YOUR PERSONAL TIME WITH GOD, Part 2

Last month, Pastor Matt asked all of us to consider how we are doing in our personal times with the Lord.  As Pastor Matt indicated, these times alone with Him are a critical part of growing in the likeness of Jesus.  The Apostle Paul certainly believed this and taught the church inCorinth:

“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”  (2 Corinthians 3:18)

Dwelling in the Lord’s presence, as He reveals Himself in the pages of Scripture, brings about transformation into His likeness.  We are transformed from one degree of glory to another by the Spirit of God.

In order to provide some helpful direction for spending time alone with the Lord, click on the link below to download a format for an extended time in the Lord’s presence.  Instructions on how to use it are included.

Extended Time with the Lord (doc)

As a pastoral staff, we regularly use this format (or something similar) and spend 3 to 4 hours alone with the Lord.  We have found that spending extended time in the Lord’s presence, allowing Him to speak through His word, causes the things of this world to recede into the background.  He exposes sin in our lives, refreshes us, and fills us full of His joy.  Truly, in His presence is the fullness of joy (Psalm16:11)!

I would challenge each of you to set aside 2-3 hours one day this month.  Find a quiet place where you will not be interrupted or distracted, take your Bible, a pen, a notebook, and the attached guide.  Then spend an extended time with the Lord.  I believe you will be surprised how the Lord will meet you and minister to you.  If you have any questions or desire further help, feel free to contact me at church.

May you find, as David did, that “…in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.”  (Psalm 63:7b)

Pastor Lew