No Stubborn Mules Allowed
Scripture:
"Opening his mouth, Peter said: 'I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him.'" - Acts 10:34-35
"While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message. All the circumcised believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also." - Acts 10:44-45
"Therefore, accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us to the glory of God." - Romans 15:7
Cowboy Wisdom:
Peter had to make a choice: hold onto his prejudices or obey God. He chose obedience, and it changed history. That one decision opened the door for the Gospel to spread to every nation, tribe, and tongue—including you and me.
Are we stubborn like Peter was? Do we have excuses for why we won't share Jesus with certain people? "They're too far gone." "They wouldn't be interested." "They're not like us." Those are just fancy ways of saying what Peter said: "By no means, Lord." But when Peter finally obeyed and went to Cornelius's house, he witnessed the Holy Spirit fall on Gentiles just as He had on the Jews at Pentecost. The proof was undeniable—God accepts people from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.
God shows no favoritism. Neither should we. Our job isn't to judge who's worthy—it's to be witnesses. Every person we meet is someone Jesus died for. That ought to change everything. We need to reach out to all people with the Gospel, both here at home and abroad. Stop making excuses. Stop being stubborn as a mule when it comes to inviting people to church or telling them about Jesus. Let go of your preconceived notions. Your job is to be a witness for the kingdom—God will handle the rest.
"A stubborn mule won't budge even when you're leading him to water. Don't be a mule when God's leading you to share His love with somebody who needs it."
Questions for Reflection:
Who has God been prompting you to reach out to that you've been avoiding?
What excuses have you been making for not sharing your faith?
How can you actively step out in obedience this week to be a witness for Christ?
Prayer Focus:
Confess any stubbornness or disobedience in sharing the Gospel. Ask God to make you bold, willing, and obedient. Pray specifically for opportunities to share Christ with someone this week, and ask for the courage to take them.
