NT Fire Starters – Day 15: Matthew 11:1-30

READ: Matthew 11:1-30

THINK: Do you ever wrestle with doubts about God’s purposes or His work in your life? Even John the Baptist–the one who prepared the way for Jesus–struggled with doubts and insecurity during extremely difficult times. But Jesus understood. He assured John that God’s work was being done and He defended John’s legacy of fearlessness and faith. In fact, it was John’s loyalty to Christ–his stand for truth His and opposition to wickedness–that landed him in prison. But John boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus and eventually gave his life for his Friend and Lord.

RESPOND: Why do you think John sent his followers to question Jesus? What did Jesus mean when He said that “he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he (John the Baptist)”? (See 11:11 note.) What benefits and privileges do Christians today have that even great people like John the Baptist did not fully experience? What does it mean that “the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it” ? (See 11:12 note.) In what way is God’s truth hidden (v. 25) from people who are only wise in a worldly sense? In what sense does Jesus provide rest for those who are weary? (See 11:28 note.)

PRAY: Ask God to help you overcome any doubts you might have regarding God’s work and your relationship with Jesus. Pray for courage, intensity and perseverance in pursuing God’s purposes for your life. If you are spiritually weary in any way, ask God to refresh you as you spend time with Him.

ACT: Instead of being reactive with your faith and simply responding to situations or opportunities, focus on being proactive–pursuing and creating opportunities to demonstrate Jesus’ love and communicate His message. Take the first step and do something that may be uncharacteristically bold for you regarding your faith. Don’t be pushy or obnoxious, but find a way to honor God in a deliberate way today.