I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad. (Psa 119:96 KJV)
All that we consider on this earth to be wise, beautiful, insightful and charming has a limit, an “end”. But the Word of God is “exceeding broad.”
The church has spent 2,000 years studying, reading and meditating on God’s word and we still have not reached the end. The well is deep, the beauty is inexhaustible.
But in our day we have thousands of books, blogs, video series and celebrities and I fear that we spend more time reading about the Bible than we do reading the Bible.
Study it, absorb it, approach it with humility and fear, treat it as that which is able to save your soul.
Sure, read books from those greats who have gone before; but never let them take the place of the actual Word of God.
Read it. Read it again. Know it. What’s the argument? Who are the characters? What’s the theme? What points are being made? What’s the progression of thought? What does the author wish us to know about God? About ourselves?
14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2Ti 3:14-17 KJV)
Do we believe this? Then put down the latest celebrity preacher, latest survey and latest commentary and open God’s word. Read with intention. Submit to the One who is able to save your soul.
Amen, Pastor Powell. Wonderful exhortation. Thank you.