My Jesus Journey (Pt. 7) The Inside Scoop

Thousands of people listened to Jesus as He gave the inside scoop on putting together key pieces of life’s puzzle in a way that would result in an abundant life.  They listened with rapt attention,  sometimes for days.  His message was so intriguing that they even pushed hunger aside for long periods of time.

After He warned His audience not to judge others because it would come back to them in the same way it was dished out, He reminded them to avoid trying to perfect a brother or sister until that follower had successfully perfected themselves.   He encouraged the people to use discernment in their interaction with others because it would save them much trouble in the end.

One of His most important directives for achieving an abundant life was to BELIEVE.  If they asked, they were to believe they received.  If they were looking for something from Him, they should believe they would find it.  If they knocked, they needed to believe that the door would be opened.  It was simple, yet profound, theology with awesome results.  I decided to put this lesson into practice.  I listed, on a 3×5 card, those things I wanted Him to work on in my life.  It didn’t happen instantly; but so far, I have seen evidence of 90% of the things on my list transpire in my life.  What a thrill to realize, personally, that He does keep His word.  I asked, looked, and knocked and He answered…just like He said He would.

Another important directive given during His sermon on this mountain was, whatever you want men to do to you, you do that to them.  Now, I say, please don’t get that mixed up with whatever men do to you, do that to them…unless it is what you want to receive.   There is a world of difference.  Jesus shares these and more key behaviors we need to live peacefully and successfully with others in a way that brings God the most glory.

Matthew went on to report Jesus’ more solemn message.  Jesus urged His followers to enter into His Kingdom by the narrow way because it leads to life and not many find it.  The wide, easy way leads to destruction which, unfortunately, too many prefer to take.  He announces, that by observing, we will be able to tell the Godly from the ungodly.  The fruit of their actions will reveal the truth of their motivations.  Since not everyone that calls Him “Lord” will enter the Kingdom of heaven, we must be purposeful in doing the will of God.  In other words, we must receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior and cultivate a sincere, meaningful relationship with Him.  He desires an intimate relationship with us topped off by steadfast faith.

Now that you have the inside scoop from walking part of my Jesus journey with me, make sure to travel on with Jesus at your own pace.  Like me, I’m sure you’ll find reading the Bible will be life changing.