Seven Signs

[438 words] The book of John focuses on seven of Jesus’ miracles, and a careful study of each provides us with principles of encouragement. Disappointments? Remember when Jesus addressed an embarrassing moment by turning water into wine? (John 2:1–11). He is still the one to turn to when life turns on us. “At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me…But the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me” (2 Timothy 4:16–17). Doubts? Remember when Jesus—from a distance—healed a boy and told his father to return home, and the man went without question? (John 4:46–54). He is still the one in whom we place our faith and our dreams. After all, He is “Christ…the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). Disabilities? Remember when Jesus healed a man that had been an invalid for thirty-eight years at the pool of Bethesda? (John 5:2–9). Because of His loving providence,…