The Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against [Jesus], how to destroy him (Mark 3:6).

Though Jesus commands us to be peacemakers (Matt. 5:9), it’s also clear that if we pattern our lives after his, we will stir up trouble at times, and even create enemies.

Sometimes we create enemies because of our self-righteousness. And sometimes, mere cowardice tempts us to “keep the peace” rather than speak the truth. Can you recall examples of each in your own life?

More importantly, are you being called to speak the truth to some situation right now? What are the risks involved, and are you willing to face them?

–Mark Galli
This is part of Mark Galli’s guided journal, “Discovering the Untamable God,” a 12-week journey through the Gospel of Mark. Twice a week, you’ll receive a new journaling prompt encouraging you encounter the wild, untamable Jesus of the Gospel of Mark and let his radical sayings and actions transform your life. Use these prompts in your own journal or in group discussion. If you’re joining this journal mid-way through, you can start journaling at any time, and stay subscribed at the end, when the journal will restart and you can receive the prompts that you missed.