Devotion for Thursday, March 20, 2025

“When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, they understood that He was speaking about them.  And although they sought to arrest Him, they feared the crowds, since they considered Him to be a prophet” (Matthew 21:45-46).

Those in this world and who live in the way of this world are often torn between fear of the crowds and the goals they have in their minds.  They are driven by what they believe to be right, but  they have no power, only the illusion which comes through influencing others to go along with their schemes.  The rock of our faith is the One through whom all things exist.  Build your life upon the truth, which is Christ our Savior.

Lord, You know that I have schemed like others in this world.  I feel I am right about things, and I want them to go the way I want them to go.  Help me, Lord, not to live this way.  Guide me to live the way You know I need to live and be guided by You, who gives all life.  Let me not scheme, as those in the world do, but live by Your goodness and grace into the life You are giving me through faith.

Lord Jesus, You are all the hope anyone needs.  Help me to live into the hope You give me.  Let me not be pulled aside by the things of this world but live according to Your goodness and mercy.  Guide me, Lord, so that I trust in You above all things.  Help me to learn how to be faithful to the call You have given me so that I live the life You give and obey all that You command.  Amen.