Luke 11:28 – Follow-Through

^“Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 11:28)

What happens to the people who don’t “hear” the word of God? Are their blessings limited or non-existent? I can’t answer that, but I do believe that is why Jesus wanted us to be sharing the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Everyone should have the opportunity to hear God’s word, God’s message to the world. Those who scoff at it are missing out by their own choice. It’s those people who have never heard it or truly listened that break my heart.

Context (Luke 11:14-28): Shouldn’t we listen to what Jesus told us about the Bible? To His first audience, Jesus had just been teaching about evil spirits and opposition by those who don’t follow Him. Suddenly, Jesus was interrupted by a woman wanting to bless him, or Jesus’ mother actually. The mystery woman must have been moved by Jesus’ wisdom concerning the evil one. Our memory verse is Jesus’ response to her. What a beautiful way to segue from his previous discussion!

If Jesus was talking about way to combat evil in our lives, what better way that to stand on Word of God. This was the very weapon Paul talked about as part of the armor of God. The sword of the Spirit, he called it, is the Word of God. We can defend ourselves against anything, even the world’s lies, by hearing and putting into practice what we read.

When we devour the Word of God and digest its contents as direction for our lives, Jesus says we’re blessed. Do we often find ourselves ignoring the teachings so we can do what we want? Sadly, I think there are people would answer, “Yes,” to that. I’ve heard rationalizations that say, that isn’t what God intended, or that’s outdated information. The Bible is the Bible, and I choose to listen to Jesus. The extra blessing is just an added bonus.

It’s about follow-through. We don’t just read the Bible, we put it into practice. What does that mean? We don’t ignore what we read. If Jesus says to love others, we actually love them and forget about lip service. If Paul says that love isn’t envious, boastful, or rude, then we shouldn’t be treating our loved ones in that manner.

Isaiah 1:17 says, “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” I am so privileged to be able to work with orphans here in Mexico at La Ola Girls’ Home. It’s a double blessing to be able to prayerfully support my widow friend who runs that very same orphanage. I can testify to how God’s love continuously pours out for these precious ones. Witnessing how God moves to protect and provide always amazes me. By sharing my faith and loving on them, I feel Jesus’ hands reaching from heaven and using me.

How are you living out God’s word? That’s what Jesus is encouraging us to do here. Hear (or read) and do! What can you do to help those who haven’t heard or read? The Bible says to make disciples, and that’s one thing we can do. Pray about the disciples you’ll be making next.

Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for all the blessings I see around me. I know that you care for all your children. You have given us your word so that we can be given instruction for life. Help me do a better job of follow-through and putting into practice the truth of your word. Continue to fill me and draw me closer to you each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.