1/13/22

Our scripture this morning is Luke 11:14‭-‬20.

Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute. When the demon left, the man who had been mute spoke, and the crowd was amazed. But some of them said, “By Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he is driving out demons.” Others tested him by asking for a sign from heaven. Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them: “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall. If Satan is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? I say this because you claim that I drive out demons by Beelzebul. Now if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your followers drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”

People often opposed Jesus by claiming His miracles were accomplished through the power of Satan. Jesus responded logically, making them think about the situation instead of just reacting. His lesson to them applies to us today as well.

How often do we see or hear something and respond emotionally, without examining the situation? While our emotions are a gift from God, He also gave us brains capable of understanding and applying the evidence involved to make decisions. Our faith combines both of these blessings, helping us to believe with heart and mind.

We must think and feel in order to believe fully. God doesn’t want robotic followers, pre-programmed for obedience. He could have created us that way if that was His choice. Instead, He gave us the means to choose for ourselves, wanting us to choose Him as our God and Father.

Loving Lord, we are grateful for the gifts of thinking and feeling. Bless us to use all You have given us for the good of Your children and to Your glory. Amen.

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