Recurrent Thought

Great harvests are still possible in the midst of wolves. We just need to understand what it takes to thrive among wolves.

Matthew 10:16

16 “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 

Background

• Jesus is sending out the 12 disciples with authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.
• He gives them clear instructions:
  • Their target is Israel not Gentiles, not Samaritans.
  • The message should be ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’
  • Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. 
  • They were to carry no provisions but find men of peace who should provide for them.
  • Be ready for any kind of reception.
• He explains to them the context of their mission – He was sending them as sheep among wolves.
  • This was not going to be a one-time event. That is how it has been and will always be.
• As Jesus sends us out today, nothing has changed. He is sending us out among wolves with no apology.

ICA has declared 2025 a Year of Great Harvest. Surely the great harvest will come in, despite the hostility of the surrounding conditions. 

What does it take to work among wolves? How do we thrive among wolves?

1. Understand the context
   • We are going as sheep/lambs
     • As sheep we are vulnerable and defenseless; we need a shepherd.
     • We need God’s guidance and protection.
     • Jesus said, “lo I am with you to the end of the age.”
     • Jesus is saying “don’t go alone.” Allow the Shepherd to lead the way. It may look familiar territory but you are vulnerable. Your enemy is looking for whom he may devour. 
     • Whatever you are planning to do in 2025, do not depend on your own strength (John 15:5; Proverbs 3:5-6).
     • The great harvests require totally trusting the Lord
     • Quote
     • “The weapon of wolves is darkness but the defence of lambs is light. Lambs depend on the movement of the shepherd. Watch the Lord who leads from territory and victory to victory.”
     • Reverend Dr. Enson Lwesya
   • We are going to meet wolves in our vulnerability
     • Wolves typically live in family groups called packs.
     • Wolves mark their territory with urine and feces to communicate boundaries and presence.
     • Wolves work as a team to hunt large prey. They use strategy and coordination to take down animals much larger than themselves.
     • Wolves are cooperative and rely on each other for survival.
     • Wolves often represent danger, aggression, and predation.
     • Jesus is saying, “do not be surprised if you meet opposition and hostility.” This is part of the game. Do not be casual.
     • The great harvests require that you get ready for the wolves. Victory will not come on a silver platter. Do your part.
2. Understand the requirements
   • Shrewdness/cleverness/smartness/discernment
     • Serpents are cautious and have ability to avoid danger.
     • Great harvests call for prudence, discernment, and being strategic in our actions—able to recognize potential dangers and navigate them effectively without being reckless.
     • Do not be naïve; be alert.
3. Innocence
   • Doves symbolize purity, peace, and harmlessness.
   • Innocence is about maintaining moral integrity and avoiding deceit or harm to others.
      
   • Jesus is calling for a balance between wisdom and integrity if we want great harvests.
   • Know how to avoid danger in this hostile world. Let the Shepherd lead.
   • Do not compromise your integrity because of hostility

Prayer Time

1. Lord help me to trust you even in familiar territory.
2. Lord help me to be shrewd in all my undertakings.
3. Lord help me not to compromise my integrity under hostility.