Walking in Humility: A Lesson from Mark 10:35-45

As I look back on this day, I am filled with gratitude. The hours were filled with many events, and in the quiet of the evening, I pause to thank God for each blessing. One of the greatest joys in life is to help someone in need without expecting anything in return. That simple act carries a satisfaction that no recognition or reward could ever replace.

Later, as I turned to Scripture, I read from Mark 10:35–45. In this passage, we see James and John, two of Jesus’ closest disciples, asking for places of honor—one at His right hand and the other at His left—in the coming Kingdom. They had walked daily with the Son of God, witnessed His miracles, and heard His teachings, yet they still misunderstood His mission. Jesus did not come to claim a throne on earth or to seek glory for Himself. He came to lay down His life for our sins, to redeem us, and to reconcile us with the Father.

How often are we like James and John? Even while serving in our churches and communities, we sometimes long for recognition, influence, or a “prominent place.” Yet, Jesus consistently reminds us that greatness in His Kingdom looks different from greatness in the world. True greatness is found in humility, in serving others, and in following the example of Christ, who “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

This scripture invites me to reflect deeply: Am I seeking honor, or am I seeking to serve? Am I pursuing my own recognition, or am I following Jesus’ example of humility? Every act of kindness, every unseen service, every sacrifice done quietly is precious in God’s eyes.

As I close this day, I carry with me the reminder that greatness in God’s Kingdom is not about where we sit, but about how we serve. May I continue to walk in humility, grateful for opportunities to serve, just as Christ gave Himself for us.

Waiting on The Lord…..

 This past weekend, I had the opportunity to go on a cottage trip with my Bible Study group. It was a calm and peaceful place, surrounded by God’s creation. The stillness of the lake, the trees, and the quiet beauty of nature reminded me of the greatness of the God we serve. Being there allowed me to pause, breathe, and reflect on His goodness.

When I returned home, my grandson came by to pick up something from my house. As I looked at him, I was reminded of how much he has been through. Over the past four years, he has faced a difficult illness that changed the course of his life. His dream of pursuing basketball at a higher level was interrupted, and he even lost his scholarship because of his health struggles. Everything seemed to crumble around him, but through it all, one truth remains: God has never left his side.

Though his healing is slow and the pain he endures is real, he continues to look to God for strength. The comfort he receives comes not from the world but from the Holy Spirit, who sustains him daily. Watching him lean on his faith inspires me and strengthens my own trust in God’s promises.

The scripture that came to my mind as I thought about my grandson is from Habakkuk 2:3:

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”

This verse reminds me that God gives us a vision for our lives, but it may not unfold in the way we expect or in the timing we desire. God never lies, and His promises will always be fulfilled. Sometimes the waiting is hard, but in that waiting, we are called to trust Him.

I know that God has a purpose for my grandson’s life. Even though his path has been filled with pain and loss, I believe with all my heart that God will bless him in His perfect time. Just as the peacefulness of the cottage reminded me of God’s presence in creation, my grandson’s journey reminds me of God’s presence in suffering — guiding, comforting, and preparing him for what is to come.

 Life’s Seasons and God’s Power

It is now just past midnight on Monday, September 22nd. . As I reflect on the past two days, I see how life brings such a mix of experiences and emotions.

Sunday was a joyful day. We celebrated my husband’s birthday at Chudleighs Farm, surrounded by my two daughters, three grandchildren, and even my grandson’s girlfriend. It was a gift to enjoy laughter, family time, and God’s blessings together.

But by early Monday morning, everything shifted. My daughter experienced severe abdominal pain, and we spent much of the day at the Emergency. Worry and concern replaced the joy of the day before.

In the quiet of this early Tuesday morning, I turned to Acts 1:7–8: “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…”

These verses remind me that life’s seasons—whether of joy or of hardship—are not for us to fully understand or control. But God has given us something even greater: the power of the Holy Spirit. He is our strength, our witness, and our guide through every circumstance.

Life will always bring ups and downs, but in every moment, I am reminded that with the Holy Spirit, we have the power to endure, to overcome, and to shine as witnesses of God’s faithfulness.

 

Trusting God in Uncertain Times — A Reflection on Mark 10:32-34

Introduction
This morning, as I woke up, my heart longed to hear from God. I opened the book of Mark and read chapter 10, verses 32 to 34. In this passage, Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem. He pauses to tell His disciples what is about to happen: that He will be handed over, condemned to death, and after three days, He will rise again. This moment shows the calm confidence of Jesus as He walks toward suffering, fully knowing the victory that lies beyond it.

Body
What amazes me is how Jesus spoke of His coming death and resurrection without fear or hesitation. He had no doubt about what the Father had planned for Him. Why? Because Jesus had a daily communion with the Father. His trust was anchored not in what He saw, but in who the Father is.

