It doesn’t take much.
“The people were amazed and said, “This man has never studied in school. How did he learn so much?” John 7:15
“The people answered, “A demon has come into you.” – John 7:20
It doesn’t take much, does it?
Within only 5 verses, Jesus goes from ‘amazing’ people to being ‘demon possessed’.
So, how much merit do you place in the words of those who smile one moment and then, well, you know, outright reject you the next?
“This man has never studied in school. How did he learn so much?”
“Command and teach these things.
Do not let anyone treat you as if you are unimportant because you are young.
Instead, be an example to the believers with your words, your actions, your love, your faith, and your pure life.
Until I come, continue to read the Scriptures to the people, strengthen them, and teach them.
Use the gift you have, which was given to you through prophecy when the group of elders laid their hands on you.
Continue to do those things; give your life to doing them so your progress may be seen by everyone.
Be careful in your life and in your teaching. If you continue to live and teach rightly, you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.” – 1 Timothy 4:11-16
Be an example to the believers in…
- Your words,
- Your actions,
- Your love,
- Your faith, and
- Your pure life.
- Be careful…
- … you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.
“And our brothers and sisters defeated him by the blood of the Lamb’s death and by the message they preached. (Their testimony)
They did not love their lives so much that they were afraid of death.” – Revelation 12:11
Some things bear repeating.
Be sure you are pursuing a relationship with God, first, and THEN with people.
Human hearts are only a pendulum swing from loving you and hating you.
God remains faithful and steady.
Having God fill your heart allows those around you to ride their emotional rollercoasters while you remain on the straight and narrow.
No God. No peace.
Know God. Know peace.
