10/08/2015 - Wait for the command

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While Annas and Caiaphas were high priests, the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.  Luke 3.2-3

We can say, without a doubt, that John knew the story of his birth and God’s promises for his life. It is also possible that, just as the Lord moved upon Samson as a child (Judges 13.25), somehow He also moved upon John. When called by the Most High one should wait for Him to teach him everything; he should not get ahead of the Lord’s timing.

In light of what has been said of John, we see that he started to preach because he had a mission, not because he considered the situation was favorable for him to do so. Therefore, it does not matter who incites you to go forward, it is for the Lord to ordain when you should start. Many wish to be famous and, although they do not know God’s ways, they will even help you start your ministry. Therefore do not get into hasty or demonic actions (Proverbs 19.2).

It is undeniable that the Most High is in the process of calling and preparing many who will serve Him over the next years, but nobody should get ahead of themselves and work according to their own will. When you are under divine direction, you are protected not only against the attacks of men, but also from traps of the enemy. How good it would be for the man of God not to have any hint of a bad reputation upon himself.

In those days there were two high priests: Annas and Caiaphas. The story goes that Annas had five sons, who were also high priests, as well as his son-in-law, Caiaphas (John 18.13). Because he was a man of great influence, it was expected that the high priest would be esteemed by all and even flattered by the authorities as is common today, and this might have somehow worked against the lonely ministry of John, the man who was clothed in camel’s hair.

When the right time came, John the Baptist was in the wilderness and the Word of the Lord came to him. Wherever a person may be, whether hidden in the midst of luggage (1 Samuel 10.22), or tending one’s father’s sheep (1 Samuel 16.11), when God wants to move, He knows exactly where to find the person He will use. Never use political influence or doubtful means to be chosen by men or to become known; let the Most High do the work.

The divine command was fulfilled in John’s life when he accepted to walk around the land near the Jordan river. Explore your territory, but be careful not to invade other people’s areas. What God has given you will not be encroached by anyone. Rejoice in your lot, because your lines have fallen in pleasant places (Psalms 16. 5-6).

It is important not to preach your own message, but, on the contrary, the message that the Lord has given you. Therefore, be careful not to argue or take anyone to judgment, let alone get involved in matters of this life. God needs servants who will hear Him and will not leave His sheep in order to run after worldly opportunities. The faithful will be rewarded.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares