Blog Archives

The School of the Spirit . . .

9/30/2019

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
Philippians 1:9-10 NIV
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Anyone like going to school? Most of us are happy to leave our school years behind. No one wants to go back to being an awkward 13 year old! Even though we may not want to go back to the school years, I think all of us would say that it was worth it. We learned a lot, matured, and even gained wisdom in the process! One of the gifts of education is the ability to discern right and wrong.

Even though we are not technically in school right now, we are in the school of the Spirit. Through the power of the Spirit we are able to discern spiritual matters and situations. Here Paul encourage the Philippians to grow more and more in knowledge so that they would be able to discern (or know), “what is best . . . “ Are you growing in knowledge today? How’s your discernment? If you want more knowledge and growth in your faith you must be in the school of the Spirit.

Consider your schooling in the Spirit today - what are you doing to grow closer to the Spirit?

0 Comments

Transform Suffering

9/23/2019

0 Comments

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope - Romans 5:3-4 NIV
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Does it need to be said? I mean, really - NO ONE likes suffering. We avoid suffering at all costs. We spend most of our money, time, and effort to help our children (or grandchildren!) avoid suffering - both physical and emotional. This is not unusual and it is even understandable. I’m in the same boat as all of you. This is a result (for the most part) of our culture of comfort. People seek out the most comfortable furniture, cars, and even jobs. Simply put: the more comfort we have, the less suffering we have. At least this is the formula.

As usual, the Bible challenges contemporary culture. Paul here in Romans teaches us that suffering is important, indeed essential, to our own spiritual growth. When we suffer we have the opportunity to build our faith. We trust that God is in our suffering and will carry us through. How will you build faith through comfort? When you have all you need - what need to you have of Christ? Suffering teaches us to depend on Christ. When we depend on Christ we are able to survive the challenges of our sufferings . . . even thrive!

Today, transform your suffering into hope through leaning on Christ. Don’t avoid suffering, embrace it as you build your faith.

0 Comments

The School of the Spirit . . .

Transform Suffering

Authors

Archives

Categories