Devo, John

From Cryptic Conversations to Clarity Of God’s Mission

From Cryptic Conversations to Clarity Of God's Mission

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2023 FALL MEN'S RETREAT

I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father. — John 16:25

So Jesus is changing the conversation. If we turn back in the Gospel (John 10:6), we learn that Jesus spoke intentionally in a cryptic way at times. He did this because He understood that the disciples and his opposition could not handle knowing the whole truth about him before critical events occurred. But, if we go back in this Gospel and read a few of the cryptic statements, we will see what Jesus knew they could not handle:

  1. In John 10:1-18, Jesus spoke about the Good Shepherd. He used this analogy to talk about himself compared to the self-righteous religious leaders and teachers whom he describes as thieves and robbers.
  2. In John 13:1-20, which is the instance of foot washing, Jesus used this as an object lesson to speak about the importance of going low to serve all, even those who would betray them, which was an allusion to the ultimate act of service — death on the Cross.
  3. In John 15:1-17, Jesus spoke about the vine and branches. Jesus used this to call them to abide in his teaching and in everything he has commanded.

Each of these teachings had a cryptic nature to them because there were certain things at that moment that he knew people would only understand after his death and resurrection. This tells why Jesus spoke this way.

He didn't want anyone getting in the way of his mission — this includes believers or non-believers.

So here are two thoughts that crossed my mind as I thought about what Jesus said here. First, there is nothing as resolved and determined as a man on a mission from God. Nothing and no one can stop that man. He will work to preserve and protect that mission so that God's message can be heard. Second, as that man sees the culmination of this mission, his message will always becomes more urgent and clear, just like Jesus's did.

We are no different. We are called to live the same way. As messengers of the mission should speak and live with the same intention. We should discern when to be a little cryptic and when to be more plain. The mission requires both. But over time, the message should become more focused, get clearer, and our commitment should increase and become more resolved.

Today, challenge yourself to do the same. Identify the message God has given to you. Write it out if need be. Then ask the Spirit for clarity and courage to communicate and carry it out. And then go speak it and live it out with conviction. Let nothing deter you. Your mission, God's mission through you, awaits.

ASK THIS:

  1. What is your God-given mission, and how are you sharpening your focus as you draw closer to your goal?
  2. How can you discern when to speak plainly and when to be more cryptic in your pursuit of God's calling?
  3. Are you letting anything deter you from your calling? How can you strengthen your resolve to ensure that your commitment to God's mission is unwavering?

DO THIS: Write out the message God gave for his mission.

PRAY THIS: Lord Jesus, guide me in discerning Your truth and the right timing to communicate Your mission in my life. Strengthen my resolve and clarity so I may speak and live with conviction, never deterred from the path You've set before me. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Be Thou My Vision.

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40 thoughts on “From Cryptic Conversations to Clarity Of God’s Mission”

  6. Dustin essar says:

    Absolutely amazing daily’s use them everyday. Love the break down.
    Piney Manitoba Canada
    Dustin Essar

    Reply
  8. Had Christopherson says:

    Chad Christopherson
    Naches, Washington

    Love this Men’s Devo. It is a daily part of my life! I share it with other men all the time!

    Reply
  10. Mark Becker says:

    Worland WY
    As our mission to share His love and life with others there are so many times we have to start simple and share our own testimony to get the conversation started
    Thank you Jesus🙌🙌

    Reply
  19. Jesse G Skytland says:

    God’s mission does await for me. Now God, please guide me in my marriage.
    Jesse Skytland ~ Baraboo, WI

    Reply
  20. Ruben T. Garcia, Sr says:

    Amen, clerity in our mission is of vital importance and staying on that mission for the LORD.
    Ruben T. Garcia, S.
    Gresham, Oregon

    Reply
  26. Jeff Falley says:

    I believe I have been called to the Men’s ministry of our church. As of right now I facilitate a Fall, Winter and Spring Mens Saturday morning Bible class.

    Reply
  28. John Garrison says:

    Had to listen to this one twice today – keep challenging us, we need it.

    John Garrison
    Eden, NC

    Reply
  31. Jon C. says:

    These devotionals are a part of my quiet time each morning. Thank you so much Vince. Jon Creel. Bossier City La.

    Reply
  32. Michael Roberto says:

    I have no calling. I have no message. I have no purpose. If I wrong about this what do I do to change.

    Reply
    • Gregg says:

      Michael, you may not know it but you maybe have someone wanting to be like you as you are living your life as the example Christ gave us. That is a great purpose. Here’s a verse, Jeremiah 29:11

      Reply
    • Trent says:

      I struggle to see mine most days as well. Until you see a specific purpose or what have ya, focus on seeking God. Following Christ. Spreading the gospel with your words and actions. I believe our purpose will come. Or we may just see we have been filling it all along. Love God. Love your neighbor. Don’t stress. All in His time. Keep fighting.

      Reply
  34. Peter Field says:

    Yea it’s Miller time . I do look forward to the devotion every morning .
    Peter Field
    Halifax N.S. Canada

    Reply

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