"Take Scripture Seriously!"

  Take the Scriptures seriously! That might surprise many that I make that remark. We need to learn to let the Scriptures tell us what God means. Too many use the Scriptures to support their thoughts which is backward. We think something or someone tells us something and then we go and find a Scripture to support it. That's not treating Scripture seriously. That's how Scripture is misapplied. Too many use the Scriptures to support their stance or ideas instead of respectfully allowing the Scripture to mold and shape them into what God speaks.

  God is Spirit! These words that we read are from a holy, spiritual source that is powerful and righteous. Too many treat the Holy Scriptures as if they were some sort of religious Readers Digest. Yes, our past and the way we were raised can affect the way we look at Scripture but that's part of growing knowing that we need to allow our eyes to look through the eyes of our Lord. As you read, look for Jesus. When you read allow the Scriptures to explain what they mean to you and not you trying to interpret them. I know that's hard for many but that's where surrender comes into the equation. Trust in the Lord! Trust in what He speaks. Look through His eyes. When you find yourself struggling with understanding, don't force it or run to the nearest commentary. Allow God to work and grow you. Let it settle and take in the things you do understand and one day, it begins to all come together because understanding comes from the Lord, not man!