Matthew 26:57-68; Psalm 138

Matthew 26:57-68
As Jesus is being led to trial before the high priest, Caiaphas, Peter is following from a distance after he had boasted that no matter what anyone else did, he would not deny the Lord. Caiaphas (and others he had gathered) tried to find false witnesses who would testify against Jesus. This clearly breaks the Jewish law as even one of the 10 commandments says they must not lie! They finally found 2 witnesses to reported that Jesus has said "I am able to destroy the Temple of God and rebuild it in three days." We know that Jesus meant the Temple of His own body, but these wicked men were not interested in the truth. Speaking against the Temple was considered a serious offense to the Jews. However, speaking blasphemy by claiming to be God was an even greater offense. Jesus claimed in plain language to be the Messiah the Son of God. He also referenced prophecy of the future that He would return to heaven and then return once again to earth "on the clouds of heaven." Caiaphas was a Sadducee. Sadducees did not believe in the Resurrection and other truths from God's Word. And so Caiaphas was further infuriated and passed the death sentence on Jesus. The cruel treatment of Jesus after the sentence was proclaimed was both inhumane and illegal, but we see that Jesus did not complain or otherwise protest. This fulfills Old Testament prophecies such as Isaiah 50:6, "I offered my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. I did not hide my face from mockery and spitting."

Psalm 138
This psalm is very rich in comforting truths and encouragements.

• It begins with thanksgiving which is always a good place to start! When we are a thankful person, we are not likely to have a bad attitude, and we will be content with our circumstances. v. 1
• We are encouraged to sing praises to God. vv. 1, 5
• We are to worship and praise the Lord for His unfailing love and faithfulness. v. 2
• We are to remember that God's promises are "backed by all the honor of (His) name. v. 2
• We are to pray and know that God answers and gives us strength. v. 3
• Though God is great, He cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud. v. 6
• God promises to protect us. v. 7
• "The Lord will work out his plans for my life--for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever." v. 8  As we make our plans for now and for the future, we must remember to consult God. After all, He alone knows what's best for us.