Thurs., 2/7/19 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.' "

In our minds' eyes, we can almost see our Lord smiling, as these guys ap-proached Him with these words. Actually, Jesus never rebuked them for their boldness and audacity. Our Redeemer later explains carefully to them what would be involved in the actual answer to their request, should it be granted.

God wants us to be totally honest and passionate in our petitions to Him. Even if our requests are misdirected, this is no reason to be mealy-mouthed in prayer. Let us come to our Triune God with our real and heartfelt desires, and leave the results with Him—all in and through Jesus, our Mediator, alone.

[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"]