What Jesus Did! 'Victory' — Matthew 8:16-17

Sunday, April 6, 2025

That evening [after healing Peter's mother-in-law,] many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and he healed all the sick. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said,

"He took our sicknesses
and removed our diseases."

— Matthew 8:16-17 NLT

Key Thought

Matthew continues to show us Jesus' power over what destroys our lives. Interestingly, it is Jesus' touch and word that are so powerful in these stories. His touch seems to be more of a demonstration of God's love, while his word is a demonstration of his authority and power. Matthew reminds us, however, that Jesus' authority and power are not for his personal gain, but for the blessing of those in need. He is God's promised servant! His authority is demonstrated in his service to us. Thus, as we seek to be like Jesus, we need to be servants as he was (John 13:12-17).

Today's Prayer

Mighty and majestic God, I am touched by Jesus' humble use of his power to bless others. Please keep my heart humble and pure so that I may be used by you to bless others. Help me be more a "burden-lifter" and a "blessing-giver." In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 8:16-17 NLT — "He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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