Luke 19:1-4

"Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short, he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him since Jesus was coming that way." 

 

In psychology and communication, our understanding of reality is shaped by how we position ourselves in various social contexts. It acknowledges the power of perception—the way we position ourselves influences not only how we perceive the world but also how the world perceives us. This concept is referred to as *The Positioning Theory*

 

Just as in our daily interactions, our spiritual positioning hugely influences our encounters with the Divine. The positioning theory of our faith acknowledges that how we position ourselves before God shapes our perception of His guidance, presence, and  power.

 

Zacchaeus had a burning desire to see Jesus and this led him to take unconventional measures. 

 

 

1. *Leave the Ground*

Zacchaeus faced an obstacle—the crowd obstructed his view of Jesus. Yet, he didn't allow hindrances to deter him. Instead, he left the ground, climbed a sycamore-fig tree, and positioned himself for a divine encounter. 

*Prayer Point 1*

Pray that God will give us the courage to leave the familiar ground of comfort, and rise above obstacles that hinder our connection with Him. 

 

2. *Promptly Obey Instructions*

Zacchaeus' decision to climb the tree was a response to an inner prompting. Despite societal expectations and potential embarrassment, he promptly obeyed the impulse to see Jesus.

Can you recall the number of times you've ignored responding to instructions from the Holy Spirit, only to discover that you missed out on a opportunity God had prepared for you? 

 

*Prayer Point 2*

Pray that God grant you ears that hear His instructions. So we may swift in our obedience, even when it requires stepping out of our comfort zones. 

 

3. *Practice Dangerous Surrender*

Zacchaeus' act of climbing a tree was a symbol of surrender and vulnerability. He risked exposing himself to the crowd for the chance to encounter Jesus. 

What are we holding onto today that is holding us back from being vulnerable with God? 

 

*Prayer Point 3*

Pray that God will help you to practice dangerous surrender that will open new doors. To empower you to be willing to take risks, surrender your pride and preconceptions, before Him.

 

 

*Prayer Point 4*