controlling the text for our own ends—gathering information, interpreting or applying the information, proving our point about something, gaining a ministry tool or solving a problem. When we are in an information-gathering mindset, we are analytical in our approach and at times even critical and judgmental. We are reading through cognitive filters, made up of our preconceived thoughts, feelings, biases, doctrinal systems, teachings and life experiences that have shaped us. When we are in this mode, it is exceedingly difficult for us to hear anything new because we have so many unconscious
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