Lifted Up – Finding Life in John 3

Part 2

Opening Thought

John 3:16 is the most quoted verse in Scripture, yet sometimes the familiarity dulls its power. This verse is not simply about salvation—it is about God’s heart. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” The cross is not primarily a story of human failure, but of divine love.

Scripture Reading

John 3:16

Reflection

Israel’s healing in the desert was temporary; they eventually died, even after being healed of snakebites. But Jesus declares that His lifting up offers something eternal. Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.

Notice the verbs: God loved, God gave, so that we may believe and live. Love was the motivator; giving was the action; belief is our response; life is the result.

This is not a reluctant salvation. God didn’t save because He was forced, but because His love compelled Him. The cross is the ultimate demonstration that God would rather sacrifice His Son than lose His children.

Application

• Personalize God’s love: Write down your name into John 3:16 (“For God so loved [your name]…”). Read it aloud.

• Release unworthiness: Reflect on an area where you feel unloved or unworthy. Replace that lie with the truth of God’s deep love.

• Practice generosity: Because God gave, look for one way to give sacrificially today—whether time, encouragement, or resources.

Closing Prayer

Father, I am overwhelmed by Your love. You gave Your Son for me, not because I was worthy, but because You are love itself. Teach me to rest in this truth and let it shape every corner of my life. Help me to reflect Your giving heart in the way I love others. Amen.