Grace-filled Reflections: Daily Devotions for Abundant Living

MONDAY, 18 MARCH 2024

TEXT: Luke 20:19-26

19. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them.

20. And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.

21. And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the people of any, but teachest the way of God truly:

22. Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?

23. But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me?

24. Shew me a penny and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar’s.

25. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s, and unto God the things which be God’s.

26. And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marveled at his answer, and held their peace.

(King James Version Holy Bible)

TOPIC: AS WISE AS A SERPENT…

Sometimes, people who want to destroy you pose as friends, supporters or advisers. They flatter you and even give you the impression that they want to learn from you. If you are not wise, you are very likely to fall pray into their trap.

The Jewish religious leaders did three things to end Jesus’ ministry. They kept close watch on Him; planted spies who pretended to be sincere truth seekers; and hoped to trap Him by asking questions that could land Him in trouble.

If Jesus had approved Roman taxation, the people would have turned against Him because they considered taxation very impressive. And if he had frowned at it, the Jewish leaders would have accused him of insurrection against the Romans.

So He saved Himself from their trap by being wise and even affirmed God’s sovereign rule without making any explicit political statement against Rome. Jesus practiced what He preached and was as wise as a serpent but as harmless as a dove.

QUESTION: As a leader, are you as wise as a serpent but as harmless as a dove?

PRAYER: O Lord, make me to be like Jesus in my life. Amen.