I love the bit in John where Jesus would not entrust Himself because He knew the hearts of the people.
Jesus comes across as a really savvy guy, who will not get lumbered with the sort of suckers who just want to use up all your energies, but have no desire to do anything in return. Indeed, they may even more prone to abuse whatever gift you’ve been given. Jesus knows who H is, and doesn’t have to get wrapped up in the opinions of others.
I am growing to understand that it’s easy to get caught up with different people making demands on your time. Feeling wanted is a beautiful thing, but where it is just about using for the sake of it with no desire for relational purpose, then it is important to know when to withdraw.
The saying the road to hell is paved with good intentions highlight, how we can get distracted by people who want you to do commendable acts for commendable reasons, but in doing so take you away from where your time and energies should really be rooted. The guidance of God is such that He will not lead us into those areas, but He will guide us along paths of righteousness where our connection with Him informs our actions, so we only do what we see Him doing.
I am growing in understanding this because I’m only too aware of how prone I am to say ‘yes’ to almost everything in terms of helping out others using the abilities and gifts God has given. It is not to everyone I am to entrust myself, it is not to everything I am to say yes. My desire is to be so close and intimately entwined with Christ that I will have that same insight into people’s characters, and not get distracted with good intentions, but consistently pursue godly ones.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 