August 05, 2020: SOAP #3898:  2Kings 23; 2Chronicles 35; John 7

Scripture:  John (NIV) 7:3 Jesus’ brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. 4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” 5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. 6 Therefore Jesus told them, “The right time for me has not yet come; for you, any time is right. … 8 You go to the Feast. I am not yet going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come.” 9 Having said this, he stayed in Galilee. 10 However, after his brothers had left for the Feast, he went also, not publicly, but in secret.

Observation:   Although Jesus brothers did not believe Him to be the Messiah, that did not stop them from trying to be his campaign managers.  The feast of Tabernacles would be bringing many people to Jerusalem.  It would provide a place for Jesus to perform some miracles and become better known.  They thought Jesus needed to be there quickly and take advantage of the opportunity to become even better known.  This was a perfect set up for Jesus!  (Little did they know!)  

For Jesus, the issue was not about going to Jerusalem or not going…the issue was timing.  He was on earth to do His Father’s will. 

Application:  Timing is important to the Heavenly Father.  Just look at creation and see the importance of timing.  Timing was important in the ministry of Jesus while on the earth.  Timing is just as important in my daily life.  When there is an urgency from the Holy Spirit to do something, I need to be quick.  When things are not working out as I want, it is ok to wait for God’s perfect timing.   The answer “Wait” is just as important as “Yes” or “No.” 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, help me wait in your will.  Help me to trust that waiting for your perfect timing will accomplish more than my running ahead on my own.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity! 

Note:  Thanks for all your prayers today.  The report from the heart cath was very good.  Praise the Lord!  Tonight, I am back to the SOAPs!  Sharon was allowed to stay in the waiting room where she had opportunity to pray with another lady waiting for her husband.  And the doctors will be able to work on my heart valve without opening my chest; the recovery time is much shorter.  I still may miss a day or two of SOAPs, but I will let you know if/when that happens.  Leon 😊