The Bible

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4:12

This morning I heard Robert Chapman quoted on the radio. I pray this quote blesses your day as it did mine.

"This book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts binding, its histories are true and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's character. Here paradise is restored, heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, test the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth a paradise of glory and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, it will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor and condemns all who will trifle with its sacred contents."

Wow! So much can be said about the words our heavenly Father has given to us in the Bible. His word reminds us of what he wants for us and what he expects from us, offering us the blessings and warnings of a father. God’s word holds us accountable when no one else will, bringing on great conviction when conviction is required. It is not afraid to judge or be judged, nor does it walk on eggshells hoping to please. His word is precise, knowing the ways of our hearts. Its truths are unshakeable, bringing wisdom to those that keep its commandments and take heed to its warnings. It offers us shelter in the storms we encounter and holds us up when we fall from exhaustion and discouragement. God’s word offers undeniable affirmation when we seek answers humbly and hope even when we feel all hope is gone. It ministers to us, so that we may minister to others in need. It transforms the hearts of those who study its words, it strengthens our faith and wrestles with our restless hearts. God’s word can do all of this because it is ALIVE! Amen!

God has birthed within me a love for His Holy Word and a great desire to study it. I want to do more than read it, I want with my whole heart to understand it. In doing a little Bible study, I found some scripture that may help you understand what reading the word of God can do for you. I found the following references to these quotes in a book called Willmington’s Guide to the Bible. (pg. 800)

“Lord, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! Do not let my hope be crushed.”

Psalm 119:116

“Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil.”

Psalm 119:133

“I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure.”

Psalm 119:162

“I weep with sorrow; encourage me by your word.”

Psalm 119:28

“May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word.”

Psalm 119:74

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”

Psalm 119:105

“O Lord, listen to my cry; give me the discerning mind you promised.”

Psalm 119:169

“It is the same with my word. I send it out and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.”

Isaiah 55:11

“And I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself.”

Acts 20:32

“But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!”

John 15:7

“For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.”

1 Peter 1:23

“You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.”

John 15:3

“Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.”

John 17:17

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”

2 Timothy 3:16

“Jesus said to the people who believed in him, You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.”

John 8:31

“Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.”

Psalm 119:50