Acts Chapter 5: Verses 38-39 (NIV-UK)
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.’
Gamaliel offered wise advice to the Jewish Council. He knew that if the ministry being done in the disciples’ own strength it would eventually come to nothing, but that if it came from God, it couldn’t be stopped; and who wants to find themselves fighting against God.
That should be the measure that we use for anything being done in God’s name. Far better to follow Gamaliel’s advice than enter into any debate or argument. Our responsibility is to stay close to God ourselves, so that we know His will for us. We don’t need to get caught up with what someone else is doing, even if they are doing it in God’s name. He is well able to move on His own behalf.
Dear Lord,
Help me to be careful never to do things for You in my own strength, even if my intentions are good. I don’t want to deflect anything away from You. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.