What Jesus Did! 'Transition and Truth' — Matthew 19:1-2

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

When Jesus had finished saying these things [about the need to be forgiving], he left Galilee and went down to the region of Judea east of the Jordan River. Large crowds followed him there, and he healed their sick.
— Matthew 19:1-2 NLT

Key Thought

In transitional verses, we often find key elements of truth that Matthew most wants us to see. Jesus has brought to a close his Galilean ministry. He is headed for Jerusalem. The crowds are still infatuated with him. He will consistently heal them and minister to their needs even as he is headed toward the cross. His ministry as Immanuel, God with us, does not end simply because he is moving into the last stage of his earthly ministry. For all of us, transitions can be difficult. The key is to remain true to our calling from God just as Jesus did. Even when stress and pressures skyrocket, we need to remain who we are and not compromise the character that God has brought to life in us.

Today's Prayer

Changeless and infinite God, please lead me through my transitions so that I can use each one as an opportunity to become more like Jesus rather than deal with them a crisis in my life. In his precious and mighty name, I pray. Amen.

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 19:1-2 NLT — Large crowds followed him there, and he healed their sick.

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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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