive by the strength of Christ Jesus and guidance of the Holy Spirit to fulfil this calling of being holy.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Epistle of James: Reflection
James and I had a Little Reunion
After eating the Gospel according to Mark last week, the Lord gave me a feast from the Epistle of James this week. And today… James and I had a lil reunion! I deliberately didn’t eat any other chapter today because I wanted to give this time fully to James. I went through all 5 chapters again, reread the 5 SELAHs I had written, and revisited what the Precious Holy Spirit had spoken to me through His Word. And honestly? WHAT A MEAL! As I went through James again, I was like… WHOA It’s crazy how the same word can hit you differently when you come back to it. Almost every chapter made me pause and look at myself. James 1 reminded me not to just HEAR the Word, but to DO it. I don’t want to be someone who reads the Bible, gets excited, highlights everything, and then… nothing changes in my life. James 2 reminded me that faith cannot just stay in my words. It has to be VISIBLE. What I believe should actually affect the way I live. James 3… ahhh. My tongue! The precious Holy Spirit really made me look at my words again. How easily can I hurt someone without even realising it? And the wisdom from above - pure, peace-loving, gentle, full of mercy and good fruit… Oh, how much I still need to grow in these things! James 4 made me examine my heart. Am I becoming too comfortable with the world, or am I actually drawing nearer to God? I love this verse- "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you" . And James 5 reminded me to WAIT. PRAY. ENDURE. Like the farmer waiting for the precious fruit of the earth. I may not see what God is doing, but that doesn’t mean He isn’t doing something. I want to learn to trust him even in the waiting. And when I put all five chapters together, one thing became so clear to me... faith was never meant to stay in my Bible. It has to show up in my LIFE. And this is where CHRISTOVERT comes in for me! Becoming like Jesus isn’t just about knowing more Scripture, having Christian vocabulary, or looking "spiritual." It is the Precious Holy Spirit transforming me from the inside out! my words, actions, relationships, desires, reactions, prayers, waiting… ALL of it. And honestly, I’m not there yet. Not even close. But I LONG to be. I long for Jesus to become so evident in me that my life itself begins to look like him. I want my responses to look like Jesus, my love to look like Jesus, my humility to look like Jesus, my faith to look like Jesus. I want Christlikeness to become more than something I admire... I want it to become who I am becoming!! Abba, I don’t want to just collect Bible knowledge. I want Your Word to become LIFE in me. I want my faith to be visible. I want Jesus to be seen in me. Precious Holy Spirit, keep transforming me into the image of my beloved Jesus. Help me not just to hear, but to LIVE. And help the readers as well. Father God, I Love You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey1 commentsRead 
James 5
Still Here. Still Trusting.
Today I ate the Word from James 5. I woke up this morning and ate this chapter, and again, it was some calories to my inner man! And today is Sundayyy!! We have church today, and I’m honestly so excited because I’m on vacation right now, so I get this little bit of time to be back in my home church- the church where I was raised. There’s just something so special about being here again, worshipping Jesus in the place that has been such a big part of my life... I’m genuinely grateful for this little time I get here! One thing that really caught my attention was how James talks about patience and endurance. He talks about the farmer waiting for the precious fruit of the earth, the prophets who endured suffering, and then Job. This made me Pause... (SELAH.) Bcoz honestly, waiting can be so hard... Sometimes I just want to know what God is doing, why He is doing it, and WHEN something is going to happen. I want the answer nowww . But James reminded me about the farmer. He sows the seed and then waits. He doesn’t keep digging it up every day to check whether it’s growing. He trusts the process. Oh! He TRUSTS??!. And I was like... Abbah, am I really trusting You while I wait? Or am I constantly worrying because I can’t see what You are doing? Then this verse really stood out to me "Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray" I love how James just says it so simply. Are you suffering? Pray. Are you cheerful? Praise. Whatever season I’m in, I can bring it to God. And then there's Elijah!! James says that Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and yet he prayed earnestly. That encouraged me so much. Sometimes I look at people with great faith and think, "Brooo, how do they have that kind of faith?" But Elijah was human just like me. He wasn’t some superhuman. HE PRAYED. And that reminded me that I too can pray, believe and trust God. And I think this is also a part of becoming a Christovert.. learning to look more like Jesus even in the way I wait, pray, trust and respond to life. Also, the ending of this chapter touched me! James talks about someone wandering away from the truth and another person helping bring them back. It reminded me that MY WALK WITH JESUS ISN’T JUST ABOUT ME. I want to be someone who notices when someone is drifting, who prays for them, loves them and helps them come back to Jesus.... Precious Holy Spirit, help me to be patient while I wait. Help me not to give up when I don’t see things happening immediately. Teach me to pray instead of worrying and to trust You even when I don’t understand. Help me to keep walking with You and to keep showing up. And please use me to help others come closer to You too. Keep transforming me into the image of our beloved Jesus. Help the readers as well. Father God, Ily! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey1 commentsRead 
James 4
The Friendship I Want Most
Today I ate the Word from James 4. This chapter really gave me a lot to chew on! One thing that really caught my attention was "friendship with the world is enmity with God." That really made me pause!! How easily my heart can get attracted to the things of this world and slowly move away from God without even realising it. Abbah, I don’t want to be so comfortable with the world that I become distant from You. I want my heart to belong completely to You... And then verses 7 and 8 really encouraged me. "Submit yourselves, therefore, to God. RESIST THE DEVIL, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” I love that. I also noticed how James talks about asking and not receiving because of wrong motives. It made me look at my own prayers and ask, am I asking just for what I want, or am I really seeking His will? I want to draw near to Him with a heart that truly desires Him... Precious Holy Spirit, help me not to become a friend of the world (I learnt from a mission conference that God is calling me into a deeper friendship with him. I truly wanna embrace that!) Help me to submit to God, resist the enemy, draw near to Abba, and let even my prayers come from a heart that seeks his will. Please keep transforming me into the image of our beloved Jesus. Help the readers as well. Father God, i love you! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey1 commentsRead 
James 3
Does My Mouth Sound Like Jesus?
James 3 Today I ate the Word from James 3. I woke up early morning and ate this chapter, and it was some calories to my inner man! Right now I’m sitting inside the KSRTC bus, it’s 7:21 pm (ikr, v late! ), with my Dad, Mom, bro and lil sister, going back home after visiting our extended family in Niranam, Tiruvalla. Today was really joyful! And while travelling with my Priyadarshini free ticket , I was just thinking how privileged I am to have a family to visit and go back home to. But then I was reminded - in Christ, we are never without family! We are part of one body and have a spiritual family in Him. (Even if you don’t have a family of your own, you are still not alone... you have brothers and sisters in Christ who can love you, walk with you and stand with you.) As I sit here and reflect on what I ate this morning, there were a few things that really made me pause. One thing that touched me was about the tongue. I admit, I forget this so often. Even when I don’t intend to, my words can sometimes affect someone more than I realise. It reminded me to be more careful with what comes out of my mouth. Abba, please forgive me for all the times I have hurt someone with my words or grieved the precious Holy Spirit. Help me to use my tongue to bless and not to hurt. Help me to remember that my words have the power to build someone up or bring them down. And then the wisdom from above! James says it is first PURE, PEACE-LOVING, CONSIDERATE, SUBMISSIVE, FULL OF MERCY AND GOOD FRUIT... Oh, how many times I have fallen short of these! I don’t want these to remain just words I know from the Bible. I want this wisdom from above to actually become part of me... in the way I speak, the way I respond, the way I treat people and even in the way I handle situations when things don’t go the way I want..! Precious Holy Spirit, help me to have control over my tongue and give me the wisdom that comes from above. Help me to be peace-loving, considerate, submissive, merciful and full of good fruit. Keep transforming me into the image of my beloved Jesus. Help the readers as well. Father God, Ily. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
John 14:15-30
You Were Never Meant to Obey Alone
What we learned in today's campus fellowship meeting Scripture: John 14:15-30 1. If we love Jesus, we will obey his commands. And these are not just the commands like "Don't murder or steal". These are also the ones like "Don't lust or get angry at your brother". So most of the times we find our love for Jesus falling way too short... 2. How do we actually get there? Let's have a stepwise approach to this. Know his word by reading the Bible Let it go deep inside by memorizing and meditating on the word Treasure the word in your heart Listen to the Holy Spirit reminding you of the word when specific situations arise Act on it! That's obedience! And it's like a vicious cycle. The more you love the more you obey. The more you obey, the more you keep obeying and keep loving. 3. The Holy Spirit being given to the believers wasn't a new concept Jesus introduced. It had been promised to Gods people all through the OT. Ezekiel 36:27: "And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules". If we obey all the commands and fail at one, we have still disobeyed, but the Holy Spirit who now lives in us is the one who now causes us to walk in his statutes, which was impossible for us without him. Hence, John 14:16 isn't a new concept, but the fulfilment of an age old promise! And that is why 4 times repeatedly throughout the passage Jesus says "If you love me, you will obey my commands" because he has given us the Holy Spirit to help us keep these commands! 4. God in his goodness will reveal himself to us in many ways so we will get to know him, but only if we truly love him will we really listen to him and obey him 5. Jesus says that it is far better for us to have the Holy Spirit living in us that Jesus present beside us physically in this age! This is because the Holy Spirit accomplishes more in us and through us than Jesus did in his lifetime. This is a bit difficult for us to accept, but we pray God will open our eyes to understand this privilege that we have! We also learn about the Holy Spirit, his role and his nature in our lives, as the person of the Godhead who lives in us and shows Jesus to us. 6. The devil never had any hold on Jesus, and as his little brothers and sisters, we are also free from any hooks of the devil. God bless us all this week as we get to know the Holy Spirit more and love Jesus and obey him!
