Love Motivates 

Jesus taught that the two most important commandments are to love God with all of our hearts and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. He then indicated that all the other biblical mandates are commentary on how to obey these two central commands (Matt 22: 34-40). Therefore, if we successfully obey the two greatest commandments, we have fulfilled the purpose that lies behind all of the Bible’s laws and instructions. 

If we believe what Jesus taught about the greatest commandment, we must learn to read the Scriptures in a way that deepens our love of God. How we accomplish that is the theme of Cycle “C.” There are many different methods that can help us read the Bible so it deepens our love for God. You’ve already experimented with one method if you copied one of the passages listed in the sixth question in Part B of this challenge. After you accurately copied one of the passages, you were asked to write any insight that you received from that passage. If you received an insight, you likely “heard” God’s inaudible voice. Your love for God grows because you know him better. This pattern ultimately leads to a more intimate relationship.

I used to read the Bible to help me figure out what I needed to fix in myself or where I was deficient and needed improvement. This approach fostered guilt which I assumed would motivate obedience and deepen my love of God. Eventually, I realized guilt was counterproductive. Love, not guilt, is transformative. Consequently, we must seek to read the Scriptures in a way that increases our love for God and others. 

Many people consider the Bible to be the ultimate self-help book. The Bible is both practical and profoundly helpful, but those are secondary benefits. Someone once encouraged me to read the Bible as a love letter from God. Viewing the Bible in this way makes great sense if your goal is to increase your love for God. 

After serving as a pastor for a couple of years, I realized that sometimes I used the Bible as a club to beat people up and make them feel guilty. Fortunately, I repented by changing both my mind and my actions. Since then, I have never intentionally used the Bible to beat people into submission to God. However, years later I was surprised to discover some parishioners believed my job was to make people feel guilty. According to them, guilt was the ultimate motivator, especially if the topic was money. I strongly disagreed because I am absolutely convinced that love is the ultimate motivator. 

A few decades ago, I discovered the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius (1541) through a book by Alex B. Aronis called Developing Intimacy with God. Through this book, I learned a way of reading the Scriptures that Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, taught the original members of that Catholic order. It was particularly helpful to me, and I will outline its basic components. But first, I want you to read several excerpts from the Introduction to Aronis’ book. They are taken from a section called “Self-Focus to Christ-Focus.” 

EXCERPTS FROM 

Developing Intimacy with God 

An Eight-Week Prayer Guide Based on “The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius” 

By Alex B. Aronis

Published by the Union Church of Manila Phils, Foundation, Inc. (Makati City, Philippines, 2001) Note: The numbers in brackets indicate the page that contains the excerpt quoted.

• Christians have developed bad habits in their devotional prayer practices. I have found, to an alarming degree that they focus on their need to improve themselves rather than on God’s gracious acceptance of them. Even though they know that they are not saved by their efforts, they have difficulty resting in God’s love. Without realizing it, they take on a not-so-subtle “works” mentality, seeking to make themselves more worthy by trying harder. They forget that God does not relate to them on the basis of performance but on the basis of his free gift of grace. [2] 

• When, for example, they meditate on the Scripture, they zero in on the verses that challenge them to have more integrity, humility, love, and faithfulness. [2] When they fail to see significant improvement in their attitudes and behavior, they become discouraged, imagining that God is as disappointed with them as they are with themselves. [2] 

• Why the discouragement? Because their devotions are not devotional! They focus on their deficiencies rather than on the goodness and loving-kindness of God. Consequently, they rarely experience delight in the Lord during their time of prayer. [2] 

• This is not to suggest that as followers of Jesus we can be indifferent to the moral requirements of Scripture. But we keep the moral law not to impress God or to prove ourselves worthy. Rather, we obey the commandments of God out of a motive of love. Jesus repeatedly taught that if we love him, we will obey what he commanded (John 14:23). [3] 

• The challenge, therefore, is to increase our love for God. In that way, we will find ourselves growing in our ability to keep the first commandment and also growing in our desire to follow the other teachings of Jesus. [3] 

• How do we deepen our love for Christ? We do it by meditating on his life here on earth so that we can understand how “wide and long and high and deep is God’s love for us” (Ephesians 3:17-19). We also do it by remembering that he loved us while we were (and are) still sinners (Romans 5:8; 1 Timothy 1:15). That he loved us first (1 John 4:7-11) means that his love is based on nothing we do. [3] 

