Experiencing Jesus e~Devotional | 5/14

PASSAGE: Matthew 5 [4] “Blessed at those who mourn …” Matthew 5 [5] “Blessed are the meek …” Matthew 22 [37] “Love the Lord your God with all your heart …” Matthew 22 [39] “Love your neighbor as yourself …” Matthew 27 [46] “My God, my God …”

INSIGHT: Earlier, we talked about surrendering our lives and wills to God rather than doing our own thing. One of the key issues with doing this is – what is God’s will? All of the Scripture passages above have something in common. Jesus was quoting the Old Testament – the Scriptures that he had at the time. Matthew 5 [4] – Isaiah 61 [2-3]; Matthew 5 [5] – Psalm 37 [11]; Matthew 22 [37] – Deuteronomy 6 [5]; Matthew 22 [39] – Leviticus 19 [18]; Matthew 27 [46] – Psalm 22 [1].

Jesus’ teaching was grounded in Scripture. He saw all of life through the grid of Scripture. He was immersed in the Old Testament. He was actually modeling for us how we too can live a surrendered life to God. We also live life to its fullest by being immersed in God’s Word.

PRAYER FOCUS: “God, I pray that your Word will truly sink into my innermost being and change me from the inside out.”

SPIRITUAL PRACTICE TODAY: Think of an area of your life – or a habit or action – that may not be completely pleasing to God. What passage from the Bible addresses that area? Memorize that passage and ask God to help change whatever your thoughts, actions and habits to honor Him.