Do You Know How to Love God? - Rural Reset 1/21 [3]

Episode Description:
In this episode, Pastor TJ Freeman addresses common struggles Christians face in their relationship with God, such as finding Bible reading unengaging, experiencing a stagnant prayer life, and feeling disconnected during church services. He offers practical advice on rekindling a love for God, drawing from personal experiences and scriptural insights. Join us as we simplify and refocus our spiritual walk to foster a deeper, more meaningful connection with the Lord.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Admitting Struggles in Faith:
   • Common frustrations in a Christian's walk with the Lord.
   • Feeling disconnected from the Bible and prayer.
2. Challenges in Bible Reading:
   • The Bible feeling outdated or irrelevant.
   • Overwhelmed by complex passages and long lists.
   • Time constraints and lack of excitement.
3. Difficulties in Prayer Life:
   • Feeling like prayers are unheard or ineffective.
   • Comparing oneself to others' seemingly eloquent prayers.
   • Forgetting to pray or lacking meaningful prayer time.
4. Engagement in Church:
   • Struggling to stay focused during sermons.
   • Not feeling emotionally connected to worship music.
   • Kids' reluctance to attend church.
5. Simplifying and Refocusing:
   • Clearing the clutter to start fresh in your spiritual walk.
   • Emphasizing the basics of Christian faith in rural settings.
6. Loving God:
   • Jesus' greatest commandment: Loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:34-38).
   • Understanding love as a choice and an active effort.
   • Learning to love God despite struggles, trials, and past experiences.
7. Transformation through Renewal:
   • The role of renewing your mind in spiritual transformation (Romans 12:1-2).
   • Loving what God loves and hating what He hates.
   • Actively engaging in transforming thoughts and behaviors to align with God's will.
8. Practical Steps:
   • Addressing negative thoughts and cultivating positive ones.
   • Embracing difficult circumstances and people with Christ-like love.
   • Memorizing and meditating on key scriptures to renew your mind.

Conclusion:

• Encouragement to embrace the basics of loving God and renewing your mind.
• Emphasizing that transformation is a collaborative process between God's power and our active participation.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 22:34-38: Jesus' teaching on the greatest commandment.
• Romans 12:1-2: The call to be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

Call to Action:

• Reflect on your current relationship with God.
• Take practical steps to renew your mind and rekindle your love for God.
• Engage actively in your spiritual growth for the benefit of your soul, community, and the glory of God.

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