This makes me ask myself: Why do I sometimes struggle to trust God in my own circumstances? God has given me promises — that He will never leave me nor forsake me, and that His plans are to prosper me, not to harm me, to give me hope and a future. Yet, when I face uncertainty, worry often fills my heart. Unlike Jesus, I allow doubts to cloud my faith.

Conclusion
Reflecting on this passage, I realize that what I need most is not more answers, but a closer walk with God. Just as Jesus was confident because of His constant communion with the Father, I too can find peace by staying close to God through prayer and His Word. My heart’s prayer today is: “Heavenly Father, help me to surrender my life into Your hands and be confident that You will never let me down.” May I choose trust over fear, knowing that the God who raised Jesus will also carry me through every uncertainty.

 

Where is your treasure??? 

Devotional Journal — Mark 10:17–31

Scripture Reading:
Today during my lunch break, I read Mark 10:17–31.

What I Observed:
In this passage, the rich young ruler came to Jesus asking how he could inherit eternal life. He had kept all the laws since his youth. Yet Jesus, seeing his heart, told him to sell all he had, give to the poor, and then come follow Him. The man went away sad because he had many possessions.

What God Is Showing Me:
This makes me ask: Where is my heart?
I can go to church, read the Bible, pray, attend studies, and help others—but am I holding on to treasures that do not honor God?

There are areas in my heart that I still cling to. Sometimes I even sense the Holy Spirit nudging me to let go, but I struggle to do it in my own strength. Yet Jesus said:

“With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27)

My Response:
I want to surrender these hidden treasures to God. I repent and ask the Holy Spirit to cleanse me and deliver me.

One area I want to confess is my love for suspense, thriller, and crime movies. These do not glorify God, and they often dull my sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Do I want to place this on the altar and let God burn it away? Yes, even though it feels hard, I want to be free.

Prayer:
Lord, search my heart. Reveal the things I treasure more than You. Give me the strength to lay them down and follow You with a pure heart.

 

🌿 Evening Journal — September 13, 2025

Today’s Experience
This evening, I visited a friend who has a beautiful backyard with a cozy gazebo. Another friend joined us. The three of us sat together, sipping warm Sri Lankan Tea and sharing our hearts.

Our Conversation
We talked about how our lives should change to please God. As we spoke, we also admitted the unpleasant things we can see in ourselves — attitudes, habits, and struggles. We realized that only through the power of the Holy Spirit can real change happen in our hearts.

Scripture Reflection — Mark 10:13–16
After coming home, I read these verses. Jesus spoke about how precious children are in God’s sight.

Children are born into sin, yet they have not learned many of the harsh and cruel ways adults do. Over the years, through hardships, rejection, and pain, our hearts can grow hard. We learn to distrust, to hold grudges, and to hide behind walls.

But children are not like that — they trust easily, forgive quickly, and remain open and vulnerable. Jesus said in Mark 10:15:

“Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

Personal Insight
Only when I allow the Holy Spirit to work in my life can I return to having a childlike heart — soft, trusting, forgiving, and full of simple faith.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me walk closer to You. Help me to surrender every part of my heart, so that You may gently change me and make me more like Your child. Amen.

---

Divorce & Remarry 

During my lunch break, I spent a few quiet moments reading Mark 10:1–12.

The words about marriage and how God joins a man and woman together really stirred my heart.

I know the Scripture is clear — that what God has joined, no one should separate.

Yet, in our communities, we see so many separations, divorces, and even remarriages among people who truly love and serve God.

I find myself deeply torn because I am currently separated from my husband. I do not want to go through with a divorce, and I have no desire to remarry. Still, I keep wondering — is it biblical for me to remain apart from him?

I know God sees my heart, but I feel unsettled, longing to know what truly pleases Him in this situation.

I want to pray and keep seeking His will in this matter.”

 Humble Attitude
 
In my devotions few days ago, I reflected on something that is valuable. To search my heart daily to see how I react to situations.  
 
In Mark 9:33–37, Jesus speaks about living a humble lifestyle. So often, we are drawn to the spotlight. We chase after positions, wealth, or education—hoping to be noticed or considered important. If we step back and quietly observe, we can see how people often react with more respect and attention toward those who have much, while giving little regard to those who have less. That reflection reveals what is in our own hearts as well.
 
But Jesus gently reminds us: “Whoever wants to be the greatest must become the servant of all.” True greatness is not found in recognition or power, but in humility and service.
 
My prayer today is that I may seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to search my heart, and to help me choose the way of humility and servant-hood.

Devotion – Mark 9:42–50

During my lunch break today, I spent time reading Mark 9:42–50. The words in this passage are very direct and strong. They remind me that sin is serious in God’s eyes and that I must pay close attention to how I live.

