Crews N Away: Anchored in Grace Blog – Page 123

September 14, 2026

THEY WILL PUT SOME OF YOU TO DEATH / LUKE 21:16

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 21:16

And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.

The Ultimate Cost of Discipleship: Reflecting on Luke 21:16

When we read the Gospels, it is easy to gravitate toward the promises of peace, comfort, and blessings. But Jesus was always radically honest about the cost of following Him. In Luke 21:16, He drops a heavy, sobering truth on His disciples: “You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, sisters and friends, and they will put some of you to death.”

This wasn’t a metaphor. It wasn’t an exaggeration. For the men sitting around Him listening to these words, it was a literal roadmap of their future.

From Conviction to Martyrdom

Ancient church history records that nearly all of the original apostles (with the exception of John, who survived being plunged into boiling oil and was later exiled to the island of Patmos) met violent ends because they refused to stop preaching the gospel.

Consider the heavy price they paid:

Peter was crucified upside down in Rome, declaring himself unworthy to die in the same manner as his Savior.

Thomas traveled as far as India to establish the church before being pierced with a spear for his faith.

Paul was tortured and ultimately beheaded under the tyranny of Emperor Nero.

James, the son of Zebedee, was put to death with the sword early on in Jerusalem (Acts 12:2).

Early church fathers like Polycarp and historical analyses from sources like the Biola Magazine Review of Apostolic Martyrdom remind us that these men didn’t die for a vague philosophy. They died because they had firsthand, eyewitness encounters with the resurrected Christ. You might lie to protect a rumor, but no one willingly chooses brutal execution for a story they know they fabricated.

The Cost and the Fire Today

In Matthew 24:9, Jesus echoes this warning, telling believers they will be hated by all nations for His name’s sake. In the modern Western world, our “persecution” might look like an uncomfortable conversation, a lost social connection, or online mockery. But across the globe, thousands of believers still face the literal reality of Luke 21:16 every single day.

The willingness of the early church to face death head-on changed the world. As theologian Kyle Smith points out on the Ehrman Bart Ehrman Blog, dying for Christ was often seen not as a peripheral tragedy, but as a central expression of the Christian experience. They lived as people who had already surrendered their lives to God, and from their graves, Christianity swept across the earth.

We are challenged to ask ourselves: Is our faith rooted in comfort, or is it rooted in Christ? Are we prepared to stand firm when standing becomes costly?

A Closing Prayer for Faith and Endurance

Heavenly Father,

We come before You humbled by the heavy truths of Your Word. Lord, we thank You for the profound witness of the apostles and the early martyrs who loved You more than their own lives. Their courage reminds us that this world is not our final home.

Give us the courage to stand firm against compromise. When our faith is tested by social pressure, family betrayal, or physical danger, anchor our souls in Your indestructible peace. Remove the fear of man from our hearts and replace it with a burning devotion to Jesus Christ.

We lift up our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world today who face the literal threat of death for Your Name. Wrap them in Your presence, give them supernatural boldness, and remind them that their suffering is not in vain. May our lives be a living testimony to Your truth, no matter the cost.

In the powerful name of Jesus, we pray,

Amen.

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Bible Study Tools I Use

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King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
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Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

WHEN WILL THESE THINGS HAPPEN? LUKE 21:7-19

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 21:7-9

When Will These Things Happen? Living with Hope in Uncertain Times

We live in a world obsessed with timelines. We want to know when the economy will shift, when a crisis will end, and ultimately, what the future holds. This deep-seated human desire for certainty isn’t new. In Luke 21:7–19, the disciples look at the magnificent temple in Jerusalem, and after hearing Jesus prophesy its complete destruction, they immediately ask the question that echoes through the centuries: “Teacher, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?”

Jesus’ response is both a sober warning and a powerful anchor for our faith today.

The Dual Lens of Prophecy

As we dive into Jesus’ words, biblical scholars often note a unique prophetic pattern. Jesus’ response links the destruction of Jerusalem (which occurred historically in 70 A.D.) so closely to His Second Coming that it can be difficult to separate the threads.

