October 21, 2019 (Monday)
I recently published a blog entitled “Grow in Grace and Knowledge,” and I suggested “Six Simple Steps to Christian Growth.” (See below). The fifth of these steps was, “Read Devotional Writings.”
In the foyer of our church there are stacks of “Open Windows,” a booklet of daily devotionals written by dedicated Christians. The chapters are arranged as a calendar, with a new reading each day. The Baptist publication is one of many such books, booklets, tracts, etc. that are helpful to people seeking a close walk with the Lord.
Go to a Christian book store and you will amazed at how many Christian books are available. You can find many of these in your public libraries or your church’s library.
There are books of all kinds that can help you in your daily walk with Christ: novels, history, theology, sermons, devotionals, etc. etc.
More and more movies made by Christian organizations are available to be seen in public theaters. The artistic talent equals that of any other type of movie from professional movie makers. In addition to your reading, you might want to see a good, first class Christian-made movie.
Sometimes there are shows on television that are edifying and provide devotional moments for the viewers. Several widely-known and trusted men of God offer daily or weekly devotional thoughts or sermons that many people find very uplifting.
Jesus told us about a wayward son reduced to a desire to feed with pigs who went back home to his father and feasted at his father’s table. Perhaps some who are reading this are tired of the entertainment offered by “pig pens” and are ready to feast on better food. What have you read or viewed recently?
Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord
Benjamin M. Ramsey
1919Teach me Thy way, O Lord, teach me Thy way!
Thy guiding grace afford, teach me Thy way!
Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight;
Lead me with heav’nly light, teach me Thy way!When I am sad at heart, teach me Thy way!
When earthly joys depart, teach me Thy way!
In hours of loneliness, in times of dire distress,
In failure or success, teach me Thy way!When doubts and fears arise, teach me Thy way!
When storms o’erspread the skies, teach me Thy way!
Shine through the cloud and rain, through sorrow, toil, and pain;
Make Thou my pathway plain, teach me Thy way!Long as my life shall last, teach me Thy way!
Where’er my lot be cast, teach me Thy way!
Until the race is run, until the journey’s done,
Until the crown is won, teach me Thy way!
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Grow in Grace and Knowledge
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 NIV).
I am suggesting some steps for the new Christian to experience growth. These steps can also be good for seasoned Christians who desire a renewal of faith and a fresh start in living for Jesus. The six steps are: 1. Go to Church 2. Read the Bible 3. Pray 4. Talk about Jesus 5. Read Devotional Writings 6. Be aware of your daily life.