When Certainty Falters
BRD REFLECTION 2026
Matthew 11:1-10 and Psalm 48:9-14 (NIV)
(Chuck Chan, Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Matthew 11:1-10 and Psalm 48:10b, 14b (NIV)
OBSERVE:
John the Baptist was imprisoned for publicly confronting King Herod Antipas over his unlawful marriage to Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip (Mt 14:3,4; Mk 6:17,18). This marriage, which stood in clear violation of Lev 18:16, provoked Herodias’s hostility and led to John’s suffering and isolation.
Approaching the end of his life, John found himself wrestling with uncertainty, questioning whether Jesus was indeed the Christ. Throughout his life, John had understood his identity as a forerunner and a herald to prepare the way for the Messiah (Is 40:3; Jn 1:23), whom he testified to be the Lord Jesus (Jn 1:29-34). Yet in his suffering, certainty gave way to questioning. Jesus did not rebuke John. Instead, He pointed to the miracles He had performed — and in doing so, affirmed His Messiahship and John’s ministry and calling.
APPLY:
As someone whose career has spanned more than three decades, I recently had to step aside and make way for a younger colleague to take on the role I held until the end of last year. Although I knew this transition was approaching, I struggled with disappointment and quietly questioned my capabilities, purpose, and sense of self-worth.
In moments when I feel overlooked, God gently invites me into deeper communion with Him. I am reminded that even the most faithful servants of God may wrestle with uncertainty, and yet find themselves met with reassurance rather than condemnation. As the psalmist assures me, God’s right hand is filled with righteousness, and He will guide me faithfully to the end (Ps 48:10b, 14b).
As I reflect on today’s readings, I was reminded, through the song “My Worth Is Not in What I Own” by Keith and Kristyn Getty, that my value is not anchored in titles, roles, or achievements, but in Christ alone:
“My worth is not in skill or name, in win or lose, in pride or shame; but in the blood of Christ that flowed at the cross.”
DO:
Today, I choose to entrust my remaining years to God, trusting His guidance and resting in His faithful companionship.
PRAY:
You have given all to me
To You, Lord, I return it.
Everything is Yours
Do with it what You will
Give me only Your love and Your grace
That is enough for me. Amen.
– Taken from ‘Pray As You Go’ –