Think of it like looking at a mountain range from a distance. Two distinct peaks might look like they are right next to each other, but as you get closer, you realize there is a massive valley of time between them. Jesus likely used the tragic fall of Jerusalem as a powerful symbol and a micro-preview of His final coming to judge the world and restore all things.

By blending these timelines, Jesus shifts the focus away from satisfying our curiosity about exact calendar dates. Instead, He teaches us how to live in the tension of the “already but not yet.”

Staying Anchored in Chaos

If you look at the world around you today, the signs Jesus described feel incredibly familiar:

Deception: Many claiming to have the ultimate answers or spiritual truth (Luke 21:8).
Turmoil: Wars, insurrections, earthquakes, famines, and plagues (Luke 21:9–11).
Persecution: Believers facing opposition, betrayal by loved ones, and systemic pressure for their faith (Luke 21:12–17).

It sounds terrifying. Yet, right in the middle of describing global and personal upheaval, Jesus drops a revolutionary anchor: “But not a hair of your head will perish. Stand firm, and you will win life” (Luke 21:18–19).

Jesus isn’t promising that we will escape physical hardship or difficult seasons. Rather, He is promising absolute spiritual security. When your soul is anchored in Christ, the shaking of the world cannot shake your ultimate destiny.

The Valley is Your Opportunity

Perhaps the most practical takeaway from this passage is found in Luke 21:13. Jesus tells His followers that times of intense pressure and cultural shifting “will result in your being witnesses to them.”

The chaos of our world is not a signal to hide, panic, or stockpile fear. It is a stage set for the gospel. When everything else is falling apart, the steady, unshakeable peace of a Christian becomes a brilliant light. The “valley of time” we are living in right now is our divine opportunity to show the world where true security is found.

You don’t need to know the exact date on the calendar to be ready for the future. You just need to know the One who holds the calendar. Stand firm, keep your eyes on Him, and let your life be a witness to His unchanging truth.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You acknowledging that our world often feels unstable and overwhelming. When we look at the news and see the shaking of nations, it is easy for fear to take root in our hearts. Forgive us for the times we demand to know the future rather than trusting You with our present.

Thank You for the reminder in Luke 21 that nothing catches You by surprise. You are sovereign over history, over the nations, and over our individual lives. We ask for the grace to stand firm when deception and trials come our way. Guard our hearts against anxiety, and remind us that our ultimate security is held fast in Your hands.

Holy Spirit, give us the wisdom and boldness to speak Your truth when we are given the opportunity. May our lives be a steady witness to Your love, peace, and justice in a chaotic world. We anchor our hope not in a timeline, but in the promise of Your return and the reality of Your kingdom.

In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

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Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

WARS AND REVOLUTIONS / LUKE 21:9

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 21:9

But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.

Finding Peace in a Shaking World: A Reflection on Luke 21:9

It is almost impossible to scroll through a news feed today without seeing headlines about geopolitical tension, civil unrest, and escalating conflicts. In a world filled with constant digital updates, the sheer volume of global crises can easily leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and deeply unsettled.

Yet, these cycles of unrest are not new to human history, nor are they a surprise to God. In Luke 21:9, Jesus addresses these exact moments with a powerful command and a reassuring truth:

“When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be terrified. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.”

When the ground beneath us shakes, how do we anchor our hearts? Let’s explore what Jesus’ words mean for us today and how we can live with confidence instead of panic.

1. The Command: “Do Not Be Terrified”

The Greek word used for “terrified” or “alarmed” suggests a state of sudden, frantic panic or being thrown into confusion. Jesus knew that human nature naturally responds to conflict with fear. When political systems fracture or violence erupts, our survival instincts kick in.

However, Christ calls His followers to a different standard. He does not say, “Ignore the news” or “Pretend everything is fine.” Instead, He tells us not to let the chaos of the world dictate the condition of our hearts. Because our security is rooted in an unshakeable Kingdom, we do not have to panic when earthly powers tremble.

