What Jesus Did! 'Staying on Task' — Luke 9:43-44

Saturday, June 17, 2023

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Awe gripped the people as they saw this majestic display of God's power [when Jesus cast an evil spirit out of a boy].

While everyone was marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, "Listen to me and remember what I say. The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies."

— Luke 9:43-44 NLT

Key Thought

So often our gaze is diverted from what our primary task truly is. Despite others talking about the many wonderful things Jesus accomplished, he stayed focused on preparing his disciples. He focused them on his departure and on being equipped to lead after his departure. Sometimes discouragement can derail us from our mission. Other times we are derailed by pride that comes from praise — we sometimes call it "resting on our laurels." Jesus, however, was not diverted. He stayed on task. He remembered his mission. His focus was possible because of his daily walk with the Father in quiet prayer time and his desire to finish his Father's mission for him. In yesterday's devotional, we looked at not letting difficulties and disappointments, whether they center on other people or on ourselves, keep us from continuing our mission for God. Today, we are reminded not to let success and praise derail us through pride.

Today's Prayer

Father, please help me not be diverted from my mission for you because of the praise of others. While I genuinely appreciate the affirmation, I know my heart can sometimes swell with pride. Thank you for the encouragement, and keep me on the path of honoring you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Acts 20:24
  • John 4:34
  • John 12:42-43

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 9:43-44 NLT — "Listen to me and remember what I say. The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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