Without entitlement

Song: Put in Me

LESSON:

Genesis 27-28 & Psalm 4 & Luke 11

SCRIPTURE:

Luke 11:27-28

As he said these things, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him,“Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts at which you nursed!” 28 But he said,“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

OBSERVATION:

Oftentimes, people expect to be praised or respected for doing something that didn't require any additional effort than just being. In the example in the scripture, the woman speaking expects Mary to be blessed or "noticed" simply because she gave birth. And, while the fact that women can give birth is amazing, it's better to be blessed, noticed, and respected for right action. Mary isn't profound simply because she gave birth. She's profound because she trusted God and held steadfastly to Him which is why Jesus says in verse 28 "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

APPLICATION:

Instead of expecting praise or blessings without action (entitlement) we need to be ACTIVE in our relationship with Jesus and strive, daily, to be more like him. THAT'S what's worthy of acknowledgement.

PRAYER:

Lord. Thank you for your graciousness and patience as I learn to be more like you. Thank you for helping me to grow and change and make right choices. Continue to show me Your way so I can walk in humility, without expectation, pride, or boastfulness.