Into the highways

"We must not be shy or ashamed, but humble, meek, and expecting the Word to accomplish God's purpose. We don't need to be confrontational, but speak out of love and true concern "

"And the lord said to the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled." - Luke 14:23

Do we hear our Lord's desire in what Jesus was teaching here? He wants people to be saved. He is not willing that any perish, but to come to repentance. Therefore, compel them to come. But what does that mean?

First, let us be clear what it does not mean. It does not mean to force them with physical force or with verbal abuse and threats. God wants those who want Him.

This compulsion must start with an intimate relationship with Christ, a strong love for Him, and a commitment to Him. When we are walking with Him like this, it is only natural to join in His work, which is the salvation of mankind. It comes from one who has known the compulsion of the Lord, repented, and follows Him wherever He leads.

There must also be a strong concern and care for others. Knowing the end result for both the born again and the un-regenerated, we carry a heavy burden, This constrains us to first come broken before the throne of God to plead for their souls. This is not a one time easy prayer, but a sacrificial and consistent labor of love, love for the Savior, and love for the sinner.

As we plead with God for the sinner, we must plead with the sinner for God. We must not be shy or ashamed, but humble, meek, and expecting the Word to accomplish God's purpose. We don't need to be confrontational, but speak out of love and true concern for their salvation. We weep before God, and we may weep before the lost. How callous the church can become and not truly care for the condition of the lost. It can become hard and judgmental, uncaring and self absorbed. It can be fearful and silent, ashamed and unbelieving of the word. We must not let that happen, but if it does, or has, we must repent and rekindle our love for Jesus and those He died for.

May we see the fruit of souls brought into the kingdom in this late hour, and may they remain.

#humility #integrity #trust #jesus #obey #live #love #wait #faith #family #fun