The apostles {that Jesus sent out} came back to Jesus. They gathered around Jesus and told him about all the things they did and taught. Jesus and his followers were in a very busy place. There were many, many people. Jesus and his followers did not even have time to eat. Jesus said to his followers, "Come with me. We will go to a quiet place to be alone. There we will get some rest." So Jesus and his followers went away alone. They went in a boat to a place where there were no people.
— Mark 6:30-32 NLT
Key Thought
The good we do for the Kingdom occurs because of God's work through us. Yes, we offer ourselves to be used by God as his vessels, but the glory, the power, and the effectiveness come from our obedient submission and God's glorious work through us. To God belongs all the glory! But, being used by God is tiring work no matter how exciting it may be. God's servants need periods of rest and renewal. This means getting away from the rush of ministry and rekindling our passions, energy, and focus in the presence of other devoted servants and in the presence of Jesus as we honor God. In other words, humility has two faces: first, humility is seen in the life of a person who serves God for the Father's glory, and second, humility is seen when those who serve God acknowledge their need for rest and time away from the rush to be with God.
Today's Prayer
Father, please give me the right heart to be a humble servant. Remove from me the desire to accomplish great things so my name is known or my actions are praised. I want you to be glorified. In addition, dear Father, please gently humble me when I try to depend upon my own energies rather than spending time resting in your presence and letting you re-kindle my spirit and re-energize my body. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
- Luke 5:15-16
- 1 Peter 4:10-11
- Acts 14:26-28
About This Devotional
What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.
What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.
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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