Hard Things Are Easier to Do
A man rode into Jerusalem on a donkey one Sunday morning. Crowds cheered him on, shouting “Hosanna, Hosanna!” “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13 AMP) It was a grand entrance for what seemed like an ordinary man. But he was not just any man. He was Jesus, known for causing controversy in the religious community and performing miracles like raising the dead. Why did He deserve such a response when the Maccabees who were notorious soldiers of their time, received similar praise for conquering territories and winning battles?
Because God told Him to come.
As Jesus rode in, looking at the faces of all the people in the town, praising His name and calling Him the King, He knew they really didn’t believe what they said. Jesus knew those smiles would soon turn to anger in support of His execution. Jesus had a difficult thing to do. In a week, He would be hanging on a cross, beaten, bleeding, and bruised for the sake of these same people. He knew He would look at their faces several yards above, chanting anger for His death. Yet, he remembered why he was doing this. He knew that their reaction wasn’t why He was there. He was the God-man on a mission. It was a part of His plan all along. Jesus knew that this difficult thing was to bring His children close to Him again.
Jesus didn’t let the noise of the people impact His decision; He stayed focused. He even begged the Father to forgive them. He knew it was the best thing for Him to do, whether the people believed it or not. God wanted to save His children; He yearned for intimacy with them. This was about God loving His children so much that He did what He knew was best, regardless of anyone's opinions. Jesus knew obedience mattered more.
Obedience to God doesn’t always result in parades and parties. It is more difficult to seek man's praise than to remain faithful to the Lord. People often waver in their opinions and change their responses. God doesn’t change His mind, and He knows more than we ever could. When God sends you to do a hard thing, be confident in knowing He will guide you to its completion.
Do the difficult thing that God is asking you to do. Whether you understand it or not, be prepared to be judged or disliked for it. God will give you strength for the fight and peace amid the chaos. Remember the man who was told to arrive humbly on a donkey … because God commanded Him. Jesus did the hard thing because He loves you.
If this encouraged you, check out more articles from our Flatirons Spiritual Formation Team for practical tools, encouragement, and ways to grow in your faith and leadership. Click here.