June 17, 2008

Hello,

Today I was reading in the passage of Acts 17 10 through . In the beginning it talks about how Paul and Silas traveled to Berea and how all of the people were more open minded than previous places they had been. It says how they would take all of the stuff Paul and Silas preached and counterchecked it with the bible. I think that is a very good approach to making sure not only do we get the full extent of the message, but to continually make sure our leaders, pastors, and etc. are coinciding with the bible. It says that as they did this, more of them couldn't help but come to Christ. I think many of us (including myself) listen to a message and just assume that it is from God; and not to undermine any of our pastors (indluding mine; i love him dearly and think he is an incredible man of God) but sometimes biblical myths are past down the generations without any real consideration as to whether it is on track with God. I think this is the devil trying to convince us to not take any thought into what God has to say and just assuming all that anyone says about the bible is true. That is a very dangerous place to be I believe because of what the devil could do with that foothold. My pastor has recently (past month) spoken on this, and I am just now realizing how much in my life I assume things such phrase as "Well if it is meant to happen God will do it" are true; without having taken any thought whatsoever. I don't believe this is true. The fact is he gives us free will, and although he knows what is going to happen; doesn't necessarily do anything because he doesn't know if he has permission. In accordance to what my friend luke has said, I think I believe (because of free will) God can't particularly do anything in our lives unless we; in a way; allow him. It does sound odd but I think there is truth in that statement. Because of that; what is supposed to happen according to God's plan might not happen because of our own faults (not asking God and just assuming he knows you will allow him instead of earnestly and openly telling him ) and not because God was supposed to take care of it. We do have to cast our cares on the father, but also remember we have a job to do. Initiative is needed.
This is just one myth my pastor has pointed out and I have sort of; meditated on. If you feel my thoughts are incorrect according to the bible I would love for you to get a verse or thought and confront me with you. We are a family; and part of our job as a family is to help keep each other on track.

-Jordan-