Our Spiritual Toolbox
   Week 8:  What Are You Building?

Introduction: 

We’ve looked at some good basic tools that are useful to have in our spiritual toolboxes.  Tools, of course, aren’t meant to stay new, shiny, and unused.  Our lives, circumstances, and relationships need the tools of our faith.  We are each called to build, maintain, and repair with Jesus, the best carpenter.


So, what are you and Jesus building?  Or maybe working to repair, like a broken relationship?  Or perhaps you are working to maintain and keep a situation in good working order?  Remember you build along with Jesus who holds the blueprints.  Remember that when a building project seems too big for you, he’s right there with you, instructing and guiding you.


Scripture:

“But you, beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves in the love of God; look forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” 

— Jude 1:20-21

Invitations: 

 ♦ Reflecting on this week’s scripture: 

– What words or phrases speak to you?  Is there anything here that is uncomfortable for you?
– Rewrite the scripture “journal fashion.”  Write it out phrase by phrase.  Write your thoughts, feelings, challenges, and insights for each phrase.    Be honest!  Don’t worry if you seem to go off-track.  Stream of consciousness is helpful with this kind of writing.  What do you discover?


♦ We began this series with the words of Joel above.  Looking back on the last several weeks:

  • Do you understand these words differently than you did before?
  • What words or phrases speak to you now?

♦ What are you called to build, maintain, and repair in your life?  In the world around you?

♦ Are there any “building projects” you need to let go of?  Why?

♦ Which of the tools we have reflected on do you need most?  Why? 
  What additional tools do you need to add to your spiritual toolbox?  Why?


Prayer:

Jesus,

I am your beloved,

And you call me to build my life of faith

In that belovedness.

Build, repair, and maintain with me!

Build my faith, my prayer, my love, and my hope.


Amen.