Paul wrote that we should let the Word of Christ dwell in us richly. If we do that, and if the Word is dwelling richly in us, It’s going to affect how we think and what we love. Today’s excerpt from The Joy and Rejoicing of My Heart is found on page 55:
“The Word of God is life for the soul. It speaks to the mind, to how we think, what we think about, the hopes and visions and dreams that give direction to our lives. As we study the Scriptures we want to learn how to exercise more of the mind of Christ, which is given to us. We want to take every one of our thoughts captive and make them all obey Jesus for loving God and our neighbors.
“The Word of God teaches us what to think and how to think, and it renews our minds day by day so that we can live more consistently for Jesus Christ.
“The Word also illuminates the affections of the heart. Not every attitude, desire, feeling, longing, or hope which we entertain is consistent with the promises of God, progress of His Kingdom, and the life of faith. Our desires must be reviewed and reformed daily. Our heart needs renewing light and grace from God’s Word, so that we love what we’re supposed to love, hate what we ought to hate, fear God and nothing else, and are invested in all our affections in a manner consistent with the heart of God.
“As we read and study the Scriptures, we need to listen for the Spirit to expose any areas of darkness in our heart, so that we may repent and take up a course of attitudes and affections more consistent with the life Christ came to bring us.”
For reflection or discussion
1. How do you know when the Word of God is speaking to your mind, your thinking?
2. How do you know when the Word of God is speaking to your heart, your affections?
The Word of God, wrote the writer of Hebrews, is a two-edged sword that penetrates to the depths of our being, doing holy surgery to rid us of destructive notions and affections and to help us nurture new ones. We need to read the Scriptures for our mind and heart, that we might be alert to any changes the Holy Spirit wants to make. Share today’s podcast with a friend. Then follow-up to discuss what you’re learning. Your copy of The Joy and Rejoicing of My Heart awaits you in The Ailbe Bookstore.
T. M. Moore
