Those two traits rarely exist in the same sentence, but our devotional for today encourages us to be broadminded, but retain an ability/willingness to be resistant. Sure, seems those would almost never exist in you life, let alone actually making an effort to develop and strengthen them.
Broadminded simply means your heart and spirit are open and ready for His guidance, for His leading FOR you. In fact, Ephesians 3:16-19 admonishes us; "That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; (17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (19) And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God." Sure, this is a lengthy passage, but essentially is reminding us that once you surrender your life (yes, preconceptions are included) and open your mind/heart, the Lord will broaden your faith, your perspectives, even your fears... to experience a deeper and richer walk with Jesus.
Now, your enriched life has a purpose; in Jesus we are better equipped to face controversy... no longer are we limited in our hearts/thoughts to narrow and restrictive lifestyles... we have a wonderful freedom in the Lord... yet, we don't take this liberty selfishly. Rather, our lives benefit directly from His dying on that cross. Hebrews 4:14-16 shares; "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (15) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.", which is to say that He is our example, He is our guide, He is even our teacher for the How-To process we face. For, as the passage notes, He was tempted 'like as we'. His was a first-hand and personal experience.
But, many still argue; many still doubt... Their influence and teaching can be tough to recognize, tough to surpass, even tough to resist. The Jews had the same trouble as they questioned and challenged Jesus' stature, His 'rights' to communicate His broadminded approach to God... and He concluded in John 8:44 by telling them; "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it". A bit harsh and possibly narrow-minded. But, John 4:7-8 reinforces your calling to be resistant as it states; "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (8) Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."
Broad-mindedness is a quality of depth in the Lord. Resistance is not against your growth and trust in the Lord; rather, it is a testament to your strength, your trust and certainly your faith in His promise, His will, and His word for your life. Broadminded resistance is a keen quality.
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