Years ago television didn't have remote controls. To turn the TV on or off, to change the channels, or to adjust the volume, you had to leave your chair, go to the set, and get personally involved. Now, through remote controls, your favorite chair is like a distant throne from which you can make your TV do your bidding.

Some people think of Jesus sitting on His heavenly throne and directing His earthly servants from afar. But before He ascended He said to His disciples, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18). After commissioning them to go and make disciples of all nations, He assured them, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (v.20). British scholar F. F. Bruce puts it this way: "He accompanies His agents. He does not energize them by remote control; He is present with them by His Spirit. They work for Him, but He works in them."

Praise the Lord, the Savior is not only enthroned in heaven, but by God's indwelling Spirit He is also actively at work on earth through His obedient children. As you serve Him today, perhaps in a tough situation, remember, He's not directing you by remote control. By His indwelling presence He is working in your needy world through you.    — Joanie Yoder