Some observations about the behaviors of those who follow Jesus, from the first few chapters of Mark:
1. They want to follow Jesus. Mark 5:18
2. They go and tell their friends what Jesus has done for them and how He has had mercy on them. Mark 5:20
3. They listen to the teachings of Jesus and correctly apply it to their lives. Mark 4:13-20
4. They put feet to their faith and reach out for Jesus to meet their needs. Mark 5:22-23, Mark 5:34
5. They take time away from serving others and rest from their work. Mark 6:30-33
6. At times, they fail to believe that the power of Jesus is not confined by the situations and circumstances of those who follow Him. Mark 6:35-44
It's helpful to identify these things, but the transformation and freedom for the believer is not in identifying the facts about following Jesus, but in putting these things in to practice. And if what Jesus has done for you has not captured your heart, then you will not be able to persist in these behaviors for very long, for no amount of religious activites will ever do what only Jesus can do- change our hearts. Behavior follows belief.
Thankful that this is true:
"... for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13 ESV)
