TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!” Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet to be entirely clean.” John 13:9-10a (New Living Translation)
Read: John 13:1-17 (NIV)
Listen: John 13 (NIV)
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Jesus was good at saying no. In the Bible, we see Jesus telling Satan no three times in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus often says no to his disciples (Luke 9:54) and friends (Luke 10:38-42). Also, Jesus shows us how to honor God by saying no to things that divert us from saying yes to his plans.
Last weekend, guest Pastor Kevin Harney emphasized making good choices by using the example of a delicious buffet. We pick up a plate and walk down a line of tasty options, scooping up plenty of what we see first. Our plate is so full by the time we near the end that there’s no room left for the best of the buffet.
Jesus said no to stay on course with the best plan. By refusing requests that would fill his plate and sidetrack his purpose, he said yes to choices that would train his disciples and lead him to the cross for our salvation. This week we will learn how to say no so we can say yes to the best of the buffet.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Perhaps Jesus’ most poignant no was to his fears. He tells God before his crucifixion, “Yet not my will, but yours be done.” Luke 22:42b. Begin this week by praying with open hands, “Father God, help me see the things I need to say no to, so I can say yes to your plan.” Download the lock screen today to remind you.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
