March 24 | Matthew 18:1-9
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DAILY READING
Matthew 18:1-9
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REFLECTION
Turn The World On Its Head
by Judy Webb
"Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come!" (Matthew 18:7)
We often hear it said we live in an upside-down world. A world which is fast identifying what we once proclaimed as "good," as "bad." And along with that way of thinking and living much of what we once believed bad for us, or evil and wrong, many declare as good and natural. Some think we just need to update our thinking and our belief systems to mirror the changing times.
When researching this topic, the Believer’s Bible Commentary explains it this way: the standards and values in the kingdom are exactly opposite those in the world. Our whole mode of thinking must be reversed; we must think Christ’s thoughts. This is the reason daily Bible reading is so important and necessary to living a life Jesus would want for us. “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2:5)
How often do arguments and major family disagreements result from this upside-down thinking? Our individual beliefs differ significantly from those we grew up with. So, how much more do these hurdles exist with strangers. How many times have you heard it said: When family gets together, we know better than to discuss politics and/or religion. This certainly limits our topics, and many times makes us feel less than truthful. Jesus never avoided a difficult conversation, and neither should we.
As believers in Jesus Christ, have we allowed false thinking to change us? Do we conform to the Kingdom, or do we close our mouths and allow fear to silence us? When faced with this type of situation, we only need to ask a couple questions:
· What would Jesus do?
· And will this bring glory to God?
Then pray before your jump into the discussion. God will guide you.
PRAYER
Jesus, we need to turn our thinking over and see what's right in front of us. Our Bible is the best tool for this. Show us how to re-examine our beliefs and line them up with Your Word, not the world! Amen.
