1Cor2

"Unbelievers do not welcome the things that come from God" -v14  How do you respond to the word of God? Is it a welcomed encouragement or a unwelcome bother? Think about the reality of God's truth as it comes to you. What is your first response?

For example, this week I will be teaching on God's heart for the poor and needy. Our hearts are to be like God's heart. What He values, we should value. What He loves we should love. His challenge to us should be our joy and welcomed opportunity. Yet most, including myself, will struggle with this clear call from God. Why?

I believe that we far too often think God has called us to Himself for US! We believe that God's ultimate good would be to make our lives even more blessed and that His primary job is to make us happy. Sometimes I believe we actually think God's Spirit is the "happy spirit" not the Holy Spirit.

God does desire our good. He does not desire to meet our selfish desires. Our good is rooted in obedience to God's clear instruction. His desire is for our ultimate good. Our desires are often rooted in only temporary happiness. Only through the Spirit can we begin to live the life God really wants for us. It is often difficult, but always rewarding.

Welcome the Spirit's challenges today.