If you want to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, observe the following things about Him:
(1) He never acted in haste. He didnt make decisions in response to the pressure tactics of others. Skilled negotiators know that waiting is a weapon; whoever is the most hurried usually ends up with the short end of the deal. Waiting reveals the weakness in any plan, plus the motives of those around you. Your greatest mistakes will often happen because of impatience, so think long term.
(2) He knew when to work and when to rest. In the storm on the Sea of Galilee the disciples sweated, but Jesus slept. In the garden of Gethsemane the disciples slept, but Jesus sweated. Thats because He knew when to work and when to rest. Knowing when to act and when to trust, what to give your attention to and what to leave in Gods hands, is a secret you must learn if youre to do Gods will and not burn out. Nobody was busier than Jesus. Share Your Life
Everybody wanted something from Him. The more successful you are the more people will reach for you. Jesus separated Himself in order to receive. He understood that you cant give what you dont have. Work means giving; rest means receiving. Jesus understood the balance; thats why He accomplished so much in three short years. When youre rested you think more clearly, you make better decisions, you see life through confident eyes, you accomplish more in less time, and what you build is built to last. So stop your frantic rush. Following in the footsteps of Jesus means being led, not driven!
Jesus knew He didnt have to prove Himself. At the cross, sceptics said, If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross. (Matthew 27:40) His reaction? He refused to let their comments intimidate Him or alter His plans. He didnt need their approval; He already had His Fathers: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Matthew 3:17) Critics, Coaches, Cheerleaders
Jesus didnt waste time answering His critics. Jesus made no reply, not even to a single chargeto the great amazement of the governor. (Matthew 27:14) Jesus responded to hunger, to need, to seekers, but not to people trying to trap Him. You owe nothing to a critic. Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words. (Proverbs 23:9)
Do you know why theres never been a monument built to a critic? Because critics are spectators, not players! Jesus didnt focus on the past, but the future. His mother was pregnant with Him before she was married. Only a few people knew the truth. Jesus grew up with this, yet He didnt feel the need to explain it. You Need Faith
Stop complaining that your family was poor, or talking about your limited education, or repeating stories of those who failed you, or advertising your pain, or meditating on your flaws. All of us are challenged in some way. Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing (Isaiah 43:18-19) Satan discusses our yesterdays; apparently thats the only information he has about us. Jesus discusses our tomorrows. So if you want to follow in His footsteps, focus on whats ahead.
More Reading: 1 Chronicles1-2, John 7:45-53
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