No Matter What
Jesus was often challenged publicly by religious leaders. They would demand answers to their questions; Why was He doing what He was doing; By what authority was He doing those things? Well, when the appointed time came, Jesus stood trial before the religious High Counsel. What did Jesus do during that trial that threw the Counsel into a rage? What would cause the High Priest over all Israel to tear his priestly robe and send Jesus to the cross?
Some three years earlier, John had baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. As Jesus rose from the water the Bible records a voice from heaven saying, “You are My dearly loved Son, and you bring Me great joy.” God the Father, Creator of heaven and earth, affirmed Jesus as His Son!
Fast forward again to Jesus’ trial. The High Priest asked Him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I AM.” He simply agreed with what God had said. That agreement resulted in His crucifixion. However, without His death there could be no miracle of resurrection, no forgiveness of all our sins. You can say His life and ministry consisted of two things; agreement with the Word of God and fulfillment of the will of God.
Before you find yourself in a personal trial, seek the Lord (through prayer) and read His Word (the Bible). If you’re already in a trial, and need wisdom or direction…do the same thing. “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5) There in the Word of God you will find the Will of God. And yes, He wants you to know His will.
Inevitably, our willingness to agree with the Word will be tested. When God gives you a Word, stand firm on it. No matter what anyone else may say or how desperate things may seem, stand on it. Why stand? Because, circumstances do not determine whether or not the “Truth” is indeed truth. Isaiah 55:11 declares that no matter what, you can rest assured that the Word of God will, “…always produces fruit. It will accomplish all (God) wants it to, and it will prosper everywhere (He) sends it.” Even if you find yourself standing alone in an impossible situation, hold-fast to what God has given you. Then, lift up your eyes and see what He will do.
As for me, I have been guilty of much in my life. But now, if I am to be guilty of anything, let me be found guilty of agreeing with the Word of God. No matter what!
(Matthew 3:16-17 & Luke 3:21-22)
