Daily Christian Devotional

18 January, 2026

Isaiah 49.1-7, Psalm 40.1-12, 1 Corinthians 1.1-9, John 1.29-42

Isaiah speaks of a servant called from the womb, named and known before any work is done. Even when the servant feels that labour has been in vain, God’s word stands: the calling remains, and its purpose is wider than imagined—a light to the nations, salvation reaching to the ends of the earth. God’s call is rooted not in success, but in faithfulness.

The psalmist echoes this trust, praising the God who hears the cry of the patient and sets their feet upon a rock. God’s faithfulness is proclaimed not as theory, but as lived experience. Waiting becomes testimony.

Paul begins his letter to the Corinthians by reminding them that they are called into fellowship with Christ and sustained by God’s grace. Before any correction or challenge, Paul names what is true: God is faithful, and God will strengthen them to the end.

In John’s Gospel, John the Baptist points away from himself to Jesus: “Here is the Lamb of God.” Those who hear follow, and Jesus responds with a question and an invitation: “What are you looking for? Come and see.” Faith begins in attention and grows through relationship.

Together these readings assure us that we are called, known, and upheld by God. Our task is to listen, to follow, and to trust the faithfulness of the One who calls.

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Prayer

Calling God,
you know us before we speak or act.
Strengthen us when we feel weary or unsure.
Draw us into deeper fellowship with your Son,
that we may follow, witness, and trust your grace,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.