Devotion for Sunday, July 28, 2024

“Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues; and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the Gentiles” (Matthew 10:17-18).

The wicked are, well, wicked. They think they know what they are doing and if you dare to cross them, they will crucify you. But actually they do not know what they are doing, they just act as if they do. Our Lord has given us invaluable instructions to live in this world without remaining sinners who seek to control. The Lord is in control and all the violence in this world will never overcome the truth that all authority and power belongs to Jesus.

Lord, You have given me fair warning. There are those in this world who hate You and therefore will hate me. Help me to be clear about this so that I do not become surprised when this happens to me. This can happen in a fellowship that calls itself the church as easily as a government or group of rebels. Grant that I would see things as they are, knowing that all things are in Your hands.

Lord Jesus, You send me with Your peace into the world and advise me to beware of those who will not only reject that peace, but become hostile with any mention of You. Grant that I would not back down because of danger, nor compromise because of force. Help me to live into the life You give me with boldness and faithfulness. Prepare me to meet whatever challenge You have placed before me. Amen.