Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them. (Acts 15:38)
If I’m not careful, my emotions can control my actions. I remember when I was working on a volunteer project for a local nonprofit organization and I had a disagreement with someone about how it should be completed. The individual was adamant their way was the best and only way even though I had information showing otherwise. We spent a lot of time going back and forth about how to complete the project because we were both acting from our emotions. Ultimately, we ended up having to get assistance from someone else in order to make a wise decision on how to proceed. The third party suggested something completely different from both of our ideas—wisdom we did not have.
Paul believed taking John Mark with them was not a wise decision. In the past, John Mark left them when they were traveling. Paul felt these past behaviors of John Mark were an indicator of what could potentially happen on this trip. Therefore, he felt the wise choice would be to not take John Mark with them again.
When wisdom comes from the Holy Spirit, we must be willing to listen even if it goes against what we prefer or want. If we allow our emotions to drive our behaviors, we might make decisions that feel right to us but are wrong for the kingdom of God.
Be intentional about listening to wisdom from others.
Tara Klein is a Wesley Seminary graduate who enjoys relaxing with her family, serving others, and sharing God’s unconditional love with the lost and brokenhearted.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
