The Devil and Doubt
All Things Are Possible
Scripture Reading: Matthew 19:16-26
Key Verse: Matthew 19:26
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Today’s story is about a double-minded man. I hope you have time to read his story as it’s told in the suggested scripture reading for today. This young man had been a solid follower of the Old Testament laws since he was a child. To keep all the commands for that long tells us that he really did believe in a God in heaven, but he had his other “foot” in the world. He was a rich man. He had created a lot of wealth for himself in the marketplace of his day; one foot in the church; one foot in the world. When he had an opportunity to chat with Jesus, he was challenged to give himself entirely to the cause of God’s kingdom; no more double-minded living. He walked away sad!
There was a part of this man that just couldn’t believe that he could find happiness without his money. Doubt filled his mind about his security in his tomorrows—without his money! Doubt drove him to walk away from Jesus! Jesus turned to His disciples and astounded them with these words: “It is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” It is possible, but it would take the power and grace of God Himself to help the wealthy trust Him over their money!
Once again the devil robs the kingdom because of doubt. We must watch for doubt-filled thoughts and replace them quickly with the promises of God’s Word! All things are possible with God!
Father, if I start putting my faith in anything other than you, please show me. Grant me your power and grace to totally trust you! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.