What Jesus Did! 'Challenge to Practicality' — John 1:43

Monday, January 26, 2026

The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Come, follow me."
— John 1:43 NLT

Key Thought

Jesus found Philip in Galilee. Philip, at his best, was a practical and sensible man.[1] At his worst, Philip was earth-bound and without imagination.[2] Yet Jesus saw something special in Philip. He was of eternal value, just like any other person. However, Jesus also felt Philip had something unique to offer to the work of the Kingdom. So, led by God after a night of fervent prayer,[3] Jesus selected Philip as one of his 12 apostles. Remarkably, when Jesus called him to be his disciple, Philip followed Jesus immediately and gave up everything.

Jesus obviously sees more in us than others see, just as he did with Philip. He also gives us the opportunity to do the daring, awesome, and adventurous: to follow him and to be used by him, in mighty ways. Are you ready for adventure? Then come follow Jesus!

[1] John 1:45-46, 12:20-22.
[2] John 14:8-9.
[3] Luke 6:12-15.

Today's Prayer

Gracious and Almighty God, forgive me for clinging to my habits, my earthbound forms of security, and my fears about surrendering everything to you. Please inspire me to the courage to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. In the name of my Savior and Trailblazer, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 1:43 NLT — The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Come, follow me."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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