Malnutrition

I saw an old acquaintance today.  I have had many conversations with this person over the years, and it seems the story of their life remains the same: problems, multiplying problems without solutions; no hope!  They know the truth, know the answer, know the steps to freedom, but there is slackness on their part to implement.  They will not pursue God even though they know He can and will break the chains!

I ask, "Are you in the Word?"  The answer is "no".   Many words, much truth shared, problems discussed in light of the Word, thank you, and goodbyes.  And I'm left wondering and most of all praying that "hopefully, this time...".

I began thinking of the conversation (with a growing headache) and wanting so badly to see change and growth.  But as I thought of all that stress, I know that their life looks just like you'd expect from one going their own way.  Thinking of it in terms of food:  what would a person look like who only ate once a week or not at all?  Why will it be any different for those who will not enjoy a steady diet of the Word of Almighty God?  We cry out that we're sad and distressed.  But like a person who will not eat food is going to have pain and ultimate sickness to death, so the Christian, who will not be nourished daily on the truth; truth that our Father has given us.  We say, "He seems silent.  He's not hearing my prayer."  But He has given us divine, inspired words to live by that will bless us all our days.   We've just got to "read it" and "do it!!"

Spiritual nourishment is mandatory to maintain our walk.  "God has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him." (2 Peter 1)  He even spoon feeds us for a time.  But then we must pick up that spoon and feed ourselves.  He provides both the "spoon" and the "food"!  Just do it!