I want to learn more and more about Jesus

Question? Have you ever thought about the inscription you would like to have written on your tombstone? Well I have. And from the beginning, it has always been: “IN ALL THY GETTING, GET AN UNDERSTANDING”. PROVERBS 4:6-7

Yes, ever since my parents and grand parents introduced me to the Lord Jesus, it has been my desire and a blessed journey of seeking an understanding about what, why, and how I could become more and more like Him. Of course, my journey was complicated at first, but as I grew in life and the more I learned of the life and message of Jesus, my soul and desires were for the Holy Spirit to make my quest more and more obtainable.

Therefore, as a child, I started writing letters to Jesus, poems to Jesus, prayers to Jesus, songs to Jesus and drew pictures for Jesus. I even read my Bible to Jesus. I guess you can say I was mesmerized by the life, goings and comings of a Savior named Jesus. I pleaded for a better understanding of why He loved me so. And miraculously, one day while I was reading my Bible, I got stuck in Proverbs Chapter 4. For some reason I kept going over the phrase, “…in all thy getting, get an understanding.” That did it!!!

I buried that Bible phrase in my heart from that day on. I’ve told my family, my friends, my church members and anybody else who will listen, they BETTER write that phrase on my tombstone. And if for some reason they don’t, I’ll come back to haunt them!

Some time ago, while in deep conversation with God, the Holy Spirit shared with me a thing or two about the "Great Physician".  Basically, I came away with this penetrating thought:  "Remain in me (Jesus), as I also remain in you.  John 15:4

So, for this week's blog I want to share with you how to be at peace and in good health in this environment even when our bodies are racked with pain; troubled with disturbing thoughts; and our spirits are questioning our faith on every side.

For your understanding, I will apply certain scripture references that will give meaning to why Jesus used so many examples of life's emotions to teach on how to be blessed and content when all hell is breaking loose around us.

FIRST RULE OF THUMB:  THE PURPOSE

While living down here on earth, those who follow the cross ought always to be salt and light to the world (Matthew 5:13) regardless of what physical, mental or material state we find ourselves in.  If we are to be disciples of Jesus Christ, our ways and demeanor should bring illumination and savor (preservation) to our fellow man.  Thus, living in a manner befitting the atmosphere of the Kingdom of God!

SECOND RULE OF THUMB:  THE SCRIPTURE

Our scripture is found in Matthew from chapters 4:23 through 5:12.  You will recognize it as containing The Beatitudes.  The word Blessed is used quit often and means more than just 'happy'.  It takes on the ultimate well-being and distinctive spiritual joy of those who share in the salvation of the kingdom of God.

So, during my conversation with God, I asked the Holy Spirit why did He use physical human emotions that depict pain and sorrow to define the word 'blessed' or in some Bibles 'happy'.

For example:  Blessed are the poor in spirit...
                       Blessed are they that mourn...
                       Blessed are the meek...etc.

THIRD RULE OF THUMB:  GET AN UNDERSTANDING OF GOD'S WORD

Why use physical emotions?  Because those examples have a deeper longing and infuse more sincere compassion not only for personal righteousness, BUT also justice for the oppressed.  Let me explain further; when scripture says blessed are the merciful it means that those souls not only forgive others but also have empathy for them.  When you are sensitive to God's forgiveness it frees you from feeling guilty and brings comfort to your soul.

In my quest to share my beliefs as to why we all must prayerfully consider thinking about what we would like to have written on our tombstone is because those thoughts will help you begin living towards that goal. You are actually inviting the Holy Spirit to come and join you in your spiritual quest to please and serve the Holy Son of God.  It will surely help to keep your mind on WWJD.

Try it...You might like it!

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