Symbiosis Lavale Campus Group1 commentsRead
Exodus 37-38
Follow, Don’t Overthink
Exodus 37-38 In these chapters we see how God gave Moses and the team clear guidance on every detail of how to make the articles and tabernacle. I learnt that if I take a step for God I don't have to stress about how things will work, I just need to follow God's instructions.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Exodus 36
Faith Works Before It Sees
Exodus 36 God provided the gifted artisans with sufficient supplies, more than enough, to build the place of worship. I want to trust God, not waiting for visible signs, but I want to work in faith, because our LORD is Jehovah Jireh.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Psalm 20
Trust the Name, Not the Numbers
Psalm 20 Verse 1 - "May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble" These verses are a proclamation to the world. When troubles rises, the world often gives quick solutions (like when we want to get out of trouble, friends and other people might say - just tell lies that it will be fine), false security etc. But these verses say that God will hear, protect and send help from above. We just need to pray and have faith in God's work. Verses 6-8 elaborates that we should trust in His name and not on numbers. In the old times, the chariots and horses represented strength, status just like in today's world how much money, influence, technology you have represents the status that you carry. But these are not where our ultimate hope lies. Our hope is on God. Those who trust in Him maybe surrounded but they will not be shaken.
Serah Blessen0 commentsRead
James 2
The KOG is upside down
James 2 Today I ate the Word from James 2. "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." This made me pause. Our faith should be visible in the way we live. It’s not enough to say I believe in Jesus.. my actions should show that I truly follow Him. And today, we had FORGE Leadership meet online. From the little time I spent there, I was reminded again that the Kingdom of God is upside down! The world looks at status, wealth and importance, but God looks at people differently. James reminds us not to show favouritism, especially towards the rich. In God’s Kingdom, the values are completely different from the world’s. Precious Holy Spirit, help my faith become visible through my life and help me live according to your kingdom. Please help the readers as well. Father God, I love you. In Jesus' name, Amen!❤️
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
John 12:1-8
When Jesus Becomes the Centre
John 12:1–8 Mary’s act of pouring out the costly perfume and wiping Jesus’ feet with her hair in front of a whole crowd of people having dinner shows us a humility that goes beyond words. She did not care how she appeared before the people around her. Her only concern was Jesus. She was willing to humble herself completely because she knew He was worthy of everything she could give. We are nothing and we deserve nothing in this world. Our lives do not belong to us. As Luke 17:10 says "So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.'" We are not the centre; Christ is. Jesus Christ is to whom our entire being belongs. Our abilities, possessions, ambitions, relationships, and even our future are gifts entrusted to us by Him. Let everything we are and everything we do point back to Him and bring glory to His name.
Michael George0 commentsRead
James 1
Don’t Just Read It. Live It.
Today I ate the Word from James 1. From this chapter, the verse “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only" made me pause. How many times do I hear the Word, get excited about it, and then forget to actually live it? The word is not just something to read and feel good about.. it has to become my life! I also loved how James says to ask God for wisdom and to consider it joy when we face trials. Trials are not always easy, but God can use them to produce perseverance and make me more mature in him. Precious Holy Spirit, help me not just to hear Your Word but to live it. Keep transforming me into the image of my beloved Jesus. Help the readers as well. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 35
When Passion Becomes Participation
Exodus 35 When the LORD told His people to provide materials for building the place of worship, many of God's people were willing and stirred in their hearts to give to the LORD. I want to stir up my passion to do God's work, and also want to give whatever I can for the same.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Mark 8:36–37
The Real Profit: What Are You Trading Your Soul For?
"For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul?" Mark 8:36–37 (ESV) Ask yourself honestly: what is the point of winning in the eyes of this world if your soul ends up in eternal destruction? The world offers temporary satisfaction pleasures, validation, and comfort that fade within moments. But every fleeting thrill comes at a cost if it pulls your heart away from God. We cannot afford to build our entire lives around things that perish while neglecting our eternal relationship with the Creator. Following Jesus requires shifting our focus away from worldly compromise and walking faithfully according to the Gospel. The road is not always easy, and following Christ may bring suffering, sacrifice, and misunderstanding in this life. But Scripture promises that our present trials pale in comparison to the eternal reward waiting for those who endure. Imagine standing before God and hearing Him say: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Remember the magnitude of what Christ has done. You were not redeemed with corruptible things, but with the precious blood of Jesus poured out on the cross to cancel our sins, wash us clean, and redeem us from the bondage of the world. People will walk in and out of your life, trends will change, and worldly security will crumble but Jesus Christ remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. You are precious to Him. The Gospel calls for a genuine response: repent of your sins, turn away from the empty patterns of this world, trust Christ wholeheartedly, and anchor your life in the pure Word of God. Nothing this world can give you is worth losing your soul. Choose the eternal over the temporary live fully for Christ. May God bless you all
Kewyn Varghese Mathew0 commentsRead 
Gospel of Mark: A Full Reflection
CHRISTOVERT: Beyond the Boxes
On August 12, the word CHRISTOVERT became a noun in one of my SELAHs. 😄 My friend Ashlyn even made an image for it! I received this word which we can't find in any dictionary, but somehow this little word began to express something very close to my heart. We live in a world where we love putting ourselves into boxes. Introvert. Extrovert. Ambivert. But as I thought more about following Jesus, I began to wonder, what if I am not called to become more introverted or more extroverted, but more Christ-like? To me, that is what a Christovert means. Not another personality box, but a person who is continuously being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ by the precious Holy Spirit. Christlikeness becoming our true personality. And then came the Gospel of Mark!! In one of his sermons, our pastor had encouraged us to definitely read the Gospel of Mark, and I decided to take it up next. I had read the Gospel of Mark before, but this time I wanted to read it with a different question... "Jesus, how can I become more like You? How can I become a Christovert?" From August 24 to September 1, I ate through all 16 chapters in just eight days. And now that I have reached the end, I honestly feel so grateful. I feel like my inner man has been fed so well! 😄 So many calories! Long way to go.... But more than finishing the Gospel of Mark, I feel like I have spent these days looking at Jesus. I watched Him. I noticed Him. I paused over His words. I laughed at the disciples. I was challenged by Him.. Some verses made me uncomfortable. Some made me want to cry. And some made me simply say, "My Jesus!" And after all 16 chapters, one thing became clearer to me.... I don't just want to know Jesus. I want His character to be formed in me!!! His compassion. His humility. His courage. His holiness. His prayer life. His love. His servant heart. His obedience. His surrender. I want to pray like Him. To love like Him. To serve like Him. To notice like Him. To forgive like Him. To stand firm like Him. To surrender like Him. To obey the Father like Him. When I saw Jesus withdrawing to be with His father and then going towards people, I realised He wasn't living according to a personality label. He knew what the Father wanted, and He did it! When I saw hiis compassion for people who didn't even ask Him for help, I asked myself, "AM I THOUGHTFUL LIKE JESUS?" When I saw Him welcome children, serve others and turn greatness upside down, I asked, "Am I willing to become small so that someone else can be lifted?" When I saw Him surrender in Gethsemane, and then willingly walk towards the cross, I could only think, "What kind of love is this?" And then Barabbas! The guilty man walked free while Jesus took his place.... Barabbas is me🥹. Jesus took my place. And then the tomb was empty. MY JESUS IS ALIVE!❤️ So this journey through the Gospel of Mark has brought me back to the word that started this journey for me. CHRISTOVERT. It is about allowing Christ to transform the person I am. The old man has died with Christ. The new man is being conformed to His image. My personality is not something I need to destroy, but neither is it something I want to be ruled by. I want Christ to shape how I think, respond, love, serve and live. Precious Holy Spirit, form Christ in me. Take everything that makes me me and bring it under the Lordship of Jesus. Make His character increasingly visible in me. And to you reading this, don't spend your whole life trying to fit yourself into boxes. You don't have to become the perfect introvert, extrovert or ambivert. Let the precious Holy Spirit make you Christ-like. Become a Christovert. Because maybe the question isn't only, "What kind of person am I?" Maybe the deeper question is: "How much of Jesus can people see in the person I am becoming?" Father God, Oh, How we love You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey1 commentsRead 
Exodus 34
Some Things Have to Go
Exodus 34 God tells His people that they must not make any covenant with the Canaanites, but should destroy all their elements of worship. These were God's instructions to His people before taking them to the promise land. In our lives, a big part of the breakthrough happens when we don't compromise, and serve God wholly.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Mark Chapters 13 - 16
Barabbas Is Me
Today I ate the word from Mark Chapters 13 to 16. Usually, I read only one or two chapters a day, but today I realised that only three chapters were left! So I felt encouraged to continue reading all four chapters and finish "The Gospel of Mark". As I write this, I feel so joyful! In Mark 13, I saw Jesus preparing his disciples for what was coming. Even when He spoke about difficult days ahead, He didn't leave them without hope. He told them to stay alert and stand firm. That made me think, can I also remain faithful when things around me are not easy? I learnt that a Christovert should learn to stand firm like Jesus taught His disciples. Then in Mark 14. Jesus knew He was going to suffer, yet He still chose Father's will. "Not what I will, but what You will." And when the high priest asked Him if He was the Messiah, Jesus said, "I am." That gave me so much joy! He didn't hide who he was, even when He knew what it would cost Him. I want that courage and security in Jesus too. Amen! Then came Mark 15, and my heart broke. Barabbas really made me pause. He was guilty, but he walked out free while Jesus was condemned. BARABBAS IS ME. I AM BARABBAS (When I was reflecting this, I was humming the song 'I'm Barabbas' by Josiah Queen🎶 in the background😁) Jesus took his place, and Jesus took mine!! Then Jesus was mocked, spat on, insulted and crucified. He could have saved Himself, but He chose to stay. For me. Woah! WHAT KIND OF LOVE IS THIS? And then in Mark 16... THE TOMB WAS EMPTY! 😭❤️ Jesus is alive! The One who suffered, died and was buried rose again! We may know the story already, but reading it again from the gospels actually make me journey again, and gave a lot of calories for my inner man. Precious Holy Spirit, help me not just read about Jesus, but become more like him. Give me His courage, obedience, humility, love and faithfulness. Make me a Christovert who follows Jesus even when it costs me. Help the readers too. Father God, I love You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Job 37:14
Remembering God in Difficult Seasons
Job 37:14 — “Listen to this, O Job; stand still and consider the wondrous works of God.” Sometimes, in our trials, times of suffering, financial crises, and difficult seasons, we tend to become like Job and ask God, “Where did I go wrong, Lord? What sin have I committed?” We may even become hypocritical and declare ourselves innocent. Sometimes, we become so hasty in making decisions, taking actions, or replying to someone that we forget that we have a God who is mighty enough to solve our problems. We just need to be still. As the Lord says in Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In our times of suffering, we need to remember God's wondrous works that He has done in our lives and realize that our hope lies in Him. Sometimes, simply remembering or reminding ourselves of how mighty our God is gives us the endurance and hope to face whatever circumstances we may be going through. In the Old Testament, we repeatedly see how God reminded His people of the wondrous works He had done for them. In the same way, we should remember what God has done in our lives and trust Him even when we cannot understand what He is doing. Be still. Remember His faithfulness. Trust Him. Amen 🙏
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Romans 3:1-8
When We Fail, He Remains Faithful
Romans 3:1-8 As we begin this morning, Romans 3 reminds us of one beautiful truth: God remains faithful, even when people are unfaithful. Paul begins by asking what advantage there is in being a Jew. The greatest privilege was that they had been entrusted with the very words of God. They had received His promises, His covenant, and His Word. But Paul then asks an important question: What if some were unfaithful? Does their unfaithfulness cancel God’s faithfulness? His answer is a strong “Absolutely not!” “Let God be true, and every human being a liar.” - Romans 3:4 This is such a comforting reminder for us this morning. God’s faithfulness does not depend on our perfection. People may fail, circumstances may change, and even our own faith may become weak at times but God never changes. He remains true to His character and His promises. Paul also warns us not to misunderstand God’s grace. We cannot deliberately continue in wrong ways thinking that God will somehow receive glory from our sin. His faithfulness should lead us closer to Him, not give us an excuse to live carelessly. A thought for today: When we feel weak, remember that God is not weak. When we fail, remember that God is still faithful. When circumstances change, remember that God does not change. Let us begin this day trusting not in our own strength or faithfulness, but in the unfailing faithfulness of our God.Amen. Have a blessed and God-filled day!
