One Side or the Other
By Toni Babcock
Most of us are familiar with the axiom "we are all teachers". Whether we acknowledge it or not, someone in our life is learning something from our words, our actions, or our example. As a Christian, I can apply this same principle to the belief we are all surrendered. We may not acknowledge we are surrendered, but invariably we come out on one side or the other. We are either for Christ and gathering increase for his kingdom, or for something else. Jesus said, "He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth," (Luke 11:23 KJV). Not too much latitude for wiggle room there!
Yet, consider the largeness of heart Jesus possesses in the following passage when John complained, "Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward," (Mark 9:38-41 KJV). What a generous Spirit our Lord possessed toward one whose surrender was perhaps less than perfect - at least in the eyes of his disciples.
I am so thankful I can commit my way unto Jesus knowing He acknowledges every word, every action, and every deed done in His name, right down to the simple act of sharing a glass of water. He acknowledges my surrender to Him (imperfect as it may be) and is willing to use me anyway.
