A Sign From Heaven

The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven.

He replied, “When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.” Jesus then left them and went away.

Matthew 16:1-4

The religious leaders of Jesus’s day demanded a sign from Him to prove the validity of His claims. They weren’t seeking God’s guidance: They were challenging His divine authority. Jesus replied, “A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign.” The Lord’s strong response wasn’t a blanket statement to prevent anyone from seeking God’s guidance. Rather, Jesus was accusing them of ignoring the clear prophesies in Scripture that indicated He was the Messiah.

God wants us to seek His guidance in prayer. He also gives us the guidance of the Spirit and His Word. He provides us with mentors and wise leaders. And He’s given us the example of Jesus Himself.

It’s wise to ask God for clear direction, but He may not always give it in ways that we expect or want. Perhaps the larger point of prayer is that we learn more about God’s nature and develop a relationship with our Father.

The best way to know God’s will is to say, “I will” to God.

Our Daily Bread – November 9, 2016