Before You Read The Scriptures (or any other spiritual text)

Hi! I have had a fun journey with God! My journey starts out as a black and white Christian, living by the law, striving to do the right thing, seeing the scripture as "morals to be followed", but as I spent time with God, I began to realize that not only was this way of "being a Christian" exhausting, but it didn't fit the God that I was getting to know. Sure I was a nice person, but there are a lot of nice people. It's not about that, it's a practice of the presence of God that changes you, and shows you the way of love. So, this is the perspective I come from. Here are some things that I think you should know before you read the scriptures, or any other spiritual text.

(BTW, I am going to refer to God as They because I believe They are neither male or female)

1. God is love, so when you read spiritual texts realize that God loves everybody and everything unconditionally. This is tough for us as humans because we do not love this way, but They do!

2. The Bible and other texts were written by humans, so as you read it remember that they are also growing as they write it. Their view is not a perfect one. They may not say everything perfectly and it may not have been translated perfectly. With this said, God is perfect, and at the same time They can be shown in imperfection!

3. The Bible in particular is not to be read for moralistic reasons. Don't use it as a self-help book. Does it contain morals and is God perfect, YES! But, he changes you over time as you spend time with him and follow him. You are being renewed slowly. Give yourself a break.

These are the main points I want to make that can change the way your approach scripture, and the way you approach life! There is always so much to learn. Be open minded and allow God the pleasure of changing your way of thinking!

With this said, enjoy the adventure of reading, questioning, meditating and praying over sacred texts! It is the most exciting adventure you will ever have!