Daily Devotional - Discipleship - WK34 - 08/23/24 - Day 215 “A Master’s Footprint"

Author: Evangelist Lisa Dalton

"A Master’s Footprint"
Scripture: Matthew 10:24-25 (NKJV)
“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house [a]Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of his household."

Devotion:
In this passage, Jesus is preparing His disciples for the reality of what it means to follow Him. He reminds them that they are not above their teacher (Jesus) or their master (again, Jesus). Just as Jesus faced opposition, misunderstanding, and even slander, so too will His followers. This teaching is a sobering reminder that being a disciple of Christ involves embracing the challenges and sufferings that come with living out His teachings in a world that often opposes them.

Jesus emphasizes that a disciple, or student, should not expect to have an easier path than their teacher. As followers of Jesus, we should not expect to avoid the difficulties He faced. Instead, we are called to walk in His footsteps, understanding that challenges and opposition are part of the journey. This perspective helps us prepare our hearts for the trials we might encounter as we strive to live faithfully.

Jesus points out that just as He, the "head of the house," was called Beelzebub (a reference to being accused of being in a league with Satan), His followers can expect to face similar accusations and misunderstandings. This teaches us that following Jesus might lead to being misunderstood or even falsely accused. However, it also reassures us that when we face such challenges, we are sharing in Christ’s experiences, and He understands our struggles.

Jesus’ words remind us that discipleship comes with a cost. It’s not a path of ease or comfort but one that often involves sacrifice and opposition. However, it is also a path of deep fulfillment and purpose, as we align ourselves with Christ’s mission and His kingdom. Our goal as disciples is not to avoid hardship, but to be faithful in the midst of it, knowing that we are following our Master’s example.

Application:
Prepare for Challenges: Reflect on the challenges you might face as a follower of Jesus. How can you prepare your heart and mind to stand firm in your faith when opposition arises? Pray for the strength to remain faithful, even when it’s difficult.

Find Strength in Christ’s Example: Remember that Jesus Himself faced opposition, slander, and suffering. When you encounter similar challenges, find comfort in knowing that you are following Him and that He understands your struggles.

Embrace the Cost: Consider what it means to truly be a disciple of Jesus. What sacrifices might you need to make to follow Him more closely? Embrace these sacrifices as part of your journey with Christ, knowing that they lead to greater spiritual growth and alignment with His will.

Prayer:
Father, we thank you for Jesus’ example. Help us to understand that living this life will come with opposition; however, also allow us to remember that You understand, and our obedience will draw us closer to You. Help us to encourage others when they are facing difficulties. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.