Hearts

 N.T.#176 "Hearts"

Oct. 2023

Matthew 15-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

The Pharisees knew a lot about God, but they didn't know God. They claimed to honor God, yet their hearts were far from Him. Therefore, their worship meant nothing. It isn't enough to study the Word and not do it. Our actions and attitudes must line up with the Bible.

If they do not, then Isaiah had it right in 29:13: This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoreth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. 

It is our heart that God wants. Without faith it is impossible to please God. We don't want to worship God in vain.

LET IT GROW

But in vain they do worship Me, reaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (verse 9)

Vain means to no purpose; folly; manipulation.

We don't want to be like those Pharisees, right? We should desire our worship to be from the heart and in spirit and in truth. Keeping rules and man-made traditions is not what impresses God. Jesus wants us to make Him first in our life. Are we?

LET IT GO

Keep our heart right with You, Lord Jesus.

Direct our thoughts so we honor You with our words and actions.

Are We Honoring Our Parents?

 N.T.#175 "Are We Honoring Our Parents?"

Oct. 28, 2023 

Matthew 15-Part 1

LET IT GLOW

My husband's father is 92. He and his brother take care of him. They taken him to the doctor, buy him clothes, and provide him with a place to live (with my brother in law). To me, that is obeying the commandment, Honor your father and mother. (Their mother passed.) If we honor our parents, we will be blessed with a long life.

Was washing hands before eating a ritual, an oral law, a religious duty showing spiritual purity? The Pharisees were at it again, criticizing Jesus' disciples. Did you notice that Jesus did not answer their question. Instead, He asked another question. It dawned on me as I was riding in the car, pondering this question. Jesus went to the heart of the matter.

But He answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? (verse 3)

Well, how in the world were these religious Jewish leaders transgressing the Law? (I wonder if they were thinking this. Surely not them.) Israelites were commanded to honor their parents. (Exodus 20:12; 21:17) 

The Pharisees had a tradition that allowed them to bypass caring for their elderly parents by instead giving a gift committed to the temple. (verse 5) The practice allowed them to say, "Sorry Mom and Dad, I can't offer you financial assistance. I'm giving to God instead." By means of their tradition, they had invalidated God's Word. (verse 6) (Tony Evans)

What hypocrites! Jesus called it like it was, huh? What pretenders! Preaching one thing and doing another. 

Certainly Isaiah was right as God sees it: This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoreth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. (29:13)

Jesus knew their heart conditions. Why would the Pharisees not repent of their sins? Pride must have gotten in the way. Besides, they did not believe Jesus to be the Messiah.

Dear ones, are we guilty of this? Do we talk a good talk but not walk the talk?

LET IT GROW

In vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (verse 9)

In the Greek language, vain means random talk; babble.

The Pharisees were just babbling on with their words. Their lives did not back it up. Where was their love for their parents? Why would they not take care of them? Perhaps it so they would appear religious, giving lots of money in the Temple.

LET IT GO

Fill us with Your love, Lord Jesus.

Help us honor our parents.

Make us into giving people, meeting needs.

Traditions

 N.T.#174 "Traditions"

Oct. 27, 2023 

Matthew 15

LET IT GLOW

Traditions. when I hear that word, it reminds me of a movie about Jewish tradition. In it we see how outsiders persuaded the Jewish children to stray away. Maybe that movie was a modern application of this chapter. 

Here we go again. The Scribes and Pharisees, Jewish leaders, are causing a conflict with Jesus over a ritual. Their purpose was to scrutinize Jesus' activities. Hundreds of religious traditions had been added to God's laws, ever since the Jews returned from the Babylonian captivity. Those leaders considered the traditions equally as important as the Ten Commandments. Many traditions were not bad in that they added richness and meaning to life. However, they were not sacred. God's laws do not need changing nor additions. Traditions should help us better understand God's laws, not become laws themselves. 

Those Scribes and Pharisees considered failure to observe their traditions as disobedience to the law of God. They thought they were of moral superiority and lusted for power, but it put them at odds with God. So they came to find fault with Jesus' disciples, accusing them of breaking God's law. That is what's taking place here.

Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. (verse 2)

These Jews were not concerned with cleanliness but with ritual. Having proper hygiene does not make one holy. It was not a sign of spiritual purity. Keep in mind that these are the fault finders. they felt competition with Jesus and the disciples.

LET IT GROW

Traditions are not necessarily bad. Families pass down to generations some custom, practice, or belief to enjoy. Traditions were established by the Jews as they obeyed God's sacrificial system. 

The problem comes when traditions invalidate, cover up, camouflage, or negate the Word of God. the Pharisees taught and practiced traditions that they elevated to the level of Scripture, and that actually allowed them to ignore Scripture. (Tony Evans)

Do we have any traditions which we have made more important than God's Word? Is the fun of halloween and our participation actually causing others to stumble into evil? It isn't the sharing of candy, but dressing like evil ones that take our mind off of Jesus. We give the devil a place he should not have in our thoughts. I think churches should avoid any substitute for this evil holiday. I wish my parents had taught me it was wrong to celebrate a devil's holiday.

LET IT GO

Jesus, have first place in my heart and life.

Keep us in You Word.

How faithful You are, Savior.

Skill or Will?

 N.T.#173 "Skill or Will?

Oct. 26, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 16

LET IT GLOW

When the people recognized Jesus, the news of His arrival spread quickly throughout the whole area, and soon people were bringing all their sick to be healed. They begged Him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of His robe, and all who touched Him were healed. (verses 35-36)

Jesus came through when the sick needed His healing touch. Isn't that like our Jesus? One day the power of Jesus will rid this world of its pain and death and strife. (Rev. 21:4)

What can we learn from those folks?

