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“But they could not find a way to do it, because all the people were captivated by what they heard.” Luke 19:48 (HCSB)

Smooth talk .. persuasive words – we’ve all heard them. Sometimes it’s the caller asking for a donation or a salesman trying to convince us their product is the one we can’t do without. Regardless, they attempt to move us toward belief in what they have or motivate us to give to what they need. Words seeking to birth their desired reaction.

Flip back through the pages of scripture and we find One who didn’t need smooth talk or persuasive words. Jesus, the living Son of God, spoke only the truth and the people were captivated. They listened and hung on His every word as He taught in the temple.

The Chief Priests, Scribes and leaders didn’t like the appearance of Jesus in their space. When He came on the scene and threw out the sellers cleansing was not an element they desired. Monetary gain and control was their driving force and now the center of attention was clearly focused on someone else. Jesus’ captive audience was temporarily derailing their plan to destroy Him.

Wonder what impact God’s word has on our lives? Are we captivated, motivated and inspired to obey His truths? Do we cling to every word seeking to understand His message? Or perhaps we are more interested in what makes us feel good. As seasoned believers, do we long for the spotlight of self-righteousness wrapped up in our hidden agendas and the message we long to convey? Or do we simply embrace familiarity while excusing our response?

Threatened by Jesus appearance and His words, these religious leaders missed the blessing found in embracing the truth. Let’s not join them. Let’s determine to be captivated by God’s word. Let’s commit to being doers of the word and not just hearers. Let’s be intentional about obedience and promoters of His agenda and not our own. Let’s approach His words with awe and anticipation. Let’s welcome transformation and never forget the power of His words to birth change and holiness in our lives. Let’s pray His words, hold them tight to our hearts and be amazed, captivated and challenged by the very words of One who loves us more than we could ever imagine.

“Father there will be many things to keep us from Your word…distractions…. pursuits…many other things to do – empower us to choose the best – to gather at Your feet and listen closely to Your words.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life