“At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.””
Luke 4:42-43 NIV
In order for us to be effective in our daily efforts, we must realize that there are certain forces that can motivate us. I like to think that there are two primary factors that can motivate us in our lives and our situations: priorities or pressure. Priorities we establish, we place on the top of our list of things to do. Pressure comes from others and what they want and desire.
In these verses today, they show Jesus staying focused on what were his priorities, his calling. Even though Jesus faced tremendous pressure in his ministry, he remained very balanced and compassionate. The crowds of people seeking his miracles- his words did not dictate his actions nor his intentions.
We can learn a great deal from such a focus. Our lives can be filled with a lot of pressure at times like money problems or sickness. We must learn to keep our eyes on the prize of Jesus and his directions to us day by day. Although difficult, we should not be moved by outside pressures but motivated by the priorities we have gained in our life through Christ Jesus.
Keep that kingdom view Jesus has given us, and be about the work he has called us to and not be conformed to the pressure of the world!
In Christ
RJ