May 21
John 11:55-12:19
In John 12, the last week of Jesus’ life on earth comes into focus. As Jesus heads toward his death, opposition only intensifies. The first source of opposition in John 12 is that of the Pharisees. They have been trying to stop Jesus throughout his ministry, but now commit to doing so at any cost—even a willingness to kill him and Lazarus. They would do anything to keep Jesus from drawing attention from them. This opposition came from outside Jesus’ camp, and would probably have been easier to deal with then the second source. The second opposition comes from Judas—a disciple. A man with whom Jesus had spent three years. Like Peter, when Judas confronted Jesus over his statement about dying, he had a particular plan he wanted to see executed. Sadly, Judas (and Peter earlier), and the Pharisees all reflect a similar heart. They all want their will to do be done rather than God's. They did not start with pursuing God's glory and his will, but instead started with their own desires.
We can fall into this same trap when our prayers stop being about God's coming kingdom, and instead are about our own yearnings. Therefore, let us seek God, pursue his will, and follow him regardless of the cost or how it may seem to appear. We will face opposition. However, we are called to resolutely seek Christ and follow him wherever he leads.
Father God, help me to seek your will and your ways. Help me to live in a way that brings you glory, rather than myself. Amen.
In what ways do you find yourself seeking your own glory rather than God’s?
In John 12, the last week of Jesus’ life on earth comes into focus. As Jesus heads toward his death, opposition only intensifies. The first source of opposition in John 12 is that of the Pharisees. They have been trying to stop Jesus throughout his ministry, but now commit to doing so at any cost—even a willingness to kill him and Lazarus. They would do anything to keep Jesus from drawing attention from them. This opposition came from outside Jesus’ camp, and would probably have been easier to deal with then the second source. The second opposition comes from Judas—a disciple. A man with whom Jesus had spent three years. Like Peter, when Judas confronted Jesus over his statement about dying, he had a particular plan he wanted to see executed. Sadly, Judas (and Peter earlier), and the Pharisees all reflect a similar heart. They all want their will to do be done rather than God's. They did not start with pursuing God's glory and his will, but instead started with their own desires.
We can fall into this same trap when our prayers stop being about God's coming kingdom, and instead are about our own yearnings. Therefore, let us seek God, pursue his will, and follow him regardless of the cost or how it may seem to appear. We will face opposition. However, we are called to resolutely seek Christ and follow him wherever he leads.
Father God, help me to seek your will and your ways. Help me to live in a way that brings you glory, rather than myself. Amen.
In what ways do you find yourself seeking your own glory rather than God’s?
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