April 26th

Scripture - Mark 7

Observation - Jesus taught about being clean and unclean. He explained to the people that it is what flows out of the heart that matters, not what comes in. This is opposite of what the Pharisees taught. The Pharisees took the laws of clean and unclean to the extreme. They considered themselves self-righteous by following ceremonial traditions. Jesus then points out their own diseased hearts- “It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart. ”” Mark‬ ‭7:15‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Application - If you looked at your heart right now, what would it look like? It’s easy to feel lost living life and trying to get through the hard times. Our hearts seem to wander when we lose focus on Jesus. Today, invite God to help what is inside of you reflect Him- His ways, his abundant life.

Prayer - God, it is so easy to get caught up in tradition or appearances. Would you help me to instead allow you to transform me, starting with the inside. Teach me what it means to truly reflect you in my thoughts, my life and my love for others. Help me to pray for others and be someone others can come to when in need. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.