PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 10:9-15
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Let your peace rest on it… let your peace return to you.” (Matthew 10:13)
Jesus asks the disciples to trust God to provide for their needs.
They were to freely bless people, and welcome hospitality that was offered them.
They could trust that “some worthy person” (v.11) would welcome and host them.
They were not to be pushy or judgmental – they were agents of peace.
If someone rejected them and refused to offer hospitality, simply move on.
They were not to take anything from those who didn’t welcome them… not even dust (v.16).
Jesus is not suggesting that they curse those who reject them; this is not the Jesus Way.
“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” (Romans 12:14)
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)
How do you respond to those who reject your faith, or don’t appreciate your kindness?
The temptation to pressure them or be critical is strong, but we must resist it.
We are always agents of peace, no matter how people respond, even if they reject us.
It is this gracious offer of peace, even to our enemies, that opens hearts to God!
My job is to offer peace; the Lord will deal with those who hear and receive it… or don’t.
PRAYER
Lord, let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me. Help me not to let other people’s lack of peace keep me from still being an agent of peace.
” If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave” Many times the gospel is not well received – people are not receptive to it – sometimes hostile. Though it is disappointing when people do not receive the gospel – we ought not be surprised. Jesus told his disciples to be prepared for that – not to argue but to simply leave. When we run into situations where what we have to share is blocked – we should be prepared to leave as well – go and find others who are ‘receptive’ and willing to listen. Lord help me to be discerning yet willing to try – to find the ‘fertile soil’ where the seed of the good news will sprout!
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
The days today are uncertain. But being in Christ, I have His peace which surpasses all understanding. I need to be an instrument of His peace which He has given me to share with others. I can not foretell the outcome. That is in His hands. I can share the Good News always with His Spirit leading and guiding me. Just trust and obey and do His will. He will take care of the rest.
1 Be not dismayed whate’er betide,
God will take care of you;
Beneath his wings of love abide,
God will take care of you.
Refrain:
God will take care of you,
Through ev’ry day,
O’er all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of you.
2 Through days of toil when heart does fail,
God will take care of you;
When dangers fierce your path assail,
God will take care of you. [Refrain]
3 All you may need he will provide,
God will take care of you;
Nothing you ask will be denied,
God will take care of you. [Refrain]
4 No matter what may be the test,
God will take care of you;
Lean, weary one, upon his breast,
God will take care of you. [Refrain]