Being a Fool for God

In my struggle toward a mature Christian faith, there is a statement made by Jesus in Jerusalem that has often convicted me and never fails to challenge me. Here it is: “How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God?” (John 5:44 NKJ).

I’ve spent hours pondering this verse because I think it cuts to the heart of the problem so many of us have. And I’m not talking merely about a problem of ineffective faith, but of missing out on the joy and power that comes from an all-out relationship with Jesus Christ.

One obstacle to such a relationship is the importance we place on the approval of our friends and associates. Are we willing to risk such approval by taking a stand for our beliefs?

The issue is summed up in a frighteningly brusque statement by the Apostle James: “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God?” (James 4:4)

The question arises, “Why is it obnoxious to God that we make the approval of our peer group the criterion of our conduct?” The answer, I believe, is that when we make our decisions this way, self is at the center of our life instead of God. And this self-centeredness will block us from God’s power and love.

How do we find the glory that comes from one God? I believe it comes through obedience to Him. This is not easy because it means we have to establish communication with the Lord through daily prayer.

I do this by beginning each day with a time of reading (usually from the Bible) and prayer in which I ask for His guidance. From then on, during the day if something pops into my mind – perhaps a simple household chore or the name of a person to call or write – I stop what I’m doing and take the action that He seems to want. If I’m confused – and the action suggested seems a bit far out – I’ll check the guidance with my husband, my mother, or a close friend, and together we’ll pray for further illumination.

But I’ve learned that when I disregard these “inner nudges,” I am the loser. It’s not enough, of course, just to experiment with being obedient to God. It has to be a total decision of one’s will. And if you read through the New Testament, it is obvious to His friends and enemies alike that Jesus had but one criterion for action – the will of His Father for Him. They said of Him once, “Teacher, we know You are straight in what You say and teach. You do not look to human favor, but teach the way of God honestly.” (Luke 20:21, Moffatt translation)

Christ obviously expected every one of His disciples in that day (and in this) to have the same standard of action: “What does God want me to do today? Am I willing, if necessary, to be a fool for His sake?”