Go When He Leads

And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. (Matthew 14:22)

Scripture tells us that Jesus “constrained” them to get in the ship. The word “constrained” means to compel with urgency. Jesus insisted they do this. He wasn’t letting them negotiate or debate. Some Christians question God when God gives them a plan. Delayed obedience is just disguised disobedience.

Jesus told them to get in the boat and go, fully knowing that a storm was on the way. But when God gives you a direction, it comes with His protection. That doesn’t mean storms won’t show up or weapons won’t be formed against you. But no matter the storm or the weapon, they can’t succeed in what they are planning to do. Faith means fully trusting God’s instruction even when you don’t understand the reason or how He will get the result.

The disciples were to go immediately as God guided them, and Jesus demonstrated this by His own example. God had placed on Jesus’ heart to send the multitudes away and find rest for Himself. Jesus was teaching through His actions the importance of taking time to recharge. The Holy Spirit will reveal to you when you don’t just need a nap, but a break from people. That’s not retreating; it’s recharging. It’s not laziness; it’s making sure you stay aligned. Rest is resistance against the idol of productivity. When you stop striving to accomplish everything and be everything to everyone, it becomes much easier to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Application

When the Holy Spirit prompts you to act or speak, don’t hesitate. Respond confidently to His guidance. Also, when the Holy Spirit indicates that your body or soul needs rest, obey immediately. Make a plan and follow through. You need rest as much as you need results.

John 6:15; Matthew 13:36