Lessons from the Life of Judas - 1

There are many ways to receive instruction. One of the ways to receive instructions is to learn from the life of others. Today, no parent would want to name their son Judas (Jude, yes, but not Judas), and there is a reason for that.

Judas Iscariot was one of Christ's trusted Apostle, and yet he betrayed the Lord and abandoned the faith. The story of his life must strike a sober cord in our hearts and give us reasons for personal reflection.

1. Judas Refused to Change
Judas had been called personally by the Lord; he followed him for three years, heard him preach and teach the messages that have impacted millions over the years. He had personally seen Jesus walk on water; still, stormy seas, feed thousands with five bread and two fish, raise people from the dead. Not only that, he, too, received power from the Lord to heal the sick and cast out demons. (Matthew 10:1) He was also entrusted by the Lord to manage the ministry's finances.

Scripture tells us that when Lord Jesus chose His twelve apostles, he gave a prophetic hint.
Jesus answered them, "Did I not choose you, the twelve, and one of you is a devil?" He spoke of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, for it was he who would betray Him, being one of the twelve. (John 6:70-71)

The sad part is Judas started as a devil and ended as a devil. The good news today is we can have a bad start, but we can have a glorious future.

Sadly, what Judas heard and saw did not change him. There are many people like this even today. They attend the services, see so many things happen. They see the river flow right in front of them, but they do not take the plunge. This tells me that it's not enough to just be where Jesus is. It's not enough to hang around Jesus. It's not enough to just hear the word.

The Bible commands us, saying:
But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. (James 1:22-25)

Whenever you attend a service, make sure that you carry a bible (digital or book version; anything will do as long as you use and follow it). Make notes and review them throughout the week. Make it a point to incorporate the message into your lifestyle. As you do this, you will see patterns of stagnancy and poverty break in your life.

1. Lord, I surrender my thoughts to You, O Lord of Heaven and Earth. Holy Spirit of God, inspire me with what is on Your heart.

2. Father, in the name of Jesus, strip me of all forms of pride. Show me the way in which I must go. Open my eyes to your wisdom and my ears to Your good counsel.