2. The Context: Routine History, Unchanging Sovereignty

Jesus reminds us that “these things must happen first.” He reframes our perspective on global conflict. Uprisings, revolutions, and wars are tragic symptoms of a broken, fallen world, but they do not mean God has lost control.

Historically, Jesus was preparing His disciples for the coming upheavals surrounding the fall of Jerusalem. Universally, He reminds every generation of believers that global instability is part of human history—but it is always subordinate to God’s ultimate timeline. History is not a series of random, chaotic events; it is a narrative firmly held in the hands of the Creator.

3. Our Response: Watch, Pray, and Trust

If we aren’t supposed to panic, what are we supposed to do?

Guard your heart: Limit the constant intake of anxiety-inducing media.
Shift your focus: Fix your eyes on the character of God rather than the chaos of the news.
Be a beacon of hope: When the world is frantic, a calm, trusting Christian is a powerful testimony. We are called to embody the peace of Christ to those around us.

The end may not follow immediately, but God’s presence is available right now. We can face an uncertain future with absolute certainty because we know the One who holds tomorrow.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You today acknowledging that the world around us often feels chaotic and broken. When we see headlines of wars, revolutions, and deep divisions, our hearts are tempted to give in to fear and anxiety.

Lord, we thank You for the comforting words of Jesus in Luke 21:9. Remind us today that You are not surprised by the state of our world. You remain firmly on Your throne, sovereign over history and over our lives. When everything else shakes, help us anchor our trust in Your unshakeable Kingdom.

We pray for peace where there is conflict. Comfort those who are suffering, displaced, or living in fear tonight. Grant wisdom to global leaders and protect the vulnerable. Quiet our own anxious thoughts and fill us with a peace that surpasses human understanding. Give us the courage to stand firm in faith, to love our neighbors, and to shine Your light in a dark world.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

WATCH OUT THAT YOU ARE NOT DECEIVED /LUKE 21:8

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 21:8

As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

Standing Firm: How to Guard Your Heart Against Deception (Luke 21:8)

We live in an information-heavy world. Every day, thousands of voices clamor for our attention. Social media feeds, news outlets, popular podcasts, and self-proclaimed gurus all promise to give us the ultimate truth. They tell us how to live, what to believe, and who to follow.

But long before the internet or modern media outlets existed, Jesus gave His disciples a critical warning that hits incredibly close to home today.

In Luke 21:8, Jesus says:

“Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them.”

When the disciples asked Jesus about the signs of the end times, they were likely looking for physical markers like geopolitical shifts or grand cosmic events. Instead, the very first thing Jesus warned them about was not an external military threat, but an internal spiritual one: deception.

The Nature of Deception

Deception is rarely obvious. If a lie looked like a lie, no one would fall for it. It is dangerous precisely because it wraps itself in just enough truth to look authentic.

Jesus explicitly notes two tactics these deceptive voices will use:

Misusing His Name: They will claim authority from God, using religious language or spiritual platforms to build false trust.
Exploiting Fear: They will use urgent, fear-inducing language—saying “the time is near”—to panic people into compliance.

When we are driven by anxiety or searching for quick spiritual fixes, we become highly vulnerable to these counterfeits.

How to Stay Grounded

So, how do we obey Jesus’ command to “watch out”?

Anchor Yourself in Scripture: Bank tellers learn to spot counterfeit money not by studying fake bills, but by becoming deeply familiar with the texture and details of the real currency. To spot spiritual deception, you must know the real Word of God. Make daily scripture reading a priority.
Filter Out the Noise: Be selective about who you allow to influence your mind and spirit. If a teacher or influencer is pointing you toward fear, division, or themselves rather than Christ, step away.
Look for Fruit, Not Flash: Deceptive movements often come with a lot of hype, charisma, and emotional manipulation. True kingdom living is marked by the quiet, steady fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Jesus isn’t asking us to live in hyper-paranoid fear. He is calling us to live in prayerful vigilance. When your life is anchored in the true character of Jesus Christ, the loud, deceptive voices of the world lose their power over you.

