by[3] “His brothers therefore said to Him, “Depart from here and go into Judea, that Your disciples also may see the works that You are doing. [4] For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” [5] For even His brothers did not believe in Him.” – John 7:3-5 (NKJV)
One of the most stressful ways to live is to live pleasing others as your central goal. It makes you lose yourself because of the applause you’ll get from men. And even though this is bad, it’ll surprise you that many are living this impressionistic life and suffering on the inside. Jesus’ brothers wanted to do that to Him, but He spoke wisely to address family disbelief.
The Feast of Tabernacles was near, and the Messiah’s brothers wanted Jesus to go into Judea just to show Himself to others about what He was doing. They claimed that Jesus wanted to be a public figure, and because of that, He could not live in hiding. But that wasn’t Jesus’ case. He knew that He was first targeted to be stoned in that same city a few days back. Secondly, His time to die was not up. So, He told the brothers to take the lead.
Sometimes, as a man of God, it is interesting to see how your own family can doubt your calling. They find it rare to believe that someone who has stayed with them for decades suddenly now behaves like a pastor. So they can throw negative comments about your life just to test your resolve. Let me encourage you. Don’t let the opinion of others imprison you or dictate your course of life. Relate to others well, but keep your head straight as you follow God’s plan.
You are a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy in my life. Help me to navigate relationships well, lest people’s opinions about my decisions make me wander from Your providential way. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2025 – 335
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