Revelations: Keeping an Open Mind
Keeping an open mind is not typically one of my strengths. Using my mind, yes. Always being open to new things or ways that seem foreign to me, not as much. However, practicing this lately has led me to some fantastic discoveries personally, professionally, and spiritually.
As we go about our roles in various industries, discerning whether to be open-minded in a situation or to stand firm in our original thought is often the most difficult job of a leader. As Christians, we must test these thoughts before the Lord to understand how He wants to work. Let’s take an example from one of the early leaders of our church and how Peter's original stance was corrected in a big move of God.
Peter and Cornelius Acts 10
Peter was deeply rooted in Jewish customs and beliefs, which included not associating with Gentiles (non-Jews) and following strict dietary laws. However, in Acts 10, God gives him a vision that challenges his rigid thinking.
The Vision
Peter sees a sheet descending from heaven filled with all kinds of animals, including those considered "unclean" by Jewish law. A voice tells him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” Peter refuses, saying he has never eaten anything unclean. But the voice responds, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” This happens three times.
The Revelation
Right after the vision, Peter is led to the house of Cornelius, a Roman centurion and a Gentile. Normally, Peter would never enter a Gentile’s house, but because of the vision, he realizes that God is showing him that salvation is for all people, not just the Jews. He preaches to Cornelius and his household, and they receive the Holy Spirit—just like the Jews did at Pentecost.
The Takeaway
Peter was stuck in his ways, thinking that God’s promises and laws were only for the Jewish people. But by being open to what God was revealing, he understood a deeper truth about God’s love and inclusion. This moment changed Christianity forever, opening the door for the Gospel to reach the entire world.
This story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, our original thoughts and preconceived beliefs can limit what we think God is doing—but when we stay open, God can reveal more of Himself and His plans! Today, I am grateful for the ways in which I've been challenged. God has revealed Himself more and more through things that were already familiar to me. I was blind initially until the revelation took place.
Are there situations you need to be open to? Listen for the Spirit to move you, and if God reveals Himself, you may have just unlocked a new way in which He wants to work in your life.
-Mark