A Closing Prayer for Discernment

Heavenly Father,

We come before You today acknowledging that the world around us is loud and often confusing. Thank You for the loving honesty of Your Son, Jesus, who warned us ahead of time to guard our hearts against deception.

Lord, we ask for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit’s discernment. Give us eyes to see through falsehoods and ears that tune out the noise of fear and panic. Forgive us for the times we have easily followed after voices that do not belong to You.

Anchor our souls deeply in the truth of Your Holy Word. Let Scripture be our ultimate filter for everything we read, watch, and hear. Grant us the spiritual strength to stand firm and the courage to refuse to follow anything that leads us away from true faith in Jesus Christ.

We place our trust, our minds, and our futures securely in Your hands.

In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

NOT ONE STONE WILL BE LEFT ON ANOTHER / LUKE 21:6

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 21:6

As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

The Weight of Prophecy: Lessons from the Fall of the Temple

In Luke 21:6, Jesus utters a staggering prophecy while His disciples marvel at the grandeur of Herod’s Temple: “As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”

To the disciples, the Temple was the center of the universe—an architectural masterpiece built with massive, beautiful stones that seemed completely immovable. Yet, Jesus saw past the physical grandeur to a sobering spiritual reality.

The Precision of History

The literal fulfillment of Jesus’ words is one of the most astonishing testimonies to the accuracy of Scripture. In A.D. 70, exactly a generation after Jesus gave the warning, the Roman general Titus marched his army against a rebellious Jerusalem.

What followed was a horrific, agonizing siege lasting 134 days.

When the Roman forces finally breached the city walls, the temple was set ablaze. The immense heat caused the vast gold and silver treasures stored within the sanctuary to melt, seeping down into the crevices between the stones. To salvage the precious metals, Roman soldiers systematically pried apart the structure block by block.

Just as Jesus predicted, not one stone was left on top of another.

A Judgment with a Message

The destruction of the temple was not a random tragedy of war; it was a visible judgment on Israel for rejecting God’s Son and His offer of salvation. For centuries, the temple had symbolized God’s presence under the Old Covenant. But when the true Messiah arrived, the religious leadership and the nation as a whole closed their hearts to Him.

By rejecting Jesus, they chose a path of self-reliance, nationalistic pride, and eventual destruction. The leveling of the temple marked the end of the old sacrificial system, proving that human institutions, monuments, and religious pride cannot shield us if we ignore the living God.

What Luke 21:6 Teaches Us Today

This historic event leaves us with three vital truths for our own walk of faith:

God’s Word is Unshakeable: Heaven and earth will pass away, but Christ’s words remain true. If God is precise about His warnings, He is equally precise about His promises of salvation and restoration.
Beware of Spiritual Idolatry: The people of Jerusalem worshipped the temple but rejected the Lord of the temple. We must ensure we do not fall in love with our structures, traditions, or accomplishments while ignoring an intimate relationship with Jesus.
The Urgency of Receptive Hearts: Today is the day of salvation. When God speaks, disciplines, or redirects our lives, we must respond with humility and faith rather than stubborn resistance.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we look at history and stand in awe of Your absolute truth and sovereignty. Your Word never fails, and Your warnings are given out of deep love to lead us to repentance. Lord, forgive us for the times we have trusted in temporary things—our own structures, our comfort, or our personal pride—instead of anchoring our souls in You.

We thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to be our true and everlasting Sanctuary. Give us soft hearts that receive His truth, obey His voice, and welcome His salvation every single day. Keep us watchful, faithful, and deeply rooted in Your grace. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

THE WIDOW’S OFFERING / LUKE 21:1-4

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 21:1-4

The Economy of Heaven: How God Evaluates Our Giving (Luke 21:1-4)

We often measure the success of a project, a ministry, or a gift by its size and visible impact. We look at the total dollar amount, the number of people in attendance, or the scope of an organization’s influence. But in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus completely flips our human metrics upside down.

In Luke 21:1-4, we are given a profound look at how God evaluates what we bring to Him.

