“Effort Required”

Years ago I read a magazine article about how a college Admissions Committee went about its task. One example given was that of a candidate who met all the basic requirements for acceptance (grades, references, activities, etc.) and had requested financial aid. On further review, however, it was found that the applicant had never held an after-school or summer job. Based on his perceived lack of effort he was denied admission.

As I’ve read through the Gospels over the years I’ve noticed how often Jesus required effort on the part of those He helped and healed. In Luke 17 He told 10 men suffering from leprosy to go to the Jewish priests and “…as they went they were cleansed.” To the lame man at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5) He said, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” Once the man did so he was cured. And how about the man with a shriveled hand in Mark 3 to whom Jesus said, “Stretch out your hand” and saw his useless limb restored. If these (and others) hadn’t been willing to make the effort to do what Jesus told them to they’d never have received the blessing of being made whole.

In Luke 18:1 Jesus tells us we “…should always pray and not give up.” And God has promised to answer our prayers as we obey and please Him (1 John 3:22). But I believe He expects us to use the resources, abilities, and common sense He’s entrusted to us. For example, when we ask for our material needs to be met are we making an effort to work or seek employment if we’re able (“If a man will not work, he shall not eat.”—2 Thessalonians 3:10)? Or if we’re asking for loved ones and friends to be saved are we sharing the message of Jesus with them (“…you will be my witnesses….”—Acts 1:8)? As someone once put it, God wants us to be available to be the answers to our prayers should He choose to work in that way.

Growth in faith isn’t automatic; it comes from a willingness to pay the price. Are we ready to put forth the needed effort to make it a reality?

Blessings!

Jim McMillan