Don’t Dispute, Follow God’s Truths In All Things

Scripture

Our verse for today comes from John 6:52, ” The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, ‘How can this man give us His flesh to eat?’ “

Background

We all are familiar with the saying, ” The older you get, the wiser you become. ” And I think that each of us can think of people (hopefully that list includes our self) who have proven that age has its benefits. Another posting I came across read, ” I don’t have gray hair, I have wisdom highlights. ” And we would like to think that as our hair changes color, or departs its residence atop our heads, we are maturing in ways other than the physical. But one quote I found speaks to the other side of the aisle when it comes to those who are advancing in years, and it says, ” As you get older, you don’t get wiser. You get irritable. ” And I mention this perspective because in some very real and recurring ways, I am that person. I am certainly wiser than I was a half a life ago, but recently, whether it be the house, the kids, my wife, or just the condition of the moment, I am far too annoyed and aggravated by things that have little to no importance. Generally, the irritation passes rather quickly, and few have witnessed my exasperation, but my beloved family members are far too familiar with the specks that become logs in my eyes. If you have wrestled with this particular sinful bent, then you know the inclination for pointless arguments and incessant needling. Almost anything can become a point of contention.

Application

I wonder if the Jews saw themselves this way when they were confronted by the truths of Jesus. If He spoke for one thing or against another, they argued for just the opposite. If He promoted grace, they spouted the law. If He quoted the law, they clamored for grace. In my struggles, there are many times when I taste victory, and I think that the giant has been slain for good. But then I am waylaid by my agenda, and once again I taste that familiar bile of sin and regret. Then, my only recourse is confession and repentance, and a pleading for God’s grace, mercy, and boundless help. If you stumble over your all too familiar stumbling block today, join me in crying out to God. And cling to the hope that greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.

Charge

As we seek Him today, choose not to dispute, and ask God to have His way with you.