Jaden Binny Mammen0 commentsRead
Mark 12; Psalm 68:13
When Jesus Asks for All of Me
Hi Friends, Thanks for reflecting the scriptures with me. Today, we had our monthly prayer at home, and it was such a blessing to have so many from our church come together and pray for our family. During the prayer, Psalm 68:13 reminded me that the Lord chooses us. Among so many, He chose me and set me apart for His missions. How grateful I am. ❤️ After some long hours of sleep, I woke up and ate the word from Mark 12. And one thing kept coming back to me. Oh, and that is... LOVE. Jesus says to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbour as ourselves. Not 50%. Not when I feel like it. ALL. And honestly, somehow, that "all" feels so big! Do I really love God with all of me? Or are there parts of me that I still keep for myself? And then I saw the poor widow. Two tiny coins. That's it. Yet Jesus noticed her... Everyone else probably saw how little she gave, but Jesus saw that she gave out of everything she had. Aww, I found it so beautiful! Jesus looks differently. He sees what people cannot see.. the heart behind what we do. And I wondered, when I serve, give, pray or do something for God, am I doing it to be seen by people, or because I genuinely love him? A Christovert is someone who follows Jesus and desires to become like him. And Mark 12 reminds me that becoming like Jesus isn't about doing impressive things. It is about loving God completely and loving people genuinely. Precious Holy Spirit, teach me to love like Jesus... with my whole heart, without pretending, without seeking attention. Abba, Let my life quietly look more and more like Him. Help the readers too. Father God, I love You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 33
Known by Name, Held by Grace
Exodus 33 I wondered why God told Moses that He knew him by name and that Moses had found favour in His sight, But in reality there was nothing so great about him, then I saw God saying 'I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.' So I concluded that it's not anything great about you, it's about growing out from 'I live for me' to 'I live for Him.'
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Mark 11
A Christovert Keeps Looking at Jesus
Today I ate the word from Mark 11. And I saw Jesus... My Jesus! The King who entered Jerusalem on a donkey! A King choosing humility. My Jesus!❤️ He didn't have to PROVE how great He was. He was so secure in His identity before the Father that humility simply flowed from him.... Then Jesus cleansed the temple, and I could see how seriously he took what belonged to His Father. That made me pause. SELAH.. If Jesus looked at my heart today, what would He find there? Is there anything that has slowly taken the place that belongs to Him? Am I allowing Jesus to be the centre, or have other things quietly occupied that space? I remember that my body is temple of the precious Holyspirit, but knowledge isn't enough. Abbah, Help me! Then Jesus teaches about faith, prayer and forgiveness. I love how Jesus doesn't just call us to admire him, but to follow him and become like him. A Christovert - someone who follows Jesus and intentionally becomes more like him (ofc by no self-efforts, but through the precious Holyspirit)- is called to carry His humility, faith, prayerfulness and heart for people... My dear friend, My Precious Holy Spirit, Please help me to keep looking at Jesus. Please make me more like Jesus, a little more than yesterday. Help me to trust Him, pray with faith, forgive freely and keep my heart clean before Him. Help the readers too. Father God, I love You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Mark 10
A Christovert Doesn’t Chase Greatness
This morning I ate the word from Mark 10. It's 6.50am, and it's FREEZING cold here at the campsite! 🥶😄 Everyone is probably still wrapped up in their blankets, but here I am, sitting with the Word. And honestly, what a beautiful way to start a morning! As I read the scriptures, my heart goes to the Lord who is the Father of us all. Father, talk to me through Your Word today. Make me more like Jesus. Amen! There are so many things in this chapter, but one thing that really caught me was Jesus saying, "Whoever wants to be first must be slave of all." Again Jesus is turning everything upside down!! The world teaches me to become great, to be noticed, to be above others. But Guess what, Jesus teaches me to SERVE! And if I am becoming a Christovert, shouldn't I be becoming someone who serves like Jesus? And then I noticed how Jesus welcomed the little children. He didn't consider them unimportant. He stopped for them, took them in His arms and blessed them. Aww... Jesus is so sweet, hai na!❤️ (I love this portion because I also love the little children) That made me think about how I see people who cannot give me anything back. Do I value them like Jesus does? If I am becoming a Christovert, I should be learning to see people the way Jesus sees them. Then the rich young man came running to Jesus, and Jesus looked at him and loved him. But Jesus asked him to give up what was holding his heart. That made me pause. SELAH😄. What are the things I am holding on to? Am I willing to leave anything if Jesus asks me to? A Christovert cannot hold anything above Jesus. And then Jesus says, "With man this is impossible, but not with God." Ahh! What a hope! There are things I cannot change by myself, but God can. Precious Holy Spirit, help me not to chase greatness, but to serve. Help me to love people like Jesus, hold nothing above Him, and follow Him even when it costs me. Make me a Christovert who looks, loves and serves like Jesus. Help the readers too. Father God, I love You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 32
Standing in the Gap
Exodus 32 I see here that God relents from doing harm when one intercedes for the offender. Let us be like Moses, who asked that his own name be blotted out of God's book, So that the children of Israel would be saved. Let us please God and forsake our pleasure by the help of the Holy Spirit of God
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Job 36:19
The One who saves
Job 36:19 “Will your riches, or all the mighty forces, keep you from distress?” There are no riches, no powers, no mighty forces, and no person, not a single person who can keep you away from distress. But there is a God whom I know and who knows me and everyone, even before this world came into being. There is a God who is above all powers and dominions, all thrones and kingdoms. He is the King of Peace who walks on water just to save you from drowning. Drowning in your thoughts, anxiety, depression, or any circumstances, He is mighty to save. In my distress, the only name or person I turn to is my Saviour, Jesus Christ, He came from heaven to show us the way. Though we were sinners he saved us from eternal death. Christ never says that He will take away all the pain or distress, but He promises us that He will be with us in that pain. In the end, it all turns out for our good. Amen.
