Matthew Chapter 19

Have you ever found yourself asking questions you already know the answer to? In Matthew 19, we see people asking Jesus familiar questions—questions that reveal more about their hearts than they might realize.

First, the Pharisees ask Jesus about divorce, not because they want to learn, but because they want to test Him (v. 3). They’re not looking for truth; they’re looking for a way to justify their actions. How often do we approach God this way? Maybe we don’t test Him outright, but we ask questions hoping for answers that align with what we already want.

Then we meet a rich young man who asks Jesus, “What good thing must I do to get eternal life?” (v. 16). He’s looking for a checklist—something to accomplish on his terms. When Jesus tells him to sell his possessions and follow Him, the man walks away sad because he’s unwilling to let go of his wealth.

Here’s the thing: this man wasn’t being asked to do the impossible. Jesus wasn’t setting up a trap. Instead, He was inviting the young man to experience something miraculous—freedom from what was holding him back. But the man’s attachment to his possessions made him his own worst enemy.

Have you ever felt like that rich young man? You want to follow Jesus, but there’s something you’re holding onto—fear, comfort, success, or even good things like relationships or security. You feel stuck, not because God is unwilling to move in your life, but because you’re unwilling to surrender control.

Finally, Jesus says something remarkable: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (v. 26). It’s a reminder that the miraculous isn’t something we achieve—it’s something God does when we step out in faith and trust Him.

Matthew 19 challenges us to ask ourselves: Am I my own worst enemy? What’s holding me back from fully trusting Jesus? Maybe it’s fear of the unknown or the weight of past mistakes. Maybe it’s the comfort of familiar routines or the lure of material things. Whatever it is, Jesus is inviting you to let it go—not because He wants to take something away, but because He wants to give you something better.

1. What are the areas in your life where you’re asking questions but resisting the answers God is giving you?
2. What’s holding you back from experiencing the freedom and miracles God has for you?
3. How can you trust God with the “impossible” situations in your life?

Lord, I confess that I often hold onto things that keep me from fully trusting You. Help me to see where I’m my own worst enemy. Give me the courage to surrender what’s holding me back and to believe that with You, all things are possible. Teach me to walk in faith, trusting Your plans for my life. Amen.

What stands out to you from Matthew 19? Have you ever struggled to let go of something God was calling you to surrender? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to encourage one another!