December 28th – Matthew 11:20-30

December 28th – Matthew 11:20-30

Spend some time meditating on these verses. Then, come back and read the commentary, my verse, and my response to God.

• Request God’s help.
• Read Matthew 11:20-30
• Record a verse that stands out to you.
• Respond to God.

Come back and read the commentary when you’re done.

Woe to you_____! Whose name would you write in the blank? I don’t mean to pronounce judgment on someone. But I want you to write down the name of a person you know will be condemned if they do not repent. In doing so, you will have named someone you can pray for earnestly. Like those in Capernaum, they may have seen miracles and heard the Gospel yet remained unmoved. I pray that each name written will be in the Book of Life before long.

After these strong words of judgment, Jesus thanks the Father for making Him known to the infants or the lowly. He calls all who are weary and heavy-laden to come to Him and promises rest for their souls. Isn’t that what we all need?

Who will you commit to pray for? (No need to share publicly. This is between you and God. I pray you will be blessed.)

My Verse: Matthew 11:29: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

My Response: It is a choice. I can purpose to take His yoke upon me. How? By submitting myself to His authority and receiving His overwhelming love. By following close to Him as He leads with power. If you do this, you will have peace.

For many years, I tried doing it my way. Even as a Christian, I chafed against the goad, thinking that my way was better. I believed God didn’t know what He was doing, and perhaps He didn’t care about me as much as He said He did. But God, in His great mercy and grace, renewed my mind and convicted me of the offensive sin of skepticism and character assassination toward God. Before, I believed God for my salvation but did not trust Him to be faithful or always good. I kept pushing the yoke aside and carried a heavy burden of self-protection and fear for too long.

It’s comical how light life becomes when that seemingly heavy yoke is attached. Because Jesus is the lead ox, so to speak, my burden is light. All the battles are His, and my part is to keep in step with Him as He works. What a gracious God we have!

Father, guide each person through the rest of Matthew. Open their eyes to the scriptures and help them find the treasure hidden in the soil of Your Word. Give them the desire to know You and teach each one how to fasten that beautiful yoke to their spiritual necks, in Jesus’ name.

As we end our time together, I pray that you will continue. There are several more chapters and recurring themes, but mostly, it’s all about Jesus. Partner with Him as you die to yourself and live for Christ. Be prepared for the battle ahead and look for the victory. Never lose hope; remember, Jesus is Who He says He is–our Savior and King.