Have we wondered at the child who has the same story read to them to which they would continue to say, “Read it again!”? They have grown to love the story so much they never tire of hearing it. Even though they may even join in to recite sections being read, they remain captivated by the story.
Are there passages of Scripture which never cease to strike us in a similar way. As I was recently doing my morning Bible reading, my Old Testament text was the book of Esther. Though I have read it so many times before, I was struck by a sense of eagerness to read it again. I realized how much I have not tired of hearing it. Though I know the story well, I experienced great joy and satisfaction reading it again. However, I read it understanding it is not merely a story, but history revealing trust in the faithfulness of God and the courage to step out in faith even in view of unknowns. It is also the telling story of worldly character of individuals like Haman who get so caught up in themselves they will plot violence against others. And so, not only the account of Esther, Ruth, Job, etc., I truly am continually drawn to the Scriptures to read and read again!
Every time we read anywhere in the Scriptures, there is something to be learned. Even in familiar passages there are lessons or points of encouragement we may have missed before. The depth of what can be drawn from the Scriptures should remind us of the Divine source behind every page. (i.e. 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21) And it is in continually going back through the Scriptures we find a safeguard in remaining aware of their truth in comparison to other things we might hear in this life. To regularly read is a personally beneficial and noble practice in which to engage.
As Luke recorded accounts of the ministry of Paul in the book of Acts, we find noted such noble people where we read. . .
“(10) The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. (11) Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” (Acts 17:10-11 ESV)
Through their daily examination of the Scriptures the Bereans were able to confirm what Paul and Silas were preaching was true! Through our own daily reading of the Scriptures we will continue coming to an understanding of the truth to safeguard being led away from it and knowing how to live each day God provides as we encouragingly look to the future with steadfast hope in Him!
“Read it again!” Let that remain our eager desire! May we never tire of being drawn into the story of God and life and His desire for us to be a part of His glorious story as we surrender more fully to His Sovereign Will!
Have a great day WITH GOD’S WORD BEING OUR DAILY READ!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
