...What? Who does that? So bold, so invasive... so ... biblical?
Brother keeping brother accountable. Iron sharpening iron. The last time something like this happened was 13 years ago... I was on a 18 hour train ride and someone looked me dead in the eye and said "so what is the Lord teaching you through your Bible study?" Questions like these are as much refreshing as they are challenging. It gives me a glimpse into what I believe the body of Christ should really be like... living alongside each other, encouraging one another, holding each other accountable.
This morning my brother and I introduce ourselves and our circumstances and find we are both approaching God for answers to big decisions regarding our families and our futures. And then we discuss whose quiet time to follow in scripture, and we decide upon mine... (ugghh... really? I'm finishing up the New Testament... i.e. working my way through Revelation! Perhaps not the best quiet time material to share together?)
But as we dive in, we read about the Church in Philadelphia and find a wealth of insight and application to our lives and circumstances. Namely, it is Jesus who holds the keys of David (Being the promised Messiah) and it is HE who opens and shuts doors. No one else. (This passage from Revelation seems to refer directly to Isaiah 22:22). Contextually, this verse is discussing a persecution that is approaching this church, but in practical application to our lives, we left with a sense of peace that God is simply in control.
He holds the keys. He makes the paths straight. He opens the doors - and noone can shut doors that he has opened. He is providential enough to get us where he wants us. We can rest and trust in that.
The Gfamily is thinking our next set of doors will open soon. We'll keep you informed as the Lord guides!