Jesus Sent His Disciples Out Empty Handed

In scripture, Jesus is reported to have sent His disciples out empty handed, commanding them not to take the customary clothing, provisions or money that would ordinarily improve the success of their mission. In regard to this story I believe that being sent out empty handed is a common event for missions received from Jesus. In addition, a mission received from Jesus is typically impossible for us to achieve without His help. To be successful we must learn to have total faith in God. After all, only when the world sees the impossible achieved through the power of God will they also start to look to Jesus for answers and support. Only when the world sees the miracles of God supporting His saints will they come to believe that Jesus is the Son of God and the Christ. Why would any Jew or Moslem for example, be persuaded to believe in Jesus when we appear to be just as divided and powerless as they are? It is through miraculous circumstances that the unbeliever will become ripe for the harvest.

The point is that if we are committed to modeling our lives after the life of our Savior Jesus, then we do not need worldly things for the ministry to be successful. If we do not have what is required then we pray without doubting and know that He will provide. In fact, we are much better off having an undoubting faith than to have magnificent resources in support of our ministry. Speaking for myself, I believe that the favor of God is a requirement for successful ministry. Without it all the assets of the world can become ineffective.

We should not hesitate to take on missions that have improbable outcomes. After all, what glory is there for God if the world knows that we achieved something on our own abilities? If Jesus has sent us out, then we should not worry about our inabilities or limited resources in achieving it. If He sent us, then He will provide the money, materials, people and anything else we need for that matter. Have faith and stick to the things that He has shown you. Continue on in faith and do not doubt. I tell you He will deliver what is needed at the very last minute. Do not waiver but rather, stand strong.

In addition, do not try to solve problems in accordance with the ways of man. God deserves all the credit, wait on Him and let Him do the impossible through you. Most of all ensure that when He delivers that you give Him all of the glory.

Finally, when He calls you and sends you out, act quickly, be obedient and do not be distracted from your mission.

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