As the deer pants…

The desire for God’s word is likened to a deer that pants for water (Psalm 42:1). The psalmist uses the word ‘pants’, indicating that this deer might have been running away from a predator, or have been in a dry desert and is wanting water to quench its thirst. This is the attitude that we must have a longing desire to spend time with God. 

We may have a disciplined life by setting a particular time to spend with God, we would study the Bible either to gain knowledge or to present ourselves before the congregation as a ‘knowledgeable’ person. Are all these done by the ‘thirst’ for God or by ‘routine’? 

Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:14, “For the love of God compels me”. Paul had passion in his soul. Do we?

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Right Motive…continued

Over 2000 times in the Old Testament alone, the Bible asserts that God spoke what is written within its pages. The phrase “the Word of God” occurs over 40 times in the New Testament.  It shows the authenticity of the Bible, thus our approach to God’s Word must be changed. It is the book that transforms people and we must read it with a right motive. 

Studying the Scripture for right motives 

3) To grow in grace. 2Peter 3:18

God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. James 4:6. A proud person doesn’t read the Bible with a right motive. Studying the scripture makes us humble and gives us grace in time of need. Humility and grace are interlinked and cannot be separated. Our Lord was full of grace and truth (John 1:14) because He was humble. 

4) To Find Wisdom. Psalm 119:97-99

Application of knowledge is wisdom. The wisdom of God that is received through His word takes us to a higher spiritual position. It makes us wiser than our enemies, teachers and aged which in turn make us humble.   

 

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Why should I read the Bible?….(Continued)

The Bible is not a collection of stories, fables, or human ideas about God. God reveals His person and plans through His word. The Bible is completely trustworthy because God was in control of its writing. It is authoritative for our faith and lives. 

 Studying the scripture for right motives

 1) To build a deeper relationship with God. 2 Peter 1:5-8

    God doesn’t want our relationship with Him to be stagnant and lukewarm. Our relationship with God can grow only through quality time with His word. God‘s word enables us to know our Master and walk in His ways.

2) To equip us for every good work. 2Timothy 3:16-17

    The short span of time spent in this world is very important for a child of God. God‘s word enables to reflect God’s image through our actions and deeds. Our life must be a mobile Bible others would read and enjoy.

    “Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will ever read” David Barton                                                                                  … Contd

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Why should I read the Bible?

We read the Bible everyday if it is convenient for us. Why should I read the Bible?  Can I lead my Christian life without reading and studying the Bible? What is our attitude towards His word? God has a purpose for giving His word, but most of us read and study it for wrong motives.

 

Studying the scripture for wrong motives

1) To get knowledge/information

2) To ease our conscience. (Superstitions). Thinking that something might happen to me if I don’t read the Bible.

3) To argue with others. To prove that my doctrines are superior to others.

4) To become famous/get honour

5) To make money or do business

6) To teach others or write articles.

                                                          ….Contd

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