• The disciples spent their days watching Jesus, listening to Jesus, talking about Jesus, imitating Jesus, and ultimately worshiping Jesus. They were eyewitnesses to his majesty (2 Peter 1:16). Their desire was to know him better and align their lives with his purposes. Their focus was almost entirely on him, not on themselves. [4] 

• But most Christians do not focus on Jesus. They bypass verses that speak of Jesus’ compassion and graciousness and instead gravitate to verses in the same passage that reveal deficiencies on the part of the disciples or of other persons in the narrative. Rather than rejoice in the virtues of Christ, they identify personally with the shortcomings of others and offer prayers for improvement or make resolutions to do better. [5] 

• The result is that our devotions are not devotions. Instead of focusing on Jesus and what draws us closer to him (what increases our devotion for him); we focus on our weaknesses and flaws, making resolutions to improve ourselves. Instead of developing devotion for Jesus, we are developing frustration with ourselves. [6] 

• Devotion means to be dedicated, enthusiastic, loyal, in love with. How do we increase our dedication to and delight in Christ? By noticing how great he is, looking for qualities that we can admire, observing the many reasons why he is worthy to be our Lord. [6] 

• The objective of devotions is not simply to read a Bible story or even to meditate on it, but to experience intimacy with the Father, with Jesus, and with the Spirit. And as we delight in the Lord, our devotion is deepened…. [7] 

• Personal transformation takes place as a result of noticing in increasing depths how wonderful Jesus is. [7] Transformation happens when we “fix” our eyes on Jesus, not on our many faults. [8] I implore you to focus on the qualities you see in Jesus rather than dwell on the deficiencies you see in yourself. [7]

• Our objective in reading the Bible: “Intimate knowledge of Christ that I might have a relationship with him, become like him (personal and character transformation), and live for him (life’s purpose).” [8] “With Christ!” “Like Christ!” “For Christ!” These three form a progression in which each is connected to the other. The first deals with devotion, the second with character, the third with service. Those who spend time in the company of Christ are increasingly shaped into his likeness and will want to offer themselves in service for Christ. [8] 

A Different Bible Reading Method 

Always remember our purpose in reading the Bible is not first and foremost self-improvement or developing Bible expertise, but to fall deeper in love with Jesus. This happens as we experience more of God’s love for us. As we read the Bible, we focus on God, especially as he is revealed in Jesus, not on ourselves. We read the Bible to meet the Lord and experience his love. 

IDENTIFY FOUR TYPES OF INSIGHTS 

You can meet the Lord in whatever way God chooses, but he often does so by giving you a fresh insight or even multiple insights while you are reading the Bible. Consequently, you read seeking at least one key insight or truth that stands out. There are four types of insights that are helpful to commit to memory: 

PRINCIPLE INSIGHTS (P) are revelations of comprehensive and fundamental truths relating to spiritual life. 

• They answer the question: “Is there a universal truth in this passage?” 

• An example would be a passage we’ve already considered: “It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart” (Mark 7:15). These are statements that express general principles or truths. 

• You can identify a Principle Insight in your Bible and/or in your journal with a “P”.

ATTACHMENT INSIGHTS (A) draw you closer to God by revealing something of God’s greatness or goodness. 

• An attachment Insight answers the question “What in the text inspires me to love God more?” You know you have an attachment insight when you respond with a “Wow! What a loving (or great, powerful, kind, gracious, etc.) God I serve!” 

• An example might be “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile” (Mark 6:31). 

• You identify this type of insight with an “A” in your Bible and/or journal. 

INTERIOR INSIGHTS (I) increase your self-understanding (your hidden motivations, deepest aspirations, gifts, emotional needs, hidden sins, strengths, and weaknesses). 

• An interior insight answers the question “What in this text helps me see and know myself as I really am?” 

• An example might be “Don’t be afraid. Take courage! I am here!” (Mark 6:50). It might remind you to replace your fear with faith. 

• You identify this type of insight with an “I” in our Bible and/ or journal. 

DETACHMENT INSIGHTS (D) are calls to stop or let go of anything that interferes with my wholehearted devotion to Jesus. 

