This summer, Dr. Green wanted to share some of his favorite First Steps from previous years.
July 15, 2024
“What do I really desire from Christ?” Have you ever thought of that question? William Law, an English mystical clergyman, answered it this way: How is it that Christ helped the lame and the blind, the lunatic and the leper, the publican and sinner? It is because they desire it. They come in authentic faith. Christ would respond to them, “Your faith has made you well.” Therefore, what we desire is the real issue.
Law would infer that people wanted Christ for the current world and the next world. They wanted a changed life so that everything was altered: a new way of thinking, acting, and speaking. This change is so radical that the blind see, the lame walk, and the mute speak.
He would continue by stating being saved is nothing other than being made like Jesus. It is to gain his humility, meekness, and self-denial. It involves doing God’s will and seeking to please God alone. He would often wonder that if one was not able to plead for them with the same intensity as the sick who came to Christ, then maybe one needs to consider if he/she really wants Christ as a savior. So, I ask you again, “What do you really desire from Christ?”
| This Week’s Readings: Monday – Genesis 46 Tuesday – Genesis 47 Wednesday – Genesis 48 Thursday – Genesis 49 Friday – Genesis 50 We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year! You may join anytime. Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings. |
Things to Pray About: Pray for those affected by natural disasters. Pray for words of kindness, to you and from you. Pray for guidance, protection, healing, strength, courage, and faith. Our unwillingly absent members and shut-ins. Comfort those who are grieving. Wisdom for our church leaders (especially through the special called Church Conference), local leaders, and world leaders. Family restoration through forgiveness. Continued growth of the faith of the people. Pray for inner peace. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |