The title for this blog came to me last night from the Holy Spirit along with the word recalcitrant which means having an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline. In the context of this narrative we are speaking about rebellion against God.
Jesus has clearly laid out the instructions for His disciples in the Bible. Briefly, we are to love God with all of our heart and strength and love others as we love ourself.
There are many other precepts but probably the most important is to “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these other things will be added unto you.”
Another way of interpreting this truth for a Christ follower is to zealously seek the will of God above all else.
What happens to most believers is they examine the life of Jesus and accept what is comfortable and discard the more difficult and demanding words of Jesus.
There are two reasons this happens:
First, you and I are self driven people who desire to live our own life and make our own decisions.
Secondly, we have a recalcitrant nature and reject the authority of Jesus.
At times, we all discard the teachings of Jesus in some way. The cost of obedience is just too expensive.
It is difficult and painful to give up your rights and independence to Jesus. For many this is just asking too much.
How does Jesus fit into this human predicament?
First of all, Jesus knows you better than you know yourself. He is aware of all your weaknesses and fleshly desires to live for self.
Jesus is not looking for perfection. He is just asking you to be willing to change.
As a starting point, find a quiet time and place to meet with Jesus.
Speak candidly to Jesus and express your doubts about trusting Him. Ask Jesus what you need to change in your life? Then listen to His response.
The advantage of accepting the fullness of Jesus!
Jesus will create a personal and embracing relationship with you. He will become your best friend and speak to you frequently.
Jesus will enhance the quality of your life including your marriage and family, your work and your special interests.
Jesus will do things for you that you can never do for yourself.
The Holy Spirit will give you spiritual gifts and revelations from Christ.
Jesus will share His life with you through the Holy Spirit. Jesus will fill you with His attributes of strength, joy, wisdom and protection.
Jesus is omniscient and will protect you from evil.
Jesus will reward your obedience with an abundant life filled with the goodness of God.
Hal Hollister Ministry 