Reading and studying the past few weeks gave many important lessons that can be applied in how we live today. In Luke 19, Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus so he took the initiative to climb a tree to get a clear view. The one who seeks and saves asks to stay at his house and Zacchaeus energetically welcomed Him. Jesus’ influence upon Zacchaeus prompts a life change. Like Zacchaeus who took the initiative to find Jesus, do what He says, and change his ways, we can make sure we are in a better position to see Jesus and change the negatives that keep us off track.

Also in Luke 19, The Parable of the Ten Minas gives us a lesson in the need to have faith to step out and do what would produce the best return on what God gives us; being good stewards of our time and resources. In this parable, one servant did not maximize his master’s gains because he was afraid to take a risk and make the money multiply. The lesson for us is to be obedient and serve the Lord the best we can in order to build kingdom wealth.

Jesus’ lesson for us in Luke 20 is found in the answer to the question raised by the Pharisee spies who were trying to trap Jesus. The lesson is to show respect to authorities but also stand up for our rights in a civil way. Christianity is broad-minded and what is made clear from the response of Jesus is that our faith respects the state and can work alongside it in an effective way.

The Sadducees also tried to show discrepancies in the teachings of Jesus. As we go through life, we will run into those who will try to trick or deceive us in order to bring our faith down. There will be non-believers that we will come up against and try to put roadblocks in our way. These situations give us an opportunity to explain the soundness and victory found in the Word. We can step ahead by taking in the Word to fortify us and remain confident that we are highly favored by God.

We will continue to take in the Word over the next few weeks in order to share thoughts or ideas in how best to build up our faith. The studies are designed to help apply our faith in the work place, at school, or at home. You can keep up with my spiritual journey by clicking http://wp.me/1ar6D. As the journey through God’s Word continues, below are questions for reflection for the study of Luke 21-22 which will help focus some thoughts to share in posts over the next few weeks.

Luke 21:1-19
In what ways does the widow give more? The disciples remark about the splendor of the temple but Jesus points out that the temple would be destroyed. What are the political, natural, religious, and personal signs of this taking place? What quality must the disciples possess to overcome? Are you revealing this quality in your daily living?

Luke 21:20-38
What was the reason for the destruction of Jerusalem (see 11:50; 19:43-44)? What specific commands are given to govern life in the meantime (see v. 36 with v. 19)? How does your faith in the Son of man overcome fear and apprehension?

Luke 22:1:-20
What is Satan’s part in betrayal of Jesus? What is Judas’ part? What precautions does Jesus make about the place for the Passover (only women carried water jars)? What is the significance of the Lord’s Passover supper (see v. 7; Ex. 12:1-20)?

Luke 22:21-38
Contrast the concerns of the disciples (v. 24) and the concerns of Jesus (vv. 14-19). In what way is leadership among Christians different from the current concept of authority? What is greatness and how does it happen? What is your defense in the face of opposition?

Luke 22:39-53
How does Jesus handle the pressure on Him? How do the disciples handle the pressure on them? What pressures to you face in your life? How do you handle them? When Judas led the officers of the temple guard and the elders to Jesus, What shows that Jesus submits voluntarily to the powers of darkness?

Luke 22:54-71
How does Peter handle the awkward situation he is in? How is Jesus treated psychologically and physically (See 18:32)? Why do you think Jesus gave a clear affirmative answer when they ask Him if He was the Son of God?

The above reading plan will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing! At this link: God’s Plan for Us, is a post about accepting God’s plan or reaffirming our “YES” for Christ.
 
When we accept Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit is our companion and it’s exciting to think about what the future holds. With God, we can get through anything, we can patiently grind it out during difficulties or give Him credit when the impossible is made possible. Beyond that, we can celebrate because of the victory we will always have with Him.

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.
 
Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts
Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God. Downer Grove Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 1978
First United Methodist Waco Podcast
Christ Notes
Family Times
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