by Deb Seibert
Within this past year, Jeff and I have encountered a few God-given times where He has proved this to be true. An edifying situation was shared by our daughter-in-law. Her unsaved father was diagnosed with cancer and when he was asked by a pastor what he knew about Jesus, he replied that he really didn’t know much but he felt “something was different” when Jeff prayed to God. In our hearts we thanked God, realizing people really can see Jesus in our lives. The second situation was convicting. We were babysitting grandchildren in their home and I was attempting to clean a light fixture, needing Jeff’s help, but we both displayed impatience with one another. About 20 minutes later, our five year-old granddaughter said, “I really don’t think you should treat each other that way!” It was a great teaching time to share that she was absolutely right, we should be showing love, just as Jesus did.
People are watching you! But the important question is, are you watching Jesus? If our eyes are truly fixed on Him, we will be reading His word daily, praying, and allowing His Spirit to lead us (Romans 8:14, “Those who are led by the Spirit are sons of God.”) Jesus is our example to follow: He fixed His eyes on His Father, He memorized God’s Word, He was led by the Spirit, and He did only what His Father told Him to do. This is how Jesus obtained victory. If we have Jesus in our hearts, we should be showing the world this same victory!
Speaking of victory, I love the story in John 18:4-6, where Judas and the mob show up at the garden with weapons to detain Jesus. He didn’t run or flee, he STEPPED FORWARD. He didn’t ask them what they wanted or why they were there, but He asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I AM HE” Jesus said. And when Jesus said, “I AM HE,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Jesus used His own weapon, “I AM” (Jehovah) or “I AM” (God). Why did they fall? It was the power of His words; He is always the victor! And by His help we can be victors too. We have the same power that rose Jesus from the dead living in us (Romans 8:11) and we have the armor of God (Ephesians 6:11) to put on daily. He supplies everything we need—He is everything we need!
People certainly watched Jesus and, if you are a Christian, they are watching you, too! What is the world seeing in your life?
Dear Jesus, we know that Your love is the greatest gift of all. And we know that this is a gift that must go forward. You have put us in the world at just this time, at just this place, to share You and Your love. Yes, Lord, our lives should reflect to others that we know You. But we also ask Your Spirit to lead us with Your words to share Your great love with others. Thank you, Lord!