The Man in the Mirror Blog

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. - Col 2:8

Today’s passage reminds us that the process of renewing our minds through Scripture is not without opposition. Other voices try to gain a hearing with deceptive philosophies and traditions. Jesus met a group of synagogue leaders whose questions revealed their focus on details without allowing God to change their hearts and minds. Jesus told them, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Matthew 22:29). Jesus’ reply illuminates two things that stand in the way of Biblical transformation. We either lack the Scriptural knowledge, or we lack the ability to act upon it.

I’ve interviewed many godly men and women, and I found every one of them had a love relationship with God that came from steeping themselves in God’s holy Word. The Bible is both the knowledge and power of God. We are transformed as we experience the residue of communion with the Living Word, which brings sinners into the power and presence of the Almighty God. We don’t have to micro-manage transformation. Just be with God. MIMBS 6

Daily Reading: Exodus 28:1-43, Matthew 25:31-26:13, Psalm 31:9-18 ,Proverbs 8:12-13

Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. As a result, many of them believed … Acts 17:11-12

Most of us will not invest regular time in Bible reading if we do not understand and appreciate its purpose. I have two reasons for committing to a regular time of study. The first is communion with God. I enjoy discovering new things about God’s character and His desire and purpose. As these things are revealed to me, I feel like I know Him better and love Him more. I also read so I can mature in my ability to distinguish right from wrong, and in my ability to choose what I know to be right. I am striving to reach a point where I don’t own my Bible, but rather it owns me.

One thing that helps me stick to this regular commitment is that I’ve set aside a specific time. Early morning works best for me. I get up, pour a cup of coffee, and then sit in a comfortable chair where I won’t be distracted. Knowing the purpose of my reading helps me plan for it and stay committed to the task. MIMBS 5

Because He loves us, God sometimes will allow things to be so hard. we cannot make it without Him...