The person praying the invocation prayer paraphrased Jeremiah 33:3, one of my favorite devotional scriptures. Surprisingly, I was annoyed that the person used my favorite scripture. Let me repeat that: I was annoyed that someone used a Bible verse appropriately in a prayer. Let’s examine the absurdity and implications of my annoyance.
Because I often use Jeremiah 33:3 as an invocation for my devotional time with God, I felt it belonged to me. I was annoyed when I heard it used in a corporate prayer; in that moment, I felt as if something had been stolen from me. But God’s word is for God’s people to use as the Holy Spirit guides. If the Holy Spirit directs others to use that scripture (or any other scripture), who am I to sulk? More importantly, someone else using Jeremiah 33:3 does not diminish what that scripture means for God and me. It is still special in our relationship.
I am also annoyed when a statement or occurrence “hits too close to home.” That morning’s invocation prayer was just such an occurrence. I was annoyed because hearing Jeremiah 33:3 in that prayer convicted me. Why? Hearing that scripture reminded me that I had not invoked it in quite some time. I had not been consistent with my daily devotional time with God. Although I had written previously about scheduling a committed daily date with God, I had lapsed. I was annoyed with myself. Hearing Jeremiah 33:3 was my wake-up call to once again hang my DND[1] sign every morning. God used that scripture in that prayer to remind me to devote time to him daily.
The Bible is mine, but I do not own it. The messages, lessons, and revelations I receive as I interact with God’s Word are for me. They bind me to God. Yet, the Bible is God’s Word for the multitudes. It is ludicrous to expect no one else to be inspired by my favorite scripture. Instead of being annoyed, I should examine how God is using that scripture to give me a fresh perspective. How is God using that scripture to reveal a new insight?
Reflection: What annoys you? Why? How can you use that annoyance to further your relationship with God?
[1] DND=Do Not Disturb
Powerful & Beautiful. May God forever keep blessing you with your blessed skill.
Ouch! I’m convicted as well. Getting my DND sign together. Bless you!
Well stated.
I get annoyed at myself for the quick and sound rationale I can apply to other people’s lives and situations, but not always to mine. I can give very sound advice but not always accept it. Situations are sometimes placed in front of us using others to play the part while the message is meant for us.
I am very much still a work in progress.
What a blessing to read your thoughts on scriptures that appeal to you so that they have become part of your repertoire. I have some favorite scriptures also and I feel part of the larger community when I hear others quote them. I believe this is all a part of our Christian growth. God bless you for presenting your thoughts so we can have a forum for discussion as we continue our Christian maturity.
Well stated, Bri! I agree that every experience and all thoughts are direct messages from God and that there are no accidents. What we do with the experience and thoughts will continue to direct our path(s). In making the final decision(s) we are allowed an opportunity of choice to move towards maturity in Christian Growth. What are your thoughts?
This is so personal to me at this place and time in my life. Beautiful and thoughtful!