Good morning! Have you ever heard something that didn’t seem right but you just brushed it off and kept going about your daily life? Then later you hear the same exact thing from the same person and it clicks in your head – hey I heard this before, maybe I should listen. Some people call this a reality check or information that is finally sinking or becoming clear. Enjoy today’s devotion as we continue reading Matthew 17.
“22 After they gathered again in Galilee, Jesus told them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies. 23 He will be killed, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead.” And the disciples were filled with grief.” – Matthew 17:22-23 NLT
This is another time when Jesus informed the disciples of his pending death and ressurection. However, this time they “were filled with grief” v. 23. The reality of what the Lord had been saying was beginning to weigh on their hearts.
Jesus knew the mission and he understood his purpose here on earth. Jesus was prepared to show His true measure of love for us.
Brothers and sisters, today, the Lord is reminding us of His love for us. His word says:
- John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.”
- John 10:15 – “Just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.”
- John 10:17-18 – “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”
Jesus voluntarily laid down his life for us.
Father God, thank you for your love for us. Thank you for demonstrating what that love truly means. Lord, no one can ever love us like you do, but Lord teach us to love like you love. Lord, break our hearts for what breaks yours. Lord, continue to remind us that you are coming back for us. Lord, help us to remain kingdom focused until the day you return. Lord, please help us who have a difficult time understanding what love really is. Lord, help us to tear down our walls that have suppressed the love you have given us. Lord, heal our brokenness and scars from the times we were betrayed by those we loved/love or who abused our love. Lord, give us discernment and wisdom on how to demonstrate the love you freely give. Lord, guard our hearts and protect it from the lives of the enemy. Lord, thank you for sacrificing your life for us. Lord, use us today to demonstrate the love you have shown us. Continue to change us. In Jesus name, amen.
Brothers and sisters keep praying! Keep seeking! Keep trusting!
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