Good morning! Have you ever been in a situation where you felt vilified? You know, where people have lied on you or have painted a picture about you that unfairly tarnishes your character? Today we’ll read on Jesus’ encounter and first trial. Join me as we continue reading Matthew 26.

^“57 Then the people who had arrested Jesus led him to the home of Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of religious law and the elders had gathered. ⁵⁸ Meanwhile, Peter followed him at a distance and came to the high priest’s courtyard. He went in and sat with the guards and waited to see how it would all end.

⁵⁹ Inside, the leading priests and the entire high council  were trying to find witnesses who would lie about Jesus, so they could put him to death.⁶⁰ But even though they found many who agreed to give false witness, they could not use anyone’s testimony. Finally, two men came forward ⁶¹ who declared, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the Temple of God and rebuild it in three days.’” – Matthew 26:57-61 NLT

The meeting at Caiaphas’ house was the first of six trials. The leaders hired actors to give false witness, but their lies would not bring about any truth. To God be the glory, they could not use anyone’s testimony. However, two men recall what Jesus had said near the first part of his ministry, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the Temple of God and rebuild it in three days.”

Sisters and brothers, Jesus faced opposition to the point of arrest until death. You and I may have faced opposition or are currently being opposed by people we know or do not know. I want to encourage you to keep walking with the Lord. Allow the Lord to fight your battle(s) and to strengthen your faith.

• Pray for each enemy who has set themselves against you and ask God to give you discernment each step of the way.
• What situation do you need to give to God?

Dear God, creator of the heavens and earth. You alone are God. You are the source of our strength. You know every detail about us. Lord, forgive us of our sins. Lord direct our path and thoughts. Lord, help us to see ourselves as you see us. Lord, help us to embrace our new identity in you. Lord, equip us with the skills and knowledge to discern against those who come against us spiritually and physically. Lord, touch our tongues and let the words that flow from our mouths bring you glory. Lord, comfort those who are grieving. Lord, be with those who have been lied on and persecuted for one reason or another. Lord, we pray for all the inmates in prisons around the world and we ask that you set the innocent free. Lord, use us to boldly do the things that please you. In Jesus name, amen.

Keep seeking! Keep trusting! Keep praying!

If anyone has a prayer request, we would love to pray for you. Send your prayer request to:

prayerrequest@maryewhiteministries.com 

Bible Reference: http://www.biblegateway.comP

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