• They besought Jesus.
• They begged Jesus to heal their sick loved ones.
• With humility they asked for help from Jesus.
• Their faith believed Jesus didn't need to speak to their need nor touch them for a cure, but just allowing the sick to touch the hem of Jesus' robe would do.
• There was no doubting the all-sufficiency of Jesus' power.
• No formalities was required of the Healing Savior.
• They sought an overflowing healing virtue of the Messiah.
• They heard of the faith of the woman with 12 years of bleeding that was healed by her faith.(chapter 9)

Friend, do we ask? Do we believe? Is it our desire for the Living Water to flow in and through us? Jesus does not faint nor grow weary. He is the everlasting God. He comforts those in need and strengthens the weak. Strength arises when we wait upon the Lord our God. Reign forever in our hearts, Jesus. 

LET IT GROW

He that has begun the good work will perform it. (Phil. 1:6)

Let Jesus' Spirit overflow with grace to us. Christ is in heaven interceding for us to the Father. His Word is with us; Christ is The Word. 

When we mix faith with the Word, apply it to ourselves, depend upon it, and submit to its influences and commands, then we touch the hem of Christ's garment. It is but thus touching, and we are made whole. (Matthew Henry)

If a person is not healed, it is not due to the lack of Jesus' skill, but His will. We may depend upon Jesus more when we live with a disease. We may honor and glorify God more by His not healing us on earth. Ultimately, we will be healed in heaven. This is certainly true for me with Crohn's disease.

... and as many as touched were made perfectly whole. (verse 36b)

Will we touch the heart of Jesus Christ with our faith and be made perfectly whole? He is in the whole-soul business. Just touch Him.

LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, we trust in You, believe in You, and hope in You.

"Yes, Lord," is our response to Your will.

Jesu, we love You!

Help us let go of what keeps us from fully serving You.

Sink in the Arms of Jesus, Not in Sin

N.T.#172 "Sink in the Arms of Jesus, Not in Sin"

Oct. 25, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 15 

Folks, I can say that I failed my test terribly when I fractured my bone near the ankle. The pain kept me awake in the hours of dark nights. The crutches made my hands and underarms so sore. I even taped potholders on them and it didn't help. (No walking on my foot for a month was the doctor's orders.) I wish I could say I was fine through it all, but it was not the truth. Not only was I tired, tired of hurting, sleepy, and grumbly, but was I ever a grouch! My husband was so wonderful to bring me food and help me.

Finally, a church let me borrow a wheelchair. That enabled me to get back into church services, go to the store, and just get out of the house. After a while, I was able to sit on my step stool in the kitchen and load the dishwasher, fold clothes on the couch, and feel useful again. 

But through it all, Jesus never turned His back on me and gave up on me. I finally was able to study the Word, worship God, and walk with Jesus (spiritually) again. If you have ever broken a bone, you understand this. It was my first time. Now I think breaking a bone is worse than having surgery. At least you can walk around. 

I have a deeper understanding now what "walking by faith" means. The disciples found out, too. Jesus revealed His power through miracles to them and others. It is going with Jesus where He leads, trusting Him to provide for needs, waiting patiently on Him, praising Him in the valleys.

I was reading how Swindoll applied verses 22-26. I turned his statements into questions for us to consider: Is Jesus calling you to walk with Him amidst your storm of life? Do you need Jesus to calm your storm right now? Maybe He needs to calm us, instead.

1. We sometimes feel all alone when we experience dark nights, but we aren't. If we are saved, Jesus takes up permanent residence in our life. His Spirit can reassure us, strengthen us, grow our faith, and help us know we are not alone. Keep hope, for Jesus can help us get through this storm.
2. The storms of life seem to last forever, but they will cease. Whatever we are going through, Jesus knows about it, permits it, or directs it. It won't last forever.
3. We sometimes experience dreadful moments when we think we will drown, but we don't. Jesus can renew our faith and confidence in Him. It is when we take our eyes off Jesus that we begin to sink in sin, so sink into the arms of Jesus instead. 
4. Reach out to Jesus, for He is reaching out to you. Take His hand. Let Jesus encourage you today.
5. Tests are not designed to finish us off, not even dark nights, nor raging storms. Let them drive us to our knees in prayer and lift our eyes to worship[ the Lord Jesus.

Jesus is faithful. There maybe more going on behind the scenes than we can see in this trial. He is in the waiting. Ain't nobody loved me like Jesus. Ain't nobody that could. He saved me, raised me from the ashes of sin, set my feet on a Solid Rock. 

How to be Made Perfectly Whole

N.T.#171 "How to be Made Perfectly Whole"

Oct. 24, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 14

LET IT GLOW

The disciples believed Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, especially after He calmed the wind a second time. You will recall back in Matthew 8:27 whenever Jesus calmed the wind and the waves. They were in the boat on the same Sea and the storm was filling the boat with water while Jesus slept. Shouldn't they have believed in Him back then and when it happened a second time? Where was their faith? Was Peter the only disciple at that time with enough faith in Jesus that he could walk on a troubled sea? What about us? How many times have we trusted Jesus to see us through a storm and then the next time we falter in our faith? Oh my, guilty here. 

After Jesus had healed the woman with the issue of blood for 12 years, whenever she touched the hem of His garment, fame of Jesus' ability spread abroad into all the land. (Matthew 9:26) She learned that healing came from faith in Jesus, not from His clothing. Word spread like the internet and television broadcasts news quickly after it happens.

And besought Him that they might only touch the hem of His garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole. (verse 36)

In the Greek language, perfectly means to save thoroughly; to cure, preserve, rescue; heal; save.

Only Jesus can save us inside and out. The healing and salvation comes from faith, believing who Jesus is-Savior. do you want to be made perfectly whole?

Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if a man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come unto him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. (Rev. 3:20)

Friend, have you heard Jesus calling your name to come to Him like Peter heard Jesus and walked on the water. It may not be an audible voice, but a voice speaking to your soul.

Is your need for a physical or spiritual healing?

