Really Simple

So I judged that to know nought but Jesus Christ and him crucified was the way, the only way of this Gospel, which is demonstrated divinely by the Spirit and by power, not by persuasive preaching. I Cor. 2:2 (St. Paul From the Trenches)

This really is a simple Gospel, one that doesn't convince a man by persuasive speeches or arguments or philosophy. The Gospel in its simplest form only needs to be preached - then the Spirit, whose job description states that He convicts, not man, not by persuasive words. (see John 16:7-9)

So, perhaps we need to step out of the way, and preach Jesus, and him crucified as the only way. Nothing else is required, just the crucifixion of Jesus.

It's really very freeing when we admit we can do nothing, and devote ourselves to discovering what happened on the Cross.

Great Pleasures

I've been thinking about some of the greatest pleasures in life that I have experienced. I thought of things like:

Sleeping in
Climbing into a bed made with freshly laundered linens after a nice hot shower
Cuddling with my husband
Eating a great meal with friends and family
When Jake (my cat) comes to me in an affectionate and cuddly mood

But of all these things I think these are greater:

Experiencing unity in my local church, especially during worship
Being overwhelmed by the presence of the Lord
Hearing the Lord speak (whether through dreams, experiences, visions, etc)
Having the Word of God LEAP off the page and into my spirit

These things are such great pleasures. Thinking on this last group inspires me to continue to pursue Him in whom I have placed my hope and my trust!