Thanks Lar (with a few more words added)

July 19, 2006

I appreciate those kind and encouraging words brother.  I meant to tell you that today, but honestly, they were the most encouraging words that I may have ever received.  I am thankful that the Lord has given me breath for these 27 years, and most importantly, that He has opened my eyes to the riches of His glory!  I praise Him for His great and sovereing grace.  What would I be doing now if He did not save me?  I might still be playing hoops, but one thing is for certain, my life would be miserable and meaningless.  What is life if we do not seek first the kingdom and His righteousness?  What is life if it is not our life to delight ourselves in the Lord?  How sad it is that so few taste of these pleasures!  The narrow road is indeed narrow, but it is still the road of highest joy–bow now and forever!

As each year passes, I increasingly find myself reflecting on the final day when I meet the Lord.  I had to ask myself, what changes do I want to make before I meet my Maker?  Here is one:  read more!

I think I have been slacking in this lately brother, and I need you to hold me accountable.  It is so easy to get caught up in the rush of activity–good activity, but still activity–and to set reading on the back burner.  Of course, I don’t mean the reading of novels.  I mean some meaty reading, some reading that challenges the mind and fuels the fire of the soul, some reading concerning God and things eternal.  Anyhow, I have something that I want you to hold me to (and maybe to join me in if you are ‘game on’).  Here it is:  read one page a day of the works of Jonathan Edwards.

I figure it will take about 15-20 minutes, but I think you would agree that that is 15-20 minutes well spent.  I need grace, everyday grace to pull this off and persevere in doing it.  This idea came to me one day after reading a post by Al Mohler concerning reading at the Together for the Gospel blog.  He mentioned setting a goal of reading through the works of one great theologian.  Who’s better than Edwards?  Some might have a few names on their lips, but he is definitely among the best in the history of the church.  So what do you say?  You in?  Think about it.  The fruit could be quite sweet!  Well, even if you’re not, at least keep make sure I stay the course and finish the race (even though it might be quite long!).

Also, I would mention to those who read this blog (so Michelle and Erin listen up!), that it seems wise to find someone to sit under, to read all their works, to inundate yourself with their theology and thought.  It is wise to have a primary teacher.  Of course, we must choose wisely, but I would encourage others to find one.  And if you need help, don’t hesitate to ask either one of us!  We have our strong opinions, with some good reasons to back them I might add!

Anyhow, thanks again for the encouragement brother.  Those words go a long way to stir me up to love and good deeds.  The Lord is good.

Basking in His goodness with you,

Joe

Posted by Joe | Filed Under Seeking Him 

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