The next two chapters explore the practical applications of humility in the light of the Gospel. CJ reminds us that it is a DAILY battle against our natural tendencies to drift away from the Truth. Like every morning, I “feel” like an unbeliever again (despite my perfect standings with God via Christ) and need to preach the Gospel to myself. Here are some practical ways done at beginning of day:
- Start the day with acknowledging your NEED for God
- Express your gratitude to God in all things that He has done for you
- Practice spiritual disciplines: prayer, study of God’s Word, worship
Here are some practical ways done at end of the day:
- Transfer the glory to God by thanking Him for all His grace demonstrated throughout the day for you!
- Accept the gift of sleep! Yes, it is a gift!
- Be thankful endlessly regarding the Savior’s sacrifices on the Cross.
Couple things that hit me like a brick. One, too often I tend to listen to myself rather than talking to myself. CJ (originally from ML-Jones) shares with us that we need to intentionally talk to ourselves about the Truth! That means when I’m having a difficult day because of (tough circumstances or situations or blatant sins that I’ve committed and feel overwhelmingly guilty) then I need to remind myself that the great Savior has saved me from the wrath that I totally deserve! And yes, I’m THAT BAD but Christ has clothed me in perfect righteousness! But I find myself these situations more rapidly evolving throughout the day as I’m working…(esp. when I face unlikable/angry patients or feeling self-righteous because of my ability to handle work, etc.) It’s everywhere, not just work.
Two, the gift of sleep! Man, ain’t this the truth! The fact that I’m tired and I cannot live (at least physically and functionally) without sleep! Thank God for this! But I think overall, the biggest challenge is practicing my spiritual disciplines DAILY rather than haphazardly.
For those of you who have long commutes to work, how do you spend your time in your car? Do you practice these spiritual disciplines regularly? If so, with joy of Christ? As you survey your work hours, do you have some ‘down time’ where you can periodically practice these spiritual disciplines? I find this to be difficult…mainly because I tend to forget. Please feel free to share with us.
3 comments:
Sam and brothers,
What great and practical ways to cultivate humility in Ch 5-6!
Way back when I was in graduate school, I had to commute 1 hour each way to a daily job/internship. This was not my choice... in fact, I even complained and grumbled about it when I did not get my first choice of my inital desired internship (which was a 10 min commute). Anyhow, the Lord graciously provided me with the discipline of Scipture memory and I memorized the entire book of Ephesians in my commute during those months... I would do 1-3 verses a day and then just keep reviewing them. I remember it was around 155 verses and I can look back and Praise God for those drives! If any of you know me... ask Peggy, but I hate driving for long periods of time...
Not only as CJ says: Seizing the commute--but you could also meditate and "preach Truth" / God's Word to yourself throughout the idle times of the day, such as standing in line, running around a track/exercise, walking along the road... I found it helpful in my own life--to just re-direct my frail mind toward Scripture, when it was idle or "mindless"... I also used to do laps in the pool, thinking about the verses from past weeks etc... and not only for the sake of memory, but how to APPLY and respond in joyful obedience.
Also, check out Pastor Sams blog on whole book memory. Andy Davis was my old pastor and I was greatly influenced by his ministry while I was in Durham.
Are any of you up for doing Philippians with me in ESV?
Especially those of you with long commutes? just kidding...but a little serious as well... Stay strong in the Lord as you all stand firm for Joy. (Phil 4:1)
Also... I just started a blog -- in its early stages (1 post and severely unorganized- as my mind is at times!) after Sam PAk's encouraging (week after week)...not sure if it is going to be helpful, but if you want to check it out:
fengreflections.blogspot.com
Chris
awesome Chris! I'm going to check out your blogs.
thanks again sam for being so diligent in posting. when i was reading through chapter 5, i was underlining all of CJ's steps... and then i got to the commute part, where it says "Seize your commute time to memorize and meditate on Scripture." Man... the hesitation to underline spoke volumes to me about the unwillingness and pride in my heart. this is definitely an area i need work on. if i truly believe that God's words are truth and have been given to me out of love, then i should do my part memorize and meditate.
Ch.6 was a great reminder that all glory is to be transferred to God, because He alone deserves honor and praise. it's so easy to fall into self-glorification at work or anything else. like sam said, praise God that we are clothed in Christ's perfect righteousness.
sammo
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