Finding Explosive Life in a Masterpiece
So you’re looking for a good book, eh?
Here’s one for you — a book packed with action, adventure, romance, intrigue and suspense.
For all that and more, grab your Bible. You’ll be hanging on every word.
Honestly, I used to find the Book boring. That was before the letters leapt off the page and grabbed me by the collar. That was before I found Him in the red letters.
That was before I found out that these Words have life.
that I know
that they do.
These Words have life.
Explosive, Technicolor life.
Let me tell you about it.
God’s Word is a life-changing masterpiece filled with 66 different books, 1,189 chapters and 33,173 verses. Sound a bit overwhelming? Don’t worry. God will lead you through — verse by verse. And these words will penetrate your soul. In Hebrews, we’re told the Word of God is “living and active.” Some book, huh?
Here’s a look at the WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY and HOW of the Word that Lives.
WHO: In Bible study, we’re studying the Lord of Heaven and Earth. This isn’t a dry book about boring historical characters who roamed the Earth 2,000-some years ago. It’s about a Savior who lives today (and a lively cast of characters who make today’s soap operas look dull in comparison).
WHAT: It’s a two-way conversation with God, in which we allow His Spirit to “go deep” and change our hearts.
WHERE: It might be helpful to find a special spot in your house where you can place a “prayer basket” filled with your Bible, notebook, prayer journal, pens, highlighters and bookmarks. Consider making your very own tent and altar, which you can carry with you wherever you go.
WHEN: Study is an ongoing process. If you’re still breathing, you’re still learning! So dig in. Make it a daily practice, and then watch how God carries that time of study through the rest of your day. (But don’t beat yourself up if your day ends without time spent in the Bible. Grace, my friend, grace …)
WHY: We study for many reasons. For one, it pleases the Lord. Also, Scripture points out sin in our lives then motivates us to confess. It renews our relationship with Christ, and it keeps us on the path, even when we feel like straying.
HOW: Invite His Spirit to guide you as you begin your study, and continue in that attitude of prayer. Would you consider making a commitment today to read the Bible daily? Join a Bible study group. Find “study buddies.” Read just one or two verses a day, then find opportunity to meditate of them throughout the day. Ask for God to build a desire in your heart for His Word. Then hold on! You’re in for quite a ride, friend.
***
In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
He was with God in the beginning.
— John 1:1-2
This is part of Ann Voskamp’s “Walk with Him Wednesday” series, where we post about the art of Scripture reading. This week, we are pondering “How the Word Lives”…
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