“[3] Jesus’ brothers said to him, “Leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do. [4] No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” [5] For even his own brothers did not believe in him.” — John 7:3 - 5 NIV
One fascinating thing that happened in Jesus’ life, which still amazes me to date, was how He was sharp with the discerning of spirits. There were some sicknesses He healed without casting out demons. Meanwhile, there were some He cast out the demons responsible for those ailments. That means that Jesus knew how the Father communicates, even with people’s voices, unbeknownst to them. Let’s look at what happened in John 7.
It was the festival of Tabernacles. And Jesus’ brothers urged him to go to Judea publicly. What they said was not wrong. But their motive for saying that was off course. They wanted to turn Jesus’ ministry into showmanship, and Jesus didn’t like that. He knew His purpose so well that nobody could talk Him out of it. His own brothers didn’t believe in Him. And so is this for every believer in an unbelieving family.
In life, many people will suggest things you can try your hands on, especially the elderly ones. Such people think they’ve gotten to a certain height in life, so they want the upcoming generation to follow the good ways. But can we note something? How good is that “good thing” they talk about? Will those people be with you when you listen to them to follow a certain path by their suggestions? Most times, it’s a huge “no!” I know of one man who followed a relative’s advice to read a specific course at the university. Today, this guy struggles to make ends meet. Life isn’t about what people tell you to do; it’s about following God’s voice, although His voice can be heard in what someone may say.
Filter out God’s voice in man’s voice. I mean, take out the advice trapped in man’s voice that tallies with what God has said about your life and destiny. Then, leave the rest out. That’s what Jesus did. He took out the Father’s will for Him to be at the festival but went privately, taking out the wrong motive his brothers used to advise Him to go publicly.
Can I encourage you, dear friend? Very few people will sideline with you when you walk in God’s providential way. Guard what you say to others and how you interpret people’s advice, especially unspiritual people. I pray for God’s guidance in your life.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, I pray in the name of Jesus. Help me to discern Your voice in people’s talks. Permit me not to follow the seemingly good ways of people so that by divine light, I’d live like Christ wherever I go. In the name of Jesus. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 032
Shareable Graphics
