“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.”- 1 Peter 1:8
As Timothy Keller concludes Chapter 1 of Prayer, he cites Scottish theologian John Murray (Redemption: Accomplished and Applied, 1955), who wrote about the normality of experiencing overwhelming joy in prayer:
“It is necessary for us to recognize that there is an intelligent mysticism in the life of faith . . . of living union and communion with the exalted and ever-present Redeemer. . . . He communes with his people and his people commune with him in conscious reciprocal love. . . . The life of true faith cannot be that of cold metallic assent. It must have the passion and warmth of love and communion because communion with God is the crown and apex of true religion.”
Pastor Keller notes that one particular phrase of Murray’s stood out- intelligent mysticism. Pastor Keller defines this as an “encounter with God that involves not only the affections of the heart but also the convictions of the mind.” In other words, our choice is not between truth and doctrine or between spiritual power and experience. Communion and kingdom prayers grow together like twin trees, stimulating each other.
Today’s question: How have you enriched your prayer life during your desert, transitional journey? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Enlightening the eyes of your heart”
