for i did not receive it from any man, nor was i taught it, but i received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ [galatians 1:12]
johann bengel differentiates how the word was revealed to paul by saying:
taught = acquired by the labor of learning
received = accomplished without labor (by revelation)
what a great reminder that faith is not something that we can simply learn. faith pierces the heart in a way that logic was never meant to. God did not turn paul’s life around through a lesson plan, but through personal connection. that is what paul is trying to convey to the church in galatia- less procedures, more presence.
may these verses help you draw nearer to God’s presence:
psalms 73:28- but for me it is good to be near God; i have made the Lord God my refuge, that i may tell of all your works
james 4:10- humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you
psalm 16:11 you make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore
jeremiah 33:3- call to me and i will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known
james 4:8- draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded
john 15:5- i am the vine; you are the branches. if you remain in me and i in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing
~ angela younger