When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36 (NIV)
Our world is in a mess with natural disasters, economic problems, crime, drug abuse, food shortages, etc.
Times really haven’t changed much. This verse describes the situation as Jesus traveled throughout the towns and villages of Israel. Everywhere He turned, he saw people like helpless sheep.
Time and again Jesus had personally been meeting specific needs- healing the sick, feeding thousands, and even raising the dead. He could have continued this approach, but He chose another route.
Jesus was developing his disciples and gradually empowering them to take the lead. Read Matthew 10:1 where he gave them authority, even to the point of casting out demons and healing every sickness and disease.
God’s plan has always encompassed this kind of team approach. His plan from the beginning is for us to participate in His work. Though He is our Creator and Sustainer, He needs leaders to carry out much of the work.
Will you accept God’s challenge to lead?
The content of this Devotional comes from “Daily Strength for the Battle (You, God’s Word, 5 Minutes): Volume 6 Developing the Leader in You” (2020) and is copyrighted by Scott and Judy McChrystal. Used with permission.
