Faithful on Fridays Blog

Word of God, Speak

Part One

If I were a betting woman, which I’m not, I’d bet that some of you share similar childhood experiences regarding church. I attended services every Sunday simply because that’s what we did. My mother insisted even when I didn’t want to go; there was no choice. The Word of God speaks to that in 2 Tim. 3:14-17. I’ve summarized those verses by giving you six things that happen when you read God’s Word:

• First of all, God’s Word gives you the wisdom and faith you need to respond to the gospel and be saved. You begin a new life in Christ as you are reborn in the Spirit and trust in Jesus to be your Lord.

• Secondly, these verses say that Scripture is inspired by God. Those who wrote the Bible were given His words to pen by the Holy Spirit and that’s the reason Scripture speaks to each of us individually and personally. Every time we open His Word those promises are there: wisdom, hope, knowledge, deliverance, healing, or any need you may have.

• Thirdly, the Word of God teaches us what’s true. Sometimes we believe lies about ourselves and others, however, His Word helps you distinguish between the truth and those lies.

• Fourthly, the Scriptures help us realize what’s wrong in our life. I don’t know about you but when things begin to go wrong I wonder why. What am I doing wrong? As I ask that question and then open the Bible, He’s faithful to show me. Now, it’s not always something I’m doing wrong, but anything that is wrong in my life is exposed so I can deal with it.

• Fifthly, God’s Word will correct and teach us how to turn things around and do life right. I said that I ask God, “What am I doing wrong?” I pray that way because it’s often me, not someone else. As I search the Scriptures God corrects me, as a good father corrects his child, and shows me how to change. Does it hurt? Sometimes, but usually just my pride.

• Lastly, the Word of God prepares and equips us for the good works God has planned for our lives. Without His direction we live without purpose, but with His help we are given all we need. It may be financial or emotional help for others, possibly in creativity or intelligence, but whatever it is, we use it to benefit others. 

The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and walk along beside the carriage.” Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” Acts 8:29-31a 

My mother was right, we need to consistently be instructed in God’s Word. There’s no substitute, no other way to live victoriously in the Kingdom of God, so join others believers in a small group of any kind; you won’t be disappointed in the results.