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What is your favorite book? Prior to giving my life to Christ, I probably would have said something like the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon – what I would have pegged as a great work of historical fiction. Now, I would unequivocally and resoundingly say, the Bible.
Before my baptism, I had heard the Bible referred to as the “Living Word”, but I had no idea what was meant by that phrase. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart”. The power of God’s word is plainly displayed in Chapter 1 of the Book of Genesis, where God uses His words to bring into being all of creation. There isn’t a big production on each day of creation; God merely speaks everything into being. As I have started delving into Scripture it has become very clear to me that I am immersing myself in the living and active power of God.
When I was younger, I remember loving the Chicken Soup for the Soul books which contain inspirational true stories. I used to read those books when I was feeling down and needed a pick-me-up. God’s word is the only “chicken soup” your soul needs, and the Bible is now my pick-me-up.
Reading the Bible has become an almost indescribable experience for me. It is difficult for me, a mere human, to put into words the multitude of effects God’s word has, particularly when you come to the Lord with humility and a desire to know Him. When I read the Bible, I can feel God’s presence and His presence takes whatever form I need in that moment. If I need a friend, it is like we are sitting at the kitchen table having a chat. If I need a hug, I can feel His warm embrace. When I am stressed or anxious, it gives my soul peace and rest. When I need a rebuke, it is gentle and loving, but firm and resolute. When I need wisdom and understanding, I am a student sitting in His classroom, and when I am joyous, He shares in and expands my joy.
Deuteronomy 8:3 says, “…. man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” and Proverbs 4:20-22 say, “My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh”. God’s word is life giving, life changing and lifesaving. As I study His word, I can feel Him transforming me, bit by bit, into the person He wants me to become. I know His word can do the same for you, but do not take my word for it. If you want to feel the transforming power of God’s word, you need only open the pages of a Bible and receive God’s message with an open and receptive heart.
If you have been encouraged by this message and would like to grow more in your walk with Jesus, we invite you to come visit our website at www.humboldtbiblechurch.ca or come visit us Sunday mornings at 10 o’clock. See you there!