LET IT GROW

The Scripture doesn't say how many believed in Jesus that day, touching the hem of His garment and were made perfectly, thoroughly whole. It was as many as believed Jesus had the power to save them.

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13)

From the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee, when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. (Ps. 61:2)

Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon His name while He is near. (Isaiah 55:6)

And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:13)

Except a man be born again, He cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3)

Dear one, have you been born again, spiritually? If so, heaven is waiting for you whenever you die. What about our family, neighbors, or church people?

LET IT GO

Through it all, I have learned to trust in Jesus. Have you trusted in Jesus in your situation?

God is in my story. How about you?

Father, You have been so, so good to me!

Oh the overwhelming love of God! 

Reaching Out

N.T.#170 "Reaching Out"

Oct. 23, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 13

LET IT GLOW

Reaching out when there is deep pain takes humility. Admitting we can't do it on our own and need help is difficult. But we have a Savior who knows our sufferings and needs. His love surpasses all. Let Him loosen our burdens.

The boat in which Jesus and His disciples were in, landed at Gennesaret. This was a plain fertile and well-watered northwest of the Sea of Galilee, which was also called Lake Gennesaret. It was about 3 miles long and a mile wide. It was called paradise and was the garden of princes. It could only offer physical pleasure and relaxation. However, it did not offer a permanent peace for the soul nor an eternal body. (John 14:27; John 5:24-29) Sounds like a good place to be. However, the whole vicinity flooded Jesus with sick people who begged Him to make them well.

What did the people in the land of Gennesaret show us?

• Christ was there in the area. (verse 34)
• knowing and having knowledge of Christ (verse 35)
• coming to Christ and bringing the diseased to be healed (verse 35)
• begging Christ to touch the diseased (verse 36)
• touching Christ (verse 36)
• experiencing the power of Christ and being made whole .(verse 36)

[Resource: The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible]

How blessed we are to have a Savior present, at hand, reachable, and available to make us whole. He is also able and willing to make us whole. Christ Jesus is the true Messiah, the Son of the Living God, the Savior sent into the world by God to save our soul. Such love has come to seek and to save that which was lost. (Luke 19:10) He is not willing that any should perish. (2 Peter 3:9)

Do we know people who have closed their minds and hardened their hearts to Christ? Continue to pray for them. 

LET IT GROW

The people came to Jesus for physical healing, but did they come for spiritual healing? They came to prolong their lives on earth, but did they come seeking eternal life? Do we seek Jesus to only heal our body diseases and not our sin sick soul? Do we seek His eternal plan for our life and His will in this world? He can change our life inside and out.

Jewish men wore tassels on the lower edges of their robes according to God's command. (Deut. 22:12)  Tassels were signs of holiness. (23:5) It was natural for those seeking healing to reach out and touch the tassels of his robe. One sick woman learned healing came from faith and not from Jesus' clothing. (9:19-22)

Do we seek Jesus throughout the day? Are we touching His heart in prayer and obedience? Will we love others enough to bring them to The Healer?

Keep in mind that it may not be God's will for someone to be healed. Although He healed my fractured bone, He has not healed my Crohn's disease.

LET IT GO 

Help us let go of pride and seek You, Jesus.

Help us reach out and touch You.

Give us faith that You have all power to do what Your will is.

Please save the lost reading this today.

Glory to God in the Highest.

How Strong is Your Walk of Faith?

 N.T.#169 "How Strong is Your Walk of Faith?"

Oct. 20, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 12

LET IT GLOW

Before fracturing my bone to the ankle, I took walking for granted. Simply put, I didn't think about having the ability to walk. But when I was directed by the doctor to not walk on it for a month, boy howdy did my thinking change! Although I am walking in my normal shoes without a boot, I still am careful and walk slowly. I do not want to ever go through that again. So I wonder, how is my walk of faith? Lately, it has not been strong. Peter found out how strong his walk of faith was.

When Peter and Jesus got back in the boat, the wind ceased. (verse 32) Did you notice that? Jesus was coming to His disciples during the raging storm. He was going to deliver them, no doubt. Mercy was on its way. In spite of Peter's taking his eyes off Jesus and was sinking, Peter showed he cared for Jesus and trusted his life with the Savior. After Jesus rescued Peter, he was walking with Jesus on the water. We read of no other disciple doing such an extraordinary feat. Did Peter see his weakness and Christ's strength?

Why did Peter doubt? Doubt means to waver (in opinion). 

Jesus called Peter, O thou of little faith. Remember, Jesus could see into people's hearts and minds. 

The strongest faith and greatest courage have a mixture of fear. Nothing but perfect love will quiet cast out fear. Peter's heart failed him. The lengthening out of a trial discovers the weakness of faith. (Matthew Henry)

When faith kept Peter above the mighty storm, he walked on water. It was when Peter's faith staggered that he began to sink. Peter walked as he believed. When faith is weak, prayer should be strong. When Peter cried out, Jesus saved him. Have you trusted and cried out to the Savior to save you? Where are you in your faith-walk?

LET IT GROW

Now know I that the LORD saveth His anointed; He will hear him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.  (Psalm 20:6-7)

Christ's hand is still stretched out to all believers, to keep them from sinking. 

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. (John 10:28)

Trust the hand that is powerful and gracious. Did you notice Perer's faith was big enough to get him out of the boat, to walk toward Jesus on the water, yet it was not big enough to carry him through. Mustard-seed faith must grow into tree size. 

When ordinary means are to be had, miracles are not to be expected. (Henry)

Peace comes when Christ is present. Jesus didn't command the wind and waves to cease. I wonder if He snapped His fingers and it was so. The way to be still is, to know that He is God, and He is the Lord with us.

Keep in mind, the disciples saw what happened to Peter and Jesus. They worshiped Jesus and acknowledged Him as the Son of God. 

Of a truth, Thou art the Son of God. (verse 33)

Faith is the proper principle of worship and worship the genuine product of faith. (Henry)

But without faith it is impossible to please Him; for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Do you have pleasing faith? Are we diligently seeking God?

