Better Off Without Jesus

Better Off Without Jesus...WHAT?  If I had not heard a little of Chuck Bomar story I probably would have thought this was a book about atheism.  Isn't it funny how we can judge a "book by it's cover" or title.  That's not the core of the book though or my post.  Every once in a while I read a book and  I wish I could pen the whole book on my blog.  Take a deep breathe, I am not going to do that but what I am going to do is just give you a few glimpse of something that has stirred my soul.

First chapter: Why Physical Presence Isn't Always Best: Jesus says to His disciples, "Nevertheless, I tell you it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you".  John 16:7

My thoughts on this first chapter.   Once again I was in awe of the limitations Jesus took on in a earthly body.  He could only be in one place at a time...the Son of God...think about...only one place at a time...not even a cell phone back then.   In that respect He was all human, just like us.  

The trust He had in the Holy Spirit's ability to do exactly what He said He would do is total trust.  How many times have we read God's promises and still struggle with them?  He trusted the Spirit because He knew him personally.  Not just an hi, hello, how are you knowledge or do you have a minute, I would like to tell you something.  We cannot trust someone we do not know or someone who does not do what they say they will do time and time again.  Break my trust once, I will give grace but break my trust more then once...trust broken.  HE HAS NEVER BROKE A PROMISE. 

    Here is a small portion of chapter one.  Chuck says, "One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that focusing on myself actually muffles the voice of God right out of my life.
   Our Western culture would lead us to embrace Jesus solely as a beneficial addition to our individual lives, goals and dreams.  We think we need to invite Him to join every area of our lives.  But the truth is that He calls us to join in with His.
   Understanding this difference is absolutely essential if you want to be in tune with God's voice in your life.  If you want to hear God speak to you individually, you must begin thinking beyond yourself. 
The bigger picture: As we look at Scripture, it is abundantly clear that our coming to faith isn't just for our personal gain.  It's not to make our lives better, but instead to make the excellencies of God known.  And may I add, all over the world. II Cor. 5:14-15

One of the questions Chuck ask at the end of chapter one was:  What is your biggest insecurity when it comes to hearing God speak to you?