trbccoffeebreak

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Colossians 3:16 (ESV)

Ever feel like your life is on remote – just simply going through the motions?  We drive the same route to work and back without even thinking about which way to turn and sometimes wondering how we actually got there – our mind was on remote.  Or perhaps we were folding laundry and putting it away while our thoughts were a million miles away. We’ve probably all landed here in this place of familiar activity, effortless doing while our thoughts scatter.

If we’re not intentional familiar can slip in when we read and study God’s word. Oh, we know that passage or story well so we do a quick read and move on. However, lingering invites a deeper understanding and often an unveiling of pivotal truths God desires to bring to our attention.

Landed here myself recently while studying the familiar words of Psalm 23. Probably all of us could recite it from memory. We’ve heard it read at memorial services. We’ve seen it printed on program booklets. We’ve seen Pinterest graphics displaying these beautiful words. Yet, God took me to this familiar passage to remind me of His intentionality in being all I need – comforter, protector and guide.

Lingering over six verses for six weeks opened my eyes to a better grasp and understanding of the love and faithfulness of our Lord – our Shepherd. Reading those verses with no distractions broadened my perspective of His leading and guidance. Visualizing God’s presence surrounding me always, even in the darkest valleys, removed insecurities and deepened my trust in Him. Confidence washed over me as I was welcomed to the table He prepared for me. All sweet reminders that one day, I will see Him face to face and live with Him forever. Goodness and mercy will follow me all of my days.

What joys I would have missed if I weren’t intentional. Blessed by the deep truths God revealed to me from these familiar passages. Totally convinced slow, focused reading ushers in clarity and invites the Holy Spirit to highlight exactly what we need. It may feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but as we put into practice lingering over His words, we will be amazed at what He teaches us. Truth is, revisiting familiar is now one of my fave things to do.

Sweet friends let’s not live our lives on remote – simply going through the motions, especially when it comes to God’s word. Let’s carve in margin to remove distractions and resist the urge to allow complacency and familiarity to settle in. It’s the one choice we will never regret.

“Father, ignite within us a deep desire to know You and Your word more each day. Open up our eyes and engage our heart with Yours.  Reveal Yourself to us and show us how to walk in obedience one step at a time.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life