Christian Living

Taking a Second Look

by paul hoffmaster
06/08/26
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When one opens the Scriptures and peruses its content, it is not by logical analysis, but by Faithful acceptance.  God’s Biblical library is a maze of books and letters that displays both experiential and explanatory Faith.  Depending on which section of the Library one chooses to check out a book or letter, it is imperative to have a tutorial guide.  We may feel that a pastor or religious leader is sufficient in helping us through the aisles of inspired literature. Still, it is the Holy Spirit that has firsthand knowledge of the inspired writings and is willing to guide us through the Words’ of life.  According to the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit reveals the “deep things of God….that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (I Corinthians 2: 10, 12)  When we go to God’s library, the Holy Spirit stands ready to guide us to the section where we will find the Book or Letter that best elevates our need.  Without the Spirit’s guidance, our reading comprehension is severely limited. 

Many Christians strive to read through the Bible in a year.  There is usually a written guide to help facilitate their goal.  God is not so interested in whether you read through the Bible as He is in what you have learned from your journey.  You might have visited the address of a verse, but unless you take up residence, it is called “drive-by” viewing.  It is not how many verses you have read, but rather what you have learned from those verses.  Quantity is not always the best path to spiritual growth.  

In checking out a library book or letter, we need to realize there is an expectation from the Author to the reader, and that is to study God’s Word. (II Timothy 2:15)  Our reading of the Bible is not to be just a casual wandering in the library, but a direction to a specific book or letter that the Spirit of God wants us to read.  Too many Christians treat the Bible as voluntary reading instead of a reading requirement.  The Bible is the owner’s manual to the Christian. It is there to assist one in learning about the Kingdom of God.  There is a troubleshooting section where, if one is experiencing life’s problems, it will offer suggestions to help deal with the situation.  The manual backs the validity of the Bible with a lifetime warranty.  The manual also contains many references to those who have experienced life’s benefits.

To approach the Bible analytically will dilute the Scriptures to a conglomeration of words and phrases.  To take Faith out of the equation is like reading another book.  To many people, the Bible’s teachings are foolishness (inability to act following reason, due to lack of faith), but to others, it is God’s power revealed.  Jesus’ crucifixion was a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks (I Corinthians 1:23).

When we approach the Word, let it be with anticipation that God will meet us there.  As we open our Bible, let us see Him living through the Scriptures.