Today’s scripture: Mark 11:26-33 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
When your authority is challenged, as Jesus’ was, what is your reaction? It could be:
- I become paralyzed by fear so that I can’t even think of a good response.
- I become so angry, I start yelling and attack my accuser (you attack me, I attack you!)
- Or, as Jesus did, you are sure of your God-given authority, so you are able to think of an appropriate answer — actually a clever question — in response!
At times in my life, I’ve viewed various challengers as towering super-human powerhouses like Andre the Giant, the famous wrestler who stood 7’ 4’’ and weighed something like 500 pounds! Compare that to Steve, a towering 5’ 9’, and weighing in at an awesome 138 pounds (fully attired, including an extra-heavy pair of shoes!) Skinny Steve vs. Awesome Andre on pay-per-view? No way! If I look at the one who challenges me in this way, I’m bound to become so paralyzed by fear, I’m not able to articulate the righteous answer that God has prepared for me. Or, I became so angry, I plunge into a counter-accusation that doesn’t help, but instead makes the situation worse.
But then I look at God — Creator of the universe, eternal, all-wise and loving — and compare God to my challenger. “I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, so shall I be saved from my enemies.” (Psalm 18:3). The truth is that whoever it is, they are neither superior nor inferior to me. They are an equal. And, God gives all who ask — including you and me — righteousness that gives us the authority to answer any challenge with faith. Jesus did it, and I’m convinced He wants us to do the same!
Please don’t get the idea that I’m saying every time someone corrects us, we are to view that person as an adversary. Without God correcting us, our ability to learn would be severely hampered. Sometimes we all need loving, concerned correction to get us back on course. Jesus’ challengers were attempting to discredit Him and make Him less effective in doing God’s work, and it’s those kinds of challenges God will help us stave off.
Thought for the day: “Be the inferior of no man, nor of any man be the superior,” William Saroyan, The Time of Your Life
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.