What Would Jesus Do?

What Would Jesus Do?

I recently read the classic novel, “In His Steps,” by Charles Sheldon which was written in the early 1900’s and originated the phrase, “What would Jesus do?” One man and his local church decide to answer the call to base all their decisions on the simple phrase, “What would Jesus do?” This started a chain of events that affected people throughout the nation. I felt challenged myself as I read the book. Many of you, like me, want to be more like Jesus, longing to line up everyday life with the Word of God and actions of Jesus. Seeking Him and His will are important to you.
While we can certainly make a difference by doing good works and teaching the way Jesus did, the more important question might be, “What did Jesus do?” Before you start naming all His works, let me sum it up with one scripture interwoven in much of Jesus’ teachings.
“For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.” John 6:38 NKJV
Reading the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John paints a picture of the fact that there is no particular pattern that can be drawn and followed by studying the life of Jesus. He simply did what Father God asked Him to do each day. It never shows Him making major plans; He simply went to the place God sent Him and touched the people God told Him to touch. Some places saw all people around healed and delivered; other places only a select few. Instead of speculating and trying to pinpoint why, we need to take this example and follow it. While making your plans, take time to say, “Father what would you have me to do?” We need this type of direction or else we will end up trying to do everything and burn out or be overwhelmed and do nothing.
So now I want to act like Jesus and take every day situations to the Father the way Jesus did. For example, my husband has had a bad day at work. While I try to be encouraging and positive, I quietly ask God the best way to help my husband deal with work. Or let’s say my church needs extra help during a special event. I should take time to pray and ask God where He needs me. Many times He will say to go and ask where I am needed, which will probably be the nursery. Am I listening? Do we really take time to ask the Father what to do?
Another question came to mind while reading this book: “What would Jesus have me to do?” This question bears more on the direction and purpose in my life than on everyday events. Is my life in line with the will of God in every aspect? Am I willing to seek what God would have me to do or am I seeking what is comfortable and familiar? Am I following His path for my life or my talents, gifts, or what I think is expected of me? I challenge you to prayerfully look at all these questions.
Many times we think we are too busy in our lives to ask but we don’t realize the blessings we are missing. God will order our steps so that we can prioritize what we are doing and we will end up with time to spare. Sometimes we cannot answer the question “What would Jesus have me to do?” because we don’t set aside time to pray and listen. Jesus often went alone to pray. God wants to change things in our lives but can’t because we haven’t set apart time to be in His presence, pursuing Him.
God has new opportunities to minister for some while others are being asked to set everything down and deal with life issues. Many times opportunities that God has for us will not open up until we deal with these issues.
The parable of the 10 foolish virgins found in Matthew 25 shows us an example of someone not prepared who didn’t take time to ask what they should do. They were not prepared and the door was closed; they had not taken time to find out what they should do. Seeking God will prepare us for the next thing in our lives. What would Jesus do? What did Jesus do? What would Jesus have me to do?

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