THE GREATEST NEED
Luke 5:17–26
One of the greatest — yet least discussed — sins a person may succumb to is discontentment. The idea that the grass is greener elsewhere can rob you of the joy you possess in Christ. What can begin with comparing your life to others can end with resentment, anger and even hate. At the center of discontentment is a lack of trust in God to provide for your needs.
The enemy will always appeal to your greed, while the heavenly Father will always supply your needs. The trouble is that in our society, we have our priorities out of focus and dwell on our materialistic wants more than on our spiritual needs. A newer car, a bigger home, a better wardrobe or more electronic gadgets can only satisfy for a season, and then the most pressing needs remain.
I am learning the discipline of focusing on needs rather than wants. If something does not bring me closer to Christ or help me in my family or as a pastor, I may need to see how I can live without it. One eternal need for each of us is to have a saving relationship with Jesus. Nothing is comparable to having your sins forgiven and your future after death secured.
Jesus has the power to meet our physical needs. (17–19)
Miracles marked the beginning of the ministry of Jesus. His following grew rapidly from town to town as the people came, bringing the sick and hurting with them.
Jesus still has the power to heal today, although many use miracles as part of a false teaching platform and theatrics designed to bring attention to the speaker rather than the Savior. We read of a collection of people getting their friend to Jesus. Real friends want what is best for you. They are not in competition with you. Who we surround ourselves with indicates a lot about who we are as people and what we value.
Jesus takes care of our greatest need — the need for forgiveness. (20–21)
You may go through your entire life and never experience a physical miracle. But, if you have been forgiven of your sins and received Christ as your Savior, you have been blessed with the greatest miracle of all — salvation. Even healed bodies will wear out one day. The forgiven and redeemed soul will never expire.
Only Jesus can save and provide healing for our bodies and sinful conditions. Jesus is merciful to all who believe, and He will honor genuine faith. Your greatest need is not more stuff; it is salvation. Christ has the authority to give you the salvation you need.
Jesus’ authority to meet our greatest need verifies His divinity. (22–26)
It is sad that when Jesus demonstrates His power and grace in the lives of people, others are seen complaining or doubting Him.
The only people who walk away from Jesus disappointed are those filled with themselves and with pride. A relationship with Jesus requires humility and submission to Him. Repeatedly in the Scriptures, Jesus proves and displays His divinity. Some chose to believe and others resisted.
The same is true today. Many would rather search in vain for fulfillment when the whole time, Christ is available to meet their most significant and most lasting need. How has Jesus met your needs in supernatural ways?
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
