Scripture to Read: Luke 9:46–48
In yesterday’s devotion, we learned how the disciples did not understand what Jesus said about being turned over to the hands of men. Today, we get a little further glimpse of why their minds were blinded. God had Luke record this in Luke 9:46–48, “An argument started among them as to which of them might be the greatest. 47 But Jesus, knowing what they were thinking in their heart, took a child and stood him by His side, 48 and said to them, ‘Whoever receives this child in My name receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me; for the one who is least among all of you, this is the one who is great.’” The disciples were still focused on an earthly kingdom and on where each of them would be serving alongside Jesus. God says this about a selfish, worldly mindset in James 4:1–3, “What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.” Jesus knows humility is the answer to serving Him and His Father. Only the humble walk with Jesus and live for Him no matter the cost. Pride got Satan cast out of heaven and it will keep many from entering in.
Challenge & Application
What were the disciples still struggling with and how was it keeping them from seeing clearly?
Why is pride something God hates, and how do we overcome a prideful mindset?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!