Jesus is talking behind your back When John the Baptist was processing his depression and despair in Matthew 11, Jesus sent him a pretty straightforward message. In summary, Jesus reminded John of the validity of His ministry as the Christ, and commanded him to persevere. You can read the whole response in Matthew 11:1-6 . I’m sure it brought limited consolation to John, and maybe even felt a little cold or callous. But after John’s messengers left, Jesus started talking about John to the crowd. Keep in mind, John wouldn’t have heard any of this part. Jesus starts saying all kinds of terrific things about John behind his back. He even gives him the distinction of being the greatest man ever born of a woman (Matthew 11:11). Pretty high accolades coming from the Son of God. But these words would never reach the ears of John the Baptist. Because Jesus didn’t intend for John to hear them. When John died and entered into eternity, I wonder if he read John 11:11 and thought: Why didn’t you say so, Jesus? It would have been nice to know how much you thought of me while I was rotting in prison. I guess Jesus wanted John to place his confidence in the character of God rather than affirmations sent by human messenger. You may be in a similar spot today. It’s been a long time since anyone told you: Good job. I’m proud of you. You’re making a difference. Perhaps Jesus is talking about you behind your back. He’s proud of you. He sees potential in you. He’s accomplishing far-reaching, logic defying purposes through you. Stay faithful. Even if it doesn’t seem like God is speaking directly to you. There will come a day when all of your labor in the Lord will be rewarded openly. It’s not in vain.
Share and Enjoy: Pastor Steven Furtick is the Lead Pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina.
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