Finding true life!
Scripture reading for January 22: Matthew 16
“”Then Jesus told His disciples, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with His angels in the glory of His Father, and then He will repay each person according to what he has done. Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until the see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” Matthew 16:24-28
Peter had just made a strong confession of faith that Jesus was the Christ and the Son of the living God. (Matthew 16:16) Jesus went on to reveal to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, suffer and die but on the third day be raised from the dead. Peter rebuked Jesus for such teaching! Peter loved His Lord and did not want to hear of this happening. Jesus then rebuked Satan for using Peter to think naturally instead of spiritually! (Matthew 16:22-23) This exchange makes us examine our own world views concerning what following Jesus really means and what really leads to true life.
Jesus taught His followers that there was a cost in their chosen journey. They, as He would soon do, must take up a cross, denying themselves their own desires and life goals. They must be willing to lay down their lives to find eternal life in His eternal kingdom. His questions to them: “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” and “What shall a man give in return for his soul?” Jesus revealed His future return in glory with the holy angels to judge each person for their deeds. Each person will have to give an account. This somber truth is meant to encourage His followers to remain faithful.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for speaking plainly to me and all mankind concerning our need to follow Jesus no matter what it might cost. I have nothing to give in exchange for my soul but my faith in Jesus Christ and His death on the cross for me and His resurrection to glory. I await His return for me! Amen.
The ‘heart’ of man’s problem!
Scripture reading for January 21: Matthew 15
“And He said, “Are you also still without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.”” Matthew 15:16-20
The Jewish religious leaders of Jesus’ day had set up many rules for worship of God and often majored on these man-made rules and taught them as God’s doctrine. One such rule was on the washing of one’s hands in order to be clean when eating. Now this was a good rule for cleanliness, but Jesus taught that this was not the major cause of someone being unclean. It went deeper than surface dirt on the hands or face!
Jesus revealed that the human heart was a greater source of uncleanness. This uncleanness is revealed in words, thoughts and actions that break God’s law and bring sin’s defilement which leads to death. Murder, theft, adultery, immorality and lying, all dealt with in God’s Ten Commandments, spring from the heart of sinful man. Because of Adam’s sin, we are born with a sin nature and it comes ‘naturally’! In order to remedy this, the human heart must be cleansed of sin through repentance. Repentance comes from a humble confession of sin and a willingness to turn from it. The heart is willingly surrendered to Christ Jesus as our new “Master” instead of our sin nature. This is understanding that leads to cleansing!
Are you following human rules and effort in order to be a ‘good’ person? Have you humbly encountered Jesus’ teaching about where true defilement comes from? Have you confessed your defilement and by faith received a heart-cleansing?
Prayer: Father God, forgive me for the many ways that I have defiled my own soul through evil thoughts, hatred, lust and greed leading to idolatry. I receive Your cleansing through the blood of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.
Multiply the bread!
Scripture reading for January 20: Matthew 14
“Now when it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and by food for themselves.” But Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Then He ordered the crowd to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, He looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then He broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces left over.” Matthew 14:15-20
My mother was a great cook and always seemed to believe that whatever she had could be made to serve those present. My dad always invited people working or visiting our farm to eat with us. Some salesmen stopped by right at lunch time because of this! Mom would set more places and I believe God multiplied the bread on many occasions!
Jesus had a crowd of five thousand men plus women and children who had been with Him all day. Evening was approaching and the disciples suggested that Jesus send the people away to find food and lodging. Jesus wanted to expand their understanding of how God the Father cares for people and would use them to provide miraculously. He asked that the five loaves of bread and two fish be brought to Him. He then blessed the provision, broke it apart and gave it to the disciples in baskets. They began the distribution. As they gave the bread out, their baskets never emptied! In fact, when they were done feeding all the people, there were twelve baskets full of bread collected from left overs!
Does this story challenge your view of God’s ability to use you in supplying the needs of hurting or hungry people? What principle of God can you think of that accounts for this multiplication of bread? Has God ever used you to multiply provisions?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for seeing our needs and providing in ways that stretch our world view. Thank You for involving us in this amazing process. I am willing to be used to show Your amazing supply to those in need. Amen!
Jesus explains the Weeds!
Scripture reading for January 17: Matthew 13
“He answered, “The One Who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 13:37-42
Jesus taught in parables. His parables were illustrations taken from every-day life in Israel that helped His disciples understand the kingdom of God. In this parable of the weeds, which followed the parable of the sower, Jesus sought to relate God the Father’s declaration of how the kingdom of God would be finally established on the earth. He used a common farming illustration of seeds sown in a field and weeds growing in opposition. In this passage Jesus explained the parable of the weeds in the field.
Jesus, Himself, was the sower of ‘good seed’, the sons of the kingdom. Those who believed His Word would be adopted as sons of the kingdom. In opposition, the devil would sow ‘bad’ seed, men and women who would remain sons of the evil one. The sons of the evil one would cause others to sin and break God’s laws. At a set time, God will reap the harvest using His Holy angels. They will first gather the wicked who are residing in the kingdom and throw them into the fiery furnace. It will be a place of eternal torment, weeping and gnashing of teeth. But the righteous will shine with the glory of the Father in His kingdom forever.
