[pinit]Have you ever wished there was a Manual for everyday life?
Like really… a book, that if followed precisely, would guarantee success in your life, fulfillment in your relationships and health to your body? Now that really would be the greatest book ever written!
And, then wouldn’t it be awesome if the author of the book was available on standby anytime you had questions or needed some clarification?
If I guess right, you’re probably thinking that this is too good to be true. Or, there may be some of you who know exactly what I’m talking about. And, you know it is true. This manual does exist. And, it’s available to everyone. This really is the greatest book ever written.
What am I talking about?
The Bible.
Yep… and before you click on another blog, read on. And, if you still doubt, after reading.. try to prove me wrong. 😉
In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, it says.. “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” (NASB)
Now, let’s think about this for a moment. The Creator of the Universe… who knows exactly how this world operates…who knows exactly how our bodies function… who knows our every need… and who knows the end from the beginning…has provided us a book that will teach us and train us, so that we are fully equipped to live successfully?
Golly, wouldn’t it make sense to read and reread and reread this book? Study it like our lives depended on it?
[Because they do.]
Some of you may say, “Well I’ve tried to read the Bible before and it doesn’t make any sense to me”. I understand. And, thankfully so does God. That’s why He provided the Holy Spirit. Ever heard of Him? According to John 14:26, God sent the Holy Spirit, aka Counselor, who will teach us all things. Remember I said the author is there to clarify things? It’s true.
In James 1:5, God says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
Simple. Ask.. then listen.
I find that oftentimes, (myself included) we may ask for something.. and then go about our business and forget to actually listen for the answer! Sheesh.. God must shake His head sometimes. That’s probably why in John 5:6, Jesus asked the invalid who was seeking healing, if he really “wanted” to get well. It is so commonplace for people to ask for something, but then never do anything to prove their desire.
For example.. some people may say they want to “get in shape”, but then they won’t prioritize doing any form of exercise. Their desire is more of just a fleeting wish.
If we really want to understand the Bible and really want to understand how it applies to us and our everyday life… we need to follow the wisdom of Matthew 7:7.. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”
God has provided wisdom for everyday living, in the form of His written Word. (AKA The Bible (Greatest Book Ever Written ;)) And, with the help of His Holy Spirit, He is ready, willing and available to answer all of our questions.
If you are new to reading the Bible, or maybe you just haven’t picked it up in awhile… I encourage you to start with Proverbs. There are 31 chapters. Read a chapter a day. And, repeat the next month. This book contains wisdom from Solomon, the wealthiest man who ever lived.
Perhaps you grew up attending a church that taught the Bible was just a bunch of rules and regulations. I encourage you to study the promises of God. Take a look at Deuteronomy 28, which says “You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country… The Lord will bless the work of your hands… You will always be at the top and never the bottom.”
Or maybe hop on over to Psalm 112 1-3, which says.. “Blessed is the man who fears (honors and respects) the Lord, who finds great delight in his commands. His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.”
While you’re at it, check out Jeremiah, 29:11, which says “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”
Still feeling frisky? Flip a few chapters to the right and read Romans 8:28. “And, we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
That last verse has been my favorite for years. I can’t even begin to tell you how many situations in life, Romans 8:28 has brought peace to. To know that no matter what you are going through, God will work it all out for your good. Wow. What a breath of fresh air!
God’s promises are endless. And, they are meant for YOU. Take me up on the challenge. Dust off your Bible, open it up and ask God to speak to you. Ask for wisdom in your situation. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And, you will see… The Bible really is… The Greatest Book Ever Written.
**This post is linked to Quick Lit at Modern Mrs. Darcy, Faith Filled Friday, The Alder Collective and Tips and Tricks. 🙂
Jen Schneider says
What a great message! God Bless!
Ciara says
Thanks Jen! I just visited your site.. looove the Learning Wagon! 🙂 What a fun idea!
Cristi says
Awesome message! Thanks so much for linking up with The Alder Collective. Hope to see you again next week! Have an awesome night!
Cristi recently posted…The Alder Collective Link Up #4
Ciara says
Thanks!! 🙂 See you soon!