Matthew 11:7 NCV
As John’s followers were leaving, Jesus began talking to the people about John. Jesus said, “What did you go out into the desert to see? A reed blown by the wind?
Jesus was giving a tribute or respect to John the Baptist from Matthew 11:1-19. This statement interests me to study and share this devotion. Jesus meant that John was not like “a reed shaken with the wind.” John was not ordinary or weak like grass blown by the wind. He was referring to John’s righteous character and to his reputation as a preacher who refused to compromise his convictions. John preached God’s commandments without fear of others, never yielding to popular opinion. Herod’s sin was passed by in silence by all the Jewish authorities, but never for a moment by John. He rose against it as a rock, showing complete faithful to God and to His Word. He stood with God against sin, even though it cost him his life. John the Baptist gets a great reward in heaven.
Matthew 5:12 NCV
Rejoice and be glad, because you have great reward waiting for you in heaven. People did the same evil things to the prophets who lived before you.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to remember this verse that there is a reward waiting for us when we stand up for You and Your Word in Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!
Song: Stand Up for Jesus
Stand up, stand up for Jesus, Ye solders of the cross,
Lift high His royal banner, It must not suffer loss;
From victory unto victory His army shall He lead,
Till every foe is vanquished And Christ is Lord indeed.
[Lyrics:George Duffied; Music:George James Webb]
