Food for ThoughtsSample

What Does Jesus Want Us to Know About Self?

(Focus Verses: Luke 7:44-46)

1) Having Problems Doesn’t Make You a Problem

Jesus never denied Simon’s accusations that the woman was a sinner. We don’t know her whole story, but the fact that she was human means she had certainly sinned and made mistakes. Interestingly, Jesus was far more focused on her worship than her shortcomings. Just because you have made mistakes doesn’t mean you are a mistake. When we truly understand the grace of Jesus, it will empower us to live in a way that glorifies Him (Rom. 1:5)!

2) Learning Is a Lifelong Choice

Jesus turned an unexpected interruption into an opportunity to teach Simon. As Christians, it can be easy to limit our learning to Sunday sermons and church camps. However, if we let Him, God can teach us about His character and our calling through simple, everyday interactions.

3) Maturity Is Measured by Humility

The primary accusation that Jesus brought against Simon is that the woman, not he, washed His feet, kissed Him, and anointed Him with oil. Each of these acts requires the recognition that you’re not the most important person in the room. If you want to measure how you’re doing in your relationship with Jesus, measure your willingness to serve others!

Big Idea

God is far more concerned with the posture of your heart than the problems you’re currently dealing with. Humility comes through acknowledging your imperfections and understanding that God can teach you through others.

Let's Think About This

Question #1: What is one thing that “jumped out” to you while reading Luke 7:44-46?

Question #2: Which of the three things Jesus wants us to know about “self” (1. Having Problems Doesn’t Make You a Problem; 2. Learning Is a Lifelong Choice; 3. Maturity Is Measured by Humility) resonated the most with you?

Question #3: Describe a time when God spoke to you through a random or seemingly ordinary moment?