Learning & Doing

God has gently but firmly opened my eyes to the fact that, although I read and study the Word a lot, I don't spend much time engaging in it, applying it. I'm noticing how often I hear a sermon, read a book, or study the Word and just let it go in one ear and out the other. I'm too often a "hearer," not a "doer." Sometimes I mentally write off the message as being something I already have under control. Other times I think, "I hope so and so's listening." And how often have I sped through a book that could contribute to my spiritual well-being - just to add it to my "Books Read" list. How prideful.

And so, my battle plan is to engage. I've decided to read through I Peter for awhile. All of it, every day. It's not that long - only 5 short chapters. I don't know how long I'll do it - a week or a month. However long it takes to soak in, really soak in. Until I've wrestled with it, tasted it and made it mine. And then, most importantly, put it into practice. For what good is a faith that's all in the brain and never walked out with the feet?

My lessons began this morning. As I read "Be hospitable to one another without grumbling," the verse, as they say, nearly jumped off the page into my face. Immediately, scenes from the recent past popped into my mind. Last night, when the Spirit nudged me to ask my sister if she wanted a cup of tea, I complained and told Him I was too tired to prolong her visit. When my mother-in-law stopped in on Saturday, I ignored His whisper and never offered her a chair because I was too busy. The other evening, when my husband suggested serving the nephews ice cream, I declined - they already had cake.

Ouch.

That's enough, Lord. I get the message - loud and clear. I have much to learn. Oops. Scratch that. I have much to do.