In today’s episode of the Coffee and Bible Time podcast, we delve into a profoundly enriching conversation with Mary Wiley, author of “Our Highest Good: 90 Days of Knowing and Loving God.”
This episode is a deep dive into how theology can transform our daily lives, bring us true rest, and guide us through suffering. Mary Wiley offers invaluable insights from her own journey, emphasizing the importance of engaging with theology not as an academic exercise, but as a deeply relational practice.
The episode begins with a discussion on finding true rest through theology. Mary Wiley, a mother, author, Bible teacher, and PhD student, shares her personal experience of managing multiple roles while seeking genuine rest.
She explains that true rest is not about inactivity but redirecting our focus toward God. By engaging with scripture and prayer, we can find peace and transform our worship and daily responsibilities. Mary emphasizes that understanding God through His Word is crucial for experiencing genuine peace and rest.
The conversation moves on to redefine theology as a relationship rather than an academic pursuit. Mary reflects on her journey from seeking answers in systematic theology to understanding the essence of knowing and loving God.
She draws wisdom from early thinkers like Igris, who believed that a theologian is one who prays. This perspective encourages us to approach theology as an ongoing conversation with God, transforming it from a mere study to a heartfelt relationship. Practical tips are shared for incorporating theology into everyday life, such as rehearsing God’s truths daily and recognizing His presence in every moment.
The next segment explores how to make decisions grounded in the truth of God, challenging the often individualistic culture by embracing community in Christ’s body.
Mary discusses the importance of seeing God as our highest good and making choices based on our desire for Him. She highlights the value of engaging with God’s Word, seeking wise counsel, and developing a love for His truth through prayer and fellowship.
This approach helps us find joy in God’s presence rather than in our circumstances, fostering a perspective that treasures God above all else.
One of the most enlightening parts of the episode is the discussion on the role of the Holy Spirit. Mary explains how the Spirit, sent by the Father and Son, resides within us, making the triune God consistently present.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to understand God’s Word, recognize our sin, and act according to His will. The conversation touches on the concept of beauty in theology, referencing Hans Urs von Balthasar’s views on beauty as the foundation of all theology. This contrasts societal views of beauty with the deeper, often slower beauty found in the story of Christ’s suffering and redemption.
The episode also tackles the challenging topic of suffering. Mary Wiley shares personal experiences, including the loss of a loved one, to illustrate how faith can guide us through life’s hardest seasons.
She emphasizes that suffering is a part of the human experience, not necessarily a punishment from God, but a result of the world’s brokenness. Reflecting on biblical examples like Job, Mary underscores that God grieves with us and is present in our pain. This perspective offers hope and encourages us to find comfort in God’s constant presence and support during difficult times.
Throughout the episode, Mary Wiley shares the importance of forming rhythms of rest through engaging in theology daily, urging listeners to let go of the to-do list and spend time in the presence of God. This approach brings true peace, hope, and rest, transforming our lives from the inside out.
In summary, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God through theology.
Mary Wiley’s insights remind us that theology is not just an academic pursuit but a relational journey that transforms our hearts and minds. By engaging with God’s Word and seeking His presence daily, we can find true rest, make decisions grounded in His truth, and navigate life’s challenges with faith and hope.
Mary’s Favorites & Recommended Resources!
- Devotional – Our Highest Good
- Go-To Bible – CSB Journaling Bible
- Favorite App – Everand: eBooks & Audiobooks
Discover a transformative journey with our prayer journal, crafted to deepen your connection with Jesus and unveil the wondrous potency of prayer. Immerse yourself in its pages, whether through the fluid strokes of a pencil, the permanence of pen, the vibrancy of markers, or the artistic flair of paint and colors. Let your creativity flow!
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