Topic: Small Fish
Today’s Scripture: Matthew 19:16ā26(NIV)
Key Verse:Come, follow me. – Matthew 19:21
Bible in a Year: Exodus 1ā3; Matthew 14:1ā21
Today’s Insight: There are several interpretations of Jesusā words inĀ Matthew 19:24: āIt is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.ā One view suggests āthe eye of the needleā refers to a gate opening that could only be entered by a camel that had been relieved of its cargo. Another hypothesis is that the word for ācamelā was mistranslated and should be translated ārope.ā But these unlikely explanations rob this statement of its true meaning. The point is that apart from Godās grace, itās not justĀ difficultĀ butĀ impossibleĀ to be saved.
Our Daily Bread Today Devotional 21st January 2021 Thursday Message
Over several years, a British couple living in West Africa developed a strong friendship with a man in their town and many times shared the love of Jesus and the story of salvation with him. Their friend, however, was reluctant to relinquish the lifetime of allegiance he had to another religion, even though he came to recognize that faith in Christ was āthe greater truth.ā His concern was partly financial, since he was a leader in his faith and depended on the compensation he received. He also feared losing his reputation among the people in his community.
With sadness, he explained, āIām like a man fishing with my hands in a stream. I have caught a small fish in one, but a bigger fish is swimming by. To catch the bigger fish, I have to let go of the smaller one!ā
The rich young ruler Matthew wrote about inĀ Matthew 19Ā had a similar problem. When he approached Jesus, he asked, āWhat good thing must I do to get eternal life?ā (v. 16). He seemed sincere, but he didnāt want to fully surrender his life to Jesus. He was rich, not only in money, but also in his pride of being a rule-follower. Although he desired eternal life, he loved something else more and rejected Christās words.
When we humbly surrender our life to Jesus and accept His free gift of salvation, He invites us, āCome, follow meā (v. 21).
Reflect & Pray
What one thing does Jesus require of us to receive salvation and the promise of eternal life with Him? Whatās keeping you from fully surrendering to Him?
Dear Father, thank You for offering Your Son as payment for my sin. Help me to surrender wholly to You.