From the desk of Pastor Ben

Receiving Greater Light – Part 2

“Then they understood that He did not say to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”         (Matthew 16:12)

The disciples were confused about Jesus’ definition of bread because their dominant earthly perspective clouded their spiritual vision. Their misplaced response to Him prompted an expression He had used numerous times before, “You men of little faith (vs. 8; 6:30; 8:26; 14:31). Their confusion and misunderstanding was not because of limited information or intellect, but because of limited faith.

When Christians walk obediently by the Spirit, God will make provision for all their temporal needs. That’s why in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus admonished His listeners:

Do not worry then, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear for clothing?” For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
          (Matthew 6:31-33)

Christ was grieved with the disciples because, after hearing much sound teaching and witnessing many convincing miracles, they were still walking by sight rather than faith. The believer needs regular exposure to God’s Word and the constant illumination the Holy Spirit provides. Only by these means can he rise above the concerns, burdens, perplexities, and anxieties that are inevitable in this life, especially when viewed and lived strictly from a human standpoint.

Ask Yourself:
How often could the words “you of little faith” be appropriately applied to your actions, behaviors, and beliefs? What would it take for you to begin exercising great faith amid the challenges you face and the opportunities that could potentially be coming up in your life?