There is a lot of weird stiff that went down in today's scriptures. Let me just play out the scenario real quick about Simeon and Anna. I am not sure how to explain these two people because we don't see anyone like these two in our culture except for the guy who stands on the corner in NYC screaming "Jesus is COMING" and the crazy lady who brings the tambourine to church. None-the less, they were filled with the same Holy Spirit that we are filled with and because of that, acted a little weird. Simeon comes to the baby dedication and snatches Jesus up and starts screaming that he's God. Anna then tells everyone that this baby will redeem God's people. That's one weird day to say the least.
One thing that spoke pretty clearly to me when I was reading this was the idea that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. This is a very strong concern for me and I think that as a small group, we need to be asking this question. Are we growing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men?
Notice that it does not talk about growing in our commitment to church attendance, to ministry, to small group attendance, or any other religious activity. Instead it addresses our spiritual wisdom, our physical stature, and our favor with people and the Lord.
It seems that God is not impressed in what we do for him; instead he is concerned about our growth. My prayer for our group is that we would all grow. We are all on different pages in our walk, however we need to all be moving forward. We have to understand that it's OK not be OK; but...its not OK to stay there. We all need to be moving forward.
So......................
Jen Shomo: Are you growing in your faith? How?
Stone's: How are you overcoming your sin?
Mike and Celia: What areas in your life do you need to grow in wisdom and favor with God and others? Is anything holding you back?
Suddoth's: What are your plans to grow up in your faith?
Jon M aka the Baptist: Are there things in your life that are hindering your growth?
Kelly: Your a new believer, that is when people typically see the most growth...is that true for you? If so, tell us about it.
Steve and Alice: What areas in your lives is God currently working on changing?
Beth: How is 3 kids and being pregnant hindering your walk? Is it at all?
Holly and Ryan: How is all that you been through the past few years grown you spiritually?
I am asking myself similar questions. Lately I feel like I have been in a desert. I feel like when I get quite, God is not there as often. I feel like I don't hear him as clearly as I have in the past. I am concerned that it is because I am coming to the word for information instead of a heart transformation opportunity. How can I change that behavior?
Hey everyone! Just getting a chance to finally read Luke and leave a comment...I think I am overcoming sin by developing more of a love relationship with Christ. As I praise Him and thank Him more throughout the day, that takes care of much of the sin problem! Of course, I still struggle with things. But as I heard on AM 830 this morning, the Christian life isn't about trying harder to be Christ-like, but about Christ Himself living in us. It's not getting things from Him, like: joy, peace, help, etc. But the fact that He IS joy, peace, help, strength, etc. "All God's promises are yes in CHRIST." (2 Cor. 1:20) It's about having more of HIM!!
ReplyDeleteYou asked: Are you growing in your faith? How? I do believe I am. This however is a very hard thing I believe to measure for yourself... I do however see how my faith has become stronger by choices I make and the things i put my priorities in. To share with everyone how i personally grow is very simple. 1. by staying in the word! This shows how to obedient to God by reading, remembering it and applying it to life. 2. having a prayer life. 3.Worship. I love experiencing the joy of worship on Sunday mornings and through out the week!! 4. Fellowship with believers: small group and during the week. 5. Sharing our faith with others (i would have to say need more work in this area.) When i do these things on a consistant basis I know i am growing. How can you not?
ReplyDeleteWhile I can't speak specifically for Jon, as we have not had a chance to discuss this, I can say that my plans to grow up my faith are to become more knowledgeable about God's word, to learn to trust in Him and His plan, not mine, and to learn to be more open with others in order to share my testimony so that I can be a witness for God's work in my own life instead of being my usual shy self. In order to accomplish this, I am attempting to be more dedicated to reading his word, and understanding it, letting go of the reins and giving my worries to God, which for me means more prayer because I have always struggled with control, and just putting myself out there and allowing myself to be vulnerable around others so that I can open up and share God's message.
ReplyDeleteMy plan for growing my faith is to make time to get in the word. For me this has been a difficult task for me. I know that not being in the work is holding back my spiritual growth. I also need to stop letting the enemy break down what I know is right. I know what gods plans are for me, however I alway seem to question them and find holes.
ReplyDeleteI love the honesty here.
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