Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself. — John 12:31-32

There are many times in John's recount that Jesus says something that has a future effect that most at the moment don't understand. This is one of those moments.

What I appreciate is that Jesus takes the time to express these truths, even though he knows that his closest disciples will not understand their significance. He speaks the truth, even though it will inevitably confuse them, as it likely does John at this very moment. However, there will come a time when John does get it. It probably makes sense to him sometime between 40 days and 60 years later (between the time of Jesus's ascension and the time John pens this letter). And I suppose there were many times when John returned to this statement and discovered new insights into Jesus's prophetic wisdom, his judgment, the broken world, his death, his resurrection, and the message that would draw all people to him.

This is precisely why we, as men, husbands, fathers, and leaders, need to read, recall, and recount the teachings of Jesus. This is why we have to keep speaking Jesus's truth in this lost, woke world. We have to do this even when our family, friends, and colleagues have trouble accepting it. Because get this. There might be a time in the unforeseen future when these people that we say these things to have a moment of clarity. A moment where something we said or stood for finally sinks in, and our statement of truth might be what gives them a jolt that drives them back to Jesus.

So fellas, don't stop speaking and standing up for the truth. Your present words, as confusing as they might be to some people, may have a future effect.

ASK THIS:

1. How does Jesus's willingness to speak the truth, even when it may confuse or be misunderstood by his disciples, inspire you to boldly proclaim the teachings of Jesus in your own life?
2. Reflecting on the future impact of our present words and actions, how does this devotional encourage you to persevere in speaking and standing up for the truth, even when it seems challenging or unpopular?

DO THIS: Speak and stand up for the truth of Jesus.

PRAY THIS: God, help me to have the courage and conviction to speak your truth, even when it's hard or confusing, knowing that my words may impact someone's journey back to you. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Voice of Truth.