A little application.

We had such a beautiful sunrise this morning. Rays of warm sunshine spilled into every window of the house, as if gleefully urging sleepy people to wake up and explore the new day. I was glad to see it and enjoy it's warmth.

It seems that as much as I try to make time for blogging and other internet socialization, days go by without number and here I am *months* later... ok, slight exaggeration... still struggling to pull out a post or two. I miss having the time to sit and share out of the overflow of my heart and listen to your insights and experiences. Speaking of which, I have not yet responded to all of the vitally helpful comments on my previous post, but I wanted to thank you all for the encouragement. I loved hearing your opinions and struggles right now. It really helped me. Thank you.

God is teaching me so much, but mostly He is allowing me to apply what He's shown me. I feel like the things He has taught me in the last months have prepared me for this season I am walking in right now. He requires us to apply what we are learning--because that is the point of the Word ... to change us and transform our lives more into the image of Christ. There is a high responsibility that comes with knowledge; it requires application.

Applying the truth that we are learning in our inner man (or woman) is where we find the true value of God's Word and His character. I loved what Charles Spurgeon said:

The grand point is not to wear the garb, nor use the brogue of religion, but to posses the life of God within, and feel and think as Jesus would have done because of that inner life. Small is the value of external religion unless it is the outcome of a life within."

If what we are learning and applying will make us more like Jesus, then here lies the purpose and calling of our lives. We are to take up our cross and follow Him. No matter what.