"How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly." (John 10:24)
The Jews gathered around Jesus, demanding to know once and for all whether he really was the Messiah. That kind of question surfaces in everyone at times.We all want assurances from God - both about who he is and about our own lives. What job should I take? Whom should I marry? How should I manage my finances? We all want to do the right thing, to please Him, and to trust Him with our whole lives. But sometimes it seems hard to know how to do just that.
Look at how Jesus answered the Jews: "I've told you. Look at what I've done. Consider it all, and you'll figure it out." Just as he did back then, even today Jesus is inviting us to weigh the evidence and decide for ourselves on the best course of action. He will never force our hand. And He will never ask more of us than we can believe or do. "I know you," he says. "I know your strengths and your weaknesses, your hopes and your fears." He knows what you believe and what you aren't yet ready to believe. So trust him, and don't worry about getting everything right. Just do the best you can.
Where can you find the evidence to consider? Your first stop should be to his words and deeds as recorded in Scripture. Read them as if they were spoken to you personally. Let them find a place in your heart. When fears or uncertainty begin to shake you, remind yourself of what He has said to you: "I give you eternal life. No one can snatch you from me. My Father holds you in the palm of His hand, and no one can wrestle you away from Him."
Jesus won't keep you in suspense. Every day, he wants to reassure you of his love and care. Repeat it to yourself: "God has good plans for me. He will lead me in the right path." Scripture is full of such promises. Ask to see them in your life today.
So based on what you know, decide to follow him the best you can - and then watch your best, get better!
~ Pastor Todd
