Listen to the preaching of the word like your life depends on it

because it does.

Ive chosen a new year's resolution. read my bible, listen to what it says, trust and obey. easy enough right?

And thanks Mr Watson, for this:

determine to PRACTICE whatever you read. Christians should be walking Bibles, living the truths written. the Word is not only a guide to knowledge, but a guide to obedience. a holy reading of God’s Word results in our fleeing from sins and practicing the duties commanded.  
 — Thomas Watson (c. 1620—1686)

In summary, obedience is a great way of commenting on the bible.

ultimate empathy

i can't get enough of Jon Acuff. usually hilarious and satirical, his writing gets serious and sweet sometimes and it's worth leaning in and taking note.  i tucked one of his recent posts away because it struck a chord with me and reminded me of the empathy of Christ. . .  you might love it.

I know, my son, i know. i know, my daughter, I know. that thing you wanted is not going to happen. not the way you’ve always dreamed. I know this hurts. I know this stings. I know you feel like I am distant or not aware of where you are and what you think life was supposed to be like. I know in moments like this you doubt that I can count the hairs on your head or have your best in mind. but please, I am not done. I have barely started to reveal your life to you. I am the God who satisfies your desires with good things. . .  and when it comes to your hopes and your fears and your dreams, I know, my son, I know.

there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.  therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. for we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

subject to none, subject to all

a Christian is a perfectly free lord of all, subject to none. a Christian is a perfectly dutiful servant of all, subject to all.

 -martin luther

it is for freedom that Christ has set us free. stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. . .  you, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. but do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.