Are We Over-Resourced?
The Psalmist asked one thing.
There are a few books that have changed me. God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew is one. Not a Fan by Kyle Idleman is another. The thing they gave me wasn’t information, but a deepened desire to meet with God.
“Visit many good books, but live in the Bible,” Charles Spurgeon said.
“For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness,” Psalm 84:10 ESV says.
The danger in being over-resourced with books, sermons, etc. about God that we don’t make time to meet with God.
A Creative Connection will include plenty of resources to help us access the Bible in new ways and enjoy time with God. But in this inaugural letter, the resource I want to press into your hands is the Bible itself.
We can read all the books, take all the classes, and listen to all the podcasts, but nothing replaces being transformed by the Spirit of God and building a relationship with Him. That is the whole point, and resources are only helpful if they lead us there.
No matter where you go to church, what books you read, what small group you attend, who you’re friends with, or what you listen to on your drive to work—the most impactful thing, all the way down, is just sitting in the Presence of God as you listen to Him (reading the Bible) and He listens to you (prayer). Dwelling with God is the best place to be.
Fight for your relationship with Him. Plead with the Spirit to renew your desire, and meet with Him even when your desire isn’t there. This is what will change your life—not another bestselling Christian living book.
Three Things
You Have More Time for Bible Reading Than You Think by Crossway. This infographic breaks down how long on average it takes to read each book and different sections of the Bible.
When It’s Difficult to Connect with God Through the Bible by Alicia Hamilton. This 8 minute read provides grace, perspective, and ideas for when reading the Bible is hard.
When You’re Choosing a Bible Translation by William Burrows. This 3 minute read explains the differences between the major translations and helps readers think through which translation might be best for their purposes.
Connection Prompt
Journal: What are two things that stop you from spending time with God?
Read: Psalm 27 and 84
Ask: What does God say about Himself in these two psalms?
Pray: For deeper desire for God’s presence and increased attention span for spiritual things.
In Christ,
“The danger in being over-resourced with books, sermons, etc. about God that we don’t make time to meet with God.” YEP, you nailed it. This is such a good word. Thankful for you!
“God’s Smuggler” is also a top favorite of mine - love that it’s shaped you too! And this is so good to point back to God’s presence - truly the place where all the books and resources are ultimately pointing towards.