MORE LESSONS FROM THE LEPER

March 21, 2018

Matthew 8:4     

“And Jesus said to him, ‘See that you tell no one; but go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.’”

Here are two lessons we can learn from Jesus’ instruction to the healed leper. The first instruction was in Jesus’ statement, “See that you tell no one.” Jesus never wanted cheap fame. Jesus knew who He was and cheap fame added no value to His worth whatsoever. So, Jesus instructed the man not to go around publicizing the healing. The second instruction was in Jesus’ statement to, “Show yourself to the priest.” The priests were the ones with the authority and responsibility to certify if a leper had become healed or not. To be cleared from the stigma of his leprosy, it was needful that he was certified free by the certifying authorities. Jesus allowed confirmation to the miracle.

What can I learn from these? Don’t choose cheap popularity. Don’t use the grace of God to raise your personal profile. Don’t use God to become somebody in yourself. Flee cheap fame and don’t use the work of God for self-promotion. And when God has done a miracle, verify the miracle. Don’t be afraid to test the work of God. If indeed God has done a work, then it can withstand any level of scrutiny from any source. Don’t fear the scrutiny of the world concerning your work. If your work is of God, it will survive.

“Father, I will not use You to elevate my profile. Lord, I refuse to chase after or accept cheap popularity. I know You have called me, and You will work through me, but I don’t need the praise of men because of Your working through me. And whatever You do Lord, teach me to have confidence that You will back it up. Help me not to seek to protect Your name by refusing to let Your deeds come under public scrutiny. This I ask, in Jesus name. Amen.”

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