Those of us who are most familiar with the Spirit's promises are in the greatest danger. ... familiarity may not breed contempt, but it takes the edge off awe ... promises that drop the jaws or widen the eyes of newcomers but provoke no more than a raised eyebrow in the old-timers who have ceased to dream.
Since I saw it, I've been meditating on it (kind of in the background.) It struck home with me because I for a little while have had the spiritual doldrums. My faith in God is strong, but I seem to lack zeal for my personal study of the Word, fellowship with my dearest friends and with people in general. A sort of fatigue.
And friends have noticed (bless you!) "Where are you?" they say.
During this time of pondering, I've been reminded of something my friend Bill said many years ago during a Bible study. Quoting some preacher somewhere, he contrasted the new believer with the "spiritually mature" as "Ignorance on fire" versus "Knowledge on ice." If you've been a believer for a long time as I have, perhaps you've become aware of how easy it is to lose the sense of wonder about God and all he has done, is doing, all that he is. God wants us to know him better and better, but we must guard against a familiarity that "takes the edge off awe."
I don't really know [yet] if this lines up with the sense of fatigue that I'm currently feeling, but I intend to heed McGuiggan's danger warning. In the past when I have encountered people at various plateaus in their walk with the Lord, I have counseled them to read Paul's letter to the Philippians every day for a week. It isn't a long letter and it is a great tonic. For encouragement and uplifting, it can't be beat! So as God leads me out of this funk (as he has always done) I'm taking my own prescription for the next week. Will you join me?
4 comments:
Although we are hardly able to still meet for coffee due to the distance. I enjoy your blog tho'ts. It's not the same, but if it is any consolation, I appreciate the investment of your life and transparency thru' which you live. Thank you for your words. May you be encouraged in that as you have shared your identity in Christ with me (and others), you have a legacy that you have passed on(and still do)that will surpass both of our comprehensions. Keep quoting!
Sometimes physical issues can cause emotional and spiritual fatigue as well. Don't let the dry spells get you down! Curl up in God's lap and let Him love you!
YES! I will join you.
You have given me this advice before and well, I need it again as well. May childhood wonder, faith and imagination ignite our path.
hugs to joyce
miss your class
-please pray for our small group of growing believers here.
Okay. I've been reading Philippians as you prescribed. It IS a great tonic. I also bumped over to The Message and read Peterson's take on the letter. All good. Hope this regimen is beginning to work its restorative powers on you!
Post a Comment