Most of us, if honest, would have to acknowledge that our experiences don't
always line up with the Scriptures. For example, we are more than conquerors,
but we are sometimes conquered by bad attitudes, sin, unbelief or other
weaknesses. We're told we need never fear, but most Christians do.
Why doesn't the Word work for me? I thought while meditating about this verse in
John.
Because all truth comes in seed form, He so clearly spoke to my heart. What you
do with the seed after it is planted will determine whether or not it bears
fruit in you.
Suddenly, many other passages of Scripture made sense: the parables of the sower
(see Matt. 13; Mark 4; Luke 8); the renewing of the mind (see Rom. 12:1,2);
abiding in the Vine by abiding in His Word (see John 15) and others. All of
these involve planting seeds and working the process.
I discovered, that day and during subsequent studies, that this process of
applying God's Word is both constructive and destructive. It is a healing
scalpel and a destroying sword. It is a watering nutrient and a pruning knife.
Through it God gives life to those who believe and releases judgment to those
who don't. And most importantly, I realized its work in me was a process.
Watchman Prayer by Dutch Sheets, p. 136-137. Copyright 2000 Gospel Light/Regal
Books, Ventura, CA 93003 Used by Permission
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