All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16
Our Bible is a compilation of 66 different books, written by
a human authors who were inspired by God.
The Greek meaning of the word “inspiration” in the above verse is “God-breathed”. It has been the conviction of Christ
followers from many different denominations and persuasions over the centuries
that the Bible is a literal representation of the thoughts of Almighty God.
If we believe this, then we must take the reading and
studying of the Bible seriously. It is
life and food to our souls. It sheds
light and direction upon our path. It
steers us along the righteous path. It
corrects us, teaches us, comforts us, heals us, builds our faith, inspires us,
motivates us, and fills us with the Spirit of God. If we believe the Bible is God’s word, then
we will listen to godly ministers as they preach and teach from the
Scriptures.
We are to approach God’s word with a sense of awe and wonder
and with an attitude of respect. As we
apply God’s word to our daily walk, we will grow. We will become more and more like our
Maker. If you have not developed a habit
of reading the word daily, may I suggest that you begin with 10-15 minutes a day
reading the Bible?
Find a translation you are comfortable with. I like the New International Version and the
New King James Version but there are many good translations out there. I would suggest that you not pick a paraphrase
version like The Message or The Living Bible to study. These are great as a second Bible to receive
inspiration from, but they are not word-for-word translations of the text.
Approach the word of God prayerfully. Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and to
reveal to you precious truths from the scriptures. Don’t rush through your time in the
Bible. Pause and digest what you are
reading. Look for one takeaway from your
study. Ask the Lord to help you put into
practice a specific commandment that you find in the pages of God’s word. Look for a promise to believe and claim. Above all, enjoy your time with God and in
His presence as you meditate and study the scriptures.
God’s word is powerful.
Hebrews 4:12 says: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it
penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the
thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
God’s word is a mirror where we see the reflection of who we are in
Him. The word also exposes our hidden
sins and wrong attitudes. God’s word has
the power to cleanse us and make us pure.
The Bible is a great gift to mankind. It is filled with the breath of God. Let’s making reading and studying it a high
priority in our lives. If we do, we will reap great rewards.
