“And He went up to the mountain and He called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him.” (v.13)
Jesus often retired to a place of solitude for prayer and communion with His Father. Here in our text we see Him going up to a mountain to pray and consider whom He would call to become His Apostles from among His many disciples. Luke’s gospel tells us that when He retired to the mountain for solemn prayer, He continued all night in that duty before He made His choice (Luke 6:12).
These twelve were to be His Apostles, to preach in His name, to work miracles, to cast out demons, heal the sick, and to withstand persecution, even unto death. Therefore, this decision was not one to be taken lightly nor done without seeking His Father’s guidance. This shows us that much consideration and prayer should go into the selection of persons for ministry, and that nothing in so important a work should be done in haste.
This then becomes a blueprint for us in every important decision we need to make in our lives. Go to our mountain, call upon God, and continue to pray until our spirit is sure of His leading.
The Truth: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5)
