For many the image of the word "repent" has negative connotations. Finger pointing. Judgment. Fear. But what if the original word itself is consulted? We then find that repent means a change of mind. A change of purpose. A new perception.
John the Baptist: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Matthew 3:2
Jesus the Son: "From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Matthew 4:17
So it appears that our turning away results in a freedom of turning toward. We leave one focus and begin to turn the eyes of our heart toward another. For one who follows Jesus - this literally connects us with the power of God so we may return to our original identity and purpose lost in the fall of Adam and Eve.
Why is this important? For one, it is very personal, and allows us to reach outside of ourselves for help. It also allows us to escape any misplaced hope in religion or other deficient man-promises. And finally, it invites us to enter into a life of moving in and out within our supernatural connectivity with God.
So Jesus said to them again, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly (expansively)." John 10:7-9
I am here. Turn away from the futility of self. Turn toward Me. Come to Me and I will give you rest. I will share your burdens and carry you when you are weighed down. Sound familiar?
"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30
Oxen were yoked together in pairs to maximize strength and cooperation. Jesus is literally saying He is willing to be "yoked" with us so our weights are distributed with His power to pull the load of our lives. So amazingly cool.
Some key spiritual steps:
√ Invite Jesus to be Lord over your life.
√ Begin to read about Him in the Gospels.
√ Find a printed Bible that makes sense for you.
√ Begin to ask God with what it is He wants you to know about yourself and about Him.
This will enhance and simplify your process of turning away and turning toward. Easy peasy.
If you are just getting started go here.
If you want a bigger backdrop go here.
If you want a deeper talk with God go here: 40 Days in the Gospels.
If you are looking for a Bible that matches up with Fourthstream click here
God is deeper than we can possibly imagine - yet He is incredibly accessible! Go to the coaching tab if you would like to talk through your own plan for going deeper.
Enjoy and grow deep roots!
Dave and Burnadette
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