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Exodus 31
Called to Work, Invited to Rest
Exodus 31 I see here how God filled Bezalel and the artisans with His Holy Spirit to give him wisdom to do God's work. I also see how God gives us His true rest So let us pray for guidance and grace from the Holy Spirit of God to fulfill the calling He has for our lives, Let us also seek the true rest that comes from the LORD. "Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Reflection
Known by Him, Found by Him
YAARUM ARIYAATHA ENNAI NANTRAAI ARINTHU THEDI VANTHA NALLA NAESARAE.... YAARUM ARIYAATHA ENNAI NANTRAAI ARINTHU THEDI VANTHA NALLA NAESARAE.... YAARUM ARIYAATHA ENNAI NANTRAAI ARINTHU THEDI VANTHA NALLA NAESARAE.... UM AZHAGAANA KANGAL ENNAI KANDATHAALAE MUDINTHATHENTU NINAITHTHA NAAN UYIR VAAZHKINTAEN UM AZHAGAANA KANGAL ENNAI KANDATHAALAE MUDINTHATHENTU NINAITHTHA NAAN UYIR VAAZHKINTAEN UM AZHAGAANA KANGAL ENNAI KANDATHAALAE MUDINTHATHENTU NINAITHTHA NAAN UYIR VAAZHKINTAEN Meaning in English below: [Me, whom no one truly knew, You knew me completely, O loving Saviour, You came searching for me. Because Your beautiful eyes saw me, I, who thought it was all over, Am alive today.] Praise be to the Lord who speaks through songs!!! Precious Holy spirit, Fill me! Father God, I love you. May the readers be blessed. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Mark 9
Faith That Doesn’t Pretend
This morning, I ate the word from Mark 9. It's 5.50 am, and I'm sitting here at Erumeli KSRTC bus stand, waiting for a bus to Kuttikkanam - to finally attend the camp for which I've been waiting for so long. Oh Lord, Talk to me today. Make me more like Jesus, your son. Reading the scriptures with such an attitude really has an impact on me. This gives me so much joy! I was so stunned by how much Jesus was teaching His disciples! The first thing that caught me was the transfiguration. Jesus took Peter, James and John up the mountain, and suddenly His appearance changed before them. And then Moses and Elijah appeared! I was just imagining what it would have been like to SEE that! 😭 Peter immediately wanted to make three shelters, but then the voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!” That made me pause. SELAH😄. Am I actually listening to Jesus, or am I too busy trying to do something for Him? Then I noticed the disciples couldn't drive out the demon from the boy, but Jesus did it. How cool that'd be. Later Jesus says, “This kind can come out only by prayer.” That reminded me that ministry is not about my ability or experience. I need to depend on Jesus!! And then verse 24 really touched me. “I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief!” I LOVE how honest this man was. He didn't pretend to have perfect faith. He brought even his unbelief to Jesus. Maybe I also don't have to hide my struggles from Him. I can simply say, “Jesus, I believe, but help me where I don't.” And then Jesus talks about being the servant of all, welcoming children, not causing others to stumble, and even cutting off anything that causes me to sin. Following Jesus is serious! Precious Holy Spirit, help me to listen to Jesus, depend on him, bring my little faith and unbelief to him, and become a Christovert who serves rather than seeks to be great. Help the readers as well. Father God, I love you! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 30
What Fragrance am I bringing to God?
Exodus 30 I see here that there is need for a sweet smell to always be found in the presence of God, This sweet smell is not to be found in unholy places. Let us stop merging God's service with acts displeasing to the LORD, Let us enter God's presence with the smell of a broken and contrite heart that pleases Him.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Mark 8
Following Jesus Will Cost Me Me
Today I ate the word from Mark 8 and I'm so stunned by so many things about Jesus' character. Yesterday after the one-day trip, where I got to enjoy my third-favourite thing to do, that is, spending time with the water bodies, water park, water falls etc, I was so joyful and exhausted at the same time. We came back very late so I slept for more than 10 hours, and woke up very late today. Because of this reason and also because I was spending time with my family at home today, I spent the time eating the word only in the second part of the day. As I'm writing down this reflection, I'm also preparing for my next journey which will happen tomorrow, a 3-Day youth camp at Kuttikkanam, a famous tourist place in Kerala, and my heart fills with joy. This camp is very special for me because I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior in one of these camps, many many years ago! Hoorrayy! I feel so happy, I'm really going! I pray that the same Jesus whom I met many years ago will reveal Himself to me and many more children through this camp. May it be an unforgettable experience. Amen! Well, let's come back to Mark 8. In verses 1-4, when Jesus was teaching the large crowd and He realised that they had nothing to eat, He said to His disciples, “I have compassion on these people.” That word. COMPASSION. That made me pause. SELAH 😄. Am I compassionate? Am I thoughtful? I was so struck by how thoughtful Jesus was! Nobody had to come and tell Him that these people didn't have anything to eat. He Himself noticed it. And He acted upon that compassion and thoughtfulness. Wow! To become a Christovert is to follow Jesus not just in the big things, but even in being compassionate and thoughtful towards people around me. Precious Holy Spirit, help me! In verse 5, “How many loaves do you have?” reminded me of Exodus 4:2, where God is asking Moses “What is that in your hand?” God can use whatever I have, small or big. He doesn't care about the need, but about what I have to offer! Then there was one verse that made me laugh! Mark 8:14, the disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. WHAATT? THEY FORGOTTT? 😂 It's very relatable to me cuz I'd also be forgetting things like this if I was with Jesus. Then Jesus talks about the yeast of Herod and the Pharisees. Yeast spreads, and I felt Jesus was warning them about the wrong influences and heart attitudes that can slowly spread in us. The Pharisees had unbelief and hypocrisy, while Herod represented pride, power and worldly ways. Precious Holy Spirit, help me to be careful about what I allow into my heart... When the disciples thought Jesus was talking about their lack of bread, He reminded them of the miracles they had already seen and asked, “Do you still not understand?” They had seen Him feed thousands, yet they were worried about bread! How easily I also forget what Jesus has already done. Do I trust my problem more than I trust Jesus? Then I came to the story of the blind man in verses 22-26. Jesus touched his eyes, and when he opened them, he could see, but not clearly. He said, “I see people, they look like trees walking.”😂 (I wonder how a blind man know how trees look like, hehe ) Then Jesus TOUCHED HIM AGAIN, and he could see clearly. (I think this is the one and only progressive healing recorded in the gospels). That made me think. Sometimes I expect myself to understand everything immediately. I want to see clearly right away. But this man didn't see clearly after the first touch. Jesus touched him again. Maybe there are things in my life that Jesus is still opening my eyes to. Maybe there are things I only see partially right now. And that's okay. I don't want to become frustrated just because I don't understand everything yet. I want to stay close to Jesus and let Him touch my eyes again and again. And then came Peter's confession. Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” and Peter answered, “You are the Christ.” WOW! What a revelation!! But what struck me was what happened immediately after this. Peter knew WHO Jesus was, but when Jesus began telling them that He would suffer, be rejected, be killed and rise again, Peter took Him aside and rebuked Him. Peter knew the Christ, but he didn't understand the cross. And that made me ask myself, can I recognise Jesus as Lord but still want Him to do things according to MY way? Can I say “Jesus is Lord” and still struggle when His plans don't look like my plans? Peter wanted the Christ, but he didn't want the cross. And then I came to verse 34. And, I had to pause here again... “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” DENY? Yes. KEZIA SHOULD DENY HERSELF. This is what Jesus says about following Him. Not just believe in Me. Not just admire Me. Not just receive from Me. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow Me. And honestly, denying myself hurts! 🥲 Because there are still so many things in me that want their own way. My plans. My comfort. My feelings. My pride. My expectations. Sometimes I want Jesus, but I also want things to happen according to the way I want them to happen!! But JESUS says, deny yourself. Does that mean in those moments I have to say, “Jesus, not my way. Your way.” Even when I don't understand. Even when it hurts. Even when I don't feel like it? Yes. Help me Lord! And then comes verse 35, ouch! it pricked deep into my heart... “For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.” This is the heart of Jesus, isn't it? He is not hiding the cost of following Him. He is telling me clearly what it means to follow Him. I don't always want to lose my life. There are parts of my life that I want to hold on to. My dreams. My plans. My comfort. My own way. But Jesus says, lose it for My sake and for the gospel. Oof. Following Jesus is not adding Jesus to the life I already want. It is giving Him the life I have. And yet, Jesus is not asking me to lose my life for nothing. He is asking me to lose it for Him. The One who gave His life for me is asking me to give mine to Him. ❤️ Then verse 36 gave me such a reality check. “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” Like....WHAT IS THE POINT? What if I gain everything I ever wanted, but lose what matters most? What if I become successful, achieve all my dreams, have a good career, recognition, comfort, everything I planned for, but somewhere along the way I lose my closeness with Jesus? What have I actually gained? That question really stays with me!!! Because one day, everything I am trying so hard to gain here will pass away. But my soul is eternal. So what am I really living for? What am I trying so hard to gain? And what am I unwilling to lose for Jesus? And then verse 38 also made me pause. Jesus says not to be ashamed of Him and His words. If I am really willing to lose my life for Jesus, am I also willing to be unashamed of Him? Am I willing to follow Him even when it is not popular, even when people don't understand, even when it costs me something? Lord, I don't want to gain the whole world and lose You. I don't want to protect my life so much that I forget the One who gave His life for me. If following You costs me something, help me remember Whom I am losing it for. Precious Holy Spirit, teach me to deny myself. Teach me to take up my cross. Teach me to lose my life for Jesus and the gospel. Help me not just to read these words, but to live them. I don't want to just know Jesus. I want my life to look like Jesus. I want to become more and more like Him. I want to become a Christovert. Help the readers as well. Father God, I love you. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Mark 7
Does Jesus Have My Heart?
This morning I ate the word from Mark 7. As I write this, I'm sitting inside a tourist bus, along with my whole church family, going to Thrissur from Ranni. Hoorrayy... my heart is so joyful!! The song "Ee Paradevanaho namukk" (meaning - "This is the Supreme God for us") is playing in the background as I am reflecting on the Scriptures. Oh, In him we definitely have so much joy - inside-out! From this chapter, One thing that made me pause was how Jesus said, "THESE PEOPLE HONOUR ME WITH THEIR LIPS, BUT THEIR HEARTS ARE FAR FROM ME." How terrible!! Oh wait. Does that mean no matter how many songs I sing or How-much-ever I speak about Jesus, it doesn't matter until God have my HEART!? Abba, I don’t want to just look like a Christian, I want my heart to truly belong to You... Please never let me do the outward 'christian things' and have my heart far away from you.. Please help me Lord... The Syrophoenician woman’s faith also really moved me. Even when she heard Jesus say "For it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs" , She choose to not get offended. She didn't care about anything else but restoration that comes through Jesus. She still stayed, and her reply amazed Jesus. She had FAITH. A Persistent Faith! Wow. That Lady was so so determined! I want that kind of faith. And again I noticed how Jesus told people NOT TO TELL ANYONE after He healed them, but the more He told them, the more they proclaimed it. Jesus never chased fame. He wasn’t trying to become known. He came to make the Father known. Not chasing Fame while fully being used by God. That's some next level Jesus-ness! That really challenges me. As I become a Christovert, I want my heart to be transformed like Jesus... not chasing recognition, but simply living for Him. I know that's not a heart posture that comes naturally, but You, My friend, My Precious Holy spirit, my heart is all yours... Make me into the image of our beloved Jesus, please. Please help the readers as well. Father God, I love you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 29
From Morning to Evening, I Am Yours.
