Top o’ the Mornin’ to Ya!
TLDR: I share insights on how changing our perspective when reading scripture (specifically Jeremiah) can deepen our spiritual growth. By identifying with characters in the Bible rather than viewing as an outsider, we gain more powerful lessons. This same principle applies in mastermind and coaching settings – when we look for similarities rather than differences, we extract maximum value from every learning opportunity.
What?
I started reading Jeremiah last week, the “weeping prophet.” In the past, I haven’t enjoyed reading it much, but I’m realizing that was because of my position or paradigm. I was looking at Jeremiah as an external bystander rather than identifying with the characters. In Jeremiah, God and the prophet are in dialogue about how Jerusalem and the Israelites aren’t listening to God’s word.
Instead of viewing myself as separate from this story, I’m now asking where I might be like Jerusalem or the Jews & Israelites in the narrative. This shift in perspective has made scripture more powerful and convicting – showing me the times I miss my scripture reading or don’t listen to God.
Why?
In group coaching and mastermind settings, we try not to gloss over how we don’t identify with someone being coached. That’s unnatural. It’s natural to come up with how they are different. We have to fight this instinct. In this unnatural way, we highlight areas where we connect and identify, trying to own the experience of the person in the “deep seat” or “hot seat.” As my coach Shiraz sarcastically says, “and none of you can relate to this or have any benefit from listening to this.”
As Jay Fisset, another mentor, says, “We are spiritual beings on a common human experience.” When we approach group coaching looking for how we can benefit and grow, we extract maximum value.
Lesson
When we shift from being external observers to active participants, whether in reading scripture or participating in group learning, we experience deeper transformation. This conviction isn’t negative – it’s motivating. It stimulates growth and sanctification through studying God’s word and seeking community with other men.
The nature of mastermind is that spiritual connection – “Where two or more are gathered in His name, God is there with them.” I can feel and sense this spiritual connection in mastermind groups, coaching calls, and community settings.
Apply
Take a moment to write down some areas where you’ve blocked yourself from learning because you thought, “I’m not like that” or “I can’t relate to that.” Where could you have opened up and taken more away from a situation? Think about specific courses, groups, trainings, or even conversations where you might have achieved more value by looking for similarities rather than differences.
Remember – if you just listen to this and think “that’s nice,” nothing will happen. You have to implement and act on it in life. As Tony Robbins says, “When would now be a good time?” Actually write this down in the comments or in your journal.
You be blessed.
Finding God in Every Lesson: The Jeremiah Perspective
