Manipulation • Troubled • Useless

Manipulation • Troubled • Useless

The language of Luke 21:34-36 is one of those examples that deals with how easy it is for substituting things in this life. The passage is using the current reality of many, in a figurative sense, to illustrate a very important point. Many use alcohol and other vices to escape the reality that they know... it's a relief or substitute for living and dealing with the challenges life presents.

Figuratively, Jesus applied this illustration to His disciples and instructed them to "take heed to themselves" for fear they take their eyes off of Him and their responsibility as His ambassadors upon the earth. It would be easy to substitute that responsibility with getting weighed down and overwhelmed with the world they lived in. If they didn't take "personal accountability and responsibility" (the idea of taking heed to themselves) they would get sidetracked and off mission.

This world we live in will make you sick and poison your mind like strong alcohol and leave you hungover and useless if we fail to see our mission and take our eyes off Jesus. Don't let it distract you... don't let it substitute your duty as a disciple maker. I know it can be frustrating and weigh heavily upon you... with all that's happening in our day, but I encourage you to turn to the Lord and wait upon Him. (Isaiah 40:31) It's something we cannot substitute... with frivolous and useless things.

#nestingwithjesus #mark #mark13 #luke21