Hope of the world....

I was always intimidated by I Peter 3:15.

"to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you".

I had visions of bible verses memorized and knocking on people's doors. For me, the verse was intimidating. I felt that I could never know enough of the bible to be that person.

Then the Holy Spirit just gave me a slap. God was not asking me to be someone else, He was asking me to be ME. He brought me to His word and showed how Jesus taught using parables. Stories that illustrated whatever point He was trying to make. He reminded me that our relationship is filled, with those same kinds of stories. Of the good things He has done for me, the wisdom He has given me and the struggles He has brought me through.

He let me know that the hope I have within me, is best exemplified through the story of my walk with Christ. Don't get me wrong, it is amazing how God brings all those old scriptures to memory when I need them, but I do not have to be a bible scholar to show those around me who Jesus is....

That for all of us...He is the hope of the world.

Back to basics...

It is funny to sit and read through this blog. I read back and see moments where God gives me clarity. In those times I feel like I know what He wants me to do. Then I lose focus and drift lazily down a river of wasted time.

It has been a long time since I have written, again. It is another reminder that any good, wise or encouraging thought I may write is not from me. When I am in control of what I write nothing is produced, but when God is moving my heart I feel like I may be an encouragment to someone.

That is one thing that I have newly learned. I am not called to write a commentary on life, the bible or the christian life. The only thing that I feel called to write is encouragement. To offer the courage that God has given to me, to others.