2026 Pentecost Devotions II
Friday, August 21
Matthew 16:5-12
5 When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. 6 Jesus said to them, “Watch out, and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 7 They said to one another, “It is because we have brought no bread.” 8 And becoming aware of it, Jesus said, “You of little faith, why are you talking about having no bread? 9 Do you still not perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand and how many baskets you gathered? 10 Or the seven loaves for the four thousand and how many baskets you gathered? 11 How could you fail to perceive that I was not speaking about bread? Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees!” 12 Then they understood that he had not told them to beware of the yeast of bread but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
“… “Watch out, and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” …”
O be careful little eyes what you see,
O be careful little eyes what you see;
For the Father up above is looking down in love.
So be careful little eyes what you see.
Most of us learned this little ditty in Sunday School. It was a favorite because it involved motions. Pointing at our eyes – or covering them entirely – reminded us that what we look at can influence and possibly damage our relationship with God and others.
Be careful little ears what you hear,
Be careful little ears what you hear;
For the Father up above is looking down in love,
So be careful little ears what you hear.
The disciples in the boat initially missed Jesus’ point about the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Soon they recognized that Jesus was advising them to listen to their teachings with discerning ears.
Be careful little tongue what you say,
Be careful little tongue what you say;
For the Father up above is looking down in love,
So be careful little tongue what you say.
Could it be that what we hear and/or what we see effects what we say? Beyond simply ourselves, when what we see and hear influences us in ways contrary to the Gospel, it often gets projected out to others who may not be so discerning.. Beware, Jesus says. Beware of what you see and what you hear because it not only affects you but those whom you encounter along the way.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for walking with us as we journey through life. Help me to discern what is of You and what is not so that I may truly give witness to You through my words and actions. Amen.