“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.” James 1:23-24 (NIV)
God’s Word is a mirror. As we read and hear God’s Word, we begin to see God for who He is and we begin to see ourselves as we really are in light of who God is. God’s Word reveals God’s holiness and our sinfulness. We have the opportunity to move from information to examination. In our spiritual growth, we seek to allow God’s Word to penetrate our lives.
- “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalms 139:23-24 (NIV)
- “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Heb 4:12 (NIV)
Are you willing to go to the next level and ask God to search your heart? Will you begin reading God’s Word and hearing God’s Word with the intent of examination? Invite the light of God’s Word to expose areas of darkness or neglect that have embedded in your life. Confess known sin and fully surrender to the Spirit’s control. Walk circumspectly in light of what God reveals to you through His Word.
God is for you. God has already demonstrated His unconditional love by giving His best, Jesus, to die on the cross to pay the penalty for your sin. You are forgiven! You are free to draw near to God and allow Him to draw near to you.
Move from information to examination. Are you ready to go to the next level?
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Executive Pastor