Jesus warns about causing “little ones” to stumble. Children are very precious to God, and as parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, pastors, or even as fellow believers in a congregation, we carry responsibility in how we treat them. Unkind words, neglect, or abuse—whether emotional or physical—can deeply harm a child and even lead them away from God. If that happens, we are accountable before Him.

This passage challenges me to search my own heart. Are there areas in my life that do not glorify Him? Sometimes it’s the things I watch on TV—my favorite shows or movies may not always honor God. Sometimes it’s the places I go or the company I keep. I realize I need to adjust my desires and choices so that they align with His will.

I cannot do this by my own strength. Only the Spirit of God can bring real change in me. But I must be willing—willing to let go, willing to surrender, willing to allow Him to shape me into the person He wants me to be.

 Reflecting on God’s Revelation in My Life

Today, I am not writing about what God spoke to me through my devotions, but taking a step back to walk through memory lane. I want to remember how God first revealed Himself to me.

It was June 1989. I was thirty years old, married, and the mother of two young daughters—one five years old and the other only five months old. At that time, I was a Buddhist, and my marriage was struggling. It was not what I expected it to be, nor did I know how to handle the challenges properly. Marriage works best when both partners share the same vision and goal, but I often wondered if we truly did.

The tension eventually brought me to a place where I had to make a difficult decision: should I continue in this marriage, or should we separate? 

Many people around me encouraged separation. But deep inside, I struggled with the thought of my children growing up without their father.

During that season, two of my colleagues, who were Christians, began speaking to me about their faith. They said, “If you come to Jesus, He can help you.” At first, I refused to listen. I didn’t hold a good impression of Christians, and I was also proud of my Buddhist identity. Yet, in one of our conversations, my friends said something that planted a seed in my heart: “Our God is a living God, and He can help people.”

One night, while my husband was away and my children were sleeping, I sat in the dark house, overwhelmed and aching inside. In my desperation, I remembered my friends’ words: “Their God is a living God and He can help people.” For the first time, I wondered, “If He is real, and if He helps others, could He help me too?”

That is when something extraordinary happened.

I suddenly saw a bright light. I heard voices, almost as though people were speaking outside my home. Then I noticed a closed door. As I looked at it, I heard a knock and a voice calling my name: “Shriyanthi, open the door.” The door opened, and standing there was someone clothed in a long white robe. I could not see a face—only a ball of radiant light, from which a beam shone directly toward me. The presence was indescribable—like light, like clouds, yet more real than anything I had known.

Then I heard the voice again: “Did you ask for prayers?” Fearfully, I replied, “No.” But the voice answered, “We know you asked for prayers; that’s why we came to pray for you.” Immediately, I heard the most beautiful song, unlike anything I had ever experienced. I was captivated, but soon my baby daughter began to cry. I picked her up from her crib, still trying to process what had just happened. I was wide awake. It was not a dream. Yet I had no words for what I had seen and heard.

The next day, I shared the experience with my two friends at work. They listened carefully and said, “You said you didn’t believe in our God. But the moment you asked Him for help, He came to you. It was God.” Then they opened their Bible to Revelation 3:20, which says: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.”

I had never read the Bible before. I did not know its words. Yet the very thing I had seen and heard was written there. That was the moment I knew God was real—and that He had come to me.

 Bible is The True Word Of God 

Today I met up with an ex-colleague for tea. Our conversation drifted toward the differences we see among denominations—differences in administration, differences in operations, and differences in practice.

As we talked, I realized how often these differences create pain among believers. Sometimes, we even end up being hurt by our own brothers and sisters in Christ. Yet the truth remains: we are not God—we are only human. At the end of it all, every one of us will stand accountable before Him.

God is the truth. His Word is the truth. No denomination, administration, or human structure can rise above that.

When I came home, I opened my Bible for my devotions, and the scripture reminded me once again that His Word is the ultimate authority. It is in Him that unity is found—not in our divisions.

Mark 9:38–41

In this passage, the disciples saw people casting out demons in the name of Jesus. They struggled to accept it because these people were not part of their group and were not walking with them as disciples. But Jesus gently explained the truth: anyone who is truly working in His name will not speak against Him. Those who stand for Jesus, even if they are not part of the “inner circle,” still belong to Him.

This reminds me of what we see in the world today. There are so many different denominations, each holding on to their own practices and revelations. Sometimes one group looks at another and thinks they are more right, or somehow better, because of a certain understanding they have. But the reality is that all true believers are following the same Lord—Jesus Christ (if they truly obey the Word of God, the Bible)

My conclusion is this: the Bible is the truth, the living Word of God. As long as a denomination is genuinely following the Word and lifting up the name of Jesus, they are for Him. No one is greater or lesser; all are part of the same body of Christ.

