Pastor's Ponderings, June 6, 2016

Let Us Purposely Seek God’s Word

In the May 27, 2016 edition of USA Today, an article indicated fifteen children in southwest China, between ages 6 and 15, scale a cliff about 2,625 feet high multiple times a month between their home and a school in Atuler village taking an hour and a half in their commute. Api Jiti, the head of the children's farming community, told Beijing News that "seven or eight" people have died during the climb. It is amazing how they are so dedicated to getting an education and turning away from illiteracy. 

Oh, what if those who love the Lord could be just as dedicated to hear a word from the Lord! When have you seen those who love the Lord eager to hear what God is saying?  God is looking for someone who will turn away from the world like these children are turning away from a lack of knowledge and looking to get His word in their lives (Revelation 2:29). 

God is looking for a people that are committed to learning about Him and His word (James 1:21).  These people long to taste His word knowing they can grow in their relationship to Him (1 Peter 2:2, 3). In the Bible, the apostle Paul wanted to know God so intimately that he could identify with His crucifixion and suffering (Philippians 3:10).

This week, let us strive to learn God’s word, stay before Him, press pass our drowsiness (yes, pastors get drowsy, too), and discipline our minds. Let us seek His word with a determined mind so that God can give us all of His hidden wisdom, direction, and blessings that He longs to share with us.

Revelation 2:29

New International Version (NIV)

12 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

James 1:21

New International Version (NIV)

21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

1 Peter 2:2, 3
New International Version (NIV)

2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,
3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Philippians 3:10
New International Version (NIV)

10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,