That evening [after healing Peter's mother-in-law,] many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and he healed all the sick. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said,
"He took our sicknesses
and removed our diseases."
—Matthew 8:16-17 NLT
Matthew continues to show us Jesus' power over what destroys our lives. Interestingly, it is Jesus' touch and word that are so powerful in these stories. His touch seems to be more of a demonstration of God's love, while his word is a demonstration of his authority and power. Matthew reminds us, however, that Jesus' authority and power are not for his personal gain, but for the blessing of those in need. He is God's promised servant! His authority is demonstrated in his service to us. Thus, as we seek to be like Jesus, we need to be servants as he was (John 13:12-17).
Mighty and majestic God, I am touched by Jesus' humble use of his power to bless others. Please keep my heart humble and pure so that I may be used by you to bless others. Help me be more a "burden-lifter" and a "blessing-giver." In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2021 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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"He took our sicknesses
and removed our diseases."
—Matthew 8:16-17 NLT
Key Thought
Matthew continues to show us Jesus' power over what destroys our lives. Interestingly, it is Jesus' touch and word that are so powerful in these stories. His touch seems to be more of a demonstration of God's love, while his word is a demonstration of his authority and power. Matthew reminds us, however, that Jesus' authority and power are not for his personal gain, but for the blessing of those in need. He is God's promised servant! His authority is demonstrated in his service to us. Thus, as we seek to be like Jesus, we need to be servants as he was (John 13:12-17).
Today's Prayer
Mighty and majestic God, I am touched by Jesus' humble use of his power to bless others. Please keep my heart humble and pure so that I may be used by you to bless others. Help me be more a "burden-lifter" and a "blessing-giver." In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2021 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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