The Apostle Paul in the New Testament is one example of a Christ-follower on the unexpected journey to a close personal relationship with the godhead. Paul knew the religious Jehovah, he knew of the coming Messiah, and because of his religious upbringing—a Pharisee—he had an understanding of the Spirit of Jehovah.
However, he was not a Christ-follower; he was a religious zealot. He knew the law, (the Pentateuch, and the prophets) but now not the lawgiver. Paul’s journey to the city of Damascus became his unexpected encounter with Jesus, which led to his unexpected journey to a close personal relationship with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
It is important that you do not get caught up in a relationship with the trinity—Father, Son, Holy Spirit. The deeper you into this unexpected journey, the more you learn. I have been on the journey long enough, hard enough, that I have been able to distinguish times that I am in the presence of God the Father, God the Son, or God the Holy Spirit. It does not make me special any more than it makes someone less special who is seeking a close personal relationship with God. The journey is yours and yours alone. You may share similarities with others on the same journey, but you will likely have experiences that are uniquely yours alone—relish them.
It is my speculation that the Apostle Paul is an A-type personality (using the type A-B personality theory). This means that he is out there, out-spoken, quick to act for a worthy cause, but very much aware of its impact on this social status. He was not afraid to speak his mind or stand up for what he believed.
I can relate to Paul. In fact, I resemble Paul—in that personality manner. This is why such an understanding is so important.
Paul was keen on his surroundings. He could quickly read the situation, thus formulating an opinion as well as a solution. There are several accounts in the New Testament writings beginning with the book of Acts, and following, where this landed him in trouble or jail, or alongside the road badly beaten.
Yet, throughout the apostle’s writings, he never writes about the trouble or turmoil surrounding him. His political views and opinions are never mentioned, and apart from sighting his personal struggles to make a point, he never writes about his personal feelings.
The overriding factor in this serves as proof that the Bible is written by the inspiration of God the Holy Spirit, using imperfect men and women to write the sacred scriptures. However, I find it amazing that someone with such a strong personality is able to lay down those feelings in order to continue into such a deep close personal relationship with the godhead.
His story should serve as an encouragement to all on this unexpected journey. He certainly does not do it perfectly. In his writings to the Christ-followers in Rome, he states how he battles his spiritual desires against his natural fleshly desires. He wants to do the right thing, only to do the wrong thing—he is very much human.
I say all of this because my human side is screaming at the flood of unrighteous behavior that is overwhelming America, as well as the world. My A-type personal has quickly formed an opinion along with a solution, while my skills itch to write about it for anyone interested to read.
However,
My New Testament mentor, the Apostle Paul, shows me a different path to take!!!! Arrgh!
I pray that your Thanksgiving is both happy and enjoyable.