Tantrums, Tests, Truth: There Is NO Plan "B"! (Part 2)

Recap of 11/14/2011:
After reviewing the doubt factors (rocks, shallow soil, scorching sun, birds, and weeds discussed in Matthew 13:1-23) that pull us away from maxing out in full Truth, we reminded ourselves of the proclamation in Jeremiah 19:11 - God has a plan, a hope, a future for us. In other words, He has set out a course of prosperous work for us that will bring Him the highest glory. When we mistep that course we are taken on a tangent (digressing suddenly from one course of action or thought and turning to another - Dictionary.com), or deviation, which takes us away from that good, pleasing, perfect will of God spoken of in Romans 12:2. This is why there is an emphasis on the need to change the way we think.

Now, even though we might deviate from that "perfect" course, there isn't punishment or death in the Christ-follower's world. But, rather, grace and mercy. God is wanting us to return to Him - to repent, to turn away from sin (missing the mark of following His direction) and turn back to God. When that happens, He is ready, willing, and able to dispense grace and mercy. God's whole plan is redemptive and has been from the beginning of creation.

We started our review of body ministry, of which we are part as a member of the Body of Christ. We will pick up on this in our next session and move forward from there.

For 11/21/2011:
Wow, I am constantly amazed at how God chooses to work. I think He's going one direction and then He steps and beckons in another. He knows what's best for us. Galatians 5:18 (MSG) states "... be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence". If we can latch onto this singular Truth we, partnered with Him, are unstoppable. We will find our fulfillment of fruition, a state of being serene, and our pinnacle of purpose. The Law demands perfection and when perfection is missed, there awaits only punishment and death. Being Spirit led operates in grace and mercy and also results in perfection.  Confused?  Don't be ... because the former relies upon our strength and latter relies on His strength ... I trust our Father to shine His Light on this more as we continue.

The plan is to finish up on the topic of body ministry this week, touch upon the concept of pre-destination, move into "being" what He wants us to "be" (Acts 17:28 NIV), and introduce the concept of "Plan R".  I look forward to the time with you all.  Blessings!!


"The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving."
-- Oliver Wendell Holmes --