You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and that they will testify on my behalf. Yet you refuse to come to me to have life. John 5:39-40Reading mean more than just gathering information, acquiring new insight and knowledge, and mastering a new field. It can lead us to degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Spiritual reading, however, is different. It means not simply reading about spiritual things but also reading spiritual things in a spiritual way. That requires a willingness not just to read but to be read, not just to master but to be mastered by words. As long as we read the Bible or a spiritual books simply to acquire knowledge, our reading does not help in our spiritual lives. We can become very knowledgeable about spiritual matters without becoming truly spiritual people.
As we read spiritually about spiritual things, we open our hearts to God's voice. Sometimes we must be willing to put down the book we are reading and just listen to what God is saying to us through its words.
When you read Scripture, stop and listen occasionally for the messages that may be directed to you.
And from Thomas Merton ...
Merton's Voice:
Perhaps I am stronger than I think.
Perhaps I am even afraid of my strength, and turn it against myself, thus making myself weak. Making myself secure. Making myself guilty.
Perhaps I am most afraid of the strength of God in me. Perhaps I would rather be guilty and weak in myself, then strong in Him whom I cannot understand.
Merton, Thomas. Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander. New York: Image Books, 1989, p.146.
Prayer: O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. (NRSV Ps 107: 1)
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