Lately I have been finding that only God’s Word satisfies me. For many years, my time in God’s Word has been accompanied by a “devotional” in which an author would expound upon the scripture reading, ask questions to prompt further thought, and offer an application. I have been richly blessed by this format, and the many authors who have encouraged my faith and taught me much. Recently I am finding that the only thing that satisfies the deepest part of me is God’s Word. I feel less distracted from God when it is just me and His Word. I feel more prone to “sit” with the scriptures and consider more thoroughly who God is. I also have been reading slower, trying to soak in more of what is being said. It is very peaceful. I am finding more rest. I really can’t explain the change. All I know is that God’s Word is nourishing me in a way that no human author can.
I know it may seem kind of silly, but sometimes I think I used devotionals because they were easier. I didn’t have to think as much. I could have others direct my thoughts to the central points of the passage. I also think that there was a part of me that found the distraction that came from someone else’s thoughts to be soothing, because I did not have to stare so intently into God’s perfect Word. I don’t think I am having any super-spiritual experience. Nor do I think that there is anything wrong with having a devotional accompany the reading of God’s word. I am really not trying to teach anything in this blog, or offer some form of wisdom. I am just sharing, and perhaps coming to realize in more personal ways the truth of this passage:
12 For the word of God is alive 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.” – Hebrews 4:12
For Jesus,
Rob