Experiencing God - Day 32
Day 32 - Tuesday, March 19
Read 1 John 2
Highlight
In Henry Blackaby’s book Experiencing God he points out that obedience to God is a moment of truth where what we do aligns with what we believe about who God is. Here we see John affirming that obedience to Jesus and his teachings are the litmus test by which we can know whether someone is a true disciple. Jesus’ own words are likely echoing in John’s mind as he appeals to these followers: “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.” (John 14:23-24).
Jesus, who was himself God, submitted himself in obedience to God the Father. He models obedience for us because he knows that submission to the will of the Father is always for our good. Blackaby says it this way, “God loves you and wants what is best for you. That is why he gives you his commands and instructions. His instructions are not to limit or restrict you but to free you to experience the most meaningful life possible”.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Read 1 John 2
Highlight
In Henry Blackaby’s book Experiencing God he points out that obedience to God is a moment of truth where what we do aligns with what we believe about who God is. Here we see John affirming that obedience to Jesus and his teachings are the litmus test by which we can know whether someone is a true disciple. Jesus’ own words are likely echoing in John’s mind as he appeals to these followers: “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.” (John 14:23-24).
Jesus, who was himself God, submitted himself in obedience to God the Father. He models obedience for us because he knows that submission to the will of the Father is always for our good. Blackaby says it this way, “God loves you and wants what is best for you. That is why he gives you his commands and instructions. His instructions are not to limit or restrict you but to free you to experience the most meaningful life possible”.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Posted in Experiencing God