Why Read the Bible?

I used to think I should read the Bible because that would make God happy. Like God was a moody teacher: “Do what he wants or he’ll make your life miserable.” But, as I grew in my faith, I started wanting to read my Bible, loving to study it. It is full of Truth. It is full of hope. It is full of God’s instructions for how I should live.

The Bible allows me to know God – his heart, his passion, his holiness, his power. The Bible shows me who I am and helps me see who I can be.

Yes, it can be confusing. Yes, it can be difficult. Yes, it is controversial. So what? Study it anyway. Read it for yourself. Don’t let other people tell you what it says. Check what they say to make sure it’s true.

James gives us great advice: “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5). I have found this verse to be true over and over again. I have asked God to help me understand what his word says, and he has answered those prayers time and time again.

So in this age of words, words everywhere, don’t neglect THE Word.

“The grass withers, the flower fades, But  the word of our God stands forever.” Is. 40:8