Mar 1

"Expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words . . ." (1 Cor. 2:13).

How often we experience the futility of trying to explain the gospel to an unbeliever because of lack of understanding about the meaning of words. Language is the main way we have of communicating with one another, and surely the barrier of language is a major hindrance. It is not just that there a host of different languages in the world; even when two people speak the same native language, misconceptions about the meanings of words can ruin communication.

The word God, for instance, is commonly used in probably every language on earth, yet the meaning of that word by no means is the same in every language. To some, God is simply a force that exists. To others, God is only an idea. To others yet, God is a being who is greater than man, but still not the all-powerful Being of the Bible. So when we speak to another of God, they may think that they know about whom we are speaking and yet we are worlds apart in understanding.

The world listens to those who are of the world because they speak the same language. But those who desire God listen and understand those who speak the language of the Spirit.

"They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood" (1 John 4:5, 6).

Scripture for today: 1 Cor. 2: 13; 1 John 4: 5, 6
Thought for today: The things of the spirit require words to match its deep nature.
Prayer for today: Lord, when I witness to others about you, I ask you to help me communicate with them, for it is their soul that is at stake, and I do not want my inability to express your love to them to prevent them from accepting you. Thank you for helping me to communicate with you and others.

MAR 01