The topic of today’s video is about how to have a teachable spirit. Not because I’m an expert, but because there have been several occasions of late where I’ve noticed myself resistant to growth in certain areas. And it’s caused me to consider what I need to do differently.
I believe God loves a cultivated product. Cultivation doesn’t always feel good, but if I’m honest, I know the end result can be beautiful.
Every once in a while, I like to head through town and walk the courtyard and gardens of a local art museum. Seeing the natural habitat full of balance and symmetry not only provides a stunning landscape to admire and enjoy, it also brings to mind the importance of intentional development.
When I think about the attributes of a teachable spirit, perhaps intention is the driving force, but later in the video, I’ll share what I believe could be the strongest ingredient of all.
To start though, there’s a passage in Acts 16 that I’d like to highlight where the Apostle Paul was forbidden by the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, and a night vision directed him to Macedonia instead.
As the journey unfolded, Paul and his travel companions made their way across the Aegean Sea through the rugged Greek island of Samothrace, into Neapolis, and finally to Philippi, a leading city of Macedonia.
After Paul remained in Philippi for a few days, he headed outside the city gate on the Sabbath, in search of a gathering place for prayer near the riverside. It was there a historic meeting took place with Lydia, a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira.
In reading the account, there is a subtle impression of a sacred, peaceful haven on the Sabbath. And here’s the part I love. Scripture tells us the Lord opened Lydia’s heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. We only have a brief snapshot of the event, but in continuing the passage, we learn that Lydia was a business woman, she managed a household, she was hospitable, and in her own way, she became a leader in the early Philippian church.
Beneath the layers of this iconic story, we also learn the secret to a surrendered heart and a teachable spirit. It is a willing, open and honest frame of mind. Willing to pause. Willing to listen. Willing to acknowledge and accept that my way is not always the best way, and that I can grow by receiving from those around me.
In God’s economy, surrender is not defeat. It’s a sacrifice of love to the One who honors humility, and takes pleasure in doing His greatest work through an open heart. The Apostle Paul surrendered his own will to follow the Spirit.
The Lord opened Lydia’s heart to receive the gospel of Christ and transform a community in need. For both of them, the willingness to yield made all the difference, and it became a foundation for God to breathe new life across geography and generations to accomplish His plan.
That same opportunity is still here today. For me. And for you. May we be pliable in the Master’s hand.
Find more encouraging content at:
https://livebeyondthesurface.com/
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