No...

 “As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.”

— Mark 5:18-20

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

It's puzzling to me that here was a man, who now completely free from the demons who possessed him, wanted to follow you and you did not let him. He wanted to get in the boat with you and go where you were going and you said, "No."?! As I read on, I see your intent. You directed him to "go home" to his own people—family, friends, acquaintances—those who knew him best, "and tell them how much the Lord has done for you." By going back home, this man would have a greater ministry than if he got in the boat with you and left his own people.

Two things stand out to me. First, your "No" wasn't without good reason! Your "No" was for that man! When you tell me "No" to something good I want to pursue (like getting in the boat with you), you always have a reason and you likely have a different direction or destination for me.

Second, in the preceding verses, all the people of that region begged you to leave (vs. 17). They were afraid (vs. 15). They needed you so much that they asked you to leave! So, you sent them a missionary. This demon-possessed man, now dressed and in his right mind, went back home and told everyone how much Jesus had done for him. "And all the people were amazed." Your "No" to that man was for all the people who would be impacted by his testimony.

Lord, today help me trust your "No" just as much as your "Yes." You have good reasons for saying no. Reasons that are for my good and for the good of those I will impact. Thank you for your No and for your Yes.

In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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