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus!

Grow our faith and strengthen our walk.

When Fear Becomes Faith

N.T.#168 "When Fear Becomes Faith"

Oct. 19, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 11

LET IT GLOW

Impulsive Peter got out of the boat during high wind and high waves. He had recognized Jesus' voice when He told him to come. It took courageous faith for Peter to have an extraordinary experience with Jesus. Was it a hard decision for Peter? After all, he had seen first-hand Jesus multiplying the fish and bread to feed around 20, 000 people. And then Peter saw Jesus walking on the rough water, why couldn't he do the same? And Peter did just that, walking on the water for a few seconds or minutes, however long it lasted before Peter took his eyes off Jesus. 

But when he saw the wind boisterous (mighty; powerful; strong), he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. (verse 30)

Peter's faith wavered when he looked at the waves, and fear set in. We may be walking through tough situations, storms cause us to feel like we are going under, or we are just maintaining. Then we realize we can't do it alone, throw up our hands in surrender, and call out to the Savior to save us. Do we turn to Jesus in our time of trouble? 

LET IT GROW

Immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand, and caught (seize, hold up, take hold of) him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? (verse 31)

This miracle was brought to Peter by Jesus' power, not Peter's power. Immediately Jesus responded to Peter's cry for help. Jesus rebuked him for having little faith, not for having no faith. When Peter began to sink, he knew where to turn for help. The wind ceased when Jesus caught hold of Peter, took him into the boat. 

I wonder what the other disciples thought during this event. Were they tempted to join Peter? Did they think how foolish Peter was to get out of the boat? 

Why would Jesus allow His followers to go through this? The disciples worshiped Jesus and declared, Truly you are the Son of God! (verse 33)

With each new encounter, Jesus increased their understanding and deepened their experience of Him. By God's grace, they had been given an opportunity, through fearful circumstances, to come to know Jesus at a deeper level and worship Him. He is the sovereign Son of God who exercises power over all things, wants you to discover that He's bigger than your fears, and invites you to praise Him. (Tony Evans)

Slowly but surely, the disciples were coming around. Yet, they couldn't fully grasp that God the Son had become human-true God and true man in perfect unity in one person. 

Have you grasped it? God came down to earth in the for of a human so He could be the perfect sacrifice for us, our sins, paying the price for our sins so we did not have tor be punished for them. Such love!

The Lord will work out His plan for my life-for Your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. (Ps. 138:8 NLT)

LET IT GO

Jesus, You came through when I needed rescued. 

Help us let go of fear and turn to the Faithful Savior.

Help us let go of the world and hold onto You, Jesus.

You Got to Get Out of the Boat if You Want to Walk on Water

N.T.#167 "You Got to Get Out of the Boat if You Want to Walk on Water"

Oct. 18, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 10

LET IT GLOW

We left the disciples in a boat trying to stay afloat in the midst of a storm. Can you imagine the wind blowing hard and the waves high, sending water inside the boat? Were they overwhelmed? And to beat all, here comes something toward them walking on the water. (Thought it was a ghost.)

What a relief to find out it was Jesus! He assured them by saying, Have courage! It is I. Don't be afraid. (verse 27, Life Application Study Bible)

We realized that the Great I AM was taking a stroll across the body of water that was rough, high winds and waves. (Of course, Jesus created the water and wind.) This gives us reassurance that Jesus is with us amidst our struggles and when we are overwhelmed.

Look what happened next. Impulsive Peter recognized his Savior's voice. He called out to Jesus, Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water. (verse 28, NLT)  

And He said, Come. (verse 29a)

Do we read of any hesitation? Any questioning more? Peter wasn't questioning Jesus' ability nor putting Him to the test. He demonstrated what faith in Jesus could do. Peter was the only one in the boat to react in faith.

Are we listening for the voice of Jesus to speak to us? Are we still long enough to hear it? Word of God speak. Pour down like rain. Wash our eyes to see Your Majesty. Let us stay in Your holiness.

LET IT GROW

Peter got out of the rocking boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. He plopped on the water, not into it. Step by step, he made his way toward Jesus as if he were walking through snow. (Swindoll)

What courageous faith! Everything went well as long as Peter kept his eyes on Jesus., the source of his faith.

Friend, how strong is our faith? Are we willing to get of the boat of discouragement and trouble? Can we let go of those things that have us bogged down like a rope tying us inside the boat of life? Peter was alone, walking by faith without any other disciple joining him.  Even if we are alone, will we continue to live by faith, trusting the One who gave us life and breath?

LET IT GO 

I will arise when He calls my name. No more sorrow, no more pain. I will arise on eagles wings. Fall before my God.

Look up child. Your redemption draweth nigh.

Grow our faith, Jesus so we, too, can walk on water with you amidst the storms and high winds.

Has Jesus asked you to get out of your boat and come walk to Him? Experiencing the peace and the impossiblities is the only way to go.

When Waves Toss Us About

 N.T.#166 "When Waves Toss Us About"

Oct. 17, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 9

LET IT GLOW

In spite of His hectic public ministry, Jesus was never too hurried to spend hours in prayer. (Billy Graham) Are we quick to say a prayer in the morning and hastily ask God's blessings on our day. Then we go our own way, doing our own thing. Jesus spent entire night in fervent prayer to God. How different our life would be if we followed His example.

Jesus sent His disciples in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. When they were about 3 miles out, the disciples encountered:

• contrary winds (Contrary means opposite; against; antagonistic.) (verse 24)
• waves tossing the boat about (Subject to distress), maybe water splashing in the boat
• both wind and waves were pushing the boat father and farther from shore and out into open water
• this happening about 3 in the morning (verse 25), dark of the night.

