How can we trust God's instructions when they seem unusual, like in Mark 11:2? Setting the Scene “ ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and as soon as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here.’ ” (Mark 11:2) Why This Command Feels Unusual • The disciples are told to take someone else’s animal without prior permission. • They receive sparse details—no name, no address, only a colt. • The instruction contradicts normal social customs and personal comfort zones. God Often Guides Through Surprising Steps • Noah built an ark on dry land (Genesis 6:14). • Abraham left home “not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). • Naaman washed seven times in the Jordan for healing (2 Kings 5:10). • Peter lowered nets when fishing all night had failed (Luke 5:4–6). Four Solid Reasons We Can Trust Such Guidance 1. God’s flawless knowledge – “Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit.” (Psalm 147:5) – He sees every angle we cannot. 2. God’s proven track record – “Not one word has failed of all His good promises.” (1 Kings 8:56) – History of fulfilled prophecy and personal testimonies confirm His reliability. 3. God’s consistent character – “God is not a man, that He should lie.” (Numbers 23:19) – His moral perfection guarantees that His commands are never capricious. 4. God’s ultimate purpose in Christ – Jesus’ triumphal entry on that colt fulfilled Zechariah 9:9. – Obeying the odd directive placed Jesus openly as Messiah, advancing redemption. Practical Steps for Embracing Unusual Instructions • Compare the directive with Scripture—God never contradicts Himself. • Seek the Spirit’s confirmation—He “guides you into all truth” (John 16:13). • Take the next small step—obedience often unfolds progressively. • Remember past faithfulness—journal or recount answered prayers. • Expect God to be glorified—“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Fruit That Follows Trusting Obedience • Deeper intimacy with the Lord—obedience draws us closer (John 14:21). • Growth in faith—each step builds confidence for the next (Romans 1:17). • Blessing to others—the colt’s owner shared in prophecy fulfilled. • Public witness—people saw Christ as King riding that colt; our obedience can showcase Him today. Living It Out Today When a directive from God’s Word or a Spirit-prompted nudge seems unconventional, remember Mark 11:2. The same Lord still speaks, still leads, still proves Himself faithful. Trust His heart, follow His voice, and watch His purposes unfold. |
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