R³ Devotional - Day 297

John 9, which narrates the healing of a man born blind, highlights several profound truths.

Real Life Principle: 
The purpose of suffering is not always punishment for sin, but an opportunity for God's works to be displayed and for spiritual sight to be revealed.

When the disciples ask Jesus whether the man's blindness was due to his own sin or his parents' sin, Jesus responds, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him" (John 9:3, NKJV). This refutes the common ancient belief that all affliction was a direct result of specific sin.

Relevant Application:
This principle challenges us to re-evaluate our perspective on adversity and difficulty, both in our own lives and in the lives of others.

For our own struggles: Instead of immediately questioning "What did I do wrong?" we should shift our focus to "How can God's power and character be demonstrated through this?" Our endurance, faith, and transformation during times of trial can become a testament to God's grace and glory for those around us.

For the suffering of others: It cautions against judgmental attitudes that seek to assign blame or discern a specific cause-and-effect relationship between sin and suffering. Instead, it prompts us to focus on compassion and ministry—seeing the person's difficulty as an opportunity for the Church, or for us individually, to do the works of God by offering help, comfort, and the light of Christ.

The story ultimately contrasts physical sight with spiritual sight, showing how the formerly blind man gains progressive insight into Jesus' identity (from "a man called Jesus" to "a prophet" to "from God" to "Lord" whom he worships), while the self-proclaimed "seers" (the Pharisees) descend into spiritual blindness by rejecting the clear evidence of Jesus' power.

Ready Action Step:
Reflect on how the Lord opened your eyes and worship him wholeheartedly