Those guys were at the brink of exhaustion, trying to keep the boat afloat. Several of the guys were fishermen and had experienced it before. Have we all been there. We are fighting to stay afloat in our own boat. Financial problems come, which causes stress of marriages and family situations. Jobs become uncertain with the economy troubled. War in the world is stirring up strife. What are we to do?

How can we not see God and feel loved? The Creator of beauty of fall surrounds us. 

LET IT GROW

And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. (verse 25)

In the nick of time, the Savior comes to meet needs. Now the disciples had just seen and experienced the power of God as He multiplied the fish and bread. They saw Him heal the sick. Why did thy not pray to Almighty God to help them amidst their life-threatening situation?

Jesus was aware of His disciples' encounter on the sea. He went to them, got right there in the middle of their problem, walking on the water. (verse 26)

What an unexpected appearance and astonishing occurrence! What a scary time for the guys. The winds was blowing hard causing water to splash into the boat. They were rowing like crazy to stay afloat. No wonder they were troubled (to stir or agitate). Scared out of their wits, they were, when they saw Jesus walking toward them. They cried out in fear that it was a spirit (phantasm), a ghost. 

With tragedy impending, they had thrown their theology overboard. (Swindoll)

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. (verse 27)

In the Greek, cheer means to have courage. 

Jesus was there, so don't be afraid in this dangerous situation. Stop fearing, guys! They were not at their ropes' end. The Creator of the wind and water was amongst them. He was going to handle this. (Easy for me to say, huh? I was not there. However, I have been on the Sea of Galilee and a wind came up suddenly, rocking the boat. We were not out very far, so I was not afraid.)

Here is the Great I AM (Exodus 3:14) with the disciples. His reassuring presence and encouraging words should have calmed their hearts. 

Dear friend, just pray. That is our takeaway today. Pray before the castrophy comes, during it, and through it. Have courage, for Jesus is there with us. Invite Him in. He can give us what we need to endure it and survive it, and come out praising God.  

LET IT GO

Jesus, thank You that You have got this!

How grateful we are that You do not leave us nor forsake us!

Give us joy through it all.

Do You Make Time to Pray?

N.T. 165 "Do You Make Time to Pray?

Oct. 6, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 8

LET IT GLOW

What happened next? Jesus insisted that His disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while He sent the people home. After sending them home, Jesus went up into the hills by Himself to pray. Night fell while He was there alone. 

John 6:15 tells us more detail, considering Jesus a Prophet, Therefore, when Jesus knew that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He withdrew again to the mountain by Himself. 

The people desired the Messiah to lead Israel in revolt against the Roman conqueror, freeing them and establishing a theocratic government where God ruled and reigned over all the earth. 

Jesus wanted His disciples to be away from that. It was not time for Jesus to reign as King over all. It was time for Christ to move on, for others needed Him, and His disciples had more lessons to learn from Him. 

Is Jesus King over our life? 

LET IT GROW

Don't you know Jesus was exhausted and drained? He needed to get alone with God and pray. It would have been easy for Jesus to yield to temptations and pride. He needed strength both physically and mentally. Jesus was there to do God's will, so He needed guidance. 

What can we learn from these Scriptures?

• Christ spent time alone for prayer. (verse 23)
• Christ is the expected Messiah, though not being what they expected.
• Christ can be trusted and gives us hope.
• His presence is always with us.
• He stirs up confession and worship. 
• Christ conquers fear and nature.

Do we make room in our schedule to get alone with the Father? We need help with life's challenges and struggles. Do we let go and let God handle our impossible situation? He knows what we need and when we need it. 

LET IT GO 

We are trusting You to supply all our needs according to Your riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:19)

Nothing is impossible nor too difficult with God. 

We are overcomers. Stay in the fight. Let God hold you, dear one.

Not Enough to More Than Enough

N.T. #164 "Not Enough to More Than Enough"

Oct. 13, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW

The multitudes traveled great distances over land to reach the secluded spot where Jesus had come by boat. (verse 13) Nazareth had rejected Jesus as being King of the Jews. (13:58) Jesus was moved with compassion. (verse 14) So many people with so many needs. The Bread of Life multiplied the bread and gave for those hungry. (He can meet our physical and spiritual needs.) This One who called His disciples to follow Him, for He made them fishers of men, multiplied the two fish and fed thousands.

Did you notice that the disciples brought their "not-enough" to Jesus? Jesus blessed what they had and gave. (verses 18-19) What little can we give to Jesus, like the lad gave his lunch, so Jesus can multiply it to meet needs of others? Is it our time, talent, or treasure? Trust Jesus to multiply what we give. He can bring abundance out of deficiency. Put Jesus first and see what He can do. Our Savior can demonstrate the supernatural in the midst of your natural problem. (Tony Evans) 

LET IT GROW

What can we learn from this miracle that Jesus performed?

• Use our resources and surrender them to Christ and His purposes.
• Thank God, who is the source of our resources.
• Use what we have to meet the needs of others.
• Share hope in Jesus.
• Be an example of how God multiplies our gifts.
• Let our faith be strengthened and faith of others.

Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. (Eph. 3:20)

He is the same God today that the disciples saw perform miracles. He can do the impossible.

LET IT GO

Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God You are higher than any other; our God is healer, awesome in power, our God. And if our God is for us, then who could stop us? What could stand against us?

Holy is the Lord God of Israel.

The God of the Impossible

N.T.#162 “The God of the Impossible”

Oct. 11, 2023 

Matthew 14-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

The disciples didn't ask Jesus to perform a miracle, to do the impossible that only He can do. The cost of the food for such a large group of guests for dinner exceeded the disciples' small budget. What was available was only 5 loaves and 2 fish, so what was available would not be sufficient. Would it have been obsurd for them to ask the Creator of all things? The only solution the disciples came up with was to send the 5,000 men and their families away.

