Recently, I had some lunch with friends from New Jersey (a few weeks ago) and during the course of the conversation one of them told me how amazed he was that I was able to write this blog as much as I do. Well, frankly, some days it is just not that easy; however, once I actually sit down to write, usually something comes to me. And this little quote from J.C. Maxwell does apply. Because, well, just the act of writing does change things- it changes me. And I find that the habitual re-consideration of the Bible makes me a stronger Christian for the effort. You might say that I am receiving exhortation myself by my own efforts at exhorting others. Paul puts it this way...
Hebrews 10:22-25 NASB
(22) let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
(23) Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;
(24) and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds,
(25) not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
(22) let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
(23) Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;
(24) and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds,
(25) not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
When I habitually read the Scriptures, they change me; when I consider them I become more steadfast in the faith and when I think of others more than myself, I am learning to express love.
Gary - repeat verses 22ff. daily; or as often a day as you really desire to go to heaven!!!