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Disruption in Love
Tim Savage25He called them together, along with others employed in similar trades, and addressed them as follows: “Gentlemen, you know that our wealth comes from this business. 26But as you have seen and heard, this man Paul has persuaded many people that handmade gods aren’t really gods at all. And he’s done this not only here in Ephesus but throughout the entire province! Acts 19
Paul was a disrupter. He didn’t just go along for the ride, he didn’t try to fit in or keep the status quo. He made waves. He followed his Lord and Savior even when it wasn’t politically correct. When he spoke out against the worthless, powerless idols in Ephesus he upset the political and business leaders who profited from idol worship. They were angry and looked for retribution. They weren’t interested in truth; they were only interested in power and money.
2000 years ago Paul faced what we still face today. The idols of fame, influence, power and money are worthless and powerless, but the world has invested so heavily in them that they will do anything to protect them.
I must learn to become a disrupter. I have to be fearless of people’s opinions, judgment and retribution in following Jesus’ commands. I am so aware of being politically correct and non-confrontational that I will sometimes appear to go along with the crowd and not upset the boat. If I appear to follow the crowd, it’s just as bad as actually following the crowd. In a time when our country’s morals are decaying faster than ever and intolerance for Christian beliefs increases daily, it is no longer enough to stand by silently. I can’t be content to be neutral, nor can I militantly judge people with fire and brimstone. 2000 years ago Jesus loved both sinner and saint and since none of us are saints and we’re all sinners we must love others. So I can’t condone sin, but neither will I cut people out of my life because of sin. The best example I have to follow is Jesus and He loved all, but He also pointed them to their very best in helping them to leave their sin behind, so also must I.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please forgive me when I have fallen short and let you down. Please help me to grow in my courage to represent You well. Thank You for Your grace and mercy on my life.
In Jesus name,
Amen
