Bible Study & Devotional Day 91
Written By Torrie Slaughter
Guiding Scripture:Luke 9:46-48
🔴 Above You But, Under God (From the Gospel of Luke 24 Day Devotional)
- Narcissistic personality disorder — one of several types of personality disorders — is a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that’s vulnerable to the slightest criticism. (Mayo Clinic)
In today’s reading, we observe a few different personalities. At the forefront is a desire to be first. The above definition of a narcissistic personality is there to help frame our Bible study. We hurt others when we don’t hold ourselves accountable. As you read, think about the ways you have impacted the environment of your home, office, organization, or church. God is our ultimate healer, but it begins with telling the truth.
Luke 9:25 Insecurity in Christ breeds arguments, discord, jealousy, and envy. It brings out the competitive sin nature, an elitist attitude- being “seen” as better than everyone else. The loads we carry, the amount of effort we put into our projects, and how we live our lives should all come from a place of love.
When we want better, we should encourage everyone around us to do so—not seen as the motivator but as disciples of Christ. (read John 13:14-15)
Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. He left the example of how we are to treat each other no matter our perceived status. Who is the greatest among us?…No one if we are all clamoring to lord over one another. (Matthew 20:25)
As we read Luke 9:48
the argument between the disciples appears not to have ended with Jesus’ teaching about humility. Matthew 20:20-24 and Mark 10:35-41 tell us that Salome, James and John’s mother, went to Jesus to request her sons be placed at His right and left hand in His Kingdom. (Matthew 20:20)
Our motivation for asking or suggesting how someone should live, equip, or direct as Christ-followers need to be motivated by the Holy Spirit. Salome’s request caused further tension among the disciples. Matthew 20:24
We may see ourselves in these accounts. Salome wanted the best for her children and was looking towards their earthly future. James and John wanted to be viewed as the greatest among the disciples.
However,
The Son of God was about to die for our sins and wanted the disciples to humble themselves like children to teach and shepherd His flock. We are reading about Christ-followers that did not have a clear understanding of what Jesus was doing. Luke 9:45 Jesus, the Son of God, continued to teach, up to His last breath.
How much more compassion and understanding do you think He has for us?
~Torrie
Points to Ponder:
- Who is your competition?
- Do you take advantage of others to get what you want?
- Is having the best of everything your priority?
- Do you easily become impatient or angry if you don’t receive special treatment?
This devotional was written by Torrie Slaughter with an excerpt from her Gospel of Luke 24 Day Devotional. Torrie is the founder of Our Given Purpose®.
🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20, Luke 9:28-50, Psalm 73:1-28, Proverbs 12:10
