What a challenge this has brought to our class already. Great discussion. The idea of the book is that as Christians, knowing that the Creator of this universe is in love with us, and has shown this crazy act of love for us, there ought to be a response that takes place in believers... a crazy reaction to that love. Which makes me ask, do we really grasp what God has done for us? Is this a new concept? No. But it's important that we challenge ourselves, renew our minds and spirits of why we are really here.. and act on it.James 4:14 stood out to me when reading - "yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."
It puts everything in perspective when I think of myself as a mist here on Earth. My life is valuable yes, but it's short and....misty. Too often I am consumed with my little world and miss the big picture. My life is not my own story. I'm just a little part that's entwined in God's grand story. He's the main character, not me. Not to say that the things we go through and the different circumstances in our lives are not of value. God uses them for His purposes and His glory. And His story for you is uniquely designed just for you. So to think of all my personal worries, fears, and stresses that can consume me...what good is it? And why is it so hard to let them go? Control issues? But God is sovereign right? He has it under control. And the best part is, it's for our good right? Can you imagine if God was in control but wasn't a good God or didn't have our best interest at heart? Eeeek! That would give you something to worry about! The book states that worry and stress reek of arrogance.
“Basically, these two behaviors communicate that it’s okay to sin and not trust God because the stuff in my life is somehow exceptional."
None of them bring any eternal value. I want my focus to be on eternity and how God will use me each day knowing that all this stuff on earth, all it is is an investment for the future. Am i living in such a way that i really believe my life here on earth is just a vapor?
Oooooh, I read this book last fall and just loved it too. So amazing to realized the depth of God's love for me, and how I am so unaware or worse, take it for granted. My SS teacher used to say, "A person wrapped up in themselves makes a very small package." God wants to free us from the bondage of selfishness, and open our eyes and lives to His purposes. Will I let go of my plans????
Thanks for such challenging words!!
That book looks great - I'll have to add it to my list. Great insights Janelle!