May 18, 2021
Jesus Gave You His Power
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So, pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” (Matthew 9:36-38 NLT)
My much-loved child, now is the time for the gifts and talents you possess to come forth and be used in the Kingdom of God. Consider the twelve disciples. My Son Jesus mentored them until it was time for them to launch out into the deep on their own. When He looked out over the crowds, His heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. “What a huge harvest!” He said to His disciples. “There are so few workers! Get on your knees and pray for the laborers to come forth to bring in the harvest!” (Matthew 9:37-38).
Shortly after that, Jesus called twelve of his followers and sent them into the fields ready to be harvested. He gave them the power to cast out demonic evil spirits and heal all sickness and disease and tenderly care for the bruised and hurt lives. (Matthew 10:1) The names of those He sent were Simon (they called him Peter/Rock), Andrew his brother, James, Zebedee’s Son, John his brother, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew (the tax man), James, Son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon, the Canaanite, Judas Iscariot (who later turned on him). (Matthew 10:2-4)
Jesus sent His twelve laborers out with this charge. “Don’t begin by traveling to some far-off place to convert unbelievers. And don’t try to be dramatic by tackling some public enemy. Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Start where you live and tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously. “Don’t think you have to put on a fund-raising campaign before you start. You don’t need much equipment. You are the equipment, and all you need to keep that going is three meals a day. Travel light. (Matthew 10:5-10)
”When you enter a town or village, don’t insist on staying in a luxury inn. Get a modest place with some humble people and be content there until you leave. (Matthew 10:11) “When you knock on a door, be courteous in your greeting. If they welcome you, be gentle in your conversation. If they don’t welcome you, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way. You can be sure that on Judgment Day, they’ll be mighty sorry-but it’s no concern of yours now. (Matthew 10:12-15 Message) Effective leaders attract those with talents and help develop others to reach their potential. No one models this better than Jesus. Jesus has given you His power, don’t let the enemy take it from you!