Little did the disciples know what Jesus would do with only 5 loaves and 2 fish. The Bible tells us that everyone in the crowd ate-and there were 12 basketfuls of leftovers. But in His hands God multiplied it, and it became a huge feast for the crowd. (Billy Graham)

What did the Messiah command the disciples do in order to meet the needs ofthose people? They were to tell the people to sit down in groups of 50 and 100. 

Looking at this mathematically, each of the 12 disciples would have had 16 groups of people in 100. What a task!

LET IT GROW

What did Jesus do after the people were in groups?

He blessed it, brake it, and gave it to His disciples. (verse 19)

Blessed means to speak well, thank, praise.

Jesus gave thanks and praised the Heavenly Father for the food. Do we? Do we thank God throughout the day? Are we praising Him?

Jesus showed His divine power. The disciples held the leftovers in their hands.  Did the people forget this miracle? Did the disciples forget it? Yes  In 16:9 Jesus reminded them.

LET IT GO 

Praise You Father for life, breath, beat of my heart today. 

Thank You for all Your provisions.

Help us trust in You to do the impossible.

What is Impossible?

N.T#161 "What is Impossible?"

Oct. 10, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Please pray for Israel. We ask for God's protection of His beloved nation and their enemies would be stopped.

Are you surrounded by impossibilities? Are there things that are completely out of your reach, situations you are unable to change, problems you are unable to solve? The disciples faced an impossible situation of feeding a huge crowd listening and watching Jesus. How did they handle it?

In verse 15, look what the disciples said to Jesus, the One who had performed many miracles of healing before their very eyes:

• It was evening and Jesus had healed the sick among the huge crowd.
• It was getting late, they were in a remote place. 
• Send the crowds away so they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves. 

How did Jesus respond? They need not depart; give ye them to eat. (verse 16)

In John 6, it says that Jesus asked Phillip where they could buy bread to feed all the people. (He was testing Philip.) Jesus already knew what He would do. (John 6:6) Then Philip started assessing the  probable cost. They only had a little money to buy a little bread. (There were 5,000 men plus women and children.) Jesus wanted to teach this disciple that financial resources are not the most important ones. 

We  can limit what God does in us by assuming what is and is not possible. Is there some impossible task you believe God wants you to do? God can do the miraculous, so trust Him to provide the resources needed.

LET IT GROW

Andrew popped up and told them of a boy that had 5 loves of bread and 2 fish. Now that normally would not feed 20,000 folks. But what are they for so many? (Andrew asked that question.)

Even if we worked for months, we wouldn't have enough money to feed them! (Philip replied.)

Hello guys. You had just seen Jesus, the Son of Almighty God, heal people. Don't you think He could take care of this problem? This is the Creator who made everything out of nothing, remember guys? Why didn't you ask Jesus to provide the food needed? Jesus could have commanded a full meal into the lap of everyone in the crowd. Isn't Jesus that powerful?

 But we can't be too harsh on the disciples, can we. How often do we try to reason the answer to a problem, trying to solve it ourself, and fail to turn to Jesus for the answer? Is it faith or doubt in us?

When I fractured my bone to the ankle, I kept praying for God to heal me. Well, He did, just not in my timing. I was on crutches and in a boot for 5 weeks, putting no weight on the foot. Talk about difficult! I think the pain was worse than any surgery I had had. And the confinement-our couch got so hard to sleep on. (I was not a good patient for my hubby to tend to, but he was good to serve me anyway.) Finally, God healed my bone. In fact, the doctor had to look at the first x ray in order to locate where the injury was located. God did it! So don't tell me He can't do the impossible. On whom or what are we relying? This Jesus that arose from the dead and moved the stone away from the tomb can do anything.

Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me? (Jeremiah 32:27)

LET IT GO

Yes Lord Jesus, You can do anything and in Your timing and way, too.

You know what is best for us. 

Help us to believe You can do all things. 

Are You Compassionate?

N.T.#160 "Are You Compassionate?"

Oct. 9, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

We left Jesus in a boat, grieving the death of his cousin, John the Baptist. When the people heard where He was headed, they walked from many towns to hear Him. I can picture a crowd of about 20,000 sitting on the grass along the Sea of Galilee. 

This miracle, feeding of the 5,000, is the only miracle recorded in each of the 4 Gospels. (Mark 6, Luke 9, John 6) Those writers give more insight than Matthew does. Mark 6 tells us Jesus suggested He and the disciples go off by themselves to a quiet place and rest awhile. (verse 31) He said this because so many people were coming and going that Jesus and His apostles didn't even have time to eat. However, the people ran along the shore and got there ahead of the boat. 

Jesus saw the huge crowd as He stepped from the boat, and He had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. (John 6:34)

Compassion, in the Greek language, means feel sympathy; to pity.

Previous Scriptures tell us when Jesus had and showed compassion:

• Matthew 9:36-Jesus set the possessed man (of demons) free.
• Mark 1:41-Jesus healed the leper.
• Luke 7:13-Jesus raised the dead son of a widow to life.

LET IT GROW

For He saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. (Romans 9:15) Paul is quoting Exodus 33:19.

Do you think that compassion sets apart the Christian from the world? How grateful we must be that God called us to be His children, changed, and set free from the passions of this world and sin.

Peter gives us instructions on how a Christian should live: 

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous. (1 Peter 3:8)

Do we have a tender heart and a humble mind? Are we showing compassion, love, pity, and courtesy to others? I know there are times we are to take a stand, and not compromise our beliefs and God's Word, but there are other times we are to exhibit those characteristics mentioned above. 

LET IT GO

What a loving, caring, and feeling person You were and are, Jesus!

Help us be compassionate like You, Jesus. May people see You living in us.

Fill us with Your love, overflowing to others.

Lessons to Learn

N.T.#159 "Lessons to Learn"

Oct. 6, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Sin will take you farther than you want to go. Sin will keep you longer than you want to stay. sin will cost you more than you want to pay. I think there is a song with those lyrics. This seems to be the take away from the first thirteen verses. 

What lessons can we learn from these horrible people?

