Bible Reading: Genesis 11 | Matthew 11 | Psalm 11
Devotional for January 15, 2025
Reading: Genesis 11 | Matthew 11 | Psalm 11
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Genesis 11
Genesis 11 is the narrative account of the Tower of Babel. What is often overlooked is that this section of the Genesis narrative is significant because it highlights two primary themes that will continue until Christ returns. That theme is of the city of man and the city of God.
The city of man is demonstrated when man, in rebellion toward God, seeks to build a tower that will reach heaven. The absurdity of such behavior is noted, but what is more important is the heart attitude of mankind in laboring together to accomplish their goal. Their goal is simple: They want to make a name for themselves, and the tower is an edifice built to their honor and glory. The tower is a symbol of human autonomy. It symbolizes lives in direct opposition to God and submission to his will. That effort draws the attention of God, in which he comes to demonstrate his singular sovereign right to rule over the affairs of mankind. He confuses their languages and disperses them over the face of the earth. The other aspect of this narrative is found in the tower's name. Babel is a term that often refers to the city of Babylon. That city is in violent opposition to the city of God and his people (See. Rev. 17-18).
The city of man (Babylon) references human ambition with no regard for God. Another aspect of this narrative that is important to note is the builders' goal. They seek to make a name for themselves, but God is the one who desires to be honored. He establishes men. He exalts them. Thus, the genealogy at the end of the chapter focuses on Shem and his descendants. “Shem” comes from a Hebrew root that means “name.” In chapter twelve, we will see God call Abraham and promise to make him great, to give him a great name. That stands in direct opposition to men's labors without any reference to God.
Applications:
The city of man is a worldview that attempts to live without God. Though the unregenerate can't do that, they try. They are to be pitied. We should pray for the loss of our community.
The city of God is that worldview articulated in the Word of God, which Christians diligently seek to follow. Yet, as sinners, we need the abiding grace of the Holy Spirit to accomplish the things God has commanded us to do.
Greatness cannot be self-willed. Those pursuing the city of man seek greatness apart from God. The humble will be exalted. The arrogant, humbled.
Matthew 11
Matthew 11 has two main sections, and they are nicely linked to one another. The first section (11:1-24) sets forth the struggle of John the Baptist and his desire to be comforted. The chapter opens with John in prison. He is suffering for the sake of the gospel at the hand of Herod the King. He sends his disciples to Jesus to inquire whether he is the Christ. Jesus instructs the disciples to return to John and instruct him and comfort him with the answer. Jesus then takes the opportunity to teach the crowds about the ministry of John and his significant role as the forerunner of the Messiah. Sadly, many did not respond to the words of John, just as they did not respond to the words of Christ (11:20-24).
The final section (11:25-30) contains the only time Jesus speaks directly about himself. The connection between the previous narrative and the words of Christ in this section cannot be missed. Whenever we are uncertain, face difficult times, or begin to doubt, we must go to Christ, who will resolve our fears, give us hope and rest, and comfort our weary souls.
Applications:
Those who desire to live godly lives will be persecuted. Sometimes, that comes from those closest to us. It can come from relatives and friends. Trust the Lord in those times.
As Christians, we are pilgrims, and the affairs of this life can be very burdensome. Pray and plead for the relief that can only come from Christ.
Psalm 11
Psalm 11 is a psalm of David. It is another “refuge psalm,” as the opening words plainly state. The context is unclear, but it is probably written during one of those times when David was being pursued by his enemies.
11:1-3
This section of this psalm sets the stage for what follows. David declares, “In the Lord I take refuge.” Those words are a declaration. David is determined to follow the Lord and find his trust and hope in him even when things are hard and difficulty is all around him. He says this because some people question the Lord's loving kindness. They tell David to flee the presence of Jehovah (“Flee like a bird to [or from] your mountain.”). David is being tempted by others to abdicate his duty as a follower of Jehovah. It may not be people in our lives that tempt us to do that, but circumstances often speak with a million voices. They can cause us to think that following Christ is too much trouble. Those voices of difficulty can tempt us to leave the God we love.
David describes these naysayers. He says they speak with a sense of urgency. They tempt him to give us his God. Beneath their temptations is death. To follow these voices is to come to ruin. If they are right, what is left for man? There can be no hope. There can be no relief.
11:4-7
In this section, David consoles himself by turning his mind away from those circumstances that tempt him to despair and, instead, focusing his mind and heart on the God of his salvation. There are a few things to note in these verses. First, he declares the just and righteous rule of the Lord. He says that “he is in his holy temple.” From that throne of God on earth, he tests the hearts of men. Sometimes, he will lead us into temptation to test us. He did that with Abraham (Gen. 22) and the Savior (Matt. 4). Second, He reminds himself that these tempters who tell him it is a waste of time to trust the God of heaven will receive the consequences of their sin. These people are tools of the Evil One. We must listen carefully to the voices around us. They are sometimes subtle, seeking to lure us away from the God of righteousness. These voices can come from seemingly unsuspecting places. Be vigilant. Be discerning about what you watch and read. As we resist the temptation to toss in the towel, we will find the Lord sustaining us in those times of testing and bringing us to his comfortable presence. Therefore, persevere in the faith once delivered to the saints.
Applications:
Many circumstances in life will tempt us to give up. The Evil One works day and night to cause us to give up our love for God and the faith we currently love. During those times, take refuge in God, who loves the righteous and has promised to sustain you.
We must be careful what voices we hear throughout our day. There is a real enemy in this world. He hates you and cares nothing for your soul. Read Phil. 4:8 and meditate on those words.