READ:
Matthew 16
It is easy to constantly demand “signs” or “confirmations” from God.
Jesus did many miracles, but this never satisfied the prideful, unbelieving,
unrepentant hearts of some. We too must be careful when we ask for “signs” or
“confirmations”. Is it out of a desire to truly know God’s Will and obey Him?
Or is it from a heart that constantly wants to be wowed? Or are we really
wanting to keep living our own way and demand that God do something big to try to get us on track? It is
“adulterous” to give our allegiance to our own wills and desires! If this is
our heart, God will not quickly respond to our shallow demands for more
“proof”.
Jesus also tells his disciples to watch out for those who have such an
allegiance to other things and are obviously deceptive. In doing so, He warns
about their “yeast”, representing teaching. It’s kind of funny that the
disciples again have food on the brain! Jesus corrects them and challenges
their unbelief. We can hear Him saying – “guys, don’t you get it! Don’t you
remember what I’ve done, and what I’ve taught – that your Father knows you need
food. I’m talking about the Pharisees here!”
Sometimes we miss out on what God’s saying because we forget what He’s
already done or said. Often He’s saying – “don’t you remember?” It’s on us to
intentionally review what He’s done before we ask for further signs or
confirmations. We can’t emphasize this enough – He’s looking for faith! Truly
we need supernatural help in “getting it”! Even Peter’s confession of who Jesus
is in this chapter revealed to Him by the Father! Even the authority the
disciples receive is from God!
The poor disciples must have had so much on their minds! Often they
would only figure out things later on. This chapter also tells us that Jesus
began to speak about His death and resurrection. This too they did not get!
Even Peter, who so boldly had declared Jesus’ identity, has to be sternly
rebuked when He tries to suggest a different plan. The interactions of Jesus
with both the religious leaders and the disciples should encourage us – let’s
get our hearts right, but also let’s be patient with ourselves if it takes some
time to get it all!
JOURNALING
AND PRAYER
1.
It’s vital that we regularly review what God has already revealed to us
and done in our lives. Often He’s provided all the confirmation we need.
Consider this – what areas are you needing God’s wisdom on? Now ask - what has
He already said to you on the matter – either in prayer or in His Word?
2.
Do you at times struggle to trust God? The disciples did and they walked
beside Him! Spend some time thinking about God’s acts. Think about what He did
in His Word. Think about what He’s done in your life. Then think about what
He’s done in other’s lives. This can be a faith booster! Perhaps make a
commitment to read a really good Christian biography, to grow your trust.
3.
Peter was so zealous, so passionate, so ready to step up for Jesus. He
was also SO wrong sometimes. Ask God to show you where He loves your zeal. Also
ask Him to show you where you are wrong. Do any necessary thanksgiving,
confessing or make any further commitments.
