Finding god in all things

The last chapter in Trevor Hudson's dandy book 'Seeking God' uses the above title. It's a great wrap-up for what was an astounding book (to me).

Hudson sees five interwoven threads that characterize the tapestry of the new life Jesus has made available to us:

1. deepening intimacy with God;
2. growing belonging within God's family;
3. gradual transformation into compassionate image bearers;
4. reception of power from beyond ourselves; and
5. an inner assurance that we are held safe in God's love forever.

 I really like how he phrased these. I also look forward to reading through the book again in the hopefully not-too-distant future to refresh my memory of how they come alive.

Chapter 8 then lays out his means of contemplating this love of God, and how to find him in all things.

First, is remembering gifts from God you have received.

Second, notice how God dwells in everything that God has created.

Third, imagine God working creatively on your behalf in everything around you.

Fourth, receive God's love in every good gift you enjoy.

Just a few other tidbits I gleaned from the chapter:

On p. 195 he refers to a correspondence of his with Dallas Willard. Trevor is taking about his lifelong struggles with discontent and disappointment (which I really relate to). Dallas responded with a note that included this challenge at the end:

"What things do you really enjoy? Things that have nothing to do with family, work, or religion. I want you to write me about three sources of pure joy that you know from your own experience..." (And imagine that God actually wants you to enjoy them too).

Hudson then continues this thought on p. 196: (and I love this)

"Being discontent and introspective does not mean that God has done badly by me, or that there is something wrong with me, or that I am inferior in any way. So, over the years, I have been asking for the grace to know more deeply that when God looks at me, God says, 'Trevor, I did good in creating you. Feel my delight in your existence. I continue to breathe life into you. I dwell in you. Know that you make me smile.'"

Oh, man, do I need reminded of that.

Finally, on p. 197 is this simple little exercise:

"One of the best ways to connect our sources of enjoyment with God's presence is to notice the gifts received through the day. Usually the best time to do this is just before going to sleep. Simply, we can ask the Lord to help us to see what we have really enjoyed through the day."

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Yep, I loved this book. It seems I have similarities with Hudson, and his writing really resonates with me. The simple exercises, sensitive way of viewing our relationship with God, all of it... really touched my heart. I'm glad I read it.