Today’s Devotion
Topic: He Tried His Best!
Text: Matthew 11: 11
Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Amen
John the Baptist was given a very demanding mission and destiny to fulfil. Coming in the spirit of Elijah, he was to prepare the way for the Lord. This assignment almost made him estranged to normal life. Preaching in the desert of Judea, his clothes were made of carmel’s hair and he had a leather belt around his waist. He food was locusts and wild honey. (Mat 3: 1- 4)
Standing as the last prophet before Christ is revealed, John preached repentance to all Judea and baptized all who wanted to mend their ways. He stood critical of the regime and opposed Herod for stealing his brother’s wife (Mark 6: 17- 18).
Like Elijah, he felt like the only prophet left to defend the course of righteousness. Especially when He was imprisoned by Herod and Jesus would not visit. He sent a rhetorical message to Jesus, saying “are the One who is to come, or we should expect someone else” (Matthew 11: 3).
Jesus took advantage of the situation to remind John of their different assignments and destinies. He replied “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: “The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”(Matthew 11: 4- 6).
Jesus was however quick to add after John’s messagers had left that of all born of woman, JOHN WAS THE GREATEST. He lived to fulfill his divine assignment. He did so denying Himself and obeying the voice of THE FATHER. He prepared the way for Christ. He died upholding righteousness! Now brethren, what about us?
We equally have a task to prepare the way for the second coming of Christ, how far with it? How has this mission also estranged us from the world and its passions, especially in an era where other believers are loving the world so much and calling it “normal life”? How have we stood for righteousness, even if it appeared we were alone on that quest? How have we been spent for the Lord? What is Jesus’ personal testimony about us?
Always remember that John the Baptist gave his all and tried his best. How about you, Precious One? Begin to pray now! Offer your life as a living sacrifice to Christ, without reservation. There’s a God purpose attached to you- live to fulfill it in Jesus mighty name! See you at church.
NB: 41 days to 4JBAND’S Moriah Praise RELOADED. The worship service prepared to usher you straight to the throneroom of God. Bring the entire family to CANIS MAJORIS EVENT CENTRE ON 27TH DECEMBER, 3PM SHARP. COME AND ENCOUNTER JESUS THROUGH PRAISE, PRAYER, ADORATION AND HEAVENLY MUSIC. YOU WOULD BE SO BLESSED YOU CAME. Let us pray- click: https://youtu.be/b6TlHX205q4.
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