VERSE FOR TODAY: Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God" (Luke 18:27, New International Version).
HYMN FOR TODAY: "Footprint of Jesus"
A Statement in this story really shook the apostles. They had always thought that riches were a sign of God's favor and poverty was a sign of sinfulness. They apparently hadn't understood some of the things that Jesus had taught; and they apparently hadn't read the book of Job recently. But just about everyone thought just as they did. Some of us may think that way too.
Then Jesus said, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! (Luke 18:24, New International Version). Rich men are likely to feel self-sufficient. They can buy what they want. Christian's are like "little children" (Luke 18:16,17). They are dependent. A poor man have an advantage. It is clear to him that he can't make it on his own, so he is ready to depend on the Lord.
"Who then can be saved?" the disciples asked. Jesus said nobody can by his own goodness. It is impossible. You will not do enough parent-honoring, murder-avoiding, and truth-telling to stand eye-to-eye with a perfect God. But with Him all things are possible, even the salvation of rich men, if they follow Jesus.
Salvation means trusting Jesus, not trusting yourself.
PRAYER THOUGHTS: Thank You for using Your Word, Father, to remind us that it is not what we do but whose we are that allows us to inherit eternal life. We confess that we are tempted to be our own guides. We thank you for providing Your Holy Spirit to help us resist that temptation. Jesus is Lord! Amen.
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