Thanks John for this fabulous series on “Everybody has a Story”! Bonhoeffer’s poem was incredible moving, thanks for sharing. Now I’ll have to buy his prison letter poems 👍
Knowing another’s story enables me to appreciate them far more. Was familiar with Cost of Discipleship & Life Together but unaware of Prison Poems. Much to ponder.
What I truly enjoy about John is how most of his teachings take a turn that, for me, is unexpected, but becomes the crux of the story. Today was a perfect example by ending with Psalm 139. I will reread it and reflect on it, not as a praise psalm but as an introspective exercise. Thank you, John.❤🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Such a great devo today. Bonhoeffer’s confidence in Jesus is so encouraging. During the Ps 139 prayer, a thought came to mind about something I believe was an offense in my relationship to God. After the devo, I dealt with it and am so grateful it’s been taken care of. TY everyone! 0:03
For years, this prayer was terrible for me. Somewhere along the line, it has become a prayer of desperate longing. But, I suspect the longing is only a stop on a longer journey.
This was a powerful message! I don’t think I have ever asked God where is the fear in me, now I know why, its the fear keeping me from asking that question? I will be asking and praying psalm 139. The poem is powerful, I will watch again.Thank you John for sharing with Gods Grace, Love and Passion.. Thank you BecomeNew for all you do to share Gods love.
What you're describing, fear to identify or ask God about our fear, is sometimes what holds us back the most. Continue pursuing his freedom, and Psalm 139 is a beautiful place to hear God's words. Thank you so much for sharing this! - Brad
Oh my goodness, it was as if you knew me! To others I am encouraging, helpful and kind. At home I am critical, self-condemning and swear quite a bit, especially when I do something stupid! But I think and I hope that my real story is that in spite of my ‘self story’ I am chosen and loved by God and for that I will be forever grateful.
Since yesterday when I watched this, I have been thinking of this idea of me playing a supporting (blessing) role in someone else’s story, but at the same time receiving so much blessing in my own story. What a concept to ponder! From a human perspective, I think if I am being poured out for someone else that I’m going to end up empty… but no! God takes care of that. It goes right along with what the psalmist says in the 23rd: “You anoint my head with oil (you give me a job, to bless someone); my cup overflows (I am blessed)”
So very thoughtful and "it is more blessed to receive" comes to life not only in your story but those you pour into. Thank you for sharing your heart Bucky
Who am I? What a deep question. Definitely so much more and different from, the ‘me’ I choose to reveal to the world. Search me O God as I walk with you.
Wow... lots to unpack. I often think about who I am and how it does not match the person others see. If the difference is a chasm and purposeful, I am doing something wrong. It means I have not fully embraced Bonhoeffer's surrender to God when he says, "I am thine." I want my story to be whole but that cannot happen without God leading me "in the way everlasting." Much easier to write than to do...
Thank you for sharing a deep and true reflection - and yes so much easier to write than do - on our own. Keeping our eyes and heart on the one who gives us strength - the journey is all part of our story and every story matters to God. We appreciate you Blessings Bucky
