Disciples Follow Jesus' Path Rather Than Their Own (or the world's) Way
“The quiet place wasn't a one- time thing. It was an ongoing part of [Jesus’] life rhythm.”
~ J.M. Comer, p. 126 The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
Recently this text box came across my social media feed:
Jesus' Way versus the World's Way
World: "Follow your heart."
Jesus: "Follow me."
World: "Believe in yourself."
Jesus: "Believe in me."
World: "Discover yourself."
Jesus: "Deny yourself."
World: "Be true to you."
Jesus: "Be true to me."
What a contrast between the voice of the world and that of Jesus. It parallels our theme for the week: Following Jesus’ path rather than our own.
John 3:21
Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.
Pondering Point
Time spent with God is time in the light – and is often revealing. But we don't always want to face our faults. It is not unusual for people to avoid God-related conversations and gatherings in order to avoid such unmasking.
But as we come and go in life as followers of Jesus, we want to live by the truth. We want our activities to be “above-board,” not mixed with deceit.
We already know (don’t we?) that God is watching? Since this is the case and we live for Him (right?), our goal is to make choices that meet with His approval. We already have His approval through Jesus (this is called justification); let’s follow that truth up with lifestyles that reflect our relationship with Him (known as sanctification). Let's live in the light as He is in the light.
Besides, in spending time with God, He prepares us for all the stress we will be experiencing. It’s a way of letting Him help us bear the burden of life.
Prayer
Father God, thank you for the truth that I can be confident of my forgiveness of sins and holiness through Jesus Christ. Help me live my life openly, to be seen plainly by You and others, in a way that glorifies You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
In Luke's gospel in particular you can chart Jesus’ life along to axis points: the busier and more in demand and famous Jesus became, and the more he withdrew to his quiet place to pray. Usually for us it's the exact opposite. When we get overbusy and life is hectic and people are vying for our time, the quiet place is the first thing to go rather than our first go to.
J.M. Comer, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, p. 130