How To Become the Disciple Who Jesus Loves.

I used to think John was Jesus’ favourite disciple, until I realised one day that the phrase ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’ is only found in Johns own gospel.    In fact, John called himself ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’ or ‘the beloved disciple’ five times.  I’m positive Jesus loved all the disciples but it seemed only John really knew it in his heart because he proudly claimed it as his identity.  

Once you start to get an understanding of what Jesus actually did for you on the cross, it’s natural to want to do as much as you can to show your love for him.  However, I believe God wants us to boast of Jesus’ love for us, rather than our love for him. I’m fully certain he wants each of us to confidently claim “I am the disciple who Jesus loves” just like John. 

Why not try claiming this truth for yourself?  Each morning when you first get out of bed, say “I am the disciple Jesus loves”.  It might feel funny at first, but I’m confident, after just a few days of speaking out Gods love for you, it will sink into your spirit and you will begin to claim your true identity as the beloved disciple.  

If you decide to take up my challenge and start claiming Jesus’ unconditional and boundless love for yourself each day, let me know how you go.  

Declarations

O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!  Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has delivered from the hand of the adversary

Psalm 107:1, 2 (AMP)

I’ve been thinking a lot about declarations of late and how there is power in the words we speak.

To declare means:

• To make known formally or officially
• To state emphatically or authoritatively; affirm.
• To reveal or make manifest; show.

The words you speak are powerful; remember God spoke this whole world into existence by His Word.  Since we are created in His image, we have the power and authority to make declarations over our own lives.

Each week in church, we stand and repeat The Nicene Creed.  This Creed is a declaration of what we believe spiritually as a congregation.

On Sundays, when I take communion, I go back to my seat with the wafer in my hand and I make my own declaration to my Jesus.  This is a powerful reminder to keep my eyes on my saviour and all he has done for me.  It is also a reminder to me of where I stand in the sight of my Father God.

This is my own personal declaration:

“By your stripes I am healed,

By your blood, I am washed clean,

By your broken body, I am made whole,

By the crown of thorns you wore, I now wear a crown of salvation,

By your nakedness, I am clothed with a robe of righteousness,

And by your sacrifice and your substitutionary death on the cross, I can boldly stand before my Daddy God.  

Thank you Jesus for all you have done for me.”

What do you think of declarations?  Do you have your own?