Ancient Words For Today - 66
It is critically important for us to learn, understand and follow The Word of God. In the Bible we are told that: 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 perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2Timothy 3:16-17 God's Word was given to us so that we might know the truth, know Him, understand His thoughts on the many issues and questions that we face in life, and how we can relate to Him through His Son Jesus Christ. His Word is the final supreme authority on every issue. We should therefore believe what God has said and follow His instructions for living.
The psalmist wrote: Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.
Jesus told his disciples: Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. John 15:3 It is amazing how, that by reading the Word of God consistently and meditating upon it, our worldly thoughts are cleansed and replaced with wholesome and edifying thoughts. In the book of Romans, Paul instructs believers to change their way of thinking and to renew their minds: And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2 As we read the Word of God, we plant in our minds the truth and God's sound principles for living. These Godly principles become the guiding basis for the very things we later say and do. So God's Word modifies our thoughts, words, and ultimately our actions to be in conformance with His will.
I have read some excellent Bible commentaries that highlight and clarify certain passages in scripture. Mostly though, I have been focusing on reading the Bible and asking the Holy Spirit to teach me. He provides the best, freshest and most directly applicable commentary for understanding and fitting the Word of the Lord into my life!! I have hundreds of commentary books about the Bible which are all good in their place. But I feel the most important book to focus our thinking on what the Lord has written for us is the Bible. As we read it, we need to ask Him to speak to our hearts and then meditate on what he tells us and do it. God's Word then becomes the director of our thoughts and life and helps us to discern and to do God's will.
Remember - 7 days without the Word of God makes one weak. So, read the Bible daily and be ye strong in the Lord!!!!