“When you are spiritually connected, you are not looking for occasions to be offended, and you are not judging and labeling others. You are in a state of grace in which you know you are connected to God and thus free from the effects of anyone or anything external to yourself.” ~ Wayne Dyer
If you believe in God, how easily are you offended when someone pushes back against your reliance on God? Let’s take it deeper; how offended are you that God continues to pursue you and purify you when you live in such a fallen world? When you turn your will and life over to God and allow God to dwell deep inside your soul, you will never be the same. There will be periods of resistance and wrestling with God because the old self doesn’t go down without a fight. Whether you like the persistent purification of your soul by God or not, God will continue to purify you until you are just like Jesus. Jesus states, “And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me” (7:23 KJV) in our scripture reading for today. Learning to live the kingdom life is not easy. Your spiritual illumination will cause you to stand out, especially when you intentionally seek out the darkest places in the world to carry the message. The will of God will press you, but if you persevere, one day at a time, you will not want it any other way. You will learn to love God’s way because God’s way is truly the best way to live this earthly life, and you press forward, helping usher in the kingdom of God.
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take away from today’s reflection and scripture readings?
- How are you offended by God?
- Why do you get offended?
- Are you mostly defensive or offensive when it comes to God?
- Why are most people offended by God?
- Have you ever wanted God to leave you alone?
Prayer
Lord, I know You love me and have my best interest heart. It’s hard to be obedient at times, especially in such a broken world. My habits still rear their ugly head and cause me and others problems. Please forgive me, and grant me the strength and willingness to remain obedient and open to Your purification of my soul. In Your Spirit and Name, I pray these things. May Your will always materialize, now and forever, Amen.
Leave a Reply