A new year began not too long ago. A time for many to set goals for the next 365 days. I know there are those of who have set the goal of reading the entire Bible by the end of the year. I think the oldest, most translated book in the world is worth the read. There’s good stuff inside: The origin of our world and humankind; a set of perfect laws; people whom we can relate to and learn from; and hope of what is to come. But why are we reading and what do we intend to do after?
I will be honest by saying that I have never finished reading the entire B-I-B-L-E. Chapters themselves and books within this ancient text are lengthy, and other activities have grabbed my attention. It happens. When I don’t open the Bible I find myself slipping away from Christ in some way. When I do crack it open I feel a little more reassured about facing anything, and I am inspired to be better than I was the day before.
After we turn the pages and scan then words, are truly loving towards others, even our enemies? What are we thinking; saying; hearing; viewing? Are we mindful of what we put in our bodies/what we do to our bodies? Do we treat our bodies like a temple? Are we observing all the commandments, or just the ones what we are comfortable with and not inconveniencing us? I ask myself these questions, and let me tell you something- I got work to do.
We can read the Bible from start to finish all we want. We can set ourselves on a reading schedule. We can memorize scripture word for word and quiz ourselves. We can quote the scripture every time we are facing a debater. But unless your desire going in is to open your heart to change; to apply all the good wisdom and instructions to your life, then how is it any different than a book assigned to you as a student? You’re expected to read it, but what are you going to do with that knowledge after?
Reading the Word is wonderful. Living the word- that’s more impressive. May we all live by it.
DavidSpeaks 