Learning to be a Soldier
Posted in The Historical Faith and tagged with Bible, Christianity, Church, Student, Teaching on August 4, 2009I do love to teach, but it can be very convicting at times. Actually, as a teacher/leader I find myself more often convicted than I do as a student/learner.
Sunday at an AWANA leaders’ meeting we were discussing how we wanted the students to not merely memorize the verses, but to really take them in and apply them. That’s when it hit me: how often do I do that?
I’m a student, always will be. I do like to study and learn. Yet I know I don’t spend as much time in the Bible as I should. Probably spend more time in God’s Word than many, but what does that matter?
But even if I knew the Bible backwards and forward, it means nothing if I don’t apply it. Once again, I’m not the worst at this, but I’m certainly not doing the best that I can and should, especially when you consider the resources I have available to me, the biggest two being the Holy Spirit and the Bible itself.
So, as we get ready to start a new year in Sunday school and AWANA, I’m committing myself to digging deeper into the word and seeking to apply it more and more. I suppose what’s really made this hit home to me is I’ve been reminded in a few different ways that this life is not about me. I’m a part of something bigger, yet why do I spend so much time playing around?
“No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.” – 2 Timothy 2:4 (NAS)
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August 4th, 2009 at 8:08 am
You’re so right. I’m guilty of not opening my Bible often enough and not applying what I’ve learned when I do. Sometimes I think, ‘oh, that’s nice’ and continue on my way. I miss those times when I really feel like the Lord is speaking to me through His Word.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Elizabeth: I’ve had some really sweet times in the Word, times when I couldn’t get enough. And then there are times when reading the Bible is just a chore. On several occasions I’ve begged God to have those sweet times back, and He answers.
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August 4th, 2009 at 10:51 am
What a fantastic promise to make to yourself. I hope you are successful. :)
August 4th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
“I’m a part of something bigger, yet why do I spend so much time playing around?” You are making me think today.
This was well thought out and well written. You are AWESOME Ronnica.
August 4th, 2009 at 6:04 pm
I think that we all are this way. It seems our main thoughts and concerns are centered around “I”. You have challenged each of us today to stop and think what we are really doing. None of us are doing as much as we should. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, they are deep, with us.
August 5th, 2009 at 1:13 am
Oooh very well said and great idea!
August 5th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
Good one. Like the Bible says. Don’t be just hearers of the word, but doers. That application stuff is where it gets tricky…Your right.
♥
Joy
August 6th, 2009 at 9:42 am
Nope, it definitely is not really all about us! lol I remember the day I truly, sincerely learned that. It was awesome and shocking all at the same time! rofl
Digging deeper and honest application is definitely the way to go. I’m certain what you will gain will stretch far beyond your imagination!
August 6th, 2009 at 10:50 am
Jennifer: Thanks. One of my major goals is to cause encourage others to think.
G. Zoe: Nope, I think we all have much room for improvement!
Joy: Yes, application is tricky!
Irish: I think I’m still learning that, in many ways. It’s a whole lot easier to recognize the me-first attitude in others…I need to look in the mirror more!
August 10th, 2009 at 12:45 am
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