Luke 9:1-6

Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. And He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither staffs nor bag nor bread nor money; and do not have two tunics apiece.

“Whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. And whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them.”

So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.

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Luke 9:1-6 tells the story of Jesus calling His disciples and commissioning them to go and preach the kingdom of God. Take a moment to read the text. The call of God comes to many today as a pulling of emotions in the heart. It may begin as an intense feeling of compassion for a particular place or people, a compelling of the heart, or a confirmation of direction from a godly elder. Too many stop after hearing God’s call because they are uncertain about the next step. However, Jesus is not only calling us to follow Him, but inviting us to a relationship with Him. Relationship results from God’s calling; it is the basis of all work done in His kingdom. At some point, this relationship must transition to observable actions. Jesus had previously taught His disciples by healing the sick and giving real-life examples. In Luke 9, Jesus presented them with opportunity to put His calling into action. Is He calling you? Where and how can you put His calling into action today? Is there a Bible study to teach or a friend who is hurting? Do not just offer them yourself; give them Jesus!

That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.

WORD OF PRAYER

Lord Jesus, We pray that You will call us to work in Your kingdom. We pray that our hands will be busy doing Your work, and that You will provide direction, strength, wisdom, and knowledge as we pursue Your kingdom. Please lead us away from distractions that steal our time, and let burden for Your work saturate our souls. Let us find deeper relationship with You as we do all we can! Until you come again, draw us closer to You!

In the name of Jesus, amen!