Day 279

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Jesus' Mount of Transfiguration Depicted

Scripture

October 5—Matthew 16-19: Unveiling of the Christ

Observation

In today's reading, Jesus retires from public attention, shifting his ministry focus from the crowds to his disciples. It is time to begin preparing them for his imminent death. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus unveils his full glory to the inner circle of disciples. Following that, questions from the disciples draw out Jesus' priorities concerning prayer, faith and forgiveness.

Application

Question: What do sin and pride have in common? Answer: They both require that "I" be in the middle!

One of the greatest problems you will battle in your Christian life is "I" trouble: the tendency to forget all our "blessings in heaven because we belong to Christ" (Ephesians 1:3-14) and, in their place, substitute a lifestyle of sinful pride that demands that "I" be the center of attention. The rich young ruler questioned Jesus, "What must I do to have eternal life?" (19:16). A few verses later, Peter voiced the question that no doubt was on the minds of the other disciples as well: "We left everything to follow you. What will we get out of it?" (19:27). In each case, "I" trouble was clouding the real issue. The rich young ruler could not come to Christ until first he was willing to forsake the other "gods" in his life: his possessions. The disciples needed to learn that, though God would be no man's debtor, true happiness comes from serving Christ, not from satisfying selfish desires (19:28-30).

Write the following sentence on a three-by five card and carry it today to remind you of this important truth: "When I am in sin, or I am wrapped up in pride, the solution comes by realizing all the I am and have because I am in Christ."

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, that you satisfy and fill us with good things. We fix our eyes on you as we pray for a more obedient heart for we want to increase our faith to fully enjoy your promise. We want all the people we encounter during our walk with you to see us readily, cheerfully and continually obeying your Word. We love you and adore you with all of our heart for loving us so much that you sent us a Savior that no one needs to perish but all who believe can receive this salvation. We can't thank you and love you enough. In Jesus' name! Amen! 

God's Love for Us!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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