• Herodias teaches us how dangerous and disastrous it is to nurse a grudge and seek revenge. Having her daughter dress like an exotic dancer, manipulate her husband in public, and call fro the unjust murder of an innocent man, John the Baptist. This adulterous woman messed up her family.
• Herod Antipas teaches us about the power of peer pressure. Instead of going back on his oath to Salome, the king cared more about what the people around him thought of him instead of doing what was right. 
• Salome teaches us about the treachery of rationalization. She convinced herself it was okay for a princess to appear half naked and perform a lewd striptease before the king and his guests. 
• This event teaches us about the seductiveness and addictiveness of sin. Sin poisons relationships, leads to greed and sometimes murder. (Swindoll's Living Insights on Matthew)

LET IT GROW

Are you holding a grudge against someone?

Do you show off in order to impress others, yet know deep down it is wrong?

Is following orders more important than doing right?

Are we willing to tell the truth to people, calling sin a sin, no matter the cost?

Will we do a self-check before leaving the house concerning our appearance, our attitude, and our priorities? 

LET IT GO

Help us love You, Jesus, with all our heart, soul, and mind.

Use our body for Your glory today.

A Disgusting Party

N.T.#158 "A Disgusting Party"

Oct. 5, 2023

Matthew 14

LET IT GLOW

Oh my, this chapter begins with an immoral family of Herod the Great. A background of Herod and his 3 sons includes:

• Caesar Augustus was the emperor of Rome when Jesus was born. 
• Herod captured Jerusalem in 37 BC.
• Herod the Great was appointed king of Judea. He married more than 10 times. He was the guy who had some of his wives and sons murdered. (Jealousy of them and didn't want them to take his throne away.) Herod had ordered the killing of babies when Jesus was born in Bethlehem.(2:16) After Herod's death, Palestine was divided among his sons. 
• Three sons survived-Aristobulus (father of daughter Herodias), Philip (who married his niece Herodias), and Herod Antipas (who married the same niece while being married to another woman).
• Keep in mind that Herodias had daughter with Philip, named Salome.

I wonder if Herodias was obsessed with being a queen. Just a thought. There was a lot of immorality and evil going on in this family. If the book of Matthew was made into a movie, it probably would be rated X. This compounding incest was violating Leviticus 18:16. 

We need to be careful that we do not participate in the sins of the family. They can be carried out through generations of the father. Often drugs, alcohol use, and sexual sins continue in families unto one comes to Jesus and stops it.

LET IT GROW

Herod Antipas heard the Truth as John the Baptist revealed the king's sins. So the king put John into prison. (Mark 6:20) Then Herod Antipas threw a big party with his officials of military and government. Salome danced in a seductive way before the guests. (Probably Herod lusted for his stepdaughter.) He made her a promise of anything for a payment for her dancing, probably while drunken. (Up to half his kingdom) The girl asked her mother's opinion as to what request to make. The mother told her to Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist. (verse 8)

And so it happened, sadly, John the Baptist was beheaded. (verse 10) It seemed that Herod did not want to kill John, but had to save his embarrassment before his guests. Then the disciples buried John's body when they heard of the matter. They told Jesus what occurred. (verse 12) When Jesus heard of John's death, He withdrew into a remote place. You will remember that John was Jesus' cousin and follower. Sometimes we need to deal with grief in solitude. 

Do we let ourself get into a situation where we have to save-face? We need to determine what is right no matter how embarrassing or painful it might be to us. 

LET IT GO 

Give us strength to carry on when our loved ones are taken away from us.

May our faith remain strong as we minister to the loving and unloving.

Rejection is Hard

N. T. #157 "Rejection is Hard"

Oct. 4, 2023

Matthew 13-Part 14

LET IT GLOW

In the rest of the chapter, we see that Jesus ended describing the Kingdom of God using parables. (verse 53) He departed from Capernaum and took a short, quick trip to His hometown of Nazareth. The trip would have taken two days on foot. It was about 49 miles uphill. It wasn't a quick trip to the store. He passed by familiar places where He played and where friends lived. Maybe childhood memories came into Jesus' mind. We don't know if His disciples stayed behind, joined Jesus, or did missional work. (We don't know if Joseph had passed away by this time.)

When the Sabbath came, Jesus taught in the synagogue. How did the people react?

• Everyone was amazed. 
• People questioned where Jesus got His wisdom and power to do miracles. (verse 54)
• They scoffed that Jesus was just a carpenter's son. 
• They pointed out that they knew Jesus mother, Mary, and His brothers, James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas. All His sisters lived among them.
• Where did Jesus learn all these thing?
• Sadly, the people were deeply offended and refused to believe in Jesus. (verse 57) 

The people of Nazareth could not comprehend how one with the origin and environment of Jesus in Nazareth could possess the wisdom which He had in His teachings. Do you hear the scoffing and sneering in their cynicism? Had they rejected Jesus, considering Him a lunatic? His own family wrote Jesus off as a lost cause. They were offended at His message. He was one of them. Because of the unbelief of the people, Jesus did few miracles in Nazareth. Those folks could not see beyond the man and hear the message from God. 

Do you sometimes question Jesus? 

LET IT GROW

When we surrendered to the ministry, both our families turned away from us. It wasn't a verbal rejection, but they seemed to leave us out of family things. One time our children did not get a Christmas present, but the other grandchildren did. That is hard.

How did Jesus answer those offended people?

A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and in his own house. (verse 57)

Unbelief blinds people to the truth and robs them of hope. Jesus neighbors and family missed the Messiah. (Yet, two of Jesus' family members, James and Jude (Judas) wrote New Testament epistles and played a prominent role in the early church, believing in Jesus as Savior.) 

Are your family and friends rejecting you as a Christian? Keep your faith in Jesus, for He never leaves us. Jesus is our pearl of great value, our treasure hidden in the field. Even when folks know us back when, keep sharing your new attitude, words, and actions with them. 

