THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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A young man took a job that required he be away for 6 months in training.
Each week, he sent a telegram to the girl he wanted to marry.
When he returned, she had married the Western Union man.
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1 Cor 11:31-32
31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.
KJV
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When we, as Christians, read the Bible we should "judge" ourselves according to the Word.
I have read in the book of Psalm where David "meditated" upon the Word. And I know that I have not done so as I should.
I have read in the book of Psalm where David had great confidence in the Lord even in crises. Yet I must truthfully say that has not always been my feeling.
I have read in the gospels of Jesus and reflected upon His demeanor. Yet I must say that I have not developed the meekness, and the gentle spirit He displayed.
I have read in the gospels of Jesus and reflected upon His unbiased acceptance of people. And I know that I have not developed that sense of non-prejudicial acceptance.
I have read in the epistles where Paul stated that "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." And I must say that I have not reached that pinnacle of faith.
I have read in the epistles where Paul said, "I am the chief of sinners?" And I know that is true of myself!
When I read God's Word this way; as a test of my spiritual condition, then I must bow down and beg His forgiveness for sin! And, yes, then I sense the "chastening" of God's Spirit upon my own.
But it is also then that I realize the width, depth, height, and length of His love and forgiveness!
He has chastened me in love as His child.
But He has not condemned me with the world!
Love ya,
Bruce