Exodus 29 I read about how God instructed there to be a lamb sacrificed morning and evening everyday, We also see how the LORD wanted to dwell among and fellowship with His people. So we learn that we should offer up our lives as a living sacrifice in all we do throughout the day, and spend time with our God who loves us.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Mark 3 & 4
A Christovert begins with Christ
This morning I ate the word from Mark 3 & 4. I'm sitting inside the train from Pune to Kerala and reading the scriptures while waiting to see my family - this gives me immense joy! From Mark 3 I’m reminded that Jesus looks at the heart, not just outward religious behaviour. He chose the twelve to be with Him before sending them out. That challenged me... Before I do something for Jesus, I need to learn to simply be with Jesus!! I also notice that Jesus was deeply moved by people’s hardness of heart. As a Christovert, I want to carry His compassion and not become so religious that I lose love.. In Mark 4, I read the parable of the sower and thaty made me pause. SELAH😄. The same seed was sown, but the condition of the soil determined the fruit. I need to ask myself, What kind of soil is my heart? I don't want God's Word to be something I hear and forget. I want it to take deep root, grow, and produce fruit. And when Jesus calmed the storm, He reminded me that His presence is greater than my circumstances. Even when I don't understand what He is doing, I can trust Him. Precious Holy spirit, Help me to be more like Jesus and help the readers as well. Amen!
Keziamol Varkey3 commentsRead 
Mark 5 & 6
A Christovert goes where Jesus Sends
This evening I ate the Word from Mark 5 & 6. You know what.... finally, I’m with my family and we shared a joyful time of fellowship, had good food (I love the small details😁) and I could also share about being a Christovert and how the precious Holy Spirit is transforming us into the image of our beloved Jesus. I know I'm not yet there, but it makes me so joyful when I think about what he's doing in me!❤️ When I read Mark 5, I understood that Jesus has authority over EVERY KIND of brokenness! The demon-possessed man, the woman who suffered for years, Jairus’ daughter... nothing was too difficult for Jesus. And I love how Jesus noticed the woman who touched Him in the crowd. That must be super cool! Jesus sees people others overlook. As I become a Christovert, I want to see people like Jesus does. From Mark 6, I’m reminded that a Christovert is not only someone who becomes like Christ, but also someone who goes where He sends them (ouch, that hurts). And the five loaves and two fish reminded me that what seems little in my hands can be much in His hands... Yay!! And I was amazed that Jesus was amazed at their unbelief! We also see Him being amazed at people’s faith. What would Jesus be amazed by when He sees my faith? Precious Holy Spirit, please make me more like Jesus... a little more than yesterday. Give me so much love for the people around me so that I'll go into their brokenness and declare your healing. May your presence in me overflow and reach those around me. Beloved Jesus, Oh, How I love you! Can you please increase love in me? Please help the readers as well. In the name of Jesus of Nazareth, Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
James 1:12-18
Tested, Tempted, Still Held
James 1:12-18 Dear Holy Spirit, Please draw me close to you. Don't let my heart stray from you. Your word says that you put me through tests so that I will one day receive the crown of life, because I love you. I am tempted everyday.. I admit it's only because I'm lured & enticed by my ungodly desires, that I fall in to these temptations. Sometimes, the act may be as simple as scrolling on Instagram, but the ungodly desire behind it might be subtle & sinful. Holy Spirit, help me heed your voice. I believe father that you don't change who you are, even as much as the shadow shifts when the light moves. You are good & perfect all the time and you give good and perfect gifts all the time, whether it makes me happy, or it makes me question, "Why this trial again!" Thank you Abba for bringing me forth by your gospel into a new birth Help me live in a manner worthy of it.
Dr. Diyah Ann Thomas0 commentsRead
Mark 2
Friends Who Tear Open Roofs
This evening I ate word from Mark 2. I read how Jesus forgave a paralysed man and healed him. The faith of his friends stunned me! Mark 2:4 ... "Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, THEY MADE AN OPENING IN THE ROOF ABOVE JESUS BY DIGGING THROUGH IT and then lowered the mat the man was lying on." I believe it was a lot of efforts. Oh, and it reminds me that my friendships do matter! And a beautiful thing here is, bcoz of his friend's faith, Jesus forgave his sins. Does that mean He was saved that day? So my faith for my friend's salvation actually matters to God! Wow. Another thing that made me pause and think was how Jesus sat with sinners, and being around them did not make him become like them. Instead, his presence drew them towards repentance. As I become a Christovert, I should also learn to love people without compromising the character of Christ in me. I should not isolate myself from people who need Jesus, but neither should I become like the world in order to reach the world. I want to be so rooted in Christ that when I enter someone's brokenness, I don't get pulled into it, but instead become a means through which they encounter Him. Finally, I’m reminded that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath. The Pharisees were so focused on the law that they missed the One whom the law was pointing to. This reminds me that Jesus should always be number one, not any rule, tradition, routine, or religious practice. Even good things can become wrong when they take the place of Jesus. I don’t want to become so focused on doing Christianity correctly that I miss Christ Himself. The goal is not simply to follow rules, but to follow Jesus. When Jesus is truly at the centre, everything else finds its proper place. Precious Holyspirit, Make me more like Jesus, a little more than yesterday... And please help the readers to also become like Jesus. Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 28
Whose Name Are You Carrying?
Aaron and his sons had to bear the responsibility of the tribes before the LORD In the new testament Jesus allows us into God's presence [Most Holy] Let us daily bear names of those we care for, and unbelieving friends. It is a major responsibility, it is a spiritual warfare.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Mark 1
Becoming a Christovert
Today I ate the word from the Gospel of Mark Chapter 1. Few things that amazed me are - when Jesus comes into a person’s life, He calls them to leave the old and follow Him IMMEDIATELY. Simon, Andrew, James, and John did not have everything figured out before following Jesus. They simply responded to His call. This challenges me to ask whether I am holding on to things that Jesus has already asked me to leave behind... Another important thing I noticed is that Jesus always found time to withdraw and pray. Even when crowds were looking for Him and there was so much ministry to do, Jesus went to a solitary place to pray. This reminds me that being busy for God should never become an excuse for neglecting time with God. If Jesus, who is the Son of God, intentionally withdrew to pray, how much more do I need that time with the Father? This also connects deeply with what I call being a CHRISTOVERT. When I become more like Jesus, I will naturally become more of a Christovert, someone whose life is being conformed to the image of Christ.... It is not just about doing the things Jesus did externally, but allowing His character, priorities, humility, dependence on the Father, and love to become evident in me. Another thing that stood out to me is that Jesus never seemed to chase fame or human recognition. Even when His works became known and crowds gathered around Him, He did not make popularity His goal. After healing the leper, Jesus instructed him not to publicize it. Jesus was more concerned about obeying the Father and fulfilling His purpose than becoming famous among people. That really challenges me because it is possible to do something for God and still secretly desire recognition for it. Mark 1 reminds me that my goal should not be to become known, but to make Christ known!!! Precious Holy Spirit, Help me and help the readers as well. Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Romans 1:16
Not Ashamed of Gospel
Romans 1:16 - “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” My beloved brothers and sisters, Romans 1:16 reminds us of the power of the Gospel. Paul was not ashamed of Christ because he understood that the Gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. It is not merely a message but it is the power of God for salvation, transforming lives and bringing us into a right relationship with Him. But let us honestly ask ourselves.. Are we truly following Jesus Christ? What have I done for Christ? The world can easily distract us and pull us away from God. Yet there are countless souls who need to hear the Gospel. And we have been entrusted with the responsibility of making Christ known. We cannot allow fear, shame, rejection, or worldly desires to silence us. I say this with deep love: if you feel far from God, please stop and turn your eyes toward Christ. Your soul is precious. Jesus died on the cross for our sins and offers forgiveness and salvation. If you have never truly known Him, cry out to Him: “Lord Jesus, speak to my heart. Help me know Your truth, receive Your salvation, and live as a witness of Your Gospel. Let me know Your love. Make me a servant who longs to see others come to You.” Jesus said, “You are the light of the world.” That light must shine. The Gospel should not remain hidden within us; it should be proclaimed through our words and reflected through our lives. If we truly believe, our lives should show it. Let us not only speak about Christ but let Christ be seen through us. Let us not seek to be known but let us make Christ known. Let us not be ashamed of the Gospel but let us boldly carry it to the world. We must continually feed our spiritual lives with God's Word and the truth of the Gospel. Let us look at Jesus and focus on His character, His obedience, His humility, and His love and learn to walk faithfully as He did. The Gospel changed us. Now let us allow God to use us so that others may hear it, believe it, and be changed by Christ. Precious Holy Spirit, give us boldness to stand firm, wisdom to share the Gospel, strength to take up our cross daily, and a heart that longs to see souls come to Jesus. Help us remain faithful until the end. In Jesus' name, Amen. May God bless you all...
