Riding Against the Herd
Scripture:
Acts 11:1-3 (NASB95)
Now the apostles and the brethren who were throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those who were circumcised took issue with him, saying, "You went to uncircumcised men and ate with them."
Acts 10:27-28 (NASB95)
As he talked with him, he entered and found many people assembled. And he said to them, "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a man who is a Jew to associate with a foreigner or to visit him; and yet God has shown me that I should not call any man unholy or unclean."
Cowboy Wisdom:
Out on the range, sometimes the lead steer heads in the wrong direction, and the whole herd follows without thinking. A good cowboy knows when to break from the pack and do what's right, even when it kicks up dust with the rest of the crew. Peter knew he'd catch heat for eating with Gentiles, but he did what the Boss told him anyway. That takes more backbone than breaking a wild bronc.
When God calls you to do something that goes against the grain of what everyone expects, you've got a choice: play it safe with the crowd or saddle up and ride where He's leading. Peter chose obedience over approval, and it changed everything. The truth is, following Jesus has always meant being willing to look foolish in the eyes of the world. But there's a peace that comes from knowing you're on the right trail, even when everyone else is hollering at you to turn back. Remember, Peter went to Cornelius knowing full well what kind of trouble it would stir up back in Jerusalem. But he also knew that when God gives you clear orders, you don't get to pick and choose which ones to follow based on how popular they'll make you.
Questions for Reflection:
When was the last time you felt God asking you to do something that went against the expectations of others?
What "man-made rules" or traditions might be keeping you from reaching people who need Jesus?
Are you more concerned with keeping people happy or keeping God's commands?
Prayer Focus:
Lord, give me the courage to follow You even when it means riding against the herd. Help me to value Your approval more than the applause of others. Show me where my prejudices or traditions might be blocking Your work in my life.
