John
6:22-71 described the time that Jesus walked this earth, a vast multitude
followed Him. They came for all sorts of reasons—some noble, some selfish. The
same is true today. It’s important that we understand what motivates people to
come to Christ, because not all who seek Him are really His followers. In fact,
we each need to analyze our own walk with the Lord: What do we want from Him?
How committed are we to being His disciples?
Many
of the people who followed Jesus did so because they had urgent needs that He
alone could meet. Everywhere He went, the sick and demon-possessed were brought
to Him—this is one of the ways that God draws us to Himself. Those who can
solve all their own problems never need a Savior.
Other
folks came for sensationalism. They wanted to see the signs and miracles and
feel a thrill of excitement. Today some people come to church or conferences to
get pumped up, but mountaintop experiences are always followed by valleys. When
hardships or challenges come, such people are quick to abandon the Lord.
But
Jesus’ disciples followed Him because they genuinely believed He was the
Messiah, the very Son of God (Matthew 16:16). Their commitment went beyond
emotions or needs. They wanted to know Christ and walk closely with Him.
Do
you find it hard to stay committed without an emotional experience to sustain
you?
(Written by Dr. Charles Stanley, 1st January 2019)
Profile Information Source:
Dr.
Charles Stanley is one of the contributing writers for Crosswalk Com Devotional
Text.
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