If our time with Christ is a journey, the journey of a disciple, what is my next step? How do I know?
Following Jesus is far more than information. There are people who have vast amounts of Bible knowledge and history (or trivia) who are not disciples. They are Pharisees, collecting information to show their knowledge at an opportune time to impress others with how much they know.
What is the difference in growing as a disciple or a Pharisee? The difference is about how we are using that knowledge. Are we learning to learn or are we using it to uncover more about ourselves, application for life and growth in our walk with our Father? James talks about the one who looks at Scripture as one who examines their life. (1:22-25) If we do what we read about and examine our lives we are blessed. If we only read and learn for knowledge’s sake, we are like a fool who forgets what he sees after looking in the mirror. Jesus said something similar. “He who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who builds his house on the rock.” (Matt. 7:24) I think that is the key. Are we practicing His principles for life? When we read God’s eternal word are we looking for continual transformation or are we checking something off our personal holiness list to feel good about ourselves (or are we feeling self-sufficient enough we don’t think we need to read at all)?
Perhaps the difference is in how we define the word “know”. Do we know the Christian life, as in have the trivia down and can tell you the right answers? (I know it in my head.) Or do we know these truths, as in having experienced them and are living them? (I know in my heart.)
As I look at my own life, I don’t want to be a Pharisee. I desire to experience a fresh walk that will enable me to finish this journey I am on. I want to know Christ deeply and have Him transform me fully. The next step is just before me. It is new. It is often challenging.
Jesus is our powerful Redeemer. He has come to set us free from the power of sin. And we hear that. Perhaps a more insidious power that holds us is the idea of self-sufficiency (that I have already arrived). Our Redeemer can help us with that too!
Precious Jesus, You are the One who redeems my life from the pit, the One who has a future and a hope for my life in the Kingdom of God. Lead me in hearing Your words. Lead me in considering how they need to alter my life to become more what You want. Save me from myself. Save me for You and Your will alone. Help me put into practice what You are speaking to me. Help me take the next step with You.
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