Greetings in the name of “the Game Changer”, Jesus Christ – THE Risen Saviour! Another autumn morning in the Kingdom without the bright sunshine…a little dreary on the outside. How is your “inner” weather condition? I trust that you enjoyed your weekend and Monday-Tuesday with many adventures and blessings. Today I will be praying for you, asking Father to communicate His love and concern for you in tangible ways that will make you smile.
I like the atmosphere of a coffee shop, especially when it is a little busy and there is a hum of dialogue as people tell – retell their stories and express their opinions on the latest news story or political comments or sport scores or local gossip. Often I can picture Jesus sitting in the midst of groups listening, laughing, frowning, and sharing his insights with a gentle confidence that encourages understanding and continued conversations.
It is a similar sense I get when I relax with a book and read an author who has become a friend to me. I have many “old” friends who I have shared many conversations with — I have been known to express my disagreement, ask questions, have a chuckle with….I know, it is a little one-sided and should only be done in private. I enjoy meeting “new” friends as well – those authors who express ideas and insights in ways that challenge the ‘status quo’…even a little counter-intuitive at times.
Yesterday, I met two “new” friends who gave me some insight and definitions and I would like to share with you. First, “the two main principles of spiritual authority are trust and obedience…Faith in God is knowing that He exists, while trust is knowing that He is in control of your life. Trust in God is a must to help combat spiritual warfare. We can’t pretend that spiritual warfare doesn’t exist. It does… – many say we are entering the days of Elijah, and that is true, but we must remember that those were days of rebellion, wickedness, idol worship, and defiance of the Word of God.” – Charlie Kluege, The Tallit.
Second, “Transformation is the continuing work of the gospel in our lives that never stops. It’s a lifelong journey…the heart may melt under the Word, but not be melted down by the Word…our faith changes as we grow-the gospel continues to grow in my mind. The gospel doesn’t actually change. We do….the gospel works to save and transform, but it doesn’t stop there. The gospel also restores and makes all things new.” – Brandon Hatmaker, A Mile Wide.
Those are a couple thoughts that I have been kicking around…or maybe it is those thoughts that are kicking me around. Be blessed!