How does this story change your view of the world and the conflicts going on there? How does the parable of the weeds help you understand your spiritual state and destiny? What did Jesus reveal about the consequences of a life of law-breaking and causing others to sin?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for speaking to me in stories that help me to see myself and others in light of Your declared truth about the present spiritual conflict and its conclusion. Through Jesus Christ, I can be assured of a place in Your eternal kingdom and share in His glory! Amen.
Unforgiveable sin
Scripture reading for January 16: Matthew 12
“But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or how can someone enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house. Whoever is not with Me is against Me, and whoever does not gather with Me scatters. Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will never be forgiven. And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or the age to come.” Matthew 12:28-32
Jesus Christ was filled with the Holy Spirit and did ministry in the power of the Spirit. He was in a spiritual conflict against unseen defeated demonic forces. The religious leaders of His day accused Him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Jesus knew what they were thinking and saying about Him, and told them that if He was doing that, Satan’s kingdom would be divided and could not stand. But He was casting out demons by the Spirit of God as the Strong Son of Man. This demonstrated the presence of God’s kingdom and King directly to them.
Jesus warned these religious leaders about unforgivable sin: accusing the Spirit of God as being the power of Satan. They could speak against Him and be forgiven, but not against a clear revelation of God by the Spirit. Their hard hearts and stubborn refusal to acknowledge Jesus and the kingdom of God would cause them to be eternally damned. Willful rejection of the Holy Spirit’s revelation and a decision against Jesus would have eternal consequences.
Have you ever seen or heard someone who has blasphemed God or the work of the Holy Spirit? How would you characterize your relationship with Jesus? Are you gathering with Him as a result of choosing His salvation and receiving the Gift of God’s Holy Spirit?
Prayer: Father, thank You for the Gift of Your Spirit and His work in my on my behalf. Fill me with the Holy Spirit afresh today that I may participate in the gathering of souls into Your kingdom. Demonstrate the kingdom of God through my life and witness. Amen.
Lowly in heart
Scripture reading for January 15: Matthew 11
“At that time Jesus declared, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was Your gracious will. All things have been given Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls. “ Matthew 11:25-29
In our current culture, we revere those who have degrees from prestigious universities. We hold in high esteem the scientists, engineers, politicians and technology gurus who are famous in our land. It was no different in Jesus’ day and culture. There politicians, emperors, religious leaders, and military strategists took center stage. Children were looked down on as were the women and slaves of the society. But Jesus came with a different view of life that He said was hidden from these prominent and proud members of the culture but was revealed to children and those lowly in heart.
The hidden truth concerned the identity of Jesus Christ. First, He was the Son of God the Father. No one could figure this out on their own, God must reveal it to them. All things in heaven and on earth belonged to Him because of His Father’s will. Those who considered themselves ‘wise’ and ‘learned’ would not find these essential truths. But Jesus called out to those who were humble enough to listen. If they would come to Him, they could learn this powerful truth that would bring them rest and joy. Jesus would give them a ‘lowly’ heart, like His own, and gentleness instead of harshness and violence.
Are you weighed down with a pursuit of worldly knowledge, woke acceptance, or religious duty? Are you seeking acclaim and accolades for your accomplishments? Have you responded to Jesus’ call to come to Him for rest and true understanding?
Prayer: Lord Jesus forgive me for seeking my satisfaction and praise from the ‘wise’ and ‘woke’ in our culture. I come to Jesus afresh today to learn from Him and become like Him in my heart and attitudes. I want to learn gentleness and live a life of rest and peace. Amen.
Sparrows and hairs!
Scripture reading for January 14: Matthew 10
“”And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear Him Who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges Me before men, I also will acknowledge before My Father Who is in heaven, but anyone who denies Me before men, I also will deny before My Father Who is in heaven.”” Matthew 10:28-33
There are things in life that we think are unimportant and would be a waste of God’s time and attention. Jesus brought up two of these in this discussion about what is really of value. Jesus warned His disciples not to fear those who could kill them physically but had no power over their eternal souls. He brought their attention to the common sparrow of His time. This was one of the cheaper meats on the market of Jesus’ day. Two sparrows were sold for a ‘penny,’ a very small price. Yet Jesus said that His Father would notice each fallen sparrow! Personally, Jesus pointed to the hairs on our head being numbered by our Father in heaven! Jesus’ point was that we are of greater worth than sparrows or hairs!
Jesus was encouraging His disciples to stand up and testify about Him before men. Their call was to testify to the lost world of His amazing love for mankind and His personal knowledge of each person’s life and destiny. As they obeyed their calling to affirm Jesus before men, Jesus, in turn, would also affirm them before the Father in heaven. This is not righteousness by works, however. It is by faith in Jesus that we live and our testimony of Him flows by love through relationship.
Do you struggle to give public testimony of your relationship with Jesus Christ? Do you fear what others might think of you and less about what God might think about you living in fear? What do you think Jesus will say about you before the Father? Take time to talk to Jesus about your concerns.
