Through the years depicted in “Bonhoeffer” you see his relationship with the Lord grow and gain depth. God’s Word is his foundation and time and time again, regardless of the circumstances, Bonhoeffer seeks direction from scripture.
One of the most warming and valuable elements of understanding from Bonhoeffer was the concept that we are never going to be perfect, but we cannot allow this fact to keep us from attempting to serve as God calls us. We will make mistakes, but like a loving Father, God will be right there to help us up.
“”It depends on a God who demands responsible action in a bold venture of faith,” he (Bonhoeffer) wrote, ”and who promises forgiveness and consolation to the man who becomes a sinner in that venture.” Here was the rub: one must be more zealous to please God than to avoid sin.” (Bonhoeffer p. 446.
When we allow fear of sin to keep us from following God’s direction, we are sinning. God calls us to trust in Him and follow His ways wholeheartedly. To be disciples, we need to learn for God, hear His direction accurately, and follow as His directs. We will make mistakes regardless of taking action or failing to do so when called. So, why not be someone who is learning through God and making a difference?
“Moreover, the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, so that you will love the Lord our God with all your heart and with all your soul, in order that you may live.” (Deuteronomy 30:6)
How far in do you want to go with turning your life over to God? God will continue to circumcise your heart to whatever level you allow. Holding on to something from the past or present that you refuse to trust God with prevents growth. Continue to seek each day to humbly serve. Lift up situations you are holding on to. Seek God’s guidance regarding: what to learn, what to pray for or against and what level of on-going impact He would like to bring in your life.
The Israelites were given opportunity to meet with God on the mountain with Moses, but this opportunity was difficult for them to embrace. They were unable to come to terms with their fear of God’s judgement. They knew they had sinned greatly, making false idols, and they feared God’s wrath. We all have these feelings when we pull back the layers of our own sins. It is hard to open our hearts to that level and can be excruciatingly painful emotionally. We do not want to look at our own sin for the ugliness that it is. During these times, remember:
“If you will only obey the Lord your God, by diligently observing all his commandments that I am commanding you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth; all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Trust God. Move beyond the pain and open your heart to allow the magnitude of God’s glory to bring forgiveness and healing In prayer, continuously lift up known sin and concern for future sin. Seek help to step out in the way God so desires and trust. Discipline your heart and your actions will follow. God knows we will never be perfect, but there is always opportunity to increase the depth we follow God’s commandments, bringing blessing and prosperity.
Prosperity is often tied to material wealth. For the remainder of this study, the term prosperity will be used in relation to the furtherment of God’s Kingdom here on earth. Jesus spoke:
“And he told them many things in parables saying: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Let anyone with ears listen!” (Matthew 13:3-9)
Christ explained this parable with regard to people choosing Him as their salvation. God often uses the same scripture to provide multiple levels of understanding to us. There are many levels of prosperity in God’s Kingdom. This scripture could also apply to a topic of understanding for the reader. We may not understand the first time we are exposed to something, but through prayer and Holy Spirit guidance, God will peel back the layers, continuing to provide seed until we are able to “bring forth grain.” As we face sin in our life, God will expose more of His ways and His understanding. He will bring us to truth in every situation we allow Him access to.
What is keeping you from greater discipleship in Christ? Seek daily to have a more genuine heart to humbly serve. God will see the truth in your desire and meet you exactly where you are!
May you grow in discipleship and discipline this week and to God be all the glory!
Amen.
Originally Published: 10/18/22