Scripture
Mark 11:28,32
“By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?”
They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.
Observation
The Jewish leaders didn’t know what to do with Jesus. He had boldly disrupted their money-making schemes and the status quo at the temple. Though they held a certain place of authority in the temple, they had in reality abdicated their responsibilities and authority, because they were living in a state of fear of what the people would think. Jesus upended their illusion of power because he did not let public opinion sway him from his purpose and calling, given to him by the Father.
Application
It’s easy to get distracted by the opinions of others When God is not the primary focus, public opinion can become the default replacement. Whether through validation or criticism, people have an effect on us. Instead of chasing the ever-changing target of public opinion, I need to maintain the single-minded focus that Jesus displayed. His submission to the Father gave him confidence instead of fear. His submission to the Father gave him a place of authority. His submission to the Father gave him the ability to boldly influence every person in the crowd around him, because they were not his source of power.
This week, I need to follow my Father.
Prayer
God, thank you for adopting me as your son! Thank you that you are constant and unchanging. Help me to walk daily in submission to Your authority, as I walk in Your ways. Thank you for fulfilling your plans and purposes in my life, as I follow you.
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