Stepping Back

“The Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place.”

Matthew 12:14-15a

 

Sometimes we just need to take a step back and breathe. It’s tempting to get caught up in the moment, especially when in a place of darkness. When the Pharisees gathered together like a brood of vipers to plot against Jesus, Jesus withdrew from that place. He withdrew, He did not hide. Jesus saw danger and, in His wisdom, He decided to step away and go somewhere else. That does not make Him weak. He stepped away perhaps also because He saw that the Pharisees’ hearts were so hardened and no matter how much He said or tried to do they would not listen. And so, He needed to move on.

Stepping back is not giving up. It is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of deep and profound trust in the Lord. Sometimes stepping back or stepping away can be the biggest and most important step we take. There are times in our lives and maybe even in our relationships where we just need to take a step back and see things from another perspective. Are things toxic? Are these things causing me to lose peace? Are these things or people drawing me away from God? If so, then we must step back. In stepping back and withdrawing we must bring these things to the Lord, asking Him to shed light on all these things, to bring healing, and to bring life. Today, may we ask the Father to grant us the strength and courage to step back and withdraw when needed, trusting that He will see us through.

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