Kewyn Varghese Mathew0 commentsRead 
Galatians 2:20; John 3:16
Not I, But Christ in Me
Passages: Galatians 2:20 & John 3:16 "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." - Galatians 2:20 What God Spoke to My Heart : When meditating on Galatians 2:20, the Holy Spirit drew my attention to the first line: our old self has been crucified. Our "old self" is the life driven by worldly desires, pride, and sin. Water baptism and our confession of faith are not just outward symbols, they are an inward declaration that we have died to the world to live completely for Christ. It is easy to get caught up in outward religious habits like attending meetings or singing songs without our inner spirit truly being anchored in repentance. But what does it profit a man if he gains the entire world, yet loses his own soul? In John 3:16 , we see the pure heart of the Gospel: God gave His only begotten Son without holding back. We were broken and rebellious, yet Jesus took our place on the cross to close the chapter of sin and open the reality of eternal life. My Application & Response: There was a time I read the Bible casually, but when I began meditating on the Word, God started revealing the true power of the Gospel to me. Dear brothers and sisters, let us take a moment to examine our own lives—let us constantly check our hearts, our daily actions, and the circles we keep to make sure they truly align with the Gospel. Every single day, let us choose to keep our selfish desires on the cross so Christ can lead us. We only get this one life on earth to run the race faithfully, so let us make it count by living out our calling and boldly sharing this Good News with everyone around us. Let's take a moment and pray 🙏: Heavenly Father, I surrender my life fully to You today. Forgive me where I have faltered. Keep my old self crucified and let Jesus truly live in me. Help me run this race faithfully so that, like Apostle Paul, I may finish my course with joy. In Jesus' name, Amen. May God bless you
Kewyn Varghese Mathew0 commentsRead 
Psalm 68:19-20
The God Who Carries Me Daily
This morning I ate the word from Psalms 68. And the verse that particularly touched me was Psalms 68:19-20 NIV. The verse goes as follows.... "Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, WHO DAILY BEARS OUR BURDENS. Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign Lord comes escape from death!!" Wow. GOD BEARS MY BURDENS? That too, Daily? Yes. The Scripture says so!! And, He’s my saviour too. Thank you Lord, for you are worthy to be praised. I always thought I have burdens but you bear my burdens daily? Does that cause you pain? Am I pleasing you daily Lord? Help me to embrace being carried by you, put my focus on you and not my burdens. Oh, Help me to be pure, Lord. You're not just my saviour but my Lord and king too. My decision maker, Help me to love you a lil more than yesterday and a lil less than tomorrow so that I will increase in love for you day by day... I fear you my King. Can you please talk to me today? Precious Holyspirit, make me more like Jesus. Help us all to know you, and not just know about you Lord, In Jesus' name, Amen....
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 27
Keep the Lamp Burning
Exodus 27 A lamp is to burn day and night before God in His house. Aaron and his sons were entrusted to keeping the lamps lit, and we Christians are the new priesthood. Let us be lights that shine the way to Christ Jesus.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Galatians 5:16-17; Psalm 46:5; Psalm 46:7
A Little More Like Jesus Than Yesterday
This morning I ate the word from Galatians 5, Psalms 46 and more. I'm very grateful to be gifted with the precious Holyspirit in me, Hallelujah! The verses that provided a lot of calories to my inner man were - Galatians 5:16-17 - So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. Psalms 46:5 - God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Psalms 46:7 - The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. The Lord is my strength and my fortress, and my heart trusts in him. He will help me at the break of the day. Lord, please help me to walk by the spirit and be an imitator of Christ. Precious Holyspirit, please make me more like Jesus - a lil more than yesterday. I love you, my King! In the name of Jesus of Nazareth, May anyone who read this be blessed... Amen!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Philippians 4:1-9
The Philippians 4 Filter
This morning I ate the word from Philippians 4: 1-9 and it strengthened me in the Lord. First of all, I felt so loved when I read these parts of Paul's letter... Haha...😄 He calls me "My sister", "Whom I love and Long for", "my Joy and crown" !! Wow. What a privilege it is to know that I'm so loved by not just the Lord - but by all the saints and the angels as well! It makes me so Joyful. Then the latter part of my meditation was filled with a reminder to REJOICE ALWAYS. and also, a reminder to not be anxious at all. I was reminded that I should be presenting my requests to God, my king - by prayer, petition and thanksgiving. And I did exactly the same. (That prayer even led to speaking in tongues which edified me). I was especially blessed to read and understand an important filter that should be there for all my thoughts. When I think about anything I should now filter.... Is it true? Is it noble? Is it right? Is it pure? Is it lovely? Is it admirable? Is it excellent or praiseworthy? Precious Holy Spirit, please help me to live a life that's worthy of the love you have loved me with by seeking wisdom from your word & Please help the readers to be blessed by this Selah. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 26
The Veil Is Torn. Come Near
Exodus 26 God instructed Moses to make a veil separating the holy and Most Holy place, where only the high priest could enter once a year We see Christ Jesus tore the veil by His death, allowing us in everyday! So let us approach God's presence everyday with reverence and gratefulness.
Samuel Simon1 commentsRead
Luke 11:5-8
Keep Knocking, Even at Midnight
Luke 11: 5 to 8 This parable teaches us that we should not be afraid to ask God for what we need. God is always ready to listen to us we just have to ask him. Like the man who went to his neighbours house and kept knocking on the door we should knock our father's door with our prayers. It is also important to notice when this story happens. It happens at night when everyone is sleeping. This is important because it shows us that even when everyone around us is busy or tired and cannot help us God is still there. Waiting to listen to us. All God wants us to do is ask him what we need. We should do this without being afraid or feeling ashamed. This is called shameless audacity. If it is God's will, everything will happen as it is supposed to. Amen!
Abel Joseph1 commentsRead
Revelation 3:14-22
When Jesus Knocks, Will I Open?
This morning I ate the word from Revelation 3:14-22. The precious Holy Spirit showed me how He knocks the door of my heart so often and invites me to a deep friendship and Fellowship with Him. He doesn't force His way in, but waits for me to clear away the noise of modern life and welcome Him. This beautiful text convicts me of my lukewarm moments and reminds me that His correction is pure love. It challenges me to open the door daily, trade my self-sufficiency for His presence, and enjoy the ultimate comfort of sharing life's table with Him. I realize now how often I let worldly comfort make me blind to my true spiritual poverty. He is offering me real gold refined in the fire, white garments for my shame, and clear sight to see what truly matters. I no longer want to sit on the fence of complacency or let the busyness of my days drown out His gentle knock. Today, I choose to repent, throw open the door completely, and let His love transform me into an overcomer who will one day sit with Him on His throne....❤️
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 25
Where God Meets Us in Mercy
Exodus 25 The LORD gives Moses instructions to build a tabernacle, and to make a 'Mercy seat' so He can dwell among His people, and meet with them, despite them being filthy and wicked. This shows that God prioritises mercy. So let us show mercy and love to those around us even if we feel they do not deserve it.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Psalms 69
Deep despair to confident praise
This morning I reflected from Psalms 69. The verses 13, 16, 30 - touched me. This psalm is a prayer of lament by David in which he is moving from deep despair to confident praise. God helped me to understand that He's not Just the God of David, but the God of Kezia too. And He's a God who answers me out of the goodness of His love, the one who comes near me, the one who rescues me and He's the one who doesn't let me sink. This psalm reminded me that even at time of despair, I should move to Praise. As I did that - He gave me a new song in my mouth (with the tone). Where can I go from your spirit? Where shall I move without your presence? Wherever I go, Whatever I do Your presence is following me Your presence is following me Your loving kindness is greater than life My lips shall Praise you my King Even in my despair, I call on your name Your precious spirit is my all in all I want you more than ever You're my king, my decision maker, My Lord I love you, Your presence is all that I need Where can I go from your spirit? Where shall I move without your presence? Wherever I go, Whatever I do Your presence is following me Your presence is following me I also am reminded to abide in Jesus, so as to bear much fruit. God bless!
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Ephesians 4:17-32, 5:1-32, 6:1-23
Focus on Jesus, Not the Battle
I meditated on Ephesians 4:17-32, 5:1-32, 6:1-23 These scriptures were like a sword to my heart. It reminded me that I should live a life worthy of the calling God has called me with. I pray for unity in the body of Christ. 4:17-32 really opened my eyes to see what's wrong. I pray to wear Christ over and over again until I become like him! 5:1 brought tears to my eyes - I'm a dearly loved child to God? Wow. That word! "DEARLY LOVED"?! By the creator of this universe?! Child?! I'm stunned. I felt like I'm reading a love letter from God. I hope that I could also live a life of Love. Ephesians 5 showed me a lot of my blind spots and led me to introspect and draw back to private conversations with my friend, the precious Holyspirit. Ephesians 6 reminded me that my focus shouldn't be on fighting the battles but wearing the full Armor of God. I have decided to wear Christ, spend more time in the scriptures and prayer, and moreover change my focus from fighting spirits of darkness to putting full Armor of God and focusing on Jesus, my champion! Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Exodus 24
A Covenant Sealed by Blood
Exodus 24 We see how God made a covenant with the children of Israel by having Moses sprinkle the blood of the offerings on the altar and the people, thereby making a promise between God and the people, to obey the LORD's judgements. In the new testament we see how Christ Jesus made the new covenant by His blood, this is a covenant based on grace. Being so privileged let us ensure that we love Jesus truly by obeying Him 100% by His grace.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Exodus 23
Follow Him Into the Promise
Exodus 23 We see God warning His people to serve Him alone, so that they be blessed and not punished We see God instructing the Israelites to obey Jesus Christ [The Angel] who will protect and bring them to the promised land. Let's follow Jesus and serve God alone so we can inherit the promises of God in the Kingdom of heaven.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Exodus 22
The God Who Hears Their Cry
Exodus 22 In this chapter, we see that God hears the cry of the widows, the orphans, the poor, the suffering... Since God is the one who hears them and takes vengeance for their sakes, we must look to God, not earthly power, and pray that His kingdom come! Let us also remember to not cause pain to anyone whom God cares for.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
1 Corinthians 10:13
Grace to Endure
No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it. We learn from this verse that even though we may go through trials and temptations, we can always trust that God is with us. He will never allow us to face more than we can handle, and He will always give us the strength to overcome.
