READ AND HEED!
I recently saw an old “Peanuts” cartoon in which Peppermint Patty is talking to a classmate in front of her as she looks at a finished assignment. Her words: “Now, that’s what I call a book report. . . . This time I really outdid myself. I’ve got the author’s name, a brief description of the plot and everything. . . . I even read the book!”
Over the years I have encountered a number of people who though they talked about the Bible had not actually read much of it. They knew it was referred to as God’s Word and could briefly describe the gist of its content, though perhaps much of that was knowledge gained from what they had heard rather than from what they had actually read. Though the Scriptures do inform us about God and His Will and workings on behalf of humanity, beyond information His Divine Wisdom is intended for our life transformation. In order for that to take place we must “read the book”; internalizing and then implementing it!
James exhorted. . .
“(19) Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; (20) for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (21) Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” (James 1:19-21ESV)
Far beyond what other writings are able to do, James connected the ability of God’s Word with the soul’s salvation. Are we continuing to read and receive God’s Word with meekness? Are we allowing it to take root in our life and so produce its intended fruit? The Scriptures are not only intended to be a part of our talk (though sharing it is very important), but to be the basis of our life walk! May the “word of life” (Philippians 2:16; 1 John 1:1) remain the abiding influence of our life leading onto the eternal life our Lord came to provide!
Have a great day LIVING REVEALING WE HAVE READ THE BOOK!
Carl
