Focus or Force
John 6:13 There were only five barley loaves to start with, but twelve baskets were filled with the pieces of bread the people did not eat! John 6:14 When the people saw this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”
John 6:15 Jesus saw that they were ready to take him by force and make him king, so he went higher into the hills alone.
Jesus, once again, had performed a miracle. He recognized and met a deep need. No one had to ask or tell him about it. The truth was he was always looking for opportunities to meet needs because he was selfless. When the people saw what he was capable of they attempted to force him into “selfless” service. There are a few problems with people's mindset and approach. Let's address the issues with their mindset first. Selflessness is born from within rather than imposed by outside forces. They misunderstand the very nature of what they propose.
John 6:14 When the people saw this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”
The people learn through miraculous demonstration that Jesus is capable and gifted in ways they did not realize previous to their experience. However, Jesus is not just discovering his abilities or gifts. His knowledge of his gifts compelled him to identify and meet their need. They assume that Jesus has not recognized his purpose and needs their direction to maximize his potential. That could not be further from the truth. His momentary act of service was not intended to be translated into a lifetime of activity. His purpose was greater than the action they observed. In fact, they had only witnessed a minor display of his power. As a result, Jesus pulls away from them and goes where he can breathe and reaffirm his purpose.
John 6:15 Jesus saw that they were ready to take him by force and make him king, so he went higher into the hills alone
The second issue is with the people's approach. They decide they are going to force Jesus to be what they want him to be. They are not interested in his thoughts about his purpose. Their actions are fundamentally driven by a desire to exploit Jesus' gifts under the guise of promoting selflessness. Jesus already demonstrated he was selfless. He met a need without being asked or requesting acknowledgment. His selflessness was not debatable. He is without a doubt the epitomy of selflessness. Manipulators always test to see if they can diminish a target's self-confidence and thereby gain control over them. The people assume he is unaware of his purpose and claim the right to direct his path. They unanimously take the position of authorities in his life and as such are not open to discussion. People with the right intentions are readily open to dialogue. The crowd Jesus faced intended to make Jesus do what they desired. There was no room for inquiry into Jesus' perceptions.
You may have experienced this subtle manipulation. People go even further and launch assaults on your character because you will not be puppeteered. Jesus did not allow himself to be manipulated and neither should you. Hold on to the clarity granted by your knowledge of your purpose. God designed you to fulfill his plan no one else's. Follow Jesus' example. Move to higher ground where people respect you and allow you to breathe. Sometimes, like Jesus, that might mean being alone for a time. Avoid manipulators. Attempts to derail you or tear you down are based on your good character and immeasurable worth. Don't let anyone keep you from your purpose or tarnish your self-perception.
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Tony Francis is from the Middle East. He is grounded in the scriptures and has a licensed degree in biblical studies from MTI, the school of ministry, and a certificate in EPL (effective personal leadership) from LMI. He has authored many books and is the founder of Healed Nations Ministries (www.healednations.com). Tony mentors people in the prophetic and served as the prophetic leader of Patricia King's ministries. Tony is studying to be a mental health coach.
What Lies Ahead: A 4 Year Prophecy for the United States.
By Tony Francis.
I was in prayer, positioning myself before our Heavenly Father to hear from Him for the next four years for America. I submit this to you in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen!
This is what I feel the Holy Spirit is revealing to me, as someone seasoned in the prophetic for decades:
I sense the Lord has highlighted the word ‘LIFE' for these four coming years. It feels as though America has been under an assignment of death for a while, with various areas like business, social justice, education, and freedom withering. I saw these areas being affected by the spirit of death.
However, I see in the Spirit the rain of life and refreshment pouring out on the land, watering it. I believe the first two years will be about healing and gaining momentum, which should be beautiful and exciting. Don't we get excited when we start seeing our bodies, relationships, and finances healing? We get our hopes up, but healing is not the end goal; it's a step towards something greater! So, the coming two years will be marked by healing and peace, and many people will join forces as one community to facilitate this.
In the last two years, I see America regaining its reputation and the name of the USA having a strong place on the list of global countries once again. A strong presence that influences the course of events!
Therefore, rejoice, and discern the times, seasons, and orders. As believers, let's avoid negative speech and curses. Do not despise the days of small beginnings! You will reach your goals, but there's a specific way, wisdom, and timing to it.
Never say nothing is happening. See the truth of the matter!
I am unbiased and do not engage in politics. My concern is the Kingdom of Jesus, for God so loved the world!
Blessings,
Tony Francis
Healed Nations CEO.
For more information visit www.healednations.com
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