Salome Molly Simon0 commentsRead
Psalm 125
Surrounded, But Secure
Psalm 125 1 Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever. 2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people both now and forevermore. 3 The scepter of the wicked will not remain over the land allotted to the righteous, for then the righteous might use their hands to do evil. Reflection In verse 3, God reminds us that He will not allow the wicked to have control over the lives of the righteous forever, because their influence could lead the righteous away from what is right. This shows us that God knows the unfair and difficult situations we face, and He will not allow them to rule over us forever. When we completely trust in Him, we can have confidence that He is always around us and protecting us, just as verses 1 and 2 describe. Even when we are surrounded by difficult circumstances, God will not abandon us or allow us to remain in situations that pull us away from Him. He will provide a way out and guide us toward what is right.
Aleena Ann Ajeeth0 commentsRead
Exodus 21
Justice That Loves
Scripture: Exodus 21 God's laws ensured just reprisal for anyone's deeds, such as 'an eye for an eye...' (24). In the New Testament, Christ Jesus goes a step further by showing us to love our enemies, and to suffer wrong for righteousness' sake. This shows that God is not just a God of justice, but also God of unconditional love. We must display these attributes of justice and unconditional love too.
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Exodus 20
Becoming a place where God dwells
Scripture: Exodus 20 God says I will record my name in a place and there I will come to you and bless you (24) ...we see in the future how God does the same in our lives, 'If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him' So let's be a place, a temple, where God comes down to dwell and bless His people
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
Romans 1–4:16
He is my God too!
Today was a day of spiritual warfare, breaking strongholds, confession, surrender, and deep fellowship with the Holy Spirit. As I read Romans 1, 2, 3, and 4:1–16, God opened my eyes to truths I needed to be reminded of. I am called and loved by God, and the Gospel is the power of God through which His righteousness is revealed. (Romans 1:7, 16–17) I was deeply humbled to realise that I deserve God's wrath and that I can never become righteous through my own works. Yet, I am clothed with the righteousness that comes through Christ. Romans 2 reminded me that I have no right to judge anyone else. God's kindness is meant to lead me to repentance (Romans 2:4), and today He graciously exposed my hypocrisy, self-righteousness, and many areas that needed surrender. I realised again that what God desires is a circumcision of the heart, something only the Holy Spirit can accomplish. (Romans 2:28–29) Romans 3 and 4 renewed my mind again: righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ. (Romans 3:21–24) But then I came to Romans 3:29: “Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too.” That verse struck me like lightning. He is my God too!!! I literally couldn't stop crying when I read it. I just want to be very raw in writing this. I had been so sensitive to the voice of the precious Holy Spirit, but because of my own carelessness, I felt I had missed His fellowship so much over the last few days. This morning, I woke up with so much sorrow that it led me to fasting. Through fasting, prayer, confession, and fighting with Champion Jesus on my side, He helped me recognise the guilt, condemnation, and manipulation of the enemy, especially concerning my calling. I am so grateful that God disciplines me whenever I slip and continually draws me back to Himself. Today, He renewed my mind. He restored my joy. He drew me back to Himself. And He reminded me once again that I am righteous in Christ, not because of who I am or what I have done, but because of who He is and what He has done for me.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
1 Corinthians 9:27
Practice What You Preach
1 Corinthians 9:27 - "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached it to others, I myself should become disqualified." We should make sure that we discipline our body and live according to God’s law, so that we don’t end up losing eternal life. It’s not enough for us to preach the Gospel to others; we also need to practice what we preach and keep ourselves disciplined. When other people see the way we live, they should also be encouraged to turn away from their wrong ways and come closer to God. So, while we preach the Gospel, we should also make sure that our own lives are in line with it, so that we don’t become disqualified ourselves.
Salome Molly Simon0 commentsRead
Exodus 19
Like Moses, Draw Near
In this chapter we see God revealing His awesome power and glory to His people. We must be like Moses, who had a unique relationship with God who was one of the few who pleased God. This portrays God's holiness as well as His mercy towards Moses despite his fearful and doubtful character, this mercy extends towards us too for which we can thank God!
Samuel Simon0 commentsRead
James 1 : 5-7
Ask in Faith, Not in Doubt
Many of us lack wisdom. We may have knowledge, but I think wisdom is something that comes from God by understanding His Word, looking deeper into it, and then asking God to help us with it. We need to take it to prayer with faith and without doubting. I think most of us lack many things in our lives simply because we doubt. Even after praying, we question within ourselves, and I think that's what makes us grow weary and doubtful. We should try to cut this out of our lives and be confident in God. We should pray and ask Him, and He will give us what we need. He already knows everything, but maybe He is waiting for us to ask Him so that our faith may become stronger.
Yash Maurya0 commentsRead
Reflection
Are you a Christovert?
Note: Calligraphy by Ashlyn Saimon I received a new word - CHRISTOVERTISM! When a person is in Christ and is being conformed to the image of Christ, whether that person was an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert before, that person becomes a CHRISTOVERT - like Christ. This word is not found online or in any dictionary (at least, not yet). There are no introverts or extroverts in the Kingdom of God. Only CHRISTOVERTS!! A Christovert knows when to withdraw and pray, like Jesus did. A Christovert knows when to step forward and speak, like Jesus did. A Christovert knows when to be silent, when to confront, when to comfort, when to serve, and when to love... even when it stretches beyond their natural personality.
Keziamol Varkey1 commentsRead 
Job 28:12; Job 28:23; Proverbs 2:10
Wisdom Found in God
Wisdom can only truly be found in God (Job 28:23) Job asks, “Where can wisdom be found, and where is the place of understanding?” (Job 28:12). The answer is found in fearing the Lord which means respecting Him, obeying His Word, listening to His voice, and trusting His grace. When God’s wisdom enters our hearts, knowledge becomes pleasant to our souls (Proverbs 2:10). True wisdom gives us the ability to discern between what is right and wrong. Understanding is not merely knowing what is right but choosing to live according to it. It means keeping ourselves away from evil ways, standing firm in our Christian principles, and setting ourselves apart from what is wrong. Wisdom is not simply knowing more; it is knowing God, choosing what is right, and living it out.
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Exodus 3:1-2
Using the Insignificant
Exodus 3:1-2 1 Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. Firstly let us get into a little geography, Mount Horeb is most commonly called Mount Sinai today. It is also widely known in Arabic as Jebel Musa (the Mountain of Moses). The climate here is an extreme desert mountain type and a hyper arid, rocky wilderness habitat. The summers are hot with intense daytime sun and freezing winter nights. This gives us an idea that plant life is extremely sparse, limited to drought resistant shrubs and thorny acacia trees. Yet, beyond all one resilient shrub/bush grew. If I were the bush I would have thought... God what am I doing in this place, vast mountain desert with scorching heat, visible to none, questioning the very existence. The God almighty chose this one particular bush to descend. The very bush which God used to speak to Moses in flames of fire. Similarly in our lives too we might find ourselves in the situations where you don’t know why you are placed there, when everything around you is deserted, where you have to thrive hard just to exist. Even if you manage to stand tall you question your purpose. But do not be discouraged, you might be that bush which God will choose to descend and appear in flames of fire. Every little thing mentioned in the bible is of utmost significance and you can be that burning bush God spoke through. And the rest, history speaks for itself leading Israel into the land flowing with milk and honey. God Bless!!
Christina T0 commentsRead
Jonah 1:1-5
When you know God’s will, but still run
Jonah was a Jew. He was well aware of the laws of God. Just like us, he must have been taught the importance of obeying the sovereign God from childhood. However, when he heard a command from God, his flesh overpowered him. He was not driven by confusion or uncertainty about God's word. The word of God had clearly been revealed to him, yet he chose to run away and ignore what God said. Many times, God asks us to choose paths that we would never choose. These are the times where our Christian theoretical knowledge needs to be used practically. As Christians, we are not called to run away from it, rather to face it with boldness and courage of God. Jonah knew the right path, yet he refused to choose it. This led to grave consequences. When we know the will of God, and we still choose to disobey it, we are only inviting grave consequences and discipline in our lives. Jonah's disobedience led him to be corrected by God in a harsh way. The more we disobey God, the more the whip gets sharper. We can relate this to Romans 8:1-11, which describes the carnal mind and the spiritual mind. Both of them are at constant war. The victory lies in our hands, if we choose to obey the voice of God rather than the voice of the flesh. Today, if we hear the voice of God, rather than letting flesh, fear and doubt overcome the voice of God, let us walk into His will, with full confidence that He will guide us through
Rhema Moncy Varghese0 commentsRead
Psalm 81:6-7
Burden? Not for the Great ‘I Am’
Psalm 81:6-7 (NKJV) "I removed his shoulder from the burden: His hands were freed from the baskets. You called in trouble, and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder." Many a times even as children of God, our flesh fails to discern whether our analysis of circumstances is ‘Having Faith in God’ or ‘Being Delusional’. We force ourselves to over analyze every circumstance before us, forgetting to acknowledge that the Big ‘I AM’ is in control of it all. We were never created to carry ‘burdens’. Infact, we were never created to carry them ALONE. The word says ‘Cast your burdens unto the Lord and he will sustain you’. Now the word ‘Sustain’ is an interesting choice of vocabulary. It doesn’t say the Lord will ‘help’, ‘aid’, ‘provide emotional support’ but rather it makes use of the word-sustain which means to Endure. As fellow sheep, we must remember our place in the pen and submit to our shepherd. We are all equipped for a divine assignment and once we realize that the Lord does not call the equipped but he equips the called, we will be freed of our baskets of Encumbrance. Being in the flesh, it is easier said than done but He’s still working on you, and you’ll get there in His time. Even in the midst of what may look like a ‘secret place of thunder’ He is able to bring Deliverance unto us Amen.
Jonah Kirupakaran0 commentsRead
John 5:17
God is still working. Are we?
Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.” - John 5:17 God created the heavens and the earth simply by His word. After completing creation, He rested on the seventh day. Yet His work did not end there. God continues to work every day: working in our lives, guiding us, transforming us, drawing people closer to Him, answering prayers, and making His presence known in ways we may not always recognize. Jesus reminds us that God's work is not limited to one moment of creation; it continues in the lives of every person. This should also challenge us in our own lives. We are not called to live in laziness, idleness, or constant procrastination. Rest has its rightful place, but our lives should also have purpose, discipline, and action. Just as our Father is continually at work, we too should be willing to work by using the gifts, opportunities, and time He has given us. “Am I working according to God's will?” May our work, studies, responsibilities, and service become ways through which God can work through us. God is always working. Let us not remain idle.
Michael George0 commentsRead
Job 27:8-12
Examine Yourself, Reflect Christ
Job 27:8 (Gideon Version) “For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul?” Job 27:8 (ESV) “For what is the hope of the godless when God cuts him off, when God takes away his life?” Two very powerful words are used in these two different versions: “hypocrite” and “godless.” Today, in my self-reflection, I just wanted to reflect on these two words and how they can work in my life. As humans, we have a tendency to become hypocritical sometimes. The Bible contains many verses to keep us aware of this. A famous verse quoted by Jesus in Matthew 7:3-5 reminds us to examine ourselves before pointing out the faults of others. Today, the learning that I would like to take is to think and examine myself before I speak or take any action. I should not be impulsive or wise in my own eyes. I should examine myself and ask God to change this nature in me. The second word from the ESV is “godless.” We may go to church, participate in church events, sing songs of worship, and even speak about God, yet if our hearts and lives consistently reject His ways, our outward activities do not necessarily reflect genuine devotion to Him. Jesus calls us to be witnesses of Him in this world, not known as godless. Each one of us is entrusted with a purpose, and no purpose can be fulfilled without Him. Being His witnesses means reflecting Christ in whatever we do - in school, at our workplace, and even in our church. Let people see Christ through us. Amen.
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Micah 6:6-8
What Does God Really Want From Me?
Sometimes we may think pleasing God means doing something big giving more. But Micah 6 reminds us that God looks deeper than our outward actions. He wants us to do justice which is very hard to find in this generation but I think we are the ones who must do it, and we should treat people fairly and do what is right even when nobody is watching. God wants us to love kindness and to genuinely care about others, forgive, help, and show compassion unto others. And most importantly, He wants us to walk humbly with Him. Walking with God means depending on Him every single day, listening to His Word, admitting when we are wrong, and allowing Him to guide our decisions. I feel we don't need to prove our worth to God but instead we should be faithful to Him and and let His word reflect in our daily lives So maybe we need to ask ourselves one question: Am I truly walking humbly with God in my everyday life?
Yash Maurya0 commentsRead
Job 26
The Power and Majesty of God
In this passage, Job explains how powerful, mighty, and majestic our God is. He describes how wonderfully God has created the world and how all creation stands in awe of Him. In Job 26:5, he says that the dead tremble at His presence, and even the heavens tremble at His rebuke (verse 11). Job further describes God's mighty works - how He established the earth, stretched out the heavens, and displayed His authority over creation and evil (verses 7 - 13). These things reveal that God is sovereign, powerful, and far beyond our understanding. Reflection: Even though our God is so mighty and holds all authority, He deals with us gently and quietly. He speaks to us and draws near to us with love. This reminds me that the same God who created and rules over everything is also our loving Father. His character does not change, and His love for His people is unchanging and unconditional. As Job 26:14 says, “These are but the outskirts of his ways” what we see is only a small glimpse of His greatness. Therefore, I want to stand in awe of His majesty, trust in His power, and remain thankful for His unfailing love.
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Job 25:4
God’s Holiness and Our Need for His Grace
"How then can man be in the right before God? How can he who is born of woman be pure?" - Job 25:4 Job 25 reminds us of the greatness, holiness, and authority of God. Compared to Him, human strength and righteousness are limited. This chapter encourages us to remain humble and recognize that we need God’s grace every day. We may not always understand why certain things happen in our lives, but we can still trust that God is greater than our circumstances. Instead of depending on our own abilities, we are called to place our confidence in Him and remember that our worth and hope come from His grace.
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Proverbs Chapter 1 and 2; 1 Samuel 1:1-28
The God Who Sees, Remembers, and Is Always Faithful
During my quiet time today, I spent the morning reading Proverbs Ch 1 & 2 and the evening meditating on 1 Samuel 1 :1–28. As I reflected on these passages, I was reminded of several beautiful truths about God's character. The first thing that deeply struck me was Hannah's story. Even in seasons of waiting, God doesn't leave us empty-handed. Hannah remained childless for many years because God had closed her womb, yet He didn't leave her without His goodness. God had given her a loving husband who cared deeply for her. It reminded me that while God may delay one blessing, He continues to pour out His grace in countless other ways. He is a God who compensates even in our waiting. Another truth that encouraged me was found in Hannah's prayer. She cried out to the God who sees our pain, remembers us, and never forgets what we truly need. The words, "the Lord remembered her" and "in the course of time" stayed with me throughout the day. God's timing is never late. He works beyond our timeline, and in His perfect time, He accomplishes His perfect will. Hannah's response also challenged me. She never stopped pouring out her heart before the Lord, even in the midst of her sorrow. And when God answered her prayer, she didn't forget the promise she had made. She returned to testify of His faithfulness and worship Him. I want my own life to reflect that kind of faith, not only praying while I wait but also returning with gratitude, obedience, and worship when God answers. From Proverbs 1 and 2, I was reminded that God's Word gives wisdom, understanding, and discernment. The more I treasure His Word, the more I will walk in wisdom instead of following my own desires. His Word doesn't merely fill my mind with information; it transforms the way I live and draws my heart closer to Him. One verse that especially challenged me was Proverbs 2:3–4. It doesn't simply tell us to desire wisdom. It calls us to cry out for understanding and seek it like hidden treasure. Honestly, I'm not there yet, but I pray that God will continue to grow that kind of hunger within me. As I reflected on today's reading, I came away with a deeper appreciation for who God is. 1. He is the God who sees. 2. He is the God who remembers. 3. He is the God who compensates. 4. He is the God who grants in His perfect time. 5. He is the God who is always faithful. He's so cool, and a GENIUS God! Amen.
Keziamol Varkey0 commentsRead 
Hebrews 12:1-2
Race
Dear Holy Spirit, I can't believe that Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Gideon, Ruth, Elijah and all of them are watching me right now... and even more unbelievable that they're actually cheering for me! I'm pulled down by a lot of weight today, and of course, there's sin clinging close to me which is separating me from you and slowing me down. But I choose to shake off all those things just like Jesus refused to hold on to anything other than the Father's will. Give me endurance Lord and help me run this race. Jesus, you started me on this race, and you will make my faith perfect one day, although that's difficult to believe right now. Thank you Jesus for considering me as a part of the "joy set before you" and for enduring the cross for my sake too. Thank you for thinking of me when you were on that cross. Even as you're on the throne right now, you're still thinking of me and interceding for me with the Father. Thank you Father for walking with me through all I go through, and for not being distant. ♡
Dr. Diyah Ann Thomas0 commentsRead
Job 24:24
God Sees Every Injustice
"They are exalted a little while, and then are gone... they are cut off like the heads of grain." - Job 24:24 In Job 24, Job wrestles with a difficult question: Why do wicked people seem to prosper while innocent people suffer? He describes how the poor are oppressed, widows and orphans are mistreated, and evil often appears to go unpunished. Yet, even in his pain, Job recognizes that God sees everything. Sometimes we also wonder why injustice seems to continue. We may ask, "Lord, where are You?" Job reminds us that God's timing is different from ours. Although evil may appear to succeed for a season, it will not last forever. God knows every action, and His justice will come at the right time. As believers, we are called to trust God's character even when we don't understand His timing. Instead of losing hope, we should continue to live with integrity, show compassion to those who suffer, and remember that God is always watching over His people.
Nandini Maurya0 commentsRead
Romans 8:34-39
Love of God for His children
The answer to the question 'Who can condemn us?' points us back to His expression of love. Jesus, the son of God came down to the earth, gave His life on the cross, bore our sin and punishment on his shoulders, rose from the dead and is now seated on the right hand of God. If He has justified us and redeemed us by His blood, who can then condemn us. The writer also expresses the love of God by emphasising on the fact that no power or ruler, height or depth, principalities, sword, famine or nakedness can ever seperate us from the love of God. It is divine, eternal and unconditional. No situation cannot diminish His love for us. As Christians, we will face persecution but the writer expresses the fact that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. This gives us hope to endure and continue our journey here on earth. His love for his children can never be measured. It is beyond limits and is not dependent on any factor. It is a divine love that emerges from within the heart of God.
Rhema Moncy Varghese0 commentsRead
Selah Authors
The students across Pune whose reflections make up Selah. Tap a name to read their profile and articles.
- Abel JosephWest Zone
- Aleena Ann AjeethSouth East Zone
- Christina TSouth East Zone
- Dr. Diyah Ann ThomasWest Zone
Jaden Binny MammenSouth East Zone- Jonah KirupakaranWest Zone
- Kewyn Varghese MathewNorth East Zone
- Keziamol VarkeyWest Zone
- Michael GeorgeSouth East Zone
- Nandini MauryaSouth East Zone
- Rhema Moncy VargheseSouth East Zone
- Salome Molly SimonSouth East Zone
- Samuel SimonSouth East Zone
- Serah BlessenSouth East Zone
- Symbiosis Lavale Campus GroupWest Zone
- Yash MauryaSouth East Zone
The invitation
A little space to notice God's voice.
We're inviting every ICPF Pune student to share a 150-300 word reflection from their daily Bible reading. It doesn't have to be perfect or profound. Just be honest.
Share what Scripture spoke to you, what you learned, and how you're responding. We'll feature selected reflections as articles on our website so that together we can build a culture of God's Word and encourage one another.
How to share
Your next reflection could encourage someone.
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Reflect
Write 150-300 honest words about what Scripture is teaching you and how you are responding.
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Share
Simply send your reflection in your respective ICPF student WhatsApp group which you are part of.