I love lists. I love creating them, posting them as a visual reminder, crossing them out. Formulas also bring me comfort in knowing how to get from point A to point B seamlessly(though, you probably couldn’t tell from my past math grades).
If I eat this and run this then I’ll weigh this…
If I make this and finish this it results in owning this…
I feel accomplished when I mark off the things I completed on the list. A list helps me know where I’m at and where I want to be. It can be my motivation just to see what I could do.
It can also be overwhelming and make me depressed when I hold a list that just keeps growing longer. Sometimes I approach the Word with this mindset. I try to find the formula that will bring me contentment. I start making a list of the qualities I need to become a true follower of Christ.
One formula that I’ve heard stressed at at SOME churches of Christ is God’s plan for salvation which is a formula that looks like this: 1. Hear 2. Believe 3. Repent 4. Confess 5.Be Baptized
I hate the strain that’s been put on this. I know I’m stepping on toes, but if you give me a chance I’ll explain.
I think I’ve just been rubbed the wrong way by some who preach this constantly. I think God is a whole lot more complicated than any formula and a ton simpler than any list. He is Love. God is Love. Without love, you have no God. Without God, you don’t have love.
If you allow yourself to fall in love with the Creator that loves you, then you’ll be willing to please Him and want to do everything for Him out of love…not because it’s a to do list.
Love attracts. This world is gonna notice when you become an example of this crazy love. It’s one that decides to let go of climbing the social status ladder and be romanced by your first Love with open arms.
Maybe I’m rambling…yes, I am. But there it is. Next time you’re digging into the Word, trying to find your formula or list, decide instead to read it like a love letter because that’s what it is. Switching up versions sometimes helps too.
“I was made to love and be loved by You”—Made to Love by Tobymac
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