Daily Devotion for February 20, 2024

 

Devotion:

For an audio version of this devotion, click here.

Read Matthew 19:16-26.

For me obeying the law is important, but I can choose to drive within the speed limit and be late for my appointment or I can drive at a faster speed and arrive to my appointment on time. There is no one forcing me to make a choice. I must choose myself what is most important. The law says one thing and I respect the law, but I have my own reason for choosing to disobey the law. My obedience and disobedience is a choice.

The young ruler came to Jesus. He said, “‘Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?’” (Matt. 19:16, NASB) Jesus told the young ruler to keep the commandments. Now this would not be a hard thing for the young man to do. “‘All these things I have kept; what am I still lacking?’” (v.20) There has to be more. I can sense it, but I do not know what it is. “‘If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; and come follow Me’” (v. 21).The young man made a choice. “He went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property” (v. 22). 

Jesus gave the young man an opportunity to be complete; to have eternal life. Jesus did not demand that the young man do what He said that he ought to do. Jesus allowed the young man to walk away. It was his choice. He could choose to obey Jesus’ words or he could choose to disobey His words. You and I must make choices about many things in life. Our most important choice is whether or not we will choose to obey Jesus or disobey Him. Obedience is a choice.

Personal Worship Option:

Prayer: Lord Jesus we choose to obey your commands and have eternal life. Amen.