John 6:15 Then Jesus, realizing that they were about to come and make Him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by Himself.
For some reason, this scripture really stuck out to me for the first time the other day. I’m not sure that I ever really considered the idea that the crowd was planning on making Jesus king by force. What exactly does that look like? If someone doesn’t want to be king, how can he forcefully be made king?
Pondering these questions caused me to also wonder why Jesus felt he had to leave them altogether. Couldn’t he have simply said, “No thank you.”
Then it dawned on me… perhaps this was yet another temptation. Scripture tells us that Jesus was tempted in EVERY way that we are (Hebrews 4:15). This could be one of those ways. Thankfully, Jesus showed us once again how to resist such temptations.
When flattering opportunity (or any opportunity for that matter) presents itself to you, and the crowd loves you as they offer up accolades in unison, consider the possibility that it doesn’t necessarily mean this opportunity is God’s will for you. Walk away from the crowd and/or the tempting loud noise that forcefully floods our thoughts shouting,
“Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!”
“Surely this must be from the Lord.”
“Those people are in awe of you, and in agreement about your role.”
“After all, isn’t this part of God’s calling for your life?”
“Perhaps this is how God will fulfill His plan and purpose for you.”
Sometimes these thoughts can be so loud that we convince ourselves they are of the Lord. And they very well could be from the Lord, but please be aware that puffed up flesh can be very difficult to subdue. In fact, the more puffed up, the more difficult.
Be wise and follow Jesus’s wonderful example… Go somewhere secluded and PRAY. Quiet the noise and opinions of others. Quiet the noise of your own desires. Be still. Bring every thought captive as you go before the Father to seek His will and direction. Surrender your mind, will and emotions to Father God. Listen for Holy Spirit’s direction and guidance.
To view more posts like this, visit Michele’s Manna and subscribe.