Happy Monday! It’s October 6th, 2024. Have you ever found yourself knowing what was right but not wanting to do it? Well, you’re not exactly in good company—because the religious leaders did the same. Sorry, but you're not alone. Did you know that inside each of us is a little Pharisee just waiting to grow up? It’s best to discipline that one before it does! This lesson may feel like a mirror for some, but hopefully, it will become a teacher and mentor for us all. Read on...
Today's Reading:
Ezra 7,8; Luke 20
Scripture
Jesus said:” Tell me - John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?” They discussed it and said, ‘If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us ...” So, they answered, “We don’t know...” (Luke 20:3-7)
Observation
The Pharisees knew full well that John the Baptist's call was from God, not man. Yet they realized that if they answered Jesus’ question based on this knowledge, they would condemn themselves as frauds. So, they refused to submit to their own knowledge and had to violate the truth they already knew!
Application
We can find ourselves in the same dilemma. If we're worried about what people will think, if we’re not yet able to fully trust God, or if our pride makes us resist changing our views, we’ll end up doing the same as those religious leaders. We become prisoners of our own fears and handcuff ourselves!
I must have the courage to submit to what God has already shown me. Even if I’m perceived as being wrong, I must let the truth prevail. After all, truth must win because, in the end, it always will.
Prayer
Father, You have shown me many truths, and now I submit to the truth—not to political ideology or personal bias. Please strengthen me to stand firm in what I know is true and not waver when confronted..
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