Wed., 2/7/18 Devotion (Mk. 10:35)

Today's encouragement comes from Mark 10:35, where we read these words:

"Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to [Jesus], saying, 'Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.' "

We can almost envision our Lord smiling, when these guys approached Him with these words (above). Actually, Jesus never rebuked them for their bold-ness and audacity. The Messiah later explained carefully to them what would be involved in the actual answer to their request, should it be granted.

The Lord wants us to be totally honest and passionate in our petitions to Him. Even if they are misdirected, this is no reason for us to be small-minded in our prayers. Let us come confidently to our Triune God, through Jesus Christ, with our real and heartfelt desires; and leave the results with Him.

[Puritan quote of the day: "There is nothing in the world more uneasy than the heart of a wicked man made to listen to spiritual instruction . . . “ —Richard Sibbes, in, "The Bruised Reed"]