Up to the Challenge?
I cannot run from this anymore. I have been given hint after hint, and today, I have finally been given the “The Challenge”. And, as I feel asleep (for the few hours I actually slept, THIS is what I kept thinking about… Matthew 28:18-20…
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
A little while ago, I had the opportunity to speak at a church, I wasn’t planning on speaking, it was sort of thrust, on me. And I desperately prayed for God to give me a “word” for the people I was about to face. And, as God usually does, He blessed me with not a word, but three.
When Jesus gave us His Great Commission, He gave us an OPPORTUNITY. He said “GO!” Not this guy or that other girl, but YOU and ME, WE are to GO. Jesus also gave us a RESPONSIBILITY. Jesus wants us to go into all the world, our neighborhoods and around the globe to win, teach, baptize, and DISCIPLE every person that allows us. And finally, Jesus guarantees some much needed ACCOUNTABILITY. Jesus will always be with us, as long as we are willing to let Him.
What I processed tonight, right before I fell off into ‘dream land,’ was, did God give me the ABILITY? Would I take the Challenge? What if I failed? What if I am wrong? What if I don’t succeed? What if, what if…….
I guess everyone who is in my life of calling goes through these questions and wrestles with “their call,” but God even provided answers.
Acts 5:39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
Matthew 19:26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Philippians 4:12-13 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Ephesians 3:19-21 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
So I wrestle with my Challenge. What is YOUR CHALLENGE? What is God challenging YOU with today? Are you scared? Are you worried? Are YOU up to the Challenge?
