Luke 22 - 9.19.25

Scripture

Luke 22:52- But Jesus answered, “No more of this!” And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.

Observation

Jesus’ followers knew what was about to happen after Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss.  So, one of them cut off the right ear of the servant of the high priest.  Jesus did not approve of this. As a result, he healed the man’s ear.

Application

Be angry, but do not sin. (Ephesians 4:26)

There is so much to be angry about in this world when we look at all the sin and evil happening around us. I know for myself personally, I have had to take myself off of social media for a bit because of certain posts that I am tempted to fight against.

However, the Lord doesn’t want us to fight evil with evil. In fact, He tells us to fight and OVERCOME evil with good (Romans 12:21).

He also says that human anger doesn’t produce with righteousness that God desires (James 1:20) and that self-control is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Instead of fighting those who seem to be for evil, our hearts need to break for them. I know that mine does, especially those who do not yet have a relationship with Christ.

Relationships can only be healthy and healed through the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. His humility and willingness to die for us should cause us to want to die to ourselves in order to build bridges with the lost and depraved of mind.

A Pastor said that the world watches how we suffer, so we need to suffer well.

Who is God calling you (and me) to pray for to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ?

Prayer

Dear Lord,

You know how hard it has been for me to see all of the hate circulating on social media the past couple of weeks, especially when it has been directed towards a fellow brother in Christ. Even though I didn’t know Charlie personally, such a gruesome murder is something I wouldn’t even wish upon my worse enemy, much less a fellow believer. I don’t understand Lord. Please fill me with Your peace and wisdom to respond the way You would want me to respond. Help my heart to break for people who do not yet know You, instead of immediately wanting to answer back in anger and frustration. Please forgive me for the many times my heart has leaned in that direction. I know if you were here on earth today, You would say, “No more of this!” just like You said on the day You were going to be crucified. Not only did You NOT hate your enemies, but You chose to heal them. Help me Holy Spirit to remember that I was once Your enemy too, until Your grace and mercy entered my life. We all need You Jesus. Amen.

-Michelle Gaddi