Stay Put

January 4

(Acts 1:4 NIV) "On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem…"

(Philippians 4:11-13 NIV) "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. {12} I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. {13} I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

(Jeremiah 29:11 NIV) "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Even though it was dangerous, the risen Christ told His disciples to stay put and remain in Jerusalem. That may be good advice today, as we struggle with commitment and contentment. Fickle spirits contaminate the church, and we end up changing churches as often as we change our socks. There are various excuses. “I’m not being fed… I don’t feel the Spirit… They aren’t friendly enough… Somebody ticked me off.” But usually, the real reasons go deeper. Maybe we were confronted with a hard truth, or called to change a behavior. Perhaps we were asked to contribute, or maybe we just didn’t get our way -- and so we bail. But before we change churches, we should consider changing our hearts. Moving around is not necessarily moving up. If we leave Jerusalem before it’s time, we may miss what God has for us. There may be exceptions, but consider staying put for now. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day