The Contrast at the Temple Treasury

While standing in the Temple precinct, Jesus watches the wealthy drop their large, substantial gifts into the treasury boxes (Luke 21:1). Right behind them comes a poor widow. She drops in two tiny copper coins—known as mites—which were worth a fraction of a single day’s wage (Luke 21:2).

To any casual observer, her contribution was completely negligible. It wouldn’t pay for a single brick in the Temple structure or fund a major ministry project. Yet, Jesus halts His disciples to make a startling declaration:

“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.” – Luke 21:3-4

Portion vs. Proportion

Jesus reveals a beautiful, challenging spiritual principle: A person’s gift is determined not by the amount given, but by the amount of sacrifice involved in the giving.

The Rich: Gave out of their surplus. Their lifestyle remained entirely unchanged. They gave from a position of total financial security, requiring no real reliance on God’s provision.
The Widow: Gave out of her lack. Her gift cost her everything. By giving away her last two coins, she was handing her entire survival over to the providence of God.

God does not look at the size of our bank accounts; He looks at the condition of our hearts. He measures our generosity not by what we give, but by what we keep for ourselves.

Applying the Principle to Our Service

This divine standard extends far beyond financial tithing. It applies directly to all our service for Jesus.

When we step into ministry, leadership, or everyday service, it is easy to fall into the trap of comparing our influence to others. We might worry that our small Sunday school class, our hidden acts of hospitality, or our quiet prayers don’t matter in the grand scheme of the Kingdom.

But just as Jesus looked past the massive sacks of gold to honor two small copper coins, He looks past outward metrics to see your heart. He judges our work and ministry not by its size or worldly success, but by the depth of sincere dedication, sacrifice, faith, and love involved (see also Luke 22:24-30; Matthew 20:26).

If you are giving your best from a place of deep love for Christ—even if it feels small to the world—He smiles and declares that you have given the most.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and for the timeless truth of the widow’s offering. Forgive us for the times we have evaluated our worth, our giving, or our ministries through the eyes of the world rather than through Your eyes. Forgive us when we hold back, giving only what is safe, comfortable, or convenient.

Lord, teach us the beauty of true sacrifice. We ask that You cultivate hearts of deep faith and radical trust within us. May our offerings of money, time, gifts, and life-energy flow from a place of pure devotion to You. Give us the courage to live lives fully surrendered to Your provision, knowing that You see, value, and multiply every small thing given in love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026September 14, 2026

BEWARE OF THE TEACHERS OF THE LAW /LUKE 20:46

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 20:46

Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;

Authenticity Over Appearance: Learning from Jesus’ Warning in Luke 20:46

We live in a world obsessed with curation. From perfectly filtered social media grids to carefully crafted professional bios, it is easier than ever to build an external image of success, wisdom, and righteousness. Yet, this struggle with performance is nothing new. Two thousand years ago, Jesus stood in the temple courts and issued a fierce, direct warning to His followers about the ultimate performance artists of His day: “Beware of the teachers of the law” (Luke 20:46).

In this brief but punchy verse, Jesus pulls back the curtain on religious leaders who used the appearance of holiness to mask a deeper emptiness. By studying His words, we can uncover a vital checkup for our own hearts.

The Anatomy of a Spiritual Show

Jesus didn’t hold back. He explicitly detailed exactly what these “experts” were doing, and why it was so dangerous:

The Desire for Status: They loved walking around in flowing robes. These weren’t just clothes; they were status symbols designed to command immediate attention.
The Craving for Affirmation: They lived for respectful greetings in public marketplaces. Their identity was entirely anchored in how others perceived them.
The Pursuit of Power: They claimed the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They prioritized being elevated above everyone else.

But the true tragedy comes in the very next verse. Jesus points out that while they made a grand public show of lengthy prayers, they were simultaneously “devouring widows’ houses” (Luke 20:47). Their external religion wasn’t just a harmless preference for nice things—it was a shield used to exploit the most vulnerable.

