PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 21:28-32
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.” (Matthew 21:31)
It is not people who say yes to God who please God, but those who do what He asks.
John’s message was to repent, to start being gracious and merciful, like God (Luke 1:1-14).
Jesus challenges the religious leaders because their actions do not agree with their words.
Much of what we do as Christians is more about doing church than about doing good.
Going to church, reading the bible, singing, praying, volunteering in the church…
These are outward religious practices that CAN be helpful toward right living.
What the Lord really wants is grace, mercy, peace, love, forgiveness, etc.
It is not just right beliefs that the Lord blesses, but right practices.
The tax collectors and prostitutes were sinners but were repentant and open to change.
They recognized their failings and eagerly looked to Jesus for help and hope.
This is what a kingdom citizen is like; admitting sin, and working with Jesus to change.
People like this will sit with Jesus at God’s table, humble sinners struggling to change.
Claiming forgiveness alone does not make a ‘christian’; it also requires claiming obedience.
As God’s loved and forgiven child, what specific things is the Lord challenging me to DO?
PRAYER
Lord, I admit that my actions fall far short from my words. Give me a gentle kick in the pants to move beyond saying I am a Jesus follower, to take my obedience to the next level with Your help!
Many times, especially in the past, I’ve been a reluctant follower of Jesus – other times, not as often, I say I will and then neglect to follow through. I’m thankful that in spite of my reluctance that Jesus has seen fit to use me in the past – and I’ve learned from that. Obedience is the important thing – whether reluctant or not – but over time I’m finding I want to follow and be like and to do what Jesus would do – still hesitating at times – questioning my ability/qualification etc. – but I want to overcome it – seeking affirmation.
And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him. v. 32b. Lord forgive my disobedience and being stubborn, Change me O Lord that I may be more trusting and obedient to what you are commanding me and not wait until I see your hands working through me.
I am a child of the King, His son. He is my Father. He has given me all that I need for living. I will always be His child, following His will for my life, showing Him love and gratitude in my living for Jesus. My daily living needs to show my love for my Father by what I say and do. Words and deeds go together. Lead me and guide me by Your Spirit Lord so that I truly live for Jesus – serving Him and not my selfish desires.
Change my heart oh God
Make it ever true
Change my heart oh God
May I be like You
Change my heart oh God
Make it ever true
Change my heart oh God
May I be like You
You are the potter
I am the clay
Mold me and make me
This is what I pray
Change my heart oh God
Make it ever true
Change my heart oh God
May I be like You