Nurtured Hearts Hub 💚

Have you ever felt like someone didn’t belong just because they weren’t part of your group? Maybe at work, in school, or even in your church community? It’s easy to think that only those who walk the same path as us are the ones who are “doing it right.” But today, let’s take a moment to reflect on a powerful lesson from Jesus.

In Mark 9:38-39, John told Jesus about a man driving out demons in His name, but because the man wasn’t part of their group, they tried to stop him. Jesus’ response? “Do not prevent him.” That’s a simple yet profound reminder that God works through people in ways we don’t always expect.

Faith Is Bigger Than Our Comfort Zones

Sometimes, we get caught up in labels—denominations, backgrounds, or even personal opinions on how things should be done. But Jesus teaches us that faith isn’t about exclusion; it’s about recognizing the good that is being done in His name, even if it comes from unexpected places. God is moving in ways beyond our sight, and He calls us to trust in His greater plan. This applies to our everyday lives, too.

Think about it—how often do we judge others because they don’t do things exactly as we do? Maybe a coworker has a different approach to solving a problem, a classmate expresses faith differently, or a neighbor helps in ways that seem unconventional. Instead of shutting them out, what if we chose to see their goodness and the ways God might be using them?

Choosing Encouragement Over Division

It’s easy to tear people down, but it takes real strength to lift others up. Instead of shutting someone out because they’re different, what if we encouraged them? What if we celebrated the goodness in their actions rather than questioning whether they “belong”?

Jesus calls us to unity, not division. And in a world filled with conflicts, misunderstandings, and negativity, choosing to support, rather than exclude, can be the light someone desperately needs.

A Daily Reminder: God Works Through Everyone

So, how can we apply this lesson to our daily lives?

• See the good. When someone does something kind or meaningful, acknowledge it, even if it’s not how you would have done it.
• Encourage rather than criticize. A small word of encouragement can uplift someone and remind them they are valued.
• Trust God’s bigger picture. We don’t always see the full story, but God does. Let’s trust that He is working in ways beyond our understanding.

A Simple Self-Affirmation

“I trust in God’s plan and celebrate the goodness in others, knowing His love works through all who seek Him.” Let’s live with open hearts, ready to see God’s work everywhere. Because in the end, His love isn’t about who belongs where, it’s about how we all, in our own ways, reflect His light.