Day 151/260: Read Matthew 26

How unshakeable is your faith? The apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

When Jesus walked the earth, He chose twelve men to be His closest allies. For three years, they followed Him day and night, listened to His teachings, and were privy to more in-depth doctrine than the common man.

Near the end of His earthly ministry, He told the twelve, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.” Matthew’s account of this devastating announcement is interesting. Matthew writes, “And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and each of them began to say to Him, ‘Lord, is it I?’”

Each was genuinely concerned that he would be the one to turn his back on the Master. Many times, we like to think our faith is invincible, but here were these men, the closest friends of Jesus, worried about their personal faith.

Much research has been done about apostasy. One 2017 poll of adults aged 23-30 showed that among teenagers who regularly attended church services, 34% stopped the habit between the ages of 18-22. Think of the young people where you attend now. Which 34% are you willing to lose?

Be an encouragement to those who are younger. Show them the benefits of faithfulness to the Savior. Teach them to be steadfast and unmovable in the Lord’s work.

Memory (Read aloud 5-10 times)

Matthew 26:28. “For this is the blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”

Pray

Pray for young Christians who are still finding their faith.