The Mirror: Checking Our Own Hearts

It is easy to point fingers at the Pharisees and scribes of ancient times, or even at high-profile religious figures today who fall into greed. But Jesus’ warnings are always mirrors meant for us to look inward.

We must ask ourselves:

Do we care more about looking like a good Christian on Sunday than practicing quiet obedience on Monday?
Do we serve in our communities or churches to be noticed by others, or out of genuine love for God?
Are we using our knowledge of scripture to lift ourselves up, or to humbly serve those around us?

God is never impressed by the length of our prayers, the titles we carry, or the respect we command. He looks straight past the flowing robes and directly at the heart. True faith does not demand the best seat in the room; it willingly takes the towel and washes the feet of others.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You recognizing how easily our hearts can drift into performance. Forgive us for the times we have cared more about human applause than Your quiet approval. Guard our hearts against spiritual pride, hypocrisy, and the temptation to put on a show.

Holy Spirit, strip away any desire within us for status, recognition, or power. Instead, clothe us with true humility. Help us to love scripture not as a weapon for status, but as a pathway to know You deeper. Give us a genuine love for the vulnerable, the overlooked, and the hurting. May our private devotion match our public witness, and may our lives bring true honor to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

DAVID CALLS HIM ‘LORD’ / LUKE 20:44

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 20:44

David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son?

More Than a King: Discovering the Divine Identity of the Messiah

For generations, the Jewish people anticipated a savior. They read the prophecies, looked at their history, and expected a Messiah who would look a lot like their greatest historical leader: King David. They looked forward to a human ruler, a political hero who would break physical chains, sit on an earthly throne, and restore Israel to geopolitical power.

But in Luke 20:44, Jesus stops the religious leaders in their tracks with a brilliant, scriptural question that shatters their limited expectations.

Jesus quotes Psalms 110:1, asking: “David therefore calls him ‘Lord’; how is he then his son?”

Expanding Our View of Christ

With this single question, Jesus reveals that the Messiah is not merely a descendant of King David; He is the Son of God. In ancient Jewish culture, a father or ancestor would never call his son or descendant “Lord.” The ancestor always held the higher status. Yet, inspired by the Holy Spirit, David looks forward into time and addresses his own future descendant as his divine Master.

This passage teaches us two beautiful, foundational truths:

He is truly human: As the “Son of David,” Jesus fulfilled the earthly prophecies, stepping into our world, understanding our weaknesses, and walking in our shoes.
He is truly divine: As David’s “Lord,” He is eternal, sovereign, and sits at the right hand of God the Father. He didn’t just come to solve temporary, earthly problems; He came to defeat sin and death forever.

When we limit Jesus to a mere human teacher, a historical figure, or a good moral example, we miss the full picture. He is not just a leader to admire; He is the Lord of Lords to be worshiped. He does not just want a seat in our lives; He demands the throne.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We stand in awe of Your perfect plan of redemption. Thank You for sending Jesus, who didn’t just come as an earthly ruler to fix temporary problems, but as the divine Son of God to rescue our souls forever. Forgive us for the times we try to shrink You down to fit our limited expectations or treat You as a casual part of our lives rather than the Lord of our lives.

Holy Spirit, open our eyes to see the full majesty of Christ. We join King David in declaring that Jesus is Lord. We surrender our timelines, our worries, and our hearts to His sovereign authority today. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in us.

In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

LIKE THE ANGELS / LUKE 20:35-36

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 20:35-36

But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: ³⁶Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection.

Like the Angels: Understanding Our Eternal Future

In Luke 20:35-36, Jesus pulls back the curtain on eternity, offering us a profound glimpse into what awaits believers in the next age: “But those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage; for they cannot even die anymore, because they are like angels, and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.”

This powerful promise reshapes how we view life, death, and the relationships we hold dear today. When Jesus considers our future reality, He reveals that eternal life begins with a radical transformation. We will receive new, glorified bodies that are entirely immune to decay, sickness, and death. We will truly be “like the angels” in our immortality.

A New Way of Relating

Jesus clarifies that life in the resurrection will no longer include earthly constructs like marriage. While this can sometimes spark questions or even a sense of hesitation, it does not mean our future is cold or disconnected.

