Warriors Arise: September 16, 2023
Matthew 4:21-22 He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them, 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.
James and John were in the boat with their father, Zebedee, when Jesus called to them. I often wonder about Zebedee's response. There is no record of Zebedee saying anything. For his sons to leave the family business, there would need to be something said.
Did he try to keep the boys from going?
Did he encourage them to go?
Was he stunned by Jesus' call to his sons that he didnt' know what to say?
Did he think this was just for the day or did he know in his heart, they would no longer be taking over his business?
Did he give his blessing?
I believe the Bible is relative throughout time. My oldest is 22 and then another at 20. Both are pursuing what they understand to be God's calling upon their life. My 17 year old has known since she was 6 what she was called into. She also is making life choices that align with what God's has put in her heart to do. I still have two more, my 15 years old and the youngest is 11.
I don't know how to pray other than for them to always be in pursuit of God in everything they do and everywhere they go. I can teach them to hear God, how to follow God, a solid work ethic, to be committed to excellence, resolve conflict, learn from the loses and celebrate the wins, but ultimately they have to make the decision to use the things I have taught them or leave them behind. We can all be taught something we choose not to use.
I have found myself stunned by what God is calling them to or taking them through. I have no idea what to say. I don't know how to help them or what to do. All I can do is hoped I have trained them well so they have the tenacity, heart and focus to purpose their heart to passionately pursue God is all He leads them to do.
There was no warning. Jesus came and He called Zebedee's sons. He called them away from what Zebedee had been training them to do for their livelihood. It was very uncommon for sons to start a different business than their father. Who is this Man, Jesus? What kind of work does He do? Will He teach them a trade that will provide for his son's future and their families. What, exactly, is He calling them to do?
Father, I pray for my children to listen to Your voice. I pray they would follow when You call to them. I pray they would be diligent to do the work before them and when You call, they would respond immediately. I pray there would be no hesitation. They would not question Your call. I pray they would seek You with all their heart and follow You in Jesus' name amen.
A Warrior in the Lord’s Army,
Veridee Joy Hand
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