If you've been following me on Facebook, you're probably aware that I recently read through the book of Colossians. IT'S SO GOOD!

Almost every other line can be used as a great memory verse... or an awesome status update.

I'm always amazed at how God's word seems to follow my life and give guidance where needed.

When I read His Word...
It feels like He's beside me.
It's like He's watching over me.
It's like He's speaking straight to me.

Let me give you just a few examples:

*On the day a terrorist attack took place, I read: "Christ is all that matters"Col. 3:11, NLT. This verse gently reminded me that God has already destroyed evil through the power of His Son. We will face tragedy. However, it will pass; Jesus will come again and restore this fallen world. Jesus is truly what matters the most!

*On the day I gathered with my staff to discuss our monthly leadership reading on the topic of excellence, I read: "Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men" Col. 3:23, NLT. Wow! Really? It's almost like God's doing my homework for me so that I was prepared to lead the upcoming discussion. This verse was a great reminder of how we ultimately do our best because of who we represent. After all, He gave His best for us. We should absolutely do our best for Him!

*On the day that the Supreme Court came out with the decision to legalize same-sex marriage (and Facebook BLEW UP), I read: "...make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversations be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone" Colossians 4:6, NLT. I must admit that I was a little disappointed with both sides of the debate. The language and tone was neither "gracious" nor "attractive." I truly believe that it's possible to affirm my belief in the biblical definition of marriage in a very loving and caring way.

It is amazing how clearly God has been speaking to me. It's like carrying on a personal conversation with God Himself. Maybe this is what the writer of Hebrews was getting at when he said, "The word of God is ALIVE and powerful." (Hebrews 4:12)

If only we would take more time to really study...
If only we would take more time to really try to understand the fullness of Scripture...
If only we would allow ourselves to be guided and transformed through the Word...

Each day could be and would be very different.

Blessings,
Jimmy McIlrath