PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 20:20-23
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“’Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?’ ‘We can,’ they answered.” (Matthew 20:22)
I recall my naive confidence when I first wanted to be a minister.
Youthful optimism, or ignorance… I never questioned that I could do it.
Like James and John, I could drink that cup, I could handle that challenge.
Thirty years later, and I’m still in ministry, but NOT still confident.
James and John were too wrapped in themselves; they needed to be humbled.
They needed to know that working for God in this world is not a ‘nice cup of tea’.
Even Jesus, who faithfully lived and served in God’s world, suffered for it.
I CANNOT drink this cup… that is, survive or succeed in this world… but WE CAN!
Alone we are doomed, but with His help we can persevere and overcome!
“Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Whatever assignment the Lord gives to us, we can succeed IF we do it with him.
Despite my naive self-confidence, the Lord has shown me where my true confidence lies.
He has used me, despite me, to share his cup of blessing with others!
PRAYER
Lord, I can now smile when I think of my naive self-confidence back then – as you did. But thank you for using me anyway, and teaching me the meaning of God-confidence.
Love the new word “God-confidence”! Thanks!
Having had the privilege and the responsibility to serve in various capacity in Christian service – but then it would wrongly position ‘missionary or pastor’ service above all service in life. For believers everything should be ‘Christian’ service. Whether it is very challenging – and it is because Satan and his minions will make it that weary – or a joy – it is only possible when I’m connected to Jesus. Through him I have done so many things I would not have thought I could – but with him – I was blessed in so many many ways – and still am today. Can I drink the cup Jesus drank – absolutely not – only he could! But I can take up the tasks and calling that He challenges me – but leaning on him – his Spirit within – its the only way I can!
Parent’s dreams for their children? It is not theirs to decide.
And the sons, did they know what she was asking for them?
All too often we rely upon our own abilities, I can do it.
Other times my thoughts are that I can not do it because I do not have the gifts or power – lacking self confidence.
We are all His servants to be used for His glory. In all things He deserves the glory. I need to be an instrument for His peace, for His glory. And I need to rely on His power as I live each day for Him. His will be done.
I am weak, and I need Thy strength and power
To help me over my weakest hour;
Let me through the darkness Thy face to see,
Lead me, O Lord, lead me.
Refrain:
Lead me, guide me along the way;
For if You lead me, I cannot stray;
Lord, let me walk each day with Thee.
Lead me, O Lord, lead me.