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FOCUS ON THE FATHER – 10/29/18

By October 29, 2018Daily Devotionals

FOCUS ON THE FATHER
October 29, 2018

Prayer: May we focus on the Father as He reveals Himself and His will to us.

Scripture: Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.
1 Timothy 4:13 NAS

In Seminary we learn to read and study Scripture first by focusing on the Author, God. We are supposed to ask, “What does this Scripture reveal about God?” secondly, we look at the earthly writer and his life, gifts and circumstances that impact him as the Holy Spirit divinely inspires the writing of God’s message. Thirdly we study the original audience, their language, culture and circumstances of their day as these words were first read to them. Fourth, is a literary analysis; one must read a narrative differently than a psalm and still differently than a letter. Finally, we come to the cultural adaptation of, “What does this mean today and to me?”

Strangely, most people begin this process backwards, by putting “Me” first instead of God. Notice in the proper process I am fifth and the “I AM” is first. In any relationship it is important to know about the other person and not just focusing on you, your history, your needs, likes, dreams, complaints, etc. God’s Word is absolutely as relevant today as it was the day it was written. Never doubt that the Bible holds significant meaning and messages for you but the first message is about God and His unchanging attributes. God reveals His heart, His plans, His power, His way of seeing and doing things and so much more. We grow in our relationship with Him when we seek to know Him and His ways through His Word. Only after we go through the process can we have a clearer understanding of the message that is meant for us.

Even after we look to see what God is revealing about Himself, we need to ask, “How does God want me to respond to Him?”  Ask, “How can I delight the Father as I act on this new information and revelation?” Keeping the focus on the Father helps to keep us humble and is a strong reminder that we are here to serve Him and not the other way around. What are some common excuses you have heard for not responding to God’s message? Have you heard anyone say, “The world is not going to get any better until Jesus comes back so why bother?” This excuse is a poor plea to be lazy. Even if the world does not get better, we, as His church, should improve and shine a little brighter every day. It is the Great Commission, not the great suggestion to, “Go and make disciples…”

Copyright Kathy Branzell.  Email [email protected]