Is your life predictable? Do you do the same thing, day after day? Has the excitement gone?
For Jesus, the end of the earthly road was in sight. He was leaving the last city before His final stop in Jerusalem. But He would perform one more miracle of special significance. A blind man had been sitting by the side of the road begging day after day. It was the same routine for Bartimaeus… get out of bed, wander down to the road, and sit and wait for someone to show compassion to a poor blind man. He had little help, little hope and little happiness. Life was an endless journey into monotony and mediocrity. But then Jesus walked by him, and that’s when His world changed.
Maybe you are like Bartimaeus. You’re not blind, but you find yourself today on the side of life’s road while everybody else goes merrily on their way. Day after day it never changes. The drudgery, the stress, the fatigue is constant. Everyday like the day before. How can you break out of this rut?
You will discover in this story of Bartimaeus five clues to break out of your rut. Please read his story in Mark 10:46-52.
Bartimaeus was aware of his condition. He knew the trouble he was in. He did not try to hide from his problems or blame somebody else. He assumed responsibility for your his life. Until you can honestly assess your own condition, you will see little improvement. It can be hard to look in the mirror, but if you can honestly ‘confess our sins’ Jesus is ‘faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.’ Admit your faults and shortcomings.
Bartimaeus believed in Jesus. He is one of the few who recognized Jesus as the legitimate heir to King David’s throne. This blind beggar could see that Jesus was the King, while so many others were blind to who He was. Seeing with your eyes doesn’t guarantee seeing with your heart. That’s where faith comes in. Believe who Jesus is… the Son of God and Savior of the world. He has the power to change every circumstance. Believe God can change your life.
Bartimaeus was persistent. Bartimaeus not only believed, his belief was persistence. He wanted the Son of David to stop what He was doing and attend to the struggles of an insignificant man. While others were telling him to be quiet, he spoke up louder. Stop worrying about what other people say. Keep believing.
Bartimaeus responded to Jesus immediately. He did not hesitate. He got up quickly and went to Jesus. Stop waiting for ideal circumstances. Do something bold. Follow Jesus. This was Bartimaeus’ one and only chance. Jesus was on His way to the cross. He would not be back that way again. This is a vivid picture of salvation. God does not guarantee us a second chance to follow Him. Today is the day of salvation.
Bartimaeus received healing from Jesus. This was out of his control. But Jesus saw his faith and brought healing to his life. It is interesting that when Jesus gave Bartimaeus the freedom to go his own way, he followed Jesus on the road to Jerusalem.
Wow! What a story! If you find yourself in a rut, I hope you can pick up on a few ideas to change your circumstances. Even if you can’t change your surroundings, God can change your heart.