Monday, September 22, 2008

Following the Spirit

In a book I just began reading the other day, the author tells of an of an old phrase for the Holy Spirit that originates with our Celtic brethren. An Gedah-Glas means "the Wild Goose" and provides and interesting depiction of the Holy Spirit and rather accurately describes my on personal experience in following the Spirit's leading in my life. It is challenging and strangely haunting to try and see God at work... leading my life. I want to stay in tune and on the path, but it seems a bit murky at times. There are moments that I feel like I am right in line and then other moments where I seem to be out of sorts.
Paul tells us in Galatians, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us stay in step with the Spirit." My desire is to stay in step, no matter what the days of my life bring me. Satan may throw all that Hell has to offer at me, but in the end I long to be found faithful.
May God be glorified and honored!!

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Spiritual Growth

When you think about growing spiritually, what comes to mind? For many people it seems vague at best, while for others it is simply overwhelming. To say, "I want to be more like Jesus.", seems like the unreachable elusive goal for many followers of Christ. The other day I had an encouraging conversation with one of our GSU football coaches. Let me tell you the story...
To tell you the truth, this semester has been quite refreshing thus far. I have the privilege of meeting with some of the coaches once a week for prayer and Bible study. We meet at the Parrish building at 6:30 for about an hour. The first week, one guy in particular seemed a little reserved for the first 15 minutes or so and then he began opening up about his life. The morning was filled with great conversation and discussion as we shared our thoughts while we read various Scriptures. Later that evening I saw him before the players Bible study and he was so appreciative for the morning's gathering. He said, "Stewart, I have had the God moment. But I want to know how to grow." I could sense his earnest desire to grow and deepen his relationship with Christ. He went on to say, "I have a lot of responsibility. I am a coach, a husband, and a father. I want to be the best I can be."
How about you? How about me? I mentioned that it is best to begin with a pattern of daily prayer and Bible reading. He had asked for a "workout" that would help him. So I emailed him a list of scriptures and a few questions he could pray through each day. I told him that the Lord would honor his desire to grow and that the Lord would begin working in his life. This is true for him and each of us... I need it!!
I read a great quote the other day... "If sin quenches the work of the Spirit in us, a daily dose of Scripture quickens the work of the Spirit in us."