As a former runner and swimmer, discipline is one of the aspects which has remained in me after I stopped competing competitively. Now as a writer, I have a daily routine which involves reading and writing every night after I come home from work. However, with family coming into town for Thanksgiving, this spiritual discipline was put on hold to interact with my children. I didn’t notice anything unusual the first day, but in the days that followed haunting images of my sinful past slowly came back to me. This is just one example when of what can happen if you go a few days without studying the Bible or in prayer.
For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the [g]breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart, Hebrews 4:12.
The one aspect of studying the Bible which is often taken for granted is the life breathed into your soul. The author of Hebrews refers to the words of the Bible as living and active. Whether this is hope during a rough day at work or encouragement from a life lesson within this book, studying the Bible has transformed my life. While I’m still imperfect in many ways, Romans 3:23, the Bible is a spiritual lamp to guide your feet as you walk through life on earth, Psalm 119:105. This verse has been turned into several songs over the years.
Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action), 17 So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
Meanwhile, in a letter to a first century pastor, the apostle Paul highlights the practical uses of the Bible. First, every word written in this special book was inspired by God with a call to write down these divine words. Second, biblical words serve as a benchmark for direction, instruction and wisdom. Certain portions of the Bible are devoted to how to handle various scenarios and situations that you may encounter. Third, commands, decrees and principles are the standard for living a holy life. Finally, the best way to transform your life is to meditate and memorize the words of the Bible, Joshua 1:8, so that your mind conforms to God’s will for your life.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 