Going Deeper

Scripture – Matthew 6:19-23: ¹⁹“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ²²“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. ²³But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This is one of those passages of scripture that will keep working its way deeper and deeper into my inner being if I let it. The more I keep it on the surface, the less challenging it is. However, I just read this week that one of the main purposes of God’s word is not to inform, but to transform. So, for example, what will I do with this treasure business? If I let this word drop clear down into my heart of hearts, what does that reveal about what I treasure in life? I think I know what’s there, but I don’t really want to take a good look. That takes work and no small amount of courage. It’s far easier to swim on the surface.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As I continue practicing listening to what God has to say to me, I’ll open myself to His word at a deeper level. I’m not sure if there’s a bottom line, beyond which I can go no deeper. But I will certainly move into a new level over these next few days and see what transforming work will be done.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, I don’t write these words lightly. I must admit I’ve been resisting your influence within. I’ve reached a point that seems deeper than most people, and I’ve let myself be satisfied with that. Yet there is much more growing for me to do. Lead me into that. Show me what I really treasure in life. Lead me ever closer to your perfection.