Based on “God Reaches People through People” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 4/14-15/12,
Message #MB512; Daily Devotional #3 - “As You Are Going...”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19) Many times when I heard this verse growing up, I was sure God was going to tell me to go to some weird place in the world to share the Gospel with people I did not know. The pastors would remind us constantly that it was not a suggestion, but a command. And, it seemed when missionaries spoke, they would inevitably say, “I told God I would not go to such and such place, and that is where God sent me.” So, I thought I had to be ready to go at a moment’s notice, and never say I didn’t want to go somewhere specific, lest I be sent to that very place! It was not the greatest encouragement to fulfill the great commission.
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): Praise God! He did not leave me with that understanding of His character. When we look at the word ‘go’ in Matthew 28:19, the Greek adds a little more context. In the Greek it is a continuing action which can be read as “Therefore, as you are going.” Or today, we might say, “While you journey through life.” His commandment may encompass us going to another country, but that isn’t the only option. We must not put God in a box in His creativity to reach the lost. He has chosen to use us to disciple people right where we are, as well as everywhere He guides us. So the pressure, to figure out what country to go to, is off. Now we can see we do not have to wait; that we are to be discipling right here and now. So with that in mind, what are you doing to disciple others as you are on this journey of life?
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): If you are reading this, more than likely you have internet access, whether on your phone or your computer. That means you can (as you are going on the internet) obey Matthew 28:19. Follow Pastor Mark's vision and join GMO and disciple others and touch the world. Use what God has blessed you with to bless others. However, do not neglect your responsibility to your neighbors, friends and coworkers. As we are living our lives, we need to take EVERY opportunity to share with others what we have learned and experienced, no matter where we find ourselves. I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. (John 14:12) But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (John 14:26)
Cultivating (Additional Reading): Luke 19:10; Matthew 28:18-20
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Calvary Chapel of Melbourne; 2955 Minton Road; W. Melbourne, FL 32904; 321-952-9673
All Bible references are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.