“‘Teacher, we know that you speak and teach rightly…but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar or not?” But he perceived their craftiness and said to them…”
Luke 20:21
These people were roused up by the Pharisees to somehow thwart Jesus’ ministry and to catch him in his words so that he might be condemned. But of course, Jesus was blameless and sinless, and (again) answered them wisely.
Yet what drew my attention was these verse which gave insight into Jesus’ perception of their craftiness.
He knew the plans and intentions his enemies had against him. He saw the whole thing in foresight- why they were doing what they were doing, how they were doing what they were doing, and what they were trying to accomplish. Yet because of tgus perception of their craftiness, he was able to continue in righteousness and blamelessness.
In my heart then, I desired what Jesus had- the ability to perceive the enemy’s activity.
If you haven’t realized by now, we have enemies in the Christian life. After all, the whole world is “under the control of the evil one (1 John 5:19)” and the “devil prowls around like a lion waiting for someone to devour (1 Peter 5)”. It’s no surprise then why I feel the pressure of the enemy around me from living a godly life.
I only now desire that I would perception of these things so that I can, like Jesus, maintain blamelessness. To perceive with spiritual eyes and spiritual wisdom what the enemy is doing around me and in the lives of others.
Lord, open my eyes that I might see!
