Send Me, God…Anywhere Else
Have you ever done something you (really) didn’t want to do? Maybe you went out with a friend when you really wanted to stay in, or you spent money during a time when you really wanted to save. We say yes to a lot of things in life knowing full well what will be on the other side of it, but with God, it doesn’t already work that way. There is a famous quote by Martin Luther King, Jr that says “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” We’d argue that following God looks a lot like that picture — He asks us to follow him, even when we don’t always know what the end result will be.
In Acts 9 (NIV), we see this painted when the Lord calls out to Ananias in a vision, and his response is simply “Yes, Lord.” The Lord speaks to him in verse 10 and says, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.” This is where Ananias becomes a little skeptical. He gives God every excuse for why this would be a terrible idea. “I’ve heard about his reputation.” “He’s dangerous.” “He could kill me,” etc. But still, the Lord tells him to go because the future of His church is hinged on Ananias being obedient to these orders. Can you imagine what would’ve happened if Ananias had never restored his sight? If he would’ve allowed fear to get the best of him?
This is what happens in the body of Christ. Once we surrender our lives to Jesus, we’re adopted into a family that is connected to the ULTIMATE purpose, one much greater than our own. Our obedience becomes an integral part of advancing the Kingdom of God. But so many of us don’t say yes because we can’t make sense of what God requires in our carnal minds. We can’t apply logic or reason to what God is asking of us. This is why Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV) says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Because in today’s modern world, Biblical principles do not make sense (according to the world’s view).
The story of the Good Samaritan? Doesn’t make sense. The Samaritan, in Biblical days, was viewed as a second-class citizen. Why would he help someone who probably viewed him as less than? Because Jesus calls us to love in all times — even the people who may not love us back.
The story of the young, rich ruler? Doesn’t make sense. Why should a rich person give up all that he has to the poor in order to follow Jesus? Because Jesus teaches us that riches are fleeting, and only a means to an end — which is ultimately, to bring the Kingdom of Heaven down to earth.
The Gospel? Doesn’t make sense. Why would a blameless man take on the sins of the world? Because God’s heart is people, and He believed that restoring relationships with us and saving humanity was the most important thing in the world.
Saying yes to Jesus? Well, it won’t always make sense. There will be times where the promise will feel like you’re trapped in a prison. There will be times when you ask God why He’s called you to a place that is desolate. There will be times when you ask God if He’s even in the midst of it all. But that’s the beauty of our yes. It’s messy, it’s complicated, it’s exciting, it builds endurance. God uses our yes to knit together a beautiful story between Him and His people, so that He can get the glory.
This week, how will you continue saying yes to Jesus?
Watch the full message “Send Me Anywhere Else” on YouTube.
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