40Flex Journey | Day 02

The power to change.

"Jesus's early ministry is what people would call a game-changer. Yet it is His onward ministry, as it touches us today, that is a life-changer."

Today, in Matthew chapters 3 and 4, I meet a travelling preacher who’s ministry was to tell everyone to be ready for a huge change in their lives—to prepare a super-highway for the coming Lord. Anyone go through big changes recently? Anyone?

Well, it seems God is in the business of change.

I witness a Father commend his Son. I see Jesus tempted and the devil flee. I end the passage by meeting the first disciples of Jesus, each of them immediately following. And with Jesus healing everyone.

This is just day two.

Let’s Read

Matthew Chapters 3 & 4 →

Now Think About This

Do you know that Jesus can REALLY change your life?

This question always comes to mind. Jesus's early ministry is what people would call a game-changer. Yet it is His onward ministry, as it touches us today, that is a life-changer. Have I fully embraced the life-changing power of Christ’s love for us?

Is my life a clear road to Christ?

John the Baptist is calling for us to clear the road for him! (Matt 3.3). The way I live should lead others to Christ. I should be a clear road that leads to Him. Might I be leaving debris or pot-holes that are a hazard to others?

Recognizing weakness.

In Jesus’s hunger and physical weakness he says: Get out of here, Satan... Then the devil went away..." (Matt 4.10). I can be most effective when I most recognise my weakness and my need of God. Anyone up for a fast? 😬

He healed them all. – Matt 4:24 – 🤯

Bonus round. Bonus points. 🚀

John the Baptist speaking to pharisees: Don’t just say to each other, ‘We’re safe, for we are descendants of Abraham.’ That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham from these very stones.

It speaks much to me because I was brought up a Christian. But as JTB puts it bluntly: that means nothing (Matt 3.9). Who my parents are and what they brought me up in is irrelevant when it comes to my dealings with God.

That last part, while so sharp, is also very hopeful — God can make heirs to the kingdom out of anyone, regardless of upbringing, or past, or present creed.

Song of the Day

"God Really Loves Us"

The Challenge

Big Steps Forward

01.
Prepare the Way

Identify one area of your life needing change and commit to clearing the path for Jesus today.

02.
Seek Strength

Recognize a personal weakness and fast from a distraction for a week to seek God more deeply.

03.
Lead Others

Demonstrate your faith through kindness or testimony, being a "clear road" that leads others to Christ.