Who reads the direction?

This question is often asked of me as an IT worker.  So many times with computer issues, whether software questions or setting up a new server, the answer a user is looking for is in the most obvious place, the direcitons/manual.  If we would just take the time to read the directions/manual we would be able to answer our own questions. Isn't that true with our Christian walk as well?

I was reading the 4th book put out by Willow Creek Church entitled 'Move'.  This series of books are based on the results of an extensive survey of 1000 churches across America (which started with Willow Creek Church) that was given to the attenders of these churches.  The survey was about all things church. The ultimate goal was to see what helped people grow spiritually and how the church was doing with helping the attenders spiritual walk.  In the first chapter of this book the author's made the statement that the best help for any Christian, no matter if they are a new convert or a life long believer, in growing spiritually was reading and meditating on God's word.  So in essence, reading God's directions for us.

This idea is not new to me, but at the same time hit me hard.  During my 3 year stint as Elder at Grace Community Church the question "How can we help our congregation grow spiritually?" is asked at every Elder meeting.  And we come up with different ideas and programs that can help. They do link back to getting people in the word!  Then we take time to pray for our congregation and ask God help us  assist his congregation in looking to him for their needs.  Now just reading the directions is not always enough. It is by the power of the Holy Spirit that our lives and hearts are changed.  That is what is so hard at times as an Elder is that in the end it is by God's grace, through the work of the Holy Spirit, that brings people closer to him.  Not by anything we do.

Ephesians 2:8-9

New International Version (NIV)

⁸ For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹ not by works, so that no one can boast

So many times in life, when I have a tough decision or am not sure what to do, I try to lean on my own strength and understanding. When in reality, I should get into God's word (bible) and get on my knees to seek the Lord's will and ask for his strength to guide me.  I need to stop and read the directions.