#1009 – Clear Instructions

Good morning people who live by God’s Word

I love the directness of Jesus’ teaching. He doesn’t beat around the bush nor does He make it unclear. Listen to what He says here:

Luke 8:19-21 Now Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see Him, but they were not able to get near Him because of the crowd. Someone told Him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s Word and put it into practice.”

…My mother and brothers (my family) are those who hear God’s Word and put it into practice.

Not unclear at all really, is it?

Now before you throw your hands up and brand me a legalist or living under the law, may I remind you that this simple command is repeated numerous times in the New Testament.

So let me ask you plainly again, as I have many times before:

“How is your listening to God’s Word and God’s Voice going?”

This is the foundation of our relationship. In fact, I must say that listening to and hearing God speak through His Word and through the Holy Spirit is more important than us talking to God. Listening and hearing is essential.

But then here’s that wonderful second part of Jesus’ instruction:

“Put what you hear into practice.”

Not exactly sugar-coated is it? Nor does it need to be. We need to hear the truth clearly and we need to fully embrace it and do what it says.

“How much of what you know do you do?”

My prayer is that this simple instruction from Jesus will be foundational to all of our lives.