Tuesday Devo

Read Luke 12:35-48. Are you ready for Jesus to come? I think this passage can be applied to the 2nd coming but also to the many ways in which Jesus comes every day. Jesus taught his disciples to pray, "Father in heaven hallowed be your name, let your kingdom come and you will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Later in Luke Jesus will say, "The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, 'Look, here it is!' or 'There it is!' For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst."

Jesus is constantly coming. His spirit is constantly moving we must be wise and faithful managers or we'll miss out on his working right in our midst. The simplicity of "distraction" can be our greatest enemy! The wise manager knows this life is a test. We will be tempted to trade eternal life for temporary fleeting pleasures - many do. Remember eternal life is not simply life in eternity - it starts when you are saved and also represents the "quality" of life here. (I John 5:11)

The last passage said not to worry about our life but seek first God's kingdom. I pointed out yesterday that this did not mean to rid ourself of all concern but concern for our promotion.

John the Baptist put it well in John 3:26-31. When we're waiting for the bridegroom to come we're consumed with honoring him. We enjoy becoming less so he can increase. This can't be overstated. Where Jesus is coming to it must be an area where those present are ready to decrease so he can increase.

I have seen this in churches and communities. The Lord is willing ready and longing to move in power but it will require a leader to decrease his control. He won't do it. A couple is struggling in their marriage and they both need to decrease and humble themselves. If they would - the kingdom would come and be set up and God exalted. Churches need to partner which will cause all to receive less glory for their accomplishments and God will receive more.

This passage ends with a note that is very personal to me right now. A friend of mine who knows betters is committing a terrible sin. I was thinking of this passage last night not realizing it was in Luke 12! I have been praying for something drastic to come and break into this person's life.  Anything to wake them up in this life so their soul doesn't get tortured in the next. They have no excuse. They have been entrusted with much. They know exactly what they're doing and have given themselves over to satan. Lord please wake them up before its too late! If they continue they will receive "many blows."

questions

1) Where might God be setting up the kingdom around you? How?

2) What are the distractions that keep you from seeing God in your midst? (not sinful things but simply distractions)

3) What did you learn from the last 2 verses?

prayer

Father we do pray your kingdom would come. We don't want to be easily distracted like Martha in the kitchen when only one thing matters. Give us spiritual eyes to see what you're doing around us. Let us start each day with you and prepare our mind for action so we're ready to see you lifted high. Let us become less so you can increase.