Take it by force!

What do you think about the following verses?

1. "From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force." - Matthew 11:12

What kind of violence is this?

2. "The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone forces his way into it." - Luke 16:16

Who is forcing their way into the kingdom of God?

3. "For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." - Matthew 13:12

What is Jesus talking about? What is that these folks have that he is giving more of and taking more away from?

4. "Every branch of mine that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit." - John 15:2

Who likes getting their life pruned? Who doesn't like getting a greater harvest?

5. "But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" James 4:6

What is God's definition of "proud" - how about "humble" - and tell me again how do I get more grace?

I would like to sum all of this up with another couple of questions... consider these and tell me what you think:
1. What do we call the people that are the first to jump into a new idea that costs them everything?
2. Why would people risk everything with the promise of being treated poorly?
3. What do you have that you want more of? Less of?
4. What are you holding on to? What do you not want to sacrifice?
5. What area of your life needs more of God and less of self?

The business world calls people willing to try a new product, risking financial and personal safety, early adopters. What are spiritual early adopters? These people are from every walk of life, they are poor, hurting, and lonely; rich, happy, and have loads of friends... but they all recognize a great opportunity. And with great opportunity comes great risk!

God is asking us to trust him, to step out in faith and share in his life. Jesus had a great life, sure he died a horrible death, but look at the victorious new life!

Are you forcing your way into an increasingly deeper relationship with God?