Preparation for the world
Psalms 78:70~72 He chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance. And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them. (70~72)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #347 We are Bound for Canaan Land (#382 in previous version)
In order to save the world and church, the people of God must enter inside the world. Before we venture into the world, we must be armed with the Gospel. If we are not well armed, we will eventually be shaken without knowledge concerning the Gospel and unbelief. We can shake as we look at the people around us who we respect doing well without the Gospel. For this reason, before heading into the world there are three things we must engrave in our hearts.
1. What we must first possess
We need to possess the spiritual eyes before entering the world. Despite their worldly successes, we must be able to see the hidden problems these successful individuals have. The children of God possess authority unknown to the people of the world. Therefore, the people of God with the Gospel have no need to fear, look down upon, or feel burdened by the world.
2. What we must not be deceived by
As children of God, we must hold on to our identity when entering into the world. Although we must study hard, we must not be deceived by the theories, academics, and incorrect ideologies of the world. In addition, we must establish many interpersonal relationships with others; however we must not lose hold of what is important. With the confidence as children of God who are holding on to the Gospel, we must be capable of helping the people who have fallen into the problems of their reality, as well as those who are suffering from hidden spiritual problems.
3. What we must enjoy
We must receive recognition in three aspects. We must be recognized in our churches and businesses as decent individuals, recognized by our teachers as great students, and recognized for the extraordinary efforts we display in the tasks given to us. With the Gospel we must recreate, reinterpret, and readapt to everything. From that moment, you will discover the blessing of uniqueness.
- While preparing for the world, meditate upon what you must hold on to inside the Gospel. Then, organize what you must first hold on to and must not be deceived by, and enjoy as you apply these things to your life.
Preparatory College Student Retreat / 2011.2.8