March 2, 2014 (Numbers 30-31; Mark 9)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “John said to Jesus. “Teacher, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he wasn’t in our group.” Mark 9:38 NLT
Observation: “Don’t stop him!” Jesus said. “No one who performs a miracle in my name will soon be able to speak evil of me. Anyone who is not against us is for us.” However, Jesus was not saying that being indifferent or neutral toward him is as good as being committed. As He explained in Matthew 12:30, “Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.” In both cases, Jesus was pointing out that neutrality toward him is not possible. His followers must be sold out and of one mind, because a double minded man is unstable in all his ways. Jesus lifts us up out of the miry pit and sets our feet on solid ground. In Fact, a solid foundation that is to be built upon with great care and concern. Once born again we are in His group, it’s called the family of God, and there is no division among us.
Application: Many people today would love to stop those that are not in their group from using the name of Jesus. People are very protecting of their denominations and doctrines. And if you challenge them to dig deeper into God’s word and explore their personal beliefs you will most likely be shut off from them. Recently I was told of a Pastor that stated from the Pulpit at a Sunday morning worship service “if you don’t believe just like we do why are you here?” Sounds like an unbelievable statement coming from a Pastor that claims to be “filled” with the Holy Ghost. But this is an excellent present day example of how even the very elect can be deceived by satan and crippled by tradition. As disciples we must learn to major on the majors, and minor on the minors. God is not the author of confusion, nor is he the author of jealously, bitterness, anger, or hate. He is a God of love and great patience.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your love and patience You have with this world. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for replacing, and multiplying, everything the enemy tried to steal. Open up the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing on me that overflows. Provide for me that I may have to give to others, in Jesus name, Amen!