In 1988 a JCPenney store in Philadelphia lost close to a million dollars on one particular day. Nothing was stolen, and no merchandise was damaged. Where did the loss come from? A small group of college students hid in the store the night before and spent the whole night switching price tags. When the doors opened the next day, a Rolex watch cost $29 and a pair of men’s socks cost $50!
In our society, we usually associate the price of something with its value. If we are not careful, we can allow the price tags on items in our lives to be switched. We find ourselves undervaluing the things that God highly values. As Jesus says in Luke 16:15 “…that which is highly esteemed (valued) among men is detestable in the sight of God.”
Woe to us if we value something much more highly than God does.
Woe to us if we treat casually something that God highly values.
If someone followed you 24/7 for 2 weeks, what are some of the things they might conclude that you value?
God values the unity and permanence of marriage 10:2-12
All the rulers considered divorce was an option. Jesus flips their casual view and points to the high bar originally set at the beginning of creation. How does the current health of my marriage accurately reflect what I say that I truly value? How am I showing my wife that I value her and our marriage (Eph 5:25)?
FLM acknowledges that each marriage/divorce/remarriage situation has unique aspects. We recommend seeking biblical pastoral counsel from your church leadership if you have any concern related to walking God’s path. |
God values child-like faith, humble trustfulness 10:13-16
The disciples kept children away from Jesus and He says, “bring them to me.” They are not a distraction, they are the main exhibit of the quality necessary for the kingdom! Would Jesus commend my faith as child-like? In what ways am I over complicating the Christian life? (2Cor 11:3)
God values full surrender 10:17-31
The disciples viewed riches as blessings from God yet Jesus teaches wealth can be an obstacle to entering the kingdom of God. What is getting in the way of my sincere devotion to Christ? What is the difference between a moral man and a Master’s man?
God values redemption 10:32-34
Jesus is not deterred from the suffering that awaits Him in Jerusalem. He is set on fulfilling the Father’s mission of redemption. What is a specific example in my life right now of embracing God’s will, God’s way?
God values servanthood 10:35-45
Unlike the world’s view, Jesus continues to present greatness as servanthood. How can you “serve” and “give” your life away to others this week?
God values the “one” 10:46-52
The most important man in history, on his way to the most important city in history, to accomplish the most important event in history…yet, “He stops” for this one (Lk 15:1-10). Who do I need to “stop” for? Is there a readiness in my heart to be interruptible?