Read Luke 22:47-53
Be Careful How You React!
While Jesus and his disciples were at the Mount Of Olives, Judas Iscariot came with soldiers, the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard and the elders. BETRAY: Judas said that the one whom he kisses is Jesus. When he kissed Jesus, Jesus responded, “Judas, are you betraying the Son Of Man with a kiss?”
REACT: When the disciples saw what was happening they shouted, “Master, should we strike with our swords?” Just then, Peter swung his sword at the servant of the high priest. In doing so he cut the man’s ear off. Jesus was quick to say, “No more of this!” Then Jesus touched and restored the man’s ear.
DARKNESS: Jesus then confronts those who came for him saying, “Am I leading a rebellion that you have come with swords and clubs? … This is the hour when darkness reigns.”
BETRAYED: As we walk with the Lord, there will be days when someone(s) will attack what God is doing in our lives. And we will be hurt because it may be a close friend or family member. We will feel betrayed.
REACT: We will always react in some manner. We often kick into a defense mode where we want to protect ourselves. We may want to attack them with hostility and harsh words. Perhaps Jesus would say, “That’s enough!” How we react will determine if we make things worse or better. Sometimes silence is our best tool. Sometimes it’s just saying what’s on our heart so they see the hurt within us. Very rarely is the spontaneous attack mode the best option.
DARKNESS: It was necessary for Jesus to go through this “hour of darkness” in order to accomplish God’s will. Jesus could have stopped it at any time but knew it was necessary to go through this dark period of time. When you are in that time of darkness, instead of fighting to get out of it, seek God asking him to teach you what is necessary for your life. Remember, God’s will be done, not yours. His plan is the best.
