Most of us have someone relatively close to us who has had a significant positive influence on us in life. For some of you, there may be more than one person. When these people come to mind their name is associated with good thoughts. I would guess that your name is on someone's list, as well.
Sunday, we looked at Matthew 11:1-19 where John (the Baptist) is in prison and has some of his own disciples to see Jesus. Within in that text, Jesus seems to give recognition to John for his faith. John's faith is a great example for us to model after. As we think about this, here are some applications to choose from to use this week...
- Ask Questions ~ Some view the thought of "God" as a "no questions asked" kind of mindset when it comes to their faith in God. Similarly, He is someone who is unapproachable. It is interesting to simply do a search in the Bible of the word "why" and see how many of them are questions toward God. In the book of Job there are questions like this. In Psalm 22 and 42 you see some questions directed toward God. As John's disciples asked if Jesus was "Jesus" then it is OK to ask God questions. I challenge Him myself from time to time.
- Commitment to Him ~ Jesus compliments John for his commitment to the Way, even while in prison. One of the least enjoyable places to be, prison, didn't cause John's faith to waver. Such a great example for us to remember to let our faith be strong even in the least enjoyable of times.
- Unswerving ~ Jesus asks a question pertaining to John, "Did they expect to find a reed swayed by the wind." John was a very consistent person when it came to his faith. He was not one who was swaying in the winds of life. Another reason to look up to John for his faith.
- Comfortable in His Own Skin ~ As John was a trailblazer for Jesus, he also seemed to be comfortable with himself, not caring about what others' thought. There is something to be said for that way of thinking. To exercise our faith with little inhibitions may bring about some great results. I am not talking about making a fool out of ourselves, making ourselves seem hypocritical, or that a relationship with God is all great with no "real." Own your faith and share it!
John the Baptist was a very unique guy and the Bible has portions of his life depicted to show his uniqueness. He was lifted up and recognized for his faith by his cousin, Jesus Christ. As Jesus seemed proud of His cousin, I think He is proud of us when we have a faith that is solid.
As you go through life, may the negative factors that come with your life be as less influential to weaken your faith as possible. Stay strong!
Now it's your turn...what has been a time in your life that either negatively affected your faith or had the potential to do so?
When I was studying art in college, I had to take a pottery class. It was a medium of art I had never had the privilege of working with. To say the least, it was difficult. I improved my skills throughout the semester, but did not come close to "having a handle" on this art form.
I remember being a bit frustrated when I would go to "paint" my pots and not know where colors were going to appear. Some colors will appear a different color as when they go through the kiln.
As life hands each one of us our fair share of challenges, we may forget what we can become through the challenges. Our lack of remembering is likely due to the fact we are uncomfortable going though the process and want leave the situation. This brings us to this week's quote...
A clay pot sitting in the sun will always be a clay pot. It has to go though the white heat of the furnace to become porcelain. ~ Mildred White Struven
There are a few things in life which we do not need to ever come out so hard that we are no longer flexible. However, this seems to not be the case in this quote.
Sometimes life can seem to be tough and cause us to experience some heat. That, however, is not the same as a furnace. The sun can appear pretty very hot, especially on summer months. Even with that heat, it does not compare to the furnace heat.
Furnace heat is extremely hot. I cannot imagine how hot a furnace would get. Regardless, the heat that is found in the furnace is needed to help the clay journey to become porcelain.
Now it's your turn...What have you experienced that has been the heat of your "furnace" which has helped you get through life issues?
