“But in your hearts regard Christ as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” 1 Peter 3:1-15
Over the past year, we talked a lot about how God is writing His story on our lives and how important it is to tell that story to those around us. In the process of this, I have been thinking a lot about how God writes His story. There are as many varied ways He has written it, as there are people who have accepted Him. And there are so many ways to share it.
So, this year we are going to explore the variety of ways to share our faith and discover who God is and how incredible it is that we could even know a little about Him.
We will be discussing 3 ways in which God can use us for His glory and to tell His story. The first is investigation. We will seek out the truth in the Scriptures and ask hard questions and seek out the sometimes surprising truth about God and His plan. This will involve some struggle and uncomfortable answers, which is ok.
The second thing is illumination. We will ask the Holy Spirit to open up God’s word to us so we will be able to see the truth leap out of the pages into our very lives. We will notice things we may have never seen before and come to conclusions which may be difficult to wrap our minds around, which is ok.
The third is inspiration. Based upon the truth of His word, we will seek to act upon what we have learned. Whether it be through some sort of artistic expression or some practical change within our very lives, we will have this spiritual motivation to move in such a way that is being led by the Spirit and not our own volition.
One way we will be practicing this is through our daily Bible reading. This year we have devised a book or digital PDF for you to work through this year. There is less reading but hopefully more contemplating on what you have read. There will be some questions to guide you. I would encourage you to not use the study notes in your study bible until you have prayerfully sought the answers on your own. You have the Holy Spirit within you to guide you and lead you. Use Him. There will also be a QR code or a link which will help you think through these verses.
Our prayer is that our principles and mission starts to meld together in you and we see the fruits of a deeper relationship with Christ.
Following Him,
Jeff