Jesus replied, “Your mistake is that you don’t know the Scriptures, and you don’t know the power of God. Matthew 22:29 NLT
After the Sadducees questioned Jesus regarding a hypothetical widow, seven brothers, and the resurrection, Jesus made this statement. “Your mistake is.” It is indeed a mistake not to know the Word of God or the power of God.
Knowing the Scriptures sustains us and matures us. Scripture comforts, heals, and reassures us of His presence and promises. His words serve as a lamp to guide our feet and a light for our paths. I love how 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says that,
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Your Mistake Is Not Knowing
Not knowing the Words God exhaled into the souls of those who wrote them down for us leaves us wanting. We would be ill-equipped, ignorant, and undisciplined without the sacred guidance of Scripture. Throughout the ups and downs of life, I’ve leaned heavily on His Word. His promises helped me find my way out of the dark days of grief. They got me through the years of mothering small children. His Word helped soothe my fears, guided my decisions, and filled me with peace during the pandemic. How about you? How has His Word impacted your life? While I am not a Bible scholar, I strive to stay in the Word and learn as much as possible. But, no matter how much I know, I must confess, it’s still hard to grasp the extent of His power.
Knowing The Power Of God
I have read that His divine power has given us everything we need to live a godly life. Think about it, the Power that created the World, hung the stars, and filled the seas has also provided for you and me. His divine power makes it possible to live a life that honors Him. We are kept safe by His power, and our prayers are heard and answered by His power. We live and breathe in the strength of His power. The awe and wonder and gratitude that fills our hearts is because of His power at work in this world.
Navigating the What-Ifs
The Sadducees’ mistake was believing there was only one way for Jesus to answer their hypothetical question. When we bring our what-ifs to Jesus, we must lay our preconceived ideas at His feet. Instead, we make room for His Word to reveal answers and for His power to work in our circumstances. What-ifs, for me anyway, reveal misguided fears or beliefs. Lord, may our beliefs be Scripturally based and our fears calmed by Your power.
*For those of you who prayer walk, ask Jesus to reveal what your mistake is, confess it, and allow His power to help you grow from it. And for a copy of this week’s screensaver click here