We recently purchased
a new vehicle. It is a newer, small SUV and quite different from what we
have been driving. We purchased it on a Saturday afternoon and our time
was tight. As we left for another appointment Joe, the salesman, invited
us back on Monday to program our phones and answer any questions we may
have. This was an offer we gladly took him up on.
Before returning to
the dealership, we spent time going through the owner’s manual seeking as many
answers as we could find on our own. By doing this we learned many things
about our new vehicle. When Monday afternoon arrived, we had a list of
questions. Joe helped us with all of them. When we left, our questions
had been answered and we had an invitation to return with any other questions
as they came up. I am reasonably sure that more questions will
arise. Skimming through the manual, we found features we were not even
aware existed in the vehicle. During our meeting, we could only ask about
the features were already aware of. At this point my husband and I feel we
don’t even know what there is to not know about.
This process has me
thinking about our spiritual lives. God has designed this life for us,
much like the vehicle we purchased. He has provided benefits and
blessings for each of our lives. And similar to a vehicle’s maintenance
schedule, He has also given us responsibilities. These can be found in the
Bible.
As with our owner’s
manual, we should both read the Bible in its entirety, as well as look to
specific areas for accurate direction. Reading through the Word of God
will open our eyes to the truth of all that is available to us and all that is
expected of us. Every time we do so, new things will catch our eyes and
our hearts. It is far too much to take in with one read. When we
have specific areas that we are seeking truth about, we can study passages that
relate to that topic. This will bring light to God’s direction for each area of
our lives. “Study and be eager and do your utmost to
present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause
to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly
handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” (2 Timothy
2:15 AMP) Pastors and teachers fill a role very similar
to the role Joe plays for our new car. Because they have knowledge of
God’s word and ways, they offer assistance to us. Along with the knowledge,
they also often possess insight into the meaning of many passages. This
is conveyed both in teachings and in personal conversations. Just as Joe
has studied the details of our vehicle and offered us information about the
SUV, preachers and teachers study and then present the Word of God in messages,
classes, sermons and personal meetings. “And
His gifts were [varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us] some to be
apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and
expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling
missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. His
intention was the perfecting and the full equipping of the saints
(His consecrated people), [that they should do] the work of ministering toward
building up Christ’s body (the church),” (Ephesians 4:11-12 AMP) This
teaching and counseling alone cannot convey all the information about a vehicle
and falls far short of everything we need. Personal study is cannot be
neglected.
Another source of
information we received before we even purchased our vehicle was my brother.
He has owned a similar model for several years now. We received not only an account
his experience, but also that of his friends who own similar vehicles. We
can gain great insights concerning Bible truths by talking with other Christians. Therefore
encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen
and build up) one another, just as you are doing. (1 Thessalonians
5:11 AMP) We don’t have to all be trained teachers to have seen God’s word
active in our lives. What we share about our experience may not be the
same as someone else’s, but it can bring insight and encouragement.
Reading the owner’s
manual ourselves, taught us quite a bit about our new vehicle. Regular
reading and study of the Bible is essential to gaining wisdom and
knowledge. God has provided His word for all to receive directly.
Good teaching from those who have walked with God and studied the Bible is also
vital to a healthy Christian walk. And regular opportunities to discuss the
Lord, in organized groups or just with a friend or two will enhance our
experience as we walk out our daily lives.
Joe invited us to
return with any further questions as they arise. This process of learning
our SUV will be ongoing. We also have an open invitation to study and
hear from God. We can always grow and learn more.
Make the effort to learn
what you have in your relationship with God. Study the manual, share with
friends and receive from those who have been trained to help you. The
journey through this life will be greatly enhanced.
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