Searching For Truth


Following the STAR method of reading the bible, really helps Truth to jump out. This is what I read this morning, and what I got out of it. S = Scripture read. Just write out the verse or verses that jump out at you. T = Thoughts. Write out what pops in your thoughts about this verse or verses. A = Application. What does it mean, or how can you apply this verse to your life and the lives around you? Write it out. R = Response. What is your response to the verse(s) that jumped out at you? It can be a thought, an action, or even a prayer to our heavenly Father. However you feel you are to respond to Him, that is what you write here.

S: John 5:39-40 (MSG) “You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about Me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren’t willing to receive from Me the life you say you want.”

T: I believe this is an example of “head knowledge” instead of “heart knowledge”. There are people that seem to believe that they have Jesus, yet they keep searching the bible for their ‘eternal life’ like the very book itself is what will give them the life they seek. Then there are others (like me) that seek the bible for the truth, the love, the Spirit to reveal things that Jesus wants them to see, hear, and believe. The faith that grows by reading the bible is different than the knowledge that grows from learning more out of the bible.

A: I need to remember that the bible is the Word of God, that the Spirit guides me through it to the Truth = Jesus. That Jesus is the root of my salvation and eternal life, not the bible. It is my relationship with Him and Him alone that keeps me going and growing.

R: Oh Papa! I am so sad that so many people “think” they are getting close to You and will have eternal life, yet they are only increasing their “knowledge” of You – and NOT the actual relationship with You.
    Oh! What just struck me, are people in prison. How they may get involved in a bible study or hear messages about You and try all they can to stay in line with Your words. Thinking it is the “study” that is saving them. Then they get out of prison. They have a hard time entering society. They stop talking to You. Following Your ways. Hearing Your voice. They revert back to old ways and old friends, pushing You aside. Did they REALLY have faith, or were they just trying to stay out of trouble while in prison?!?!
    Oh yes Father! I see that this happens to a LOT of people! At events like Harvest, Christmas or Easter services, revivals they pass by or go to, concerts, and even movies. Yet, sadly, they are like the seeds that have fallen by the side of the road. Papa – I pray in the name of Jesus for those in our life that need this TRUE relationship with You. Oh Lord, I pray for mine and Todd’s faith to grow stronger in You – that we too will seek You and Your will, not our own. Let us not get caught up in the “words” on the bible, but You the Word and Truth of the bible! :-) 



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