R​esolving to Follow Jesus

One of the verses that has influenced me and in my journey and inspired my passion for disciplemaking is Luke 9:51 - 

As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.
I discovered that Luke uses a common Hebrew phrase to describe the resolve of Jesus to go to Jerusalem, “he set his face….” It means that Jesus fixed his gaze upon his destination and mission. He would not be distracted or detoured from accomplishing his Father’s plan for his life. Even his looming death would not deter him from the cross. I like the way The Message translates this phrase, “he gathered up his courage and steeled himself for the journey to Jerusalem.” Now that’s what I call, resolve!

Challenged by the resolve and commitment of Jesus to fulfill his life’s mission has caused me to resolve to focus upon completing the mission God has laid out for my life. I believe I can best accomplish this by committing to a daily practice of receiving nourishment from God’s Word. I am so grateful for what God has shown me in these first few days of the journey through Luke’s Gospel. Apparently, this simple Bible Study method has been a blessing and encouragement to other fellow travelers. Listen to one couple who have resolved to the daily practice of “GEARing up for the Journey.”

Thank you so much for G.E.A.R.  How can we be so old and yet still learning how to read the Bible?  The entire message, from redwood trees to how to’s, was so relevant to our lives as retired and too often relaxed partners.  I’ve journaled two pages, and I’m only in chapter 10!  I think “R” will be the hardest part but the most needed for me.  Old habits die hard, and the “senior” part of me tends to reflect too much on the past…mistakes, memories, what ifs, and why didn'ts.  It’s hard to “press on" and leave all that garbage behind. 

In addition, when conversation between [my husband] and me tends to dwindle and books or TV replace it, we will work at discussing specific scriptures as we plan our days.  Having trod the path of all the technology that is available as well as the cares of this world, I look forward to fertilizing my roots with God’s Word in a new and deeper study. I find myself even checking out several different Bibles to improve my G.E.A.R.  

And this from another outfitter:
After today’s entry, it came to me to let you know two things.  One is that I’m doing the G.E.A.R. exercise and I’m not finding it a burden, but rather a solace! Secondly, it is working to get me back into a more intimate relation with God. For many reasons, I was struggling to connect – like I had abandoned HIM when I need Him the most.  

If you would like to try out this simple method of Transformational Bible Study, look at my entry on February 26, “Essential G.E.A.R for Following Jesus.” I explain the process and give you a sample of how you might apply this method to a portion of Scripture.
May God honor your resolve to follow Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.