Jesus regularly invites us on adventures, but we often hesitate for some pretty short-sighted reasons. Is it just me? Or do some of these sound familiar?
“I’m not adequate.” None of us are up for what God calls us to. He seems to choose us for our weaknesses more than for our strengths.
On the flip side of this, you might be very surprised at how much is on your spiritual resume. Do you know Christ? Have you read and studied the Bible at all? Heard any sermons? Boom. You already have something to offer someone else.
“I need to be healed first.” Jesus is happy to heal you from unresolved emotional issues — but it’s impossible to please him without faith (Hebrews 11:6). Healing happens as we obey.
“It’s too late.” Abraham and his barren wife Sarah finally got their promised son long after they were too old to conceive children (Gen 21:2). If God asks you to believe for something, it doesn’t matter how much time has passed. What matters is that you trust God himself to fulfill the dreams he gave you. Don’t call God’s promises sour grapes.
“It costs too much.” It’s wise to count the cost — Jesus said if you’re going to build a tower, you should estimate the building materials first. But he also said that if you try to rescue your life, you’ll lose it. He asks rhetorically, “What can a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 8:36)
Think big picture. Think forever.
“I’ll do it, but first let me…” Jesus tells of several individuals who were interested in following him, but had responsible-sounding reasons for procrastinating. Jesus’ response in Luke 9:62? “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” As I told my kids when they were young, slow obedience is no obedience.
The only appropriate response when Jesus picks us for an assignment is Yes, Lord.
Do it weak. Do it despite the cost. Do it in faith.
And do it now.
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