June 3 Edify Devotional

Today’s Devotional Theme      Don't Despise Small Beginnings   Daily Scripture Mark 1:17 “And Jesus said to them [His new disciples], ‘Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.’” Encouragement  “God, give me patience, and give it to me now!” We’ve all heard this old quote, and perhaps said it ourselves. But becoming mature kingdom workers takes time. When we’re saved, an instant and miraculous transformation happens, but following up is a growing process. After three-plus years of walking in the dust of the greatest disciple-maker the world will ever see, Jesus’ students still didn’t fully “get it.” It took the work of God’s Spirit poured out on them to “cinch the deal.” To truly change, most of us have to start small. The key is not to get discouraged and give up. Are you progressing in your discipleship? Can you see a little day-to-day or week-to-week improvement? Then thank God for your progress and keep your eye on the prize. And thank God we can rejoice as we progress on our journey! Apply God’s Word I’m no genius. I’m like Peter – a slow learner. But when Peter finally “got it,” he became a key mover in the early church. We see the transformed Peter preaching to the crowds of fellow Jews in Acts chapters 2 and 3. (Come to think of it, Peter perhaps was a genius after all!) Let’s look at two key exhortations in today’s scripture: “Follow me,” and “I will make you…” The word “follow” is the Greek imperative deute. The essential meaning is “Come with me!” It’s more a command than a request. We see an equivalent in 2 Kings 6:19, where Elisha says, “Follow me!” to a group of Syrians that had been struck blind. The phrase “make you become” implies a process, not an instant transformation. Another way to say it: I will remake you so that you will learn to become fishers of men. We’ve been remade. Our journey with Jesus is underway. Let’s march down that road with focus and enthusiasm! Come into His Presence Lord God, give us patience to persevere. Giving up is not a viable option. Let us keep our eye on the prize at the end of the road. Let us appreciate the progress we’ve made but never say, ‘I’ve gone far enough.’ Help us to envision the victories that lie yet ahead. In Jesus’ Name, amen. Mark Bacon Teacher & Mentor Email Mark

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