I shared some reflections a few weeks ago. Although I've been a Bible learner and disciple of Christ for many years, I do not yet have this walk figured out. It's filled with missteps and mistakes, and even when I re-read some of my prior posts, I can see how I could have represented the truth more fully and adequately. It is humbling to know that God still brings truth even in our tiny bit of understanding.
Today, we start a Bible study I've refused to write for months. It is a chapter out of my dark soul and a testament to the bright communion God showed me over a long, swarthy night. I know I need to sit still and get some of the messy, messy work God has graciously done down on paper. I dread it and welcome it all in one.
I have to be careful about what magazines and books I buy to peruse, the shows and movies I watch, and other "intakes" of life. When I fail to guard my heart (Proverbs 4:23), it causes my heart to have "the wants." I begin desire or daydreaming of something else instead of practicing contentment in the present moment.
This chapter is a word for the discouraged. The broken. The weak.
John 9 was orchestrated from the beginning for the ones who have been told they’re not enough. That they’ll never make it. For people who’ve been talked down to, pushed aside, and told to leave. This study is for the believers who believe they made one choice, and it cost them an irredeemable life…
In some of the ancient manuscripts, John 7:53-8:11 is not found. Where it is found, it is not always in this location in John’s gospel. Even if you believe it’s a misfit passage, I’m thankful that God has continually shown Himself to misfits of society (i.e., me). May that be an encouragement to you as you consider your own caste system.
The Lord is speaking to you. He’s speaking to you about the state of your temple (your heart). He’s speaking to you about your belief v. your commitment. He’s speaking to you about not becoming calloused and hardened as you travel the road to Calvary…the narrow path where your will comes to die. Listen up.
