Looking for Some Information
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden
And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. —1 Thessalonians 2:13
Before the birth of our first child, my husband and I did what many first-time parents do and read books about pregnancy, books about babies, books about parents, books about…you get the picture. We read contrasting opinions, latest trends, and medical opinions, and asked a lot of questions to anyone who already had a child.
The amount of information given in these books is staggering. One of my favorite books has an index in the back so I can look up specific words based on my needs and be directed to the answer. How great! I wish life was like this…
Maybe it is. As Christians, we have been given the ultimate reference book. We have been given the gift of the Bible, the Word of God. The Bible is a living and active work. Not just a book for yesterday with some good moral lessons in it, but a book that is relevant today. These are writings that are considered living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. The Word of God will penetrate the soul and work in and through you when you accept and believe. It is powerful and beneficial and will guide you to the truth.
So why is it so hard to read the Bible at times? Sometimes I feel like I have read it already or that I can get some more relevant advice from a friend or a book that references the Bible. I don’t know why I fall into those lies. There is no greater information, no greater book, no greater life-changing word than the Bible, and what a privilege I have that I own one and read it whenever I want. (What is so helpful is that many of the Bibles these days have thorough concordances, just like my baby book, making it easy to look up topics that are pertinent for us that day.)
While it is beneficial to talk with friends, seek out wisdom from pastors, and read other books, we must always remember that there is one ultimate source of truth that God has given us: The Bible. So don’t let it collect dust on your bookshelf. Allow it into your life to work in and through you, who believes.
GOING DEEPER:
1. What sources do you look to for wisdom and guidance?
2. How can you make sure that your ultimate decision is not simply based on tradition, but on the Word of God?
FURTHER READING:
Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 15:1-9; Acts 12:20-25; Hebrews 4:12
For more information and resources please visit HomeWord.com.
