After the 72 returned rejoicing from their witnessing assignment, Jesus was filled with joy from the Spirit. Two thoughts: 1) You’ve never known true joy until you’ve felt this joy of the Holy Spirit. 2) If you want to share this joy with Jesus, answer the call to be a witness for Him.
Jesus sent 36 teams of two out to prepare all the little towns in Israel for a visit from the Messiah. He told them what to take, where to stay, and what to say. Jesus is still sending out disciples. Have you heard your call yet?
Do you depend on your own strength? No matter how many vitamins or supplements you take, your health will wane. But God’s strength is available to you forever. Draw on Him. Depend on Him. God never fails.
Are you ashamed to witness? It isn’t considered polite to talk about Jesus and the Gospel. In a day when “R” rated language is everywhere, saying “Jesus” is only acceptable as a curse word. It’s “intolerant” to speak of Him otherwise. I wonder, will Jesus be ashamed of you on that Day?
Many in the crowds pressed in to touch Jesus, but He noticed the woman who touched Him in faith. Jesus still takes notice of those who reach out to Him believing. Why not reach out to Him now?
Jesus told the man he had cleansed of demon possession to go home and bear witness to his family. He told his disciples the same: Be my witnesses in Jerusalem… Following Jesus, our first assignment is to witness at home.
God taught the Israelites how to treat foreigners by reminding them that they were once foreigners too. This principle should inform how we treat immigrants to America. It should also inform how Christians should love those who are “foreign” (far away) from God.
In our trouble, we cry out for relief and God blesses. In our blessing, we are tempted to sin and stop praying. How fickle we are. But God loves us enough to discipline us in the wilderness, so that we can be faithful in the promised land. Lord, move us from fickleness to faithfulness.
Where is death threatening today? In your marriage or other close relationship? Perhaps in your body as you’re getting older or the doctor has given a scary diagnosis? There are little “deaths” that we die along the road to dying. But our God saves. This salvation will overcome all death.
Your responsibility to remember what God has done isn’t finished until your grandchildren know. Teach them. It’s a job you can’t delegate.