The Life and Ministry of Jesus
Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. Matthew 2:7–9
These verses show us a splendid example of spiritual diligence. What trouble it must have cost these wise men to travel from their homes to the house where Jesus was born! How many weary miles they must have journeyed!
The fatigues of an Eastern traveler are far greater than we can at all understand. The time that such a journey would occupy must have been very great. The dangers to be encountered were neither few nor small. But none of these things moved them. They had set their hearts on seeing him “who has been born king of the Jews” and they never rested till they saw him. 1
Personal Encouragement
It would be well for all professing Christians if they were more ready to follow the example of these good men. Where is your self-denial? What diligence do you show about following Christ? What does living for Christ actually cost you?
But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62
Where there is a yielded will, there is our God leading the way.
A Prayer
Lord, may Your wisdom be imparted to me often, so I may glorify You.
1. Ryle, J. C. (1993). Matthew. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
