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Baptist / R E F L E C T I O N S F R O M B E N W A K E F I E L D
SEEKING the
CREATOR
We will see God in action when we have our attention and direction towards loving God. In Craig’s absence, I have been asked to write about the theme of this issue, God’s power. The idea of God’s power is going to be discussed in different ways throughout this issue.
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hen talking about God’s power some might mean the supernatural work of sanctification, some might mean the outward expression of spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit, some might mean the breaking of hearts to see people who are oppressed free from slavery both systemic and personal. Yes, yes, yes and much more. God’s power is expressed in many and varying ways. We could describe and prescribe what the power of God is in more words than available here but I am not sure this is helpful. Instead I want to share some thoughts on following Jesus.
08 † v.132 no.3 baptistmag.org.nz
When following Jesus Christ we are drawn close by God’s power giving us grace. Participating in church services, meeting in small groups, discussions on Facebook, tears over injustice, laughter in celebration, frustration in work, joy in families and the full experience of life is God giving us grace. Just think of the food you ate today, the water you drank, the breath you just took. These are God’s gifts to us and we are able to use them to turn our affection and hearts towards God. Then in turn we learn God’s heart and live a life of love and power. Getting closer to God means we see God working more. It would be weird, and idolatrous, for us to continually seek after the next cup of coffee. As if coffee is the way we can have life and live it to the full. In our eagerness and commitment to following Jesus we could only see
GETTING CLOSER TO GOD MEANS WE SEE GOD WORKING MORE. things happening day to day if the good gift of coffee was given. For all you parents of young children this is probably too close to home. If we then said to God… “Yes, we will direct our attention and love towards you... once we have our coffee” then we are seeking after the gifts of the creator before loving the creator who gives us the black elixir of life. —If you need to suspend your reading for a time of