When I read the opening statement: “Naming Jesus as Lord is the start of a theological commitment. Living as though He is Lord demands day-by-day forgiving, rescuing, and transforming grace,” I thought for sure I knew where Tripp was going. “He’s going to talk about living a life that lives out my personal theology.” But he surprised me. Oh, that’s an appendage in this devotion but I don’t see it as the crux of this devotion.

What I see in His challenge to not allow myself to be a “theology nerd.” So book-minded, so knowledge-minded that I’m no practical good. My reason for studying theology (the study of God) i.e. the Bible, is not to become a theo-geek (as he calls it), but to be transformed in my inner man. Paul talks about that in Romans 12:2- “Be not conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of my mind.” If all my study; if all my Bible reading; if all my reading and journaling of NMM; if all my extra morning reading is not transforming me then it is a waste. If I’m not becoming more holy; if I’m not conforming more to His holiness, then why do this?

I will never be mistaken for a theologian or an academic prodigy. N.E.V.E.R. But will people see Jesus in me? If not, pity me. I missed it.

“Father, transformation is your goal. Not smarter. not a better academic. Not a talking Bible. A person who follows You. Who walk His talk. help me to be that person.”