Surrender

 I read Psalm 88, a very heavy Psalm, which is full of lament and also a honest cry - this allowed me to look back to God’s presence in today. I felt that God is saying to me: not look back to yesterday or worry about tomorrow.   This is very much in line with Jesus’ own words: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34).

1. Honesty before God – Like the psalmist, I want to be transparent about my pain and my needs. That’s not weakness; it’s faith, because I am bringing it all to God.
2. Listening to God’s whisper – In my prayer I sensed His voice reminding me to live in today. That’s His gift, His presence right now.
3. Choosing praise – my prayer should be with surrender: to praise Him in good times and bad. That is the heart of worship, and it’s what strengthens us in the hardest seasons.

My prayer is simple, yet I want it to be very deep. 

 Forgiveness, Prayer and Dedication To His Word

Family relationships are one of the greatest blessings God gives us, but they can also be the source of deep pain. Recently, I faced a situation in my own family where I felt unheard, disrespected, and unappreciated by someone I love very much. While I know that I love my daughter, I also found myself battling anger toward her, especially when I saw my granddaughter hurting. At the same time, I am aware that my daughter is going through her own struggles and heartache. This inner conflict led me to prayer and Scripture, where I found comfort and guidance.

The Struggle
The hardest part of this situation was holding two emotions at the same time—love and anger. I love my daughter, but my frustration grew when her choices affected her own child. I wanted to protect my granddaughter, yet I also knew I could not let anger rule my heart. This tension made me realize that my own strength is not enough. I needed to turn to God for wisdom and healing.

Turning to Scripture
In my time of prayer, I read Psalm 85. The entire psalm felt like both my prayer to God and His response to me. Verse 2 reminded me that God forgives His people, and if He forgives me daily, then I must also forgive my daughter. From verse 4 onward, the psalm becomes a cry for restoration: “Restore us again, God our Savior… Will you not revive us again?”These words reminded me that my family, too, is in need of God’s forgiveness and renewal. Verse 10 gave me a picture of God’s beautiful plan: “Love and faithfulness meet together.” And finally, verse 12 gave me hope for the future: “The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest.”

The Lesson
Through this passage, I realized that forgiveness is not just a command, but also a gift. By forgiving my daughter, I am not excusing her mistakes but choosing to trust God to heal our relationship. I also see that God is teaching me to pray not only for my daughter but for my whole family, that His love and faithfulness will meet us where we are.

Conclusion
This experience reminded me that my first response in conflict must always be prayer. Instead of holding on to hurt, I want to draw closer to God, allowing His Spirit to guide me in love and forgiveness. My prayer is simple: “Lord, please keep me closer to You. Help me to forgive, to love, to learn through Your Holy Spirit, and to obey You.” I believe that just as Psalm 85 promises, the Lord will indeed give what is good, and my family will see a harvest of His grace.

Prayer Is Needed

In my life journey, prayer is something I need to do.

My sister called me today, she is not a believer in Christ  

She is going through depression 

I listened to her story, her heartache, her anxiety 

Only thing I could offer her was prayer   

She is opened to the word and prayer  

So I read the word and prayed 

But, I was thinking whether my prayer was sufficient

Because I felt like I was missing something   

Prayer is a daily walk with Jesus

Mark 9:14-29

In verse 29, we notice differences in translations:

The NIV and ESV say, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”

The KJV adds, “by prayer and fasting.”

I don’t know what the original text said. 

Jesus’ Example of Prayer, in this moment, Jesus does not stop to pray before casting out the demon. Instead, He simply gives an authoritative command, and the spirit leaves. This shows that Jesus’ authority came from His ongoing communion with the Father. We see, how often He went to solitary places to pray. Jesus lived a lifestyle of prayer, so when the need arose, He spoke and acted with divine authority.

Lesson for Us

The lesson for us is clear: prayer should not only happen in moments of crisis but should be added  into our daily lives. Prayer is communion with God, building intimacy on Him. Then, when we face challenges, we can respond with spiritual authority and confidence.

The KJV’s addition of fasting shows us the need of spiritual discipline. Regular prayer and fasting help us strengthen our faith, resist temptation, and stay tuned to God’s voice. They prepare us for  battle. 

Sweet hour of prayer

Sweet hour of prayer

That calls me from a world of care

And bids me at my Father's throne

Make all my wants and wishes known

In seasons of distress and grief

My soul has often found relief

And oft escaped the tempter's snare

By Thy return, sweet hour of prayer

Sweet hour of prayer

Sweet hour of prayer

The joys I feel, the bliss I share

Of those whose anxious spirits burn

With strong desires for Thy return

With such I hasten to the place

Where God my Savior shows His face

And gladly take my station there

And wait for Thee, sweet hour of prayer

Sweet hour of prayer

Sweet hour of prayer

And wait for Thee

Sweet hour of prayer