How can we submit to God's will as shown in Matthew 20:23? Key verse: Matthew 20:23 “Jesus said to them, ‘You will indeed drink My cup, but to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them.’” Setting the scene • The mother of James and John has just asked Jesus to give her sons places of honor in His kingdom (vv. 20-21). • Jesus responds by pointing to “My cup”—the path of suffering and obedience He Himself will walk (vv. 22-23). • He underscores that final authority over positions, outcomes, and rewards rests with the Father. Submitting like Jesus: what the verse teaches • Acknowledge God’s ultimate authority. – “These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them.” – See also Daniel 4:35; Romans 11:36. • Accept the cup God chooses. – Jesus says, “You will indeed drink My cup.” – We do not design our own path; we receive it (Luke 22:42). • Release control of outcomes. – Even Jesus, equal with the Father, yields the decision about positions. – Trust that the Father assigns what is best (Jeremiah 29:11). Marks of practical submission • Trust over entitlement – Replace “I deserve” with “Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). • Obedience before understanding – Step out in faith first; insight often follows (Hebrews 11:8). • Patience with God’s timing – He prepares seats and seasons in advance (Ecclesiastes 3:1). • Humility in service – Jesus immediately teaches servant-leadership (Matthew 20:26-28). Steps to cultivate a submissive heart 1. Daily surrender – Begin each morning echoing Jesus’ words: “Not as I will, but as You will” (Matthew 26:39). 2. Engage Scripture – Let God’s Word renew your mind and align your desires (Romans 12:1-2). 3. Embrace God-ordained challenges – Trials refine and ready us for the “cup” (1 Peter 1:6-7). 4. Serve unnoticed – Hidden acts of love free us from craving recognition (Colossians 3:23-24). 5. Practice grateful worship – Gratitude shifts focus from position to the privilege of belonging to Him (Psalm 100:2-3). Encouragement from other passages • Proverbs 3:5-6 — Trust and He will direct. • James 4:6-10 — Humble yourselves; He will lift you up. • Philippians 2:5-11 — Christ’s humility leads to exaltation. Living it out together • Remind one another that God is writing every chapter. • Celebrate faithfulness, not status. • Point each other back to Christ’s example when ambition surfaces. As we yield to the Father’s preparation, we find the freedom, peace, and purpose that come only from drinking the cup He lovingly places in our hands. |
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