20-21 God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.
I didn't get anything the first time through to call out and write abut so I read second time through in the Message. This just struck me because God can do what every he wants, but His way is to work from the inside out. He doesn't make us do anything. He gives us free choice but he works on our hearts. I feel those times in my heart when I know I should be taking an action, its not my brain its not even my normal nature or thought, its God speaking to my heart hoping I will respond to him--but not making me.
thats my take anyway.
knut
I love the verse you picked. It shows love, compassion, collaboration.....a very warm feeling from God.
ReplyDeleteI didn't really pick out specific verses here either. But, this is a MONUMENTALLY huge chapter in the thinking of the Jewish people. This is really the first time its written that the outsiders have the same privilege and opportunity with God as the insiders. God's plan was to bring the Jews and Gentiles together. There is no more separation. We are all people that Christ died for.
I imagine this would have been an earth shaker for some of those reading it.
tp