Luke 9:41 “O unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you and put up with you? Bring your son here.”

It’s actually rather nice to know that Jesus got exasperated, because that means it isn’t a sin! It’s also nice to be reminded that, as a human being, Jesus wanted to get things over with. That likewise means that such feelings aren’t sin. It is significant that immediately after healing the boy, He told his disciples that He would be betrayed, even though they couldn’t take in what He was telling them. Jesus dealt with frustrating situations just as we do! Frustration doesn’t necessarily mean we are in the wrong, it may simply be an indication that we live in a fallen world. I would guess that Jesus prayed a lot about His frustrations, because that’s the best thing to do with them. They are excellent training in trusting God and releasing things to Him! That’s probably what it’s talking about in Hebrews when it says that He “learned obedience from what He suffered.” (Hebrews 5:8) All us have to deal with living in a fallen world among imperfect human beings, but Jesus did too. We need to learn from Him to trust our Father and walk in faithful obedience.

I certainly experience this as a pastor, but every parent experiences it as well. I’m not to give up on myself or on any of my flock, and I’m not to put myself down for having such feelings. It’s not wrong to say and feel, Maran atha! (Come, O Lord.) (1 Corinthians 16:22) However, I’ve got to release the timing into His hands. Meanwhile, I’m to be faithful at the tasks I’ve been given. This is actually part of the message I’ve been given for this morning, because I’m preaching on “Persevering.” I must not preach to others and fail to be obedient myself! Exasperation is no excuse for trying to take things into my own hands. Some scholars say that is what Judas did, thinking he was forcing Jesus to display His power and take command, not realizing that he was trying to manipulate God. I must not do that! I need to rest, relax, and rejoice, regardless of the path the Lord leads me on and whatever happens along the way.

Father, thank You for this strong reminder. I ask for Your anointing this morning as I speak, that it may be Your Word indeed, to me and to everyone. Help us all hear from You with obedient hearts, allowing You to change, grow, and mature us as we need it, to be Your children indeed, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!