Stand up for Jesus

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​Have you considered the fact that sometimes, when we think we are standing up for Jesus we are actually standing in his way? Certain of the disciples experienced this unsettling phenomenon. For instance, Peter tried to stand in the way of Jesus going to the cross. Jesus replied with the stinging rebuke in (Matthew 17:21-23 ESV). Or recall how James and John dealt with a town's rejection of Jesus. "Shall we command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" they asked the Lord. Read what happened in (Luke 9:51-56 ESV).

In both these instances, the disciples appear to have taken undue pride and privilege in the special relationship they shared with Jesus. Yet how soon the mighty are fallen when Christ utters his rebukes! In view of this, we must be vigilant not to let our position in Christ make us prideful or hurtful toward others who do not agree with what we have to say.

The key is always humility. Not false humility that takes pride in itself, but a true humbleness of mind towards God and man, exhibited first and foremost, by a carefulness of tongue. King Solomon understood this principle when he wrote, "Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thy heart be hasty to utter anything before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few," (Ecclesiastes 5:2 KJV).

Lord Jesus, grant us the wisdom to discern your will in all we do; the power to control our tongues in all we say; and the liberty to be free from ourselves, so that you can be All in all in us.

​Toni Babcock
Minnesota, USA - faithwriters.com; info@grace-lines.net