Devotion for Saturday, December 14, 2024

“How is it that you do not understand that I did not speak to you about bread? But beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”  Then they understood that He did not say to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees” (Matthew 16:11-12).

Beware of the teaching of those who are not pointing to the truth of salvation through Christ alone.  Our part is to willingly join with Christ.  Never mistake that for the act of salvation.  Our salvation belongs to the Lord Who died for us in the Cross.  There is a dependency.  We are dependent upon what the Lord does.  Do not lean on your own understanding but lean upon the One who knows all things.  He alone must lead.

Lord, there are many ways in which the leaven of this world has taken root in me.  My attitudes and thoughts are not as pure nor as original as I think.  You alone must cleanse me of the leaven of this world.  You know where it is and what it is.  For my part, help me to be aware that it exists and discover where it is still a part of me.  Guide me in Your goodness to see that in You alone is there hope and a future.

Lord Jesus, let me take in Your word of truth and be guided by Your goodness.  Help me to understand that I need You.  Only You can save me from sin, death, and the devil.  There is so much pollution in me, and by Your grace, You lead me on the path of salvation.  Help me to always depend upon Your leading for all that I do so that I may humbly walk in the counsel of Your goodness.  Amen.