Scripture
Once again the people picked up stones to kill him. Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone me?†John 10:31-32
Observation
This is a classic Jesus moment. An enraged crowd are screaming and waving heavy rocks. The situation is just a hair-trigger away from becoming a public lynching. Just then, Jesus has the presence of mind to ask a disarming theological question.
Who would have the poise under pressure to think of a comeback like Jesus did? The argument was, how could God bless Jesus’ ministry with miracles unless his claims were true?
How did Jesus do it? How Jesus lived every moment of his life is revealed in the moments when he almost died and eventually gave his life. Jesus lived every moment with a consciousness that his entire ministry was dependent on his Father. So in a moment of crisis that was his first thought. How he died was how Jesus lived, that is why he knew how to handle pressure.
Application
My motives are unseen until I’m backed into a corner. That is why I must be ruthless with my intentions. What I will die for will be revealed in what I’m living for. I want to think well under pressure, but that requires me to live well in every moment.
Prayer
Father, think through my mind and remind me when my motives are not worth living for, let alone dying for. And in the moments I need, give me words that reveal you best. Amen.
