The man of God went to the people and declared, “Behold a man went camping in the mountains, but upon arriving at his picturesque campsite, he realized he had forgotten his tent and sleeping bag. Then, lo, he took a trip into the mountains on another day, for the powder was just right for skiing, but alas he had forgotten his skis. This same man, upon hearing the surf was up, hurried off to the beach to catch a wave, but when he arrived he found that the surfboard was still at home. And again, on a sunny afternoon, he went off to play a round of golf, only to arrive and remember his golf clubs were still in the garage.”
Then all the people responded, “How foolish for this man to have gone to all those activities unprepared with the very things vital to that for which he had gone!”
And the man of God looked at the people and asked, “And why is it that you call it Bible study and Bible camp when you do not take your Bibles with you to open, to read, and to study, making certain what is being taught is in accordance with God’s Word? Why do you not yourselves go prepared for that for which you have gone?”
And the people had no response for they knew the man of God was right. Verily, how much more important than the equipment for camping, skiing, surfing, or golf, is the Bible in hand for the study of what matters for eternity!
Perhaps we might sometimes think we can always borrow a Bible or there will be one in the pew or the classroom. However, there is no substitute for a Bible of our own to be marked and taken notes in and to become familiar with where things are on each page. Like a warrior with a sword, we need to become well trained with the “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17 ESV)
Remember. . .
“(16) All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
Don’t forget about the most important equipment relating to the activities of life now and for eternity. God’s Word has value for all things. Therefore may we remain familiarized with it through daily use at home, and then — when we come together — let us not leave home without it!
Have a great day KEEPING PREPARED WITH GOD’S WORD!
Carl
