The more I read Scripture, the more I realize there is no such thing as "perfect Bible people" except, of course, for Jesus Himself. The disciples, for instance, were all people we can relate to in one aspect or another.
Thomas was full of questions. (John 14:5, 20:24-25)
Peter caved under pressure. (John 18:15-27)
James and John jockeyed for position (Matthew 20:21) - though they were by no means alone in this. (Luke 9:46, 22:24)
But can we relate to Judas? Our first instinct would be to say, "No!" but would that be accurate?
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| Photo courtesy of ruby_fire and photobucket |
Today, we define a Judas as "one who betrays another under the guise of friendship." (www.answers.com)
We think of Judas as evil incarnate, and he certainly was when satan entered into him (Luke 22:3), but what about before that? When Jesus announced to his disciples that one of them was about to betray Him, all eyes did not immediately turn to Judas. Instead, "they began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this." ~ Luke 22:23
Imagine living back in Jesus' day. The Jews were looking for a king, a military leader, someone who would overthrow the oppressive Roman regime. The disciples knew better than most that Jesus was the ideal candidate for the job. After all, they had seen Him feed thousands of people with the lunch of one boy (John 6:5-15) and bring the dead back to life (Luke 7:22, John 11:43-44). No wonder many thought He would be the ideal commander-in-chief. With a leader like that, the Romans wouldn't stand a chance.
The remorse shown by Judas after learning Jesus was condemned (Matthew 27:3-4) makes me wonder if harming Jesus was never his intention. Could it be that he just wanted to force His hand by putting Jesus in a position to defend himself (and reveal himself) when confronted by the Roman army?
Did Judas start out just being a guy who thought his way was better than Jesus' way?
Perhaps Judas was a take charge kind of guy who was going to make things happen when and how he thought they should happen.
Maybe he was an impatient guy who didn't want to sit around and do nothing while waiting for Jesus to act.
Did Judas start out just being a guy who thought his way was better than Jesus' way?
Perhaps Judas was a take charge kind of guy who was going to make things happen when and how he thought they should happen.
Maybe he was an impatient guy who didn't want to sit around and do nothing while waiting for Jesus to act.
A man with a plan.
Yikes! Now I can relate. How about you?
How often have you become impatient waiting for God to move?
When have you taken matters into your own hands - "helped God along" a little bit?
Do you consult God before making plans, or push ahead with your own agenda and invite God to catch up as an afterthought?
God knows absolutely everything. Relatively speaking, we know nothing so why do we think our way is going to be better than God's way?
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the LORD.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts. ~ Isaiah 55:8-9
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the LORD.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts. ~ Isaiah 55:8-9
Judas is an extreme example, but an example nonetheless. The next time I feel impatient with God's timing, I'm going to remember how that worked out for Judas.
Jesus, I can't begin to thank you for the work you did on the cross, paying the penalty for my sins. Forgive me for my impatience and help me to trust you and wait on your perfect timing.
Lisa
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excellent thoughts! thanks for sharing this....i too often plunge ahead with my plans....thanks for these reminders and LOVE the scriptures you've used!
What a great post! I've never looked at Judas in this light, but it is entirely possible...and unfortunately, relateable! As a ministry leader I try hard to keep in mind that we have to follow God's leading and not come up with plans we ask Him to bless after the fact - this is a good reminder to be diligent in my personal life as well!
another good post, Lisa. Thanks for your insights, challenging me to search my heart and intentions and not to get impatient.