Good morning! Today is Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Aaron Cordeiro here, and I’m honored to share devotions with you today. Some say, “It doesn’t hurt to ask,” but this time was different. The Pharisees’ questions revealed a dark spot that would cloud any future revelation. The same can happen to us. Read on…
Today's Reading:
Numbers 34,35,36; Mark 11
Scripture
The Pharisees asked, “Who gave you authority to do this?” Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? They answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” (Mark 11:29,33)
Observation
The religious leaders weren’t seeking truth. Their question about Jesus’ authority wasn’t genuine; it was a trap. Jesus knew this, so He countered with a question of His own that would expose their motives: “John’s baptism—was it from heaven or of human origin?”
The Pharisees huddled. “If we say ‘from heaven,’ He’ll ask why we didn’t obey Him. But if we say ‘from man,’ the people will turn against us.” Faced with the risk of either upsetting the people or exposing their own pride, they chose the safest answer: “We don’t know.”
Application
Any commitment would compel them to obey. So instead, they chose to play it safe. They straddled the lines. Sat on the fence. Inbetwixt and between.
However, if we can’t be accountable to the truths that we already know, why would God reveal truths we don’t yet know? Like the Pharisees, Jesus won’t answer questions that reveal truth we refuse to submit to.
God’s best for us requires more than just asking—it requires a heart willing to obey.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your mercy and grace. Keep my heart open to You, and purify my motives as I seek answers. Help me to ask with a heart ready to obey, never letting fear or pride keep me from Your truth. Amen.