18/12/2016
FULL PARTICIPATION FOR MAXIMUM BENEFIT
Matthew 14:13-22, Mark 8:1-9
The Retreat is going to be a moment of unforgettable encounter. Spectacular and abundant blessings will be our portion as we gather unto the Lord (Ezekiel 34:26; I Corinthians 2:9, 10).
The Lord has made all things ready. He has provided in abundance all things that pertain unto life and godliness (II Peter 1:3). There will be abundant salvation, healing, deliverance, holiness and power. He will saturate our lives with heavenly blessings. An end has come to tyranny of the devil in the lives of people. Therefore, this opportunity should not be wasted on end of year activities, business and commercial engagements, and marriage ceremonies.
1. COMMITMENT OF SINCERE SEEKERS
Matthew 14:13;15:32; Mark 6:31-33; I Kings 10:1-6,13; Acts 8:26-39; John 12:20-23; Jeremiah 29:11-13; Psalms 63:1,2; 27:4,8; Isaiah 45:19,22; Matthew 6:33.
Our text reveals to us the sterling quality of great commitment in the lives of the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. Their commitment was reflected as follows: (i) They followed the Lord on foot out of the cities (verse 13) (ii) They were in the desert place outside the conveniences of their homes (verse 15) (iii) They made grasses their seats (verse 19) (iv) The passage suggests also, that regular meals were not served (v) Children and youth were in Jesus’ Retreat in the wilderness.
The sacrifice and focussed disposition of these retreat participants induced the compassion of Jesus and He healed their sick. It follows from the foregoing that the Lord expects every sincere seeker to demonstrate the same commitment by (a) residing with Christ at the camp (not off and on) (b) looking away from normal temporary inconveniences (c) giving full attention and obedience to the word of Christ (d) being focussed on their individual needs and praying for God’s touch on same (e) if need be individuals may decide to wait on the Lord. If all participants will adhere to these scriptural advice, they will not miss the Lord’s visitation like the unstable Thomas (John 20:24-25).
2. THE COMPASSION OF SUFFICIENT SAVIOUR
Matthew 14:14; Psalms 78:38;111:4-6;145:8-12; Matthew 20:34; Mark 1:40-42; 6:33,34; Luke 7:11-17;15:17-22; Exodus 3:7,8; Deuteronomy 30:1-6.
The Saviour’s compassion reached out to the participants who attended the Lord’s retreat in the wilderness. The all-sufficient God healed all the sick and provided for these diligent seekers (Hebrews 11:6; John 6:37).
The Saviour as usual will be mightily present to meet all needs at the Retreat through His compassionate love. He will heal the sick, deliver the oppressed, save penitent sinners, revive the lukewarm and will not overlook anyone who in faith will call upon the Lord. To enjoy the benefits offered by the Retreat, come to Christ in full assurance of faith (Hebrews 4:15-16; Philippians 4:19) and seek Him with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:11-13).
3. COOPERATION FOR SUPERNATURAL SUPPLY
Matthew 14:16-22; Mark 3:1-5; Exodus 15:26; 2 Kings 5:10-14; Job 36:11; Isaiah 1:19; Jeremiah 7:23; John 2:1-11; 9:1-7; 11:39-44.
For the Lord to supply abundantly “all your need according to His riches in glory”, there must be divine-human partnership. It is expected that you cooperate with God and His appointed servants who will be sent to convey His love to you (2 Chronicles 20:20).
The Lord expects obedience to His word and various instructions that will bring the blessings of God to you. Obedience brings blessing. Disobedience attracts the wrath of God. Whatsoever the Lord says to you, do it.
Keep your children in their camp, be wholly available for the meeting, pray in faith, remove every barrier and God will abundantly bless you.
GHS: 11, 70 & 16