LET IT GO 

Give us strength to stand for Your Truth, Jesus.

Help us retain our passion for You, Savior.

May we continue to grow spiritually and do Kingdom work.

Keepers and Tossers of Fish

N.T.#156 "Keepers and Tossers of Fish"

Oct. 3, 2023

Matthew 13-Part 13

LET IT GLOW

Most of parables Jesus taught had to do with farming. He was in the area of the Sea of Galilee, especially the city of Capernaum and neighboring villages. Many men made their living in the fishing industry. Therefore, the disciples would have been familiar with this seventh parable. 

Jesus said the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind. when the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away. (New Living Translation)

MacArthur says some people fished by dragging a large weighted net along the bottom of the lake. When pulled in, it contained as assortment of fish that had to be sorted. 

A dragnet was pulled between two boats or taken out into the water by a single boat and drawn to shore by ropes. In such a process all kinds of fish and other objects would be caught together. The good were put into vessels, while the bad were cast away to be burned of fire (in hell). Broadman Bible Commentary)

Some of the fish were keepers and some were tossers (too small or not good for eating). Either way, the good is separated from the bad, Christians and unbelievers, hypocrites and true believers.. The net is the Gospel of Jesus and His salvation through faith.

Revelation 21 tells us such a thing. In the Day of Judgment, the just and wicked will be separated. In which group will you be, friend?

LET IT GROW

The disciples finally got it. (verse 51) The nineth and last parable in this chapter deals with a good housekeeper, who brings out his treasure things new and old. The head of the household was responsible for the nurturing, and health of those under his roof. 

Our treasures are found in the New Testament and the Old Testament. We need to understand Jesus' teachings were new to the disciples, yet the old truths were not to be cast away. The second coming of the Messiah was clearly revealed. both His first and second coming were predicted in the Old Testament. We need to live and learn and study the Word. 

Are we sharing what we are learning in the Word of God? Are we telling the Good News of Jesus? One day this old world will end. Is our family ready? We must cast the net out to bring sinners to the Savior.

LET IT GO

How marvelous are Your plans, Father.

Help us cast out our nets for others to experience what a wonder Savior we have. 

A Pearl of Great Price

N.T.#155 "A Pearl of Great Price"

Oct. 2, 2023

Matthew 13-Part 12

LET IT GLOW

Did you realize that you are a treasure which Jesus bought and hid with Himself in God? Treasure refers to a deposit; wealth. (verse 44) Believers in Jesus are His treasure, the thing He treasures. He counts us as His wealth. What an encouragement. We are priceless. (So precious that its value cannot be determined.)

The sixth parable Jesus taught, second to the disciples, 

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls. Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. (verses 45-46)

The merchant man is Christ who comes to purchase, through His atonement, sinners who shall become goodly pearls. The one pearl of great price is the church for who Christ gave His life. (Falwell)

Are you involved in a church? 

LET IT GROW

On the other hand, people are seeking that jewel of tremendous price to make them rich and happy forever. They look for it in philosophy, science, fame, wealth, technology, art, music, literature, and religion.  A true Christian is a spiritual merchant, that seeks and finds this pearl of great price. Jesus Christ is that pearl. He makes us spiritually rich, giving us blessings and wisdom. We must be willing to part with all for Jesus, leave all to follow Him. There is only one pearl of great price in this world-Jesus Christ. 

 do you know Jesus as your Savior? Are we willing to cheerfully surrender what stands in opposition to Christ? Will we stop that sin which prevents us from wholly giving our all to Jesus?

LET IT GO 

How marvelous You are, Jesus!

Thank You that salvation is free to us, not worked for, nor obtained by anything we could do.

How wonderful is the Pearl of Great Price!

by faith we come to You.

When Our Supply Runs Dry

N.T.#163 "When Our Supply Runs Dry"

Oct. 12, 2023

Matthew 14-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Are you in a difficult or impossible situation? A rebelious teenager? Employment? Medical diagnosis? Emotional struggles? Battles with sin and temptation? A failing marriage? All those can be real impossiblities for us.  Look to the One that does the impossible when our supply runs dry.

Not only were all the people filled that ate the miraculous dinner, but the disciples, too. 

Verse 20 says, And they did all eat and were filled: and they took up the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. 

With two dried, cured sardines and 5 small barley like crackers, nothing more that a small boy's snack, the Lord Jesus fed about 20,000 people. 

For an impossible task of the disciples:

• They had almost no food.
• They had no money, so divving up whatever money they had could not possibly be enough to fee this crowd.
• They didn't have the time. It had taken Jesus all day to go through the crowd healing those who were sick.
• They didn't have the energy or the manpower to feed the crowd. The disciples were hungry and exhausted, too.

Jesus was demanding the impossible of His disciples. He was testing them, for He Himself knew what He was intending to do. (John 6:6)

Instead of saying they couldn't do it, the disciples should have respoonded like Jeremiah the prophet, Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You. (Jeremiah 32:17)

Do we focus on what we can't do, or do we look to the God of possiblities? 

Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me? (Jeremiah 32:27)

 

LET IT GROW

God did not need what that lad gave willingly to share with those hungry. This insignificant offering was multiplied. What if the boy had been selfish and gobbled up his food, not willing to share it? But that was not the case.

Let's not overlook Jesus giving thanks to His Father for the food. It must not have been an elaborate pray, for folks were hungry. Any way, the prayer is not recorded. 

Another thing, the basket was a king of wicker basket that could be carried in one's arms easily enough. Not a big laundry basket, huh. Not only did Jesus provide what was needed, His miracle of multiplication produced an overabundance. There was enough leftover that each disciple could carry one basketful. Did the crowd have baskets with them? 

God's supply never runs dry. Isn't that what we see here?

LET IT GO

Supply all our needs according to Your riches in glory in christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:19)

Give us faith overflowing like the food, Jesus.