Push Me, Pull You

Posted on May 23, 2018 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

“Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like…” — Luke 6:47

One of my favorite movies as a kid was Dr. Doolittle, Oh how I wished I could talk to the animals. There was one species in particular I remember, the “Push me, pull you”- a llama that had two heads but one was in the front and the other in the back. One would push while the other pulled, but they both couldn’t push and pull at the same time, it took cooperation.

Sometimes I think our walk with the Lord creates a “push me, pull you” scenario, where, even though we are reading His word and praying we are still not in step with His will. There seems to be a disconnect between what we hear but do not understand. In reading through the Gospels it appears that Jesus spends a lot of time correcting a misinterpretation or a concept that has been misunderstood and offers a parable or a worldly example of a spiritual principle.

In Luke chapter 6 we see Jesus take an opportunity to explain kingdom principles, but instead, because of their traditions, some were not “in step” with the Lord. I wonder what keeps us “in step?” How do we adjust to spiritual truths when it comes to our own will? I have a Buddy who often tells me “You may not be right, but you’re sure.”

In this portion of scripture it appears that Jesus turns His attention from the Jewish leaders who oppose Him and puts His attention on a group of men who seem willing to follow. He rebukes the scholars and calls the simple.

Jesus then takes an opportunity to teach His disciples an attitude adjustment lesson, He brings them to an introspection to prepare them for the journey ahead. I hope when I am in God’s word that I can be in stride with His Spirit, that I can put away my own interests and adjust my attitude towards His, when He’s pulling I’m pushing. I want to make sure I follow the pattern of not being hypocritical and judgmental towards others because of my own convictions. I pray, “Lord open my eyes to see the wonderful things you do.” May I never hear the Holy Spirit say to me, “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?”

So, before we start to build our house, let’s make sure we are on a solid foundation, Amen!

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri, and serves with her as full time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.

The Daily Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21-22, Psalm 30|You can download our 2017 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

Daily Quote: “A clear conscience is absolutely essential for distinguishing between the voice of God and the voice of the enemy. Unconfessed sin is a prime reason why many do not know God’s will.”– Winkie Pratney

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope. Psalm 119:116