Then [Jesus] said to the man [with the deformed hand], "Hold out your hand." So the man held out his hand, and it was restored, just like the other one! Then the Pharisees called a meeting to plot how to kill Jesus.
—Matthew 12:13-14 NLT
Isn't it astonishing how a good deed can bring about such an evil reaction?! In this event, Jesus heals a man with a deformed hand resulting in the Pharisees' murderous rage. The problem is not Jesus' action, of course, but the hearts of those involved in the plot. If I am willing to come to Jesus for comfort, rest, and healing, he is more than willing to give it to me. He longs to bless and give rest. If I am seeking to avoid him, to control him, to tame him, to limit him, to religiously domesticate him, then his actions will drive me to anger and maybe even hatred. Each reaction is its own conviction or pardon, because Jesus' intent is only to bless.
Loving Father, help me see that your desire for my worship is not just your pleasure, but also my blessing. Let me find rest and renewal in your presence as you minister to me through your Son and by your Spirit as I seek to glorify you and place my life under your care. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2021 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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—Matthew 12:13-14 NLT
Key Thought
Isn't it astonishing how a good deed can bring about such an evil reaction?! In this event, Jesus heals a man with a deformed hand resulting in the Pharisees' murderous rage. The problem is not Jesus' action, of course, but the hearts of those involved in the plot. If I am willing to come to Jesus for comfort, rest, and healing, he is more than willing to give it to me. He longs to bless and give rest. If I am seeking to avoid him, to control him, to tame him, to limit him, to religiously domesticate him, then his actions will drive me to anger and maybe even hatred. Each reaction is its own conviction or pardon, because Jesus' intent is only to bless.
Today's Prayer
Loving Father, help me see that your desire for my worship is not just your pleasure, but also my blessing. Let me find rest and renewal in your presence as you minister to me through your Son and by your Spirit as I seek to glorify you and place my life under your care. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2021 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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