THE STORY OF JESUS: Mark 13:9-13
“And the gospel must first be preached to all nations.” (Mark 13:10)
Apparently Jesus needs us for a job: to let people know the good news.
Jesus’ followers (not just ministers) are sent to share the kingdom message.
The Lord uses our presence in this dark world to spread the word.
Our job is not to convert or convince, our job is to witness.
He will speak through us, His Spirit will do the converting and convincing.
“It is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 13:11)
Think about the people you speak with today, no matter who they are.
Consider how Jesus’ message of love, joy and peace could help them.
Grace, mercy, forgiveness, hope, comfort, strength… who DOESN’T need this.
Our world is screwed up big time, but Jesus has beaten the devil.
There is strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow!
Allow the Spirit to bring strength and hope through your words and actions.
Offer words and acts of kindness energized by the Spirit, and see what happens!
Persevere, even if it gets hard: Jesus guarantees His Spirit will work through us!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see the kingdom impact of words and deeds of love and mercy. Your Spirit will take the message to all people, if I surrender my hands and mouth to You!
The part of the passage that ‘hit’ me was
‘do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.’
All to often I forget that God is with me and He will enable me. I am not alone. Just do and speak the words Christ has given me to speak.
The word martyr in Greek means witness. That I must be – a living witness for Jesus Christ each day anew.
He provides.
He enables.
He strengthens
so I have the courage to speak the Gospel.
A mighty Fortress is our God,
A Bulwark never failing;
Our Helper He amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe
Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great,
And, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
2
Did we in our own strength confide,
Our striving would be losing;
Were not the right Man on our side,
The Man of God’s own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth His Name,
From age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.