Devos

Psalm 50:9-12 NIV

[9] I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, [10] for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. [11] I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine. [12] If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it.

The people of Israel frequently sacrificed animals as burnt offerings to The Lord, ranging from a male bull to a lamb, goat, pigeon, or turtle dove. The reasoning for these offerings ranged from peace offerings, to repentance offerings, to even meal offerings. Through this scripture God points out how Israel was never in shortage of material sacrifices, but became set on the notion that these sacrifices were of most importance as if to think that God was dependent on them.

With so many offerings and reasons of sacrifice it's a wonder how Israel didn't strive for a more simplistic approach to pleasing God. As if He already knew our hearts and tendencies towards simplicity in everything we do today, the ability to follow God has been made simple through Jesus. The word says that whoever believes in the Son shall not perish and have everlasting life, thus being made righteous. No more burnt offerings, no more rituals, just simply believing and following Jesus.

Someone spoke of this yesterday during the debrief meeting at the dream center, but if there's one thing that stood out to me this past week, it's the simplicity that comes with loving others and being vessels for the Holy Spirit to move. From simply passing out food from a street corner and saying 'God bless you', to praying 30 seconds for a stranger, the Holy Spirit has definitely shown up in the simplest of tasks. I've struggled with this before, but it's time I simply trust God in all of my circumstances and let go of expectations. I've learned this past week that while my expectations would have me preach a 20-30 minute sermon or pray several minutes to let the Holy Spirit move, Jesus can just as effectively use a 5 minute sermon or 20 second prayer.

Dear Lord thank you for opening my eyes to how simple you've made the path to following in your ministry; to love on others and share your word. With two days left at the Dream Center help me to maximize the time and opportunities I have to be your hands and feet. Reveal to me other hidden expectations that I may currently have about what it means to be your disciple, and help make it simple.

Brandon 8/22