Jesus told the crowd not to tell anyone [about his healing the deaf man], but the more he told them not to, the more they spread the news. They were completely amazed and said again and again, "Everything he does is wonderful. He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who cannot speak."
—Mark 7:36-37 NLT
Despite Jesus' intentions and efforts to keep things quiet about his miraculous power to heal, the healing miracle in the previous verses became known and his reputation only spread faster and farther. The people were amazed and wanted others to know. And yes, his deeds were wonderful, but Jesus was so much more than a miracle worker in his earthly ministry and that was harder to teach. We need to remember that with popularity comes misunderstanding. Some of that misunderstanding can actually inhibit us from fulfilling our mission from God. So as we look at our churches and ministries, let's pray for true success: an impact on the broken world for Jesus and faithfulness to the mission God has given us.
O Father, I know the good things that I am able to do to bless others are because of your grace and power. I do want my influence for you to expand and impact others. As that happens, dear LORD, please keep my heart pure, my mission in focus, and your glory uppermost on my heart. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by ### and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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—Mark 7:36-37 NLT
Key Thought
Despite Jesus' intentions and efforts to keep things quiet about his miraculous power to heal, the healing miracle in the previous verses became known and his reputation only spread faster and farther. The people were amazed and wanted others to know. And yes, his deeds were wonderful, but Jesus was so much more than a miracle worker in his earthly ministry and that was harder to teach. We need to remember that with popularity comes misunderstanding. Some of that misunderstanding can actually inhibit us from fulfilling our mission from God. So as we look at our churches and ministries, let's pray for true success: an impact on the broken world for Jesus and faithfulness to the mission God has given us.
Today's Prayer
O Father, I know the good things that I am able to do to bless others are because of your grace and power. I do want my influence for you to expand and impact others. As that happens, dear LORD, please keep my heart pure, my mission in focus, and your glory uppermost on my heart. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by ### and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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