Let’s Take a Closer Look at Jesus’ Example

Bible Reference: Luke 6:12-16 KJV

12 And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;

14 Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,

15 Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,

16 And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.

Every time you read through the Bible, you’ll be able to glean new golden nuggets.  Last week, when I read the reference above (Luke 6:12-16), I gleaned a nugget that caught my attention.

Let’s backtrack slightly…

Jesus had just started his outreach ministry here on earth around 30 years of age (Luke 3:23).

>> Jesus’ example for us: Prepare and wait on God. God’s timing is always perfect.  God opens the doors of opportunity at just the right time!

The Truth: The Devil knew what a powerful impact Jesus would have on this earth. He will try over and over again to throw us off track and get us to fall so that we cannot serve God to our full purpose and potential.

We see that Satan tempted Jesus 40 days (Luke 4:2) to bring his ministry to failure. Have you ever thought what a LONG 40 days that was for Jesus!?!  (Feeling guilty here — How many times have I felt depressed about having one lousy day!)  

>> Jesus’ example for us: Each time Jesus was tempted, He used God’s Mighty Word as a weapon against Satan. (Luke 4)  We can do this as well when we have invested enough time reading and memorizing God’s Word! (Keep your weapons sharp and ready to use!)

Next, we see that Jesus’ fame starts to grow through his teachings and miracles. (Luke 4:14) (Luke 4:37)

> Jesus’ example for us: We only see Jesus glorify our Heavenly Father and point others to Him! Jesus never got a big head as his fame spread. He made himself a servant to others, even though He was the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! His humility is an example to behold!

In Luke 5, we see that Jesus gains disciples and followers.

>> Jesus’ example for us: As leaders in the Christian ministry, we want to encourage and inspire others to follow Jesus!  We see that Jesus didn’t decide to be a loner…and do it all Himself. He created a team to help Him accomplish the work that needed to be done.

We can learn so much from Jesus’ example…

In Luke 6, we see that Jesus gets prepared to make some important decisions. In doing so, He continued ALL night in prayer!  (Luke 6:12) And when it was day, he chose 12 specific disciples to help him fulfill his ministry and purpose here on earth. (Luke 6:13)

That’s the nugget God had for me when I read Luke 6:12 >> I’m wondering how many times I’ve made important decisions and didn’t invest enough time into prayer? OUCH!

Jesus gave you and I an example of investing much time in prayer! How are we able to feel that we can get by with so much less?

This morning, I also read a reference in the book of Nehemiah which again reaffirmed the importance of fasting and praying that our great heroes of faith demonstrated.

“And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven,”  (Nehemiah 1:4)

Today, let me encourage your to renew your commitment to following Jesus’ example in every aspect of your life. And I especially want to encourage you to spend more time in prayer as you make daily decisions.  Include God in ALL of your decisions, both small and great! 

God bless you and your family,

Rhonda White

“For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.”  John 13:15 KJV