Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. – 1 Corinthians 2:9
In the post “Benefits for Current Situation and Future Generation” thoughts or ideas were shared. Many want to be rewarded in life with riches or fame but there is an even higher reward that Jesus calls attention to in accepting the gospel message. This reward is guaranteed if we receive God’s love, take action on His purpose, and help others receive salvation.
Let us worship the ONE true God who promises benefits for those who obey. The blessings consist of a future with purpose, peace, and a perfect place as brought out in the song I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe.
This day with God will be amazing because we grow each day reading the word and it is in His Way we believe. We are thankful for His provision and grateful for all we receive. Today, we are reading in Mark 10:32-45 seeking thoughts or ideas that may not only benefit our current situation but help the next generation too!
The disciples were amazed at what Jesus was doing but afraid because they knew there were those against Him. They were confused because Jesus had been warning the disciples that the chief priests and teachers of the law would condemn Him to death and hand Him over to the Gentiles (v. 33).
James and John wanted to be with Jesus even through death on the Cross. Jesus explains that they will drink of the same cup and be baptized with the baptism He is baptized with but it was not up to Him for them to have to go through what He would on the Cross.
For Jesus, the concept of leadership was not being a king or military leader but a servant. To give more than received out of life. Going the extra mile to help as many as possible receive the message of salvation. The greatest of all possessions one can hand off to future generations are the guiding principles taught by Jesus.
Many want to be rewarded in life with riches or fame but there is an even higher reward that Jesus calls attention to in accepting the gospel message. This reward is guaranteed if we receive God’s love, take action on His purpose, and help others receive salvation.
This day with You Lord, we seek the higher reward available to all who accept Your gift of salvation. We pray for guidance in our relationships, families, and careers in our current situation but also in paying dividends to future generations. We trust Your word as the voice of truth in guiding us to places beyond our imagination. Amen.
Last week in reading Mark 10:1-16, the Pharisees tried to throw Jesus off guard but He enlightened them to this new way which maintains the integrity of the established standards but at the same time allows us to come to God with this new enthusiasm.
Then in Mark 10:17-31, a wealthy man runs up to Jesus to ask what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus explains that riches make one focus on how to maintain the wealth rather than on God. Jesus enlightens the disciples on the need to be disciplined, dedicated, and focused on the treasures of God rather than success, fortune, and fame. The later may last a lifetime but the former will last for eternity.
As we spring ahead next week, we will continue the study of Mark 10.
Below are some questions for reflection.
Mark 10:32-45 – What do you think makes the disciples amazed and afraid? What additional facts about his future does Jesus divulge (Also read Mk 8:31 and Mk 9:12)? What are your aims in regard to Jesus’ kingdom? What are the meaning of cup and baptism? What is Jesus’ concept of leadership (Read Mk 9:33-37)?
Mark 10:46-52 – What qualities does Bartimaeus reveal? What do you want Jesus to do for you? What is the cause and result of Bartimaeus’ healing?
Believe that God has a great plan for you.
Victory starts by having a plan. By accepting God’s plan for us, all we need to do is follow and believe He will provide the power. He will give the upper hand to make what seems impossible possible.
*Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9
Brought out in the post “Acceptance” was how the Pharisees tried to trick Jesus into making statements that would conflict with the Law of Moses. They were looking for ways to bring Jesus down because they felt threatened by His new way.
Jesus offered grace so that both the Law of Moses and the intentions of God are accomplished. Things are not that different in current times as some individuals or groups reject certain thoughts, ideas, or established traditions.
Take encouragement in the song Grace Wins by Matthew West because our faith has one common thread that binds us; the power of Christ in what we believe and how we live. Individuals and groups are not perfect but there is always victory…
Our relationship to God affects our attitude toward others because all believers are brothers and sisters who are the beneficiaries of God’s treasure. Today, use this poem to inspire as we explore the world around us or mine for the gold in God’s Word finding treasure for our spiritual wealth useful now and for eternity.