The fact that our relationships will be different does not mean we will not recognize each other or remember our previous relationships. On the contrary, Scripture shows us that our identities and memories endure:

Recognition remains intact: After His own resurrection, Jesus was clearly recognized by His disciples (Luke 24:31, 39; Matthew 28:9). He was not a vague, unrecognizable spirit; He was deeply known by those who loved Him.
Relationships are elevated, not erased: Our earthly bonds will be transformed into something much greater. In eternity, the love we share with family and friends won’t disappear—it will be swallowed up in a perfect, universal fellowship with the entire family of God.

We will not miss what is left behind, because we will be fully satisfied in the presence of the Creator, standing together as sons and daughters of the resurrection.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful and breathtaking hope of the resurrection. Thank You that this earthly life is not the end, and that You have prepared a future for us where death, pain, and decay have no hold. Help us to anchor our hearts in this truth when the weights of this world feel heavy.

Teach us to value our earthly relationships deeply, while always keeping our eyes fixed on the eternal glory ahead. We look forward to the day when we will receive our glorified bodies, fully alive and fully known, standing like the angels in Your holy presence. Until that day, keep us faithful, joyful, and filled with hope.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 14, 2026

SADDUCESS / LUKE 20:27

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 20:27

Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection; and they asked him,

The God of the Living: Finding Hope in Luke 20:27

We often try to box the mysteries of eternity into the familiar boundaries of our earthly lives. We worry about the wrong logistics, project our current limitations onto a future glory, and treat deep spiritual realities like a puzzle to solve.

In Luke 20:27, we see this exact human tendency on full display when a group of Sadducees—religious leaders known for denying the resurrection—approach Jesus with what they think is a flawless theological trap.

The Trap of Earthly Thinking

The Sadducees pose a hypothetical scenario based on the law of levirate marriage. They tell a story of a woman who marries seven consecutive brothers, each dying childless before the next takes her as a wife. Their smug concluding question is simple: At the resurrection, whose wife will she be?

They weren’t looking for truth; they were trying to make the concept of eternal life look ridiculous. They assumed that if heaven existed, it must simply be a copy-and-paste version of earth, bound by the same physical, legal, and relational structures.

A Reality Transformed

Jesus’ response completely shatters their small-minded paradigm. He explains that the rules of this age do not dictate the age to come.

Beyond Earthly Labels: In the resurrection, human relationships are not discarded, but they are elevated. Earthly marriage, designed partly for companionship and procreation in a mortal world, gives way to a perfect, universal family.
Children of the Resurrection: Jesus explains that those who reach that age “can no longer die, for they are like the angels—they are God’s children, since they are children of the resurrection”.
The God of the Living: To anchor His point using scriptures the Sadducees actually respected, Jesus quotes Moses at the burning bush. God calls Himself the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob long after they had passed away. Jesus delivers the ultimate truth: “He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive”.

Living with Resurrection Hope Today

This encounter isn’t just an ancient theological debate; it changes how we face reality right now.

When we view our lives strictly through the lens of our current circumstances, death, loss, and brokenness feel like the final word. But Jesus promises that our story doesn’t end in a graveyard. The resurrection isn’t a mere continuation of our fragile, broken earthly lives—it is a complete, glorious transformation.

Because we belong to the God of the living, no sorrow we face today is permanent, no goodbye is final, and no failure can outrun His redeeming life. We can stop obsessing over small, earthly anxieties and start living as citizens of an unshakeable, eternal kingdom.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—the God of the living, not the dead. Forgive us for the times we look at eternity through our narrow, earthly limitations. Thank You for the breathtaking promise of the resurrection, a reality where death has no power and tears are wiped away.

When we are overwhelmed by the losses, fears, and unanswered questions of this life, anchor our hearts in Your eternal truth. Help us to live today not as people defeated by the world, but as children of the resurrection. Fill us with the hope of Your unfolding kingdom, and teach us to trust You with both our present days and our eternal destiny. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace