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 Acts 1:24-26

         The responsibility for Judas’ actions was on Judas. He had a privileged position as an apostle of Jesus Christ. My guess is he was incredibly talented, committed, and capable. Yet he had a fatal flaw. He lacked faith in Jesus Christ. He had no patience. He could not wait on God’s timing and God’s justice. And he threw his life away. And Matthias received the blessing of being an apostle and living a life filled with light and joy.

Here are a couple of thoughts on this. First, while God knew what deceit would come into Judas’ heart, he did not cause it, nor was God responsible for Judas’ sin. It was Judas who deserted his Master and his brothers in Christ. Peter confirms that Judas has gone where he belongs. Presumably, hell. Sad, tragic, but true. And just. Let that be a lesson to each of us. Do not drift away. Do not shipwreck your faith. Each of us is accountable to Jesus Christ on the Day of judgment. Thank God for His mercy and grace. But never for one second believe that God is not perfectly just.

         Second, the apostles read Scripture to require a replacement of the 12th apostle. So they get down to business: no search committees, no expensive headhunting firms, no begging for applications. Instead, an honest assessment of the requirements: (1) present for the entire ministry of Jesus (v. 22) and (2) a heart for God (v.24).

         Peter did not dictate the nominations. The nominations came from the group. And then they cast lots to allow God to show which man should replace Judas. God is the Master who can always orchestrate his way. But we must pray and ask for His will. He knows our hearts, and He knows the heart of every leader. Yet we must use our sense, our common sense, to select men - qualified men of character and good reputation. We must humbly remember that we are not in charge. God is.

         Look to both experience and godly character when selecting a leader. Pray, and ask God to show his choice. Don’t leave God out of critical decisions, nay, all decisions.

         Lord Jesus, I’m sorry for leaving you out. Please prompt me to get your counsel and your choice in everything. And help us to make decisions with confidence in you. Amen.


                                                Prayer wall.  Outer Banks, NC, coffee shop.  

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