I wish I had the guts to leave everything when called (like the first disciples did), and follow a new plan Jesus has for me...but I don't think I do. I remember being called into ministry, and taking my sweet time deciding whether it would be good for me or not. Then I took, possibly, the longest path possible to becomming a pastor. I hope I act quicker, with more trust, the next time Jesus calls me out of my comfort zone.
The question that hit me hardest today was, Is there a verse to memorize? The verse is actually Deuteronomy 8:3, "People do not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." Jesus quotes it (in verse 4) to stop the devil's temptations. This verse reminds me why we are studying the scriptures. God's word recorded equips us for life as Christians, and gives us the tools to help face temptations. The devil show us an error, however. He uses scripture as a tool to get what he desires (in verse 6). I know a lot of people who will quote a verse or 2 in order to suit their own interests. But Jesus puts it all back into context...using more scripture. Remember, we live by "every word." Be encouraged by scripture, but also allow yourself to be challenged by it. Jesus knew his bible, was strengthened by it, and its wisdom allowed him to answer those who sought to derail him or control him.
Lord, as I read you word, may I have a hunger for more of it; more of you. May I not use it to suit my desires. Instead use it to change my desires. May it bring me the wisdom necessary to live a life that brings you joy. Amen.
I guess the part of this chapter that got me is the part about the disciples dropping EVERYthing and just walking away!...following Jesus!
ReplyDeleteWe were discussing at church on day the amazing supernatural experiences of great Christians of the past. It was all great to talk about it but I felt compelled to point out to the group, "Yes, but hindsight is a wonderful thing. We can now see how God was in these experiences. But the truth is, if one of our own congregation came in and started to tell about an incredible supernatural experience where God visited them during the night and that He had a message to deliver or something...more than likely we would think they were either becoming unbalanced, or giving into emotionalism, or gone charismatic...whatever."
Everyone just sat and looked at me! But it's true...hindsight is great, but when God moves right in our midst, do we recognize it? If I were Peter's wife how would I have felt about my husband dropping our whole livelihood and taking off with some guy who just walked by and said, "Come with me..." ? A whole lot harder when it's actually taking place in our world.
Susie, I'm totally with you. I like to move really slow when I think God is calling me, and I wonder what would be different if I just dropped it all and followed. I think highly of those disciples...looking back, but in the moment, I think I'd have told them they were nuts! It is so easy to say how awesome God is when you can see the whole time line, but in the moment, when you can't see the future or know what is in store, it is easier to decide I'd rather not be so emotional/charismatic/crazy...because that can't really be from the Spirit can it?! I wonder what we've lost by being so "level headed?"
ReplyDeleteYeah...really makes me think...
ReplyDeleteI read the chapter long before reading your comments....and the verse that spoke to me the most was the same one you spoke of: "Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
ReplyDeleteI can survive on bread, but to really live I need to fill myself with God's word. Lately it seems like when given the chance to read a Christian book or the Bible, I choose the Christian book. The Bible takes more effort on my part to read it and understand it and think about how it applies to me. Instead I end up getting God's word second hand, filtered by what other people think is relevant. I'm short changing myself by not reading the Bible through my own eyes. How else am I going to find out what God wants me to hear? I think its time to get off this diet and start feasting on God's word!
Well said Sherry! I have been doing the same exact thing.
ReplyDeleteSherry you are so right!!!! I pick the christian book too because it takes less effort. I am feasting with you now though :0) No dieting here...in either sense of the word! lol.
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