God’s Word

Psalm 19:7-8. “The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.”

I wanted to start off the new year with an encouragement to read the Bible regularly. I know that for most of us this is not an easy thing. It sounds like a task or a rule, and we don’t always fully understand what we read, etc.

The verse above gives us four benefits of reading and obeying scripture. These motivate me, and hopefully they will motivate you.

First, our soul will be revived. Our soul is that eternal part of us. The psalmist knew that our soul would tend to tire and wither, carrying burdens and facing challenges. God’s word re-energizes my soul. I need that.

Second, we will gain wisdom. Wisdom is knowledge informed by experience. Godly wisdom is further informed by God. I have made some bad decisions in my life, and I’m sure I will make more in the future. I want God’s wisdom so I can make better decisions.

Third, we will experience joy. Joy is that abiding gladness of the heart that comes from a right perspective of life. Most of the time I get this, but sometimes I’m weighed down by the troubles of life. I want my life to be joyful, not just for my benefit but so that I can encourage others.

Finally, we will see more clearly. Sometimes I feel like I am stumbling around in the dark, not seeing things nor understanding what’s going on around me. This is not a good feeling! I want to be able to see more clearly, because I will avoid pitfalls and gain a better perspective of the world around me.

There are many ways to read through the Bible and many resources to help you (here’s one: http://www.ewordtoday.com/year/). Make a decision to read regularly and see how God works!