July 27 2010

If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine . . . —John 7:17

(Music and video click on link) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubyVHdvVMnc&feature=related

The golden rule to follow to obtain spiritual understanding is not one of intellectual pursuit, but one of obedience. If a person wants scientific knowledge, then intellectual curiosity must be his guide. But if he desires knowledge and insight into the teachings of Jesus Christ, he can only obtain it through obedience. If spiritual things seem dark and hidden to me, then I can be sure that there is a point of disobedience somewhere in my life. Intellectual darkness is the result of ignorance, but spiritual darkness is the result of something that I do not intend to obey.

No one ever receives a word from God without instantly being put to the test regarding it. We disobey and then wonder why we are not growing spiritually. Jesus said, “If you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift” ( Matthew 5:23-24 ). He is saying, in essence, “Don’t say another word to me; first be obedient by making things right.” The teachings of Jesus hit us where we live. We cannot stand as impostors before Him for even one second. He instructs us down to the very last detail. The Spirit of God uncovers our spirit of self-vindication and makes us sensitive to things that we have never even thought of before.

When Jesus drives something home to you through His Word, don’t try to evade it. If you do, you will become a religious impostor. Examine the things you tend simply to shrug your shoulders about, and where you have refused to be obedient, and you will know why you are not growing spiritually. As Jesus said, “First . . . go . . ..” Even at the risk of being thought of as fanatical, you must obey what God tells you.

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July 27, 2010

Journal Entry for Today-JDV

I once heard then wrote; “You can have as much of Jesus as you want”. I want more.

And God says…”I stand at the door; all you need do is open your heart. Open your heart to Me, not just in spiritual things, but for all things. If you need knowledge, wisdom, or your daily bread…..seek Me. When you are searching for your next thought, idea, sentence or job, seek Me. Seek Me in all things and you will find Me.

I am not the God of some things. I am the God of all. You can stay connected to My power, understanding, loving kindness, knowledge and wisdom by allowing Me to live through you. Give Me your first thought about any issue or opportunity or problem or dilemma. Ask and you shall receive.  My peace and grace will be with you in all things_

Journal DJR       Good morning Lord.   I bolded so much in today’s devo, I felt like bolding the whole thing.   It just rings right to me that obedience is the way to intimacy and further connection with you.    I wonder where to start… I thought of one relationship to repair, but then I read the scripture about going to the brother and it seemed to be the reverse case … the brother doesn’t have anything against me.  He already took it.   Won his case and I paid him some money.   I think he’s self satisfied.    It’s my heart that is still a little bruised.   I think there are other verses that address that issue.    I will be needing them more and more.    Please direct me.

As I am moving to Virginia, I am sensing that there is more to this than just “following the Grandbabies”   which I have stated as the reason … and it’s good and true, but I’m sensing that there is more that I’m not sure about.   Thru my friends, Steve and Marta, I am being introduced to ministry leaders, political leaders, etc…    I’m looking for wisdom…

There is no cookie cutter or checklist that will be fully accurate.  Stay by me and you will know and walk the straight path.   There are many options that will look good but aren’t my best for you.    Only as you stay in peace will you hear my voice,  yes or no, right or left.   keep your peace meter high.