Live 4 The LORD

​READ

11 The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, to test him. 12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” 13  And he left them, and getting into the boat again he departed to the other side.  (Mark 8:11–13, RSV2CE)

REFLECT

The Pharisees argue with Jesus. The Pharisees seek a sign from heaven from Jesus. The Pharisees are trying to test Jesus. 

I am not to argue with God. He tells me what is…I don’t tell Him what is. This is His creation and His purpose. If He says something is wrong or sinful, it is. 

I am not to seek signs from heaven. Jesus has come. He has done what He did, His works have been told, His Word has been preserved. I can believe or not, that’s it. 

I am not to test God. God IS. He will have His way. You can either be on His side, or not. I do not have a right to put Him to the test. He has the right to put me to the test. I am the creature, He the Creator. 

Our pride and audacity is astounding and horrifying!

Jesus sighs deeply in spirit. 

Jesus tells them no sign will be given. 

Jesus leaves them. 

Jesus is grieved. They have seen so much already but they refuse to be converted. Nothing else can be done for them if they decide they are not on His side. Man has a choice to believe or not. God does not coerce or force. He offers Himself and we can say yes or no. Jesus leaves because they are not open to change, only in pride trying to disprove Absolute Truth. Truth is Truth and cannot be disproven. 

RESOLUTION

Jesus, forgive my pride. I know that I have had the same thoughts, wanting to argue, seek signs, and test. Please my God forgive me! I want to be on your side. I believe you are who you say you are. I want your will in my life even if I don’t understand. 

REST

Thank you for not giving up on me. You are so loving you have not walked away from me. Please help me rest knowing that in you I can make it home. Help me kill my flesh and wrong thoughts by your grace so I can walk your will all the way home. I trust in you. Amen.