BEING VUNERABLE
Matthew 22:36-40
V. 39: “And the second [greatest commandment] is like it [the first]: ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’”.
Matthew 22:36-40
V. 39: “And the second [greatest commandment] is like it [the first]: ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’”.
“Wait here” Jesse told Randy, and ran to the soccer field where the girls were playing at recess. (See Juicy Gossip Devotion).
“Hey Cassie, can you come with me for a minute?
“What’s this about, Jess?” Cassie asked, walking along side, slightly out of breath.
“Randy said something that I hope you can straighten out.”
“What did he say?”
“He said you went parking with Mark Johnson after the football game last Friday.” Cassie laughed out loud. “You’re gonna live this, Jesse!”
“Hey Randy!” Cassie demanded. “What’s this I hear?”
“What’s going on with you and Mark Johnson?” Randy asked, his face a smirk.
“I love Mark, Randy. But I doubt that you’d understand.”
Sometimes, following Jesus makes ourselves vulnerable (VUL-ner-ab-le, meaning exposed, at risk). Cassie may or may not have a valid reason for exposing her love for Mark, but she proclaimed her love without excuse.
Jesse did what he thought was right—exposing Randy’s gossip to the light. He trusted God to handle the consequences.
Relationships can be complicated. Jesus wants us to treat others as we’d like to be treated. This Golden Rule, Matthew 22:39, is often difficult when we feel helpless—exposed in the light of truth. Regardless of our circumstances, God’s rule always applies.
What if kindness, or a loving attitude opens the door to additional hurt? Obedience is challenging, isn’t it? Even the youngest kids seem to know better than to open themselves up to pain and ridicule. In defense of our actions, we often weave a tangled web of lies. This always leads us to treat another badly, and is disobedient to Jesus’ command.
Human nature wants to avenge wrong. In fact, we cannot do otherwise on our own strength.
Thankfully, God provides us help. The hidden secret in treating others the way we’d like to be treated comes from our friend, the Holy Spirit. Believers’ indwelt guide steers God’s kids to be obedient in every situation.
The Holy Spirit also protects us from risk of getting hurt when obeying God. He soothes pain, provides strength, and inspires us to forgive.
Treating others the way we’d like to be treated, regardless of what the world proclaims, is a win-win every time.
Take Home Nugget
When Jesse exposed Randy’s claim to Cassie, a door opened for an opportunity where everyone could save face (keeping everyone’s dignity intact).
“So, you love Mark?” Randy sounded sarcastic.
“Yes, silly, he’s my cousin!” Cassie finally admitted.
Obedience doesn’t always seem to make sense, but trusting God always makes sense.
J.D. Griffith
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Written for Bible Study for Kids.
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