Taking Devotions to Heart - Part 1

Imagine reading the autobiography by Barbara Bush. You find her story fascinating, engrossing to the point that you block out all distractions. Page after page you continue to read, and upon finishing the book you look up at the woman sitting across from you and say, “Thank you, Mrs. Bush, for letting me read your story. You’ve lived quite the intriguing life.” Huh? Why, if sitting in the presence of someone, would you be content to focus your attention in their book?
 
Every time we open the pages of scripture, we focus attention on the God who IS – who is Present, who is alive, who is ready to engage us in a dialogue that brings more life and vibrancy than what our eyes perceive on the page. The challenge is to lift our eyes from the page, and to give Jesus our attention in light of what we’ve just read. 
 
To do this, let me offer a few suggestions as to how to read scripture in a way that brings you into conversation with the very Lord in your midst. I learned this progression from Louie Giglio during critical growth years of college. I’m glad to offer them to you now.

1. Read literally – what does this verse say about God? “The Lord is full of grace and willing to forgive.”
2. Read prayerfully – How would you state this verse as a prayer? “Lord, you are full of grace, and I’m blessed that you would be willing to forgive me.”
3. Read reflectively – How would this verse sound if the Lord were to speak it to your heart directly? “I am the Lord who is full of grace toward you. I am willing to offer forgiveness to you today.” 

When we lift our focus from the Word of God and attend to the God of the Word, we begin to enjoy the life-giving relationship that He intends. Yes, the Bible is the revelation of God. And, yes, the God revealed in the Bible is sitting with you as you read. Enjoy your time together.