Pastor Gary's OYB Devotion Archive for February 24

“Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. ‘All of you listen,’ he said, ‘and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart'” (Mark 7:14-15 NLT)

From: February 24, 2014

Jesus explained that sin begins with an attitude of the heart before it becomes a behavior. Focusing on changing the behavior is unfruitful when only faith in Jesus will change the heart. The human heart is born with an attitude of rebellion against God saying, “My will,” rather than “Your will be done.” This teaching of Jesus also served notice that certain Pharisaical cleanliness laws were human additions to the Mosaic law and therefore not binding. This is an example of the saying that “law begets law.” The Pharisees had not lightened the burden of the people, instead they had added to it.

“May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation say continually, ‘Great is the LORD!'” (Psalm 40:16 ESV)

From: February 24, 2013

This is both call to worship and benediction. Seeking the Lord, may you be full of joy and gladness in Him. Finding salvation, may you swell with such chesed love that you shout of God’s greatness.

“You let them disregard their needy parents. And so you cancel the word of God” (Mark 7:12-13)

From: February 24, 2012

The 5th commandment says to “honor” your parents. This means to “give them their due.” What are they due? Respect & love? Yes. But also, financial support. Jesus warned the Pharisees about not caring for their parents. Children are to care for their elderly parents.

“Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin” (Proverbs 10:14)

From: February 24, 2011

The wise man listens and reflects. The fool blabs on and on without thinking. How can wisdom increase without hearing? He that hath ears let him hear. Be still and know.