Day 1 — Listen and Understand
Scripture: Matthew 15:10–11
“Listen and understand.”
Jesus knew that what He was about to say would challenge the people around Him. The Pharisees were focused on outward practices—washing hands, following traditions, and maintaining religious appearances. But Jesus pointed them toward something much deeper.
He said that what defiles a person is not what goes into the mouth, but what comes out of it.
In other words, God is not merely interested in what we do. He is interested in what is happening within us.
We can become very good at looking like we have everything together. We can attend church, say the right things, sing the songs, pray the prayers, and follow religious routines while our hearts are somewhere else.
That was the problem Jesus confronted.
The easy way is to listen when God speaks and respond with humility. The hard way is to resist Him until our hearts become increasingly hardened.
Sometimes God’s Word is difficult to hear—not because it is unclear, but because it is uncomfortable.
Today, Jesus says, “Listen and understand.”
Don’t simply hear His words. Let them search your heart.
Reflect:
Where might God be asking you to listen more carefully to His Word rather than simply going through religious routines?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me not only to hear Your Word but to receive it. Search my heart and show me anything that needs to change. Give me humility to obey You when Your truth is difficult to hear. Amen.
Today’s Challenge:
Spend five quiet minutes asking God, “Lord, what are You trying to show me?”
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