April 30, 2021: SOAP #4166:  2Samuel 6; 1Chronicles 13; Psalm 68; Matthew 17

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 17:22 When they came together in Galilee, he said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. 23 They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life.” And the disciples were filled with grief.

OBSERVATION: When Jesus spoke of the cross, he also spoke of the resurrection.  The disciples were so consumed with the cross, they did not take note of the part about the resurrection.  Instead of hiding, they could have been having a pre-celebration celebration!  They could have been celebrating His promise in preparation for the Celebration of His resurrection!   

APPLICATION: Learning from the disciples:  How many times have I been discouraged because of the hardship I am experiencing.  I should be rejoicing in His promise.  Faith in God’s promise is expressed in my attitude, words, actions while I am going through the difficulty.  It does not take faith to rejoice when the battle is over. 

Learning from Jesus:  when I am talking about the difficulties ahead, or difficulties I am now experiencing, I need to be sure and talk about the promises of God.  I cannot forget the “third day” part of the discussion.  When I speak of my death, I need to speak of the joy of heaven.  I need to speak to my family of the reunion we will have in heaven. 

When I talk with my family and/or friends about caskets, funerals, cemeteries, etc., I certainly need to talk about heaven. 

PRAYER:  Jesus, as you passed through death and returned to our Father, so I will pass through death and join you in heaven.  May my conversation about death always include the continuation of my life in your presence.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!