Don’t Argue

Anyone that knows me know I am a huge fan of The Chosen. I have encouraged many to watch. It has taken me to a whole new level in my faith, reminding me Jesus and His followers were just like us. They had family problems just as we do. They struggled to make a living and pay Roman taxes. They laughed and cried; lived and died. The only difference is the time period. The Pharisees and Sadducees vied for control, tearing the heart out of the Jewish faith. They burdened the people adding law upon law even though they already had 613 laws and numerous prayers about every aspect of every day. They endured Roman persecution on a daily basis, struggling to pay taxes. We tend to forget the disciples were human, too.

During Season 2, Episode 1 of the series, James and John successfully performs a task set by Jesus. They’re feeling pretty good about themselves since Jesus commended them in the presence of all the followers about the wonderful job they had done. Naturally, James and John thought Jesus has put them in a place of authority, especially after they are given a second task.

So, as pride often does, they’re feeling pretty good about themselves and take the liberty to create an agenda for Jesus’ ministry, except they failed to consult Jesus about their plans. Jesus’ only agenda was to spread the word of salvation; to heal the sick and lame and give hope to all people. However, His disciples often felt He wasn’t doing what they thought He should do. While Jesus takes a walk seeking solitude to pray and consult with the Father, James and John present their ‘plan’ to the others to which there is an immediate uproar. John comments, “I’m not ok arguing about where we’re going every day” to which Thaddaeus replies, “So, don’t argue”.  … Mic dropped.

Have you ever argued with God? Come on, I know you have. He wants you to forgive someone who hurt you, but you just don’t want to. He wants you to witness to someone you don’t know, and, once again, you argue with Him. What happens when you argue with God? He disciplines you. I know; I’ve been there, too. God’s plans are higher than we can imagine. We follow Him, not the other way around.

Following Jesus is not easy. Many people think once they get saved, everything is in order and life will be a breeze. But it’s not; life is hard. God continues to mold us into what He wants us to be, and sometimes it can be very painful. We resist and argue, but once we surrender completely, we wonder why we resisted in the first place. There is such a peace beyond understanding when we just simply give in.

The next time you begin arguing with God, remember we are following His plan … and don’t argue.