Prayer: Thank You for Your amazing care for creation revealed in the sparrows and hairs of our head. Forgive me for shrinking back in fear before those who might not receive testimony of Your love for them in Jesus. Fill me with such love and power by Your Spirit that I testify before all men. Amen.
“Take heart, daughter!”
Scripture reading for January 13: Matthew 9
“And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His garment, for she said to herself, “If I only touch His garment, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her He said, “Take heart, daughter, your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well.” Matthew 9:20-22
Under the Law of Moses, women who had bodily discharges were unclean and were not to touch anyone else lest they cause them to be unclean as well. This woman, an Israelite, would have lived under this law during her twelve years of bleeding. We can imagine how her self-image must have been diminished and her life limited. We are not told specifically how it happened, but this woman had a revelation that if she could just touch the fringe of Jesus’ garment, she would be healed. She found courage to act on her belief, thinking she could do this in a crowd of people and go unnoticed. After all, it was only His garment she would touch.
In spite of being on another pressing mission, Jesus felt her touch and took time look at her directly and to acknowledge her as a “daughter” in God’s family. Her deepest need was affirmation of her identity and belonging. Next Jesus recognized her faith that had caused her to reach out to touch His garment. Jesus encouraged her to ‘take heart’. Faith begins in the heart and the heart of man holds onto what they believe is God’s will and Word. When she persisted in faith, immediately, she was healed! Faith alone pleases God and can bring His loving attention.
Have you ever felt isolated and cut off from God or others because of an affliction or self-image issue? How did God help this woman to overcome her issue? Does God reach out to us or are we to reach out to God? Or both? What part of this simple story helps your understanding of overcoming issues?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for recording this simple story of a woman in deep need who acted on a belief that even touching Jesus garment would bring healing. Bring new faith to act on Your Word into my life today. Use me to encourage others to ‘take heart’ and act on God’s Word. Amen!
Jesus’ view of demons
Scripture reading for January 10: Matthew 8
“And when Jesus entered Peter’s house, He saw his mother-in-law lying sick with a fever. He touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she rose and began to serve Him. That evening they brought to Him many who were oppressed by demons, and He cast out the spirits with a Word and healed all who were sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: “He took our illnesses and bore our diseases.”” Matthew 8:14-17
Our world works to try and explain everything naturally or scientifically. We are told sickness is the result of an infection or virus or failure in our immune system. Oppression and depression are treated with chemicals to raise our moods. Counseling or therapy seeks to deal with hidden past experiences or suppressed emotions. We have so called ‘experts’ in treating each disorder and believe that human ingenuity and medicine can overcome most things.
But Jesus Christ saw the world differently and brought a different approach to dealing with sickness, disease, and oppression. He recognized the spirit world and demons as real but under His authority. He reached out to touch those who were sick and His touch released them from the sickness. Peter’s mother-in-law was instantly healed of a fever and rose to serve Jesus and His disciples. This revelation motivated others who were hurting or had loved ones in distress to bring them to Jesus. The Scripture records Jesus healing them all and casting out demons by His command. He showed that He had authority over sickness and demons who would oppress men or women made in God’s image. This was foretold by Isaiah the prophet some seven hundred years before. (Isaiah 53:4)
What is your normal approach to sickness or disease or depression? Do you go to ‘experts’ first for help? Are you aware of Jesus’ approach and Scriptures that detail our authority and privilege to ask for healing and deliverance? Is there any change you should make to your world-view regarding these issues?
Prayer: Father, I am thankful that Jesus came and revealed Your heart towards those suffering with disease, sickness and oppression. Help me to overcome my natural tendencies to deal with everything my way or just as ‘experts’ tell me. Open my eyes to Your Word and authority in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
The narrow and hard way!
Scripture reading for January 9: Matthew 7
“”So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”” Matthew 7:12-14
Our culture is very diverse and values many different choices. In America, everyone is free to choose their religion, their preferences and now even their sexual identity. People have elected representatives and leaders who have discarded ancient laws and God’s Law to legislate the choices that have been warned against by Scripture. It is evident in our elections and culture that many people are on the broad path that Jesus warned would lead to destruction. This broad path allows all to choose whatever seems right to them from their self-centered perspective (world-view). Each person does what is right in their eyes.
Jesus taught that God’s Word in the Law and Prophets outlined how we should treat others. If others mistreated us, we should do to them as we would want them to do to us as outlined by God in His Law. We should love what He loves and hate what God hates. This is the ‘narrow gate’ described by Jesus. It is a hard way because most of the world refuses to humble themselves and submit to God’s Laws and live under His love. It is this ‘hard’ way alone that leads to life eternal. The broad path is to do whatever feels good to you. This path has many followers and they are all headed towards eternal destruction.
What gate have you chosen to enter and how would you describe your current path in life? Are you living for immediate gratification or does eternity cause you to humbly ask for mercy? How have God’s Laws and prophetic warnings helped to shape your world view?
Prayer: Father, I am humbled by Your call to treat others in accordance with Your Word. Forgive me for neglecting to learn Your Word and receive instruction from it. Deliver me from the ‘broad’ path of this world, and reveal Your narrow path leading to life. Use me to help those heading for destruction. Amen.