Jan 23 Devotion: Who For?

Who For?

Matthew 9:3-4

And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth. [4] And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?

Have you ever said something like this: “If my mom or dad found out I did that, they’d kill me—so no way!” Growing up, most of us were very aware of what might happen if our parents discovered certain things. That concern doesn’t really go away as we get older—only the people change.

If you’re married, you might hope your spouse doesn’t find out about something you did (and it doesn’t have to be some terrible sin—maybe it’s eating a cinnamon roll when you’re supposed to be on a diet). You might choose not to do something simply because you’re afraid your spouse would find out. The same is true at work: there may be things you avoid because if your employer discovered them, it could cost you your job.

No matter who it is, we tend to live with an awareness of who might find out. In our text, we see that Jesus is no different today than He was then. Scripture tells us that Jesus knew the thoughts of the Pharisees—and other passages show Him perceiving the thoughts of many. If He knows our thoughts, we shouldn’t forget that He also knows our actions.

When was the last time we chose not to do something simply because it wasn’t something the Lord would want us to do? It isn’t wrong to consider the opinions of others, but the primary One we are accountable to is the Lord. In the end, it is Him we will answer to and give an account of our lives.

So let me ask this: When was the last time you truly stopped and thought, “What would Jesus have me do in this situation?”

God bless,

Bro. Josh Richardson