Published 4/4/19
Read Luke 6:1-2
One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grain fields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. Some of the Pharisees asked, "Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?"
Reflect
· Does your faith often feel stuck--bogged down by rituals and rules?
· How do we get eternal life? Jesus makes that clear, and it sounds deceptively simple, doesn't it? (Hint: Know God, know Jesus., the end.) How do we nurture a deep relationship with Jesus?
· Name three things that you can do every day that will help you grow closer to Jesus. Are these practical steps--things that you will actually do? When will you get started?
Those who are thriving spiritually have clued in to a secret: They know that Christianity is unlike any other world religion. In fact, they understand that it isn't really a religion at all; it's a relationship. It's an intimate, minute-by-minute walk with a Person--Jesus Christ. With this distinction driving their hearts and minds, they have found their place within the body. They try to avoid wasting their time on pursuits that counter God's will. They are guided by a clear personal vision of (1) who Christ is, (2) how to connect with Him, and (3) the keys to "putting off" or "putting away" the characteristics of our old life, and "putting on" characteristics of our new life. (See Ephesians 4:22-32.)
Many successful Christ-followers try to zero-in on how God wants them to live and what He wants them to accomplish in life. Many have an accurate and precise picture of the work that expresses them best. They have identified their talents and are using them. As a result, these individuals experience profound and lasting benefits: reduced stress, more balance, a more productive career, and a more satisfying life.
Pray
Lord, help me to leave behind bland rituals and stale religion so I can follow You in a truly living, exciting way. Amen. Don't just read about faith or settle for secondhand knowledge about Jesus. Ask Him for the strength and courage to give up your old life. Ask Him to show you how to experience Him daily.