December 15, 2025, Monday Message:
John 15:16 NLT, Jesus speaking: “You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.”
Obedience is rewarded. Jesus chose you to join his group of believers. He assigns task to each of us, according to our gifts and talents. He will not ask you to take on a job for which you lack the necessary skills. In other words, God’s asks are most certainly possible. He needs the job done, and we want to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” See, this is gonna work out!
The last thing Jesus asked us to do is to make disciples of all nations. There are many pieces in that puzzle. Some of us are better at small, 1-on-1 encounters. Others are gifted at speaking to large groups. Some are gifted at teaching adults; others, children. Some have the gift of hospitality. They can make everyone feel welcome. Others plan and lead evangelical events.
No matter your skill set, the reward is the same. God will give us whatever we ask in Jesus’ name. Ask to spend eternity in God’s presence in His Heavenly Kingdom. That’s called Assurance of Salvation. Believers are adopted as children of God, so we can simply come home!
Lessons for your church: The lead soprano in the choir may not be able to cook. (Better left to the hospitality department!) Your talented maintenance man may have a gruff personality. (I know his first name!) Teenagers may not know how to clean the youth room; they need to be taught. (You made the mess – you clean it up! I’m not your mother!) A pastor who loves the Lord and loves people may not be gifted in public speaking. (I’ve seen that more times than you might think!) If the children need to put on a program, singing may not be the best option. They don’t all have that skill! Utilizing our God-given gifts honors the Lord who created us!
Don’t shirk your responsibility, and we’re all responsible for something. Remember, obedience is rewarded!
Pastor Norton Lawellin
Jesus In the City Fellowship
The Father’s House
Truth and Freedom Church
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