• A detachment insight answers the question “How does this text instruct me to deny myself and take up my cross?” (Luke 9:23). 

• An example might be, “The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, and no fruit is produced” (Mark 4:18-19). Maybe reading this verse would remind me that I really do not need those new golf clubs. 

• This type of insight is indicated by placing an “D” in the margin of my Bible or journal. 

We literally thank God for and value all insights, but our goal is to find an attachment insight. Attachment insights help us delight in the Lord and share in his joy. They make us receptive to receive more and more of God’s love. Attachment insights also increase our love and devotion for Jesus. They draw us closer to him, helping us feel connected or attached to him. 

To find attachment insights, however, we must 1) ask for God’s assistance before and during our reading, and 2) focus on God/Jesus as we read. The Bible is not about us, but about him. Consequently, we don’t read it expecting to solve our problems, fix our character flaws, or to overcome bad habits. Nor do we read it as a self-help manual. The Bible is ultimately about Jesus (John 5:39), and if we’re reading it correctly, we’ll see Jesus more clearly and love him more deeply. As we approach the Bible with that expectation, we will hear his voice as we recognize particular insights. 

As we read, the Spirit answers our prayer and helps identify and classify insights. All insights are valuable gifts from God, but we choose just one of those insights to focus on. To do this, we again rely on the Spirit’s help. Normally, we will choose to focus on the Attachment Insight, but sometimes the Spirit may indicate one of the other types of insights is more pressing and urgent and needs our full attention. However, when both seem equally important, the default choice is the attachment insight. 

Once you have selected your primary insight from the passage, copy the verse(s) or phrase into your journal to meditate on it. The O.T. Hebrew word for “meditate” literally means to “chew the cud.” The definition of cud is “partly digested food returned from the first stomach of ruminants to the mouth for further chewing.” Chewing the cud (second chewing of what has become partly-digested grass) is how cows digest grass and hay. That is what you attempt to do when reading the Scriptures in this way. The insight you pick becomes the cud to be further chewed so it can nourish you. The goal is to internalize it. As you chew the cud, you write and explain the insight in your journal. And finally, before you finish, you thank God for the insight. 

The entire process becomes a prayer, an encounter with God. He is present and speaking to you through the insight. As you reflect (meditate) on it, your encounter with the Lord becomes more personal and intimate. His presence and your growing awareness transforms it into a sacred experience. His goodness in answering your prayer for an “Attachment Insight” has made God’s presence and love more real. The prologue to John describes Jesus’ incarnation as “the Word became flesh.” Jesus is the Living Word of God. And he comes to you through the written Word of God. 

I immersed myself in learning this method of reading Scripture during a sabbatical. I was working the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius and reading the Scriptures in this way every day for two months. The Lord changed me and blessed me in those eight weeks. I met Jesus daily, encountered his unconditional love again and again, which caused my love for Jesus to expand and deepen. I hope this way of nurturing deeper love for Jesus works for you too, but like all meaningful relationships, a commitment of time (months) and effort (using a journal) is necessary. There are no short cuts. 

Remember that a commitment becomes a habit, a rut, or a part of your daily routine. Then God transforms the rut into a groove through which his grace freely flows into your life. “The ruts of routine become the grooves of God’s grace.” Enlist some help as well. Ask a mentor for assistance, encouragement, prayer support, and accountability. You might partner with a friend who also is committing to this routine. Make pursuing the goal of increasing your love of God by experimenting with this method for two months. Spiritual growth is always a priority for disciples. Living as an apprentice of Jesus and learning the ways of Kingdom living requires perseverance, discipline, and the power of God’s Spirit. Following Jesus requires you to go all in for Jesus repeatedly in your life-long journey of faith.

THINKING IT THROUGH

“But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says." James 1:22 

THE TRUTH: The Lord continues to speak in this day and age. 

THE CHALLENGE: Disciples must learn to discern and listen to God's voice. 

After reading the “Related Scriptures” you are encouraged to think through Challenge 4 C by completing this assignment. Please use the Bible reading method outlined in the previous pages at least twice before the next meeting. Please use the following two passages: Luke 10:38-42 (the story of Jesus’ visit with Mary and Martha) and John 10:1-18 (Jesus is the Good Shepherd). This method requires you to write about the most important insight you received. Use your journal to record your insights. Writing is part of the meditating process. It requires you to articulate your thoughts. 

