Its close to the first of the year, so I thought I’d pass on an idea I grabbed onto. Starting out in Matthew (the first book of the New Testament). I don’t know how God feels about audio bibles, but I would guess He’s okay with it. We’ll find out. Like with any bible study, you are well advised to pray before or afterwards or both, for understanding.
God forbid anyone is new at this and needs guidance, there’s no need to fret. Your discernment can be with a little help, just as clear as the Pope’s or the most learned theologian, if that’s what God wants. But a simple, sincere beginner prayer might go something like this:
Our Father in heaven, I ask Your forgiveness for my sins. I have not leant myself to being open to Jesus, I want that now. Please give me the wisdom and understanding to learn His word now. I want to be His servant. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
[FYI: God will use the Holy Spirit in miraculous ways, especially with Muslims, Jews and Hindus. He seems to enjoy doing the “impossible”. God knows your heart, if you are serious, He will give you Jesus.]
(Christianity is a tough thing. How do you “become” one? You don’t take an oath or pass a test. Its not upon completion of reading the bible. Its not after 8 church services. The “easiest” for some people is hitting bottom, if that makes any sense. A lot of times God needs you broken so you will listen, so you will lose your stubborn pride. What’s funny is you can tell generally after you become one who is and who isn’t. Maybe you’ll no longer have a desire to drink alcohol, or go to strip clubs, or look at dirty pictures. Christians will have some defect or problem in their life, some thorn in their side, like Paul. Its your test or burden or your “cross to bear”. You are not perfect after becoming a Christian. Not even close. The only difference in that and someone who is not a Christian, is that you are well aware of your failings. You’ll find a lot of wise people who are Christians. I don’t know how to explain it. I didn’t say smart. You’ll know you are a Christian when your life changes. You will no longer enjoy sin. You won’t fear death as much. Good deeds follow the Holy Spirit taking you in. If you have questions, you know where you can find Christians to ask. They’d be more than happy to talk to you. Prayer? Prayer and the Word? Its a mystery.)
{The “Word” can refer both to the bible and Jesus.}
Politics and Religion 