Here’s a great quote from Thomas Kempis’ Imitation of Christ, “Wherefore if you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, do not consider yourself better, for you do not know how long you can remain in good estate.  All men are frail, but you must admit that none is more frail than yourself.”

Kempis is not saying that we should excuse sin and other’s sinfulness, but rather we should not look down on sinners.  For we ourselves are no better than they.  Apart from Christ we are nothing.  We should love them in spite of their sin and in so doing it is possible they will come to know the love of Christ.  It should be that we would point the finger more at ourselves rather than at others.

I got back last night from my prayer retreat.  I enjoyed my time seeking the Lord without distractions.  It is amazing how focused you can be when there is no interruptions, no phone, no Internet and no kids.  I didn’t even take a book to read.  I took my Bible, my study books and my laptop for Study Software.  I had a great time just praying and studying the Word.  I feel refreshed.

I went to Mardel’s on Monday and picked up a new Bible.  There is a relatively new version that is amazingly accurate to the Hebrew and Greek.  The ESV (English Standard Version)is very readable and I enjoy it for my devotional time.  I would suggest anyone picking up a copy of the ESV Bible.  I bought the single-column reference edition with wide margins.  I have never had a wide margin Bible but I love it.  Plenty of room to jot down notes as you read.

I would suggest people buy a new Bible version for devotional reading every couple of years.  It helps give a fresh perspective on the Word.  You can still  use your “main” Bible for study.