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Jesus’ teachings in this section are exceptionally rigorous. Many Christians have wondered whether it would be possible for anyone to fulfill them completely. If you feel despair at your inability to measure up, remember that Jesus teaches not only that God calls us to a high standard of living but also forgives us when we fall short.

Jesus tells us that “a tree is recognized by its fruit” (v. 33). Consider your actions, the fruit of your life. Where have you fallen into sin? What does that suggest about the evils that might be stored within you? Pray that Jesus, the great lover of our souls, would heal you and commit to working with the grace He offers to become more holy.

Citizenship in the kingdom of heaven is the greatest treasure we can possess. But it is something that we can possess only if we are willing to invest our all in it, even if it means giving up things we regard as having great value. What are the things that you most value? How might you invest them in the kingdom of heaven?

Jesus’ disciples needed both the determination to ascend to the mountaintop, where they encountered God, and the willingness to return to the world to love and serve others. Are you incorporating both in your life? Are you determined in seeking God? And do you love and serve others to witness about God’s kingdom in the world?

Many parts of our lives depend on the service of people we routinely overlook. In the days ahead, try to be more aware of such persons. Give God thanks for their service. As you do so, try also to look for ways in which you might serve them and others, such as by praying for them, lending a hand, or offering an encouraging word.

If you’ve never trusted in Jesus as your Savior from the power and penalty of sin and death, there is no better time than today. None of our good works, no matter how much they impress other people, will secure our salvation. Our only hope is to offer our lives to Christ and believe that He can and will redeem us. Accept His gift of love and...

A Taste for Worldliness The word worldly is often used today to describe a person who is sophisticated or refined in their tastes. But the biblical meaning of this word is something quite different. Worldly in Scripture is synonymous with “ungodly.” Hebrews 12:16 characterizes Jacob’s brother, Esau, as a worldly or profane person because...

Invitation to a Feast When Prince Harry married Meghan Markle last May, the wedding celebration included a formal dinner reception for 200 guests, a luncheon hosted by the queen for the 600 guests at the wedding, and light refreshments for over 2,000 members of the public who were invited to Windsor Castle to witness the presentation of the...

Fed by God Inspired by Jesus’ 40-day sojourn in the wilderness, Robert Bogucki ventured into Australia’s Great Sandy Desert—and disappeared. A manhunt was launched after tourists spotted his abandoned bicycle and supplies, but after 15 days of searching they concluded that he had not survived. Bogucki’s family hired trackers to continue the...

Blessed Hunger Although the world produces enough food to feed the entire population, 815 million people go hungry each year. Famine, poverty, and war are key factors that contribute to world hunger. According to research from the United Nations, hunger kills more people each year than aids, malaria, and tuberculosis combined. In view of...