– Secret Place Insights –
Dear One, I have never looked at John 3:16 the same since. Since when? The ‘when’ was so many years ago that I have not only forgotten how many years; I have forgotten how many decades.
How did it come about? I cannot remember that either. But in my past, through the call to discipleship, at some point, I found myself disciplining a former nun. Yes, you read that correctly. It surprised me too. Oh, yes, I did feel inadequate, and yes, I did question God about it.
Finally, during one of the two-hour weekly meetings, I said to the woman, “I don’t understand why you want to meet with me? How can I be of help to you, a nun? Surely, you are more familiar with Scripture than I am?”
She sat back a little, and answered nonchalantly, as if I should have figured it out myself. “It’s simple. You are teaching me how to apply the Word in everyday life.”
Instantly, her words rang true, “Ah, yes, I have heard that before, more than once.”
So, I quit questioning my place in her life. That was, until a few weeks later, when it came time for us to discuss John 3:16. I did not know what I could do with it that would be insightful or refreshing to her. “Lord, what can I bring to the table to guide my friend into a deeper understanding or appreciation of this verse?”
Yes, I do ask God a lot of questions, and when I do, I do not expect immediate answers. So, when one comes, God always catches me by surprise. The following was one of those rare surprises.
The instruction which was given was to lay out the verse as shown and then thoughtfully, and reverently, linger on each word or set of words for a minute, or two.
For God —
so loved —
the world —
that He gave —
His one —
and only —
Son,—
that whoever —
Believes —
in Him —
shall not perish,—
but have—
eternal life.
When I had finished, the depth of what God had done for everyone had moved me to greater appreciation. I left home for the meeting eager to share the verse.
May you be blessed this week with a few quiet moments to thus ponder God’s wondrous proclamation. If you happen to share it with anyone, and are asked what it means to ‘Believe in Him,’ here is what I have learned and shared from Lessons in Christian Discipleship:
You do not grow into being a Christian. Becoming
a Christian is a very definite act of the will. You
must decide about Christ. If you want to receive
Christ, you can pray in faith this prayer. Remember,
becoming a real Christian is not just saying words
but receiving Christ (as Lord of your life).
“Dear Lord, I know I have done wrong. I am willing
to turn from my sins. I believe Jesus Christ died for me.
Please come into my life and forgive me of my sins. I
receive you into my life as my Savior and Lord as best
I know how right now. Thank you for forgiving me, and
for making me Your child. Amen.”
“For whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13
Blessings for another week,
Susanne
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