Begin with 2 minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Perhaps you associate a negative connotation with the word “warning.” A warning can be a declaration that something terrible is about to take place; impending danger. However, it can also mean cautionary advice. To the best of my understanding, we can look at Jesus’ warnings in Matthew chapter 18 as a collection of cautionary advice that He gave the disciples. Just as students ask their teacher questions to gain knowledge, wisdom, and application, the followers of Christ were a curious bunch. At times, the disciples were so preoccupied with the organization of Jesus’ earthly kingdom that they lost sight of His divine purpose and needed a little redirection. In this chapter, Jesus spends some time warning the disciples what NOT to do; but He never left them without direction. He always gave them the blueprint of what they were to do instead. Let’s check out a few of those instructions. 

Do NOT be childish, arguing over petty issues but BE childlike, with humble and sincere hearts.

Do NOT let yourself be tempted but rather REMOVE stumbling blocks that cause you to sin.

Do NOT look down on others but KNOW that each one is important to God so much so that He would leave the ninety-nine safely on the hill to go in search of the one who had wandered off and was lost.

Do NOT turn away from someone who wrongs you in hatred or resentment, seeking revenge, but rather GO first to that person, as difficult as that may be, and forgive them as often as he or she needs. (This will create a much better chance of restoring the relationship.)

Do NOT forgive only once or even seven times but rather DO forgive seventy-seven times. We shouldn’t keep track of how many times we forgive someone. We should always forgive those who are repentant no matter how many times they ask. Isn't this what God does for us?

Do NOT withhold forgiveness from others but REMEMBER how completely Christ has forgiven you. When we don’t forgive those who have wronged us, we are setting ourselves outside and above Christ’s law of love.

I am thankful for the Lord’s cautionary advice! I long for His guidelines and parameters that keep me within His will. Just like the disciples, I have questions and I’m curious. The Bible is where I turn for answers. It is the blueprint for abundant life.

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence. 

Reflection:

• What questions do you have for your Creator? Pray for the boldness to ask Him what’s on your heart or swirling around in your mind.
  
• Is there a piece of Biblical advice from chapter 18 that you are struggling to understand or accept? Is there anyone you are struggling to forgive? When you are alone with God, make a plan with Him to take a step toward following His teachings.
  
• Prayer: Heavenly Father, Your ways are higher and we believe that. They are often more difficult to live out but we know and trust that Your ways are always better. Your plan for how we should live life brings awareness and fullness to our lives. Through Your Spirit, guide us to be humble like children, ready to forgive, and less judgmental of others. With Your strength, I know there is victory. In the matchless Name of Jesus. Amen.