All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 2 Timothy 3:16 NRSV
Think of all the books we’ve read so far. We’ve read school books on the three “Rs”—reading, 'riting and 'rithmetic, and other subjects. For pleasure, we read magazines, newspapers, novels, poems, and essays. We read things that are pure creations of someone’s imagination (fiction) and biographies and history (non-fiction). Of all that we read, it began as the inspiration by someone but not from God.
God spoke his divine Word to different women and men throughout history to be recorded for our benefit. In the reading of the lives of the saints, we learn from their triumphs and follies. Sometimes what we are reading may convict us and lead us to repentance. In the biography of Jesus Christ -- the Gospels -- we have the perfect example of righteousness. The story doesn’t cover just the happy, joyful events, but Christ when he was hungry, stressed, and angry. The honest, wholly human, and divine Jesus.
The scripture continues to live and breathe in us through the Holy Spirit. Through prayer and meditation, God’s Word inspires us as it becomes unveiled to us. Unlike a novel read quickly, a chapter at a time, reading scripture is more like a casual meal taking one small bite, savoring each verse, and allowing our spiritual senses to experience its meaning entirely.
God, we give thanks for your divine Word. Please help us to slow in our reading of the scriptures and savor their meaning, and help us to allow time for the Holy Spirit to work and open our hearts to obedience. Lead us, Lord, in the ways of your righteousness. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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