Pitfalls To Avoid In Kingdom Living - Disciple Makers Series #8Sample

Watch out! It is easy to be deceived by results.

Thoughts on this passage

Watch out! Doing things for God without the Spirit.

People who follow Jesus, but do it on their own will be incredibly upset when God rejects everything they have done. They acknowledge Jesus as Lord but then refuse to listen to His Spirit. They use their spiritual gifts but it is all about them and what they do. They speak about Jesus but it is all about their efforts and hard work.

It is going to be a terrible shock for them. God will not acknowledge anything they have done.

It is easy to be deceived that God must be happy with me because of what I do, because of the spiritual gifts that I possess and use. God is happy only when we obey Him and walk in obedience. That starts with listening to His Spirit and obeying what the Spirit commands us to do.

Time to Pray

Father, this warning that Jesus gives to His disciples scares me the most. I know how easy it is to be deceived. I think I know what to do, but really do not. I know that it starts with obedience to the basics – forgiving others, trusting You to take care of me today, rejoicing in every situation, serving others. Father, I also know that if I try and do even these things in my own strength, I will fail. So remind me afresh today to let Your Spirit direct me and lead me. I know that I can trust You to warn me if I start doing things in my strength – give me ears to hear You speak. Thank you. In Jesus’ name Amen.