Are You Letting Jesus In?

"All growth that is not toward God is growing to decay." - George Macdonald

"In one ear and out the other." It's usually said when information is heard but then disregarded or quickly forgotten. How many of us have either heard, or have been told that while growing up? It's an idiom that can easily be applied to the way some may approach Jesus, too.

It is possible to receive his Word, yet not absorb or accept it. We can read about Jesus, or hear His Word without receiving it in our heart and soul where it truly needs to be. Instead, it merely sticks to the surface, then slides off where it is basically useless.

For all intents and purposes it might look good on the outside. But, there's nothing "under the hood" as my father a retired auto mechanic would say. As a matter of fact, this could be an indication of a hardness of the heart. Outward appearances can be deceiving!

As we engage in Bible study, or listening to a sermon, for example, are we truly letting Jesus Christ in? Or, are we merely satisfied with reading so many pages of Scripture a day, or attending church so many Sundays out of the year? Yes, this does happen!

Jesus Christ is not impressed by numbers or intentions. Scoring points or keeping up appearances does nothing for him, either. What he is interested in is our hearts. Anything short of us having a heart for him is unacceptable. (John 12:40)

Many struggle with this because they want all of the benefits of Jesus Christ without any effort. Sure, we can sit in church for hours, or read our Bibles from cover to cover. But if our hearts and minds are not open to him, then we're not giving Jesus our best. We're fooling no one but ourselves. (Ephesians 4:18)

This brings to mind the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-8). It is quite possible to be like the seed that fell on a rocky portion of the land. There the rock was only covered with a thin layer of earth. Though was enough for the seed to grow, it was not enough to develop deep roots. We all know how that worked out!

In order for us to develop deep roots of faith for Jesus Christ, we too must provide a rich, fertile environment for him in our hearts. His teachings cannot be rooted, or grounded firmly in us if we only accept him superficially. We must be able to feel His energy within us. This can only happen if desire it so. (Luke 8:15)

In conclusion, don't let Christ in one ear and out of the other. Give him what he needs to plant an accepting and lasting seed in your soul. Why settle for only a pale imitation of the rich, full relationship with Jesus within your reach. Open your heart and let him in!

Scripture: John 1:12; Galatians 3:26; Acts 16:31; John 5:24; Romans 5:1

Prayer: Dear Jesus, Your Word is enduring and life-giving; may my heart be filled with the Holy Spirit always. Amen

May God bless you always!

Brandi