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.
And they do.
I know
that I know
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”…
Fabulous post.
"These Words have life"…Amen to that!!!The same "breath" that inspired the writers was the same "Air" we breathe.
Thank you for this wonderful reminder of the Best Self-help book I could ever have to help me in this life's journey. Love and blessings to you sister Jennifer!
Beautiful words. I spent a little time in this wonderful book today, but I think I should put down my computer and pick up the book that is calling my name. Thank you so much Jennifer!
Good Morning Jennifer…
Taking a gardening break…
So glad I stopped by. What a nicely done post!
I love this:
"Study is an ongoing process. If you’re still breathing, you’re still learning! So dig in."
Always more to learn each day~
all the best!
Maria
Awesome post. I just love the title of your blog. It's time we all get back to "getting down with Jesus".
The blessed Word of Life. His Word. The ONLY Word.
Oh Jennifer, What a delight that your are! This review would want to make anyone check out the Word of God. You made it sound like life could not go on without reading it!
Loved it!
Christy
Thank you for stopping by, all. God's Word is Life. Can I get an Amen? 😉
Christy Rose, Reading your comment made me ask myself this question: Is my life a reflection of this desire to grow in God's Truth — not only my words here on this blog? In other words, am I a set of "Living Letters," where others can see God's Truth reflected in me, in my everyday life? Would people want to dig into God's Word because they saw a piece of it reflected in what I do — not just what I say or write?
These are questions I ask myself daily. I want to do more than talk the talk. I want to WALK the talk. Keeping grounded in the Word is one way … And staying connected with sisters and brothers like you is another …
RCUBEs — Love what you say about the Air we breathe. Mmmm. Nice.
Great reminder of the who, what, when, where,why of the Bible.
Ah, I love this. As a girl with a journalistic past, the Who, What, When, Where, Why & How's all speak to me. But I just realized that the most important and top 3 rules of journalism (as taught to me), "get the facts, get the facts, and get the facts" is an easy task with the Bible. After all, this Book is the Truth!
Once again you have set my heart ablaze! I've only been reading the bible for 4 months now, but I can't imagine life without it.
Your post was inspirational and beautiful 🙂
After She Speaks, this is a journey that I'm about to begin! This post was wonderful and the timing simply perfect! But, then again, God's timing is always perfect! THank you, sweet friend!
Hugs!
Susan
AMEN! This makes me want to dance!
And now I think I'll listen to "The Word Is Alive" by Casting Crowns…
Right there with ya Monica when you say, ""The Word Is Alive" by Casting Crowns…"
Great post Jennifer. Spot on.
Jennifer. Jenn.i.fer. Explosive post about this explosive life we find in this explosive Book.
I still remember exactly where I was when this Book first did this to me. Dorm room. Head on desk. Heart pounding, shoulders shaking.
Word living.
It hasn't let go yet. And you're right, hang on for that ride. (You know I'm in the middle of one of those great soap-opera quality reads right now, and a verse or two a day is about all my feeble frame can hold onto.)
Thanks for the encouragement to put on crash helmets and get into it.
Very nice- I like this a lot! So true, once the Holy Spirit is guiding us and leading us into all truth, it makes a world of difference.
"It renews our relationship with Christ"…such a grace reason to read this living word…to know Him and be known by Him. Lovely!
Honey, this is a great marketing promo! I just love the sell!
I'm buying.
I love stopping by. YOu have a gift, a gift that is powerful in the hands of our living God. His Words truly come alive with freshness. The best part, God speaks to me through Deut. Numbers, it all! I can't get enough.
Thanks for drenching me today in the goodness of His Word.
Sarah Dawn
Jennifer,
The words you bang down on a keyboard… they make my heart race!
I want more of those Technicolor Words!
You serve Him well, Jennifer… so well.
Hungering,
Ann
Yes, His words have life.
Give life.
Are life.
I love your passion for His word.
Sweet dreams.
These words have life. Indeed they do. Sweet, refreshing, empowering life. Love you!