Related Scriptures 

John 10:27  ²⁷ My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 

Matthew 11:15 ¹⁵ Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! 

Psalm 119:11 ¹¹ I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 

Deuteronomy 4:30 ³⁰ In the distant future, when you are suffering all these things, you will finally return to the Lord your God and listen to what he tells you. 

Hebrews 1:1-3 ¹ Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. ² And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. ³ The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. 

1 Samuel 3:10 ¹⁰ And the Lord came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening.” 

Mark 9:7 ⁷ Then a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son. Listen to him.” 

Matthew 4:4 ⁴ But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” 

Matthew 17:1-5 ¹ Six days later Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. ² As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light. ³ Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus. ⁴ Peter exclaimed, “Lord, it’s wonderful for us to be here! If you want, I’ll make three shelters as memorials—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” ⁵ But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.”

Assignment 

1. Write the date at the top of the page (in your journal). 

2. Write the Scripture citation below it, either Luke 10:38-42 or John 10:1-18. 

3. Remember: As you read, you are seeking an insight, especially an “Attachment Insight,” in order to meet the Lord and experience his love. 

4. Pray: Before beginning to read the Scriptures, ask the Spirit to show you an attachment insight from the passage you are about to read. Read and continue to reread the passage attentively until you receive an insight. 

5. Identify the key insight or insights you received (verse citations) and the type of each insight. 

TYPES OF INSIGHTS: 

P Principle: “Is the insight a universal truth?” 

A Attachment: “Does the insight inspire me to love Jesus more?” 

I Interior: “Does the insight help me know myself as I really am?” 

D Detachment: “Did the insight instruct me to deny myself?” 

1. Copy the key part of the passage that contains the insight. 

2. Meditate on what the insight means and write it in your journal. 

3. Thank God for giving you the insight.

Notes 

What Makes a Book Holy? 

Christians often refer to the Bible as the Holy Bible. We believe Scripture is inspired and God-breathed. We consider the Bible is the final authority in all matters related our faith and how it is practiced. The Bible contains God’s written word. Millions of disciples read the Bible daily, immerse themselves in the good news, memorize key verses, organize their lives by the truth revealed, and cherish it above all other books. All of this is what makes the Bible “holy,” different and set apart by God. 

But we don’t venerate the Bible. We frequently underline words or phrases and may write notes in it. We may think of it as a spiritual tool, but never an object to be worshiped. When we see a Bible that obviously has been used and shows signs of wear and tear, we are more likely to be impressed than offended. Some of our Bibles may be falling apart due to frequent use. We celebrate a Bible by reading and believing the truth contained in it, not by displaying it. We consider the physical object called the Bible to be of secondary importance. The value or significance of Scriptures lies in the message and meaning, not the object itself. The Bible is holy because God speaks to us through its pages. The Bible points us to God. 

In some churches, people stand while the Bible is being read in a worship service. In many Protestant churches, the liturgist prays for understanding before reading a passage. Then when the reading is completed, he or she declares, “This is the Word of God.” The congregation then responds by saying, “Thanks be to God.” We show respect by reading and obeying it. 

Muslims also have a holy book called the Qur’an. They believe Allah dictated verbatim every Arabic word to the Prophet Mohammad (over span of 23 years). Muslims approach reading the Qur’an with reverence, following specific rules or etiquette when handling, touching, or reading from the Qur’an. 

Muslims are taught to always treat the Qur’an with respect because it is a holy book. This respect and reverence begin before they even touch the book. They perform wudu (also known as ablution), that purifies the reader from minor impurities. They wash their faces, arms, heads, and feet. They also change into clean and appropriate clothing. While reading the Qur’an, the reader must sit up straight and never slouch or lean back. 

The reader must take care to place the holy book on a Qur’an holder or on a table, but never on the floor, near anyone’s feet, or near anything that is dirty. Then the Qur’an must be closed after the reading is completed. When placing the Qur’an on a shelf or cupboard, no other book can be placed on or above it. The Quran must always be physically elevated above all other books in a room. The Qur’an should never be placed in a location lower than a bed or chair. The area around the Holy Book should be clean and completely free of dust and grime. The Qur’an is often carefully wrapped in a special cloth as a sign of honor and for protection.

Copyright © 2024 Don Waite

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