The Word Of God

"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." -  2 Timothy 3:16-17

The Bible is important to read. I just looked around our little study and could see 14 Bibles. That doesn't include the ones on our phones - 16. And the many we have access through our computer. - About 50 translations through the Bible Gateway website. I suppose that makes us Bible poor. But they are of no value if they are not read. Paul makes it clear that scripture is God breathed (inspired) and has clear value for His children. I say His children because the Bible makes no sense to the "natural man" - people who are not born again by the Spirit through faith. 

"But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." - 1 Corinthians 2:14

It is important to hear the Word. But what about those who cannot read or who do not have access to the written Word? I have come across many people like that in our travels. Typically salvation does not come by giving someone something to read - but by hearing the Gospel. 

"So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." - Romans 10:17

Pastor Marc Cloveus in Jacmel, Haiti has a passion for starting churches in the rural mountains in Haiti. He trains and then sends teams to mountain villages to share the Gospel. For those who are saved, he sends two men to establish a local church and to teach and preach to the new converts and others in the village.  A local church is intentional about doing the same thing - sharing the gospel, training the converts and sending them out to share the gospel.  

"How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You." - Psalm 119:9-11

The Word is important to remember.  The Word is referred to as the Sword of the Spirit in Ephesians chapter 6. Whether we read it or hear it, we must "hide it in our hearts" - hold fast to it as we face the trials, tribulations and temptations of living in the a world that is headed for hell. Some preacher once said, "Sin keeps you from the Bible and the Bible keeps you from sin". But it is not like you can hold a book up in front of the Devil like you would hold a cross up in front of a vampire.  How do we hide the Word so that it will help us in times of spiritual trouble or opportunities to witness to someone?

"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” - Joshua 1:8-9

It is important to think about the Word. Not just on Sunday or during your quiet time. It can't be like taking a vitamin in the morning and then pressing on with your day. Of course you have a natural life to live - but that life is to be lived in the context of who you are in Christ and not simply who you are in your day to day existence. The latter must be lived out in the context of the former. Christian first.  Don't understand prosperity and success in the sense that the world does.  I can tell you about many people who have achieved prosperity and success in this life who are empty inside. 

The Word of God is essential to maintaining your spiritual health. I can always tell when someone embraces the Word - scripture is intertwined in their conversation and reflected in the way they live and relate to others. 

"Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." James 1:21-22

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone