Thursday, October 3, 2024
I started reading Scripture more purposefully around 2000, when my father died. My reading began to shape and transform my thoughts, words, and actions. In John 14, I discovered there are many rooms in my Father’s house. Reading the Bible comforted me, reminding me that I will see my earthly dad again one day, making it personal to my life. I found out the Word of God is alive and has the ability to shape my beliefs and behavior.
The more I read, the more I can see the Bible is a love letter written to me. It’s personal and life-giving. It’s meant to be interactive!
2 Timothy 3:16-17
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
God’s Word has inspired me often. I’ve filled up dozens of notebooks with thoughts on Scripture I read. God often speaks to me through my writing. I also journal prayers, and later go back and reminisce on how they were answered.
Although the world will try to shake our faith about God, Scripture is the foundation story for how Jesus has overcome the world. The truth of all truths can be found in the Scriptures. When we read the Bible and find ways to implement God’s Word into our daily lives, it will transform us!
Romans 12:2
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
If you’re ready to take the most amazing journey of your life, grab a Bible! You can lay down your stress and anxiety. God has overcome the world and we can all live at peace in the midst of our storms.
Questions:
Do you read Scripture on a regular basis? Do you journal your thoughts? Have you noticed a change?
Next Steps:
Start reading the Bible and journaling your response to what you read. Join a Group or find a mentor to help you in the practice.
If you have been reading the Bible for a while, find someone to encourage as they read through it for the first time.
Prayer:
Father, I am so grateful for your Word and all of its promises. There is nothing that comes close or compares. Help me to be bold in sharing your Word with others. I cannot add anything to it, or take anything from it, nor do I need to. Your Word is perfect and demonstrates your love for all of humankind. I praise you and thank you, Lord God, for my Bible. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 3:16-17
16 I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. 17 Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.
This post was written by Julie Estep, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.