Personal Harvests

by Bud Lambert

While serving as a Bible teacher at Central Hinds Academy and Natchez Trace Academy in Jackson, Mississippi, I observed two general types of students. One type made relatively good grades, enjoyed coming to class, and usually talked positively about the class and me (the teacher). The other type didn't make good grades, didn't enjoy coining to class, and usually were critical of the class and me. I asked myself, why the differences? Both types had the same teacher; both studied the same lessons; and both were afforded the same opportunities in class.
Obviously there are many possible reasons, but one became increasingly clear to me: "input." The students who benefited from the class put a lot into it. They listened, took notes, did their class work, did their homework, asked questions, and studied. Those who didn't benefit from the class didn't put a lot into it.
This same principle applies to being a Christian and a member of any autonomous church. If we don't feel we're benefiting from being a Christian, it may be because we're not adequately applying ourselves to having the Christian life. Likewise if we don't feel we're benefiting from being a member of a particular congregation, it may be because we're not adequately applying ourselves as a member of the congregation.
"A man reaps what he sows" ( Galatians 6:7). The Christian life, as designed by God, is an abundant life. The Christian life, as designed by God, is an abundant life. The church, as designed by God, is a dynamic, beautiful association of Christians that no organization on earth can compare to.
If you aren't experiencing these as such, it could be you haven't been applying yourself enough.
Excercise: -
1. Read the following: James 2:14-26; Matthew 25:31-46; Hebrews 5:11-6:3; 2 Peter 1:3-11.
2. Identlfy at least one way you can change your life to be more Christ-like. Identify one activity of the church you can be Involved in.
3 Make it a point to be more active in these areas this week.