Once when John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, some people came to Jesus and asked, "Why don't your disciples fast like John's disciples and the Pharisees do?"
—Mark 2:18 NLT
As today's passage, the preceding verses, and verses later in the chapter [1] indicate, Jesus was in a time of close scrutiny. Some people were trying to understand the LORD and his message; but, even at this early stage of his ministry, many of their leaders' questions were attempts to try to trap him. Other questions carried an accusation that Jesus' teaching and expectations were soft and lax on holiness and dedication. While the critical questions of others should make us go back and re-examine our positions and practices, we do not need to compromise our commitments and values. We must remember that truth and genuine commitment have always been criticized.
[1] Mark 2:23-24.
LORD God Almighty, give me the courage not to turn back from my convictions when I am doubted, questioned, or criticized. Help me to know your truth and put it into practice each day of my life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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—Mark 2:18 NLT
Key Thought
As today's passage, the preceding verses, and verses later in the chapter [1] indicate, Jesus was in a time of close scrutiny. Some people were trying to understand the LORD and his message; but, even at this early stage of his ministry, many of their leaders' questions were attempts to try to trap him. Other questions carried an accusation that Jesus' teaching and expectations were soft and lax on holiness and dedication. While the critical questions of others should make us go back and re-examine our positions and practices, we do not need to compromise our commitments and values. We must remember that truth and genuine commitment have always been criticized.
[1] Mark 2:23-24.
Today's Prayer
LORD God Almighty, give me the courage not to turn back from my convictions when I am doubted, questioned, or criticized. Help me to know your truth and put it into practice each day of my life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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