It Changed My Life

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Scripture.

When I was young, Bible drills were a part of our life at church. I used to love them – not necessarily because I memorized lots of Scripture. I used to love the competition that came with it. Putting the Bible between my hands with no fingers hanging over the side, they would say a part of a verse or the reference. Once they said go, I had 30 seconds to find the verse I was looking for and step forward.

I got pretty good at it and have a couple of ribbons to show for it. Much as I loved Bible drills, though, it wasn’t the Bible drills that changed my life.

The Bible changed my life.

I have sat under many fabulous teachers of the Word who have great speaking skills, inspirational stories, and fun interaction. They have taught me much, but it wasn’t them that changed my life either.

The Bible changed my life.

I love to read. There are so many books out there by great authors. Reading books on leadership, organizational management, history, personalities, I have learned so much about myself and others. They have made me better as an individual, but they still haven’t changed my life.

The Bible changed my life.

I have worked through Bible studies written by godly men and women, listened to them through their DVD, and had great discussions. But in the end it was not the book, DVD, or discussions that changed my life.

The Bible changed my life.

While all of these things are good things, there is only one BEST thing, only one thing that truly changes the lives and eternities of people. As you enter into your studies in this new year, lead studies, and choose books to read, remember not to forget you time in Word. Read Scripture in your own space at home. Open your Bible with your friends and study groups and read it together. Sit in church not merely listening to what someone has to say, even the most knowledgeable and godly, but opening your copy of Scripture and seeing for yourself what the Lord has for you. Memorize words of Scripture so that God can bring them back to your mind in moments when you need them.

The Bible is the one most powerful manuscript in the history of the world, available to us in multiple formats and translations.

Praying we use it to its full capacity and allow it to change us. In doing so, we become “complete, equipped for every good work.”

What are you reading in Scripture right now and what is God teaching you through it?

 

 

Joining in on the #MondayminutewithGod over at Planting Roots this week! Click on the graphic to join us!