Are You Willing?

There are many times in life when we’re presented with a challenge where we have to make a decision. Someone or something is before us with an offer basically saying, “Are you willing?” Let’s look at a few from the Bible.

Simon Cyrene – “they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry the cross.” Matthew 27:32). As Jesus was trudging to Calvary, Simon was command to carry the heavy cross. Was he willing to do that? Yes he was and he is in the Bible.

Naaman – “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” (2 Kings 5:10). Naaman had leprosy and was told by the prophet Elisha, “Are you willing” to go dip in the river Jordan seven times to be healed. He was angry at first but finally relented and WAS healed.

Abraham – “The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” (Genesis 12:1). God had a plan for His people which required Abraham to do something drastic. Abraham was willing and the rest is our history.

Disciples – “Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19). Jesus saw Peter and Andrew fishing and made them an offer. It sounded crazy but they were willing and joined Jesus’ team.

Marriage – The pastor asks, “Do you, (are you willing) to take _____ to be your husband/wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.”  I do!

Jesus – “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” (1 John 4:9). Jesus was willing!

Us – The man with leprosy asked Jesus if He was willing.  “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.” (Matthew 8:3).

Today, whatever need you have, especially salvation, Jesus is here saying, “Are you willing?” “Come, today is your day.”