Today’s Reading: John 6:22-24
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus.”
* * * * *
After Jesus had fed the 10,000-plus people, word about the miracle spread quickly. Throngs tried to find out where he was staying. When they couldn’t find him, they continued seeking him.
Why do you seek him? This crowd simply wanted more food. They just wanted another miracle. They wanted Jesus to serve them. They didn’t desire to serve him. They sought a magic genie in a bottle—a genie that would say to them, “Your wish is my command.”
That’s not the kind of follower Jesus desires. When someone seeks him and chooses to follow him, they need to know they are choosing to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him. They are choosing to die to self and live for his glory. They are choosing to crucify their own lusts of the flesh and live a holy life that emulates who he is. They are choosing to leave any other god, lust, or passion that would be placed above him. They are choosing to seek first his kingdom and his way of right living.
It’s a life that demands your soul, effort, and energy—your all.
Why do you seek Jesus?
If you are truly seeking him, you will find him. True spiritual seekers will always discover him and choose to live for him. He is their first priority. They choose serving over being a celebrity. Any praise they receive is like a rose that is smelled and enjoyed, but then given to him. They know every gift they have comes from him.
Why do you seek Jesus? Be honest with your answer. Are you following him for him to serve you, or for you to serve him? For your glory or his?
Know that as you follow him, he promises to meet your every need. He is concerned with every area of your life. He wants you to enjoy life and to do so abundantly. He is not a miser. He doesn’t withhold blessings from his followers who do what is right. He loves to give blessings to those who trust him and make the Lord their confidence and hope. He enjoys giving his favor generously to people who need and desire him.
Jesus is good and kind. His mercies endure forever. He is worthy to be followed.
Just make sure you know why you are seeking him. And what it will cost you to follow him.
It’s very important that you rightly know. When you do, you will be able to persevere until the end.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]