Conversion & Calling, Student Workbook, SW01

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C O N V E R S I O N A N D C A L L I N G

Perhaps the saddest tragedy in the lives of millions of people is that they are giving themselves over to things that, in the long run, won’t matter at all. They are living for fleeting pleasures, material possessions, and personal accomplishments that within a hundred years either won’t exist or won’t matter at all. To really live well we must not merely have great passion, but we must direct our passions and desires after the things that will last, and the things that really matter. According to the Word of God, very few things really matter, and therefore, few things are to be desired and sought after. One of the most significant treasures spoken of in Scripture is the very Word of God itself. God declares that his Word, the written Word of the Holy Scriptures, is a treasure that is worthy of our most sincere and concentrated efforts to acquire. Nothing on earth lasts like it; nothing can provide us with the wisdom, insight, hope, and joy that it gives. The Word of God is a profoundly rich asset, giving light to the eyes, joy to the heart, wisdom to the spirit, and hope to one’s life. The psalmist here makes plain the remarkable desirability of the living Word of God to us. There is nothing that we own or could own that is as valuable and important as God’s Word regarding his Son, his plan, and our hope. In keeping them we are warned, and in clinging to them there is great reward. Are you seeking the Word of God like you seek money, or pleasure, or free time, or great opportunity? Nothing in this world is as valuable or as significant as a deep knowledge of God’s Word. Where is the desire of your heart today? After reciting and/or singing the Nicene Creed (located in the Appendix), pray the following prayers: Eternal God, our Father, we praise you for your desire to reveal yourself to us through your Word. You have blessed us by preserving your gracious promise and pronouncement through the Scriptures, which you inspired by your own Holy Spirit. Now, through that same Spirit, you are teaching us about your Son, and your glorious plan to restore all things in him. How we bless your high and holy name for your living and abiding Word, and we ask that you would grant to us your wisdom as we learn together the power and greatness of your Word.

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Nicene Creed and Prayer

Merciful God, heavenly Father, Thou hast said to us through the mouth of Thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, “Pray the Lord of the harvest,” Upon this Thy divine