Simple Explanations

Scripture – Matthew 9:32-34: ³²While they were going out, a man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. ³³And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been mute spoke. The crowd was amazed and said, "Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel." ³⁴But the Pharisees said, "It is by the prince of demons that he drives out demons."

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Sometimes people refuse to believe what’s right in front of them. There are a few people that, when they speak, I’m already sure they won’t follow through with what they say. No matter what they do, I tend to look for an ulterior motive. These Pharisees couldn’t stand the idea of Jesus being from God, so they made up reasons to disbelieve him. But the crowd – the ordinary people – were amazed. They could recognize the truth.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Sometimes I think I know better than everyone else. I’ll pay attention to the voices around me today, and give them more credence. Sometimes I make things too complicated. I’ll listen for simple explanations. Sometimes those are right.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please forgive the arrogant attitude that keeps trying to rise within me. Remind me that you speak through a number of voices. Remind me that the message of Bethlehem is really quite simple. I don’t’ need to over-think it. I just need to say thanks. So, thank you.