Many years ago John 12:24 was chosen as my personal verse for the year. During that year a ministry was “˜taken away”™. Reflecting back on that difficult and devastating time, it has been noted that that verse “˜happened”™!

A personal and beloved ministry was denied; yet, God”™s word continued to be given out ““ the personal ministry shifted. It became sacrificial in a new and deeper way.

(NIV) John 12:24 “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”

When Jesus speaks, people should be listening, for when Jesus speaks He speaks only truth.

How should you and I listen and read the words of God, the Holy Bible? With utmost respect, attention and reverence.

Truth: For a kernel of wheat to produce many seeds, it must fall to the ground and die. [This is a “˜picture”™ which Jesus gave for His followers, dying to “˜self”™ so there will be a godly harvest.]

(NASB) John 12:25 “He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal.”

Truth: Anyone who follows his own successes will lose in the end.

All who put love for God first in their life will have eternal life, for they will recognize, and accept, what Jesus Christ has done for them.

(NASB) John 12:26 “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.”

Truth: to serve Jesus, He must be followed. The operative word is “˜follow”™. Doing what we think best is not following Him ““ it is exerting self-will.

Truth: to be where Jesus is ““ is to be serving Him.

Truth: Jesus”™ Father will honor anyone who serves Jesus Christ.

To produce a harvest, a seed must die.

To be honored by God is to serve the Son, Jesus Christ.

To follow Jesus is serving Him.