When we say someone is “driven” we are commenting on their desire to get things done, their oomph, so to speak. We will especially note their passion or what makes them tick.
When we say someone is “driven” we will often tag them a label- like OCD- or something like that. They may not have or be OC but their “drive” keeps them hopping and desiring that of others as well.
I thought of that when I read the following quote from Jesus Continued by J.D.Greear:
Let me remark that being ‘led by the Spirit of God’ is a remarkable expression. The Bible does not say, ‘As many as are driven by the Spirit of God.’ No, the devil is a driver, and when he enters either into me or into hogs he drives them furiously. (p.87)
The reference to the hogs is from Mark 5:1-20.
Jesus once said, “And I, when I am lifted up, will draw all people to myself.” (John 12:32) Interesting word used there. Jesus uses the word “draw” not “drag.” The word for draw in the Greek is used for “to draw like a magnet.” Not drag. Not force. Draw. I have a loved one I am praying for. He said he once loved Jesus and now gives no credence to Him at all. My daily prayer? “Lord, draw Him to You.” He can’t be driven. He has to be drawn by the love of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Trying to drive people or to drag them to Jesus never has worked and never will. Besides, it is a much more responsive awareness to be drawn and make a decision of our own volition.
I’m leaving Friday morning for Ohio to bring my grandson back to Indiana for a week. I will be out of touch for 2-3 days. I will see you on Sunday night or Monday (whichever works for you). Have a great weekend. Please say a prayer for Ryan since he will be preaching Sunday on Jesus’ final sayings #5 & 6.
Interesting perspective that I had not considered before. Kind of like Jesus knocks at the door, but we have to choose to go to the door, open it, and let him in.
Exactly!
Have a great trip, Bill.
Thanks Larry. Be back Saturday. 🙂
We waste alot of time trying to play Holy Spirit in the lives of others.
He’s so able to woo and convict and heal and make those great big life changes in the lives of those we love.
And in our own hearts …
So true Linda. Things work a whole lot better when I get out of the way.
I love the image of Jesus drawing us to Him like a magnet; He never forces His way into our hearts, just gently leads.
Have a wonderful trip, Bill, and fun with the grandchild! I, too, will be out of the loop next week.
Blessings!
I see Him drawing us also Martha. Opposite of shoving us or pulling us against our will. I will have fun and also know I will be tired. 🙂 Have fun no matter what you do as well.
I recently read a book about how we can’t help but read the Bible with tainted cultural eyes that perhaps has nothing to do with what the author intended or the first audience would have understood. To me, this is a similar ideal. We as a culture value the intensity and passion so we can transfer that to God and how He operates. He invites us to follow and He will lead. It’s a mutual commitment and bond of love. Good thoughts, Bill. Thank you.
That’s a big distinction. The Good Shepard leads His flock and still seeks in love the lost and the fallen… Wonderful picture of true Love and compassion.
Praying or Ryan and your safe trip.