“As I see it, we live at the intersection of two theologies, two realities. The faithfulness of God is pursuing us from the past — so far, so God. . . . And the sovereignty of God is setting us up for the future — the best is yet to come. . . . Simply put, God’s got this. God’s got you.”- Mark Batterson
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”- Psalm 23:6 (ESV)
“The purpose of theology is doxology.”- J. I. Packer (1926-2020)
Mark Batterson continues Chapter 13 of Please Sorry Thanks as he stresses that the tipping point, the turning point, in whether you languish or flourish is thanks. Thanks creates the difference between a positive and a negative attitude. Above all, Pastor Batterson notes, positivity serves as more than simply a function of personality. It’s also a function of theology.
Consequently, when you doubt, you allow your circumstances to get between you and God. Certainly, Mark states, he isn’t suggesting that we ignore reality. But we do need to confront the brutal facts — and do so with unwavering faith. Because, Mark underscores, in faith you put God between you and your circumstances. Gratitude = the difference between bitter and better.
J. I Packer, general editor of the English Standard Version, earned his doctor of philosophy from Oxford. In addition, he taught theology at Regent University in Vancouver, Canada, for almost forty years. Most significantly, Packer began every class by singing the doxology. Hence, Pastor Batterson explains:
“Theology is the study of God, but the goal isn’t knowledge. . . . The goal is worship! Whatever you don’t turn into praise turns into pain. Theology that doesn’t lead to doxology is spiritual constipation. Most of us are educated way beyond the level of our obedience already. We don’t need to know more; we need to do more with what we know. Or maybe I should say, we need to worship more with what we know!”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you live at the intersection of two theologies? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Backstory of the blessing”
