Mark Chapter 10

Mark 10 is filled with moments that reveal the tension between what we want and what God desires for us. Over and over, people come to Jesus with their expectations, but He responds in ways that challenge them—and us—to surrender to something greater.

First, the Pharisees test Jesus about divorce, hoping to trap Him. They are focused on legal loopholes, but Jesus redirects them to God’s original design for marriage—one of unity, commitment, and faithfulness. While they want permission, Jesus calls them to God’s higher purpose.

Then, people bring little children to Jesus, but the disciples try to send them away. In their minds, children are unimportant, a distraction from more serious matters. But Jesus rebukes them, saying, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark 10:14). While the disciples value status and influence, Jesus values childlike faith and dependence.

Next comes the rich young man, eager to inherit eternal life. He has followed all the rules, lived a moral life, and believes he is close to the kingdom. But when Jesus tells him to sell everything, give to the poor, and follow Him, the man walks away sad. He wanted eternal life on his own terms, but Jesus called him to surrender. His wealth, though a blessing, had become his greatest obstacle.

Again and again, Mark 10 confronts us with the difference between our desires and God’s will. We want control, but God calls us to trust. We seek power, but Jesus says the greatest must be a servant. We chase security and comfort, but He invites us to let go and follow Him fully.

The chapter closes with blind Bartimaeus crying out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mark 10:47). Unlike the rich man, Bartimaeus knows he has nothing to offer—no status, no wealth, no achievements. All he has is desperate faith. And when Jesus heals him, Bartimaeus follows immediately.

So where do you find yourself in this chapter? Are you clinging to comfort like the rich man? Seeking status like the disciples? Or are you coming to Jesus with empty hands like Bartimaeus?

God’s will often challenges our desires, but it always leads to something better—true life, real joy, and the kind of kingdom greatness that lasts forever. The question is, will we trust Him enough to let go?