RENEW REFRESH REFOCUS
CASNFCI SCRIPTURE
& PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Later they sent some of the Pharisees and
Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words. … — MARK
12:13-17.
Words are
powerful. They can heal, encourage, and build—but they can also deceive, trap,
and destroy. In Mark 12:13–17, religious leaders came to Jesus, not to learn,
but to trap Him with flattery and questions. Their words were smooth, but their
hearts were full of deceit. They asked, “Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar?” It sounded
sincere, but Jesus saw through the trap. Instead of avoiding them or reacting
in anger, He responded with calm wisdom: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and
to God what is God’s.” Jesus teaches us something critical here—words can carry hidden
plots, and not every question deserves a direct answer. Sometimes, wisdom means
discerning intent, not just responding to content.
In our world today, words are still used to manipulate, control,
and confuse. Social media, conversations, even spiritual talk can be twisted to
trap the unwary. As believers, we need discernment—to know when to speak, when
to confront, and when to walk away. Jesus also reminds us of ownership. What belongs to God must be
given to Him—our time, our worship, our hearts. Just as the coin bore Caesar’s
image, we bear God’s image. We are His. And we must treat one another with that
same reverence, because each person reflects their Creator.
So, when words come your way—be they praise or challenge—pause.
Ask for the Spirit’s wisdom. Not every “sweet word” is rooted in truth, and not
every confrontation requires a fight. Like Jesus, be bold, be wise, and stay
aligned with the will of God.
PRAYER
Tags
Gospel truth