Stress Test Devotional April 27
April 27, 2024
MATTHEW 16:1
The Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test Jesus they asked him to show them a sign from heaven.
The demand for a sign is insincere, and it is also irrational. Already in Matthew’s gospel there have been many moments where Jesus has exercised divine authority over disease and brokenness. The blind have received sight, the deaf have heard sounds, the lepers have been cleansed, the mute have spoken, the paralyzed have taken steps, and the possessed have been freed.
We must not impose our own faith conditions on God! Drawing lines he must cross, setting tests he must pass, in order to win our allegiance, is unfair and presumptuous. Jesus himself is the sign! Our reaction to him shows us our hearts, tests our souls, and reveals our identity.
PRAYER
Gracious God, Thank you that we can see your heart and discover your ways and know your truth through Jesus. Let us approach him in scripture with reverence and gratitude. Let us seek him in prayer with devotion and love. In his name we pray. Amen.
