Feb 13

The second chapter of 1 Corinthians is one of the most profound, deepest sections of the Bible. For the one who would know God, no better recommendation can be given than to read 1 Cor. 2.

There is a lot of teaching in the world, and even in the church, about how to get to know God. Much of it is based on using the intellect and reasoning powers. But, while God can make use of the mind, it is not the main way he has chosen to reveal himself to us.

It is important from the first to know that we cannot come to know God solely through the use of our intellect. As a prelude to the deep truths revealed in 1 Cor. 2, the chapter preceding it proclaims:

"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate" (1 Cor. 1:19).

I have worked for many years with youth and sometimes also have the honor of remaining part of their lives once they grow up. One such young man kept in contact with me through email, and I found myself challenged by his probing questions. He is a deep thinker and is questioning all that he was taught and believed while in our youth group. Though I constantly remind him that he cannot come to know God through the use of his reasoning powers, he just as constantly reverts back to using his intellect as the sole means by which he seeks to do this -- and he has trouble understanding when I speak of the need to trust the Holy Spirit's work within him rather than his own conclusions derived from reasoning.

Perhaps this has been a problem for you as well. I pray that as we continue examining the Spirit's role in our coming to know God, that you will benefit.

Scripture for today: 1 Cor. 1:19
Thought for today: Frustration is the end result of trying to know God solely with the mind.
Prayer for today: Lord, I ask you to grant me satisfaction, not frustration, in my quest to know you better. Let me follow your way, not mine.

FEB 13