It was undeniable the impact He made!
After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, people were passionate about their relationship with God. The teachings of Jesus invited them into a dynamic ongoing relationship with a living God . . . and when the altar veil ripped in two at the time of his death, people embraced what he had been teaching all along… “The Kingdom of God is at hand.”
Even the Apostle Paul (who was formerly known as Saul until he had his encounter with a risen Christ) found a new way of life . . . the “old way” was in the past and the new self, the new way . . . was something he hoped would permeate everyone’s life.
Read his words of passion regarding God . . . first from the New Revised Standard Version of Scripture – noting the word “O” . . .
Romans 11:33-36
The Message (MSG)
Is there anyone around who can explain God?
Anyone smart enough to tell him what to do?
Anyone who has done him such a huge favor
that God has to ask his advice?
Everything comes from him;
Everything happens through him;
Everything ends up in him.
Always glory! Always praise!
Yes. Yes. Yes.
Thoughts to Ponder:
We each can have that same passion Paul experienced following Christ . . .
In order to try to tap into that passion, try some of these ways to infuse our lives with words of “O”, wonder, and praise:
1. Give God the first greeting every morning
Every morning before the feet hit the ground, what if we turn our attention to God moving from “Here” to “thanks” to worship . . . “O Lord – I . . .”
2. Give God the first thanks at every meal
When we stop and say thanks for our meals, we are reminded that we are part of a bigger picture, a circle of life; with a God that supplies our needs.
3. Give God the first response to every pleasure
When you see/experience something beautiful and wish you could share it with your best friend, what if first – you share it with God by saying, “O God – WOW!”
4. Give God the first consideration in your weekly schedule
Plan a time weekly where you spend time in worship with God, whether it is online or in person. Be intentional about the time with God.
5. Make God the first supervisor or customer or all work
“Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord.” Col. 3:24)
6. Give God the first part of every paycheck.
When we count our blessings from God, it is a natural response to give freely. When we run on the “never enough” addictive rat wheel, a generous impulse to God rarely exists.