In Mark 2 we have a very familiar story and one that we might often gloss over. A few of the points I would like you to consider in the story of the paralytic are as follows:
- Four men were taking another to Christ. As we asked last week, are we leading, or taking people to Christ? Are we doing it alone, or with others? I think sometimes it is easy for us to think we are the only person witnessing or sharing with a person. Are there other believers involved? Are other people praying? Do we realize the Holy Spirit may be working in the individual we are concerned about?
- How committed are we to others when it comes to helping someone? When it is about bringing someone to the Lord? The four showed great commitment and where not stopped by obstructions they faced in getting the man to Christ. We can look at their example in how committed we are to others.
- The five were looking for a healing. They got that, but also received so much more when the paralytic’s sins were forgiven. I believe God wants to do so much more in our own lives if we will just ask and seek HIS will. Too often, we limit God.We put him in a box. He is so powerful, wonderful, mighty…………and we fail to go to Him. We can take care of things, we can let God be God to some other person……….how pathetic!!!!!
- Finally, I personally love verse 12….”they praised God”, some versions, “God was glorified.” We often think everything is about us. The healing was great, the forgiveness was better, but GOD RECEIVED GLORY. Guys, isn’t that what it is all about?
I pray that this week God will work in your lives in a mighty way. In the good and bad of our lives may we all pray that God is glorified!!!!!!